Inside My Heaven

My New Favorite- Christmas 2011

2011-12-24T09:50:00.000-08:00

Introducing my NEW favorite Christmas item on the menu:

The one above is to take to my mom & dad's tomorrow, on Christmas Day. The one below is to take to the in-law's this afternoon/evening for dinner.

I love trying new recipes, and this one is certainly an eye-catcher! It was a LOT of fun to make, and it is DE-LISH, too! Want the recipe? I guess I can share it:

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Pine-cone-shaped Cheese ball

(not creative, I know!!!)

1 pkg Cream Cheese (I used Red. fat Neufschel Cheese--however it's spelled)

1/2 Cup Mayo (NOT Miracle Whip, folks!!)

5 bacon strips, cooked & crumbled

1 Tbsp chopped green onion (i actually doubled it)

1/2 tsp dill weed

1/8 tsp pepper

1 1/4 cup almonds (recipe calls for them toasted, but I didn't do it)

Assorted crackers or raw veggies

Fresh Rosemary sprigs for decoration afterwards.

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Mix all ingredients (minus almonds) in large bowl. Let chill for 1-2 hours to allow mixture to become firm. Place mixture on platter/decorative plate and shape into a cone/pear shape. Place almonds around it in rows, starting with the bottom and working your way up. Place several short stems of rosemary at the top for decoration.

Ta-dah!

What would I change, if I had to do it all over again?

1- I think instead of poking the almonds "outward" I'll lay them down a bit more. It shows too much of the filling. It looks like too spiky! But still cute!!!!

2- I almost went w/o the Rosemary addition...so expensive at the store! So, either grow your own for next year (ya right!), go to the farmer's marker (ya right!), or just grin & bear it. It adds a GREAT aroma to the dish!

PROJECT: FAIL

2011-12-06T14:11:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I got in the mood to make individual Christmas gifts for family members.

I started looking for ideas ALL around me.

Steven & I recently bought new bed sheets, and they came in a very plain drawstring baggy thinggy. So I thought, "HEY! This would be sooo much cuter if ...., and if ...., and if ....." AND, these could be so useful if ....., and if ....., and if ......"

So, I commenced my project.

Operation:

CHRISTMAS CRAFT 2011

I was so excited at the idea of my new project. I thought of all the wonderful things I could use for my baggy: makeup bag, travel bag, pencil bag, catch-all bag....the possibilities were endless, really! For girls, anyway. I didn't quite know what the boys would do with them, but for Steven, he collects chess sets....so he could use a baggy to put his tiny "men" in. So I thought, "whatever. They will use them for whatever, but I can't just make something for the girls. It has to be for EVERYONE."

So, I started the crafty journey, knowing full & well that's it been 2 years since I've even taken the dust cover off my sewing machine. Ahem. No, I haven't lost my "touch", but I knew I'd be a bit rusty, that's all.

Day 1:

I went to JoAnn's fabrics and purchased the cutest fabric I could find. Seriously, ya'll...there are so many cute ideas. I couldn't settle for one. I came home with 15 types of fabric. Take a look...there is something for everyone...men, women, kids...c'mon...you KNOW you love the colors/patterns. And if you don't, whatevuh.....it's my project. I get to decide what to give you. Be lucky it's not a lump of coal for your bad attitude. So there.

Day 2:

I ironed my fabric. I figured it'd been a while, but I had my pattern and process in my head. I hooked up the sewing machine and cut up some of the bed sheets that I'd replaced due to a hole in it. MAN...I love those sheets. So soft. So wonderful. Anyway, I started cutting. And then I sewed. At first, the bag was a bit lopsided, but I could handle that. I was just sewing for size, really, and to see if my "idea" in my head for a pattern would work. It really didn't turn out all THAT bad, but it did need some alterations.

So, all was going dandy. UNTIL I got to the lettering on the front. Ya see...I wanted to do everyone's initial on the front. It would be so cute in a different, contrasting color. And to make a cute lil drawsting at the top in the same contrasting fabric.

I could see it in my head. My vision was clear.

I started sewing. I messed up 4 times and had to take everything out. It was horrible. In the end, it was crooked, it had crinkles, it had bumps, and it was just plain ugly. I did start with the worst letter possible...S. So many curves. So much movement. Steven said, "well, just do block letters"...but they aren't as cute.

So I gave up. Steven has a ratty ol personalized bag made of old bedsheets. The S is horrible, and I didn't even do the contrasting color yet. I just wanted to make a sample. The sample is horrible, but here it is in all it's glory.

Yes, I gave up. I have purchased all this cute fabric, and I have no idea what to do with all of it. One day, I'll sew again. One day I'll be creative again. Just not with letters that are curvy that move around on me. I'm not THAT good yet, folks.

So all you family members out there...look at that sample above. You have two choices: either BALL your eyes out b/c you're not gonna get a cute lil catch-all bag for whatever your heart desires, craftily make by yours truly. Or two, you can cry tears of joy b/c you wouldn't know what to do with it anyway, and it probably would've never been used anyway.

Whatever you decide to do, fine. Just know that I love you enough and I'm sane enough to quit when it's the right thing to do.

30 Days of Truth: Day 16

2011-09-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 16: Someone or Something you could definitely live without.

STRESS.

...AND people who complain ALL. THE. TIME. (get over it)

...AND liver (the food...the smell)

...AND bills (never-ending)

...AND cleaning floors (ewwwww.....gross)

...AND one of my co-workers who I'm pretty sure doesn't even LIKE kids. Pretty sure she doesn't need to be a teacher.

30 Days of Truth: Day 15

2011-09-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 15: Something or Someone you can't live without, because you've tried living without it.

Two answers come to mind quickly: Steven & caffeine.

STEVEN tried getting rid of me once. I didn't give up, and I held on and kept praying. I just didn't *want* to live without him. What can I say...I guess I'm in ♥ love ♥

CAFFEINE I've gotten rid of once, and that was when I was in the MTC for 9 weeks. It was not by choice that I gave it up...it was b/c there was not any to consume. I knew that was the case, and when I got my mission call to serve in Chile, I tried giving up cold turkey. Every time I'd try I wouldn't last 3 days until I had a migraine SO. BAD. that I couldn't take it any long...just once sip of Dew & it was G.O.N.E. I was seriously addicted!!! Then, when I got to Chile I drank Coca Cola every now and then...definitely not daily, but enough to quench my thirst. What can I say...I just enjoy an ice cold beverage once in a while. It's not that I HAVE TO have the caffeine. I like Sunquist. I like Sprite on occasion...but that's about it for the non-caffeine beverages. Of the ones w/ caffeine, I really like a variety...Dr. Pepper (especially at Sonic), Mountain Dew (Taco Bell), Coke (at McDonald's), Pepsi, Diet Coke (at Sonic), Cherry Coke (another Sonic favorite...just b/c they put real cherry juice in it!!!), etc. I think I probably AM addicted, but more than that...I really ENJOY the taste. It makes my day when things just haven't gone so good. Ahhhhh....so refreshing!!!!

30 Days of Truth: Day 14

2011-09-02T19:39:00.001-07:00

Day 14: A hero who has let me down (write a letter)

Dear hero-

You don't even exist. I don't even *have* a hero, really. Never really has. And even if you DID exist, I guess you didn't really let me down since I can't even remember you. Thanks for nothing. Thanks for everything. And thanks for giving me something dumb to blog about.

Love,

(hey- at least I didn't SKIP IT like some have....)

I'm Famous!!!!!

2011-08-29T15:04:00.000-07:00

Check out this video from the latest edition of RURAL MISSOURI.

A few weeks ago, we went to our FAVORITE BBQ place in the WORLD (and yes...I've lived in TN, MO, and tried some good TX BBQ...but this is hands. down. the. BEST. EVER). Anyway, we went b/c some of Steven's family was in town. Lo and behold....there was a camera man there, and he wanted to get us on tape.

And now...we're famous!!! So...if you're ever in Harrisburg, MO (or...if you come visit me.....), you can try it out for yourself!!!

30 Days of Truth: Day 13

2011-08-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 13: A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough days. (write a letter)

Dear members of Little Big Town,

You may not know it, but you have brought me to tears many times with "Bring it on Home to Me." It was my wedding song. I've cried myself to sleep many nights to your lyrics.

"Take your worries and just drop them at the door. Baby...leave it all behind. When your long day is over, and you can barely drag your feet. The weight of the world is on your shoulders....I know what you need. Bring it on home to me."

This song was on repeat so many days.....& it got me through some tough times before I was married. Your song gave me hope, and it gave me something to look forward to--being able to love someone like you've never loved...trust them in ways you've never trusted...and genuinely want to be a better person for them.

Thanks for uplifting me when I need it the most,

Me.

ps- Steven, I know you'll read this soon. I love you, and always will. I'm so glad we chose this song as OUR song. And when you need me, I'll always be here for you.

♥"You got someone here who wants to make it all right. Someone who loves you more than life....right here." ♥

30 Days of Truth: Day 12

2011-08-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 11: Something you never get compliments on

Well...I can't say "never", but they are few & far between: going the "extra mile" at work. I guess it's one of things that parents also wish us teachers would do more....send home NICE compliments about our kids, instead of only issues with your child. I mean, I don't do extra things so that someone would give me a prize. Most of the time, I do it just for me...so I can feel organized, so I can be sane. So I am not stressed. So I can have fun with my students on occasion.

Here's what I am talking about:

- getting to work 1 hour early (instead of 15 min)

- staying later at work (instead of 15 min)

- showing up for after school bus duty (some show up...some "forget"...some just don't think they have to do anything b/c of budget cuts....whatever...we all have to do our part)

- offering tutoring (let's face it...if a kid needs help, I am willing to stay after ANYTIME when I can...and the only reason I wouldn't is if I had a dr. appointment, if I was sick, or something like that)

- not taking ALL of my personal days (most of the time I only take 1...maybe!!!) I hate missing work...it's like triple duty when you get back. Sub didn't do THIS. Students behaved like THAT. Homework wasn't done CORRECTLY. He said...She said. Whatever...you might as well let the kids "hang out" all hour in your room...b/c you can for-GET anything actually getting accomplished when a teacher is absent...kids are WILD!

- wearing teacher clothing- sounds funny, but there are teachers these days wearing Old Navy flip-flops, shorts, low-cut halters, high heels w/ SHORT SHORT skirts, LOTS of make-up, too much perfume....you think it couldn't be worn, & I've probably SEEN it worn. Like this one math teacher (not at my school...but a few years ago, I taught w/ her) she had more than 20 piercings....nose rings (yes...plural), rings all up and down her ear lobes, both brows, lip, tongue, belly button (and yes...you could see it thru the shirt on occasion), and cheeks. G-R-O-S-S. Definitely not a "good" role model in my opinion for 13-14 year olds. But that is my opinion.

Anyway...these are just a few that pop into my head. When I look at others who take "mental" or "emotional" sick days, I wish I could do that. I look at others with crazy clothes/styles and think...that's professional? I come to school, leave from school, go in, go out, no real complaints from parents about my performance (or lack of), not many office referrals written, I don't ask too much, I don't complain often....I mean, I wish someone would just notice once in a while.

Is that too much to ask?

a thank you?

a "well done"?

a pat on the back?

...if only.

30 Days of Truth: Day 11

2011-08-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

Day 11: Some thing people compliment you the most on

My "cute-ness" when I'm actually trying to look cute!

Does that even make sense? Well...to ME it does...so THERE!

Ya see, most days I feel myself looking a bit "drab" or "frumpy" as my family likes to call it. And I admit....it takes me a while to get ready (about 45 minutes from the time I turn my alarm off to the time I am eating breakfast, and getting my bag ready to place in the car to head to school). However, if I really broke down the time, here it is:

- 5 min moping about the room, getting used to the lights

- 5 min. starting in the mirror plucking eyebrows or other wild hairs I notice, observing any newly developed psoriasis spots, popping zits/blackheads, starting at my toenails that need to be repainted, & going to the fridge to get me some water (okay...some mornings like today actually take 10 min here...ugh!)

- 5 min to sit on the toilet and think about my night and take a gander down at my legs (TMI????....NOPE!!!!) and wonder when the next opportunity I'll get to shave, now that school has started.

- The next 10 in actually in the shower wishing I hadn't done the afore-mentioned items, and actually gotten something accomplished, and telling myself my legs would already been shaved if I had jumped right in the shower.

-5 min listening to morning news on radio and doing make-up. Yep...that's right. A touch of base, light blush brushing, & some mascara...that's it, BABY!

- 5 min staring in the mirror again...I really don't do much more than pluck a few more hairs or wonder why in the world I bought I treadmill when I've only used it a few times since purchasing it in March, and wondering why I can't motivate myself to do something about my sagginess that seems to be happening lately (and I don't even have kids yet!!!!!)

- 3 min blowdrying my hair

- 10 min to do hairstyle: straighten in layers, put some "umph" to pump it up a bit, hairspray, and done!

- 5 min to get my clothes on

AND....if you add it up, it adds up to more than 45 min...ugh! But somehow it all adds up....a minute here, a minute there...and viola! Misson. Accomplished.

Anyway...back to the post at hand...."cute-ness". Ya see...there are some days where I put on a bit more makeup....eyeliner, eyeshadow, powder, QUALITY mascara, lipgloss/stick, etc. Those days I just wake up feeling "cute", I dunno. Anyway, so I pick out a cute outfit (stylish skirt if the legs are shaved, sandals, belt, etc) and put on some cute accessories to match (usually from my small collection of things I've bought in other countries), put on a dash of perfume...and I guess I just feel different those days. I'm usually nicer (so they say), the students compliment me, the staff at school usually notices, Steven says something extra nice when I get home. So I guess something must be working.

Am I really THAT frumpy on those "oh-so-ordinary" days? Or is it that you can actually TELL when I spend more time on doodling myself up, instead of plucking, pulling, tweezing, picking, pulling, tugging, and wishful thinking?

I dunno. You be the judge (but not too harshly.....)

Ahhhhh....CRAZY week!!!

2011-08-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

So...what happened to the 30 days of Truth, you wanna know?

Well....here's the truth & nuttin' but the truth:

1 - Steven & I finally celebrated our 4th Wedding Anniversary. As usual, we went up to Nauvoo and had a lovely time! We always stay in Keokuk, IA (about 20 min away) and the drive along the river, on the way to Nauvoo is simply GORGEOUS....tons of lily pads, flowers, trees, river....nice! So we spent 3 days there, and it was so needed!

2- While in Keokuk.....We always take a stroll downtown, and we went to our favorite place to eat dinner, Angelini's Pizza and found that they've taken AWAY the pizza buffet (so cute & small, yet soooo tasty), and now they have a pasta bar. Go here to check out their FB page & pics!!! (sorry...it's Keokuk...what did you think...they had their own webpage????....NOPE!!!)

3- We decided to try out the local movie theater (VERY small, too) and saw Planet of the Apes. It was pretty good. Not so "realistic"...and you know how I am with those kinds of movies....blah!!! But still....it was pretty good. *until the monkey TALKED*..... - VERY strange - Anyway, the best part of the movie-going-experience:

$6 entrance = FREE beverage (w/ $1 refills), FREE small popcorn WITH butter, not-so-crowded movie theater, NICE smelling restrooms (although paint-chipped-to-pieces) with cute benches and floral arrangements, &....wait for it.....a peppermint upon exiting and a sweet "Thank you...please come again" before walking out the door.

LOVED. IT.

4- Upon coming home, we soon noticed that our home computer was not booting up. Much to my dismay, we ended up trying to re-install EVERYTHING & save what was left. DIDN'T happen, folks. We tried forever to get it fixed. I even stayed up 'til midnight staring at "just a few more seconds" & it did it again.....crashed!!!! So, Tuesday I spend my precious "planning time" at school shopping. Researching, price comparing, researching, reviewing, researching....you know the drill. So, off we went....to look at 4 computers when I got off work. Sam's Club & Best Buy...that's where we ended up. After much contemplating, we ended up with a pretty nice dang computer, I have to say. I'm sad to spend that kinda money so unexpectedly...but what can you do? I had to do it!

5- Classes started. That's right...only 2 left to finish my Master's. They started Monday, and by Wed. evening my first paper was due. Don't forget....my computer wasn't working MONDAY or TUESDAY.....argh!!!! Anyway, so yesterday you know what I was doing....type, type, typing away and submitting it. I mean, I have YET to start the Bachelor Pad (and that is VERY sad for me....LOVE those crazy dramatic shows with catfights!!!), haven't seen Talent & this week was the first REAL week (ugh!), & missed the finale of Expedition Impossible. My tv life is OFFICIALLY over with. I guess it had to come some time....but I'm still upset about it!

So there you have it, folks. That's what I've been doing for the past week. So...leave me alone, I've been more-than-busy!!!! I like technology when it works. I hate it when it doesn't.

And there you have it...the REST of the story.

30 Days of Truth: Day 10

2011-08-17T17:28:00.000-07:00

Day 10: Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn't know

Wow. Now this one is very personal. And truth be told...I honestly believe that EVERY person we come into contact with, is for a reason.

Except for the person that sits down in the stall next to us in the bathroom when you have an upset stomach. Especially when you two are the ONLY ONES in there.

Or, the person who sits next to in a huge movie theater, when there are over 100 other seats they could choose. REALLY?

Or, the person who sneezes all over you, getting you sick.

Or, the crazy person who cut you off this morning and almost caused a car accident.

Or, the angry woman at school who yells the F word a bizillion times, b/c the printer isn't working right. Slams the door. Then leaves screaming more F words. Ya, she was cool.

Okay, I guess EVERY person having a reason for being in my life is a bit over-exaggerated. But only a little bit.

There is one person, but I am not going to mention their name...for fear that they might read this. This person requires a lot of patience, and a lot of energy. I feel like it's all GIVE, GIVE, GIVE and nothing gets better. I feel like I spend a LOT of time worrying, thinking, and even crying over this person. But I can't say NO. I can't seem to get past them. And I KNOW there is no way to get rid of them, and even if there was...I wouldn't really want that.

I guess I just need a vacation from my problems....a vacation from this person. Kinda like Bob Wylie did on "What About Bob".

Is that even possible?

I mean...Everyone deserves to have friends.

30 Days of Truth: Day 9

2011-08-16T14:00:00.001-07:00

Day 9: Someone you didn't want to let go, but just drifted.

I almost changed this to something, but I just thought of someone.....my good ol college pal Jessica.

Jessica is from South Carolina. We both ventured out to college in the great potato capital of the USA...that's right IDAHO! Neither one of us knew anyone else at the school, but had family that we could drive to visit on occasion (but no, we never owned a car out there...so getting to see them was an issue on several occasions). Jessica had family that lived about 30 min. away in Idaho. I had an Aunt & Uncle in Utah about 3.5 hours away.

Jess & I did EVERYTHING together our first year of college. We went to the $1 theater together. We skipped church together. We broke curfew together. We both hid a boy under our beds when roomies unexpectedly came home early (yes...boys were NOT ALLOWED in the bedrooms....strict honor code policy). We both felt like rebels when we wore mens boxers around the courtyard of our dorms on Sundays (first of all, shorts were not allowed b/c of rules. second of all, it was a Sunday...so it pissed people like Brynn...remember her??....off a LOT...he he). We walked to Wal-Mart and carried back laundry detergent and 12 packs of Dr. Peppers in our two laundry baskets UPHILL to the dorms (yes...it was VERY heavy).

We had a LOT of fun together. We did. So what happened? I dunno. We kinda drifted apart I guess, not really meaning to. We both went home after 2 years, graduating with our Associates Degree. She went back out when they changed the college to a 4-year University. By then, my younger sisters were attending school there, too, and they became besties with her. I served a mission in Chile in the meantime. When I came back, she had graduated and I was just starting to pick back up my studies.

We had grown apart somewhat I guess you could say--taken different paths in life. Nowadays she talks to my sisters more than she does me. That used to make me angry, out of jealousy...she was my friend first....right??!! But now, I hear about her from time to time. And I guess that is better than nothing. I emailed her just the other day to ask what Brynn's last name was....and we've chatted back and forth since. It's been nice. Will it continue? Hopefully. She's a sweet southern belle, and it's been nice finding out what she's been up to all this time.

30 Days of Truth: Day 8

2011-08-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 8: Someone who made my life hell, or treated me like dirt

Weeeelllll...I had PLENTY of people who treated me not-so-nicely while I was in Chile. But, none of them are really "sticking out" right at the moment. But, one girl from college rings a bell LOUD. AND. CLEAR. right now. Her name was Brynn.

I have no idea what her last name was. All I know is that she ALWAYS got up in my business, and loved calling me out on whatever she could. Here are a few scenarios I remember specifically:

1- Sunday afternoon. My friends & I playing cards in the living room floor. TuPac turned up kinda loud on the stereo. We were chillin REAL good. She walks in (dressed in an ugly dress from church choir). Turns off stereo. Gives me a death stare. Asks me what's up. I got up turned back on the CD. Sat down in the floor and acted like she wasn't even there. That PISSED her off. She stormed out, slamming the door. I laughed.

2- Practically any day of the week. Pick one, any one! She's eavesdrop on my conversations. ALL of them. On occasion, I'd use a "not-so-nice" word. After hanging up the phone, she'd wanna know WHY I spoke like that around her. I was in my ROOM. Bedroom door was shut & locked. Living room door was shut & locked. Stop eavesdropping!!!!!

3- One night at a roommate meeting. Yes...we met weekly (only lasted for a month or so...lol) to discuss our issues in a "calm" fashion. Weeks after a specific incident (mentioned in #2, above), she called me out on using a certain word that is used ALL. THE. TIME. in the south (her being from Utah, she was totally NAIVE). I asked her to please not bring up past issues. She insisted that I needed to talk quieter. YA...like that can even HAPPEN when your mama gave you a good set of lungs (and...sometimes I'd even talk louder just to piss her off, oops!!!). Anyway, she started pointing fingers. Before I knew it, my fist was clenched and I was moving at a high speed toward her chair. Didn't hit her, but almost did. Roomies had to separate us into different rooms. She called her mommy to come pick her up. Unfortunately, she didn't move out. We were enemies the rest of the year.

So there....she was never nice to me! She didn't like me from the start.

Just cuz I was fun.

Just cuz I wasn't from Utah.

Just cuz I was different (and proud of it).

Just cuz I pushed her buttons (and enjoyed it).

Just cuz I didn't wear a dress ALL. DAY. ON. SUNDAYS. (& go to choir practice like a good girl would)

So...take THAT...Brynn.

30 Days of Truth: Day 7

2011-08-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 7: Someone who has made my life worth living for

Well....today you get three answers.

1- Gospel Answer: Heavenly Father

I want to make him proud--get a big bear hug and hear the words "well done"

2- Cheesy (but honest) Answer: my husband, Steven

Of course, right? But really...I wanna live with him forever. He knows me inside & out. To think that after 4 years together he can just instinctively "know" what I need...I am blessed! That doesn't mean that he can always read my mind, or that we never have arguments. We do, just like any couple does. But they really are few and far between. I am so glad he chose me...and I'm lucky enough to have found him!!!

3- Unexpected answer- my relatives I've never met

Ya know, I've never been much on doing my family history. I don't know if I'll ever feel the URGE to do it...but I do wonder what they're like. I knew 3 of my grandparents and they are each so unique, and I really wonder what it will be like to sit down with my grandfather I have never met in this life. So...I want to succeed here on Earth so I can get "up there" and chat with him and all the others from my past who contribute to who I am today (psoriasis and all!!!)

30 Days of Truth: Day 6

2011-08-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 6: Something I hope I never have to do

...bury my husband

Steven & I have talked about this issue before. Both of us hopes to die before the other one does. It's a toss up as to who it will be. Sometimes, I wish it could be like in the movie "The Notebook", where two people die holding hands, together. Wouldn't that be nice?

Ya, it would for me. I've only had to be away from him for several days at a time, and it is a bit lonely. We both admit that it is fun for the first day or two...getting to do what we want and all, without worrying that the other person is coming home/getting up soon. But, after the 2nd day, it gets lonely.

I can't imagine waiting to die...just so you can return to live with your spouse. My mom & I were just talking about this the other day over lunch. She thinks her mother just "gave up". She was ready to reunite with her husband who'd passed away a few years before. So she just quit eating. Sad. It's strange what loneliness will do to you.

30 Days of Truth: Day 5

2011-08-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 5: Something I hope to do in my life

Be a mother.

...and not just to any child. I want to go through the process of being pregnant & giving birth to a child that is half ME, and half STEVEN.

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see that after 4 years of marriage, I am still childless. I love my life, I love that I can travel the world, I love my job, and I love my husband. I love that we've been able to purchase a house. I love that I can spoil my nieces & nephews when I visit them. I love that my hubbs & I both have fairly decent jobs, so we can go out to eat, go to the movies and do what we want (to some extent, anyway).

Still...I am not a mother. My house is always clean, & I LOVE that. But, sometimes I want a child to come mess it up for a while. I LOVE that I can watch all the tv shows I want. But, sometimes I wish I didn't have time b/c we were too busy watching Dora the Explorer. I LOVE that I can stay up as long as I want during the summer (and weekends, mostly), just to sleep in the next morning. But, I would like to hear the patter of lil feet before daylight, and the begging for you to get up.

I think it will happen for me. But when...that is the question. With lots of family & friends seeming like "fertile Mertile", it is hard sometimes. Who knows what the future holds. I am trying to be patient. Some days it's easy, some days it's not.

30 Days of Truth: Day 4

2011-08-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 4: Something I need to forgive someone for

Well...this one is easy for me. LOOOONG story, and I know I said yesterday that I would not give you details...but I guess I kinda did. This one will be short. Why?--every time I think about what happened, or think of this individual I get angry. It brings back real feelings of hatred...and I honestly have never felt this is ANYONE the way I have with this person. And I know I need to forgive. I'm working on it.

It has to do with a guy (typical). He's from a certain country--Chile.

This guy promised me the moon. Okay, really, he didn't. But he promised a LOT. So much so, that I told my family at one point I was going to quit school (not finish my degree) and move to Chile to see if things were going to work out in the long run. I was seriously head-over-heels (so I thought....) for this guy. I had looked into buying tickets, quit working on my "plan" for graduation...the whole bit. I had even had the Lord CONFIRM to my heart that this is what I was supposed to do. I had even spoken to his FATHER on the phone and told him how much I adored his son.

Long story short...I got lots of emails shortly thereafter. LOTS of people saying they'd seen him out with another girl, and they were getting serious. Ya...they are now married with kids. He was lying the entire time. He lead me to believe that I was special and that it was in my best interest to drop EVERYTHING and leave my home, my family, my schooling, my COUNTRY for H-I-M...yet he was doing whatever the heck he wanted with whoever the heck he wanted.

NOT. RIGHT.

Am I still upset? Yep. Am I still bitter? Yep. He's written me several times since then telling me he needs my forgiveness so he can move on with his life. I read them all, and would sit and cry. I tried ignoring them, but couldn't. Then, I started writing back for him to leave me alone. I've told him countless times that God knows what he did, and that he'd pay for it. :) Nice of me, huh? Real southern belle of me, huh? Well...my hate has somewhat lessened over the years. Do we "talk"? No. Are we friends? I'd say no....he'd probably say yes. But, like I said yesterday....things happen for a reason. It would've never worked out. I'm glad I found out what kind of a guy he REALLY is before I ever did anything drastic (like quitting school or buying plane tickets). I'm actually glad it didn't work out.

30 Days of Truth: Day 3

2011-08-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 3: Something I need to forgive myself for

Well...I'm sure there are several things. But there is one thing that came to mind fairly quickly, and some of you know the story. Some of you actually KNOW the story, some of you THINK you know the story, and some of you just know what SEEMED to happen. You see....about 10 years ago, I made a promise to a certain guy that I didn't end up keeping. I SWORE I would hold up on my end of the bargain. I SWORE I would. I mean, I knew 200% sure, that I would not falter. And I did. Do I regret the decision? No. Do I still feel bad b/c of the way things turned out? Back then, yes. But now, no....God always has a way of making things happen that are in our best interest, although we not recognize it until later.

So...what in the WORLD am I talking about? I'm not going to go into much detail, but here are the basics. Most of you probably know that I served a mission for the LDS church from 2002-2003. Before leaving, I was dating a great guy. It just so happens that this guy and I had been dating off-and-on for quite some time. Actually, I didn't turn my mission papers in for several months b/c the last time we got together, I was pretty sure that we'd end up married instead.

Well...that didn't work out (we all know that...I'm not married to him now!!!). About 5 months after we'd starting dating (again....) I woke up with a distinct impression to turn my papers in. I hesitated a little, but knew that it was something I HAD to do. So, I got the doctor's signatures, dotted my I's and crossed my T's, and dreaded the thought of telling this man that I was going to be leaving him for 18 months, and only get to write him during that time mostly. Those are the rules...no phone calls (okay, I did for Christmas once!!!).

I remember the night before I left. And to this day...I have to idea why...but we both stood outside in tears. We each promised each other not to write "dear John's" (which are letters of heartbreak)...no matter WHAT! We made the promise several times, and it was clear that neither of us would EVER break it off in a letter. Face to face was how it needed to be done, and we were 200% positive we were going to get married when I returned in Washington DC.

Things were going great...until one particular night I woke up SCREAMING and BALLING my eyes out. I had a terrible nightmare, and all I can say is that it was the most real thing I'd ever experienced. And after a lot of prayer, I knew I needed to write to this guy and tell him to not wait for my return. I had to WRITE him, break my bizillion of promises, and tell him that we could no longer be "boyfriend-girlfriend". OH. MY. GOSH.

Lemme tell ya...that letter was the HARDEST thing I had ever done, I had to rewrite it several times, and wipe off so many tears that were shed while writing it. But I did it. It was like God was telling me it wasn't right. I still can't believe I had the guts to lick the envelope and put it in the mail. I couldn't believe I would do something so "heartless", something I SWORE I'd never do.

Do I regret doing it? NO. Things have actually turned out great for both of us. He's married now, and living a good life. As for me, I couldn't married a better man. I mean, if we'd have stayed together...my life would be different now. I would not have ended up teaching, I would never have gone back out west to go to school, never ended up in Missouri. You know...the chain of events just keeps on going.

So what is it that I need to forgive myself for, then? For making the promise in the 1st place. I never should've lead someone on like that. This guy put his life on hold for me, changed himself for the better for me. And in the end...he was torn apart by my actions. I also need to forgive myself for taking the easy way out when I got home. I saw his family at church for a LONG time after that. I said HI but that was it. I didn't really try to tell them WHY I did what I did. I just let it be. We're great friends now...but I feel like we could've been even better friends if they really understood WHY, and HOW I came to my decision.

Oh well...the past is the past. It makes us who we are. We learn from our mistakes, and keep putting one foot in front of the other.

30 Days of Truth: Day 2

2011-08-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day 2: Something I love about myself.

I LOVE that I am a penny-pencher!!!

I don't know how I do it (okay, really I do.....), but I find the BEST of the BEST deals!!! From free samples, to free food, to free merchandise....I find things most people can only DREAM about finding. And thanks to my sister, Marlena...I now have another resource and I'm even better than ever these days!!!!

Some of my recent purchases that I'm proud of:

- FREE colgate toothpaste (5)

-FREE oral B toothbrushes (2)

-FREE lotion (2)--got that this week, and even made $1 on each one!!!

- 25 cent General Mills cereal (Family Size, 10)

- FREE Ivory soap (bar & liquid, 4)

Past purchases I'm proud of (that I can remember):

- 50 cent linen skirts

- $1 Steve Madden sandals

- FREE copy paper

- FREE photobooks

I mean...I am really getting lots of free stuff lately, and I'm really proud of that! I've gotten so many lately that I've donated to others (my mom & dad, my in-laws), and I've even started a collection of "give-aways" when someone needs them. If it's free...even if I don't have use for it...someone else can, and I am feeling the need to be charitable these days.

Wanna know how you can save $$? Here's a few things I can share with you:

- Newspaper coupons: clip them ALL, even if you think you won't use it. You never know when it goes on sale!! My sister even has a Spanish newspaper she can get for FREE in Arizona, so they get 4-5 papers and she gets TONS of great items for cheap that way!!!

- Find out which grocery store doubles coupons. All those 25-50 cent off coupons could easily be 50 cents or $1 off!!! And when things go on sale for 10/$10....take out those 50 cent coupons and rake in the savings!!!!! ($1 - 50 cent off, at a place that doubles it = FREE!!)

- have a coupon buddy, even if it's a website or two. My sister finds good deals, and we share info. There are a few internet sites I like, too: http://www.pennypinchinmom.com/ & http://www.couponmom.com/. Both are GREAT for different reasons. If you want freebies (movie rentals, samples in the mail, books, or deal-match-ups near you...she is from Kansas City, though) Penny Pinchin Mom is for you!!! However, if you want a website who lists by grocery store/State...and shows you what coupons to put with it....Coupon Mom is for you.

There you go...WHEW!!! Saving money makes me HAPPY!!!!!!

30 Days of Truth: Day 1

2011-08-08T13:39:00.001-07:00

DAY 1: Something I hate about myself

I HATE that I have psoriasis.

I have my father and his side of the family tree to thank for that. Growing up, my Uncle David had it pretty bad. It covered his elbows...this pink skin with white scales on the outside. I had no idea it ran in the family, and until about 8 months ago, I was in the clear. My sister has it pretty bad. What makes it worse is that she doesn't really take care of it like she should...so you can see it on her scalp, elbows, legs, arms....just about everywhere. Recently my dad told me he's had a few spots pop up but has been lucky enough that Eurcerin lotion is all it took to clear it up.

Around November of last year, I noticed my scalp was itchy. I use salon shampoo, so it was pretty odd that I would have such a thing. I didn't realize it bothered me so bad, until I was sitting in class one day, in front of my Jr. high schoolers, and I was itching my head. I wasn't really noticing what I was doing...we were in the middle of a reading activity. Then, in a fairly loud voice...a girl sitting close to me said, "Ewwww...you have blood on your finger"...and that was when it all began. I had been picking at several places on my scalp for quite some time, evidently. When I saw it, I knew what it was. And upon further investigation of my body, I found that I had several spots....on my legs, & upper arms. The dermatologist confirmed it...I had psoriasis, and there is NO cure for it.

So...what is it exactly? Well...I told you what it looks like. It's not life-threatening, but it looks horrible. It's embarrassing to look at, and embarrassing when I get my hair done (good thing my hair stylist understands it). It's not contagious....but is a genetic disorder. UV rays help to diminish the horrible look of it...my doc even recommended being in the sun when I can, and even visiting the tanning bed regularly when I can't (winter, etc).

Wanna know the WORST part? It is common to have it under your fingernails. Every time I've gone in (both to the derm. and my regular doc), they look closely at my fingernails (don't have much to look at...I bite them!!!). But about a month ago, I noticed these hole-like marks on one nail. There were a few, then they quickly spread. Then I noticed I bit at it more, and it was bothering me. Then, the white tip on the end started taking "dips".....and instead of it being an "outline" in a cresent-like shape, it is a thin outline with potholes that go back pretty far. It looks disgusting!!! So...I went in to see about it, and I got an injection...and YIKES, did it ever hurt!!! She said it would go away, but it would take 6-8 weeks to notice a difference b/c a new nail has to grow in. I HATE needles!!!!! Try having someone stick a needle in your finger about 1.5 inches!!!!! It is not pleasant, lemme tell ya. I said some words I shouldn't have said. Now my nail bed is a blackish-blue color. yuck!

So, I start school in one week....try teaching junior high kiddos (who tell you exactly what they are thinking...no holding back), with an ugly fingernail that looks like I've slammed it in a door, been gobbled up mostly by a wretched rodent, and for what's left...someone took ball point pens and poked them into my nail leaving marks all over it.

GRRRRRREAT start to the year.

(side note: my case of the ugly syndrome isn't NEAR as bad as any of the above pics. Except for the fingernail....thank goodness I only have one that's like that...but mine is pretty close to the pic above!! gross, I know.)

30 days of truth

2011-08-08T13:19:00.001-07:00

After seeing this on my friend Beverly's blog....I first thought she was a bit crazy. First of all, to commit yourself to blogging about all 30 topics is something huge. Then, when I looked at the list of things it asked you to talk about....well, let's just say I knew it would be a challenge for her. I love reading her posts and getting to know who she is...inside & out. I respect her a LOT, even more now that she has the courage to talk about these things in public. So...if she can do it...so can I!!! Here are the topics.....anyone care to join me (if you dare)?

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Day 01 → Something you hate about yourself.
Day 02 → Something you love about yourself.
Day 03 → Something you have to forgive yourself for.
Day 04 → Something you have to forgive someone for.
Day 05 → Something you hope to do in your life.
Day 06 → Something you hope you never have to do.
Day 07 → Someone who has made your life worth living for.
Day 08 → Someone who made your life hell, or treated you like dirt.
Day 09 → Someone you didn’t want to let go, but just drifted.
Day 10 → Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.
Day 11 → Something people seem to compliment you the most on.
Day 12 → Something you never get compliments on.
Day 13 → A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough days. (write a letter.)
Day 14 → A hero that has let you down. (letter)
Day 15 → Something or someone you couldn’t live without, because you’ve tried living without it.
Day 16 → Someone or something you definitely could live without.
Day 17 → A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.
Day 18 → Your views on gay marriage.
Day 19 → What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?
Day 20 → Your views on drugs and alcohol.
Day 21 → (scenario) Your best friend is in a car accident and you two got into a fight an hour before. What do you do?
Day 22 → Something you wish you hadn’t done in your life.
Day 23 → Something you wish you had done in your life.
Day 24 → Make a playlist to someone, and explain why you chose all the songs. (Just post the titles and artists and letter)
Day 25 → The reason you believe you’re still alive today.
Day 26 → Have you ever thought about giving up on life? If so, when and why?
Day 27 → What’s the best thing going for you right now?
Day 28 → What if you were pregnant or got someone pregnant, what would you do?
Day 29 → Something you hope to change about yourself. And why.
Day 30 → A letter to yourself, tell yourself EVERYTHING you love about yourself

My European Vacay - 2011

2011-07-21T22:38:00.000-07:00

By now, you're probably wondering what happened to me, since I gave you a "glimpse" of our vacay...and nothing else. Well...these last few weeks have been spent working long & hard on our annual PHOTO book. It takes FOREVER & then another few days to pick out the color scheme, the layout of the page, cropping the pics to fit "just right", and writing the blurb about everywhere we went (well, that was Steven's job, really).

PHEW!!! Am I glad that is done!!!

So, here is the grand masterpiece ~

dun - Dun - DuN - DUN

(in chronological order, for the most part):

Click here to view this photo book larger

Glimpse of Vacay 2011

2011-06-26T10:52:00.001-07:00

Now that everyone knows we've been on VACATION....here are a few pics so you can see that we actually survived 17 days in Germany, France, & Spain with a group of 34 travelers.

Yes, we survived it. After eating lots of gelatto, potatoes, and more french bread than you could ever IMAGINE...we're home now...sleeping in our OWN beds, and smelling freshly smelled laundry once again. Ahhhhh...isn't home NICE?!!

Oh...and thank you MISSOURI, for trashing the nasty cicadas while we were gone! :)

1. DACHAU- we went through the SAME ENTRANCE as many people that entered this concentration camp. Very humbing, VERY dark, and something I'll never forget. Ever.

2. Neuschwanstein Castle- the one that influenced Cinderella's castle. What a cute town at the bottom of this castle. We toured the inside, walked around it, and it was one of my favorite things we did while in Germany.

3. BMW plant- Munich, Germany. I would LOVE to tour this place, if I ever go back.

4. Various street vendors--so cute! I love getting great bargains, and it is one of my favorite things to do on vacation!!

5. Versailles- these are only PART of the majestic royal gardens that surround this magnificent palace. WOW! The tour was grand, but the gardens were never-ending and it was so much fun to eat lunch w/ Steven in the garden!!

6. Biggest Beer Barrel in the World- that's right. Well, this one was the one beside of it. Steven got a pic beside the LARGEST one...but we could actually fit both of us and this barrel in the pic, so I will show you this one. You can't even IMAGINE how big the biggest one actually is....

7. Notre Dame de Reims- this one is almost twice as big as the one in Paris!!! We were walking in downtown Reims...and this literally popped out of nowhere!!! Really an amazing thing to see!!

Just so you can see just how big the entrance is to this thing...here I am standing just outside the entrance:

8. Eiffel Tower- of course I went to the tippy-top of it! Steven made it half-way, and I took a small group of gutsy kids who wanted to visit the top. We were so lucky this day, because every other day we went...the top was closed for visitors. Too many people and I guess they were scared it would fall!!! ha!

This is a pic of me...only half-way up, though. Can you imagine the view from the TOP?!?!!

9. Notre Dame de Paris- go ahead...go back to the one in Reims and see if this isn't smaller! But still...it was cool to see this remarkable place and go inside!!

10. Pont du Gard- the best preserved aqueduct of the Romans. Steven climbed up the side...but it is now closed off to pedestrians to walk on the top of it. What an amazing view from here. It was nice and warm, but breezy that day. Many were kayaking and canoing down the river. Wish I could've...

11. Madrid, Spain- beside the famous statue of Don Quijote and his sidekick Sancho Panza. What a neat city to visit and be able to see such amazing history!!

You'll have to wait for the "rest of the story"...for now, I'll leave you with one of my favorite pics of the trip. Just a small glimpse that captures the amazing ambiance of Europe. Freshly painted apartments. Fresh flowers and plants of every balcony. Many bikes and pedestrians along every road.

Ahhhhhh....

as much as I miss it, and yearn for more of it....

I'm glad to be home.

Places, Places, PLACES

2011-06-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

Just a few of the things we will be seeing shortly.

See if you can guess them all (or at least the countries we'll be visiting):

Old School

2011-05-30T06:50:00.000-07:00

I CAN'T be the only one who watched

some Saturday Night Live & In Living Color

back in the OLD SCHOOL DAYS (early 90's), am I?

C'mon, you can admit it. I just did!

So, this morning I went and found some good ones from the past that still crack me up. I hope you enjoy laughing as much as I do:

FIRST UP...clips from In Living Color:

Jim Carey as Vanilla Ice

Wayans bro. as Hani-Man

Now.....some clips from the infamous Saturday Night Live:

Will Ferrell as the Devil singing w/ Garth Brooks

Spartan Cheerleaders...who could forget this dynamic duo?

Cherti Oteri & "SIMMADOWNNA"

Chris Farley & "Down by the River"

Movie Must See

2011-04-26T07:32:00.000-07:00

Why am I so amused & addicted to the Madea movies?

Because they make me laugh.

This one....THIS ONE....is funny!

Watch the trailer, and get your flops on, and get your gear ready to go see it. NOW.

Easter Sunday

2011-04-24T14:56:00.000-07:00

Do you remember what Easter was like as a kid???

I do, and I was reminded of it today, while at church. Here's a few things I remembered:

I remember going shopping for my annual "Easter Dress". Oh fun that was! I don't remember too many of the dresses, but I DO remember the qualifications for said Easter Dress: new white ruffled socks, new shiny white shoes w/ a buckle on the side, a dress w/ tons of flowers on it, and a white brimmed hat with a bow on the front to match the color of the flowers in my dress. I have several photos of those days. I couldn't find one that quite matched the description above...I'm sure my mom still has them and is enjoying them today. However, I did manage to find these beauties:

Can you tell which one is ME? And yes...my mom made us cut our hair that way. So don't blame me for looking like a boy....all of my sisters did at one time or another. Mom says we didn't like to brush our hair, so she decided to keep it trimmed short. I say she was sad she only had one boy. Oh well...what was done was done. I'm still bitter about it, though...obviously!

Going for Easter Egg hunts. My mother went out of town to visit my brother and his family for the Holidays. She loves dying the eggs and hiding them for the kids. Now...we never had MONEY-filled eggs like some folks. But we did put candy in them. Frankly, I'm surprised my older brother didn't put "nuggies" or something crazy like that in there....he was always doing crazy stuff like that! Anyway, I miss doing that...it was always fun.

I do remember one year when we had maybe 30 eggs that we hid in the backyard. Of course, we'd just put them random places and we thought we were smart enough to remember where we hid them. WRONG!!! Let's just say that the NEXT year, we found some pretty rotten eggs in the woods, and dad got upset w/ us for leaving them in the gutters as well!!! ooooppppssss.....

I saw a pic of my friend's little boy sitting in the Easter Bunny's lap. Ya...I never did that. Nor did I ever do it with Santa. I don't know...was I scared of the scary looking thing? Was I camera shy? Were we too cheap to purchase the pictures? or Were we just too lazy to actually stand in line for a while to get a picture w/ the creature? I dunno.

In our baskets, we always had simple things. It ALWAYS included a chocolate bunny. Mine had to be white chocolate, of course. I'm not a big fan of chocolate...unless it's white. Then, I'm all in!!! We had some jelly beans, some Cadberry eggs (and yes...mom was the only one who actually liked those things, so I'm sure that is why she kept buying them to put in our baskets...she always got the leftovers....smart woman!!) It was simple, but a nice present.

Years later, I went to my Aunt & Uncle's house who were living in Utah at the time. I spent Easter with them and got to see what was in their baskets. MAN...my mom jipped us. My cousins got toys, games, money, candy....I mean, today they probably have Ipods and laptops in their baskets. Soooo jealous!!! But hey- I'm not complaining. My Aunt put some money and Bath & Body Works stuff in a basket for me. I guess I was a good girl that year, b/c that's the best basket I've ever gotten!

What do you remember most about Easter, when you were little?

My Favorites - good or bad?

2011-04-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

Yah...I know...

I shouldn't have "favorite students" in my classes.

But I do!

I am reminded of it everytime one of "those kids" ask me for something and I say NO, and then my lil angel comes up and asks for the same dern thing....and of course, I say "ok....rápido" with my cutsie smile.

I KNOW I shouldn't. I KNOW it's bad. I KNOW, I KNOW, I KNOW, I said.

But who can blame me? I wanted teachers to like me...I wanted to be noticed. I wanted to show off. And so...I guess I tend to favor them as well.

I'm a horrible person. I mean, really...how do parents keep from doing it? C'mon...be honest here! You KNOW we all do it. We are all like this at some point. I mean...if you could go to the store and buy the perfect child...wouldn't you???

I KNOW I would!!!

LOST

2011-04-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

Yep, I'm definitely hooked!

I started a little over a week ago, and I'm already on Season 2.

Confessions

(no judging me, please.....):

1. Sawyer is a hottie

2. Jack is pretty good looking

3. Hurley is very sweaty...always. He reminds me of my friend Jared (hope he doesn't read this blog....)

4. I've already watched Season 6, so I know how it ends.

5. I have lots of questions, and I always ask Steven. I HATE it when people tell me they won't tell me the answer. I just HAVE to know NOW!!!

6. Even though Shannon is not on my "like" list....I wish I could look as good as her if I ever get stranded on an island. I mean seriously, folks.....she has on makeup and her hair looks professionally done every day!!!

7. I have yet to cry...and there have been several time I almost cried.

8. Now I know why Steven cried during the last season when Jin & Sun die. They are cute. At first I hated Jin...but now, I think he's a real sweetie and kinda funny, too. At least he is learning how to love correctly. Life is rough...give him a break.

9. I watch all episodes in my living room floor on an air mattress. With MY pillow. So...I like to watch it and be cozy at the same time. Get over it.

10. I missed church this past Sunday b/c I stayed up too late Saturday night (really...Sunday morning) watching this addicting show. I would prolly do the same this Sunday, but I have to teach....anyone wanna SUB for me?

11. Who's my favorite character? Sayid (is that how you spell it??). And by the way...he's a hottie, too. If you like the Iraqi type.

12. Currently, who is getting on my LAST NERVES? Locke. You either love him or you hate him. He's either turstworthy or he's not. He's full of faith, then he's a crazy man. You think he has good intentions...but does he, REALLY???

13. Lost: It's definitely keeping me busy. I am LOST in LOST!!!!

OH MY GOODNESS - an update

2011-04-12T18:06:00.000-07:00

So...by a show of hands, how many of you all still read my blog?

Wow.

I didn't really expect you to raise your hand, though. *dummy*

Now...I have a few things to say:

1. I've thought for a while now about DELETING my blog.

Reason #1: no real updates to post about.

Reason #2: I'm bored of it.

Reason #3: It's just another "thing" to do, that takes me away from "me time" or "hubby time". Neither are really that good, ya know?

Reason #4: just because I can.

2. I finished my Master's class. It has lasted 2 semesters. It was a research class which was HELLACIOUS, if that is even a word. Well, if it wasn't...it is now, so get used to it! The end product was a 50 pager, with around 20 research articles, data analysis, etc, etc, etc. It. was. HARD. Tomorrow I actually upload my paper to my advisor, and I'm officially D-O-N-E.

3. I'm done (with said #2, anyway) until August. Then, I will take one class for the fall, and one again in the winter. Once these two classes finished, I will FINALLY have my Master's Degree. Whew. I'm tired...can I just be done already?

4. In June, Steven & I are taking another trip (yes...a trip with several adolescents yet again...as if we didn't get our fill of them, just yet) to Europe. This time we will visit Germany, France, and Spain. Can't wait for this trip. Is it June yet?

5. We have booked another trip for summer of 2012. Destination: Costa Rica. My all-time-wanna-visit-oooh-so-badly!!!! I mean seriously!!! Does it get any better than tropical weather, canopy tours, zip lines, rainforests, hot springs, nice sandy beaches, and beans & rice for every meal? Okay...maybe take away the beans & rice part. But seriously...can't wait! Is it June 2012 yet?

6. I guess I'm done for now. Any thoughts? Leave me a comment to let me know you still visit here. I guess if there are no comments, I'll be deleting soon. Ugh. Oh well...if you all have dropped me from Google Reader, I'll understand. If not...we'll see how long my "updates" continue.

Tag- you're it!

2010-11-25T07:25:00.000-08:00

Rule #1: people who have been tagged must write their answers on their blogs and replace any question that they dislike with a new question formulated by themselves.

Rule #2: tag 4 people to do this quiz and they cannot refuse. these people must state who they were tagged by and cannot tag the person whom they were tagged by. continue this game by sending it to other people.

-------------------------------------------

1. if you have pets, do you see them as merely animals, or are they members of your family?

I don't have pets. I'm allergic to them. But if I had a cute lil dog, he'd be part of the family. Big, smelly, dirty pets are DEFINITELY not part of the family (although I've always wanted a Great Dane...I guess he is big, but he will definitely not be dirty or smelly!!!)

2. if you can have a dream to come true, what would it be?

To be able to have children easily like most people, & not have to worry about what happens next after they arrive (to work or not to work, if my house is big enough, and how many should we have)

3. what is the one thing most hated by you?

People who lie straight to your face. Even when given the opportunity to tell the truth, they still choose the lie.

4. what would you do with a billion dollars?

Invest most of it...I'm a saver. I hope that nobody would know I won it, though b/c I would want to keep working and living a semi-"normal" life. I'd definitely get Steven a new car (and probably myself...but nothing too fancy). I'd buy a bigger house, one where I'd probably live the rest of my life, and take a trip to Russia, Chile, Costa Rica, Australia, and Washington DC (and travel to each separately...I guess I'll be planning vacations for the next 5 years, at least!!)

5. what helps to pull you out of a bad mood?

Talking it out with my husband, Steven. Even though I HATE it at the moment, he is so loving and giving, and understanding.

6. which is more blessed, loving someone or being loved by someone?

that's easy--being loved.

7. what is your bedtime routine?

Check email (for the ump-teenth time), wash face w/ Noxema, brush my teeth, floss teeth, brush my hair, pick at my face & eyebrows (tweezers & zit poppers...gross, I know!), put on lotion, put on chapstick, then finally....10 minutes later, roll in the bed for my nightly back rub by Steven. :)

8. if you are currently in a relationship, how did you meet your partner?

We met at church. He thought I was dating someone, so I had to assign my only 2 friends at the time (I’d just moved here) to talking to him and letting him know I was interested…and that he needed to ask me out. We went on a conoe trip down the river, went to putt putt golf afterwards, then to Dairy Queen…and the rest is history.

9. if you could watch a creative person in the act of the creative process, who would it be?

I would I really enjoy watching someone doing hair & make-up on famous people. I don’t know why, but I’ve always enjoyed the process, knowing tricks, and listening to the gossip that goes on in beauty salons.

10. what kinds of books do you read?

Well, currently, the only book I am reading involves either church or school. I normally don’t read—shocker, I know. I have issues with reading, and it frustrates me. Like, after reading a page, most times I don’t even know what I read. And when I have to apply “reading strategies” it takes me WAAAY too long to read a page, and I give up. VERY frustrating, like I said.

11. how would you see yourself in ten years time?

Having two children, Steven making more money than he does now (but by working less hours…poor thing!), and not worry thing about money or job security.

12. what’s your fear?

Losing a family member, losing my job or home, being alone.

13. would you give up all junk food for the rest of your life for the opportunity to visit outer space?

Nope. I love McD’s and Wendy’s waaaaay too much!

14. would you rather be single and rich or married, but poor?

The second option….I’m already there!

15. what’s the first thing you do when you wake up?

Go to the bathroom...

16. if you could change one thing about your spouse/partner what would it be?

That he wouldn’t have whatever disease he has—rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or whatever—sometimes he gets strange flare-ups, and we don’t really know what causes it.

17. if you could pick a new name for yourself, what would it be?

Eva (with Spanish accent)…..the E sounds like an A, in English. LOVE. THAT. NAME. Bet you can’t guess what our first girl’s name will be……

18. would you forgive and forget no matter how horrible a thing that special someone has done?

I’d like to say YES. I have a hard time with it. I feel like I’ve forgiven many people. There is currently one I’m still working on (and it’s been a LONG time ago it happened….so why can’t I let it go? It’s frustrating!). But forgetting…that’s the hard part. But, I will keep trying.

19. if you could only eat one thing for the next 6 months, what would it be?

A great big salad from Mazzio’s salad bar with all the toppings: lettuce, cheese, sunflower seeds, green olives, egg whites, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, French fried onions, and tons of croutons, topped w/ a huge ladle of their A.MAZE.ING ranch dressing.

-------------------------------------

NOW...dun dun dun dun........

I tag:

Shutterfly Deal

2010-11-17T14:28:00.000-08:00

My friend (who also has the gift of having my same first name) shared this post a few days ago. I LOVE me some Shutterfly! In fact, if you don't even know who they are...you have GOT to check out their website HERE. I use them whenever I want a photo book, whenever I want cute cards made, and ESPECIALLY when they are having a good deal. And let's be honest, they are ALWAYS having a good deal.

For instance, just for blogging about them, they are doing an offer to receive 50 free Holiday cards. So, that is why I am going to put them to the test. This is what they are advertising:

Bloggers get 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly… sign up: http://bit.ly/sfly2010

Here are a few things I think I'll enjoy, and you might too:

If you like the flat stationary cards, check this out!
If you want to check out all their Christmas cards, go here.
OR, if you just want some girlie invitations for a special occasion, check this out!

Seriously...these people know what they're doing! The packaging that your final product comes in is very unique, professional, and so cute! So...what are you waiting for?!?!!! Check it out, for all your photo needs!

* New Purchase *

2010-10-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

The newest addition to our home:

two

SKY CHAIRS

These are like individual hammocks. You can put them on the porch, on an A-frame (kinda like a swing set) or on a large tree branch, like a tire swing.

You see, I just attended my first Renaissance Fair, and it was a lot of fun. It was interesting, to say the least! I attended a joust, a juggling act, a fire-eating presentation, and saw some people get hypnotized. It was kind of hot, but it was a fun time! Although I didn't eat a turkey leg, as I had anticipated...having some some Philly cheese fries, a large pickle, a bag of cinnamon roasted almonds, and a few bits of a chocolate chip ice cream bar (by faaaaar one of the best things I've eaten in a LOOONG time) made the day even better!

However, the coziest spot at the fair had these "Sky Chairs" set up under a small pavilion. Every now and then, people would walk by and ask about them. I don't know about them, but for me it was "love at first sight". They are SO COZY! They have a silly foot rest, I know. But you can't knock it 'til you try it. And you can't buy just one...you have to buy two! Who wants to enjoy this all alone? So...they will be adorning our front porch sometime this week.

And I just CAN'T WAIT...doesn't it look so inviting? I'll tell you what...the next time you come over for a visit, I *might* let you sit in Steven's chair! :)

My new favorite...

2010-09-18T11:51:00.000-07:00

Just the other day,

I stumbled upon THIS blog:

http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/

It doesn't always have the cleanest language, so beware.

However, the author, Allie, is brilliant.

She makes me laugh

ALL. THE. TIME.

Check it out!

(there's a list on the right of some of her most famous blog entries....so funny!)

Seriously? ... SERIOUSLY!!!

2010-09-03T16:04:00.000-07:00

WELL...It didn't paste quite so well into Blogger.

Oh well.

Take a look below, and see if you can decipher what this means.

Your Direct Loans

Account Number Status Repayment Plan Principal Balance Fixed Payment Current Due Past Due Late Charges Total Due Due Date
*****2697-1
Loan Details Paid in Full Standard $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
*****2697-2
Loan Details Paid in Full Standard $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00

Totals N/A N/A $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 N/A

Seriously?

SERIOUSLY!!!

...today is a great day!

Book of Travels

2010-08-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

We finally finished our photo book!!! It's only taken us 2 months to get it done. WOW! Two weeks worth of sightseeing and photo-taking sure does take a long time to organize!!!

If you dare...take a peak at what will be coming in the mail in about 2 weeks:

Click here to view this photo book larger

Get two beers and Jump!

2010-08-12T15:24:00.000-07:00

If you watch Jimmy Fallon's late night show, you'd know what I was referring to in the title of this post.

Yes, that is what I've occupied my time with this summer...tv shows (a lot of them!).

On Tuesday night, he sang a song about the Jet Blue man...you know the famous STEVE SLATER they are all talking about. If you don't watch the news...and don't pay attention to Hollywood gossip much, you may have to Google this one.

Basically, this guy has become a hero, overnight. A hero for...what? He was a flight attendant (did he get fired YET?), who got angry, yelled a few obscene things over the PA system, grabbed 2 beers, and exited out the emergency exit of the plane...after 28 years of working for the plane company.

My view of the situation...HILARIOUS! Have you seen this Steve guy anyway? U.G.L.Y. I mean, I'm sure he'll get a free makeover out of this, and he'll have a reality show before you know it. This guy is set for life...no more jobs for him. He'll retire in riches, and I'll still be punching the clock, so to speak.

Anyway, back to Jimmy Fallon. He sang a song called "Grab two beers and jump"...this was the 2nd song, that I could find on You Tube. He did a different one on Tuesday, but can't find it anywhere. See for yourself...it will crack you up!

Personally, my two favorite lines are:

"When people with ugly feet wear flip flops you gotta get two beers & jump"

& the best of all...

"When somebody tells you what happened on Jersey Shore you gotta get two beers & jump"

What is your favorite "annoyance"

...you can use one of Jimmy's line, or just make up your own!

EUROPE - Part 5

2010-08-12T08:03:00.000-07:00

ITALY

We sailed from Greece to Italy on a ferry. Now, I know what you're thinking....a ferry? Yes. And it was more like a cruise liner, if you ask me. The boat was HUGE, the room was nice (except for the itty bitty shower curtain w/ only 2 hooks), the air was cool on the top deck, the food was good (for cafeteria food, anyway...well, except for the price). What more could you ask for?

Well, what is a "field trip" with a group of 45 without a little bit of misfortune? Well...the next morning, we got a very strange wake up call! At 8:30 am, I was woken by the captain making the announcement to "Abandon Ship". Now, this was heard in THREE languages (Greek, Italian, & English). It was VERY loud. And, it was repeated three times that EVERY passenger needed to cooperate. I ask Steven what we were supposed to do, and we had no clue! We meet up w/ some other ladies from the trip, decide we should probably go to the top deck to jump overboard if necessary (isn't that what you'd think it meant to abandon ship???), and we met a man working on the ferry at the staircase. We ask him where we were supposed to go for the emergency drill, and he said "you can go anywhere you want". That was NOT helpful. at. all. Needless to say, we went to the top deck only to see we were the only ones w/ crazy bed-hair, and our pjs on. Everyone else was eating breakfast, reading books, and swimming in the pool as if nothing had happened. The funniest part of it all came at breakfast, when we learned that 10 of our group had to stand in a corner with life jackets on for 30 minutes. They, too, were the ONLY ones mandated to do so. People passed by left and right...and they tried to remove their jackets, and were yelled at quickly. At least I didn't have to do that!!! ha!

Pics from the ferry:

This is a view from the top deck:

This is a pic of the one meal we ate, before getting off in Italy. It was pasta....so good! You can see that Steven & I got the same dish. All together, for 2 pastas, 2 rolls, & 2 waters....it was $35. Not so cheap.

This is a picture of one of the areas in the middle deck. There were 3-4 of them. There was a snack bar at one end, tables in the middle, and in this particular room, there was also a mini stage where bands performed the night before.

AND...dun dun dun dun...

This is what we see as soon as we step off the ferry-

Welcome to ITALY! It was definitely different from Greek architecture!

I have to say, Italy was my favorite country we visited this summer. The atmosphere seemed perfect. The people were very polite. I no longer felt completely lost when it came to understanding the language. Spanish & Italian are VERY similar, so it was easy to understand them & talk to them (even though occasionally we'd be conversing in two languages, really), and they understood English very well, too.

We stayed in a small town outside of Florence. It was a very nice hotel, and the food was excellent! The night life in this small resort town was nice. We ventured out, and saw all sorts of people walking about, and dining on the patios. There were lots of expensive shops, so we could tell that this was "the place to be" in the summer time.

Here are a few pics of the little town we stayed in:

This was a cute little sign, to point the way to Florence (Firenze, in Italian):

I told you, we went out at night, so here are a few night shots (even got one of Steven in the rain):

And...the next morning, when the rain had stopped, this is the view from our hotel balcony:

So...the first day in Italy (on a Sunday), we went to Pisa. Yes, we went to see the leaning tower! But there was SO MUCH more to see. There is an entire plaza, and the tower is only part of the beauty of this place. There is a baptistery (the largest in the world), a cemetery, and a huge cathedral. Of course, we got to visit all of these sites. Normally, the cemetery is closed to visitors. BUT, we visited on a Sunday, and couldn't really walk around the cathedral...we could only peek in the back of the church. So, they allowed us to go into the cemetery that day.

And just to warn you...pictures will never be able to do this place justice. It is simply amazing!

This is the view of the square when we first arrived. The sun was shining bright. You can see a bit of the baptistery (to the left of the photo), the cathedral in the middle (can't miss it), and the tower to the right, tucked in behind the church)

Okay, so I forgot to flip this pic (oops), but this is how it looked as we exited. This is a beautiful pic...just turn your head sideways a bit to experience it (sorry, again!).

Here's the cemetery. There are coffins (real ones) to the right, and they were on the left as well. The entire cemetery is a rectangle w/ a garden in the middle. And...did you notice the floor? Yes, people are buried underneath the walkway! gross...we walked on dead people! And on the walls are murals that are slowly being restored.

This is the baptistery. Like I said earlier, this is the largest in the world. We went inside and they have people come every hour to demonstrate the acoustics. It was amazing...they sang simple chords, and we stood in awe just listening. You can see the cemetery in the background, and the church sits across the courtyard (to the right, in the pic). This is a pic of what it looks like inside the baptistery, from the top. Towards the top, you can see the chair and pulpit (to the left) where the preacher stands, and where they make a sermon before/after the baptism. The round structure toward the bottom is where you are baptized. They still baptize today in here. In the middle of the baptism font stands John the Baptist.

This is me, doing the silly pose that everyone does...holding up the tower. ENJOY! Yes...it is heavy! ha!

This is a shot of the tower, as we walked past it. So beautiful. Sorry...it's turned the wrong way, again. Yes, you can go inside it and climb to the top, for $20/person. But, they only allow 30 people up, every 30 minutes. That means you have to make it to the top and back down again in half an hour...and if you think about it, that is over 1,000 stairs to climb in 30 min. NO...we did not decide to go in the tower. Whew!

These were some of the vendors waiting to make a sell, outside of the square.

This is a pic of the vendor where we ate our lunch. I ate a hot dog smothered in ketchup and mayo...GROSS! Steven ate a chicken sandwich. The variety of beverages was amazing!

And last, but not least...us, about ready to leave one of the most fascinating places in Italy. Here, it was overcast for a bit. It sprinkled while we were there, but all in all...it was perfect for touring this plaza!!!

Up next....Florence

EUROPE - Part 4

2010-08-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

GREECE

The FINAL Days

DELPHI

The Saronic Cruise was the last day we spent in Athens. From there, we headed to Delphi to see the ancient ruins of Apollo & other Greek Gods & Goddesses. On the way to Delphi, we passed through a the small town of Arachova...which only has one narrow street that runs through the middle of it. It is the only way to get to Delphi, which is stuck in the middle of nowhere, really. Our bus driver, Kris, was amazing at navigating through these small roads. We only had one mishap, when he hit the awning of a local restaurant (oops!). Take it from me...it was VERY scary when we came around the bend only to barely miss the side mirrors of an oncoming tour bus! Yikes! I'm so glad we made it through it safely! See for yourself in these pics, taken from my seat in the tour bus:

Seeeeeee...I told you it was scary!!!!!

Anyway, we got to Delphi around 1:30 or 2 in the afternoon. Again, it was over 100 degrees outside, and we weren't eating lunch until afterwards (can you imagine???). So again, we were let loose to peruse through these ancient ruins by ourselves, and afterwards we'd meet our tour guide who would tell us about what we saw. I have to admit...I made it only halfway up the mountain. I had a migraine and was suffering from the extreme heat, so I decided to wait in the shade and I watched Steven climb to the top, to see the Olympic Stadium, until he disappeared for about 15 minutes. He got a short video where he said if he ever went back, he was never climbing to the top again! But just seeing the video makes you have goosebumps. It is huge. Such history lies in a place like this. And to think places like this are still being discovered today. To be able to walk among these ruins, and feel the spirit of the Greek Mythology was something I'll never forget. It was so calm and serene.

Pic #1: This is the treasury of the Arthenians. Interesting.

Pic #2: This is what is left of Apollo's temple. I wish I could've seen it back in the old days! It would've been so cool!

Pic #3: This is the view of Delphi, as we started hiking up the mountain. Man...it was scorching outside, but the experience of climbing up these winding paths was amazing. The history that you are witnessing, and the "spirit of Delphi" was indescribable.

Pic #4-5: This is the view of Delphi from above. How in the world the Athenians managed to build such a city o the sides of these steep mountains is beyond me. However, I do know how they were so athletic...from walking up and down these stairs so much!! ha ha ha

Pic #6-7: Steven & I, in front of the arena. I only went up a little higher than this...then I went back down to the shade. This arena was HUGE.

After exploring the ruins of Delphi, we went to an air-conditioned museum where they showcase various things they have found, things that belonged to the Athenians. I'm sure Steven enjoyed every minute of his perusing through the museum. As for me, I laid flat on a bench with sweat and tears running down my cheek. Little did I know, but my migraine would last for the next 2 hours. It. was. TERRIBLE.

METEORA

After Delphi, we headed to Meteora, which was one of my favorite places we ventured to. I think it is because of the land formations. I have NEVER seen such miraculous architecture in my life! I mean, the buildings are such unique pieces of artwork, yes. But to think that God made the land so perfect...it's almost like these monasteries were meant to be built here. Now, we saw a LOT of catholic churches, but these monasteries fascinated me like I never imagined. See for yourself:

(side note: See the ropes coming through the windows of the above pic? That's how they used to get food and water into the buildings, before there were roads built. Interesting.)

Anyway, we actually visited 2 of the 5 monasteries which are still standing today. Originally, there were over 25 of these built, but over the years (from severe weather and deterioration) only 5 of them are still standing and are fully operational. Visitors are allowed in, and it was really interesting to see their way of life, and to learn about the Greek Orthodox Church. One we visited was more monks, and the other for nuns. It wasn't until about 25 years ago that women were even allowed inside these monasteries. And yes, all women (even the visitors had to wear skirts inside). Here's proof:

Pic #1: standing outside the 1st monastery, in my beautiful skirt. It was hot...at least men could wear knee-length shorts.

Pic #2: standing atop the same monastery. The view from here was stunning.

Pic #3: In the middle of each monastery, there is always an open courtyard. It was so nice and breezy here. Such a nice area.

All in all, it was a GREAT last 2 days in Greece, in Delphi & Meteora!

And, that about sums it up for Greece. After the monasteries, we got on a ferry boat and traveled to Italy. Oh yeah...there's a story there!

Because there was construction going on, on the road to Meteora, we had to take a 3 hour detour. That put us behind. Then, we went to a store where they made their golden idols...the store was on fire. So, we took another detour. We get a call saying our ferry is leaving an hour earlier. We missed dinner, and had to have food delivered to us in a trash bag. When we got to the port to board the ferry, our border patrol boarded our bus and asked a bazillion questions, and some of us didn't have our story straight...can you imagine going through all of this (plus not even remembering what day we even arrived in Greece b/c of our flights being canceled and changed???). Anyway, we made it...barely! The ferry boat was quite an experience in itself...we'll save it for next time. :)

Stay tuned for Part 5....

¡Viva Italia!

EUROPE - Part 3

2010-08-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

GREECE

The Saronic Gulf Cruise

The second day in Greece was a Cruise. Thank goodness for that! After the heat exhaustion we experienced from the day before, the hike up to the Parthenon, we needed to rest! So, we hopped on a cruise ship and headed out to see 3 of the Greek Isles: Poros, Hydra, and Aegina.

1st Island: POROS

It took us about 1 1/2 hours to reach the first island of Poros. During this time, we snacked, relaxes, rested, and watched a few dolphins jumping out of the water alongside our boat. The island of Poros was really nice. We had about 30 minutes there. The small allies were neat, and the shops were very detailed. Of course, you know something had to happen to one of MY students in this short time frame, right? Yes, her and her mother got left behind. They both saw the boat pulling away, and just stood there on the island. Well, it was a simple $200 to take a water taxi for them to meet us on the next stop. I guess they should've flagged us down, or looked at the watch a little sooner, eh?

Pic#1: This is what our cruise ship looked like. See the Greek flag flying at the top?

Pic #2: This is the island of Poros, as we were approaching it. The water is so clear and beautiful!

Pic #3-4: These are a few snapshots of the allies & shops on the island of Poros. So cute, yet so close together!

Pic#5: Of course, Steven would document the moment we were sailing away, when we notice we are missing two members of our crew: (the daughter is the one in yellow shorts, and the mother in a pink top to our right...they had just stood in line to purchase some snacks at a small shop at the top of the stairs to the right of them...I hope it was worth it!)

2nd Island: Hydra

This was by far my favorite of the three islands! We spent over and hour here, and the shopping was simply wonderful! I bought Greek jewelry (necklance & bracelet) with a traditional design on it (the one that represents eternity, that keeps repeating itself) adorned with turquoise. Together, Steven & I a beautiful globe - the water is onyx stone and each country is cut from a semi-precious stone like mother-of-pearl or lapis lazuli.

Pic #1: The island of Hydra, as we were approaching

Pic#2: I just can't get enough of the Greek houses...they are so...GREEK! This pic was taken right before we got off the cruise

Pic #3: A few of the first shops we ran into on the island. If you look at the one that is on the left, that is the store where we bought our treasures.

Pic#4: No cars are allowed to drive on this island. So...what do they do for transportation? Well...they either walk or go by donkey, of course!

Pic#5: Steven & I, just enjoying the Greek atmosphere. Ahhhh...vacation is wonderful, isn't it?

3rd Island: Aegina

This island was for relaxation mainly. We could swim in the Greek waters. We stayed here for 2 1/2 hours. We rented a small umbrella on the beach, ordered a few drinks (non-alcoholic, of course...it's a school trip!), and I sat on the beach watching Steven & some of my students swim. Why didn't I swim? I had a headache, and we were going to a Greek show that evening, and I we didn't have time to change...so I didn't want to get dirty. :)

This island is also known for their pistachios. You could buy them by the kilo, or in prepared bags. We ended up buying a kilo (which was definitely NOT enough), and some Steven bought some interesting jars of pistachio makings--one is a cream, and the other is a honey mixture. Don't ask me what you do with them...but they are currently still on the kitchen counter. The pistachios...are mostly gone. I am trying to make them last as long as possible...but it is tempting seeing them open everyday on the counter top.

Pic#1: Steven swimming in the clear blue waters of Aegina.

Pic#2: The shops we passed on our way back to the cruise. These were mainly pistachio vendors.

EUROPE - Part 2

2010-08-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

GREECE

Our visit to the Parthenon

Okay, so I know it's been a while, but if you go back and read about our HORRIBLE flight situation from earlier, you'll remember that it took us 3 days to get to Athens, Greece. My group was a group of 12. I had already sent a group of 5 early that day, so I had prayed that they made it safely.

Now, Steven is MUCH better at words than I am. So....in his own words (from his own diary...yes, that's right. He was the official photographer & journalist for the trip. What else do you expect?...I had to try and manage the whereabouts of a group of 45, with the majority of them being hormonal teenagers!!):

"Sometime in the early a.m., Tuesday June 15 - Greece. A very appropriate label right now. It not only describes the country we have just entered, but also the relative condition of our personal cleanliness. We are/feel/look/smell so gross right now, not even the livestock-bathing stall that is our hotel room shower can dissuade us from washing. The room is small and Spartan but the air conditioning works and the water runs, and we are content."

That's right. We took NO PICTURES of this day. We were smelly and just plain 'ol gross. We arrived sometime around 2 a.m., and got up at 9 a.m. to see the Acropolis. Well, let me just tell you that communication was NOT the best attribute of our tour director, Holda! So...there my group is (all 12 of us), ready to leave by 10:30 a.m. (as directed to before heading off to bed the night before). At 11:30 a.m., another member of our group (who got re-routed through London, and had landed at 5:30 a.m.) came down to get breakfast and informed us that we were now meeting at 12:30 in the afternoon. Needless to say, we went back to bed for another hour. Yes, this was only the beginning of a SUPER STRESSFUL DAY!

Again, in Steven's words:

"10:32 a.m., Tuesday June 15 - The Acropolis. The Parthenon. A symbolic cornerstone of civilization, and we have to hike there? In the hot Greek afternoon sun?" (I know he wrote 10:32, but we hiked to see the Parthenon at 2:00 in the afternoon, when it was well over 100 degrees outside. You can't even BEGIN to imagine the number of headaches, achy stomachs, and complaining that was going on...not to mention that we had skipped lunch that day--don't forget, my group had eaten at 9 that morning, and hadn't eaten since).

"The darkness of flying in at night kept us from enjoying what surely would have been spectacular views of the ocean, Athens and mountains. Whereas Frankfurt was delightfully unfamiliar, Athens feels utterly alien. The language both spoken & written, is indecipherable. Yet our joy to be here, all together, and at last, is tangible.

That, my friends...was our first day in Greece. EXTREMELY hot. EXTREMELY long. And EXTREMELY frustrating. Although the view, and the experience of walking around the Parthenon was breathtaking.

Pic 1: the view of the Parthenon from the bottom. Yes, it was REALLY HOT. We were all thinking "are you kidding me? We have to walk up that thing now" And all the kids were thinking, "do they have an elevator?"

Pic 2: As you can see, the only way up/down is to walk. It is quite the hike, especially in the heat of the afternoon...but luckily our tour guide took us up bit by bit, and we got to sit and listen to her tell us about history in partial shade (which you can see....there is little to no shade).

Pic 3: We are so glad to have made it to the top! :)

Pic 4: The view of Athens, from the Parthenon.

Pic 5: The Parthenon, in all it's majestic glory. Amazing.

(you can see them doing small repairs to it on the left. They are trying to keep it in good condition. The tour guide said they are ALWAYS restoring bits & pieces of it. You can see some of the columns have white patches in them...that is the part that is restored. But by the time the crane finishes and makes a full circle...it is time to start all over again! ha!)

SOooooo Sorry!

2010-08-05T16:42:00.000-07:00

Let me just apologize.

I am in a funky funk right now.

I just don't know what to do about it.

Seriously, I think there is something wrong with me. You see, I have traveled so much this summer...and now I'm home. It's like I have "vacation blues" or something. It was so thrilling going to Europe. I had a busy time going to Philly and seeing the sites...time passed by so quickly! I had a blast (just not in the heat) when I went to see my three nephews in Arizona. Then, I enjoyed the relaxation of Nauvoo this weekend.

And now...I'm at home. Yes, I am enjoying my new home.

I really am.

I'm enjoying not having to get up early.

I'm enjoying watching talk shows, game shows, reality shows, and late night shows.

I'm enjoying the joy of cooking, cleaning, and shopping whenever I want.

I'm enjoying not being so stressed and putting my husband before school-related things.

I'm simply enjoying everything about my TIME. OFF.

But, why do I feel so silly for yearning to be back on "vacation"? I mean...I'm on vacation (at least from my teaching job), yet I feel like I need to go on another vacation? I want to be anywhere but here. And in 2 weeks...I'll wish I was back here, not going to work.

What's wrong with me?

I need to learn to be satisfied with where I am.

I'm too antsy. I'm never satisfied. I always need "one more". One more beverage. One more milkshake. One more bargain from the clearance rack. One more place to go to. One more minute to finish my online game or movie.

This is definitely not good.

Ugh.

For your pleasure, I'll put some pics up of the new home. I hope you enjoy.

The master bedroom:

The living room:

The kitchen:

The house:

Europe - Part 1

2010-07-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

Well, there is no guarantee that there won't be 10 "parts" to our 12-day experience in Europe. There were so many things that happened (both good & bad), and most of them are "news-worthy", so I'll do my best to give the most accurate description of our travels. I hope you don't get bored on our journey...if anything, I hope you enjoy the pictures. It was quite a trip...so for those of you all that live far away, that haven't heard much about it...I'm doing this for you! :)

Day 1--Sunday, June 13th

St. Louis & Chicago, USA

This is the day that was longer. than. you. can. IMAGINE!

Our group of 45 got stuck in St. Louis...that's right. We hadn't even left on a single plane, and we had no idea what was in store for us. This is the first thing we saw:

That's right...we were the first flight delayed to Chicago! This caused us to miss all of our connections, and our group was quickly separated. We were all so happy...a group of teenagers stuck in an airport, waiting for American Airlines to "do something" about our flights, in Chicago. Look for yourselves:

When we finally got word...we had to run! 17 of us were headed to Germany, and the other 28 we flying "standby" to London. Needless to say, I was in the group that got to experience Germany "at it's best".

Now, the flight was probably the most memorable flight I've been on in my life! On the flight to Germany, I met a guy named Seth. Seth was a soldier headed to Afghanistan, and let's just say...he was "not in his right mind". By this, I mean...he was already waaay past drunk when I met him, and he was high as well. You get my drift....this kid was completely wasted! The mother of one of my students (who was sitting directly in front of me on the plane) was the lucky gal who got to sit beside Seth. If you can imagine...the next 2 hours would be full of Seth: air-drumming, sharing ear buds, yelling to his friend about 5 rows up, talking to everyone loudly, taping his feet, laughing, and so forth. It was quite a site, let me tell you.

So, Deb (the mother of my student), being the motherly-type, listens to him, asks him questions, and is a bit fascinated in this character. She is listening to his music, putting up with his air-drumming, and his yelling...and every now and then, she'd tell him to quiet down. She was a trooper! Then came dinner time. By this time, Seth had quieted down a bit, and was getting tired. His drumming was smaller, and he wasn't as loud. He ate on his stomach...the flight attendant even showed him how to use the fold-down tray. But, Seth, being as crazy as he was...wanted to just use his own belly. Now...Set was all of 100 pounds, I bet. Deb was not as small. After dinner, this is what we saw:

Very picture worthy, eh? Yes, Seth was completely passed out! Every now and then, he'd wake up and "fluff" Deb's arm...as if it was his own pillow. It was hil-arious!!!

So...this now takes us to Day 2:

Frankfurt, Germany

This was nor part of our original itinerary. We had not planned on going to Germany. But, once we found out we could get another stamp in our passport...we were excited.

However, the excitement didn't last for too long. Once we arrived in Germany, we quickly found out that we only had 5 confirmed seats to Athens, Greece. Our group had a total of 17 passengers. So, I went along with Misha, another teacher, to go sort things out...don't we look like we're having a GREAT time?

Well, that is me laughing...yes. However, what the picture doesn't tell you...is this was the third time we'd visited the Lufthansa airline desk...it was so crazy!! After 6 hours of going from the American Airlines desk to the Lufthansa desk, only to do it 3 more times...we finally got tickets for everyone! We were in 2 different groups...but we all had confirmed seats to get to Greece!

So, what did we do in the meantime? While we waited for yet another departure? We ate, of course! For our "trouble"...American gave us vouchers, each valued at 22 Euros each. That is about $30 worth of food for each person. So, here are a few things we ordered...hot dog, potato salad, drinks, dessert platters, etc.

We arrived in Athens, at midnight on the 3rd day!!! Stay tuned for our adventures in Greece. Don't worry...things get better (and a bit worse, too).

The long awaited day of travel...

2010-06-28T16:06:00.001-07:00

Sorry to disappoint you.

But, Steven took most of the photos of our travel experience to Greece.

There is one problem, which is why there are no photos, and I refuse to tell you the whole story of our trip, until we can get ALL of the pictures, and tell you step by step what we experienced.

You see, it all started a few days before departure. We bought a "new & improved" SD card for Steven's camera, and it supposed to be "ooh so nice". Well, new & improved things don't always work with old/outdated electronic items. You see, our computer is old, and my camera is also too old to read the new memory card.

I even thought I was a bit ahead of the game, since I really did think of this BEFORE the trip. I went to Amazon.com and bought a "card reader" that plugs into a USB outlet on the computer. So, I thought we'd be okay when we returned and we'd get to upload our pics using our new SD card reader. Well...this didn't end so well. I shipped the card reader to my parent's address, who live nearby, but they are in Arizona this week...so I can't get my card reader until next week.

Ugh.

Sorry guys, but you'll have to wait another week to hear of our marvelous adventures to Europe with 40 teenagers. :/

For now, enjoy the pic of our HAPPIEST of faces. Obviously, this is BEFORE the drama all started.

Stay tuned for more details & pics...

Just because I can....

2010-06-25T10:03:00.003-07:00

Here are a few pics of our recent trip

to Greece, Italy, & Spain.

Don't be too jealous!

GREECE--

This first pic comes from the METEORA region of Greece. We visited 2 monasteries (one for nuns, and the other for monks). There were originally over 25 built on the rocks of Meteora, but today only 5 are still standing. A.Maze.Ing.

This second pic, is obviously, from the acropolis. Sorry about the random guy's head in the foreground. He wouldn't move. R-u-de. Anyway, we hiked up to the top in over 100 degree weather, at 2pm, right in the middle of the hot-ness, having had no lunch. Yes, I can't believe it myself. This is only ONE of the many "unbelievable" things that happened to us (that were not-so-pleasant). But we'll save the ugly part of the trip for later. Regardless, it was amazing to see such sites as this.

We took a day cruise to 3 of the Greek isles: Poros, Hydra, & Aegina. This was my favorite place to shop, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere of Greece. My favorite souvenirs came from Greece. It was hotter than hot, let me tell you. BUT, well worth it!

ITALY--

Of course, who can go to Italy without going to Pisa?! Little did I know, the leaning tower wasn't the only thing around...there was an entire square of things to visit and see. In the background, you can see the famous tower...but the cathedral in the middle was quite impressive! The large round building you see a small piece of on the left was the baptistery...and oh my! It was incredible. Steven has a video of the acoustics demonstration...it is something to look forward to seeing!

SPAIN--

This is only part of the famous cathedral, La Sagrada Familia, the Holy Family. It will take over 200 years to complete. No, we didn't get to go inside...but to walk around the entire square was simply breathtaking. The total cost of building this is astronomical, but I'd love to go back and see it if it is finished in my lifetime.

Well, folks. That's only a small sample of the amazing time we had in Europe these past few days. GREAT food. GREAT sites. GREAT souvenirs.

Who could ask for more?

States

2010-06-02T15:09:00.001-07:00

Yes...I KNOW...I need to post about our new purchase (aka home).

However, I need to get to making dinner & unpacking....

that seems to be all I'm good at doing lately.

oh...and getting the internet working, getting pulled over by a cop, packing/unpacking, and spending money.

For now...a cute display of where in the US I've been-

visited 35 states (70%)
Create your own visited map of The United States

What a Day!

2010-05-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

We had a GREAT weekend.

'nuff said.

The Lambson Family (the ones that are here in Columbia, anyway)

along with....

Elder Richard G. Scott, Quorum of the 12 Apostles

Elder Larry Lawrence, Quorum of the Seventy (and Steven's Mission President)

Elder Michael Reall, Quorum of the Seventy (and our recently released Stake President)

FINALLY....a HOME!

2010-05-01T09:55:00.000-07:00

For all of you who are dying to see what we are going to be purchasing in a few weeks....ta dah!

Yes, this is a picture of our soon to be new address. You can go HERE to view more pictures, and to see more specifics about the house. Don't pay attention to the price it was listed for....we paid NOWHERE near that for this lil treasure. It has a creak and bit of woods that run behind it. It has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and it PERFECT for us.

So, here are the plans so far:

- We close in May 21st (Friday)

- We will start painting Friday evening (5-8ish)

- We will round up a bunch of friends & family to help us finish the paint job on Saturday and we are feeding them lunch (10-4ish....anyone dying to volunteer????)

-We will clean (yes, I know....it's just dusty though) the following week, buy a mower, weed eater, install a few things, move a few small things, etc.

-Saturday the 29th, we will MOVE officially.

` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` `

ANY VOLUNTEERS

for painting or cleaning are highly encouraged! :)

Happy Birthday

2010-04-12T18:43:00.000-07:00

My nephew, Sione turns SIX today.

I called around 8pm today. He answered the phone. I sang "Happy Birthday" really loud & obnoxious. When I was done, it was NOT Sione's voice on the other end...it was his lil brother Filipe, saying "hello? helllloooooo".

What happened, you ask? Not quite sure.

Was it my horrible voice? Was it my loudness? Or was Birthday Boy not-so-happy?

*shrug*

Oh well...Happy Birthday, anyway!

Some of my favorite pics:

not-so-fun-SATURDAY

2010-04-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

Are we having FUN yet?

uhmmmm....not hardly....

MAJOR Update

2010-04-04T18:19:00.000-07:00

Spring Break: WONDERFUL time in Chicago. Pics to come soon (hopefully)

HOUSE: Our bid was finally accepted today (after going back 'n forth all weekend)!!! It is not the house pictured below, so pics are soon to come of that as well. We are nervous, but excited at the same time!

Happy Easter!

HUGE decision

2010-03-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

The time has finally come for Steven & I to consider buying a home.

We've been renting the entire time we've been married.

The perks...The things we're looking forward to:

1. A garage

It will be SO NICE not to have to scrape our windows all the time. It will be nice not to have to go outside in the skivies to start my car 5 minutes before leaving for work, just to warm up the car. It will be nice not to worry about people breaking into your vehicle overnight, and not having a way to get to work the next morning. It will be ESPECIALLY nice not to be angry when I come home & find that someone has stolen my parking space!

2. Rent will be the same every month.

As renters, you never know whether rent will increase from year to year.

3. We will have a place of our OWN.

A place not to hear neighbors going up and down the stairs. A place where when the neighbors turn on the water, it doesn't affect MY water temperature when I'm in the shower.

4. $8.000 first-time home buyer credit.

SWEET!

There are several other reasons why owning would be nice. But, then again...there are also the duties one has to take on when you own a home.

1. MOWING

'Nuff said. UGH!

2. If something breaks, you have to fix it, or call someone to fix it.

3. Upkeep of the house.

Painting, replacing things. And being extra careful to take care of things, so you can resell it a bit easier in the end.

4. LARGE monthly payments.

So...that's what Steven & I have been up to lately. If you want to see the house we are considering currently, click HERE.

What do you think?

A Day for ME...

2010-03-07T08:02:00.000-08:00

So...What did I do for my

30th Birthday?

Shopped 'til I dropped:

You know...you'd think that all of that stuff is for me. But NO...about 1/2 is for my dear husband. I can't help it...when you find a good deal, it's a good deal. The perfect fit. The perfect price (when you're lucky). The perfect opportunity.

The day was BEAUTIFUL. It was 55 degrees. The sun was shining, and the outlet was not very crowded. Indeed, it was the PERFECT day to go shopping! (all except for Steven's bum ankle...oh well, we still had fun, even if we were slowed down a bit).

Here's a few of the things we purchased:

a total of 8 shirts for me. 7 are for summer, and 1 is long-sleeved. Which ones are my favorite? Just wait and see....

These 2 are definitely among my top 2! The picture is crappy, but the one on the left is my favorite shirt of the day...I got it at Nautica. It was on sale, but it still wasn't the best bargain of the day. Oh well...it was my birthday. I'm allowed to get ONE thing that's not on the clearance rack! ;)

Here's the pile that is mostly Steven's:

He racked up @ Nautica as well. (Don't ask how much we spent there...it's really embarrassing!) The long-sleeved shirt on the bottom left is really great! It was $10, and even though he probably won't wear it until next year...it's a perfect fit, and the color is fabulous on him! The t-shirt that is light blue on the top, and the shorts on the bottom are right up there as well...the shorts are from Nautica as well, while the t-shirt is from Aeropostle.

The dress to the right, is obviously (hopefully) mine.

The picture doesn't do it justice AT ALL. Oh well...that way, when you see me in it, it'll look even better, right? I had to get a matching accessory.... :)

The shoes on the top left (the strange orange ones), are my "find" of the entire shopping spree:

So they are a bit hideous, I know. They were $5. FIVE BUCKS! They are a bit "plastic-y", but they are oooohhhhhh so cozy! I just had to make them mine.

And then there's the shoes we got for Steven:

He doesn't take very good care of his shoes. We have purchased "semi-nice" ones before, but after several years of throwing them around, they look horrid! We found these Steve Madden ones on sale...and they are perfect! But of course, he had to have some more casual ones to wear daily to work...hence, the ones above them. A cheaper, more casual and comfy shoe--for daily wear. Who cares if they get beat up? (OK. I still care. But not as much as if they were the Steve Madden's).

All in all...a successful day! I haven't gone to check my bank statement yet, though. Will I still consider it a success after I find out the total of all these wonderful items I just needed to have? We'll see. However, this doesn't happen very often. In fact...I'm more known for picking up things off the clearance rack, and not even taking a second glance at the "new" things you pass while going to the back of the store. I usually end up buying things here & there. I consider myself a BARGAIN shopper. However, this year, for my B-day, I wanted to shop. So I did.

My Second Home- CHILE

2010-03-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

CHILE

My HOME away from home, if you will.

The news is devastating.

My heart is full of sorrow, pain, and yet there is a LOT of love.

Love for the people I knew.

The people that took care of me for so long, that taught me the Chilean way...

How to dance La Cueca, How to properly eat Cazuela, How to be yourself, and how to Love unconditionally...even when you have just met.

The earthquake.

The tsunami.

The tremors that still occur.

The buildings that fell to the ground.

The people who lost their lives.

Out of more than 30 people I still keep in contact with, I have only heard from maybe 10.

Do they not have power? NO.

Are they even alive still? I don't know.

It's killing me not to know.

I wish there was something I could do.

For now...just sit, pray, and check Facebook updates often.

*sigh*

CHILE--I love you.

Weigh-In....NOT!!

2010-02-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

Okay, so like a lot of you, I've been trying to lose weight recently.

Okay, so I really haven't done anything too drastic...I'm just trying to cut back on portion sizes, eat out less, and buy healthier foods in general.

So...this has been since the start of the school year.

August 2009.

Now, it's February 2010. You're probably thinking--WOW! That's 7 months. 10 pounds a month is about average....so 70 pounds.

YA RIGHT.....5 pounds/month is more like it. So....that means minus 35 pounds.

YA RIGHT.....

So, here's my predicament:

Do I look skinnier? NO.

Do I feel skinnier? YES.

How much weight does the scale say I've lost? TOTAL: 12 pounds.

TWELVE POUNDS in 7 months.

That sucks!

I want to do better. But how?

Do I have TIME to get to the gym everyday? NO.

Some days, I am only home for 1 hour in between school, work, music lessons, meetings, more meetings, and what-not. For the past month, I've had to go to physical therapy for my back twice a week. It's been snowing or raining...and it's dang cold. Have I felt like going to the gym? NO. Do I remind Steven every week that this week is going to be different...that I'm going to make time to go to the gym? YES.

So here I am. I still feel LARGE. My clothes fit better, though. I'm able to wear some pants and skirts I haven't worn in a while. So...that's good. Does the scale prove anything, anyway? Well...I'd like it to say that I've lost weight, too. I'd like others to notice that I look thinner...that's ALWAYS motivating and encouraging. But so far--nada.

For now, I guess I'll have to settle with ME being the only one who can see the difference. Is it just ME, or does this happen to anyone else?

- From then 'til now -

2010-02-13T13:10:00.001-08:00

From wonderful parents

to six sisters

and Superman...

From Ruby Tuesday workdays

to Journalism (a REAL job)...

From funny faces

of your former "single" days...

To Russia to serve a 2 year mission for the LDS church...

From watching Sports

to attempting to play them....

then back to only becoming a crazy & dedicated fan....

From big appetites

and crazy voices

to one LONG float trip in the Singles Ward

(can you see me?)

All the way to find ME...

who'd been from college in Idaho

to Student teach in Las Vegas

From a mission in Chile

all the way to mid-Missouri to find YOU.

From dating

to engagement

to the temple

We were destined to find each other.

No matter how crazy our pasts (stretch pants for me, Star Trek uniforms for you)

I'm glad we did what we did.

All of it lead to us finding each other.

Steven, I love you.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Pink

2010-02-05T15:42:00.000-08:00

Okay, I know I've been slackin' and only posting videos lately....but this is a MUST SEE!

The Grammy performance by PINK, herself.

Personally, I love her voice. I love dancing on DDR to her songs. I don't have her CD, but I need to own her new one. I saw her on Oprah today, and it made me go to You Tube today to see for myself what all the hype was about.

My take on it: WOW! She is talented! REALLY cool. The outfit...hey- if you've got it, and she's definitely got it...go for it. You can't see anything. Would I wear it? Hecks no...but I would be tempted if I could pull it off :).

Check it out for yourself, and leave a comment on what you think about it:

a slump....

2010-01-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

Ya, not much to say.

I've been having back issues (again).

I took both painkillers together last night....it was a terrible night!

I've been to the Dr. twice this month.

I finally feel okay.

I go to a physical therapist today.

Master's classes have started again. The teacher is a bit odd (overly-cheery). It's going to be a LOT of reading and projects.

American Idol is still funny.

Any news to share w/ me will only brighten my day/week even more.

So hurry up...post now!

New Favorite Contestant

2010-01-14T06:35:00.000-08:00

SOOOOOOOOOO appropriate for my Jr. High kids!!!

Best of the Night...

2010-01-13T16:09:00.000-08:00

See for yourself.

Whether or not you watched Idol or not last night (Tues. 1/12), doesn't matter. What matters is that you see the BEST performance from Boston, Day 1.

C'mon...if you saw it, you KNOW this one is the best. YET.

Check it out below, for yourself:

MY.FAVORITE.SHOW. EVER.

2010-01-12T14:13:00.000-08:00

Of course....

AMERICAN IDOL!

Love everything about it!

I'm excited about this season b/c of Ellen being on the show. LOVE that woman! She cracks me up! And let's be honest...it needs a new face...they can't frazzle up the stage any more, and we don't want Ryan Seacrest to get any crazier than he is!!!

I'm sad b/c Paula is leaving. Who DIDN'T love all the drama she brought to the show?!!? Her hairstyles made me crack up, and gave me something to laugh about. Her "comeback" as a dancer/singer last season was one of the WORST things I've ever seen on national tv...but was it worse than Adam Lambert's stunt??!! (I'll let you decide on that one).

But, my FAVORITE part of the whole thing happens NOW, starting tonight!!! And it is the auditions! I LOVE the crazies who get dressed up, thinking they are definitely Hollywood material, and get up there and pull some crazy stunts! I know some of them are doing it on purpose, but c'mon...they are funny anyway. If they are stupid enough to camp outside the arena and wait in line for days, just to get their "moment of fame" on the American Idol season...bring it on!

And here are my top TWO favorite auditions:

(1) Leroy Wells: the most incomprehensible of ALL TIME!

(2) Mary Roach--the most PSYCHO contestant yet!

What about you? Who is YOUR favorite?

GOOGLE

2010-01-07T17:53:00.000-08:00

So, I was a BIT bored a minute ago.

I went to GOOGLE, and didn't know what to type in.

So, I hit "I'm feeling lucky"....

TRY IT, and see what happens!

Ready for a GOOD laugh?

2010-01-05T19:02:00.001-08:00

My BIG Project - Christmas 2009

2009-12-28T13:42:00.000-08:00

Some of you all notice my status on facebook a few weeks ago, and know that I've been working on a sewing project. Ya see, every year during Christmas break, I like to take on a sewing project to keep me busy. Two years ago, I made 7 Christmas stockings (for my future kids, too...whenever they decide to arrive...not that I am ASKING for 5, but I made enough "just in case"). Last year, I made curtains. So...this is what I've been up to lately:

Making CUELLOS:

Cuellos translate to "necks" in Spanish. Doesn't really have the "wow" effect, the same as it does in Spanish, but it's fun to say (Quay-yo's). Say it again...CUELLOS. Ya, I told you it was fun!

Anyway, I got the idea when I was in Chile for 18 months, fighting the cold and being outside most of the time walking. Vendors would sell them, but they were small...only enough to cover your neck (hence, the name). But, I wanted a larger one to cover my ears, nose, neck, and mouth. So, a nice friend of mine, Loly (from San Pedro, Chile) made me one and I still wear it! It's my favorite article of clothing, and it goes with everything!!

So, this year, I made one for everyone in my family...20 TOTAL! I know, it took me a few days to make all of them. After 3 days of making one, ripping it up, and starting all over again....6 times....I finally figured out the pattern (thanks to Google search engine, and some creativity).

So, here you have it: TONS of cuellos! I would love to make one for each of you, but sorry...no more time! Maybe next year. OR...maybe I'll go into business one of these days and you can purchase your very own for a small fee! :)

Photo 1 (at top of post):

Several cuellos laid out. This is how I tried to choose a color for everyone. It got kinda crazy w/ 20-something in front of you. The entire floor was COVERED in cuellos! Fun, right? hmmmm...

Photo 2 (middle of post):

This is ALL of them I made. If you got one...do you see yours somewhere in the pile?????

Photo 3(below):

This is what one looks like up close: They are 2-sided, and you can fold it so that it looks two-toned. Very fashionable, eh?! I made them long enough to cover the neck, ears (mostly), the mouth, and nose. They sure are cozy when it is below zero, and very windy!

Photo 4 (below):

This is a picture (although kinda blury) of how you can adjust the length. Just roll up one of the colors, and you don't have to take it off when entering the store! How convenient, right??? It also helps that you don't have to take it off & on all day...it messes up my hair!

Photo 5 (below):

These are completely washing-machine approved! I wouldn't recommend putting them in the dryer very often, since they will probably shrink a bit, and start to get those nasty balls all over the place! But, I wash them with regular laundry and add a pinch of liquid fabric softener to help the static issue, and to make them smell NICE!

Photo 6 (below):

How do they look? Here are some of the family members sporting their new attire, the famous cuello. Just in case you can't imagine how to wear them, here you go (Ollie & Lini)...the first, of my youngest sister, Becca, and her new hubby, Tim...sporting their cuellos while everyone was opening gifts.

The second, of my youngest niece, Katelyn, and as you can see...it's a bit small for her! I tried making some for the nieces & nephews with the "scraps" I had leftover, but as you can see...they turned out extra LONG and extra THIN! not so good....oops!

So here you have it---PROJECT CUELLO of 2009

STATUS: Complete.

Christmas 2009 - Favorites

2009-12-26T16:35:00.001-08:00

CHRISTMAS 2009:

~ My Favorite Thing(s) ~

What was YOUR favorite thing(s) from this Christmas season?

Christmas Goodies

2009-12-24T14:16:00.000-08:00

What is your FAVORITE thing to eat @ this time of year? The ONE thing that you absolutely could NOT do without? Something that calls your name.....?

Christmas Songs

2009-12-23T08:32:00.000-08:00

HERE'S ANOTHER QUESTION TO SPARK SOME CONVERSATION:

(1) What is your FAVORITE Christmas Song?

(2) What Christmas song is your least favorite, and why?

As always, leave your comments, and mine will go FIRST! :)

Christmas Quiz

2009-12-21T09:22:00.000-08:00

Well....I have a few questions for you. Let's have some Christmas FUN!!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

(1) What the ONE thing you want most of all this Christmas?

(2) What is the one thing you are probably going to get, that you wish you wouldn't?

(3) If you had $100 to give to someone this Christmas (other than yourself), who would you give it to and why?

(4) What is on your Christmas tree this year?

(5) Honestly, which do you like better...giving or receiving?

(6) If Christmas colors weren't green & red, what colors would you want them to be?

(7) Do you have a favorite Holiday tradition? If so, what is it? If not, what tradition would you like to start (or why not)?

Put your answers in the comments.

Mine will go first! ha ha.

I know. I KNOW.

2009-12-07T11:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, folks...I'm STILL alive!

I know. I KNOW.

Life has been busy lately, okay...gimme a break!

- - - - - - - - - - - - -

Basketball supervision...sometimes twice a week!

Traveling to KY over Thanksgiving Break...and NO, I don't have any pictures to show. I was too busy actually ENJOYING time with family & relaxing!!

Writing my final reflection paper for my Master's class.

Getting ready for Semester Exams @ school.

Making final preparations for Christmas...christmas tree lighting, stocking hanging, song playing, nutcracker arranging, homemade christmas tree bow fluffing...etc, etc, etc.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I'm sure there is a LOT more to say, but that's about it...believe it or not!

So why then, such a LONG break between posts? Well...for those who really miss me...I am just a busy girl, whose taken some time to stop WRITING so much, and actually READ others blogs and comment on them when I feel so inclined to do so. I have taken a much needed break. I have been working ahead on getting my Mater's class finished up early, so I can concentrate on my students more. I have been trying to work hard at school so I can spend more time with Steven. I've been trying to get the "deals" on my Christmas shopping for this year.

So there is the LONG AWAITED update, ya'll.

Take it or leave it.

That's all I have to say.

Tail-Gate-ing

2009-09-24T15:23:00.000-07:00

How do YOU define "Tailgating"?

Coming from TN, we used to tailgate in High School to all of the football games. We'd all meet at the Minute Mart (or was it Mini Mart?), right down the road from our beloved Clarksville High, and get in one LONG line to go to the football game. We'd have our faces painted, ripped clothing on, posters made, hair up, horns honking, toilet paper/paper mache, painted cars, and lots of YELLING....we were ready to go to the game IN STYLE. Now...the tailgating happened just as it says...we rode in trucks, with the tailgates down, one behind the other. We rode together, tailgate to tailgate until we arrived to support our team! Now THAT is what true tailgating is...to me.

However, this weekend, I went to my first Mizzou Football game, and attended my first ever tailgating experience Mizzou style. Let me tell you something...I was cracking up! This is where we had to park, and we were 2 hours early:

Not even kidding...the stadium is about a mile in front of us! And yes...they even had a bike lane for bikers...but I swear it's for game day...so people don't get ran over!!! So...where does the "tailgating" part come in, you say? ...well, as we headed up the hill, every few cars or so, we'd see a small gap in between the cars (and no...I didn't bust out my camera for a shot or two). People had put out their lawn chairs, plugged in their radios, and busted out their coolers...full of sandwiches and booze! ha ha ha!!! I about died...the whole way to the game we heard, "Hi there! How's it going? Go Tigers! Go Mizzou!" It was quite the site. So, they'd open up their "tailgate" or trunk, and eat outta their car, while enjoying lots of CARS passing them by....(hmmmm...doesn't sound like fun to me...am I missing something, here?)

Anyway, we had on our walking shoes and kept heading up the hill, to meet Steven's work crew (at 10:30am), who'd been "tailgating" since about 8am that morning. At 12:15, this is what they looked like, all drunk & hootin n hollerin all kinds of obscenities:

They were all parked up in the lot next to the stadium...their SUVs had brought all kinds of food & beverages, and everyone was just chillin! You know you're Mormon when the first thing that come outta someone's mouth is..."Hey, Steve...how's it going?...aww, man...I don't think I brought sodas with me....there are just a few waters around here somewhere, though." ha ha ha...at least someone was thinking about us!

Anyway, we went to the game & it was a LOT of fun! We stayed until half time, and then we left. Talk about a strange way to tailgate! But it sure was a good time for good laughs, great fun, and lots of beverages!

New American Idol Judge

2009-09-12T09:53:00.000-07:00

Well, I certainly was nervous about this one!

I REALLY thought Paula was gonna come back to the Idol stage, but it turns out...

I WAS wrong!

Ellen Degeneres....who'da thunk?

Not me.

Well, what kind of credentials does she have? Check out this routine of hers here:

So, what did you think of it? I thought it was really funny! ha ha!

Actually, I DO remember a night when she was a "guest judge" and she was very funny (or wait a minute...was that on dancing w/ the stars? SYTYCD? hmmmm...can't remember). She actually had great things to say, and it was a "night to remember".

This season, I'll certainly miss Paula! BUT, at least we'll get some good laughs outta Ellen.

MY STYLE

2009-09-11T16:15:00.000-07:00

I normally don't do QUIZZES, but in light of my recent & crazy experiences from HELL (with bugs, of course), I ended up taking a fun lil quiz (thanks, Beverly)

Go here to take the quiz.

(ps- if you want to post your results, paste them into a Word document first, then paste them here...just FYI).

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Tamara, you are an Earthy Casual

You're interested in creating a welcoming home where people feel comfortable and happiness flourishes. You appreciate the warmth and individuality of natural materials and handcrafted things and are inspired by colors and forms from nature. You love mixing up different textures and are sensitive to the tactile qualities of objects. Your style is grounded and solid, not flighty or frilly. And you are never taken in by the trend of the moment.

You value comfort. Your home is a warm and open friendly place, and you feel happiest when everyone is cared for and relaxed in your space. Elements like pillows, throws, overstuffed furniture, and good lighting set the mood. You may also enjoy layering different fabrics or mixing patterns to create a cozy effect.

Putting your style to work!

With your style and needs in mind, here are a few tips to make your home a little happier:

1. Your Design Challenge: UNIFY The good news is, you probably have many things you love and have collected, and no one would ever say your home is boring! You've done the hard part; now you just need to pull it all together. If your furniture seems like a mish-mash, unify it through similar upholsters or slipcovers. When grouping objects, try to find something they have in common. If they share a shape, color or material, they will look like a collection. A tray is every decorator's secret weapon for making groups of small objects look purposeful and sculptural. If your accessories are all over the map, try subduing the upholstery or wall color, so your small items are the stars.

2. Your Happy Place Make this room as comfortable and inviting as possible by bringing in some real furniture like an armchair or a sofa if you have the space. A little lamp on the counter or decorative hanging light can set the mood. Stools are great perches and can easily be moved around. Don't forget to bring your personality and style into this room: hang some art or display a collection of family photos in mixed frames. Consider bold, happy colors in the kitchen as well, like brightly colored pots and pans, big bowls for corralling fruits and vegetables, and trays for spices, oils, teas and pepper mills.

3. Be Party-Ready All the Time! Food: Devote space in your pantry or on a shelf for go-to party essentials: crackers, dip, chips, nuts—whatever you like to serve. Keep on hand a collection of attractive bowls and cocktail napkins, and you'll be able to set a spread—instantly!

Drink: The simplest and chicest thing is to have a drinks tray or table always set up. Include a mix of pretty glasses, an ice bucket, a lovely pitcher, and bottles of soda and water. When the bell rings, just add ice and limes.

Mood: Nice, flattering light makes us feel good. So nix the harsh, direct light from overhead fixtures in favor of the softer glow from floor and table lamps. Also, keep some votive candles and a couple of hurricane lanterns for setting around the room.

Scent: The first thing you notice about a home is how it smells. Use naturally fragrant cleaning products. If you find a scented candle or fresh potpourri you love, stock up on it. Any scent you like, whether perfume or linen spray, can be used on upholstery, bedding or just spritzed into the air.

You know your style.

oh. mY. GOsh. GROSS!!!

2009-09-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

It is a three day weekend.

All is supposed to be nice & relaxing.

RIGHT?

Well, mine didn't start out quite so nice:

Imagine waking up to a nice, cool morning.

(*ahhhhhh*)

I thought to myself...I should open up the windows and let some fresh air in as I work on my lesson plans and school work I need to get done this semester.

To my surprise, I went to the computer room and found not-so-cute BUGS crawling all over the curtains, blinds, WALLS, everywhere around the window, in the window, on the sill, everywhere!

GROOOOOOOSSSSSS!!!!!

So, I go downstairs and get out my can of RAID and sprayed the crap outta them! *die, sucka...DIE*...I was literally yelling and getting so excited to kill the dern things, yet I was completely grossed out by the fact that there were literally hundreds of these things infesting my cute lil apartment!

So, while Steven was at work, I decided to drown them in RAID and leave the hideous sight for my husband to see when he got home (I needed some sympathy for seeing such a disgusting site, and taking care of it myself...right?!?!). Well, I just couldn't stand it any longer...I just cleaned it up a few hours ago and found MORE pouring out a small hole in the right hand corner of the window! I couldn't believe it!!

So, for your viewing pleasure (or...just in case you don't believe me), here are the soon-to-be-famous-pics of my not-so-great comedy-tradgedy this morning:

First, the ziploc bag where the "winged ants" will remain, as proof of what I encountered this morning. Apparently, when bug men are called, it's helpful if they have a specimen to work with. Nasty! Whatever...I just did my job. You can thank me later.

Second, the few that came out, risking their lives and mourning the loss of their amigos who had just been put in the ziploc...here are the last brave few who ended up drowning and joining their amigos in the ziploc:

I did it again...

2009-08-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

My hair is almost ALL GONE!

SOOOO..I decided to get it cut & colored before school begins.

Here's how it all started:

ME: "Could you do it like you did last time, only make it a bit darker in color?"

Her: "Well, what was it exactly that I did last time?"

ME: "You know, kind of A-lined, stacked in the back, not TOO short, but longer in the front, and a little off-the-shoulders-ish."

Her: "Oh yeah! Ok, that will look good. Now, you said you wanted to go dark, right? How about a little red in it, too? That will look great!"

ME: "Sure! I love reds! I trust you, so just do whatever you think would be best!"

So...here you have it! 2 hours and 2 1/2 inches later...not exactly what I expected, but nonetheless...
So what do I think about it now?

1. I AM still getting used to it, so I'll let you know in a day or two.

2. Little darker than I expected, although I like the redish tones in it!

3. WAAAAY shorter than I expected.

4. It'll grow out fast...always does!!

5. I HATE the way it smells after it is freshly colored! yuck!

Wonderful time of year

2009-08-09T19:38:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite times of year...and no, it's not because of the weather!

I like it because...

school is over

spending time with friends & family

peaches (and other fruits) are in ripe & yummy

SunShine

swimming

Beaches

Getting a tan

Memories of one of my favorite days

Loads of beautiful lily pads

Visiting Historic Nauvoo

- - - - -

Yes, Steven & I recently celebrated our 2nd Anniversary. It's our little tradition to go to Nauvoo, attend the temple, see the sights, get eaten by bugs, and just sit and "get away" in a small town.

We did a few things for the first time on this trip:

-eat at the most talked out buffet of the Nauvoo Inn. The salad bar is pretty shabby, but the "hot bar" was something to speak of...fried chicken, lobster, fish, delicious cinnamon rolls, casseroles, and freshly cut meats...yummy yummy!

- we drove down Parley Street and read through lots of the names of the pioneers that died on the trek out west. It was amazing to see that there were literally thousands of names!

Well, we didn't take lots of pictures, but I'll post a few to share of our trip. Most of these were made by my "auto-pilot" function on the camera, so they aren't great quality or anything, but hey--they are pictures, right?!?!?!

1. Here we are, relaxing at the Hampton Inn, in Keokuk, Iowa. We had just checked in, and decided to snap a shot before heading up to Nauvoo to do some shopping!

2. I told you...I LOVE lily pads. Seriously, they are my favorite plant. I'd never seen them in person before, until I went to Nauvoo. The road to Nauvoo is right by the river, and you can see these lining the highway for about 10 miles or so. So beautiful, and well worth the trip!

3. Ok, so this area was roped off, and there were bugs EVERYWHERE! Steven was getting nervous that someone would come by and we'd get in trouble (I don't know if you were really supposed to get up in the wagon), but I needed a picture of me in one. So, here it is! Vio-la!

4. Seriously, it took us 10 minutes to get this shot! It was so hot outside, and I didn't have a great place to sit. So, this is the best one...please ignore the messy hair and rolls. Gotta love pics by the river!

5. Souvenirs. Every year, for our anniversary I wanted to get something memorable. Something that would be useful...something that wouldn't rust, die, or collect dust just sitting on a shelf. This has become one of our favorite traditions in Nauvoo--shopping from store to store, trying to find the "perfect" gift for ourselves. Last year, we couldn't find one BIG gift for us, so we decided on two separate smaller gifts, and this year we did the same.

For me, I bought the above...three little iron stars. I will use them to decorate the walls of my home. Haven't decided exactly where yet, but I'm excited to put them some place special. As for Steven, he purchased the book below. He LOVES reading, and has already been caught flipping through the pages.

And there you have it...for better or for worse, our weekend in a nutshell (or blog post, if you will). Hope your weekend was fun!

New Shampoo

2009-07-28T12:24:00.000-07:00

Introducing....

Aveeno Natural Shampoo & Conditioner.

I really enjoy trying new Shampoos. Maybe I'm even addicted. It seems like everytime I get a new haircut (which I need to do soon), I try a new shampoo. The kind I just finished using was Bath & Body Works. I REALLY like their hair care products as well, but they were not on sale this week, so I went to Wal-Mart to check out their selection.

I browsed the isle for quite some time, sniffing and smelling the many varieties they have. This one was the first one that caught my attention, and it's the one I ended up purchasing. I've been using it for 2 days now, and my hair has NEVER been so soft and luscious looking!

The smell...refreshing!

The before & after...amazing!

Try it! You won't be disappointed!

Love that Hair Video

2009-07-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

So, today in my Writing class, we got to spend some quality time in the computer lab. You see, we each have various writing lessons we have to present, and for today's class, we actually got to go and play around in the computer lab. Anyway, we had a pattern poem today called "LOVE THAT" and we filled in the blank.

Well, it's not the BEST creation I've ever finished, but HEY--it was fun. And so, I thought I'd share it with you!

First...the poem!
- - - - - -
LOVE that hair!
Like a pig loves to stink.
I said I love that hair
Like a pig loves to stink.
Love to call it in the mornin'
Love to call it in the night.
I say "Hey there hair!"
- - - - - - -

And now...for the debut of the coolest & most outrageous video EVER:

Oh....I....Wish I were an Oscar Meyer Weiner

2009-07-20T16:36:00.000-07:00

C'mon now....join in with me in singing the HOT DOG national anthem:

"Oh...I...wish I were an Oscar Mayer Weiner

'cuz that is what I'd truly like to be.

For, if I were an Oscar Mayer Weiner

then everyone would be in love with me!"

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Seriously...I used to know a lady who drove a beat-up old van, and everytime we'd ride with her somewhere in it, and see anything related to a hot dog, she'd salute and sing the song. Ahhhh...such memories...LOVE it!

I have actually been past one of their cooporate factories (I guess that's what you call them) and it was really cool. And yes, I put my hand to my forehead and sang the song out loud! It was run!

I also had an experience about a year ago, where one of their prized Weinermobiles (did you know they had a contest several years ago where you could win a day to use the Weinermobile and there were about 20,000 entries?)...anyway, it was parked in a local motel parking lot here in Central Missouri. I again, saluted, sang, and thought seriously about going and parking myself beside the automobile until someone came out to let me take a tour inside.

Some fun facts about the weinermobile: (bet you didn't know these...)

1. In 2007, a Weinermobile driver in Wisconsin was arrested. He had a license plate that said "yummy" on it, and the plate was allegedly stolen. Well, the policeman forgot to look at the fine detail...it said it was a stolen license plate ONLY if it was not attached to a weinermobile.

2. Again, in 2007, a Weinermobile was towed on Chicago's famous "Magnificent Mile" for parking in a "no parking" zone. It's license plate said "WEENR" (I wonder if that is in texting language, or if someone can't spell correctly in the corporate office).

3. On July 17th (yes...just 3 days ago), a Weinermobile crashed into a home in Wisconsin. The driver thought she was going in reverse...and after slamming on the gas (and not hitting the brake quick enough), rammed into a house destroying a garage and ruining the home foundation. Here is a picture of the mishap:

Fun facts about the Weinermobile drivers:

1. They are refered to as hotdoggers (no, I didn't make that up, either).

2. There are seven Wienermobiles in existence currently, with each assigned a part of the country. The hotdogger position of driving the Wienermobile is an open position to U.S. citzens and the duration of the job lasts for one full year: from the first of June until the following first of June.

3. Each vehicle only holds two hotdoggers.

4. Both current hotdoggers and Oscar Mayer recruiters visit college campuses across the country in search of the next round of hotdoggers.Only college seniors who are about to graduate are eligible for applying to this hotdogger position.

5. Currently there are about 500 hotdogger alumni.

Summer so far...

2009-07-15T23:12:00.001-07:00

Well, kiddos...I haven't been on here in a LOOOOONG while, I know! I've just been in the summer rut...and life has been full of meaningless activities. Ok, so a few things have been grand and meaningful, but mostly...just random things to take up time and fill my day with joy.

So, here's my list of summer "fun":

1. Summer school has ended! That was over and done a little over two weeks ago. Now, I stay up until really late (last night was 3:30am...tonight it's already 1:30am). I work on school projects (Steven's at work, so I don't feel so guilty) or just play games on the computer or Wii.

2. Not taking a shower until LATE. This is something that I love doing. I'm not really sure why, either. When I think about it, I feel gross and wonder why in the world I continue to do it. So don't freak out...I just sleep in until 10 (and sometimes 11), work, play, then shower around 3 or 4. Nice, I know!

3. Games, games, games. I am really addicted, ya'll. I just bought a plane ticket to visit my sister and nephews who are in Texas right now and will be leaving in T-minus-two-weeks. And I don't know what I'll do without my favorites: Biggest Loser Challenge, Luxor, Pyramid, Mario Kart, Super Mario 3, & Guitar Hero World Tour. Most of the first games are addicting games on King.com. You can challenge others and play in tournaments. You get "jewels" for playing...I have 998, and I'm still not sure what you actually do with the things. Ya...and you thought facebook applications (farming, scrabulous, bumper stickers, etc) was dumb!

5. Sewing. (the picture above is the actual one I'm working on) This is something my mother taught me to do when I was little...simple cross-stitch stuff. When I got back from Chile, I wanted a really HARD one to do, and something that I'd frame and hang in my home. Well, folks...I can guarantee that it's been hard...so difficult that I only take it out once a year, if that. I hope to finish it by the time school starts back. However, I'm not sure how much longer I can do it...my neck aches, my fingers are tender from being poked so many times, and my butt cheeks hurt from sitting for so long!

6. School. As far as my online Linguistics class goes, I only have my final research paper to complete and the final exam. I've finished the book, done the online posts, and watched the videos and typed up my commentaries...Cha-Ching! So, I don't have much more to go. Next week, I start a one-week intensive writing class. We are supposed to write for at least one hour each night, and bring in stuff to share/edit in writing groups. I've vowed to work on my blog some during that time, and rant and rave about all sorts of cool stuff...so get ready, 'cuz it's sure to be interesting!

Well...that's about it, I guess. I'm off to play a few rounds of Pyramid before I go to bed, then to call Steven and see if he'll sing me a "good-night" song like he did last night.

*I'm so overworked*

Two sweet boys

2009-06-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

These are two of my nephews, Sione & Filipe. They are Marlena's boys. They are so adorable, and they live in Arizona...too far away for me to see on a daily basis. Once in a while, I get to talk with them on the phone, but all we talk about is the "zoon" (zoo), "spida-man" (you know what THAT is), and what they ate for dinner.

I love these boys and wish they lived closer so I could hang out with them more often.

Your Aunt T loves you, boys!

Sione:

Filipe:

Put both of them together &
what a pair of handsome boys!

Crocodile Tears in my Pillow

2009-06-25T19:28:00.000-07:00

What a terrible day!

First, the kiddos at school were terrible!

Second, the Kind of Pop died today, and he is my all-time favorite!

Third, Farrah lost the battle to cancer today. What a fighter!

Time for FUN!

2009-06-13T12:45:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wanted something SO BAD that you saved money for what seemed like forever? Then, when you finally had the money, it seemed like it was NEVER on sale? Then, you thought about purchasing it anyway, but just couldn't do it?

Well, that has been my thoughts lately, until last night.

I finally did it.

I broke down, and bought it, along with another surprise. But then, is it even possible to own the first without the second? No, not in my mind!

What did we buy, you ask?

&
I know, I know...Steven & I are spoiled! But, we sure are having FUN!

good & WORST

2009-05-26T19:54:00.001-07:00

The Good:

This is my 150th post!

The WORST:

This has been a day from HELL!!! A student stole my cell phone today!

So, if you could email me, facebook me, or call me with your digits (I still have the same number...luckily), I'd appreciate it!

Who's your Idol pick?

2009-05-19T15:47:00.000-07:00

ADAM vs. KRIS

Who's gonna win Season 8?
...Opinions anyone?

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

KRIS ALLEN

Things I LOVE about Kris:

originality
has a funky jaw-thing when he sings, but i think it's cool
love the way he can make ANY song modern
plays multiple instruments
very humble
i would actually buy his CDs

My favorite song this season from Kris:

"To Make You Feel My Love"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

ADAM LAMBERT

Favorite things about ADAM:

he's been the one who I picked to win the whole thing from the very start
Gay, NOT gay, who cares? The boy can sing!
Although not such a fan of all the screeches and screemies, he is SOOOO talented
Stage presence
Very polite in saying thank-you to everyone

My favorite song from Adam this season:

"Tracks of My Tears"

Super Saturday

2009-05-16T18:50:00.000-07:00

This is NOT going to be a long post, I promise....rather, a quick update.

Today, Steven & I went as "chaperones" for our 9th graders end-of-year trip to SIX FLAGS in St. Louis. We took off at 8am, and arrived home at 8pm. What a LONG day it was!!!

My afterthoughts:

1. MAN, I'm glad I'm not 15 anymore! WAY TOO MUCH DRAMA

2. They don't make bus seats comfortable enough to ride in for two hours...let alone twice in one day!

3. Funnel cakes are good, but TWO of them are WAAAAYYYYY too much!

4. Not to self in the future: NEVER give a 9th grader more than $20 to spend on a field trip of this sort...they'll just spend it ALL the last 10 minutes and buy stupid stuff: 3 ft long pixi stix, over-sized hairy monkeys, superman capes, large lollipops, enormous turkey legs that they can't finish in time that end up getting passed around the bus, or ANOTHER refill of soda for the ride home.

5. Seriously, riding rides was a lot of fun! Especially when today was overcast until around 2 or 3. Perfect weather for walking, very breezy, and didn't even have to wear sunscreen!

6. Go before Memorial Day, when the lines are shorter, and the water park is closed...no seeing scanky girls in bikinis trying to sneak onto the regular rides.

Hope you all had a GREAT weekend! I'm tired and going to bed, now.

The GOOD & the NOT-SO-GOOD

2009-05-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

Things I need to be grateful for today:

I finally am finished typing my exams
I have my last few weeks of teaching school planned out (sort-of)
Steven & I made the BEST homemade pizza tonight
I went downstairs to find some beautiful flowers today
My Mom & Pop gave me a gift certificate to my Favorite Restaurant...all I have to do is find time to go one weekend
I will be playing the piano at church soon (hint, hint), so that means I get to practice! Back to the 'ol piano! Maybe that means my next purchase should be a Baldwin...whadda ya think?
My Idol pick *Adam Lambert* is in the final 3!
I love watching American Idol on my new t.v.
I'm going to be released from my church duties tomorrow
I'm so busy, I'm actually glad I'm not a *mom* yet!

Reasons what I am not-so-grateful today:

I have sit here at the computer WAY too long today working (NOT playing...ugh!)
I still have to actually TYPE (or record on paper) my lesson plans for the next few weeks
I have a PILE of papers to grade downstairs, and if things had gone according to plan today, they would have already been graded
My kiddos just got done doing a HUGE cultural project involving writing a paper, making a PowerPoint presentation, making food, etc etc etc. Out of the 3 classes I have graded, I have found a total of SIX projects (and they worked with partners) that are completely copy & pasted from an online source (illegal, I might add), or totally copied into a translator and THEN copied and pasted onto the paper. I mean, these are my BEST kiddos (5 out of the 6 of them, that is). I have already confronted 2 of them, and now on Monday I have to go and face 4 more of them. Just approaching them w/o being TOO judgemental is hard. I know these are junior-high kids, and there is a *small* part of me that thinks "maybe they think as long as they put the website on their resource list, it is okay" or "maybe if I only copy every other sentence and stick an AND or BUT in there, it is okay". I really don't know what to think, and I am HIGHLY upset by this!
Steven's arm is hurting again...and we STILL don't know what the heck is wrong with him. One day it's his elbow, the next day it's his wrist, then his knees, ankles, etc etc etc. It's frustrating not being able to help him, and it's even MORE frustrating for him, I'm sure.
MY BACK IS KILLING ME FROM BEING HERE IN THE COMPUTER CHAIR SINCE 10 AM THIS MORNING! (it's now 10pm this evening!)

A new addition to our family...

2009-04-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know what most of you all are thinking...and you thought WRONG!

I am not preggers just yet! he he he

Let me introduce you to the newest member of our lil family:

Samsung 40" LCD TV

Yes, that's correct! We have finally upgraded to a nice boob tube (instead of the rear-projection 20" screens). After doing lots of research for some time, going around and checking out what each store recommends, and comparing deal upon deal, I finally broke down and make my purchase tonight!

And the BEST part about it is:

1. No diaper changes necessary

2. No arguing back EVER

3. It will NEVER tell me no (and when it does, I can replace it quickly)

4. I can still read to it, pet it, & clean it but it might get tricky trying to rock it to sleep every night. But, I'm willing to live with that fact.

5. I can finally watch a movie w/o my glasses since the screen is so large!

6. I got a GREAT deal on it!

just a little update...

2009-04-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

Well, not too much to talk about these days! So, I'll just keep this short, and be happy with posting a simple post!

1. I ended up going to an ENT a while back, he put me on meds for a month, and my dosage ended last week. First 2 days were horrific, now I don't feel so bad. There is the possibility that I might have a polyp in one of my nostrils. I go back to the specialist one week from Monday. Wish me luck!

2. I got the job to teach Summer School. I will teach from June 15-June 30. It is only for 12 days, and I get $2200. Not bad, I know. By the time that taxes are taken out, I'll be lucky to get $1000. But hey, every little bit counts.

3. I got accepted to a one-week crash course in teaching ELLs this summer, which will go toward my Master's class. The option was to either take TWO eight-week online courses (while summer school was going on), or do ONE eight-week during summer school, and ONE one-week course (if I got accepted) after summer school. I am going to do the latter of the two, and so I'm excited for a bit of a break.

4. My kiddos at school are doing CULTURE projects on Thursday (that is the presentation) and on Monday the 4th (food day). They are excited about it, and so am I! We've been a week researching and gathering information.

5. Since all week students have been in the library and in the computer lab doing research, I took the time to write 2 finals for my classes. I got lots of things done which was nice. What's not-so-nice is my TERRIBLE backache I've had all weekend from sitting down too much!!!

6. Sunny weather is great! I took my Advisory classes out to play kickball on Friday, and they loved it. I loved sitting on the bleachers getting a tan.

7. We FINALLY got working Internet 24/7. We ended up buying service ourselves, but it's only $20 a month and is totally worth every penny! Our apt complex is supposed to provide free Internet & cable, but the Internet was always shady. You could FORGET ever using it at 5:30 or later, when everyone was off work and wanted to download stuff and watch movies...it NEVER worked for us.

Hope everyone is enjoying their Sunday! It's time to wake up Steven from his nap, and go eat dinner w/ the in-laws! Chicken, mashed taters n gravy, and a salad...yum yum yum!

My Summer Pledge!

2009-04-12T13:13:00.000-07:00

Spring has DEFINITELY arrived, and with it comes

all kinds of TOES! That's right...some nice, and others...well,

NOT-SO-NICE...

My friend, Beverly took the pledge on her blog, and I've decided to do the same. This is one of my BIGGEST pet peaves. Honestly, I haven't worn sandles until TODAY, just because my toes were not up to par. Honestly, I don't think sandles were invented for EVERYONE (sorry if I've hurt your feelings, but it's the truth)...just like bikinis weren't made for the XXXXXXL lady, either. My hubby disagrees and says he'll proudly show off his ugly feet, just so long as his feet don't sweat in the humid state of Missouri. However, as long as he chooses to "air out his ugly feet", I will choose to comment on them as I please. That's just the way it is.

So here goes...I am taking the pledge...will YOU?

Ladies, PLEASE, raise your big toes and repeat after me below...

The Open Toed Shoe Pledge

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

As a member of the Cute Girl Sisterhood, I pledge to follow the Rules when wearing sandals and other open-toe shoes:

I promise to always wear sandals that fit. My toes will not hang over and touch the ground, nor will my heels spill over the backs. And the sides and tops of my feet will not pudge out between the straps.

I will go polish-free or vow to keep the polish fresh, intact and chip-free.
I will not cheat and just touch up my big toe.

I will sand down any mounds of skin before they turn hard and yellow.

I will shave the hairs off my big toe.

I won't wear pantyhose even if my misinformed girlfriend, coworker, mother, sister tells me the toe seam really will stay under my toes if I tuck it there.

If a strap breaks, I won't duct-tape, pin, glue or tuck it back! into place hoping it will stay put. I will get my shoe fixed or toss it.

I will not live in corn denial; rather I will lean on my good friend Dr. Scholl's if my feet need him.

I will resist the urge to buy jelly shoes at Payless for the low, low price of $4.99 even if my feet are small enough to fit into the kids' sizes. This is out of concern for my safety, and the safety of others. No one can walk properly when standing in a pool of sweat and I would hate to take someone down with me as I fall and break my ankle.

I will take my toe ring off toward the end of the day if my toes swell and begin to look like Vienna sausages.

I will be brutally honest with my girlfriend/sister/coworker when she asks me if her feet are too ugly to wear sandals. Someone has to tell her that her toes are as long as my fingers and no sandal makes creepy feet look good.

I will promise if I wear flip flops that I will ensure that they actually flip and flop, making the correct noise while walking and I will swear NOT to slide or drag my feet while wearing them.

I will promise to go to my local nail salon at least once per season and have a real pedicure (they are about $20 or $25 and worth EVERY penny).

I will promise to throw away any white/off-white sandals that show signs of wear... nothing is tackier than dirty white sandals.

There you have it, ladies. A pledge straight from down south. And you know how we are...just good 'ol picky southerners who don't leave the house w/o their hair done and makeup on. Although I'm not as extreme as I once was (thanks to living in Chile for a few years), I still have to have my toes painted, especially in the summer time. I guess I'll never understand, nor do I entend to try understand, how it feels to show off feet that should be kept hidden underneath socks.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

So which club do you belong to, anyway....

THIS club....with nasty toenails THIS club with dried up toenails & a few funky ET toes

THIS club...of obsessive art & decoration

or THIS CLUB where they just PLAIN Jane

No matter what Club you belong to, I understand that most of us can't change clubs. We are born a certain way, and heaven forbid we try to have plastic surgery on our toes just so we can fit into another category.

All I'm saying, I guess...is that if you KNOW you have UGLY toes, please do youself a favor as well as those of us who are around you, and COVER them up or get a freakin pedicure occasionally.

Me...you ask? What Club do I belong to? I'm somewhere in the middle of the last two clubs...I love to have them painted, but not with lace, jewels, or stickers. I go for natural colors mostly. 2 layers of color first, then a thick coat of "top coat" clear polish. That way, they rarely chip, and the color stays nice and bright for about 2-3 weeks before having to redo it. I was blessed with cute toes (as long as I trim them regularly, and keep them looking nice. My husband (who is sadly a member of the dried up toenail club) , my sister Andrea (who is a crazy member of the funky ET toe club...that's right...her 4th toe is shaped like ET's head) and my mother (let's not talk about HER toes, cuz she's a member of all kinds of nasty toe clubs along with the no-toenail-club) unfortunately were not so blessed in the TOE area. And even though all three of them still wear sandals, I try my best to look the other way before I get too nautious...YUCK!

TESTING SUCKS!

2009-04-03T13:04:00.001-07:00

As many of you know (and even if you don't...you will know when you're done reading THIS)...

I HATE what we are required to do b/c "No Child Left Behind" was put into effect during the reign of our Beloved President Bush.

All week (and several days next week, too), I spend 2 and a half hours with a group of 20 eighth graders, who have a booklet to fill out (and not all of it is bubble-in, either) that is at LEAST 2 inches thick. NO JOKE...it is ridiculous. I could go ON AND ON AND ON about this test, and how there is NO WAY IN H-E-L-L that 100% of the kids in this nation are going to be proficient in Language Arts, Science, & Math. "Everyone" includes special needs children and ELLs as well. I can't even begin to enlighten you on the steam that I have raging inside of me right now.

What's even worse...the daily schedule is ALL SCREWY, and the hour that got short-changed these 2 weeks is first hour, my planning/preparation hour. I can't tell you how frazzled I get by the end of the day w/ all of my classes out-of-order, and with 9 hours straight of teaching and testing. It is just NOT right, and not normal, that's for sure.

On a lighter note, I was sent an email this week that put a small smile on my face, and I just wanted to share with you some of the MAP testing protocol we are asked to observe. Let me know what you think!

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

MAP Severe Weather Testing Protocols

1. Should a severe weather situation occur during testing, please remain calm. To display any kind of anxiety would be a testing irregularity and must be reported.

2. Please do not look out the window to watch for approaching tornadoes. You must monitor the students at all times. To do otherwise would be a testing irregularity and must be reported.

3. Should students notice an approaching tornado and begin to cry, please make every effort to protect their testing materials from the flow of tears and sinus drainage.

4. Should a flying object come through your window during testing, please make every effort to ensure that it does not land on a testing booklet or an answer sheet. Please make sure to soften the landing of the flying object so that it will not disturb the students while testing.

5. Should shards of glass from a broken window come flying into the room, have the students use their bodies to shield their testing materials so that they will not be damaged. Have plenty of gauze on hand to ensure that no one accidentally bleeds on the answer documents. Damaged answer sheets will not scan properly.

6. Should gale force winds ensue, please have everyone stuff their test booklets and answer sheets into their shirts, being very careful not to bend them because bent answer documents will not scan properly.

7. If any student gets sucked into the vortex of the funnel cloud, please make sure they mark at least one answer before departing, and of course make sure they leave their answer sheets and test booklets behind. You will have to account for those.

8. Should a funnel cloud pick you, the test administrator, up and take you flying over the rainbow, you will still be required to account for all of your testing materials when you land so please take extra precautions. Remember, once you have checked them out, they should never leave your hands.

9. When rescue workers arrive to dig you out of the rubble, please make sure that they do not, at any time, look at or handle the testing materials. Once you have been treated for your injuries, you will still be responsible for checking your materials back in. Search dogs will not be
allowed to sift through the rubble for lost tests, unless of course they have been through standardized test training.

Gone to Arizona

2009-03-25T14:24:00.000-07:00

Vacation in Arizona

Just a few pics from my vacation in Arizona...

Some lil desserts that I got creative with one evening. Some strawberry mallows covered in chocolate and some sprinkles...

My almost 5 year old newphew, Sione, with the cutest lil curls you've ever seen! It's hard to get him to smile for very long, so enjoy this hard-to-capture moment!
And here is Sione, again...showing off his cool new trick: blowing BIG bubbles....

SEE ???
And here's Filipe, riding Sione's bike. He thinks he's REAL good at it. Notice his rather LARGE flip flops. Those are his big brother's, too...

Can you find SPIDERMAN in this picture? That is his favorite thing to play with these days...
And here we are riding the Carousel at the Phoenix Zoo...of course, he HAD to ride on the Lion!

Well, all this fun ends tomorrow. SAD! But that was my wonderful, relaxing, and fun little week of a Spring Break.

What about you? What did you do this week?

Still here...

2009-03-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

I'm STILL SICK! I'm sick of being sick, and sick of being sick of being sick!!!!

I am going to visit my doctor today for the 5th time. I have been sick since December, folks. Every time we talk, she says, "Ok, if this doesn't work...I'll have to send you to a specialist." Those days have come, gone, and they're STILL coming. I'm practically begging the woman to send me to someone else. GOSH...do I need to bring a weapon and threaten violence here? C'mon...I need some freakin' relief here, lady!!

Ok, sorry to get so graphic, but here's a rundown of my experiences in a nut shell:

December: I got a mild cold (I thought) and took Sudafed. Two weeks later, I switched to Mucinex. I thought I was cured, but nope--it came back! This time I tried Amoxicilian. Didn't cut it completely.

January: School starts again, and I try Bactirium (I had some left overs). Felt GREAT, but it still came back. I went to the Doctor, and she says "How did you get a hold of so many antibiotics? I didn't prescribe any of them to you..." UGH! That was the wrong thing to say to her. She tells me I have allergies and sends me to buy Zyrtek D. $20 for one week's worth. After finishing it, IT CAME BACK!!!!

February: I go in again to the Dr. and she says, "OK. This time, we're gonna knock it outta the ballpark." OH GOOD!!! She puts me on Levaquin & Flonase. (still thinking it's allergy related). After three days of that, I end up in Urgent Care b/c my heart was beating so fast that I thought I was gonna die. I had gotten 3 hours of sleep or less since taking this last dose of meds that I couldn't take it anymore. He tells me to quit BOTH meds, and gives me some sleeping pills (finally...some results here...can HE be my regular Doctor, please????) So, I quit the meds.

March...My afore-mentioned symptoms come back (original symptoms) and I start doing some nasty saline-rinses in my nasal cavity. If you've ever done this, it works great but it's NASTY as heck! (ps- I even got Steven addicted...he he he). I am totally sick by now, right?!?!?! I have Steven call & cancel dinner reservations for my Birthday, and I end up crying all night. My head hurt, my haircut wasn't as planned, my Master's program was asking WAY to much of me, I sucked at teaching school, I wasn't able to fulfill my church responsibilities...the list goes on and on folks. Now, I think I'm going INSANE on top of all of the sickness!

Recently: Monday I call the Doctor's office, and she insisted it is just allergies. I got a prescription for Allegra D (expensive!) and she says to start the Flonase nose spray again, and do triple dose saline rinses as many times as I can!!! OH MY GOSH LADY! Are you trying to KILL me or what? So, I did that Monday and Tuesday. Last night and this morning I had NO VOICE and I have a hacking cough that when I have a spell...look out folks! Stuff is coming up and out and it's NASTY! My head hurts, the saline now is stinging the living daylights out of my nose, and I still can't sleep at night. I took today off of school, and just talked to the nurse. I'm going in AGAIN today, and we'll see what she says this time.

My Thoughts (as if you haven't read enough already)

LADY, where on earth did you graduate from? Are you SURE you have a degree?
Why am I even still seeing/calling YOU? Aren't you sick of seeing me, TOO? C'mon already and give me a darn referral to bother someone else!
How is Steven even SURVIVING me these days? I'm crying all the time, complaining endlessly, grumpy before, during, and after school, and just a complete MESS.
Constant questions I ask myself: Is school over yet? Is it Spring Break? Am I going to die today? Can I cut off my nose? Is it time for bed yet? Will I get to sleep before 2am tonight? Will I EVER be done with writing papers and reading chapters weekly?

Ok, so after all of that, I don't even think I told you my SEVERE symptoms. But for those of you who are curious, here they are: stuffy nose, sore throat w/ wads of mucous in it, headaches, sinus aches, stopped up & achy ears.

There you have it folks, now who is SMARTER than my Doctor and can heal me? C'mon...I've tried it all. What else is there to lose?

Hair we are.....

2009-03-05T18:20:00.000-08:00

That's right, folks. My B-day is this Friday & I got myself the best present EVER...
a new haircut!Sorry...not a lot of time to chat and write about how cute I feel (or how fat it makes my face look)...but here are a few not-so-tasteful photos taken just a few seconds ago....
Soooooo....wadda ya think?

3rd Night in a Row

2009-02-24T23:45:00.001-08:00

This is the THIRD night in a row I've had trouble falling asleep!

I'm at my whitt's end, here. It is 2 o'clock in the morning, and I just got back from dropping off my sub plans at school. I can't believe I have to take a day off JUST TO SLEEP...who does that, anyway? I have gotten to bed every night at 9pm (my regular time), and I have laid in bed until at least 1am every night. I have tried reading. I have tried music. I have tried TV. I have tried pills. I have tried aromatherapy lotion. I have tried prayer.

What's wrong w/ me? Will this ever end? I NEED SLEEP!

To make things worse, I've been sick with a cruddy crudd since December.

So, tonight at 11:30, I woke Steven up. I was a complete and utter mess. I was balling my eyes out. He's been there & done that (fairly recently). He said a prayer with me, and he went off to the local Walgreens and talked to the pharmacist, who said she'd recommend Benedryl. So, I leave you at 1:51am to try to go to bed. Wish me luck.

Any other suggestions of something to try NEXT time this happens (which will hopefully NOT be tomorrow!!!)?

Inside My Heaven

My New Favorite- Christmas 2011

PROJECT: FAIL

30 Days of Truth: Day 16

30 Days of Truth: Day 15

30 Days of Truth: Day 14

I'm Famous!!!!!

30 Days of Truth: Day 13

30 Days of Truth: Day 12

30 Days of Truth: Day 11

Ahhhhh....CRAZY week!!!

30 Days of Truth: Day 10

30 Days of Truth: Day 9

30 Days of Truth: Day 8

30 Days of Truth: Day 7

30 Days of Truth: Day 6

30 Days of Truth: Day 5

30 Days of Truth: Day 4

30 Days of Truth: Day 3

30 Days of Truth: Day 2

30 Days of Truth: Day 1

30 days of truth

My European Vacay - 2011

Glimpse of Vacay 2011

Places, Places, PLACES

Old School

Movie Must See

Easter Sunday

My Favorites - good or bad?

LOST

OH MY GOODNESS - an update

Tag- you're it!

*Shutterfly Deal*

* New Purchase *

My new favorite...

Seriously? ... SERIOUSLY!!!

Book of Travels

Get two beers and Jump!

EUROPE - Part 5

EUROPE - Part 4

EUROPE - Part 3

EUROPE - Part 2

SOooooo Sorry!

Europe - Part 1

The long awaited day of travel...

Just because I can....

States

What a Day!

FINALLY....a HOME!

Happy Birthday

not-so-fun-SATURDAY

MAJOR Update

HUGE decision

A Day for ME...

My Second Home- CHILE

Weigh-In....NOT!!

- From then 'til now -

Pink

a slump....

New Favorite Contestant

Best of the Night...

MY.FAVORITE.SHOW. EVER.

GOOGLE

Ready for a GOOD laugh?

My BIG Project - Christmas 2009

Christmas 2009 - Favorites

Christmas Goodies

Christmas Songs

Christmas Quiz

I know. I KNOW.

Tail-Gate-ing

New American Idol Judge

MY STYLE

oh. mY. GOsh. GROSS!!!

I did it again...

Wonderful time of year

New Shampoo

Love that Hair Video

Oh....I....Wish I were an Oscar Meyer Weiner

Summer so far...

Shutterfly Deal