Her Five Cents

Sweetness times 2.

2012-01-31T19:33:00.001-08:00

I'm writing about Sadie today cause I'm really struggling with this one. She is somewhat devilish in her ways. Everyday she finds something new to get into. And destroy. Yesterday it was lotion all over the entertainment center. And in her hair. Then later that night it was baby powder. Today it was my favorite John Freida hair product and some other sprays. Everywhere.

What I am thankful for is when she does listen. Tonight she cleaned up when asked and she did it the first time around without having to be asked many times. She loves to share and is her brothers best friend. I'm so thankful they get along. If I think about it, that is a huge blessing. They tease each other but they really really love each other too. They are not one without the other.

She's truly my princess.

Sweets

2012-01-30T18:13:00.000-08:00

I love this boy. He came into my bedroom today and said he wanted to snuzzle with me. We have this book where they say "snuzzle closer". Its a French thing or something. Anyway, he told me the story of the three little pigs. In this story the houses are made always of straw and sticks and a random third item. Today it was heads. "Theyre strong" he said. Then he told me the story of the tortoise and the hare. In that story, a car and a rabbit and a puppy and a Jackson all race. Everyone wins except the rabbit. He tells them this way because dad tells them that way. I told David that its gonna be really interesting when he learns the real versions of these stories. Lol.

I'm thankful for this boy. He's somewhat of the peacemaker in our house. I love his sweet spirit.

Boot and Boobs

2012-01-09T10:34:00.001-08:00

I feel giant. And I am in many ways. We could talk about my boobs or my belly or my boot. All big. This is a B post. Anyway, here is my boot. And not my boobs.

Greasy Hair

2012-01-06T09:14:00.000-08:00

I bet you think I'm blogging because it's a New Years Resolution. But you're wrong. Cause I don't believe in that crap. lol. I'm rood. I've explained this theory to everyone and anyone and someone who will listen. It goes like this.

We have a chance every month, or week, or even day to start over. So what does the difference in a change in the last number of the year make? PLUS it takes 21 days to make something a habit (or break one). So technically, every month would be a great time to start with resolutions. Anyway, there ya go. I read today on my friend Emily's blog something I totally love. Read it here. I want to do those things.

I don't have anything particular in mind that I want to speak of. I was going to share my list of things I believe in. Because I just told you I don't believe in New Years Resolutions and stuff. This will not be my testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, because that is a different subject for a different time. This will be a silly list.

Real quick though. I was talking to my friend about her fear of the dentist and such. She is going to a sedation dentist because she hates dental stuff THAT much. So she had an evaluation sort of appointment and needs lots of work done. So she has to go 2 different times. The first time she goes it will be a 7 hour procedure! Whoa right? So the first thing I thought of? What about the bathroom situation? I asked her if they were gonna put a catheter in. Because 7 hours is totally a long time. Especially when... well you know. Maybe you don't? That's what I'll do. I'll totally make my public announcement here.

I am with child! I posted it in my uber secret blog awhile ago. But I didn't do the Facebook stuff and I don't want to. So if you read this blog, can you not do the Facebook thing? Like ask me those annoying questions?

"How far along are you?" 27 weeks
"Is it a boy or a girl?" It's a girl!!!
"How are you feeling?" Terrible.
"When are you due?" April 7th.

Anyway, so the bathroom situation is on my mind a lot considering my situation. Wow. This is getting really out of hand and off subject. But I suppose i'll tie it all together somehow. Okay, I believe in accessibility to bathrooms. Like all the time. Dumb thing to believe in. So here's a good one.

I believe in the power of positive thoughts! Like totally for real. My sister and I have decided that we are gonna be abundant beeyotches. And it totally works when I work it. The other day we had like 1 dollar in our bank account (oh yeah! That's right now) and we needed some gasoline. Well guess what peeps? I was all thinkin positive and picturing money in our account and such and I found this check for the exact amount we needed, that I had forgotten about. That's right homies. It can work for you too! One of my favorite peeps is Wayne Dyer. He says, "Abundance is not something we acquire. It is something we tune into." So tune into it!

And now I realized I wrote all snobby style regarding el bebe. I'm totally excited and thrilled and happy about it. Really I am. In the past I've been sort of scared and nervous and fearful but not this time. Which is why I think i'm keeping it more quiet this time around. I am enjoying it and loving it. Then I realized today that I'm totally not prepared as far as baby stuff goes. So that's stressful. Anyway, I believe in babies. Totally random way to connect stuff. I know it doesn't go. But I do need to. Go that is. If you know what I mean.

New Series: That Awkward Moment When

2011-11-11T22:12:00.001-08:00

You know that awkward moment when:

You meet a friend of your significant other for the first time and its like:

"Hi. I'm Lisa, David's wife." And she says, "Hi. I'm Ima. Ima Skank. You know, the one that loves your husband?" And then you say, "Oh yes. The one he forgets to mention? Ah yes, I know you."

It happened today. Except not quite like that. We were at the Veterans Day parade at Embry-Riddle (which was really cool by the way) and after it got over, David walked over to greet us. His mom and dad were there and so were his brothers and a sister-in-law. And my mom. And me. And our kids. He walks up lookin all hot and stuff and he sees this girl he knows from his Chinese class. It was clearly the most awkward moment ever for her. She was so caught off guard at the sight of her knight in shining armor (or army greens) that she weirdly stuck her arms out for a hug or something but then maybe realized that he wasn't coming for her? Or something. I'm not sure how that all worked out but it was fuuuuunnnnny to watch. I stood there, being the seething wife. Crossing my arms over my chest. Glaring. Ah, not really! I was smiling the whole time. I was thinking, "what up beeyotch? That my may-un" (gangsta style). I coulda taken her down with a simple chest bump. But I actually felt bad.

It gets better though. I know right? We went to Texas Roadhouse (The Texas Whorehouse) for the free food and so I could judge all the skinny chubis and we saw her there. With her boyfriend? Okay, so I know what you're thinking. 'She doesn't love him if she has a boyfriend' right? Well wrong. I know of/have seen/have met (been?) many a woman who has gone after meat that's off-the-market. I love referring to men and inanimate objects because they do it to us all the time. It's only fair right? Anyway, so we see them. And she's all, "We should all sit together." And I was like "Yeah, we totally should. In fact, you should sit next to him so you can touch his inner thigh under the table." Unfortunately, Sitting together didn't work out. So sad.

Sometimes I forget that my husband is that guy. The popular kid in school. The One Who Everyone Loves. He humbly claims it's not true and then I remind him that I'm not an idiot. And although school was awhile ago, it wasn't THAT long ago. I remember how those rules work. It's okay, I won.

MW3 say what?

2011-11-10T09:51:00.001-08:00

"Remember when you used to have to blow into the Nintendo game even before you played it?" I heard this on the radio just before they played what they called a "Generation X" tune. It was Natalie Imbruglia (one of my favorites!). The announcer also mentioned Sonic the Hedgehog and the Sega. Oh my. I had one. I want it back.
Apparently this really fancy game came out a couple days ago at midnight. MW3 or something? Let me look it up. Yes. Modern Warfare. It has something to do with Call of Duty which are both things I know nothing about. This game is "the most anticipated game of all time!" Whoa. That's sort of a big deal.

I feel so behind the times. What happened to Pac Man (my hubby and I still have contests with this one. He always wins) and Mario? Now it's only cool to wear the paraphernalia.

Do you remember when you and your bff would play Super Mario Brothers and Duck Hunt like all day long? I was never cool enough to own my own Nintendo so I would always go to my friends house. Sometimes she would let me be Mario but most of the time I had to be Luigi which meant going second. And she was always better because obviously, she could practice more.

And then do you remember when Super Mario Brothers 2 came out? And then 3? Wow! The graphics were uh.maze.ing.

When I got older I was lucky enough to get a Sega Genesis for my birthday. It came with Sonic the Hedgehog. I played for hours. It's still my most favorite game ever.

This is not to say that I don't enjoy modern video games. The other day my sister and I gallantly played Just Dance 3 which was almost brand new then. Our favorite was this one below. Just picture this: me and my sister. Dancing. To this. While my mom and her hubby watched. It was hilarious. And really really fun.

I got to hold the controller. Cause apparently I'm a better dancer. I'm not sure about that at all, especially in my old age. I should be grateful she even let me hold the controller right? One day I'll get my Sega and my Wii and I'll share it with the world. Wanna come over and play?

You'll Probably Want to Hear This

2011-11-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

This is a voice message from work I dictated for your viewing, reading pleasure. I wish you could have heard it. I included all of the pauses just. like. she said them. (This one is especially for you Emily. You've got a hubby in the business. lol)

"Hi uh this is Jane Dumb calling. my number is 555-LAME. Um they did come and pick up the trash today however. Uh, it again, only half of the. trash. got emptied and im, im, thinking cause I watched the truck uh today, i'm thinking that they're, when they grab the the trash can they're grabbing it very high, so when it goes to the top of the truck to be emptied only a small amount of it the trash is coming out. I checked to see if any of the trash is stuck or anything like that. and it is not, so that is why I think that the fact that the truck is picking up the trash uh rather the trash can, too high, that when they bring it to the top of the truck, the trash can does not tilt enough to empty the can. and you can see it evidenced by the incredible scraping on the side, one side, of the trash can that were not there before. SO um, I don't know. If you need to talk with me. that's fine. um bye.

So there you go.

People are idiots right? Like thats a pretty fair statement. I especially feel like people in this town and area are kind of lame when it comes to complaining. I feel like all they have to look forward to is calling and harrassing the trash secretaries.

This lady called today and she was complaining about a driver she saw who had his daughter on his lap. And she was hanging out the window (the daughter, not the complainer although that would be awesome). BUT she couldn't see the driver because he was behind the girl who was hanging out the window? That's weird. Anyway, I tried for several minutes to explain that garbage trucks steering wheels are on the OPPOSITE side of a normal vehicle. I said to her, "What side of the truck was the girl in?" And she said, "The drivers side." lol. Goob. And it's pretty funny because this drivers daughter is not super young. Therefore it makes it more awkward that he would drive with his mature daughter on his lap. I love people.

What i'm super duper sick of lately is people calling and having me repeat the same thing. So this lady called and was like, "Why is my bill $41 instead of $45. So I explained to her the reason (she had gotten a smaller can, and already paid for the bigger can). I went through it in DETAIL! I promise I did. At the end of the phone call she was like, "So where did the $4 come from?" Really. REALLY she said that. True story.

Yesterday a man called pretty upset that he got a bill with a stamp on it saying that he was late. He was seriously furious about the fact that we send out postcards for bills because apparently, he didn't get his prior months. And apparently, this has happened before where his bill gets lost in his catalogs. I told him we could mail him a letter. I had a 10 minute conversation (similar to the one above.) repeating over and over how we could mail him a full size ("you mean, an 8.5" by 11?") piece of paper, in an envelope, with a stamp even. Seriously, check my phone records. 10 minutes people.

Oh my, I could go on and on. Can you pray for me that I don't lost my patience? I've got to remember to keep a list of all of these stories. But for now, I've got another work issue to deal with. Hackers....

Hey Dad

2011-10-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

With death comes reflection. I know guys, it's a serious one.

I'm mostly reflecting for my mom-in-law who has lost both a brother and a mom very recently. I am not sure how she still functions. I guess with the hope we have it's understandable. But it's still so hard.

So then I get to thinking about losing my own dad. I don't know why, but I feel this sort of entitlement from losing him. As if I understand what it's like for someone else to lose their own parent when really I have no idea. But I think what I get, is the sadness. Regardless of expected or not, it's still super duper hard.

Tonight Jackson was watching a show called Mighty Machines. It's kind of a neat show. The episodes are full of big moving things in different capacities. There's boats, and fire trucks and tractors and diggers and backhoes and all those things I don't know the names of. We happened to be watching one on snow plows and such. Jackson LOVES this show which is a little odd only because it's not something I would expect a 4 year old to like. David said, "He is definitely your dads grandson." And then I thought for a few moments about that.

How it would be if my dad were still here. How he would probably LOVE to sit on the couch and watch that show with Jackson. Because my dad loved his kids and he loved his grand baby (the only at the time was Emilee). It kind of makes me sad.

So this post is my sadness post. Usually I remain really positive about it all. Because I know deep down that my dad is SO much better off where he is now. We went through his stuff after he died and there were MANY medical notes from doctors explaining his need for a wheelchair. I never saw him in one. It was as if he were trying to keep it a secret that he was in so much pain. But he did write in his journal about how it was hard for him to do even the most simple of things.

I opened my dad box today. The shirt still smells like him. I open it very rarely to preserve that very smell.

There is a letter I'd like to share. My dad tried for many many years unsuccessfully to apply for disability. The fact that I still have this letter says something too. (I've shortened it. It's 4 pages long!)

To Whom it May Concern:

Please be advised that I am writing to certify to you that Ron Schultz is permanently and completely disabled from performance of any of the most sedentary tasks because of the following severe and serious conditions. I will detail clinical means, which enable me to reach these conclusions.

The patient has a number of severe orthopedic concerns.

Bilateral feet; the patient was born with severe bilateral club feet for which he has undergone a number of procedures including 6 surgical procedures on his right foot and seven on his left foot.

Although he has had significant procedures on his feet he has not been relieved of constant disabling foot pain. This pain is bilateral. This is aggravated by even the shortest of walking or standing. He has numerous scars and significant deformity of both feet.

A second orthopedic issue is his right hip, which has had a total hip replacement. He underwent right total hip arthroplasty in 1998 at the age of 43. This was done secondary to severe degenerative changes in his right hip. Although the procedure was performed technically well Ron continues to complain of right hip pain and inability to ambulate significant distances. The hip combined with the feet provides Ron very little ambulatory capacity.

A third orthopedic issues is his lumbar spine. He has had chronic pain for a number of years. It progressed to the point of intolerable discomfort. He has had significant treatment with conservative care including medication, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy on several different occasions, home exercises, water hydrotherapy and a lumbar stabilization program. He has undergone lumbar discogram showing concordant pain concordant with his MRI of degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine. He has had the inability to perform even menial tasks secondary to his lumbar pain.

A fourth orthopedic issue in his right shoulder. The advanced osteoarthritic changes have produced bone on bone x-ray images. He has undergone subacromial decompression with mild improvement initially but eventual degenerative symptomatic changes. He recently had a significant hematoma evacuated by his right shoulder. This was in August of 2002. He continues to have significant shoulder complaints and problems. Range of motion is reduced and motion causes significant pain.

A fifth issue although not orthopedic is his cardiac status. He has had a mitral valve replacements. In conjunction with this, he also underwent pectis repair with placement of rods and eventual removal of his chest rods. Significant surgical scars are evident on his chest. He takes Cumadin currently for his cardiac status.

The last issue is bilateral knee degenerative changes. He has undergone several arthroscopic debridgement of both knees and told by his orthopedic arthroscopist that bone on bone conditions exist in both knees and that he will eventually have to undergo bilateral total knee arthroscopy.

Because of the above-mentioned serious conditions, which are totally supported by, accepted clinical methods I conclude that Ron Schultz is totally and permanently disabled and unable to return to gainful employment even in the most sedentary type of conditions. His condition if he tries to work can realistically be to result in increased further incapacity. Safe time factors for sitting and standing should be kept under 15 minutes. The same restrictions also pertain to standing and walking. Certainly no activity involving lifting and climbing, walking should be undertaken.

Sincerely,

The Doctor

What surprises me most about this (or maybe not) is that my dad didn't not want to work. He loved construction work. He MORE than loved it. It was his passion. So he did it even though it's probably what caused so many issues for him. I think it got to the point for him though, that he just couldn't do it anymore. And finally, after years and years and years of constant pain he applied for disability, was turned down many times, and go it eventually. Just before he died. Sad.

Anyway, this post is mostly for posterity. I just want to remember all these things and keep them in my heart (and on this blog).

What's On Lisas Phone: Toilets and Trucker

2011-09-02T23:13:00.001-07:00

Jared (boss) said even before I saw this happening that Trucker (cat) is half dog. I believe him now!

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When Shopping for Incidentals Becomes Fun

2011-08-24T21:44:00.000-07:00

When you is po folk, the silly stuff becomes exciting. Like shopping for necessities.

I got to do that today.

Well see what happened is, every semester David gets a stipend for book money. It's supposed to stay on his school ID card but he's pretty much won everyone in that school over with his charm so they gave him cash dollars. He didn't buy books, we bought baby wipes.

What a thrill! I'm not even saying that sarcastically. I've been using my stash of travel sized shampoos to get me through until we got a few extra dollars to spend on stuff (full size bottles of shampoo and toothpaste!).

So I shopped my little heart out today (and I did it at Target!!!). It was FANTASTIC. Seriously.

Target and Incidentals are a few of my favorite things (raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens are now on the WAY back of my list).

Let's talk real briefly about my love of Target. You know about my Targasms don't you? If you don't, learn. And use the term. So I had one today. And I feel happy. I'm even going to the gym because of it. I know right?

Being poor isn't so bad. It causes so many things to happen! There's gratitude in the simple stuff for one! And two, you get skinnier because you can't eat. Except in my case. I just eat more of the disgusting stuff. People were concerned for me today because I had Ramen. But it was delicious and nutritious because there were eggs in it (thanks E. Holdy for the recipe!).

Anyway, I'm so excited to now report that we have baby wipes and dish soap. It's a great day. I also had to purchase some schooleo stuff. And that's ALWAYS a blast. Mmmm... happiness is in the isles of Target.

I cleverly titled this picture "Loot" cause that's what it is. And yes, I did buy the expensive mousse (i've been using my travel size of that too) because my hair deserves it. Otherwise it wouldn't look like

this. Wow. I'm really boasting right now. It doesn't even look that good up there. you can see the frizz. Oh well. Anyway, whatever. You get my point. I am gonna go gym it up. And then come home to a shower full of shampoo and body wash. SO excited.

Sensitivity doesn't always have to be about teeth

2011-08-23T23:54:00.000-07:00

I think I need to tell you something.

Sometimes when I read something on the F-book or on da blogs, I get this burning in my heart to go an a rampage. It could also be the hunger in my belly. But whatever.

There's been a stir in my world of online networking. Some people post some hate stuff and then people get all worked up and then there's fights and what-not.

Then there's some blogs I just.can't.read. People post their opinion of stuff without realizing who their audience is. Now listen, I am NOT all about censoring but I think as a normal, functioning human being it is our job to be aware of our audience. It doesn't always change things, but it maybe helps put thoughts/words into perspective.

I think this might be a little controversial. Because most of us write the way we write on purpose without care of offending. I only hope I can get to that point. But right now I still don't say the eff word the way I'd like to because I know that all my church peeps read this blog. It bugs. But these posts I read? They say things like, "I am right and better than you because I dress my kids well." No really. It's pretty much crap like that. I don't think I'd ever do that (even though I am better than you because my husband and I try to match on Sundays. lol lol lol. Joke).

I don't even get my own point. I think what I'm trying to say here is that I hope I'm never that goob that thinks I'm holier-than-thou. And I hope that I do become the goob that is eventually comfortable enough in her own skin to write bad words freely. And I hope I'm always a little bit sensitive to my readers and if I'm not, I hope you'll tell me so!

Until then, I effin love you.

Friends on the Phone

2011-08-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

All things I've heard today

Customer: I would like to discuss when ya'll are gonna pick up my trash.

Me: He'll be there today.

C: Okay well I set it out last night. And I've been out here just waitin. He hasn't been here yet." (it's 11:52 a.m.)

M: You mean you've been waiting all night? We don't offer 24 hour service. Just kidding. What I really said was, Well he isn't finished yet. If he hasn't been there at around 3, give me a call and we'll take care of it then.(all said with a smile so I sound happy to be listening to his um... silliness?)

Another one

Customer: I have 2 cans and I'd only like one.

Me: Okay. When is your pick up day?

C: Tuesday

M: OKay. You have a couple options. You can leave one can out tomorrow OR after we dump them both on Tuesday, we'll pick one up then.

C: Okay so I should leave the full one out there tomorrow and he'll dump it, then remove it Tuesday.

M: No, we don't have trucks that go out tomorrow in your area. You can just leave it there full and he'll pick it up.

C: So I should leave both cans out tomorrow and he'll dump one and take the other one?

M: No. You can just leave the full can and he'll take it.

C: I think I'm misunderstanding. Should I leave both cans out there?

M: No, please just leave one can out.

C: Then he'll dump it and remove it?

Was that not super confusing? She was super super lame.

Another.

Customer (who speaks in an british accent): I dahmn neuh threw thees bill away. (okay, it's too hard to try and spell like they talk.)

M: Sorry about that.

C: I get enough junk mail as it is. Is there any way you can not put advertisements on the back of your bills?

M: How long have you been a customer with us?

C: 5 years.

M: Well we've been doing the advertisements for over a year now.

C: I almost threw it away.

M: We'll send your bill in an envelope then.

Another:

C: I'd like to discuss my account

Me: Okay.

C: I didn't get picked up on Monday.

I proceeded to explain that with new customers (which is what he is) we give them 15 days to pay their bill (we bill in advance) and then set stop service because we have several people who sign up and take advantage of the fact that we don't require a deposit or sign-up fees.

C: Well I guess I've just never run into this before.

M: Oh you haven't? You mean you usually sign up for other utilities and they don't require a deposit or some kind of payment? You usually get a month free before you have to pay? With APS they didn't ask for a $250 deposit? Or at the water company, I believe it's $75. That's interesting. Hm.

No. I didn't say that stuff. But I wanted to. I used my fake nice voice that I used with everyone these days.

Is there ANYTHING else I can hear complaints about today? Gross. Vomit. I hate everyone. I wish I could list some of the positive experiences I've had thus far. But I got nothin.

UPDATE: Customer that had 2 cans and wants to go to 1? She called back. She couldn't remember whether I told her to put her can out tomorrow or on Tuesday.

UPDATE: Caustomer that called about 2 cans and couldn't remember whether to put it out tomorrow? She called again. She asked if the can needed to be empty or could it be full? Wow.

IBS

2011-08-17T16:02:00.000-07:00

Who else hates to go emergency poo? Don't pretend like it's never happened to you. I'm the only one brave enough to talk about it.

Everyone poops.

Your mom? She poops. Your dad? He does too? The president? Yup. Spiritual/religious leaders? They all go number 2 as well.

So how come noone talks about it? Besides breathing, it's the one thing we all DO in common. Instead of "How are you?" we should say, "How are your poos?" lol. Just kidding. But kind of.

Anyway, I saw in this magazine the other day,

The Fully Automated S400 Washlet / Toilet by Toto

"Furniture Fashion usually reviews much more glamorous seating arrangements however we find ourselves giving the people what they want and often need, a toilet. The Toto S400 Washlet represents the ultimate in clean comfort and convenience with an automatic hands-free flushing system, and a sensor-activated lid that automatically lifts as you approach the toilet and lowers as you walk away. This fully automated toilet is equipped with front and rear washing, warm air drying with variable temperature setting, automatic air purifier, heated seat, and wireless remote with LCD screen. The hands free Toto Washlet is designed for convenience as well as enhanced sanitation and even features a super slick surface to resist against staining and assist in the cleaning process."

Source: furniturefashion.com via Lisa on Pinterest

So when I have to make those runs (pun intended) to the potty, why not go (pun intended) to it in style?

What's On Lisa's Phone

2011-08-08T23:36:00.001-07:00

No one likes the kitty on Facebook. I hope you love him here. Does this work Jaime?

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To Do List and Love

2011-08-04T17:45:00.000-07:00

Mostly, I'm bloated. It makes me cranky. I gave myself and a friend a to-do list. On it were things like

1) Write a blog
2) look up a vacation where we can meet (like a cruise)
3) take a myspace pic and send it to someone

4) Spy on all ex lovers

5) Use Spokeo.com

Well I did most of them (all within the afterhours of work. So like 15 minutes) okay, all of them actually. Except the vacation one. Because she did that part. Do you wanna see the Myspace Pic? I'll post it. No I can't. Because I did it at work and I think my boss reads this blog. And that might be uber-embarrassing. But you can text me and I'll send it to you!

Anyway, I feel all sorts of crazy emotions right now.

I'm surprised at how many Mormon girls are slutty skanks. It's very interesting. I don't know if I grew up in a home where it was overly-pushed on me or what, but I would never would have dressed the way some of these girls do. I mean, where's the modesty nowadays? And if you know me, you know that it's even a big deal I'm saying that because I'm the most liberal Mo you'll ever meet. I'm all about living/thinking "outside the box". So the skanks I'm talking about are really pushing the limits.

I'm talking about a see through t-shirt with a bra underneath. Like on purpose. Not only is that way 80's, but it's ugly. And whore-like. Gross. I'd rather see her wearing white leggings with panty lines. Ew.

So whatever. There's that.

And then I'm all feeling nauseous at the fact that women I know personally are married to gargoyle chauvinistic men. Gross. See. All of these things make me want to vomit in the trash can. Well that and my stomach hurts. I hope I don't forget to do spell check on this blog. Because I just spelled a couple words i KNOW are wrong.

I started this post on David and I's? My's? me's? whatever... relationship. I was trying to explain it to ~~these certain crap-talking people~~ the blog world so they would understand it. But I can't really do that. Although I'm trying and i'm the process. So I hope you look forward to that. Apparently people don't get that you can really have a relationship based on mutual understanding and respect. Where there is a father/dad who can take his children for a FULL DAY while the wife/mom plays. And that you can have a man who actually cooks meals AND CLEANS! Whoa. But then I might have to realize too that I have a man who is an exception the rule I think. He's perfect. Sorry ladies. Gross. That's vomitey too. The bragging goob stuff. Anyway, he sort of is. In fact today, he sent me a picture of my sandals that he fixed. Which means he probably sewed them. I know right?

I"m gonna go before you come after me.

250 Posts and Missed Calls

2011-07-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

I can always tell what kind of day it's going to be based on the number of calls I get.

When I come into work I look at the answering machine. If that little red light is flashing, I know it's going to be an okay day but it's questionable as to how okay. Then I look at the number. If there is 1-2 messages, it's an "okay but eh... there's probably going to be some issues." If there is 3-5 messages, its a "everyone wants to complain and I'm gonna hear about it" day. Beyond that, I should probably give up. Those are the days where I hear about how terrible I am, and this company is, and our drivers are, and how we are just trashy people. Funny right?

Generally speaking, the people that call and leave messages are, how do I say this nicely, idiots? Yeah. That's a good word. Today this lady called and left a message and said "I'm calling to pay my bill and it's 8:25....." as if I am supposed to care? She was saying it all surprised-like. Because apparently I'm not allowed to NOT answer the phone and I'm definitely NOT allowed to go pee. Rood.

It's surprising how busy I am. You might think that wouldn't be true at a garbage company. But with over 3000 customers (whose majority seems to be 60+ years old, or maybe they all just act that way), it's busy! Busy! I think when you are of that age, the highlight of your day is calling the utility companies to complain and be rude. They've got to get it out of their system somehow right? Do you hate me for not enjoying old people? Cause I sort of don't care. I only care because I like you and I don't want to hurt your feelings. Or your Grandma's.

Then there's the personal phone calls. I always base my day on how many collection calls I get before 10 a.m. On average? Let me count. There was only 4 yesterday. That's pretty good! Listen, I pay my bills. Just not right now. Stop judging.

Anyway, that's all for now. I have messages waiting.

Dr. Pepper is The Doctor.

2011-07-18T13:13:00.000-07:00

I'm watching my nieces/nephew today. The oldest says to me today, "Why are you wearing a Dr. Pepper shirt?" I replied that it happened to be the one I picked out of my drawer today. She then asked, "Do you drink Dr. Pepper?" and I replied that yes, I did. She then said, "I didn't know you drank Dr. Pepper". It was sort of hilarious. Because she was saying it as if I were a serial killer and she didn't know it. Like it was some startling revelation. She explained that in their family they aren't allowed to drink caffeine. Which I totally get. I let my kids drink Diet Coke and look at them now. In fact, Jackson is a Dr. Pepper baby and then I was converted to Diet Coke and thus Sadie was the Diet Coke baby. Does anyone want to study the effects of dark caffeinated beverages on kids whose parents drank with babies in the womb? I volunteer. My hand is raised high.

I remember when I was like 13 I decided to quit drinking. Soda that is. I was in 8th grade and I remember walking to P.E. with drink in hand. I took a sip of that Dr. Pepper from the can and it tasted soooo good. then I remembered my goal. I felt SO guilty. It was only the first day!

My grandpa had a storage room FULL of soda. I'm not kidding you. There might have been a vacuum or two in there but it was packed from ceiling to floor full of Pepsi and Dad's Rootbeer, and Sams Choice soda. I was a 6-pack-a-day-er. No kidding. And I was 10 and 11 and 12. What a life I had. Those are some of my best memories. A hot summer day, friends over, soda in hand, and a swimming pool outside. Occasionally, he bought us those giant packs of candy. My drug of choice? Purple skittles. AN ENTIRE pack. Like the giantest ones that you always want to buy at Costco, but know you'll regret later. I got that. I was probably the kid on the block that everyone hated. We always had good food. Except for the bratwursts grandpa kept in the produce drawer. I never did try one. I wish I would have.

So anyway, I blame my addiction on him. It's a legitimate excuse right? So the purchase of this Dr. Pepper shirt and my love of bubbly beverages and chewy candy is not something I can even control. It's inherited.

Knowledge is Power Apparently

2011-07-14T16:46:00.000-07:00

So if you think you know stuff, you don't! There will ALWAYS be someone who knows more than you. EW. Which is stupid. Because we all have DIFFERENT knowledge. For example, you don't know what it's like to trip up the stairs while holding a bag of potatoes. Oh, and.... neither do I.

This came from Facebook. It's an actual conversation (status) between people I know. And try and get past the spelling. It almost drove me to jump off a cliff. But I managed.

S: is this love ? I sure hope it is :D

Amber: Your too young:) lol

Heidi: ‎:]

T: S you have no idea what love is

S: T you are 12 so shut your lips

T: hey your only what 16 so you need to shut yours this is only a page in your life. oh and i know a lot more then you think i do, and if your so big on knowing what love is tell me

S: im ok im not arguing with you im done

T: done with what‎?

T: i just dont want you to get hurt cuze trust me nomatter what you will never be strong enuf sorry if i was rud but i want you to mack it throw life without that mistak i love you (like a sister)

S: i ♥ you too but i do kno more then you

T: then tell me i want to know

T: i'm 13 and thank you i've learned a lot from my 8 sisters

Me: I want to get in on this fight.

Okay! So did you sort of understand it? I know it's hard with all the uh, spelling issues but I'll save that for Lessons in Grammar and Spelling: How to Use the Ends of Words (enuf, kno, rud, etc). Anyway, these girls are very different. T is so mature for her age, wise beyond her years I think. And S, does have more "experience" if we're speaking of actual age. So who's right? I can't say. I was debating back and forth on whose side to take and then I realized that they're both right, in their own right. And plus? How the heck do you measure knowledge?

At what age, and point of knowledge to I get to stop being called "hun" and do the calling of? Should I be grateful that these people think I'm young enough to call me that? Or am I offended because it makes me feel like i'm 14 and talking to a chomo?

Today at work some lady was explaining what a crappy person I was because my driver didn't pick up her 4 extra (LARGE) bags of trash. I told her that I could send the driver back if she could put the bags inside the can. She said to me "These are 55G bags hun, they aren't going to fit. They are just as big as the can.". Um lady, I know how big those bags are. They're as big as the bags I'm gonna throw at your house. Or as big as the bags under my eyes from listening to you complain. Our cans are 96G. So use your muscles and squeeeeze. because that's the only way you're gonna get your trashy trash picked up. That's what I wanted to say. But didn't.

How rood.

Twilight > Harry Potter

2011-07-12T19:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Annie, I hate to do this because I absolutely agree with your stance and I feel like a super-traitor and all with the upcoming movie and what-not AND because I'm reading the 7th book right now AND because i'm going to the movie at midnight oh one, AND because I made a shirt and will wear it BUT, SOMEONE has to stand up for Twilight. So here ya go. :-) (it was secretly REALLY hard to find even this stuff. lol)

Hiatus Say What?

2011-07-05T01:40:00.000-07:00

You've probably been wondering where I am. Or, you probably haven't. You probably haven't even noticed that I've been missing because your Google Reader does all the work for you. Lazy bums.

It's been a whirlwind of a ride. Oh geez, not another cliche. But whatev. Anyway, blah blah blah, David's been gone for 23 days, blah blah blah. And I've sort of been working on this other project for him which I will someday unveil to you. It's not necessarily secret, I just don't want to put forth the effort to tell you about it right now.

However, I do want to tell you a few things.

Number one, my teeth are gritty and I don't want to brush them.
Number two, secretly, you don't like brushing your teeth 3 times a day either so stop lying about it.

Aside from that, here is your obligatory Happy 4th of July. I'm feeling rather unfestive considering my situation (my husband is in the Army and is gone for training). You might think that I'd be all patriotic and what-not. But I have a feeling I'll have plenty of that to come. I think what it is is that I got exhausted the moment I THOUGHT about going out with 2 kids by myself. Yeah, I know right?

I DO have a "Thank You" sticker with a flag in the background in my purse from Em's mom. Does that count? I might even stick it in my window or something.

I'm overly emotional at this moment because I had to say goodbye to my sissy today. She left for Utah to start a new adventure. I am so excited for her but really sad for myself. I love her tons and tons. And since she doesn't read my blog, I'm going to post a picture of her and wait for her to call me and yell at me. But again, I think it's super cute. When I was going through the pictures on my camera this one totally caught my eye. She looks like my little sister in this picture instead of my younger sister. You know what I mean? It takes me back to days old.

I love you sis, Rosacea and all. lol.

My sweet sissy is super unselfish. She'll give you everything she has and not think twice about it. You know that guilty feeling you get when you borrow or take something from someone? Well she has this magical way of making you NOT feel that way. If I could give her anything in return, it would be confidence in herself. She's got SO much to offer and I wish I could instill in her that belief. Maybe that's what Utah will bring. Utah, can you do that for me? (Utah as in, a general sense. The people, the life, the everything). Oh wait, but if you do decide to become Mormon sis, don't be one of THOSE ones okay? You know those ones that I won't say out loud but you know what I mean?

Ugh, change is so hard. And I sort of don't like it. Good luck sister! I love you! And so does God! And Dayne! And Sadie and Jackson and all your Facebook friends. lol.

Anyway, that was serious business. I'm off to dreamland. ew. I hate that cliche too. Gross. But I love you.

Theme song?

2011-06-12T20:30:00.000-07:00

Don't be mad that I'm only posting this video. And don't be mad that it says beeyotch.

I have to keep reminding myself
I'm not like anyone else

Surround yourself with friends
Who only call you a superstar

The sky is the limit
And I just wanna flow
Free as a spirit on a journey I'll go
Cut the strings and let me go
I'm weightless, I'm weightless

How to Survive in New York City

2011-06-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here in Paulden Arizona with the wind and the dry heat and the lack of people and guess what? New York City is buzzing! I keep thinking how the Subways are still stopping and going and stopping and going even without me there. One is probably arriving right now at Court Square. Another is probably leaving Grand Central. And there's probably even one at Bedford/Nostrand Ave.

I've been back for 3 days now and I'm still tired! New York City truly never sleeps! In fact, half of the days we were there, I didn't go to sleep until 6 AM! And that's normal!

There are things I wish someone would have told me before going. I've decided to record them here mostly for my own sake so when I return again next year I'll be prepared.

1) Buy the week long pass for the MTA Subway/Bus system. At this time it's $29 for one week unlimited rides.
2) Do the guided tour stuff! It's worth it. Otherwise a lot of time will be wasted wandering aimlessly. Which is not a bad thing in our case. Because we met LOTS of people.
3) Don't talk to everyone, especially the drunks/druggies. We spent some time trying to teach Mariah that she didn't have to engage all the people that tried to talk to us. lol.
4) Ask the locals for directions. That way you don't look like an idiot.
5) Bring Tom's shoes. They'll save your life.
6) Don't buy the $6.95 map they sell at the station outside of the airport because you can get one for free from the actual subway people.
7) You CAN haggle the people at gift shops. Sneakers.
8) Eat the 99 cent slices.

I wish I could go in depth about everything we did. You would be BORED out of your mind. I will tell you that we met a lot of famous people. I'm pretty sure I talked to enough famous people that I am considering myself famous now. I have the HOOK-UPS!

We did NYC pretty perfectly. We did a few touristy things and a lot of local stuff. We took a bus tour all around Manhattan (upper and lower), did a pedi-cab in Central Park and spent the rest of the time figuring the city out on our own Chevrolegs (holla Chels!).

I can honestly say that we didn't meet any rude people (besides the ace hole kids who threw rocks at us for walking too close. This was in Brooklyn so I'm not counting it.). In fact, a few of the people I met I would like to keep in touch with for forever!

We had the privelege of attending a funk show at a local (and pretty popular) place in the lower east side. Sullivan Hall is the name. It was pretty much my favorite evening of the whole trip. The band was so amazing and so was the energy! Everyone was dancing to this 11 person band which is awesome considering other shows I've been to where you're lucky if you have that crazy girl up front just tryin' to show off. No, no no. EVERYONE busted a move and it was FUN music. Not creepy, grind up on you kind. I was sweating and loving it. That's my kind of work out.

So anyway, I won't bore you with more stuff. Until later. Check out my Facebook album for pictures because you know you won't see them here (slow computer remember?). And if we aren't friends on Facebook, there's a reson for it. lol. Rood.

Birth and Pain

2011-05-31T23:05:00.000-07:00

For all you brand-new or about to be brand-new moms out there- This is for you. And for Jackson.

He's 4 today...the little human that came out of my body. I was gonna say vagina, but that wasn't true for me. Do you remember my birth story? I wonder if I have it somewhere. It's not here. I started this blog AFTER he was born. Hmm... wonder if it's on M-Space. I'll go look there too. I found it. This is from June 7th, 2007:

Current mood:content

So… have you ever noticed that some people are really good writers? Have you ever noticed that I am not? I enjoy it anyway. I wrote long novels and it makes me happy.

I have pretty much been on hiatus since May 31st, 2007. I'd like to tell my story.

Having a baby is hard. No one tells you how hard it really is. I am going to write the book on babies being hard work. I think it will be a best seller.

David and I decided that we would go through with my induction scheduled for May 31st at 7:00 a.m. So May 30th was a regular day. I went to State College to get a camera. Mutual was that night. It was a good one (go David!!). I was feeling really nervous about the whole labor thing but was really excited as well. We tried to get to bed early that night realizing the next day would be a huge one. 11:00p.m. rolled around and I was finally able to get to bed. Well, don't worry at 1:30a.m. Baby Nickle had it in his mind that he was gonna come when HE wanted to and not when the doctors wanted him to. My water broke! I shot out of bed thinking I wet my pants. But no, it was definitely something else. Seriously the worst experience of my life. I showered, we tried to hang around because my contractions were not bad but I was too nervous/anxious. We decided to head to the hospital. Coming off the elevator at the hospital, I stood there crying like a 4 year old who just peed her pants because there was nothing I could do about the leaking fluid down my legs. Gross.

I was contracting and dilated all morning but I was not progressing much. So around 2 or so, my midwife came in to check me again and found that there was another sac of amniotic fluid which she thought was preventing baby from coming. She broke it, and checked again. She was then realized baby's position was a little off. She decided to call the doctor in. He came in and checked me as well. Yes. Lots of fingers in my vagina = not fun. He explained that baby was brow presentation. David explains this a lot better but basically, he was not coming out the right way. There were a lot of risks if I decided to try this vaginally and so he recommended a C section. Because of the way he was laying, there were risks of his neck muscles tearing, or my uterus exploding….etc. Sounds dramatic right? After taking the birth classes, the one lesson I remembered most was to go into labor open minded because you never know what could happen. Definitely a true statement. I decided to not take the risks and have the C Section. While reading all of the labor books, I had skipped over all of the parts about C Sections, thinking I would not be having one. Well I did.

Its crazy that after all of the above went down, it was seriously an hour later that Baby Nickle was born. What a roller coaster! I don't even know what to say. So much happened in the course of two days. It was insane.

It took us until the last day we were in the hospital to name him. Jackson Chase Nickle is the name. I'm so glad we decided to wait until he came out to name him. Jackson was not even on the list. It fits him real well though. He's so super cute. 9 pounds 3 ounces. I'm openly glad I did not have to push that through my vagina.

The first few days were the hardest ever. I'm so thankful for Shannon. Seriously. We would be dead if it weren't for her. We were so silly to think we could do the first night at home, by ourselves. This is a good story. So it's 2:30 in the morning. I decided to take the Pain Pump out of my stomach. It's this device that sent pain medication through two tubes attached to my belly. I pulled the first one out fine. The second one though, was a lot more difficult. It was stuck. It hurt too. So I'm sitting there crying, baby is crying, my boobs hurt like hell from breastfeeding and so did my stomach, incision, brain…. Etc. Finally, David said he was going to call Shannon. I definitely did not object. Yes at 2:30 in the a.m. She lives 30 minutes away and still graciously came and rescued us that morning at 3 a.m.. We would have been dead and our child left parentless if it weren't for her. Thank you!

I also have to say that I have the best husband ever. He is a GREAT daddy to our little guy. Previous to this, he has probably changed 5 diapers. I would say if I didn't know, that he is an expert now. He's so amazing and natural at the whole thing. It's actually crazy. I feel a little overwhelmed at the newfound love I have for him since Jackson was born. I can't talk about it much otherwise I start crying… and it's a waterfall.

I've been so lucky. I have the best friends ever. Although I was not able to enjoy the focal points provided by Jenny, I was able to enjoy the delicious meal I made out of the Jolly Ranchers she brought. Jenny and her goody bag saved the day!
I have to apologize to the friends I have not responded to in a week or so. It's been a little crazy. I am super excited for this new challenge and I can now say (at least for today) that I concur with David when he said that he sees the light at the end of the tunnel. It's the little moments (and the 3 hour stretches he gives us of sleep at night), that make it all worthwhile. Don't worry, I'm still writing the book of babies being hard. For now though, I'll just write this blog.

Because this is a long enough post, I'll save my reminiscing of this sweet boy for tomorrow. Happy 4th to my Chicken Nuggle.

Just Pictures, Nothing Else

2011-05-23T16:20:00.000-07:00

This is the best we could do of Easter. They DIDN'T want pictures taken that day for some reason. Or ever. lol. Jackson is so shy of the camera lately.

I might be more apt to place pictures on this blog if my computer wasn't so dang slow. Seriously? This post really took me 20 minutes? ew.

A Season for Bragging

2011-05-10T18:56:00.000-07:00

After several grueling months of school, ~~I'm, we're,~~ he's finally finished. This means there will be no more statements like, "I can't, I have homework tonight" or "I'm gonna be home late". It also means I will not have to be a single mom anymore AND it means that I have a husband to do chores. For example, he is currently outside building a chicken coup. Earlier today we did grocery shopping. Yes, WE. Yesterday he watered the plants, and I got to go to the gym. It's weird, this normal lifestyle. It's mostly me being spoiled.

But then, there are days like today where I wish he was back in school. David came with a trait that runs in the family I think. It's called teasing. It's not the kind of teasing that makes you feel bad, it's the kind that makes you want to punch him in the stomach.

We went to the store today. I was gathering items that were of great weight in the freezer section (giant Stouffers lasagna anyone?). David decided to leave me and frolic up to the dairy area leaving me stranded with frostbite and arm fulls of vegetables and bad-for-my-kids corn dogs. So when I finally caught up with him I said, "I feel angry that you leave me behind like that." So guess what he does next? He trails behind me the rest of the way making smart little remarks. And by trailing I mean that he doesn't stay farther than one foot away. After about 6 minutes of this I was wishing that he had Army class like he normally does on a Tuesday afternoon.

Sometimes I get fed up with it enough that I wrestle him to the ground (not in the naughty way you're thinking) and take my aggression out in breathing my bad breath on him. That's gross. But it works. He'll try and tell you he can get out of my mad moves but it's not true.

Even with all of this I still want to brag about his hard work. Even with all of the irritation and anger and frustration of long days and absentness, I'm super proud of him for all his hard work. According to him, good grades don't come naturally so you can imagine his thrill (and mine) when he checked (a million times over and over until they came in) his grades and saw this:

Yay!

Something Beautiful

2011-05-05T23:29:00.000-07:00

I've said it before and I'll probably say it a million more times. I have this intense desire to write something beautiful. Not something disconnected and raw and uncombined. But something that flows and is descriptive. I have a couple people that I am lucky enough to know who write things so amazingly. One is here. Another can be found here. And another? Right here. And I know these people. Well I used to know them in real life and now I only know them through their writing which makes me lucky and them, well, great writers (and great people).

Maybe if I spent more time analyzing my choice of words or using Shift F7 or actually thinking about the words I'm writing I might get something beautiful out of these posts.

Maybe I could talk about something actually beautful. Like a blue sky or raindrops or the beach or a sunset or my kids faces when they sleep. Maybe then I would have a beautiful blog post.

What makes a post so wonderful? I would venture to say it's the choice of descriptive words but you know what? It's not even that. It's the way certain people write. It's like their words melt in your mouth. Or like reading a published book. I love that. It makes me feel fancy.

Until I get there, I'll just keep writing. My way. :-)

Oh, and watch this video. Or listen to the song if you haven't heard it. It's not Eminem. Don't worry. :)
It's by NeedtoBreathe

My eyes are still burning

2011-05-03T23:38:00.000-07:00

My skin is hot thanks to the sun. It's fiery and tight and hard and hurting. Why doesn't it feel dry? It always feels like plastic for the first day. I feel sort of like a Barbie. Or maybe what someone with Botox feels like... if they were to get it in their arm. And chest. Okay, and my lips. Oooh and eyes. Ouch.

BelleMarie Designs came up with a "Wedding in a Week" today. It's actually a "Wedding in 3 days". But we did it. And BelleMarie is mostly just my good friend Tierra Belle and Me. Me Marie. So then I added our middle names together and it might be our future business. I hearby declare it copyrighted.

And it's not really finished yet. The wedding is tomorrow but we threw together a fabulous set up, tables, centerpieces, etc... all in one ~~day~~ afternoon. Again, we still have tomorrow. I can't wait to share pictures with you (Tracie... don't judge. lol). Mostly I'm just proud that we seriously got it together in this one day.

Our bride is super excited which makes this project all that much more exciting. It started out as something small and then sort of evolved into a "I'm inviting everyone on Facebook" event. So that's where we came in.

This will be perfect for our portfolio. The hostess of the event actually came up with the "Wedding in a Week" name. I like it. And I like Belle. Because she is whiter than me. lol. She actually burned less today. We'll see tomorrow though. At our yard sales, she took first place for most fried skin. But I think I won today. I'll save my love for her for another post though. I don't want to forget all the things we discovered we have in common though.

Here are a couple from today:
1) I think she likes curly fries just as much as I do.
2) We both have books/boxes full of souvenirs from our (seperate but around the same time) Nauvoo trips that we haven't put together (we don't have real souvenirs because we didn't have money so it's all the free crap gathered along the way... fliers and cards and brochures).
3) She speaks mumble and so do I. We get each other! It's really fun to watch people try and interpret what's going on when we get exactly what it is each of us is saying.

A Post About Eminem

2011-04-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

I keep meaning for this blog to be my fluffy one but there's so many things I want my little world of people to know.

Eminem.

Ell Em En Oh P.

Okay so I haven't always been a fan of Slim Shady. But who didn't know the words to that song "Will the real Slim Shady please stand up?" I remember making jokes about it in high school.

One of my most favorite performances can be found below. It's mostly edited. He does say the D word. And other words are implied but he edits them himself (it's live). If you have an extra 5 minutes, watch it. These are my 2 favorite songs.

Just in case you didn't hear them, here are some of the lyrics:
I'm not afraid to take a stand
Everybody come take my hand
We'll walk this road together, through the storm
Whatever weather, cold or warm
Just let you know that, you're not alone
Holla if you feel that you've been down the same road

Yeah, It's been a ride...
I guess I had to go to that place to get to this one
Now some of you might still be in that place
If you're trying to get out, just follow me
I'll get you there

And I just can't keep living this way

So starting today, I'm breaking out of this cage
I'm standing up, Imma face my demons
I'm manning up, Imma hold my ground
I've had enough, now I'm so fed up
Time to put my life back together right now

It was my decision to get clean, I did it for me
Admittedly I probably did it subliminally for you
So I could come back a brand new me, you helped see me through
And don't even realise what you did, believe me you
I been through the ringer, but they can do little to the middle finger
I think I got a tear in my eye, I feel like the king of
My world, haters can make like bees with no stingers, and drop dead
No more beef flingers, no more drama from now on, I promise
To focus soley on handling my responsibility's as a father
So I solemnly swear to always treat this roof like my daughters and raise it
You couldn't lift a single shingle on it
Cause the way I feel, I'm strong enough to go to the club
Or the corner pub and lift the whole liquor counter up
Cause I'm raising the bar, I shoot for the moon
But I'm too busy gazing at stars, I feel amazing and

(chorus)
I'm not afraid...

Anyway, my point in sharing this is to show that people can change! I chose Eminem and this performance because he is an extremely passionate artist. Whatever he writes/raps about, is always done with a lot of gumption and energy. I appreciate that (I also really like the drums in this performance). It probably seems really strange, but listening to this song really empowers me! I can change too!
And... With my post regarding music choices, I thought this might fit as well. :-)

I'm Full of It Today

2011-04-18T23:12:00.000-07:00

Jackson had a few accidents today. Not only in his Pull-Up, but in life. He dropped my debit card down the door. And then when we got home he accidently slammed my arm in the car door. It hurt. And I was sort of at the end of my rope. I rushed inside to my bedroom and cried. I cried not only because my arm hurt but because I hurt. In general.

Jackson walked in and was crying too. I know he felt so bad. He said, "I so sorry mommy." We hugged and I told him I loved him. I apologized for getting upset with him earlier in the day. He said, "It's okay mommy, don't cry." We hugged again and he pulled back and with his pointer finger tried to put my mouth in a smile. Then he smiled a cheesy smile him self and said "Like this." He apologized a couple more times and I got more snuggles.

It was very sweet. A lesson for me.

In Dare's Sunday School they talked about becoming as a child. They read, Matthew 18: 1-6, 10.

1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?

2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,

3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

I wrote my sister today and said, "God hates me". She asked my why. I told her bad things kept happening to me. And that I was feeling sorry for myself. She responded, "None of what went wrong is Gods doing. God doesn't find joy in hurting his children. Nor would he make bad things happen to them."

I get it God. I'm thankful for my accidents and lessons today.

Stupid Id's

2011-04-17T19:35:00.000-07:00

I basically want to poke people's eyes out. Or throw rocks at them.

Yup it's anger time.

Normally I would save this anger for secret blog but some of my readers are the people, or married to, or in a relationship with the people I want to gouge. I also happen to be riled up about something completely unrelated to this subject but that's being saved for my uber private blog.

I'm not sure if I should go teenage angst style and write general I-hate-stupid-people comments or if I should get specific about the rudeness of the idiots i'm talking about.

I'll go general. Ish.

People who talk about other people behind their back should be more careful who they talk to. I believe there is a Justin Timberlake song that says, and I quote,

"What goes around, goes around, goes around

Comes all the way back around
What goes around, goes around, goes around
Comes all the way back around
What goes around, goes around, goes around
Comes all the way back around
What goes around, goes around, goes around
Comes all the way back around"

Yeah. I'm pretty sure that proves my point.

Just because I listen to Katy Pery and Ke$ha (with the money dolla sign don't you forget) doesn't mean I am a devil and that I am going to hell. Sometimes, I even buy the edited version of the songs.

I may not be the Mormon they think I should be, but we are all just people tryin' to make it in this world. In fact, I think of these specific people whenever I am updating my status or posting a blog. Which is absolutely ridiculous. I wish I could be public to everyone but people with judgement on their brain.

Oh wait, I judge too. I'm just more secret about it. Except right now. And in blogs past, and when I yell about it.

What to wear to a military ball

2011-04-11T15:19:00.000-07:00

David and I went to Prom for our 2nd time a couple nights ago. It was fancy and crazy and fun.

I didn't know what to wear. I've never been to a military ball, let alone one where I knew I was going to be one of the oldest guests. I stressed out over long or short, floofy or straight, black or pink, etc...

There were girls there with all of the above and I felt silly for stressing out over such a minute detail. Some girls wore skanky things, and some wore long and elegant and covered up (probably because it was snowing outside! Weird!). There was one girl who wore a silky orange tight fitting dress which was actually really pretty but I think she should have worn some of those suck me up panty hose because her butt, albeit in shape, was jiggling around and if I was staring, so was everyone else.

I ended up choosing a long black number (ha ha ha. I love that I just said that) . I wore a sleeved jacket over it and I think I fit right in. But what did stand out was my boobs. I can't help it.

So... about the ball.

They made us line up according to the guys last name. Then we entered the ballroom one couple at a time, ladies first, and were greeted by special guests of honor and the super higher-ups. We were fed down the receiving line, with each one telling the next who we were. They were all surprised that I was a "Mrs." and not a "Ms." There aren't too many married people in the program. They boasted about David and his accomplishments, and bragged about how great he was.

We stood in front of our chairs (at our assigned table) and waited for the guests of honor to be seated. We sat and then immediately stood again for the posting of the colors, a prayer and the toasts... which were really fun. 7 different ones to be exact. Here's an excerpt of the toasts.

"Lasies and Gentlemen, I propose a toast to the greatest fighting force in the world, The United States Army" to which we would hold our glasses of melted ice water and say "To the Army". The final one was my favorite. "Ladies and Gentlemen, I propose a toast to the ladies" to which everyone responded really quietly "to the ladies" so some high ranking guy made them all do that again. It was fun.

They had a roll call of the brnaches which is something I don't know how to explain because I don't know what it is. The hostess called out some dates and names and some people in the audience called out some saying or something.

We ate. Or I should say everyone ELSE ate. We all had little colored pieces of paper to indicate whether we wanted chicken, or steak, or veggies, or salmon. Well, our table was one of the last to be served and apparently, (these are exact words) they "ran out of steak, but have top sirloin". lol!!! This was said after everyone who wanted steak, was served chicken. We asked about the other table and why they were getting "top sirloin", and that was the response. One of the girls at our table said "I just don't get how he could have said that with such a straight face". Everyone at our table was being really nice and waiting for me to get food and THEN the same waiter said, "We ran out of food." I'm not kidding. He really said that. So after another 10 minutes they brought me out a concotion of pasta and veggies which was actually really good but you could tell it was their way of putting together something after running out of food. Apparently they didn't get the memo that we were coming. lol.

After dining, we had a guest speaker, sand the Army Song, retired the colors and then danced!

There was a live jazz band and they played swing and other songs like Etta James "At Last" and we just danced the night away. We were some of the best swingers there. We get that from all of our training at Stake Dances.

We sat down to rest at our table and the seat next to David kept filling up with people who couldn't wait to mentor, or discuss, or talk to David. He was Mr. Popular for sure! His good friend came and sat down next to me and told me of how this often happens. People seek him (David) out to mentor him because he is the rising star. He would be really embarrassed if he knew I was saying this. I think it's sweet though. So one person would leave, and that seat would immediately be filled.

His drunk captain announced that they could retire their jackets or something and that was sort of the announcement that we could leave if we wanted to. He came over and spoke to me with alcohol breath and said funny things. The hot seat (next to David) was empty and we decided that might be a good time to leave.

It was such a fun evening! So next time you have to go to a military ball, don't stress over what to wear. Stress over what NOT to wear. lol.

I appreciate pictures, but not a thousand of them.

2011-04-05T22:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes.... (this is a secret coming out).... I skip through peoples blogs if there are Soooooo many pictures. I can only take 70 pictures of your daughters missing front tooth.

Am I rood for saying that? Maybe it's because I am jealous because I never post any pictures here. Which is weird because we had a family activity last night and I totally posted pictures last night, after it happened, that same night, on our Nickle family blog. Too bad it's secret because i can't even prove to you that it's true.

Why am I so bad at it? I think it might be that I am afraid people will judge me if my pictures aren't "perfect" so to say. I feel like they have to be the "right" ones or people will think I'm a crappy person or something lol.

Also, the keyboard I am using is sticking and I am soooo irritated about it.

Also, i am working on Jacobs Senior pictures that we took like 2 months ago. don't worry, if you ever want us to take your pictures, I promise I won't take that long. Unless you are family. lol. Sorry Steph and Jacob and anyoen else we've done that to!

do you see all those mistakes above? I don't even care because I HATE this keyboard.

I wrote in my journal blog about my day today. It was really lame and wonderful all at the same time. I am at the library because my husband is awesome. It was much more poetic the way I wrote it in the other blog.

My friend is moving here from NY and I am excited because we are going to have accent days (she doesn't know this yet but I know she'll go for it). We'll have gangsta day, and British day, and southern country day, etc. You can join in if you want to. It's probably gonna be a club. On those days, we'll speak in that accent and only that accent. We are also starting a Non-profit organization. We need peopel to get involved but I'm not ready to publicly announce anything. If you are interested, let me know! It's gonna be good and we're gonna make lots of money. oh wait, it's non-profit.

Wow. i am reading through everything and it's so crappy. It's like a ten year old wrote it. No punctuation and terrible grammar and bad everything. I want to write something poetic someday. Speaking of poetic and really smart writers, my brother-in-law is uber smart and he has a blog now. You should read it. It's REAL smart. You can read it here. If there is no link over there, that means he texted me and told me to take it down because he is just that smart that he doesn't want anyone to know.

For now, I will go. Here is a picture. This is Sadie on Mascara Sunday. I've told you about that right? How she loves makeup and glamour and beauty. Well, this is beauty. lol

A Post of Love (sort of really sappy)

2011-03-28T10:02:00.000-07:00

My hubby is the one who told me that the first line of a book is the most important. He also told me he hates the way butter feels on his fingers. He's also a musician, bilingual, a teacher and occasionlly a doctor. lol.

It's been 6 years since we tied the knot in Mesa, Arizona and 5 years since my dad died. This is always always always a weird time of year for me. I say that every time. I won't bore you with more on those feelings.

We spent the evening at Murphy's restaurant in Prescott, AZ. We've never been there together. He enjoyed a full rack of ribs and a shirley temple and me a steak. A delicious one served with au jus and horseradish. And garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus, and salad and bread. Carb overload anyone? Delicious! Over the course of the evening we talked about how we hate good waiters (because that means having to leave a good tip). We talked about our hostess and how I cheered with her sister, of the coolness of the restaurant with it's vintage appeal and coat racks. We held hands on the way out of the restaurant and he opened the door for me. We saw a movie and I fell asleep (only for a few minutes) on his shoulder. He drove home, and I took another nap. He filled up my tank so I wouldn't have to the next day when he knew i would be going out. It was a very sweet evening. Some might call it boring, I call it romantic.

6 years is a long time! Where will we be in 6 more? in China somewhere? New York City? Boston? Maybe right here in Paulden who knows?

Marriage is hard. Everyone who's been married knows that. Until more recently I never really agreed with that saying (that marriage is hard) because we always had it pretty easy. We get along, hardly fight (always because he is SO patient with my neurosis) and laugh together. But things. Things get in the way. I totally get why people choose divorce. I don't really blame them. But I love this man more than anything and would never want to be with anyone else. Which means lots of work and lots of love. Lots of arguing and lots of laughter.

When I was in college and he was on his mission there wasn't a day that went by that I didn't think of him. EVERY day he was in my thoughts and prayers and I always hoped that I would spend the rest of my life with him. I always secretly deep down knew I would be with him. That doesn't mean there weren't other distractions. But that is another post for another time. We met when we were 14 and married at 21. That's a lot of time to get to know someone and I'm so grateful I have.

Here's to 6 more years and 6 after that, and 6 after that, and 6 after that.........and infinity after that.....

Will I Ever Miss the Days of Vomit and Poop?

2011-03-09T21:34:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. The time where kids are sick and laundry is rampant. It seems only yesterday I was posting about Jackson projectile vomiting. This time it's Sadie. It's so very sad but so very great because she lets me hold her. Most of the time she wants nothing to do with snuggling.

This post was written awhile ago. But I want to post it anyway. For my record. And I have a picture. this is how she fell asleep that day. She did not move even once from the couch. I'm serious. She was on the couch all day long.

What I Love Four

2011-02-14T21:43:00.001-08:00

Okay so the picture isn't the exact thing I love but it sort of ties in.

I love spaghetti! Like 150 percent. And tonight, for love day we made some. Like homemade meatballs, and everything. It was my mamas recipe (1lb ground beef, 1lb sausage, 2 beaten eggs, 1/2 onion chopped fine, and 1/2 cup bread crumbs) Yum!

Its my favorite food. And we even enjoyed this special meal with sugar free juice in our wine glasses. happy v-day!

So the picture. Its linoleum from my childhood home in Utah. The same exact kind! It also happens to be part of the flooring in the new pizza place right here in Chino Valley! Its a small small world. It seriously took me back to days of spilt Kool-aid and homework at the kitchen counter. That kitchen is also where I got the scar on my eyebrow that you can still see. Anyway, I love spaghetti and I love linoleum.

What I Love Three

2011-02-13T20:29:00.001-08:00

Cupcakes by Karen. She made these for me for a baby shower. Everything is edible! See that orange baby in the corner (bottom left)? Its chocolate! a choclate edible baby. The cookies were delicious. And you should've seen the cupcakes with little baby quilts on them. The time she must've spent. They make me so happy.

Not only did she make these for me, but she gave extras to my kids (cookies and candy) 2 valentines cupcakes for my mom, me, Darrell and David. THEN we got these beautiful flowered ones (mom and I). Love her.

I started working with Karen when she was called to my activities committee for church. She has been nothing short of amazing. I am so thankful to have her in my life and as a friend cause I definitely have the hook ups if ya know what I mean. :-)

What I Love Two

2011-02-10T09:28:00.000-08:00

You think im crazy because I love laundry huh? Oh wait. I dont. I love fabric softener. I just threw away my 2 other empty bottles. I hoard them like Im starting to with my candles (which by the way I got 2 more of! The smaller ones are 2 for $10 at Bath and Body right now. Go. Get some). :-)

When I was in high school, I had a boyfriend whose clothes always smelled good. It wasnt cologne but I couldnt figure out what it was until his mom told me. Fabric softener! Not sheets (like we used at home). So now I go fancy style and buy liquid. Because it lasts longer than 5 minutes after the clothes are removed from the dryer. And it makes my whole house smell good when I do laundry.

So I totally didn't get the concept of fabric softener until later in life. That you don't need sheets AND liquid. Just one or the other. No one ever told me. I think I had to read the label.

My favorite softener is actually the simple pleasures line but I had a coupon and it was on sale (the regular stuff pictured above) and I got it at Target which means it was actually just the regular price at Wal-Mart. But whatever. I love Target. It's worth it. I wish that Downy was paying me for all of this product placement. Or I wish they would at least send me free stuff. Until then, I'll keep buying anyway.

I Am Copying Someone Else

2011-02-07T20:04:00.000-08:00

My friend is doing this thing where she is posting things she loves for this lovey month. I didn't even ask permission but I'm gonna copy her anyway. I think I'm even gonna post pictures. Yay! Not professional ones but just ones.

(cell phone picture)

It's gonna seem silly but I am loving these 3-Wick Candles. I am normally a scented oil kind of girl but I got the above pictured candle on super clearance and have bought 4 more since (in my defense, one came from Goodwill, completely unused!). The others have all been purchased during the semi-annual sale, etc. Although I think I might go as far as to spend $20 on one. I want the Eucalyptus Mint one. Real bad. Plus, they last like 60 hours. And I love them. I don't know if it's the winter time or what, but mmm... they make me happy. Right now I have the Pineapple Orchid, Autumn Apple, Cherry Blossom, Sweet Pea, and Fresh Balsam (which smells EXACTLY EXACTLY like a Christmas tree. Oh yes.).

Anyway, Happy Month of February Love and I invite you on behalf of my friend and I to join in the Lovey-ness. What do you love?

Moving Around

2011-02-02T17:28:00.000-08:00

If you look at my past posts, you'll notice a pattern. Well, a lack thereof. That's because there isn't one. And I sort of feel like I need some direction.

So I'm taking one. Direction that is. Is that even correct grammar? Or English I mean?

The last 200 and some odd posts (222 to be exact) have been somewhat sporadic in nature and I want order. So I'm changing things up a bit.

From here on out, this blog is going to be my family/fluffy blog. The one where I post pictures and snippets of our family life. This will be the address I give to family and friends who want to know what's going on and not necessarily what I'm feeling about work/life/depression etc.

I am making the other blog private ( I hate that) until I'm ready to reveal myself to all the world. If you want to know where I'm going, e-mail me (lisamarie333 at gmail dot com) and I'll maybe send you an invite to the privateness. I feel weird that I've decided to do this. I'm sort of unsure of it all, but I think it's time.

If you are wondering why I'm doing this it's for a couple of reasons. 1) I haven't found my place yet and I'm hoping this will do it. I read others blogs and they have an audience. They write about certain stuff and they aren't afraid to do so. I need that. I need a blog where I can write all my negativety/sarcasticness down and not wonder/question myself after I've posted. I want to know that the people who read what I write actually know what I'm talking about and don't think I'm silly, or too open, or whatever. And I always wonder that here. Because it's so ... out there.

I feel like I'm going against everything I stand for by doing this. But again, it's sort of just a test. And I'm allowed.

Poop and Doughnuts

2011-02-01T11:17:00.001-08:00

Ive got a boy who only eats only the top off of a doughnut (unless its glazed, this one was chocolate). Ive got a boy who hands the rest of it to his sister who eats the. whole. thing. Its sort of sweet actually.

On a completely unrelated, sort of disgusting note,
Jackson pooped in the toilet!!! Huge deal! And HUGE poop! It was like a foot long. I dont know how that came out of him. Wow. So gross.

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Is Lost Really Over?

2011-01-27T11:35:00.000-08:00

We finished Season 6 of Lost. The SERIES Finale. I cried like a baby. In part because it was a REALLY good episode and partly because the end of Lost is the end of an era. David and I started watching this show right after we were married.

I remember the first Season, First episode. We borrowed Bad and Janells house. They must've been out of town cause it was just David, Jacob, Hannah and I. We had our own little marathon right in their living room (Thanks guys!). This was back when we lived in a house on wheels.

How can you not love that show? Some might call it risque. Wait. No. They don't. Cause there's nothing risque about it. It's all about love, jungles, others and the occasional bikini scene. Even those are scarce. I can't even remember there being any. But then again, I have that gift. The one of not being able to remember sex scenes or eff words. Maybe it's that, or quoting my friend,"I don't have a soul." (She wasn't saying that in reference to me, she was saying it in reference to herself. lol)

I asked David who his favorite character is. He couldn't say. He had a top 5. He returned the question and I thought for sure I could answer. It is Hurley. But then again who doesn't love Sayid? Even if he does kill people. Ooooh, murder. Yes that makes it risque I guess. And then there's Kate, and Charlie, and Sayer. I love them all. There's no playing favorites here. Who is your favorite character?

Funny scene from The Show (it deserves caps lock). So they end up going back in time. Hugo and Miles are hanging out. Hurley has a notebook he's writing in that Miles steals from him.

"Lost: Some Like It Hoth (#5.13)" (2009)

Miles Straume: [referring to Hugo's movie script] What the hell is this?
Hugo 'Hurley' Reyes: I'm writing "Empire Strikes Back."
Miles Straume: Uh, I'm sorry. What?
Hugo 'Hurley' Reyes: It's 1977, right? So "Star Wars" just came out. And pretty soon, George Lucas is gonna look for a sequel. I've seen "Empire" like 200 times, so I figured I'd made life easier and send him the script... with a couple improvements.
Hugo 'Hurley' Reyes: [to Miles] In "Empire", Luke found out Vader was his father, but instead of putting away his lightsaber and talking about it, he overreacted and got his hand cut off. I mean, they worked it out eventually, but at what cost? Another Death Star was destroyed, Boba Fett got eaten by the Sarlacc, and we got the Ewoks. It all could've been avoided if they just, you know, communicated. And let's face it, the Ewoks sucked, dude.

So funny. You have to watch the show to really understand why Hurley is so freakin' funny.

I guess it's back to Heros for us. When we were first married we watched Alias, and then 24 and then Lost. Thank goodness we still have 24.

The Place I'm In

2011-01-18T15:09:00.000-08:00

It's hard to be happy for someone when I can't be happy with myself. I've been on sabbatical. I'm behind on reading (and writing) blogs because I don't want to read about people and their awesomeness. It's selfish I know.

Why do we all pretend everything is okay when it's not?

David and I are finishing up Season 6 of Lost (the tv show). They throw Desmond into a well. It's not deep so that any one who peers over the edge can see him. He can't get out though.

Thats how I feel.

I realize that I am experiencing some anxiety/depression with the new changes in my life (staying home, working less). I also realize that what I am feeling is what I feel when I am depressed. It's hard to explain when you haven't experienced it yourself. They are feelings of doom, and sadness, and tiredness.

It's like I'm 2 different people. Not crazy-style multiple personalities type, but there is depression-me and then there is me me. I don't know if I need more medication or if I just need to snap out of it and I think that's where my problem is.

For Christmas I got a gym membership. But guess what? I don't have it! It was implied that I didn't get anything for Christmas because that's what I wanted. Well, it's January 18th and its still not here. I blame circumstances, and my husband. It was his job! (He knows that by the way). Also, why am I the only one that ever mentions even slight irritation towards my husband? Weird.

Well, I think I'll go now. I'm probably gonna mope. Or watch TV. Or play trains with the kids.

Rezoschmutions

2011-01-12T19:46:00.000-08:00

It's a new year, a time to start fresh. To renew our spirits and our minds. Bleh... I don't believe in that crap. I totally get it, but I don't believe in it. I DO get the feeling of freshness and what-not. But resolutions? Who keeps them... ALL YEAR?

I am feeling a little anxious this week. Today David started school/Army (again) at the rich kid school. Gone at 5 a.m. home... sometime in the evening. It's the first time I've been a sort-of real stay at home mom in a long time. I've gone down to working only 1 day a week. It's really intense. The homeyness of it all.

Today was successful. We only had one crappy pull-up. It makes me sad that Jackson is not yet poopy trained. We've resorted back to pull-up panties since I got tired of cleaning shiv off the floor, my hands and clothes. Ew. It's not even baby poo, it's big kid poop. And that's gross.

My kids are better for me than they are for David. It's incredibly weird to have him come home and see my little angels turn into monsters right before my eyes. Weird. BUT this is not true all the time. I think God blessed me with a great day today because if I started these next 4 months off with a bad bad time, I probably would have run away. For real.

Today was successful. I am thankful. I don't think they even cried. Okay fine, maybe a little. But that's only because Sadie destroyed Jackson's tracks (on purpose with a sly sassy smile). And so Sadie went to time out ensuing more crying. "Mommy, me me have ta put some pieces tracks" said Jackson. Me me is his word for "I".

I have so many ideas for this here blog. It's gonna be a good time.

Rain....I feel it. Its comin'

2010-12-22T21:58:00.001-08:00

The sound of rain is gorgeous. Especially on a tin roof. Or metal. Is tin metal? Oh my.

This is a picture of a feisty little reindeer who refuses to wear clothes but requests makeup. She doesnt care about toys and dolls (yet) but loves hair and mascara and painted nails. The statement on her shirt is pretty much her life story.

I'm angry at the popular kids in school. The snotty chubi bloggers who think they are all that. I am unsubscribing. Today. Well not today b/c I dont have internet. Even on my phone. I used it all up logging onto Stalkbook. I made that up. Dont steal it. But use it.

I do love Christmastime and baked goods. And family. And every other cheesy aspect of the holiday. I love Jesus. I dont believe in Christmas cards but I love receiving them (im starting a new tradition of St Patricks Day cards. How much fun will that be? Surprise! A letter in the mail thats NOT a bill. Or spam. Wait,thats called junk mail right?
Anyway, if I dont talk to ya, Merry Christmas!!!

It's Our Party and We'll Be ________ if We Want To.

2010-12-11T21:21:00.000-08:00

The decorations were glitzy and super annoying. The food was amazing and really super tasty. All for this: (see image below)

We had super ugly sweaters from the DAV Thrift Store (Disabled Veterans), tacky tablecloths from the Dollar Tree, and even shabbier miscellaneous decorations from Goodwill. The location was perfect. Mariah's home in Prescott Valley was decked out to the max with a mixture of beautiful and bold. Lights and bows and streamers everywhere. It was my birthday and I spent the whole day preparing for the awesomeness to come.

It was around 6:00 when no one showed up. And everyone started calling. "I am too tired", "I have to wash my hair", "My dog ate it", were just some of the excuses as to why people couldn't come LAST MINUTE to this extravaganza.

The few that were loyal and did say they were coming are on my list. The good list. Those who didn't, are on the naughty. Those that RSVP'd that they couldn't come are on the good list too. Because at least they can read. And follow directions. And be nice.

We decided to cancel the whole thing.

I was irate. Still am actually. Both M and I feel like taking our freakin' awesome goody bags and shoving them in peoples faces thanking them for NOT coming to our party. I bet you wonder what's inside of them. Well, I'll never tell. I still haven't decided what I am going to do with the millions of dollars worth of stuff that I already removed the tags from. Yeah. Awesome.

But let's not forget the $100 in food. Or the $150 in decorations. Ew. So mad.

I'm not asking for a pity party here, cause I'm already having one and frankly, I'm tired of planning them (parties). I am just asking for an explanation as to why people (especially my people) can't get their crap together when it comes to parties and RSVP'ing. If you knew you weren't coming, why did I have to call you to find out? Or, if you really just wanted to go to that theme park instead of our party, why didn't you say so? OR, if you knew you were going to vomit, why couldn't you have just done so? (just kidding sis).

I pretty much just want to be angry right now. I don't even need validation because I'm pretty sure I'm right about all my feelings and opinions. Don't forget that it was my birthday yesterday. lol.

The GOOD news is that we already had a babysitter. So we decided to go see The Tourist. I LOVED it! If you do decide to see it, don't expect tons of action (either kind) but do expect to laugh. Johnny Depp is fantastic. I thought for sure that I just loved him as Jack Sparrow but I now can claim that I love him outside of that role as well. All because of this one.
And seriously? What should I do with the gift bags?

It's a Wrangler tonight.

2010-12-08T21:41:00.000-08:00

That's for you sis.

I'm armed with my shea butter socks and a "fistpumping like champs" t-shirt. What else do I need to survive this night? This week? Nothing!!!

I read this article about how Superwoman won't be made into a movie anytime soon because she doesn't have a hometown? Say what? That's effing ridiculous.

Also, the guy in the cubicle in front of me is chewing. As in, chewing tobacco. In a very public place. It sort of makes me vomit in my mouth a little.

Uh oh. The random blogness is coming on.

I pretty much hate and love everyone right now. I joined on the Facebook numbers game bandwagon tonight. The one where people message you a number and you write something to them on your wall. It's all private but public. Crazy huh? The thing is, what if I get a number from someone I hate? I suppose I be honest with them right?

Like to one person I would say: Your girlfriend is a ho and you should stop dating her. And to another I would say: You said you were too busy for me, but not too busy for secret lunches with our friends?

Oooh. A little bitterness there. I don't know if I should delve into that topic now, or save it for later? It's really concerning friendship. I started another post about this. Ghost of Girlfriends Past. As in, the female friends. Not lesbian relationships.

I have this friend, a best one of sorts. Her and I hit it off when we first met. We became pretty close and made lots of memories in a short period of time. And then I feel like I wasn't able to be what she wanted me to be. And I think she couldn't accept that. And so she broke up with me. As in, told me we needed to take a break. Which I get. I get that sometimes it's necessary. So I gave her the time she needed and told her I would be ready when she wanted to talk. I feel like it's just never come. So I texted her (more than one time) and asked that we talk sometime. I didn't get a response so then texted her and asked her if she wasn't going to respond to please let me know that too. All with smiley faces. Because I didn't want to seem like a beeyotch. So then I get this response that she is really busy these days and that when she isn't busy THEN we can talk.

I guess she is really busy. Because it's been 5 days. It makes me more sad than anything because I know about a secret lunch between her and 2 of my other friends. I sort of wish I just wouldn't have gotten a response. The whole "I'm too busy for you now" thing hurt more than a non-response I think. I suppose I just miss a deep friendship connection thing which I have with a lot of people, but it's just a little different with her I guess. That probably sounds super weird, and maybe stalkerish, but whatev.

I only have like 2 (or 4 or 6) more quizzes in math and then I am done! Whoo hoo! I like math, but it's hard. I hope I can take Anatomy and Physiology next. I'm trying to convince my friend TBC to take it with me, because it would be fun to study, but she has like 21 brothers and sisters and like half of them are getting married next semester. I might wait, and in the meantime take Chem or Statistics or something. Did I tell you I am going to be a Physician's Assistant when I grow up? So that's why I wanna start taking the prereqs now. I can't even spell that word. Prerequisites? Ugh. Maybe I should take English first. But for now, I'll finish math.

I've been inspired. Not in a holy way.

2010-11-30T21:39:00.000-08:00

I'm NOT talking about Thanksgiving. I'm sick of that crap. Just kidding. But really? Aren't you sort of tired of hearing about turkey and thankfulness? Not that I am not all about that, but I'll save it for another time. For now, thanks to my new friend, I've decided to discuss a different topic common amongst us.

Sunday mornings.

Oh yes. it was one of those. One where I was so angry, and pretty much for no good reason. I haven't been enjoying church lately. Neither has David. Don't tell him I told you. Well, one Sunday afternoon he was helping some family paint their house. They were on a time crunch and it needed to be done. On the Sabbath. So they were there. Painting. And listening to general conference. David heard someone (a general authority) say that attending church is not always about what you get out of it, but what you can give and what you can offer.

It totally changed his perspective. And mine. At least for now.

But it didn't stop me from being angry on this Sabbath morn. Let's talk about Sadie.

She wouldn't wear anything but what she wanted to wear. Up until this point, she hadn't been super picky about clothing. So why did she have to pick a Sunday to start this up?

This is what she HAD to wear. Not her cute polka dot dress, or even the brand new (with tags) one that Grandma just gave her for her birthday. It was this:

You can't really tell, but that's a Dora the Explorer pajama top. And the velvet overcoat thing from her cute new above-mentioned dress. At least it sort of matched. And we got tights and shoes on her. Whoop! Oh, thank you grandma for this sweet little petticoat/tutu that she wore to bed and all the next day. Yes, thanks for that. :-)

Also, if you wanna talk about her holding the toilet bowl cleaner, go ahead. Because I have no answers/reasons/justifications for that. All I know is that she loves the toilet. They have a special bond. I could have chosen another pictures i have of her WITHOUT the scrubber but I was seriously laughing out loud when I re-saw this picture in my phone. I thought you might enjoy it too.

The other part of my bad mood came from the fact that I hate all my church clothes. I should've worn my own tutu.

That, and I hate my church bag. It's so.... gigantic. Why can't I get out the door with a purse and some snacks? Why do I have to have trains, and books, and scriptures, and candy, and papers, and lesson manuals, and other "essential" items? And HOW does it end up ALL OVER the building?

So I need my own bag for all this crap. Cause it's a lot. I also need my purse for chapstick and gum. And of course I can't put that in the church bag because then I'll forget to move it back to my purse and end up really really angry when I'm at work and don't have my lip gloss. I know right? DRAMA!

At least I have a new pink (mostly free) Victoria's Secret bag that I scored from waiting in line at midnight on Black Friday amidst an angry and somewhat volatile crowd. It's really great. And Bedazzled. Do you think that would fly at Mormon church? Cause I'm seriously considering it.

***Disclaimer: above mentioned image contains models, not people. Just kidding. Mostly***

There was poop everywhere!

2010-11-24T12:32:00.000-08:00

Potty Training.

Do I need to say more? Listen, I really have to. So Jackson, he's been doing great with the whole peeing thing. Even in the middle of the night he will wake up and tell us he has to go. Except for last night. But that's aside the point. Yesterday is the real story.

I came out from my bedroom. And I smelled something. I immediately looked to my right. And there was Jackson standing with his legs apart, a small puddle at his feet. And the smell. I can't forget that smell.

And basically from that point on, there was endless poop. Poop everywhere. I told him to lay down. I took the pants and the panties and the shoes and socks off. And anytime they moved, the poop moved. all over.

It was on my shirt
On my fingers
It was on the bottom of my foot
It was tracked throughout the house.

Don't forget the smell.

I seriously wanted to die. I think I said a few choice words that were later repeated. By Jackson. Don't worry, I won't do that again. Because the time will come when he will say those in front of Dad, or the bishop (who is his Grandpa) and I am pretty sure they will all look at me. And I don't want that on my shoulders.

Eventually the poop got cleaned up. It took probably 3 rolls of toilet paper, 2 washrags, and lots of dry heaves.

This was written awhile ago and still no successful poops in the potty. He knows now to get toilet paper and pick it up himself. It's sort of hilarious. Why doesn't he get it? I need your tips. All the tips in the world for potty training this boy. I was thinking that maybe it was because he is, in fact a boy and they stand up to pee. not sit down. Could that be it? Or is my child the exception to every rule?

While you're at it, could you share your tips for potty training a girl? My girl specifically? She is VERY smart. but she is also very tiny and I don't want her to fall into the abyss of the toilet.

Potty training posts have always made me laugh. And now I have my own. Good times.

Married to the Army and a good man

2010-11-21T22:59:00.000-08:00

On Friday David was sworn into the Army for 3.5 years. I'm not even sure I said that right. But anyway, it's sort of a crazy thing. And tonight I am feeling sort of solemn about it.

If you know David, you are probably shocked. You see, David has a free spirit. He usually does the opposite of what he is asked/told to do. Not that it's a bad thing, it's just who he is. Always has been. So following orders from a Captain, or "higher ups" doesn't seem to fit him. But it does!

This is a bragging blogger post. I apologize. It's just as much about him as it is about me. He is getting an "A" in a 6 credit hour Chinese class. He studies for hours a day. And he speaks/writes SO well because of it. It's sort of strange to hear him talk because it's so beautiful. It's almost like singing. Sometimes I'm not sure it's even him talking because it's so different, so flowy, so amazing!

In the Army, he is also well respected. He is many years older than most of the other cadets yet he outruns most of them! They once said it was because he has to chase his kids around all day! lol. His captain and the guy above him (I don't know his rank) have gone out of their way to help him and our family out. But that is another post for another time.

This post originally started as a recap of Sadies birthday, but I've run out of time. I love my hubby very much and someday when he reads this, I hope he knows that! Sorry it's so mushy but I just can't help it!

Sadie Faye

2010-11-15T10:54:00.001-08:00

Did you know that your name fits you? And that you have a lot of secret names as well? "Sadie Lynn Faye yo, Marie Ann Kay Jo." Or "sissy", or "naughty one".

I was awake last night at 1 a.m. and thought about how 2 years ago almost to the hour (you were born at 2 something), you came into this world. VERY quickly. I was sitting mostly naked in the living room (wearing only fur jacket and underwear), talking to Dad and your aunt Chelsi who was on the phone with Grandma Menlove. I looked at the clock. It read 10:27 p.m. and BAM contractions started. I knew then, that it was time to go. I wish you could have seen the chaos. Luckily Grandma was on the phone because she was able to relay the information quickly. Dad was really cute the way he tried so calmly to get everything ready. He wanted to move the car, and get me into it and help me dress, etc. I remember standing in the bathroom depserately looking for someone to help me put on my freaking pants. I walked out the door with a belly sweatshirt and sweatpants on.

4 hours later! You were here! Here on this earth. Ready to cause all sorts of trouble. As of late, your favorite thing to do is draw on the couches. And on your body. Preferably with permanent marker. But pens and highlighters do the trick just fine. I try so hard not to be mad, because I have a feeling you sort of know what you are doing. That's the thing. You are SO smart. You only speak words you know so it's pretty easy to understand (minus your sweet little lisp).

Bee Sting

Shoes. You LOVE shoes.

You hate flies. And frightening scenes in movies and books. You shake when they come on. We watched Toy Story 3 the other day and the part with the monkey FREAKED you out. You shook like crazy. I tried so hard not to laugh. There is another book we have (Big and Little) with a mouse and an elephant. The elephant climbs the ladder and is supposed to jump into this glass of water. Oooops.... she slips. SCREEEEEAAAAMMMMM is what you did at that part. It was so scary to you.

You love cars and trains and trucks (an older brother maybe?). At the store you pick balls and moving things over dolls and pretty things any day. BUT you love makeup. Specifically mascara and eyeshadow. People probably think I am a terrible mom for letting you wear Falsies mascara.

I love how you always touch your hair and say, "It's cute" to everyone you see. Mostly dad. And the mirror. It IS cute. YOU are cute.

My Halloween ladybug

The "cool leg". Your dad has it too. He'll put it up while he's driving even. But I promise you, you ALWAYS put it over your carseat as if to show that you are the boss, and in charge. A common phrase in our house is now, "No, Dasson" (No Jackson). We here a lot of naughty words too. They are meant to be good ones but just sound SO bad. Jacket, Truck and Talk are the 3 that come to mind. HIL.ARIOUS. What makes it more funny is that they are common words. So sometimes you'll say them, we'll pause, and then laugh because you really are trying to convey something, not just swear up a storm.

I am sorry that today, all I have are cell phone pictures to share. Because you are pretty model-like in your faces. Whether they are happy or sad or cheesy or hilarious... all of them are perfect. Probably because they are you and you are my daughter. Happy 2nd Birthday! I LOVE YOU!

Tramp Stamp

2010-11-14T22:50:00.000-08:00

I saw one today. Which is totally not a big deal BUT this one was on the back of a truck. A VEHICLE people. Who does that? Is that the new thing? I sure hope not. But if it becomes as such, I'm totally getting a butterfly. Or maybe a peace sign. Whatever is most sexy. What do you think? What would you get?

This one was a a silver truck. With a little scribbly design on the back, clearly feminine in nature. So was this girl a macho girl, attempting girliness, or a girly girl, pretending to be macho with her big, bad truck? Hmmm... not so sure. And maybe that was the point.

Speaking of tramp stamps... Sadie drew all over the couch today. For like the millionth time. I swear to you, that girl is a trouble-maker. She will also be 2 years old tomorrow. That's sayin' something right? Anyway, it was in black pen, and permanent marker. How do you tell a 2 year old (who is smart) not to do that anymore, in a way that she will understand and listen to? Is it possible?

I am surrounded by skanky girls. They probably all have tramp stamps. And I bet they have the initials of their boyfriends tattooed on their.... sides. I think that's the new thing too. Tattoos that go all the way up the side of your body. Mmmmm. Sounds SO nice. Oh wait. That sounds more painful than anything. And idiotic.

This girl in front of me, totally played this nice boy for his homework. She so sweetly batted her eyes and asked if she could use his homework for "reference". Him in his glasses, and button-up shirt, so sweetly responded that she could use it as long as it wasn't word for word. I hate her. Now she is flirting with the guy she called her "best friend". Rude! I want to tell on her. The "best friend" is way more ugly than the nice guy. Should i tell her that? Chubi.

So she just said, "I had so many texts last night. All of a sudden, everyone wanted to hang out with me." Ew gross.

Anyway, I am tired. And the library is closed. More stories of tramp stamps and chubis to come. Stay tuned.

The Purpose of Cleaning

2010-11-10T18:30:00.000-08:00

Can someone PLEASE tell me why I clean my house? Or even attempt it? I swear to you, I spend the whole day cleaning and it never. gets. clean.
Why pick up the 29 shoes on the floor when tomorrow there will be 18 there again? Not just the kids', the husbands too. Never your own, just everyone elses!

And the brownie pieces/crumbs? Might at well leave those there too. They're easier to clean when they've had the chance to be stomped on (occasionally eaten), and flattended to the ground. The broom can scrape them up and the Swiffer too.

What about the clothes piles? Mine are clean and dirty and everywhere in between. So unless it's a "sensitive" (delicate if your normal) then it's probably on the floor. And will be until David or I gets too fed up with tripping over them. Or if you're Sadie you omight be tired of sliding and falling on your butt. Poor girl.

Dishes in the sink? I am convinced I am the only one that cares about those. David would probably agree. I HATE doing them. But i ALWAYS do. How does that work out?

My least favorite chore that no one talks about? TOILETS! Who enjoys swiping poop and pee stains off of those germ infested bowls? Not me! Ew. Really gross. Especially because it's everyone elses poop and pee cause if I tinkle on the seat, you bet I'm gonna clean it up. And don't pretend you don't it occasionaly, cause you do. That time you were in a hurry, yeah. You left some behind. Watch. Now you're gonna check. If you are a close friend of mine you know I'm reminiscing about that time in 3rd grade where I got teased for this same mishap. Don't laugh.

What chore do you not enjoy?

2 kids are hard!

2010-10-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

Shut up. I know what you are thinking. "She is so lame if she can't handle 2 kids." K but listen. My 2 kids are 17 months apart. And my oldest one is 3.42 years old. And they are a handful! After all, they are my offspring!

So we go to the store today. And it's an experience for sure! I'm a good mom and I let my kids ride in the buslike carts with a vehicle on the front. You know the ones with all the germs on them? Normally they last awhile riding in them. No. Not this time. Jackson was literally dragging his body outside the cart because I refused to stop. I just wasn't giving in to him wanting to "push" the cart, a.k.a drive it like a race car.

I'm that mom you hate at the store. The one that lets her kids sit on TOP of the car, and hang off the side of the cart. Because frankly, it's so much easier. I just want to get my milk and eggs (and brownie mix, and bananas, and yogurt, onion soup mix, marinara sauce, sour cream, and the 3 boxes of twinkies that my kids threw in for good measure). So instead of putting up a fight, I just let it be.

At least when we got to the bakery, in order to get the free cookie, I told them they had to get off of whatever part they were hanging on. They did! They even said please and thank you. After about 2 minutes, those delicious sugar cookies were wasted on the bottom of the germ infested cart. Sad day.

Let's not forget about checking out! I hate grocery store checkouts more than anything in this whole world. It's so contradictory! Let's flood people with images of skinny beeyotches and then tempt them (and their children) with confectionary bliss. Good idea people. Ugh. It pisses me off. My favorite quote of all time from a movie is one from 13 Going on 30.

Young Jenna Rink: I don't want to be beautiful in my own way. I want to look like these people (pointing to magazine).
Beverly Rink: Oh those aren't people honey, those are models.

OMG. Does no one else think that line is so funny? Or is it really just me? Even amid the craziness, I escaped without a scratch. But Sadie didn't. She was working her way into people to get to the dreaded Rolos. She prefers to rip the gold tinfoil to shreds (they are the only candy wrapper she can open). Anyway, she totally pushed this huge guy out of the way, and at about that time I had had enough. So I took her by her arm and accidently smacked her head on the cart. It was sad. You can imagine the stares of people as I'm walking out. Tomorrows headline reads, "Mother Abuses Child in Safeway Checkout Line: Sentenced to Life in Prison" Please? Can I? Just kidding.

I do love my kids. But that doesn't mean they are easy.

The Workings of a Memoir

2010-10-25T22:34:00.000-07:00

I ignored the first call, but answered the second.
          "Hey. Can I borrow 5 bucks for gas to Phoenix?" he asked mildly.
          "Sure. Where are you?" I responded.
          "At the Texaco in Prescott."
          "I'm in Prescott as well. I'll see you in a few."

He had never asked for money before. I was happy to give it to him but it was still odd that he asked. I knew he was headed to Phoenix to get the last of his belongings from Stephs house.

I pulled up as he sat waiting against his Chevy. A Blazer, I think. Not his, but my sisters. He stood with his hands in his pockets wearing a tattered black and red flannel shirt, and a Raiders hat. And his moccasins. Always his moccasins. I approached him with a hug. He smelled like vanilla and cigarette smoke. The smell of those little tree air fresheners have always been a staple in my memories of him.

          "I'll be right back," I said as I walked to the inside of the gas station. I picked up a Gatorade for him and a diet coke for me.
          "15 on pump 4 please," I asked the clerk at the register. I handed her cash. A ten, a five, and some ones for the drinks. I don't normally have cash. But that day I did.

I walked back outside and started pumping the gas for him. He kept his head down.

          "You didn't have to do that," he said finally looking at the numbers on the pump.
          "I know. But I wanted to," I said, "Drive safe okay?"
          "I will" he replied finally looking in my eyes, "Thank you," he said quietly.

I hugged him tight and told him I loved him. He told me he loved me too. I was walking back to my car when he said,

"I promise you I'm getting my ducks in a row."

Those were the last words he spoke to me face to face before he died.

****Disclaimer****
I am shaking as I write this, because I am not a writer. I don't know how to write. I don't know the correct formatting, what's "good" and what's "not good". I don't pretend to know. These are just my words. The way I thought them. I've mentioned before that I want to write my story. I decided my blog is the best place to start. I've started in my journal as well. For some reason, this memory continues to stick in my head. So I'm writing it down as part therapy, part journaling, part letting go.

Definition of Memoir

A memoir is a piece of autobiographical writing, usually shorter in nature than a comprehensive autobiography. The memoir, especially as it is being used in publishing today, often tries to capture certain highlights or meaningful moments in one's past, often including a contemplation of the meaning of that event at the time of the writing of the memoir. The memoir may be more emotional and concerned with capturing particular scenes, or a series of events, rather than documenting every fact of a person's life (Zuwiyya, N. 2000).

I can't drive past that gas station on the way to Phoenix without reliving this moment. It still hurts my heart. Not as much as the last voicemail he left, on the day that he died, the one I deleted midway through....

The one where Lisa complains about work

2010-10-20T23:03:00.000-07:00

I have a headache. Again, it might be the caffeine, or lack of water. Or maybe the lack of sleep. Maybe all those things?

It's time to let it all out. Listen, I know we all hate our jobs sometimes. But lately, I really don't like mine. For the last while after coming home from work David has asked, "How was work?" My response? "Dumb." What does that mean? It means it was dumb. Just dumb is all. He said today that he can't wait for the day when 'dumb' is NOT my answer. I wonder if it will ever happen. I am sort of expecting it to soon. Hurry up SAT people. We need those results!

I really did like my job. Until I realized I listen to people complain. All. Day. Long. About trash. Really? Is that what people like to do in their spare time? Harass their utility people? I wonder what kind of calls the electric company gets. "My lights were flickering today. I hate you because of that. Give me a refund." Can you imagine?

This are the words from an actual message I got today.

Wife: Hello this is Mrs. Mckday at uh......
Husband in background: 3560 N. Blah Road.
Wife: 3560 W Blah Rd. and our garbage hasn't been picked up. So I was wondering why it hasn't been picked up.
Husband in background: Every time we gotta call
Wife: So it seems like every time that its supposed to be picked up we hafta to call you to come and pick it up. So if you don't want to pick our garbage up, we are going to get somebody else.

The end. No goodbye, no nothin.

K. First of all, they have been customers since 2001 and this is the 2nd time we have missed them. Second. Second time in 9.5 years! So "Every time we gotta call".. uh really? And I'm sorry we are going through some changes right now. Give me a break. Ugh.

Secondly, have your dumbace husband call if he has such a problem with it. What's with these men who don't have the balls to call? Speaking of men without balls, this other woman calls today to set up service. She can't decide on a payment plan until talking to her husband. She calls him, and then calls me back to get more information that HE wanted. She calls him again, calls me back and then lets me know (after I've set up her account, put her on the list to have her can delivered) that "they" made other arrangements. Don't worry, they made them with our competition. GRRRRRRR!!!!

BUT! There was a compliment today. This one guy called to let me know he was sending a payment (after he received a letter gently reminding him he hadn't paid). I told him we felt bad about even sending the letter because he has been such a good payer in the past. He asked me if I was married. And I said yes. He then said, "Aw that's too bad. I wish my wife was as forgiving as you are." I'm not sure he meant to be a creeper/cheater. I actually thought he was being funny. David, if you are reading this, you don't have to perform that violent act you always mention when you think a guy is hitting on me.

As a side note: Do you think it's an oxymoron to take my vitamins with a diet Coke?

I'm not sure I'm ready to post this. But I am going to. It's sort of lame. But I am tired and I have to do a lot of items. Maybe I'll do 2 posts in one day! Whoop. Later though.

Private Parts

2010-10-18T21:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight, it was a Red Scion. A sports car type. Yup again, I am at the library. This stupid ace math project is going to kill me.

I don't want to write about this. But I told you I would so I will.

Remember the private news? It's literal private news. As in, my privates. Wow. TMI.

The news is... I got my IUD out!

Which means;

WE'RE HAVING .................
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....

Protected SEX!

lol. Again. TMI. But oh well. Thats what you get when you read my blog.

So anyway, this was decided (the getting the IUD out thing) because I was having some irregularity with it. I've had it for about 2 years and it was just not getting normal. (I had this one)

I'm not sure whether I will continue to advocate for it. But I loved it for a good reason. I didn't have to think about it! It was just there. Automatic birth control. Who wouldn't love that?

Well, it came time to have it out. And now i hate my life. It's been 3 days and I want it back. Not necessarily the IUD. But something to make me feel normal!

I don't want to give you too much gross information but I might anyway. I am bleeding like a freak. Gross. That's so gross.

I was really hoping to not to bc for awhile to just let my body 'heal' if you will, from the weirdness it's been through for the last FOREVER. However, I was thinking in the future and asked my doc to give me a perscription for some low dose bc. Looks like i'll be visiting Wal-greens tomorrow.

Many people think birth control is evil or something. And that makes me worried. In fact, when I grow up, I want to be an educator of people. On birth control and protected sex. I'm not an idiot and neither are kids these days. Of course i am an advocate for abstience but let's face it, it's not happening for the majority of teenagers. Therefore, I am going to travel the world and teach kids (even and especially LDS ones) about birth control and sex in general. We don't talk about it enough. Really. It's so true. That's another topic in itself.

I talked to my sis-in-law about natural bc. it seems like a lot of work. Is it worth it? What about the non hormone releasing IUD? Does anyone have experience with that? Give me some feedback ladies (and gents if you want!) What works for you? What doesn't work for you?

Again? Really?

2010-10-14T21:09:00.000-07:00

Tonight I parked next to a VW Beetle. One of the cute ones. With flowers next to the steering wheel.

That's right. I'm in the library again!! missing out on time with my family and with my husband all because of a massively hard math project. It's Calculas and Finite Mathematics with Applications. ??? Yeah. My fingernails are green and so is my brain. As in, I can't think much right now. Because all I want to be doing is eating starbursts and watching 90210. I also wish I could go to the gym. They have TV's on their treadmills. i miss Jersey Shore. I am SO behind. Isn't there only like a couple episodes left? Or are they all done now? See? So behind!

These jerks in the library are blasting music. Isn't that like, against the rules? I am tempted to go ask the guy sitting at the front desk to please ask them to turn it down but I don't want to be the school nerd. So instead I'll just plug my head into my own earphones. Rudes.

I have a headache. From a lack of water, or too much sugar. Or maybe it's because I had to work today and we did billing. It could be my stress level as well. Or my period.

Ooooh speaking of which.... I need to talk to you. About something personal. Are you ready? Wait. I just changed my mind. I'll write about that later. But stay tuned because this is something you will definitely want to know about.

I'm going to work on my all to stressful project. Sadie wore mascara today. She loves it. Jackson wears nailpolish on his toes. He likes it.

My hubby got his fancy Army suit today. He told me they are changing the color of it from that dark green to Navy blue. He looks hot in it. I wish I had a picture.

For real now, I am going. But remember to check back for important private news!

Sayin' Dolla Dollah Bills Ya'll

2010-10-13T23:59:00.000-07:00

I read off the cars in the parking lot to my sister and we laughed as I pulled next to a Mercedes Bluetec. Seriously? Did you even know those existed? Maybe because I live in Paulden? I'm the one with the ghetto Toyota: misangled headlights, non-existent hubcaps and more!

We also laughed at the fact that we are both close to a zero balance in our checking accounts. Okay fine, I'm negative. But I went to Ross tonight and took back an article that I hope will recover me to at least above 0! lol. If not, that's okay because I can overdraw tomorrow (with direct deposit, it's possible! Do I sound like a bank ad?)

I sort of can't understand how some people just have the money. And some don't. My sister joked with me as well about how she was going to divorce her husband just so she could get food stamps and medical benefits. I joke about it too, because I really can appreciate it! I've been lucky (?) to be poor enough to reap the benefits (literally).

I don't really get it though... the way it all works. How my sisters hubby can work SO hard and STILL have to pay out the butt for health insurance. NOT FAIR. Shouldn't they get a break because they contribute so much to taxes? Ugh. I hate it.

Also, I really really really do hate HOA's. Like forever. And always. I will NEVER be a part of one. They're like a cult. That's another story for another day. They are REALLY stealing peoples money.

Lots of Caps lock in this post. I might be fired up. I also might be a bit jittery from an overdose of caffeine but I'm not sure.

The library people are coming after me again. it's 11:50. Last time, they cut me off. They started this count down. "364 seconds until your computer shuts off " and then WHAM it happened only 30 seconds later. Stupid.

There are some free magazines in the entrance of the library. Some Us weeklys from like 2009. And Ebony. Oooh I think I'll get those ones.

Anxiety is coming upon me. I'm the only one left. I better get out of here before this computer self destructs.

A Poser

2010-10-12T23:57:00.000-07:00

I am not crafty. I only pretend to be.

I am not an ERAU student. I only pretend to be.

These are the things on my mind today. I am at the ERAU library pretending to fit in. I am sneakily looking around me to see if anyone is reading what i am writing. If they are, they are finding out my secrets. I am a mere observer of these students so diligently working on projects for Engineering or Air Science class or like the kid next to me, playing games on addictinggames.com

You see, my husband attends this school and therefore feel I am entitled to use his popularity to my advantage. These kids, this school? It's amazing. Free newspapers, and software, and water bottles everywhere. It's awesome.

I could ask any of the students around me and they would no doubt be able to complete my math project without any trouble. But, as David said, "Anyone who is at the library at 11:30 at night has something to do" which makes me afraid to even ask. So instead, I will work on it myself. It's really hard. Can someone please help me? Or at least feel bad for me?

Do you want to see my craft? I sort of don't care if you don't. Because right now I feel like being a Bragging Blogger. Generally, I despise anyone who spends most of their blog posting and talking about the things they have made. Unless that is the point of the blog, in which case i don't even read/know about it.

The library is closing in 10 minutes. They will shut me off if I don't hurry. I want you to see my craft!

Seriously? I did that. Don't laugh. It really was a lot of work. I busted out my scissors, used my table and glued the edges. Yes I said glue. I have some "liquid needle" stuff. It's AWESOME! If you haven't used or heard of it, you better get some. But don't tell anyone my secret.

I'm so cool huh? I like this because it's not only a curtain, but a piece of art. We never open that window because our neighbors house is like 4 feet away. I'm not exaggerating. Well, a little bit I am. But the house is really close. And if we opened it up, they would look in. And I have privacy issues. Oh, and the sun is always shining in that window. No matter the time of day, it's always sunny.

8 more minutes until I can't write anymore. I'm typing super fast now.

Wait! The guy over the intercom just said 5 minutes! Aaaaahhhh.

I'm not done with my thoughts but I better go. I have a lot more to say but I guess you'll just have to wait until tomorrow.

Comment on my curtains. Right now. Well, don't. Because that's not what I'm looking for. But I AM proud!! lol.

My Husband the artist

2010-10-07T10:34:00.001-07:00

This makes me feel happy. Jackson requested The Gooey Geyser and David (the good dad he is) just threw in Dora and Boots. Yes, thats Dora and Boots.

Speaking of which, where are Doras parents? I know they exist cause her mom had twins (a boy and a girl) but do they not care that she is out dodging alligators and volcanos? I never thought about this fact until a good friends mom brought it up. She pointed out the absence of parents in other popular shows as well.

But thankfully my kids like the shows with parents, or the implied parents. The Backyardigans at least are in their backyard and their moms make them snacks (healthy ones too!)

Thomas doesnt have parents. So I guess its not true that they only like parental shows. I think Ill let it slide.

I'll have to ask David to draw The Backyardigans.

I love them!

2010-10-06T17:15:00.000-07:00

It’s midlife crisis time again. Are you ready?

Woke up today to the sound of rain… song right? It’s true. It was about 6:30. I pressed snooze about 5 times (the maximum number of times my phone lets me). And I laid there. Next to me were the 2 most beautiful creatures ever! It was my Jackson and my Sadie, both sleeping soundly (in the same position!). I got up, stared at them a little longer and realized that I had to wake them! I hate waking sleeping kids (especially mine).

All this, because I had to be to work on time. Work. That’s another story.

I miss my kids! The days I work 2 days, and am off 2 days are my favorite. I have a whole day to spend with them! Granted, at the end of the day I still may want to tear my hair out. But who doesn’t right? And if you don’t, let me know. Cause I’ll probably slap you. Seriously I’ll come over to your house and pull your hair out for you. Wow. That’s violent. Okay, even for me it’s not always like that. Some days we can go a whole hour without anyone crying. And SOME days we can go the whole day without water all over the floor or crumbs in my cleavage.

Back to the sentimentalness. There are things that dad just can’t do! David says to me the other day, “Did you know Jackson knows his colors?” Um, yes! I taught him! Or maybe Dora did. Either way, numbers and letters and objects and foods, and manners… those generally come from mom. Don’t hate if it’s not true for you. This is my version of life remember?

There are so many moments I just know I am missing out on. Oooh funny story. We were all at work today (kids and I) and Jackson was hanging out with Grandpa George (our mechanic). George comes in and says, “I think he needs to go pee pee. Cause he’s wigglin around and grabbin’ it and stuff.” So I’m standing in the bathroom helping him get his pants down and I ask George to make sure he doesn’t leave because “Jackson wants to go with you.” Everyone in the building started cracking up. It took me a long time to realize why it was funny. Even now, it’s not that funny to me. Do you get it?

In conclusion, I love my kids.

Seriousness Is Bliss

2010-10-04T21:28:00.000-07:00

I don't know why, but I've felt especially serious lately. I have a lot of funny things to say, but not really funny things. Today was a serious day in that I waited 7 hours for someone to come jump my car for me. As in, hook up the cords to my battery to make it start. I sent a few texts out saying "I am waiting for someone to come jump me." Uh, that doesn't sound right.

Instead, while waiting, I spent the day enjoying my kids! We were all anxious to leave but that doesn't mean we didn't enjoy some Kai-Lan and pizza pockets. The rainy weather (thunder and lightening included) increased the snuggliness of my kids and I am definitely not sad about that.

We don't have internet at home right now nor do we have Satelitte TV or Cable. So reading and watching movies is what we do. It helped that the house is mostly clean so really, it was a GREAT day. Do I sound boring right now? Yeah I do.

In light of the boringness, let's talk about something NOT boring. Like my TI-83 Plus calculator. I am so grateful to have it. But the batteries keep running out so fast! Can you help? I need it. I take math class. Math is hard and fun. I like math.

Also (this is becoming random), I have chapped lips. Is that the weather change?

Book club is tomorrow. Who is coming??? If you can't come to this one, come to the next one. I'll let you know what we are reading when it's announced. Whoever is hosting gets to pick the next book. Whoop. Well, David is coming to get me. It's still raining! I love it.

Should I go to the gym? I don't want to. But I probably will.

The Truth and It's Counterpart

2010-09-29T11:02:00.000-07:00

I'm coming out. About it all. I haven't been completely honest with you and I think you deserve to know the truth. So here it is.

I swear. Literally, I do. Like in my head, and when I drive. I say bad words. A lot of the time it's in my head but sometimes it's not. I don't think I'm going to try as much to censor my language. Because I think God still loves me.

I can't be your best friend. Not because I don't like you, but because I am bad at it. I don't answer my phone, always text back or comment on your status updates or blogs. I am unreliable (not because I want to be, but because life requires it) and I value dependableness. I don't committ even though I'd like to. I'll always make plans but can't promise to keep them (again, even though I want to!). I want to be your bff but those are things I will never be great at. And if you can accept that, than yay. Let's keep on, keepin on.

There's nothing that irritates me more, than people with bad manners. I really hate when you chew loudly, or fart while we are having a serious conversation. I don't like when you say stupid things about people you know nothing about.

I hate sharing money. Isn't that lame? I will give you ANYTHING you need. But please, don't ask me for money. You can have my clothes, my car, my eggs, my uterus (or kidneys), but please, don't beg for dolla bills. Mostly because I am the one doing the begging. Contradictory right? Speaking of which, I need to give an experience.

David and I went to his parents house last night to get the money he earned by washing cans earlier in the day. We needed that money to pay our water bill. They gave us more than he earned. We tried not to take it while in our heads we were desperate for it. I probably seemed rude at the time because I honestly didn't know what to say. I am overwhelmed with the charity of others. With how people (not me) can give with NO expectation of anything in return.

But for real. I really will give you all the money I have if you need it. I promise. And don't be afraid to ask.

I am going to be more honest from now on. Even on this blog. I plan to use it as a resting place for my thoughts, to gather stories on my memoir. I hope you will buy it. And if you do, I will sign a copy for you.

Thanks for listening. I appreciate you for who you are. It's REALLY true.

The Grate Debate. I know, I spelled that wrong.

2010-09-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

So, remember how I used to be really loud and sort of obnoxious on the blog? And then it sort of (notice the sort of) went away? It's because of the secret blog. I think what i am going to do though, is just get back to this. I'm not sure what this is going to be. It might be a mommy blog, or a I-hate-everyone blog, or maybe it will be a cooking blog (say what?), ALL depending on my mood.

Another thing.

I can't remember if I have posted here or not about how I am cutting people out. It's such a weird experience for me. I have always had a lot of friends. But I haven't always been a good friend. So this cutting people out, is weird. It feels wrong, but it feels good. Because I can now work on being a great friend to those that will have me. It's not that I am cutting them out necessarily, it's more that I have stopped being SO concerned with pleasing them. You know? We all have those people in our lives that we sort of keep around for some reason. Well, not me! I'm cleaning house. That's rude huh? I sound like a huge beeyotch. But that might be what I am.

Did you know that I hate flies? I used to never kill them. But since there is pretty much an infestation of them at my house, I can't help but feel an overwhelming need to whack them. Really hard. Wow. Angry person I am. I am back to the "I hate everyone" stage of life. Even though I don't really.

All I can hear right now is the sound of their buzzing. Gross. They die in the winter time right? Do moths come out in winter? Because i hate those too. So bad.

Anyway, I really do like you a lot. Only if you are reading this. j/k. lol. brb. And with that, I'll pass.

Halloween is weird but you are more weird.

2010-09-17T17:55:00.000-07:00

Awkward moment of the day occurred in the Safeway checkout line. The lady in front of me (who was 80 years old with pigtails tied with scrunchies), bought 2 candy bars. Well they are on sale. Buy 2, get 1 free. So cashier lady told pigtail lady to get another one. So I am up next. I too bought candy bars AND got my free one. Cashier lady starts telling me how she has so much candy even though she has not purchased any in years! It's been in her freezer. I offered what I thought was a smart suggestion. "Hand it out to the kids at Halloween". Smart right?

No.

She proceeds to tell me how Halloween is the devils holiday and how "people don't really know what they are celebrating. They are celebrating the dead. and Satan." Oh my. It was intense. Jehovah's Witness much? Yeah. Pretty sure. It was sort of a long and embarrassing schpeel about the whole thing.

Now I'm not a big fan of Halloween. In fact, I hate it. But not for those reasons. The whole conversation was really unnecessary.

I wish we could have talked about my reasons for hating it. You spend lots of money on stupid costumes that you wear for ONE DAY! Don't tell me about how you are so crafty and make your own and it's free. Cause even then, it's not free. You spend the time sewing and stressing all for someone who doesn't really care. Also, there is the candy. I love candy. But I hate spending LOTS of money on candy that I don't even get to eat. Yes, I started hating Halloween after I became an adult. Wait, that's not even true. I think I really began hating it around the time puberty/awkward stage of life started. When it mattered whether you went as a nurse or a witch, or Marsha Brady (all the popular kids went as the Spice Girls). I always wanted to be something that involved an expensive costume (a princess, or angel, or something). But we couldn't afford it. And I think that's when it happened. The hating of Halloween.

I'm Sorry I Have to be That Person

2010-09-08T22:03:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to be the one that doesn't "moderate" comments. I believe in free and anonymous speech. Except when you are a spammer. Therefore, I have had to unallow? Disallow? Cut-off? anonymous comments on my blog. At first it was just one specific post, but today in my inbox there were a few more posts that had been spammed.

I've been told that once you've been hit, they sort of mark your blog as one that is good for posting stupid stuff. This is one of them from today (I removed the links):

Hi All

I was looking around for Modern Entertainment CenterWall Units (I'm not really sure what the difference is LoL) and was wondering if you know any resources to explain what I need to know to make an informed buying decision. Any review is appreciated.

Thanks in-advance for all your help
Mike

This was another one from before:

hpxntxerymryhsvgsxkqy. acne treatment

foydtv

Ugh. So rude. Anyway, so I've blocked YES that's the word I was trying to think of, people who don't have Open ID or something like that from posting. We'll see how it goes. I've also added comment approval for posts over 14 days old. Because it seems like all the spam is on posts older than 14 days. How is Google so smart to know that?

That's all for now. I've got some math homework to do.

Oh yeah, and we had our first book club meeting . We are going to read The Giver. Do you want to join us? It's going to be LOTS of fun. We would love for you to come.

Our View From The Haunted Hamburger

2010-09-06T20:43:00.001-07:00

You cant tell, but its actually really beautiful. Have you ever been to Jerome, AZ? Its really really cute there. And pretty!!! We ate at the aboce mentioned Restaurant. I ordered the hamburger that was on special. It was only $21.00!!! Luckily that was a mistake. I had a mini heart attack for a second.

We had adventures yesterday and today. Camping (last minute) and then Jerome. Loved it. Well not the hard ground, and sore body. But the memories? For sure.

God answers prayers. It's true. I have been stressing about pictures getting done for some clients and after about 16 tries of burning the pictures to a disk, I gave up. And I prayed. And guess what? Yeah, it worked. It ended up taking 3 disks and everytime I tried to burn them without praying first, no workey. But, with some Divine help, they worked just fine. It was definitely a lesson for me. I have been slacking in faith a little bit and this lesson was EXACTLY what I needed.

This Really Did Happen to Me

2010-09-01T21:22:00.000-07:00

So yesterday we were lucky enough to spend the day together as a family. I know right? Well most of it. I had appointments in the morning, and he had school in the afternoon, but hey, I didn't have to work work. As in, work in the office. Being a mom is work though. And I will always consider it as much.

The kiddos and I dropped David off at school for Chinese and decided that we were all very thirsty for some high class chocolate milk. So off to Starbucks we went. 3 chocolate milks please. We sat down, and sipped quietly. Jackson saw letters on the wall! He loves letters lately. (Did you see the cute pics on Facebook of him and Sadie?) He pointed out the ones he knew and asked "wass dat?" to the ones he didn't. He talked in a normal 3 year old voice. Chattering about chocolate milk and the letter T.

Along comes this lady. She says to Jackson, "How old are you?" After looking at me as if to ask if this lady is okay to talk to, he says, "Free years old". I gladly say "That's right!" This lady goes on and says, "Well, you are talking like your are 1 year old. You are using your outside voice. And you need to use your inside voice. We are in an adult coffee shop and people are trying to read. And you are talking so loud." All the while, Jackson is looking at this lady and responding as if she is one of those kind old-lady people. No. Not at all. "Yeah, you need to go outside if you want to talk like that. Because we are inside. And need to be quiet. And this needs to be enforced by your parents." And then walks away. For real.

I'm shaking by this time. I sit there for about a minute before I take both kids, our chocolate milks, my purse and my shaking body to the bathroom. I called my sister. She always has the right things to say. As expected, I received the validation and words I needed to confront this idiot of a woman.

I go back out, walk up to her with this whole speech planned and and don't even get 5 words in before she interrupts me. I said "Excuse me, you have no right...." and then she cuts me off. She proceeds to tell me how the president of Starbucks in an interview on TV (which she thinks I need to watch) said that Starbucks is meant to be an adult place. That people come here to read in peace and quiet. That I need to teach my kids this. That I should take them to McDonalds to play. Every now and then, I got to tell her that she has no right to talk to my kids like that and that Starbucks is a PUBLIC place that serves kids drinks and treats (apparently those are for people who get drinks to go)! That if she wants somewhere quiet, to go to a freaking library or HOME. That she has no right to criticize my parenting (which she says she wasn't doing. She was using this at a teaching moment). That it's not posted anywhere that this is a quiet, adults only place. This lady was seriously convinced that Starbucks is an ADULTS ONLY place.

I'm not stupid. I am socially aware enough to know that if my kids are being loud, to tell them to be quiet. We were seriously sitting there at the table (not even running around) drinking our drinks. The lady at the opposite table was smiling. And even when I walked out of the bathroom another customer was smiling at the kids too. Again, I am aware of people and I can read them pretty well. If I felt at all, that my kids were misbehaving, you better bet I would do something about it. But I didn't think that talking normally in a PUBLIC place was a crime.

Don't worry, I'll be calling Starbucks. I have some questions for them.

****Update****

I ended up writing Starbucks about my experience. Mostly to ask whether their mission is to create an "adult coffee shop atmosphere". I received a response and am very pleased with their courtesy. Here it is:

Thank you so much for taking the time to write to us.

I am truly sorry that you had such a disappointing visit. As a matter of fact we actually sell children's beverages. This is obviously not the experience we want you to have at our stores.

I want you to know that we take your concerns seriously and that I will share this not only with departments here in our corporate office, but also with the manager and district manager of the Iron Spring and Gail Gardner Way store to address this.

I would love to invite you back into our stores for the chance to make up for a visit that you did not enjoy. What I will do is mail you some beverage coupons so that your next drink will be on us.

Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to fix something that is wrong. If there are any questions or concerns that I have not been able to address, please don't hesitate to call us at 800 23-LATTE (235-2883), we are here Monday through Friday from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM (PST).

It was written by a real person. I took the survey at the end and gave them high remarks for their response and concern. That is good customer service. Just acknowledging my concerns was enough! but the free drinks don't hurt either. :-)

The Truth of it All is This.

2010-08-20T15:42:00.000-07:00

So what's new in our life? I'll tell you. Are you ready?

I hate using cliche's. Cause it's so, well, cliche. But I have to. We've been so busy. I know right? Busy with what though? Not even that much. The same ol' same ol'.

David is done with summer school as of Friday of last week. I feel extra sad that we haven't even done anything to celebrate. He was super duper sweet and brought me flowers and a card thanking me for supporting him through it. I need to post pictures of them. I love them (the flowers), I love him. He got straight A's. Yeah. He's good like that. He starts Chinese in the fall as well as many other cool classes. Watch out world, here he comes.

Sadie is sweet and feisty. She is growing up. She is also climbing on everything. I'm not ready for it. She climbs on things and then ~~whines~~ screams when she can't get down. She is also talking, or mumbling a lot more! It is really super awesome.

Jackson. Oh my. He is hitting so many milestones so fast. If I'm being honest, I feel like the most worst mom in the world. I haven't recorded or videoed or pictured enough of his/her/their growth. It breaks my heart a little. Not only do I NOT have a video camera, Fine. It's just that I don't have a video camera. I do have a regular camera that does it, it just requires effort I suppose. So there. It's the camera and the gumption to do it that I'm lacking. So anyway, he is talking so much better than he used to. He says "ah" before every answer to a question. I have to video this cute thing. It's so very wonderful. I'm going to go home and charge my battery to my ghetto camera so I can get it on video for you. Today, I was sitting on my bed with my sister. He has this great thing he does where, if you hit someone he gets real angry and says, "Mommy, stop hit Shashy." Then, in a completely different, more sweet voice he says to the victim (in this case my sister), "Shashy, You okay?" Then he will give kisses and hugs as appropriate. I can't take it! It's so wonderful! Today Chelsi (shashy) and I took turns back and forth hitting each other so we could get the affection.

I always promise a lot of pictures but never follow through. Sad day. I think the perfectionist in me can't accept that not all my pictures are perfect. lol.

Is it sad that I look forward to watching Big Brother more than anything? What am I going to do when it's over? I love this season. I don't care what you say, I still like Rachel. Even though she is a little mean. I am rooting for Matt though. If you don't have/watch TV, watch this show. It's a little smutty (but not too much since it is on a family channel), it's interesting, and it's 3 days a week! The best part is, it's online! So even though we don't have cable (hopefully we will soon, Steven?) I can still watch it! Whoop.

I suppose that's all for now. I think I am going to look over some of my unposted drafts and post them. Just as they are.

To A and J (all 6 of you! :-))

2010-07-19T20:45:00.001-07:00

Sadie Representing! (Look at her shirt!) We got it when we lived there. From a thrift store. Jackson wore it and now its her turn. YAY! We love our LHU graduates or to-be graduates. :-)

Giddy With Love

2010-07-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

Seriously? Did I really just title this post Giddy With Love? Wow. Ghetto. Well, here we go. It's gonna be one of those posts. You know the one where I totally brag about my life? Nah, Not really.

I am really excited about my life. Not anything is super awesome that I need to tell you about. I'm just working on changing my thoughts. It's really sort of cool the difference it makes. I promise. I'm reading a couple of books right now which I will not be naming quite yet. That way you have to keep checking back until I make the big reveal.

Remember when I was sad and mad about being fat? Well that mentality is changing! I just want to be more positive. Simply said.

Growing up, there was a lot of negativity in my home (I love you mom). Not words necessarily, but actions, and thoughts and circumstances. We are programmed with it from childhood even if it's not from our home. Our tests in school are marked with how many we got wrong. We're told NOT to do something because it's bad or dangerous, etc. At times, it's necessary. I know that. I'm making a point in that it's hard to NOT be negative with everything we've learned to base responses off of.

Baby steps, baby steps. Did you know if takes 21 days for something to become a habit? Yeah. It's true. I might be on day 4 or something. lol.

Here is a tidbit for today:

Wisdom is knowing I am nothing
Love is knowing I am everything
And between the two my life moves.
-Nisargatta Maharaj

By the way, I in no way am meaning to be all preachy weachy. I'm just here to share with you! I hope you share with me too!

Dare's Birthday

2010-07-08T17:09:00.000-07:00

05.13.10

Happy Birthday to Dare! I love him tons. This happened awhile ago. Oh well! He is a special one to me. And I love my family!

It's Always A Gamble

2010-07-08T16:33:00.000-07:00

I'm never sure where, or what to post. I read through some of my old Myspace blogs. I want to post some of them here.

It worked. I'm just gonna start linking them. Some of them are risque. Can you handle it?

I have nothing interesting to say today. Tonight is date night. I feel upset that I don't have my camera or camera charger, or even a video camera. I am missing out on so many moments of my childrens life. Where are you camera charger? I'm putting some good energy out there that I will find it.

I will be posting a link to my bff's blog. She is going to be famous. I really think she will be. She is funny AND a good writer, AND interesting.

It's weird cause I've had 2 days off of work. I have to work tomorrow and then have 2 days off again. I wish I could just have all of the days off. lol.

What are your plans for the weekend?

Is It Illegal to Drink Pepsi from a Coke Cup?

2010-07-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

Because I have been at home for the last 2 days with my babies, I decided it was time to mommy blog.

A few things I love about Jackson right now:

His complete answers to questions. "Jackson, do you want ketchup with your chicken?" His response, "Yes, ketchup." (Complete with the pause). Another one today, "Jackson, can you get me a diaper for Sadie?" Him: "Yes, a diaper.".
I love the way he says what. "Hwhaht?"
Bob a deoder, YES WE CAN!
He asks, "You okay?" if he even remotely thinks you are hurt. It comes complete with a touch.
He LOVES cars and trucks and buses and things. Yesterday was a tender moment when he drove his little "tractor" as he calls it (the one in his hand in the picture), all over my body. Very sweet.

A few things I love about Sadie right now:

Her walk!
The way she dances! She bobs up and down, and shakes her hips back and forth. She might be my daughter. :-)
She is VERY thoughtful. Today she wanted a drink. I asked her to go get her cup from the room. Not only did she bring hers back, but she brought Jacksons too. And gave it to him. Do they understand that already?
I love how she sings the ABC's. Not very well, but she tries!
She too, does the "You okay?" thing. Hers sounds more like "kay? U kay?"

There are many more things. I don't want to bore you. Thank you to these kiddos mentioned above for letting me write this WHOLE post uninterrupted. Awesome! What a good day!

From Rags to Riches

2010-06-30T20:58:00.001-07:00

This blog is about two things.

Coupons. Im back in the business. Of saving. I dont want to brag, but I am going to. I hate bragging because it just makes other people feel bad. Anyway, i went to Safeway last night and saved 44 percent! Thats super great for me. I am usually a good shopper in that I watch for the cheapest item out of them all but Ive never gotten the concept of stocking up on the super duper cheap stuff! Until now!!

Id also like to be grateful. Grateful for my hub, work, money, and tithing. We went from having $.46 to having more than that. So grateful.

Now can I complain? I know I said It was about 2 things but I see I have more characters left before I hit 1000.

Here is my complaint! I hate complainers. lol. Okay, just people who complain about their trash. Really? You are going to waste your energy telling me, more than once, that you are mad your trash spilled? Because you didnt bag it! Dum. Just kidding. About the dum part.

This message has been sent using the picture and Video service from Verizon Wireless!

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Lovely Morning

2010-06-27T08:13:00.001-07:00

I have started on this new craze of waking up early to go walking. Its really awesome. And okay, the craze has been 2 days so far. lol. Yesterday my friend Belle came with me. We found a super awesome yard sale loaded with scrapbooking stuff. She got a bunch, I got a little. lol. That is only because I didnt have cash or space to store.

My kids are super cute. I am going to be that mom that now talks about her kids bowel movements. Ready? Jackson went pee in the potty!! Be excited. Its happened many times! We might be onto something. He will go if we ask him but still wants to wear diapers. I got him some pull-ups yesterday. David informed me that im not allowed to call them (and underwear) panties. Panties are for girls. I think its too late. Jackson says panties pretty well.

Well the naked girl in the picture is finished with her beauty rest so i better go.

Lessons in Grammar and Spelling: Vaycay vs. Vaca vs. Vacay

2010-06-21T13:10:00.000-07:00

How do you spell the short version of vacation? The answer lies below. You know how you say to your significant other or friends, "Let's go on a (insert short word for vacation)". Or, "You deserve a (insert short word again)." How do you spell it when you do write or text it? Let's discuss it below.

Vacay: If you were to pronounce this correctly it would sound like this, "vuh-kay". That sounds silly doesn't it?

Vaca: If you were to pronounce this one correctly it would sound like this, "vuh-kuh". And isn't this the Spanish word for cow? It's something like that.

Vaycay: Pronounced correctly, "vay-kay". Yay! Let's go on a vaycay! I LOVE vaycays.

While it does require and extra letter, it remains worth it to not look like an idiot when writing. Please use correctly.

I Get Good Views

2010-06-20T20:01:00.001-07:00

I like my house. I REALLY like my mortgage payment. I even more like my huge yard and the wood floors inside. And the big garage. Yeah. Im bragging. What I dont like? The outside. Okay, I do like it. Its sort of a shock when you get inside and its all remodeled and stuff. Thats the big secret. I dont mean to brag but I sort of do. lol. In a good way. I need to getan outside picture. Hopefully its not too dark. Ill try. So I got one. Ill edit this post when I get inside. I am really enjoying this view.

A few things.

Happy Fathers Day to my one and only. I maybe feel like that will be another post for another day. I dont want to overwhelm everyone with the gushiness. There is already a lot. Secondly, we had a party today for The dia of the padres and for Jacksons birthday. He is sweetm I love my family for helping with everything.

Thats all for now.

Yard Sale Time

2010-06-18T19:15:00.001-07:00

I think this might become my mommy blog. Is that annoying? I am sitting outside waiting for someone to come look at a couch that we picked up from the trash at work. I am actually sitting in it. We are going to make money off of something we got for free. lol.

I have so many thoughts running through my head. Its such a common phrase. However, I do. Do your thoughts run? Or walk? Or lightly jog? I think mine are usually running.

Jackson and David went to the Verde with Rebecca and Adam. So its just mi hija and I.

I best be going. I am having a yard sale. Come buy my stuff. thanks.

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2010-06-12T14:59:00.001-07:00

She sat on the floor and happily ate from a bag of chips.

We are driving home from Phx right now (me and my mom). People slow down so much for cops. Why cant they just go the speed limit?

I think we might catch the rain. We are so happy about that. I love the smell of ozone.

Why cant I be crafty? I love all you ladies who are super awesome moms and super crafty too.

Did you know I have a secret blog? Do you? I think thats why I havent been posting as much here. I wanna get back on track.

I would really enjoy some Leo's right now. Leo's is a hometown sandwish shop in Lock Haven. Its really so cute. When my friend Jaime came to visit we locked her in the bathroom. Sorry J. Its literally inside the walls. Like you walk inside the wall and there are toilets. I might be on a tangent right now.

I am almost out of characters. I hope the weekend is so great for you.

The Days of Our Lives

2010-05-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

I feel sort of giddy. I'm not really sure why either? Maybe it's the excitement of forthcoming events. If you would have talked to me yesterday though, I would have said something a lot different. It hurt my brain to think about all the changes and things that are occuring right now.

First of all, we are buying a house! Big big deal! It's a HUGE deal right? Yeah. It is.

Secondly, David all of a sudden has 2 jobs! That's crazy too.

Thirdly, I have a job still. And that makes for confusion when trying to schedule schedules. lol.

Fourthly, David is going to school. And doing ROTC. AND we just have to come up with like a gazillion dollars to pay for it. So that's big too right?

Fifthly, I can't think of another thing. But 5 is a good, round, solid number. I bet you thought I was gonna say something about having another baby huh?

So with all of that being said, there is SO much to plan and be excited for! The most exciting thing for me is the house situation. I'm gonna have a house where I can paint the walls!!! That has been my life dream since forever. It's really super small (but very cute) and I can't wait to figure out how to fit everything. The yard is amazing. I can't wait to have yard parties with bonfires and processed meat. Come over! It will be so fun.

My Homeboy

2010-05-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

I had a "moment" yesterday in church. It wasn't something even remotely fantastical. But it maybe was for me. I kind of decided that I want to be good again. Not that I am not, but I want to be better.

I love Jesus. I love God. I want them to be a part of my daily life. Again, not that they aren't, but I will make a more conscious effort to let them in more often. I remember when my sister said to me that God is at the door waiting for me. And what are my reasons for not letting Him in? I don't have any.

It sort of made me cry. I talked to David on the way home from church about this. And at first, I didn't really wanna talk about it because I didn't want to cry. But I did talk about it. And I only got a bit teary eyed.

I am blessed.

I think I might be on the edge which makes me even more emotional. The edge of what you ask? The edge of everything! I started ANOTHER diet today. I hate it. I hate it more than I hate anything. It makes me cranky and cranky and cranky. David said he might force feed me if I don't stop. lol (Here are the negative thoughts for today). I just wish I wasn't fat and that people didn't hate fat people. I KNOW people look at me and wonder where I went wrong. Where did skinny Lisa go?

Maybe she went away after she got married. Or maybe it was her dad dying in her house, or maybe after moving across the country, or having a baby, or _________ (this very personal, awful event), or another baby, moving back to AZ, or some other reason (which it most likely is. Like, I got careless and lazy).

I want that Lisa back just as much as you do.

These are my super most inner thoughts. They are so conflicting. I love God. but I hate myself. How does that make sense? God loves me. SO much. So why can't I love me?

All Boxed Up

2010-05-10T20:40:00.001-07:00

Jackson loves his cousin "Steppy". They climbed in the box together, on their own, without help. Sort of a really cute moment. They play so well together. I think its because she is very patient with Jackson. He was playing with some blocks and so she says, "When Jackson is done, I will make a slide." How nice!

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My Superman

2010-05-07T19:34:00.001-07:00

Is he not so cute? I dont even have words for him. Such a sweet sweet boy. Lately his thing is singing the ABC's. "Mommy. ABC's?"

Thank you aunt J for the jammies!

Swing Swing From the Tangles of my Heart

2010-05-07T19:28:00.001-07:00

Sadie rode in the big girl swing today. So crazy. Right now she is in the strapped in one. I think she might be falling asleep.

Never Knowing What to Call These

2010-05-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

Sadie is on my lap. She is sassy.

Jackson was in my lap yesterday. I feel like these days are precious. The times where they sit in your lap. And just sit. These days? They won't last forever. Especially since kids grow SO fast.

Someone threw away an entire dumpster full of candy and soda and snacks. David and his mama went dumpster diving. They brought home Mike n' Ikes (I don't know how to spell that), Ding-Dongs and Air Heads. And they all taste good! David said there were some things they couldn't salvage like the pretzels. They got oil in them.

Yesterday was Monday. It totally felt like one too. I may have said some mean things in my head.

David is at work. I will go to work soon too. In fact, I better get ready right now. What are you doing today?

Does anyone know how to work TypePad? Or whatever? I want my site to be cool. How do I do it?

Happy First Day of May, Except It's the Second.

2010-05-02T08:45:00.000-07:00

Well friends, how goes it?

I live with the abominable Sadie. She is a really cute one though.

So is this one. lol

We took some beer over to the parents house last night. We didn't say much until people started noticing. It was quite funny. I wonder how many people wanted to drink some. I know I did. Just kidding.

We got it for the guy who is fixing our car. It's a friend of a friend and he told us not to pay him, but to get him beer. I think paying the $11.00 for some Pacifico was better than paying a $100 for some other guy to do the same thing. Good times. So now we will have air conditioning! Yay!

I don't think there is much else to report at this time. Well there is, but not right now.

These Things I'll Never Say

2010-04-29T12:42:00.000-07:00

This is my second day home in a row. ALL DAY. Alone with kids. David is working working. As in, he can't really leave when he wants. It's sort of crazy. Brings me back to the University of Phoenix days. Those were hard ones. I had Chelsi to keep me somewhat sane.

I want(ed) this right? I do, and I did. I just can't remember what it's like. It's hard!

So far today? Spaghetti spilled. All over. Phone in the toilet. Awesome.

They are eating chicken nuggets right now. Which is why I get to be writing.

I have so many feelings in my head. One specific one? I want everyone to stop bragging about their weight loss. BLAH!

I think my depression is flaring up today. Like it's asthma or something. I'm having a depression attack. lol.

I shouldn't of said that. Because people use it as an excuse for certain behaviors. Someone I know was mentioning something about a friend of ours and said something like, "Well, it's because she suffers from depression." And I wanted to say back, "Uh, you're an idiot."

It's time to watch The Hills. the kids are sleeping.

I Can't Find a Good Title for This Post, Plus I Like Caps Lock

2010-04-28T15:02:00.000-07:00

I was feeling guilty for not writing enough spiritual things on my blog. Specifically about the good things I have been blessed with, etc. In fact, I spend most of my time complaining on this here blog.

Then I stopped feeling guilty because it doesn't matter!

My relationship with God is entirely personal and what other people perceive of that relationship is TOTALLY none of their business or mine, for that matter.

I have been reading other peoples blogs about their journey with the LDS religion (most of them on their way out). I think it is entirely interesting. And in a way, I envy them. Not because they are leaving, but because they are doing it for themselves! It's not that they hate the church (they're not bashers), they just are taking the time to explore what their core beliefs are. It makes me feel happy for them. It makes me feel that I am okay for not agreeing with so much of the church culture. And that's what it is for me, culture of the Church.

I can seperate it though. Sometimes my lines cross and I start to wonder what the heck I'm doing, but most of the time I can deaw the line between what is real and what is not. People (especially my non-LDS friends/family) don't understand how I can remain in a religion that I have so many issues with. And that is my answer. I know where my boundaries are. But sometimes my answer is, I have no idea!

My testimony comes from the basics. Jesus Christ as my Savior, God as the Father, Priesthood on the earth today, temple work, blessings of tithing, following the commandments, scriptures, etc.. Sometimes though, I get caught up in drama, but hey, doesn't everyone?

As for now, I'm in.

Fat Girls

2010-04-23T16:51:00.000-07:00

Revealing post here we come!

There are 3 types of women:

A) Big girls that want to be skinny.

B) Skinny girls that want to be skinnier (I call them skinny chubis).

C) Women who are completely comfortable with where they are.

I want to fall in to category C. Ugh.

I know a woman who is a big girl. She LOVES it though. She is completely satisfied with the size she is, and people know that. Men know that, women know it, her kids know it. And I love her for it. She should be a spokeswoman for big girls everywhere. I use the term "girls" to include women, teenagers, people in general. Anyway, why do we always want what we don't have?

I know another woman who has also impacted me with her own saying, "If you don't like the way I/it/my house looks, look away!" Love that too!

It sort of irks me that I feel an 'expectation' to be skinny because, I was once! I was 120 pounds skinny. I don't know that I ever want to be that small again. It was in high school. I do want to be healthy though.

hCG works! I did it for about 12 days and lost 10 pounds! It was incredible. It was also miserable. I couldn't eat with my family. I missed Easter with David's family, and also a GREAT enchilada dinner with my family (a five layer chocolate cake included). Okay, so I didn't "miss" the events. I was there, but I was also not there. People were socializing and eating and laughing and I was growling. Literally. Well not really. But my stomach was. Do you realize how much our(my) world revolves around food??? Craziness.

I learned a huge lesson though! I really did. I feel like I learned what I needed to learn from hCG. That I don't need tons of processed foods! On the hCG diet you eat 500 calories a day. 2 meats, 2 veggies, 2 fruits and 2 small (very small) breads. And that's what it should be! Not neccesarily the 500 calories, but whole foods.

I'm back to Weight Watchers. I can eat what I want, but just less of it. And I have to pick and choose what I want to spend my points on.

I'm excited to be on a journey. And while I'm on it, I don't want to talk about it. Really. I don't. Maybe I shouldn't of said anything in the first place, but just for me, I needed to get it out there. My journey isn't one of becoming skinny (although that would be nice), but it's one of self-discovery and confidence. I want to love myself once again. Even if I don't lose a pound, I want to lose my negativity. Towards others, and towards myself.

It hurts my feelings when people brag about their awesomeness when it comes to working out, eating salads everyday and running 10 miles in 5 minutes. I know, I know. It shouldn't matter. And again, that's part of thise journey. To be happy for other people and their success! Because I know so many people that are happy for me!

Well, that's all for now. Guess what? I'm going to work out! Whoop.

Words in my Head

2010-04-22T09:32:00.000-07:00

So I'm feeling feisty today. Are you ready for that?

I have a cold. And for some reason that makes me feel like I can say what I want. I can't talk well. When I answer the phones at work not only do I sound like a raspy man, I sound like a sicko. An actual sicko. "Udiedet Disposal, cad I helmp you?.....Do you have your accout dumber?"

David spelled jeans, jeens. lol. So funny. And cute. I like to spell meet like meat. It always throws people off. Can you meat me there? Theres a couple other words I like to spell wrong. Some are inappropriate for young eyes.

Deep inside, I want to climb the corporate ladder. I think it would be exciting. I also feel like I am smart. I have a degree you know. I want to get my masters degree. But right now it's Davids turn. And don't worry, I'm not giving up my dreams so he (as in, "the man") can be number one. It's because it really is his time. He supported me through my degree, it's time for me to do the same.

Also, I do love my kids. I want to be with them especially bad right now. Through some gossip I found out that one of my family members (an in-law) said that I don't want to be a mom, that I only want a career. Rude. It's not even true. If you want the truth I'll tell you. I don't LOVE being a full time mom. But I do LOVE being a mom to my kids. So shut your mouth. Well not you specifically, unless you are the one that said that.

This is now officially a couple days old. It's time to post. :-)

2010-04-17T19:29:00.001-07:00

We went on a hike today. Well right now we are hiking. It is sort of spur of the moment as you can tell by the shoe situation.

Jackson has flip-flops on.

David has on shiny cowboy boots (that he acquired today from a itinerant).

I have pointy toed shoes on.

Sadie has NO shoes on. lol

We are trying our best to avoid the cactii. Is that really right? Cacti? Cactuses? lol.

A Day

2010-04-15T11:03:00.001-07:00

This is David. We are on our way to my grandpas funeral. Grandpa Menlove. Sad. But happy right? I am sure he is so happy to be with his love.

Sunglasses are courtesy of the .99 cent store. Got them on our way to San Diego with Hannah and Steven. :-)

The Sadie

2010-04-13T22:36:00.001-07:00

She looks like an angel right? Well she is. Not. lol. kidding. She is sort of a princess though. Do they have a parenting class on dealing with divas? I think I will invent one if not.

To Janell

2010-04-13T22:12:00.001-07:00

This is my Jackson. I think he looks like his cousin. Its for Janell because she taught me how to do this blogging from the phone.

It's Time for Me to Brag

2010-04-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

Just like we all do sometimes, it's time. To be proud. And happy! Drum roll please........

David got accepted to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University! He will pursue a degree in Global Security & Intelligence Studies. I know right? Talk about popularity. He is fancy.

I won't lie, it's totally expensive to attend. But we will find a way! David just let me know that we aren't allowed to get private loans anymore because ALL loans are now government loans. Awesome. Makes me so happy. But then again, maybe it hasn't gone into effect yet. Can I borrow some of your money? I don't pay interest, or late fees. But I will pay you back. Eventually. Like in 10 years when we are rich and famous.

Are you excited I'm posting pictures? It's a big day! I'm actually doing it RIGHT after this moment happened. He went and got the mail, brought it home, we opened it and now here are the pictures. It really happens like that. Well, I wish it did. See, that's the thing, why can't pictures just automatically update and write for themselves? Yup.

Are you judging me because I am so cheesy on this blog? I usually hate people who are so braggy and disgusting. But I think I am allowed because it's for my hubby loveness. Go him!! So proud. So proud.

Oh Remember, Remember

2010-04-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

I can't figure out how to make my writing be alligned to the right. I just did. So, this could be a sad post, but it's not going to be. Or maybe it might be. I never know how to feel around this time of year. I feel sad, but I feel happy. My dad died, but it's my anniversary. Hmm... what feelings right?

So lots of things. We spent Friday (actual anniversary day) at the Fancy Dance. I got an awesome calling as the activities committee chairwoman. Super fun! And perfect for me I think. So we threw a Fancy Dance. We had a great DJ and awesome decorations, and lots of dancing, and food and most of all, FUN FUN FUN people. We all danced. Oh my. I wish you could have come. Thanks to everyone that helped. For real.

We picked the 25th as the day my dad died. We don't really know what day it actually was. I didn't want it to be my anniversary, so the day before was a better choice. We came home from our anniversary trip (to Vegas) and he was already dead. I hate that word. Dead. It's so terrible. And passed away? That's not much better. Anyone have a better, more uplifing word for death and dying? lol. Probably not.

I remember when we picked up my dad. From the funeral home. In a box. He sat on my lap on the way to Utah to have a memorial service for him. The box is heavy. I wonder if we should spread his ashes somewhere. I am grateful to my mom for paying for everything. She paid for everything. And she wasn't even married to him. Paid for the cremation, the urn, the trip to Utah, everything. Thanks Mom.

My heart races every time I talk to someone about him dying. How do you explain to someone without it being awkward, that you came home to your dad dead on your couch? I remember that day clear as anything. I remember climbing on the couch, shaking him to wake up. He looked like he was sleeping. I remember Becky coming over, her being the calm in the storm. Mom and Darrell came too. He hugged me as I cried. I had to call my sister Steph. That was hard. It's not the end I know, but in my life, in that day, it was the end. If for just a moment. My friend Tracy lost her dad too. She said something so profound to me. She said that time doesn't heal the pain, it just makes it LESS painful.

My grandpa died too (my dad's dad). Just recently in fact. How cool is it to think that they are chillin' right now together? I bet they are digging some great trenches or something. It's not until you lose someone close to you, that you really come to understand God's plan for us. It becomes VERY real . I am happy to know that we will all get to be together again someday.

I have been working on this blog for a long time. I think it's time that I publish it. I don't feel like I have written enough about it though. There are so many things in my head that I want to get out. Maybe I'll go write another one?

I hate not posting for awhile

2010-03-10T16:35:00.000-08:00

I am clocked out of work and waiting for hubby to pick me up. Sadie started walking last night. She really can do it! She is a smart girl but chooses when to show it. She is what..... 15.5 months old. I know what all of you are thinking. And I don't care that your child walked at 10 months. Actually, I do. But I sort of don't. Sure, I think it's great but every kid is different. That's something I have really come to know in the last little while.

My kidneys hurt. And this always happens around "that time". Can anyone explain to me why? It's really weird.

I am starving. I am also going to do the HCG diet. Except I didn't really want to say that outloud because when I'm all skinny and stuff I want everyone to wonder how I did it. And I want to be able to say that I did it all on my own and that I am wonderwoman. However, that's not likely and not reality. I've been doing research and I will be smart. I told David about it and he thinks its a terrible idea. In fact he said, "I do not support you." lol. It's funny because in EVERYthing else, his usual statement is "I support you". I guess we will see.

Someone at work makes comments about my weight. I know he has the best intentions, but he doesn't really know how to be .... correct about it. I'm not sure if its his age or what, but I am about ready to punch him in the face. It's really not my business what he thinks about me but it's also not his business to say anything!

Jackson still won't potty train. "Jackson, do you wanna use the potty?" His response "No." Except he says it concisely and to the point. It's really funny and sort of cute.

I can't ever remember it being blizzardly and cold in March in AZ. Am I just forgetting that or what? The weather seriously changes every 5 minutes. No exaggeration here.

Me and my sister-in-law (I hate that term) and her sister and sister-in-law went to see When In Rome. I LOVED it. Go watch it. Right now. Well you can't because it's still in theaters and you probably have some reason for why you can't get out of your chair and go. But I hope you get to! Also, when you go, don't forget to go with at least 3 people to Harkins. Because when you buy a $25 gift card, you get a free popcorn. So buy the card, use it immediately and get free stuff. I'm smart huh?

Hubby should be here soon. We will be cooking for his bro who just moved here. And by we, I mean he. It should be fun. We now have 5 of 8 siblings within reach! Come back Hanayyay and Bad, and Hannah and Jarrett, Lisa and Blaine! We miss you!

I have Goodwill, Do You?

2010-02-13T16:37:00.000-08:00

I feel like an old woman. The only time I get to shop is on the weekends. And by shop I mean go to Goodwill. Today was the fifty percent off day. I LOVE it. I got $40 dollars worth of stuff for, yup, $20. Be jealous. I got books, and clothes (for kids because well, I'm not buying anything till I drop 30 more pounds), DVD's and cards. I think that's it. I should go look. Hang on. A mirror and a toy. Phew. Fun stuff. In fact, I have a picture. Let me get it.

Everyone thought she was so cute. And she was (is). Well, I'm tired and need to go make invitations for the Red and White Ball. It's gonne be hoppin'. If you live in Paulden and want to come, It's gonna be on Saturday February 27th at 7:00 p.m. at our church. Dancing and fun. Please come. Get it? It rhymes.

Squinty Eyes Make Me Mad

2010-02-11T17:31:00.000-08:00

If I had it my way, I would leave town right now. Yup. That's how I feel. I suppose it's my own fault but it seems easier to blame everyone else. My kids are banging on my bedroom window. From the inside don't worry.

Oh. My. Goodness. Cutest moment of my life so far. Sadie was awake with me in bed the other morning. Jackson was asleep on the floor. He woke up, saw Sadie, and they gave each other a kiss. It was SO cute. It was like they were saying, "Good Morning, I'm happy to see you" except in less words. :-)

Jaime Jyna is here. We are having a good time. I met her while I was in college through my roommate Genie. We have had so much fun together through the years. She lived in NY (upstate) while I was in PA and we got to visit each other. Her hubby serves in the Army right this second. Like in the center of it all. She is here visiting me while he is gone. I totally admire her. She has a baby and he is cute. He is one month younger than Sadie. They don't love each other yet, but they will. Today he gave her a very romantic kiss and she actually accepted it. Beyond that though, they can usually be found pushing each other around. I'd say it's a love/hate relationship.
I got a new phone. It's the EnV3. I enjoy it mucho. Although I really don't know if I like the QWERTY keyboard. Do you like it?

My hair is greasy. I need to shower. It's sort of impossible though. David is working right now and these children hate when we shower. Jackson only hates it if he isn't involved and Sadie, she just hates it. She cries when I get in. It's like she thinks I am going to disappear behind the curtain and never come back. Sometimes I want to.

I am doing Weight Watchers. I am loving it. It's only been a couple weeks. Well one week. I am still waiting for the hunger pains to go away. Will that ever happen? I know I can eat more, but not really. I did make some zero point soup. It's all gone though. I'm gonna have a yogurt! The Fiber One kind. I think they are zero points too. Yup.

Well, I am going to post some pictures on my other blog. Check it out:

Photos by LisANDavid