So Random!

How ya been?

2009-07-05T23:32:00.000-07:00

Me? I've been running around with my head chopped off. As usual. Isn't that a normal mommy type thing to be doing? :0)
To catch you all up to speed.....I'll go through it real quick......

I only have three weeks left of class and then I will be officially done with my associates program. I will have an actual college degree. I'm pretty sure there may need to be some celebrating going on at some point around the end of July to commemmorate the occasion. The bachelor's program starts up only three weeks later, so there isn't much "free" time to spare.

I chopped most of my hair off, and because I'm hoping that blondes really do have more fun, I went back to my old blonde hair. It's fun to watch people not recognize me for a minute until they realize that it really is me, it's just not "my" hair. :0) Good stuff.

Jaysen will be leaving me for the second time in two months to run off to some fabulous spot for training in his field. This time he's gone for almost the entire week. :0( We are going to miss him.

Took a friend shoe shopping and ended up convincing her to buy four pairs of shoes. The hubby was not too thrilled about the dollar amount spent, but he does think her sassy cute new plaid ballet flats are wicked awesome. :0)

Four weeks of swimming lessons have finally been taken care of. Now we are on to basketball camp for my son and still getting through dance and tumbling for my daughter.

Work is getting tedious and ridiculous. The hubby knows....he's my boss. :0) Well one of them anyway. My workload has practically doubled, and I am continually harangued by those who could get the information themselves, but are too lazy to do so. I think I need a raise. :0 ) I'll go tell my boss.

Sigh.

Life just keeps on trucking along. So far I seem to be able to keep up with all of it. We'll see how long that lasts.

Toddler for sale.....

2009-06-17T21:26:00.000-07:00

I wish I could say she was cheap, but that would be false advertisement. Between swimming lessons, dance class, and a shoe fetish like her mother.....this little one can take a huge chunk out your pocketbook.

But after today.....I would be willing to simply hand her over to you. For free.

This girl is going to give me gray hairs I tell you. Since when did the terrible twos become the terrible threes and soon to be the terrible fours? When does the terrible go away? I don't remember my son EVER being so dramatic. And the temper tantrums she can throw....holy cow! It's like the flick of a switch too. She can turn it on or off at will. My mommy brain is fried. Is it bad that I wanted to just lock her in her room today? Of course, no such thing happened. But the thought did pass through my mind. :0)

Sigh.

I need a margarita.

Sh! It's a secret!

2009-06-07T20:56:00.001-07:00

It's June. I'm sure you knew that already....

but did you know that it also means that my birthday is coming up in just a few short weeks? This year marks my 30th birthday. But....

SSSHHHHHHH! Don't tell anyone.

Because honestly......I don't want anymore birthdays. I knew this birthday would be different from the others for me, but I didn't think I would be having this hard of a time with it. I don't feel old, nor do I think that 30 is old. I just feel like I'm in between places right now. I know it sounds random....but I'm wondering.....does a new decade mean I can't try to pull off "Young and sassy" anymore? I'm not going to be in my 20's anymore. The 20's are fun and exciting...right? Except for that I became a mom at 20 and so my fun consisted of Blue's Clues and Spiderman. Now that I don't have an infant in the home any longer....I feel the urge to act a bit more immaturely and want to just have some fun. You know, be crazy.....{as crazy as a mom can get anyway}. But then I remember.....I'm going to be 30. I told the hubby that I felt like I couldn't pull off cute and sassy because I felt like I was supposed to look a certain way now. What certain way you ask? Not a clue. I'm not old. But I have a kid who's almost 10 years old. So, how do you mix motherhood and being young and sassy?

Random thoughts....I know.

I also told the hubby that he was forbidden to celebrate my birthday this year. The present is still expected :0), but nothing else. I don't want the birthday. Maybe if there is no birthday we can all just pretend like I stayed 29. :0)

What do I want for my birthday you ask? Why....what every woman who has had children wants.....

My 18 year old body back!

A little lift and a little tuck.....put everything back into place. I'm not talking sucking or sculpting.....just no more sagging and excess skin. Sheesh....

The hubby says it's not going to happen. He did perk up when I told him I may be willing to enhance certain features if he would fork out the cash for the lifting and tucking. In fact, his exact words were, "Really? So how big we talking?" Such a pervert he is. :0) Alas....he still said this was not the year for any sort of enhancing. I may have to settle for something else.

As long as I don't have to turn 30. But, you all know how to keep a secret anyway right? Just remember.....

Ashlee is 29.......Ashlee is 29......Ashlee is 29......Ashlee is 29.......

Let the chaos begin!

2009-06-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

May the HORSE be with you

Morningside Mustangs 2009

I put this on a white tshirt for my son for his last day of school today. His elementary school's mascot is the mustangs and he is obsessed with Lego Star Wars, so I found this quite fitting for him. I sent him off armed with a fabric marker so that all of his friends could sign his shirt.

What does the last day of school mean? It means summer vacation officially has begun. It means my baby is in the 4th grade now. It means......keeping a nine year old entertained for the next three months. I've tried to keep it pretty low key, but after filling in the calendar it seems like I wasn't quite able to pull that off. Go figure. Between swimming lessons for both kids, dance and tumbling for the daughter, basketball camp for the son, golf clinics for the son, and I'm still in school myself.....not to mention that the hubby is going to be gone for part of the summer taking his own set of courses at various locations. I feel tired already......

Oh Happy Day!

2009-05-20T20:20:00.000-07:00

Did you see my boyfriend win American Idol tonight? Yes, it's true....I have a slight crush on the boy. I've loved him since Week 1, but when he broke out "Falling Slowly".....I was his forever.

Don't worry....my hubby is fully aware of my obsession with Kris. Though I'm married to the hubby....Kris sings TO ME. Wait...you thought he was singing to you? {stiffling giggles} Well, he wasn't. He was singing to me all these months. What am I going to do now that I can't get my Kris fix on tv every week? Good thing I've bought most of his songs off of iTunes already.....he can sing to me all day, every day.......

Kudos to me!

2009-05-16T12:20:00.000-07:00

I'm totally going to brag in this post...just a forewarning. :0)

I am in week 8 out of 9 in this set of classes. These two are the hardest ones in my program, and therefore have been quite challenging. Thankfully, the subject matter has to do with my major and so it interests me. Anyway, as most of you know I am a titch OCD. :0) I like things to be just so. I like schedules and sticking to them. I like knwoing what's going on WELL in advance and don't handle last minute changes well. I also am a bit freakish over my homework assignments. I am a perfectionist in this area. The wording, phrasing, EVERYTHING must be just so. The thesaurus has become my best friend.
Well, I just got back one of my papers from last week and my professor left me a happy little note at the bottom of the grading rubric.

Ashlee, I see in your work a student who should consider graduate school.

OK, so it wasn't like she was chanting my name or anything....but the little pat on the back was so rewarding. The other notes and tidbits she left throughout the paper as well as her praise of my thoughts on the subject matter within the paper didn't hurt either. She said that I offered especially GOOD ADVICE to my mock patients because I offered them a positive outlook and extended hope without passing negative judgments. {Ashlee is beaming}
It hasn't crossed my mind that I just WOULDN'T go to graduate school, but the added bonus of praise from a teacher who has been so nitpicky about my assignments made me so proud of myself. I know, I know....not supposed to be prideful. But poo on that! I'm proud of myself. Juggling school, kids, work, family, and life in general has been quite a challenge for me. There are honestly some days I would really like to just stay in bed because of what was on my to-do list for that day.
So, a pat on the back for me today. I will need it as I am approaching yet another finals week.

Bridge Over Troubled Water

2009-05-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is going to be totally random....but that is the point of this blog right? :0)
As many of you know, my friend has been in the hospital all week. She was finally able to go home today. I've been just a tad bit preoccupied by it. :0) This isn't the first friend to be rushed to the emergency room these past few weeks either. It is almost surreal to see some of my closest friends having such a hard time. I honestly can't remember the last time I actually CRIED "for real", but I've done that a couple of times here recently. Life is so fragile and it scares me. One moment the world goes by as it usually does, and the very next it's almost as if you are in a different reality.
Anyway....I was thinking about all of this and looking at my "circle" and I kind of wondered....have I formed actual lasting relationships with people? I don't usually let people get too deep into my freakishness :0). I'm pretty sure I would scare off most people. Sure, I let them see glimpses, but for the most part I try to keep it pretty low key. {Low key according to Ashlee that is}
In my classes it is mentioned over and over again about how one of the major aspects of the healing process is the love and support that is offered. Having that support system relieves a lot of the excess pressure and lets the person know that they are not alone in their struggles. I'm not talking Relief Society love and support either {not that I would ever turn down a free meal from the Relief Society} :0)
For me, that almost seems like assigned support. I'm talking about the love and support from people that really know you....but they still love you anyway. :0) It's made me wonder....in my attempt to stay somewhat "aloof" in my relationships, have I prevented myself from having the kind of relationships that I would hope for if I was put in the position that my friends are in right now?
I know....another "deep thoughts" post here. My brain is on overdrive right now. I feel like I've been running around with my head chopped off. But honestly, I can't say that I would change any of the chaos. :0) I think I have put more miles on my car in this last month than I have in the last year. I have truly enjoyed having a sense of purpose though. I would do it for any of you....and I'm not even kidding. You need me....call me. I'm there.
Anyway....sorry for another late night rambling from me. Enjoy a bit of Simon and Garfunkel. They are truly a classic duo. :0)

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T19:21:00.000-07:00

http://news.cnnbcvideo.com/?nid=8CI3l4RuDmp9bSfV3zmVZTEyNjk2MTgx&referred_by=16143513-_r1gS3x&p=moveon

My sister-in-law sent this to me. My son thought it was for real and was amazed that I was on the news. :0) I did eventually let him in on the joke, but only after he truly believed that I was the Mother of the Year for at least 5 whole minutes. :0)

Happy Mother's Day to all of you!

17 Again

2009-05-02T00:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, I went to see this movie tonight. Yes, it was kind of a tweenie movie. BUT! I will say, Jaysen and I did get some laughs out of dear old Uncle Ned. More importantly, it was a warm and fuzzy movie. I am seeing so many kids in high school, or just getting out of high school that are having such a hard time. It breaks my heart for them. This movie was different from some of the other tweenie kind because it pushed for what was good and right.

Mike O'Donnell is the main character. He is the father of two teenagers, but ends up getting turned back into a teenager. The only person that knows about the transformation is Uncle Ned. The quote is from teenager father who is talking to his teenage daughter because her boyfriend dumped her. Apparently the scum told her that if she wouldn't show him how much she loved him then he would break up with her. So, she was heartbroken even though she was so great for standing up for herself. Then teenage daddy comes along to make her feel better

Mike O' Donnell: When you're young everything feels like the end of the world. But it's not it's just the beginning, you might have to meet a few more jerks. but one day you're gonna meet a boy who treats you the way you deserve to be treated. Like the sun rises and sets with you.

Teenage dad helped give his son the courage to try out for the basketball team. Helped him to stand up to the school bully.

Anyway....blah blah blah I know....but I thought it was a cute show. Was it wicked awesome and everyone should run out and watch it? Maybe....maybe not. I will tell you that Zac Efron has a killer 6 pack. WOW.....Not that I was looking or anything. {Love you Jaysen!}

My apologies....

2009-04-28T15:17:00.000-07:00

I totally suck at posting lately....time is not something I have in excess. :0) Besides....we have happened to have a few gorgeous days mixed in with the freaky random hailstorms and so I have lived part of my days outdoors. I'm craving me some more sunshine.
Moving on.....

Can I just tell you how excited I am about girls night for May? Why? Because it's 80s night. "Oh yes it's ladies night,
and the feelings right,
oh yes it's ladies night,
oh what a, OH WHAT A NIGHT."
Oh yeah! I am currently gathering all of the essential 80s fashions so that I can look my 80s best. You know, totally radical stuff. Wanna see one of my best finds so far?....

That's right people.....I'm going Madonna/Cyndi Lauper style. {mine are the pink ones BTW}

What was interesting to me though.....was that these things are actually being sold in stores right now. I mean....seriously. Are these really coming back in style?

Anyway.....now I just need someone to tell me where I can find a radical pair of jelly shoes. Any suggestions?

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-22T14:29:00.000-07:00

I took the kids down to Shoshone Falls last night so they could see the waterfalls. Apparently they are the biggest they have been in about 10 years. It was so gorgeous down there I could have stayed all night.

That is not fog or smoke in the picture, it is actually the mist coming from the waterfalls to the right. Crazy, huh?

Moulin Rouge

2009-04-21T11:25:00.001-07:00

The hubby and I just watched this movie again the other night and honestly, I just can't get enough of it. I LOVE THIS MOVIE. I know it's not for everyone.....and it's a musical.....but really....it's awesome.

These are two of my favorite songs from the movie.

Anyway...just thought I'd share...

are you for real?

2009-04-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

What is wrong with this picture?

How about the fact that there are several inches of snow covering everything outside.

How about the fact that it was in the 70s just a few days ago.

How about the fact that my hubby mowed the lawn two days ago.

How about the fact that it is freaking April 15 and not January! Is this for real? Bring back the sun! I'm ready to play outside again!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-08T11:59:00.001-07:00

Unique Freak

2009-04-06T21:35:00.000-07:00

I slept so crappy last night. Of course, this means I wake up groggy and still tired. Because I am a mommy I still have no choice but to get out of bed. I have work today, the sprinkler man starts today, and I have a parent/teacher conference after school. Busy stuff. I'm half blind and so I wear contacts. I've worn them for 15 years. Nothing new right? Over the years my eyes have grown tired of being suffocated by contacts and so I have been forced to buy/wear the slightly more expensive daily contacts. Honestly, even though they cost a bit more, I LOVE them. Before dailies my eyes were always sore and I felt like I had rocks in my eyes. Actually, it ended up being irritated eye lids. Weird huh? Yeah...apparently the insides of my eye sockets HATED contacts and wished to let me know by forming small bumps on my eye lids. I'm a freak.....I know. So, dailies it was and I love that every morning I get to put in a fresh pair of contacts and then I just throw them away at night. No washing, no storing, no stressing over a lost contact.
This morning, as with every other morning, started with a fresh pair of contacts. I always put the right contact in first. Why? No idea. But that's the way it's supposed to be.....just go with it. Moving on to the left eye here....OUCH! Put in contact, searing pain in eye....so, pull out contact. Rinse with contact solution and put back in eye. A bit better, but the eye is still a bit sore. I chalk it up to irritation from the initial insertion of said contact.
My morning progresses....off to work. Eye is still bothering me a bit. I rub it, put eye drops in, and scan the surface of my eye ball searching for a fleck of WHATEVER the crap it could be that is making my eye have a boo-boo. Eye starts to feel worse. What the heck?!?! Go home....am so irritated I move straight to the pantry to look for chocolate. Dang me and my decision to NOT buy sweets so I wouldn't be tempted to eat them.
Rub eye.....
HOLY HECK! Burning! Eye pain! Can't see out of my left eye!
Run to the bathroom....check the eyeball. Contact is MIA. Finally find it underneath the lower eyelid. Only problem is that it is only half of the contact. Eye is still burning. I dig out the other half of the contact. Eye is now oozing watery tears. Dang it! Now I can see out of one eye and am half blind in the other. Just what I need.....
It hurts to blink. So, the obvious choice is to just NOT blink. Right? The pain will eventually go away. Of course, what do you do when your eye is oozing and stinging like poison ivy? You check your email! Duh! Coincidentally {or maybe it was fate......} my friend was online too and sent me an IM about girls night. Being the good friend that I am, I change the subject and whine about my eye. Friend freaks, tells me to go to the eye doctor before I scratch my eye and cause damage.
WHATEVER CRAZY FRIEND! I am just fine, it just hurts a litte bit {A LOT} and it will feel better soon.
Phone rings....it's the crazy friend. :0) Apparently I have no choice, I MUST call the doctor and I MUST drop my daughter off at her house whilst I go to the doctor. Gentle nudging she calls it. So, I call doc, get appointment, drop off daughter to the crazy friends house :0) and go see doctor. The office lady looks at me like I'm a weirdo. Is my eye red? NOPE. Do I look like my eye is under SEVERE duress? NOPE. But hey....I just really wanted to go see my eye doctor. I've missed him terribly so. So, office lady....BACK OFF!
I am led into the examination room and climb into "the chair". Explain my sad story to the doctor man. He wants to shine a light into my eye. He is humoring me.
After being blinded by extremely bright lights he tells me, "Yeah, it looks like you've scratched your eye somehow."
HAH! All you eye doctor people! Poo on you!
My eye is still hurting like the dickens....even moreso now that the eye doctor man drips some yellow crap into my eye to get a "better look" at the scratch. Nothing like having something poured into an open wound on your eyeball.
He wants to know if I was sure I got all of the pieces of the contact out of my eye. Um, I think so. I didn't really line up the two pieces to see if they fit together like a puzzle. My eye was kind of oozing at that point. So, he figures he better check to make sure that there isn't anything left in my eye.
Have you ever had your eyelid flipped inside out? It doesn't hurt, but it definitely feels wierd.

Just so you are following here....scratched eyeball, yellow crap poured into scratch, and eyelid turned inside out. "Look down" he says. I do and then hear, "Oh, here's the problem. Hold still, this might feel wierd." I'm thinking wierd like having my eyelid turned inside out. Yeah...no. He takes some tweezers, pokes them into my eye and literally PLUCKS out something from inside my eyelid. Then I hear, "Wow. I have never seen anything quite like that before." What? What haven't you seen? I'm still strapped in with my eyelid inside out looking down. He checks for anthing else, but at this point I am apparently free and clear.
I blinked. It didn't hurt. Hallelujah!
Then I hear, "Yeah, I just have never seen anything like that before." {Didn't he just say that?} I ask him if it was some huge thing he found. He grabs the tweezers and holds them up in the light for me. A little plastic sliver.....that's what it was. I had gotten a sliver embedded in my eyelid. How does one do that? Seriously!
I think he tells me he has never seen anything like that before three more times before I leave his office. Apparently it's NOT normal to get a sliver inside your eyelid. I can safely assume that this means that not many people have had a doctor shove a freaking pair of tweezers inside their eye to pluck a sliver out. You know, like you would if you had a sliver on your finger. Can I just tell you that it hurt like a mother! Sigh.
Apparently if something NOT normal is going to happen, it's going to happen to me. I also had to have my jaw, neck, upper back, and rib put back into place by my chiropractor today. I'm feeling really old people......
For my crazy friend.....
The doctor said he was really glad that I came in so quickly to get it taken care of because it could have caused a lot more damage to my eye than it did. So, you can tell me I told you so all you want. My eyeball thanks you. :0) And thanks for taking my daughter. I appreciate your willingness to help out this one-eyed unique freak here.
Thankfully I should be back in tip top shape tomorrow. If not, eye doctor says the scratch will end up infected and I'll have to go and visit him again. Good odds right? :0)
I'll keep you posted. :0)

The Sky is Blue?

2009-04-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

Sadly, I had almost forgotten the sky was supposed to be blue and not gray. :0) This weekend has been so gorgeous. Fifty degree weather with just a slight breeze and today....not a single cloud in the sky.

Now all we need is for the trees to grow some green and we'll be set!

growth

2009-03-30T21:32:00.000-07:00

I bought some seeds. I'm going to grow this year. I had to get the proper tools first. Good soil. Read the instructions. Soak soil in water, put seed on top, do not cover with soil. Mist with more water daily. Keep in well lit area. Keep it warm.
The first sprouts came quickly. Though I added a misting of water daily, the soil began to dry. I added a second misting of water each day. It was no use, the sprouts died almost as quickly as they had grown. The soil was not up to par.
I was told to mist.
The instructions said to mist.
The instructions were wrong.

Added cupfulls of water to the soil. Waited patiently and kept the soil in the warmth of the sunlight shining in the windowsill.
Weeks later the newer, stronger sprouts appeared. Carrots, cucumbers, green onions and tomatoes.....growing. Healthy. Strong.
They grow visibly taller from morning to evening.

Drinking cupfulls of water.

Perhaps the instructions aren't always correct. A misting cannot grow something that requires cupfulls. We cannot always assume that the generalized ideas can instruct every seed in every environment.

I am a gardener. I have planted seeds. Sometimes I feel like all I can offer is mist. Will the days that I am able to pour cupfulls of water on my seeds make up for the days I cannot offer more? What if my soil dries up? If my seeds sprout will I be able to keep them growing? Am I offering enough warmth and sunlight?

Do you ever wonder who is going to pour cupfulls on you? I've read the instructions, but sometimes I think I'm only getting misted and my soil NEEDS MORE if I'm going to keep my sprouts growing. My soil is drying up. I'm thirsty.

I can't find a glass of water.

What?

2009-03-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like you were at the end of your rope, but you weren't sure which end you were at?

Yeah. I get it.

Girls Just Want to Have Fun

2009-03-24T11:18:00.000-07:00

Ignore the video....listen to the song. The words are familiar...the arrangement is not. I'm in love with it.

Hello?

2009-03-22T21:33:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I am still alive. I wouldn't say that I was alive AND kicking....but I am alive. I haven't had much time for the blog world as of late. School is getting harder with each new set of classes, which means I have been spending more and more time sitting at this computer doing boring stuff like researching ROCKS. BUT!

Finals week is officially over for this set of classes! I had a little chocolate party tonight. :0) I'm not kidding. Chocolate cake, with chocolate ice cream that had bits of chocolate brownie in it. The hubby gave me bit of an eyebrow raise as he saw me fill my LARGE bowl. I told him I was celebrating. Because seriously....

I NEVER have to take another STUPID science class EVER AGAIN!

{hallelujah chorus}

Wouldn't you be celebrating with chocolate too?

Anyway...I can't promise that I will be able to be more attentive to you...my adoring fans. But, know that I am wishing I could spend more time with you. My next classes start tomorrow. Thankfully they are about something I actually care about so maybe I won't mind reading six chapters this week. :0)

And if you knew what the title of one of my classes was.....you might want to learn a little something something yourself. {tee hee}

Get your mind out of the gutter! This here is SCHOOL learnin'! About the way people think and feel! So........shush!

Lucky

2009-03-18T09:34:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a great St. Patty's day!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-10T13:47:00.000-07:00

I know it's not Wednesday, but I don't know if I'll have time to post tomorrow and I really wanted to share this picture I took of my little girl today. She has been taking dance lessons for a bit now and is just loving everything about it. She loves to dress up in the leotards and tutus and prance about the dance studio with all of the other little girls. I was having her pose for me so I could get some pictures of her in 1st position, 2nd position, and 3rd position {ballet poses} and she got kind of tired of me. So, she plopped down and said, "I just can't do it!"

Honestly, I think it's my favorite one. :0)

John Schmidt

2009-03-04T08:17:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, I can't live without music. Whether or not that sounds dramatic, it's true. I need it. Like water.
A friend of mine just introduced me to this guy and I am so sad that I have missed out on his music for so long. It is beautiful, amazing, and soothing. As I listen to it I swear I can literally feel my soul healing. So, I thought I would share this with you. He has such an amazing gift, perhaps it is my awe of him that makes me stop and think. No matter the reason, I just bought two of his CDs on iTunes. :0)

The Google Game

2009-02-26T09:29:00.000-08:00

Virginia posted this meme and it looked like fun, so I figured I'd give it a go. Obviously, because I share a name with a celebrity my answers were a bit "different". It did make it fun though.

Here's how you do it: Go to Google. Type in your name + the words in the rest of each category. For example, if your name was Sally, you would type in "Sally looks like" and then see what Google could find for you. Of course, sharing is caring, so I want to see your answers as well! Have fun!

Ashlee looks like:

A Grandma (I knew I felt old....)
A Playmate (I don't know if this is much better!)
She is about to cry....

Ashlee Likes:

Skunks? (Gross!!!)
To shop cheap (doesn't everybody?)
Brit's partying (as opposed to Italians of course....)

Ashlee says:

She's not heavy, she's my sister (meaning Jessica of course. Did you not know we were sisters?)
No to Playboy (see...just because I may look like a playmate does NOT mean I have to pose for playboy)
Yes (I'm not sure to what, but apparently it's not to playboy)

Ashlee wants:

To be forever young (who wouldn't?)
a bigger butt (it's true...mine is just WAY too small...)
marriage and children (whew! I can check that one off the list!)

Ashlee hates:

work (I work for the hubby...so NO COMMENT)
eating dirt (rocks are so much chewier)
bananas and coffee (kind of random don't you think?)

Ashlee can:

see the future (sh! don't tell!)
read (yes, I've got mad skills!)
dance! (What a feeling!)

Ashlee goes:

dark again (actually, my hair is still the same.....for now)
on a shopping spree (with who's money?)
white trash (I might be a redneck IF.....)

Ashlee is:

Growing by the day (I'm assuming this is a reference to my growth in wisdom and not in weight)
in love (awww.....)
super cute (dang right! And sassy too!)

Ashlee loves:

herself (but not in an egotistical way or anything...)
her baby body (I think I'm being mocked here...)
themed parties and costumes (actually, this is very true)

Ashlee, the:

Cutest gravedigger (should I take this as a compliment?)
streaking sasquatch (I know my feet are kind of big....)
new body for Victoria Secret (even with my big feet)

FREE FOR ALL!

2009-02-23T17:18:00.000-08:00

I got this off of my sister's blog and because I treasure a challenge and love anything that I get for free....I thought that it would be kind of fun to do. The first five people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:
1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It'll be done this year (might take a while).
4. You have no clue what it's going to be. It may be a story. It may be poetry or an article. I may draw or paint something. I may bake you something and mail it to you. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure!
5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

The catch? YOU must repost this on YOUR blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they did win a FAB-U-LOUS homemade gift by me! I know that you all want to join so hurry fast, remember it is only the first 5 people to respond and then put it on your blog. If you don't put it on your blog then you don't count!! :)
Oh, and be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it! Good luck!

Sassy!

2009-02-15T10:59:00.000-08:00

That's right people.....that's how I felt last night. :0)

SASSY!

Normally there is not much to do around these parts. So, when we got notice that there was going to be a Valentine's Day dinner and ball the hubby and I jumped on the chance for a fancy night out. Of course....this meant I needed a new dress. With the help of my friend Montay and my handy camera phone so I could text pictures of me trying on the dresses to her....I found the perfect one.

I am now the proud owner of a "little black dress".

{BTW....my handsome son was the fabulous photographer here}

Addiction

2009-02-14T13:10:00.000-08:00

I think I need to join a 12 step program.

This is me. At least it's the back of my head. My son snapped this picture of me. Perhaps he was trying to help me to see how bad I have really gotten. My head is hanging out the window, my hand is gripping the steering wheel in anticipation.....I can't seem to help myself.

Sonic is my ultimate drink stop. Here they create the BEST cranberry limeades I have ever had. {Ok, so this is the only place I've had a cranberry limeade...but still!} The lady at the drive through window has come to expect me at least four times a week now. If I'm going to work....I need a drink. After my daughter's dance class.....I need a drink. On my way back from the grocery store....I need a drink. It doesn't help that I pass by Sonic almost every time I leave the house. One is conveniently located less than 2 miles from my house. There is another one on the main strip in town.

What is even more sad is that I have contaminated my children too. My daughter begs for pink sprite all the time. My son....he wants an ocean water. Even the hubby craves their yummy deliciousness and grabs a grape limeade. And seriously....half price drinks between 2 and 4 pm! Can't beat that!

You should go try one. You won't regret it.

I'll see you at the Sonic Drinkers Anonymous meeting.

Until then....you can find me at the drive through window.

He's Just Not That Into You....

2009-02-13T13:39:00.001-08:00

Um...went and saw this movie last night and thought it was AWE....SOME. Just watch this little clip to see what I mean. :0)

I ate sushi...

2009-02-10T22:52:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to let you know.....

I almost threw up too.

Who eats that stuff anyway? Weirdos!

Lucky Number Four

2009-02-04T08:34:00.000-08:00

I got tagged by Sister Sassy.

1. Open the fourth photo folder of your computer.

2. Choose the fourth photo in that folder and publish it in your blog.

3. Explain the photo.

4. Challenge four bloggers to do the same.

This is my son. August 2007. First day of school pictures for the 2nd grade. He was obsessed with camoflauge, all of his teeth were finally growing back in, and his feet were as big as ever. {He's going to be a tall one}. He looks so innocent and cute in this picture....and little. He has gotten so much bigger since I took this shot and it makes me so sad.

Wanna play along? Consider yourself tagged. :0)

Opinions needed!

2009-02-02T14:13:00.000-08:00

My kitchen is covered in roosters. I have decorated my kitchen this way for seven years. Yes, seven. There have been

additions over the years, and some items have been removed from the walls and shelves. But, honestly....

I'm getting tired of roosters. I want to do something else. I just have no idea what to do. I'm needing some ideas and insight, so I'm looking to all of you for help. My walls are a brick red in my kitchen. I love my red walls. So, I would need something that coordinated with that color. Other than that I'm pretty open for suggestions. The budget is small and my time to get crafty is non-existent. It makes it hard to fill the space. I would like to get away from the country look though.

Your help is always appreciated. I can't wait to see what you all come up with!

8 Things Tag

2009-01-29T09:31:00.000-08:00

8 things
I got tagged by Tess....so off we go!

8 shows to love
1. Chuck
2. Heroes
3. American Idol
4. Fringe
5. Game Show Network!
6. Food Network Challenge
7. Ace of Cakes
8. So You Think You Can Dance

8 Favorite Restaurants
1. Olive Garden
2. Chili's
3. Zulu Bagels
4. Johnny Carinos
5. Tomatos
6.
7.
8.

8 Things I did yesterday
1. Went to work
2. homework
3. blogged
4. took Landon to piano lessons
5. dishes
6. cleaned the bathroom
7. went to a jewelry party
8. planned February's menu and made grocery list

8 Things on my wish list
1. Sell my old house
2. A self cleaning house :0)
3. My pre-baby body back
4. be done with school
5. naturally straight hair
6. obedient children
7. go on a caribbean cruise
8. a bigger kitchen

8 things I like about this season
1. Are you kidding me?
2. This is my least favorite season
3. It's miserably cold
4. driving in the snow STINKS!
5. Walking on ice in heels is HARD
6. everything is dead....
7. The gray skies are kind of depressing too.
8. But I guess Landon was born during this season..so there is one good thing. :0)

8 weird things about me
1. I can't touch the shopping cart handles. Germs! I usually put my hands inside my coat or wipe the handle down first.
2. I have a hard time with complete silence.
3. I can't share a blanket with the hubby. We have separate ones. I'm a blanket hog. :0)
4. I LOVE shoes, but would rather go barefoot
5. I dance in my car while driving....
6. I like to watch figure skating.
7. I can't wear scarves or turtlenecks...my neck gets claustrophobic.
8. I don't celebrate Valentine's Day with the hubby.

Deep Thoughts...

2009-01-28T23:04:00.000-08:00

It's midnight.....I'm tired....

But I can't sleep.

I'm stressed. A lot of stuff going on around these parts....but I thought I'd share a few thoughts that have gone through my mind today....

The other night it was 3 below zero here. That's crazy cold! At least for me. I prefer warmth and no snow. But....in the middle of the night when it was that cold....I was warm and snuggly in my bed and completely oblivious. There are those who spent all night shivering, whether due to no blanket, no heat, or no house....they did not experience the comfort that I did.

As most of you know, man evolved from apes. :0) Kind of a strange thought for me. Though I guess I do call my daughter a monkey. What was "refreshing" to learn today was that some scientists have proven that at least we weren't around when the dinosaurs were. Whew! I'm relieved. I was worried about our ape ancestors fighting with the Tyrannosaurus Rex. Now I don't have to worry any longer.

I need chocolate. I cannot survive without it. 'Nuff said.....

Three year olds CAN and WILL twist open fingernail polish bottles if they are allowed access to them. Don't even get me started on this one.....

Experience does not equal wisdom. Knowledge does not equal wisdom. It is how you apply your knowledge and experience that helps you to make wise choices. What is a wise choice for you may not be wise for another. You cannot force your opinions on others, either.

Should I cut my hair?

True happiness cannot be given to you. You have to find it within yourself.

Dora is an amazing Explorer. In our house alone she has saved the Mermaid Princess and the Snow Princess AT LEAST 20 or 30 times. Talk about perseverence. I would have given up on them by that point.

This has ended tonights feature presentation of "Deep Thoughts". Stay tuned for something hopefully MUCH more exciting.....

It's official!

2009-01-26T20:41:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true...

Today I officially submitted my application for the bachelor's program. Sure, I haven't even

received my associate's degree, but apparently, they don't care. OK, so if I completely bomb my last few classes here they'll deny my application, BUT! it's done. It's in. There's no backing out now.

August 18 I will officially be starting my journey towards my bachelor's degree. CRAZY! Who'd have thunk it? Not only will I have graduated from college with an associate degree in arts, but I will be moving forward toward my degree in brain shrinking. :0)

Honestly, though I thought I'd be nervous or scared, I am elated. Though I know we're not supposed to be "prideful", I am so proud of myself for pressing forward. After I went back to school last February there were all sorts of things that happened that would have normally sent me running. I would have had a perfectly acceptable excuse for withdrawing. But I didn't. And I'm still alive...ok, so nothing was life or death. :0) It has helped me to learn a lot about myself though and the kind of person I have the ability to be.

Wish me luck as I continue my journey!

Benjamin Button

2009-01-23T21:46:00.000-08:00

I went and saw this movie tonight and I really enjoyed it. Would you like to know why? Because dear Benjamin Button shared some warm and fuzzy deep thoughts with me. So, I thought I'd share....

"Your life is defined by its opportunities... even the ones you miss."

"Along the way you bump into people who make a dent on your life."

"It's a funny thing about comin' home. Looks the same, smells the same, feels the same. You'll realize what's changed is you. "

"Sometimes we're on a collision course, and we just don't know it. Whether it's by accident or by design, there's not a thing we can do about it. "

"For what it's worth: it's never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There's no time limit, stop whenever you want. You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life you're proud of. If you find that you're not, I hope you have the strength to start all over again."

"Benjamin, we're meant to lose the people we love. How else would we know how important they are to us?"

"Life isn't measured in minutes, but in moments"

See? didn't I tell you? Good thoughts.....deep thoughts.....insightful thoughts.....

No, this movie isn't for everyone. Yes, this movie was really three hours long. BUT! In the end I left the theatre feeling GOOD. Why? Because Benjamin reminded me that sometimes life can SUCK. And sometimes life is AWESOME! What is important to remember, is that it is up to us to decide if we are going to let the bad things in life change US. We are going to screw up, but it's up to us to learn and grow from our experiences so we can be better tomorrow.

No one is perfect....

We shouldn't expect ourselves to be.

Blueberries!

2009-01-22T19:14:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's right!

I saw this at the grocery store the other day and knew I HAD to try it. {Plus, it was on sale, so I kind of had to right?}

I love blueberries. Not just a little bit...but A LOT. Blueberry muffins....blueberry scones....blueberry waffles...blueberry cheesecake....oh yeah!

As many of you know, I have been attempting to eat healthier. These last few weeks I have really been struggling to keep to my goals. Every night after dinner my sweet tooth kicks in and it's been hard to stay strong. In fact, last night I ate a bag of M&Ms. {They were SO good!} BUT! This is not good...once I get started I often have a hard time staying strong and it snowballs from there.

Well, this cereal is going to save me! {I hope}

Considering that most candy bars/chocolate items contain super large amounts of carbs, I figured why not swap them for a nice bowl of blueberry cereal goodness instead? What is the difference you ask? Well...let me tell you.

0 grams of fat in my cereal....10 grams of fat in a package of M&Ms

100 calories vs. 250 calories

7 grams of sugar vs. 30 grams of sugar

Plus, the cereal has Vitamin A and C, and contain 45% of your daily needs for iron.

My sugar craving is gone...and I didn't blow it for the day. Hallelujah! Both my brain and my tummy can be happy.

Dreaming of the ones you "love"

2009-01-21T08:27:00.000-08:00

I am a night owl. I'm usually up until about midnight every night. Sometimes I am reading, sometimes I can be found blogging, other times I am stuck doing homework till the wee hours of the morning.

Last night was no different. Though I desperately wanted to get back to the new book I just started, my other new books {meaning textbooks} had been staring me in the face all day. Four chapters of reading. It's only 140 pages right? Just for this week...because next week I'll have closer to 200 to read. But....hey! I love reading...so this should be enjoyable right? Too bad half of my reading is about rocks and plate tectonics.

BORING!

Anyway...back to my reason for posting. Last night I was trying to get through my assigned chapters in my Geology textbook. For me, the most comfortable place to read is in my bed propped up with multiple pillows. So, at 10:00 last night I grabbed my book and walked upstairs to find my hubby snoring soundly in our bed. The hubby doesn't stay up late. Every now and again he will, but for the most part he calls it a night at about 10:00. So, it wasn't odd for me to find a dark bedroom and the hubby's toes peeking out of the bottom of his blanket.

This was NOT going to deter me however. That's what the bedside lamp is for. :0) So, I clicked on the lamp and got comfy with my pillows and began learning all about ROCKS. About 30 minutes later, as I was getting my highlighter "ON", the hubby shifts sleeping positions.

Now, I realize that it is fairly normal to do this while sleeping. I shift sleeping positions quite a bit. What ISN'T normal is when your husband rolls over and mumbles

"Jack Bauer"

What?

That's what I said to him. I figured he had been woken up by the light from my lamp and was trying to tell me something. I didn't get a response from him. So I said it louder....

"What are you talking about?"

He turned and looked up at me and said "I didn't say anything."

Um...yeah....you did hubby dear. And I told him so. :0) Followed by letting him know whose name he was calling out in his sleep....

All I got as a response from him was, "Really? That's funny."

Sigh.....

You know it's sad when your husband is dreaming of someone else, but it's even more sad when they are dreaming about Jack Bauer. I know they have been having a secret affair ever since Santa brought the hubby Season 1 and 2 of the series "24". He was so obsessed with his new boyfriend Jack that he borrowed Seasons 3, 4, and 5 from our friends so he could get "caught up". He's almost done with Season 5 now. I knew it was serious, I just had no idea it had gotten this involved. :0)

Let this be a word of caution for you ladies out there....

Jack Bauer will take your husband away! He'll be the name that is called out in the middle of the night. If you are toying with the idea of letting Jack in your home....he will NEVER leave. So, be prepared to make up the guest bedroom for him, or put blankets on the couch for him. He'll be sticking around for a while. :0)

Unique

2009-01-17T10:00:00.000-08:00

HowManyOfMe.com

There is
1
person with my name in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

That's right people...there's only one ME! How many of you are out there?

Just say no to country music! :0)

2009-01-15T21:39:00.000-08:00

So, as many of my close friends know....I'm not a huge fan of country music. This is not to say that I HATE country music, or that I NEVER listen to country music, it simply means that I prefer other genres.

OK, honestly...."real" country music drives me batty. There are a select few that sound more like "regular" music than country and so I find myself able to listen to those. Otherwise, I'd just as soon have silence. {And that's saying a lot for me!}

Seriously, just read some of the titles of country songs past and perhaps you will understand my distaste for the twang....

Get Your Tongue Outta My Mouth 'Cause I'm Kissing You Goodbye
I Don't Know Whether To Kill Myself Or Go Bowling
I Flushed You From The Toilets Of My Heart.
Billy Broke My Heart at Walgreens and I Cried All the Way to Sears
I Don't Care if it Rains or Freezes 'Long as I Have My Plastic Jesus Sittin' on the Dashboard of my Car
If I Can't Be Number One In Your Life, Then Number Two On You
I'm Here To Get My Baby Out Of Jail
Queen Of My Double-Wide Trailer
Redneck Martians Stole My Baby
You're The Reason Our Kids Are So Ugly

Don't those songs just sound so heartwarming?
OK...so I'm being a bit stereotypical here....but seriously! People actually wrote these songs, and someone thought they'd be great to share with the public. It's crazy!

And, now that I have offended my country loving friends.....

Are you kidding me?

2009-01-09T12:50:00.000-08:00

I went to the dollar store today. I have a love/hate relationship with stores like this.

I LOVE the price. I love that when I take my kids there I can "splurge" and let them get something without feeling like I've wasted a large sum of money. The kids feel like they've won the lottery and I can feel better when I see the item tossed aside knowing I spent a mere dollar on it.

I HATE how dirty some of them are. I feel like I need hand sanitizer after pushing a cart from there. :0( I HATE knowing that even though it's called the "dollar" store....I spend far more than ONE dollar. It's inevitable...I can't resist the "deal".

Today, though....my frustration was magnified exponentially when, in line at the check out counter, the little 4 year old boy in front of us flipped off my daughter. My innocent daughter who has NO idea what a middle finger being waved at her means held up her hand in an "OK" symbol. This is how she tells everyone she is three. :0) To her, the only reason a kid would hold up fingers would be to let others know their age.

Well, the kid kept flipping her off, and she kept holding up her three fingers....him first, then her, then him, you get the idea. Apparently the little boy was not pleased that my daughter was not understanding the meaning behind his "naughty" finger and so instead he decided to TELL her.

Yes, you heard me.

He said "F*%# you" to my daughter. I looked at his father who surely had heard him...right? Nothing.

How does a FOUR YEAR OLD not only KNOW that word...but also know HOW to use it? I could go on making all sorts of assumptions about his parents, siblings, or home life...but that's all they would be. I have no idea what this kid experiences on a day-to-day basis.

Sigh...anyway, the mom pays, and dad and son and mom all start walking away. I sigh a breath of relief, though apparently I did this a tad too early. Since he still got no reaction out my daughter {who has never heard that word before} he decided to tell her again.

What did my daughter do? She smiled and waved goodbye to her new "friend". She still had no idea what he was saying to her, but she was sure that they had somehow "bonded" over hand gestures.

I should have said something. The problem is...I don't think the parents would have cared. So what was the point? Thankfully my daughter was left unaware of what had really happened, but I was ANGRY!

I'm trying not to make rash judgments about these people. I'm sure they're very nice, right? But how in the crap does their son know about fingers and "F words" at four years old? I realize that kids hear their parents swear sometimes. I am not immune to this. I slip...I'm human. But my kids are NOT allowed to use profanities. Sure, they'll get older and do whatever they want anyway....but right now....when they are still young and moldable...bad words are BAD. In our house bad words are things like stupid, butt, ugly, and stuff like that. Words that are part of most people's vocabulary but that can be gross or hurtful.

Sorry for my rambling here....but seriously...am I the only one shocked by occurences like this? All of these little kids with potty mouths? It's sad.

Eric Hutchinson

2009-01-06T08:24:00.000-08:00

Here is a new song for you all. I just grabbed this one from the Free section on iTunes and fell in love with it. It has a great message and an easy rhythmn. Good stuff. I thought you might be in need of something new to listen to to help you get going with your New Years Resolutions. :0)

Taking the good with the bad

2009-01-04T16:50:00.000-08:00

Life is all about choices. Our choices directly affect what our future will hold. It's 2009...is anyone else shocked at how quickly last year went? A whole other year has flown by and I'm finding it hard to remember what I accomplished. :0) What decisions did I make that will affect this new year?

I went back to school....I will graduate in July!
I said some hurtful things....I will need to mend bridges this year.
I went back to work for the hubby....I have more to do and less time for extra curricular this year.
I formed some wicked awesome friendships...I have a wicked awesome support system for the rough patches this year.
I turned 29....I will turn 30 this year!!!!
I learned more about faith...where do I go from here?
I chose to change my Christmas routine for years to come....Christmastime will never be the same again.
I chose to face a few of my fears....will I continue to cope?

These are just a few of the many choices that I made last year that I know will affect how this next year plays out. As I get older, and life gets more complicated I start to wonder why I feel the need to further complicate things with my constant worrying. I over-analyze...overstress...and end up overwhelming myself with doubt. I think this will end up being a constant as far as New Years Resolutions go. I need to learn to take things as they come and not worry about the 40 million possible outcomes. There will be good, there will be bad. Some people will never change and I may never be able to please them or make them happy or even become friends with them. And I need to learn to accept that. For me...this is easier said than done. :0)

Anyway...to start the year off right I want to give a shout out to all my interpeeps! Thanks for stopping by and leaving me warm fuzzy thoughts. Keeping up in the blogosphere has been hard lately as my classes have become more difficult. I'm glad you haven't forgotten about me. :0)

Hopefully this new year will be full of lots of good times for me to post about.....or perhaps just more randome thoughts. Who knows....

This is me we're talking about! :0)

You've Got to Trust Me on This One

2008-12-30T07:33:00.000-08:00

I think it's time to get that crazy picture of Britney Spears off of the front page of my blog. :0)

Did you all have a great holiday? I hope so. Mine was busy and full of family. It was wonderful. I was very spoiled this year, as was the rest of my family. We got OODLES of yucky snow that made it miserable to drive around in. But, "thankfully" it rained for an entire day and now we just have mounds of slush all over the roads to deal with. {BTW...trying to keep kids from splashing in the slush puddles that have formed in store parking lots is maddening!}

I have begun the massive process of decluttering my house and re-organizing everything. With no school to worry about I have been able to let my OCD run free. It's great. :0) I got some awesome new dishes for Christmas from my mom and so yesterday I had to reorganize my kitchen cupboards to make everything fit. My junk drawer has been compartmentalized. {don't you love that word?} My laundry room is sparkling. The movies have been re-alphabetized. Christmas decorations are almost put away. And.....

I have watched 16 episodes of '24'. You know... the television series? Yeah...that one. The hubby started watching it at the beginning of season 5 but felt like he was missing out on some important information. He's been wanting to start at season 1 and get through all of the episodes before season 6 starts. Santa must have heard his cry for help because he brought season 1 and season 2 to our house this year. And every night since, the two of us have lazily sat in front of the television for HOURS trying to get through the first season. It's now 4:00 pm...so that means we still have about 8 hours {or 8 episodes} to go. Ok...without commercials it takes way less time than the normal hour tv block, but still. I don't hardly ever watch tv anymore so I'm feeling kind of naughty. :0)

BTW...for those of you who watch the show...have you ever counted how many times Jack Bauer actually says "You've got to trust me on this one" each episode? For a guy who basically trusts no one...he expects an awful lot of trust from everyone else around him. :0)

Potentially Dangerous...

2008-12-22T13:10:00.000-08:00

Do you remember when Britney Spears went crazy and shaved her head....and then attacked a car with an umbrella. Sometimes....

I get it.

You know...a string of frustrations and you just need to scream. Or talk with a British accent for no apparent reason.....

Thankfully....I tend to resort to coloring my hair rather than shaving it all off. And instead of smashing in a car window with an umbrella I eat chocolate. {I don't have to worry about all those papparazzi taking pictures of me stuffing my face like poor Britney}

Why am I talking about Britney Spears you ask? Good question.

I have been going to school full time, non-stop since February. One set of classes ends on a Sunday and the next set begins the very next day. My brain is on overload. Just as I finish up my final projects for one set of classes, I have to hurry and get familiar with the information for the next set. After this last change up I thought I was going to go crazy. Understandably, as I get further along in school, my classes keep getting harder. Want to know what else changes with each new rotation of classes?

The level of cleanliness in my home....it's scary.
The amount of time I sit in front of this computer.....can you say blood shot eyes?
My ability to stay organized in other areas.....freakishly erratic.
My extra time for me.....almost non-existent.
The quality of the meals I make for my family....it's almost a form of neglect.
The time I have for hanging out with my family....NOT ENOUGH.

My OCD tendencies are screaming for attention. I can't block out the clutter in my home any longer. I can't cram one more piece of random information into my head. My kids and my hubby need some quality time with dear old me. My son wanted to know how much longer I was going to have to do this. He went bug-eyed when I told him I had at least 2 1/2 years before I could actually get a position in the field of psychology. What I didn't tell him was that I would have a couple more years after that in order to get my master's degree.

So, hallelujah! Today is day one of fourteen where I have NO schoolwork. I've got two weeks of holiday time where I don't even have to crack open a book. AND....when holiday break is over, I only have one week of school left in this block before I am taking a personal break for another week. That will give me time before I have to jump into more deep thinking. :0)

And....I won't have to worry about ending up like Miss Britney Spears. I don't think I would look good with a shaved head...it's kind of bumpy. :0)

Optimism

2008-12-20T12:46:00.000-08:00

Optimism/Pessimism Test

Your rating: Cynicism (44 out of a possible 100)

Summary Report:
According to your responses, your perspective of humankind is neither naïve nor jaded. Instead of assuming the best or worst of someone, you wait before making a judgment. You prefer to have others earn your trust, and although you won’t necessarily assume everyone has a hidden agenda, you’re also not the type to accept everything people say or do at face value. Tempered with a hearty dose of skepticism, this is a relatively healthy perspective. You may however, benefit from being a little more trusting. Unlike their less positive counterparts, optimists will at least try to find the good in even the most difficult of people, and are much more willing to place their faith in others. Although this doesn’t mean that you should trust the good intentions of everyone you meet, a leap of faith every once in a while couldn’t hurt.

Sounds about right :0)

What about you? Do you lean towards the glass being half empty or half full? Or...are you like me and just see some water in a cup? :0)

Snow Shmow

2008-12-16T21:49:00.000-08:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I hate snow? Sigh. It's been a long day.

I hate driving in the snow. A lot. It's not my driving that I'm worried about so much...it's all the other crazy drivers out there. Anyway...we won't get into that. I had to go into work today for payroll and it took me a couple of hours to get through everything for the day. When I went outside to leave....my windshield was covered in ice! Are you kidding me? Sigh. So, I got out in the insanely cold snow and scraped my windshield so that I could see. {Just so you know...it was completely clean before I went to work. This was all new ice!}

Then...I got back in my car and as I attempted to pull out into the road, I realized my car was stuck. Yep. Tires spinning, not moving...stuck. Are you kidding me? Thankfully I had drivers education with Mr. Mecham and so I knew all about the "rocking" technique. You know...reverse, forward, reverse, forward...back, forth, back, forth...until you are able to "rock" out of the sticky spot. I made it out...whew. Off to Costco.

Did you know that apparently it was A-ok to ride your bicycle down the middle of a busy road if the sidewalks are covered in snow?

I didn't know that either. Hmmm.....

Did you know that apparently it is A-ok to WALK down the middle of a busy road if the sidewalks are covered in snow?

Again...me either. See where I'm going with this?

Did you know that if you drive a BIG truck you don't have to worry about slick roads because...hey! You're in a BIG truck. Those other people in their cute little Pacifica's? They should stop for you. Oh wait! Not all Pacifica's have 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive? That's right! Wow....should have thought twice when you thought the lady with the angry eyes behind the wheel would actually stop for you and your BIG ass truck.

Ahem. {Calming down now}

Yeah...some dumb guy in a truck tried to pull out DIRECTLY in front of me in a non-snow plowed parking lot. My car doesn't stop on a dime in the snow. Let's just say he learned a lesson today. And that is....don't pull out in front of people in the snow! Dumb!

Continuing on...

Did you know that snow tires are about $150 each? And that by the time you pay for all four of them and have them installed and balanced and whatnot it's going to cost almost $900? FOR TIRES! THAT YOU ONLY USE WHEN IT'S SNOWY OUTSIDE!

Have I mentioned that I hate snow?

Thanks again ladies!

2008-12-14T18:23:00.000-08:00

I am keeping to my word and updating all my girls night girls about my grade on the assignment you all helped me to complete.....

Drum roll please.....
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!!!!!!!!!!

That's right...you all receive an A+++++++++

Thanks again for your help!

2008-12-12T01:59:00.000-08:00

This tag is from "It's What I Love" by my good friend Bonnie B.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper
2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial
3. When do you put up the tree? weekend after Thanksgiving
4. When do you take the tree down? week after Chrsitmas
5. Do you like eggnog? it's ok....not my favorite
6. Favorite gift received as a child? don't remember...there was a cabbage patch doll once (that I still have)
8. Easiest person to buy for? Mackenzee
9. Do you have a nativity scene? Several- I've started to collect them
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mine have already been sent out in the mail.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? ???
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Polar Express
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? August
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes
5. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? mom's sticky buns
16. Lights on the tree? Yes, it's pre-lit
17. Favorite Christmas song? When Christmas Comes To Town
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Home
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? yes
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? neither..no room because my tree is too tall
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? We open pajamas on Christmas Eve and everything else on Christmas morning.
22. Favorite Christmas Tradition? Christmas jammies
23. Favorite ornament, theme or color? I love gold on my tree with dots of red in there too.
24. Favorite Christmas dinner? Whatever it is that I haven't had to cook. :0)
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? world peace. :0) Oh wait...how about that my house sells, that the housing market will pick back up, that I will get through school in one piece because I'll falling apart with that one, and perhaps some rammekins so that I can make individual molten lava cakes. :0)

You guys want to play along? It's a tag...and so since you read all the way through mine consider yourself tagged! :0)

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-09T22:18:00.000-08:00

Such a cutie patootie. :0) This is one of my daughter's best friends and she is such fun to take pictures of. This is one I nabbed while taking pictures of her and her family a few weeks ago.

Little People Nativity

2008-12-04T22:05:00.001-08:00

My favorite Christmas decorations are my nativity sets. I have four so far, but would love to collect more. A couple of years ago I purchased the Willow Tree Nativity set and fell in love with the simplistic beauty of it. Last year at a craft fair I was thrilled to find a white ceramic nativity set identical to the one my mother has had since I was a little girl. My first nativity set was purchased six years ago and consists of little ceramic figurines as well. The other set I have was given to me by my grandmother and is actually made up of those cute little nesting dolls. You know, the kind that fit inside of each other?

I put these decorations out a couple of days ago and threatend my children with their lives afterwards. I fear we will have broken pieces before the week is out. My daughter loves to touch the decorations in my home and often rearranges them. And though I remember rearranging my mothers ceramic nativity set as a child, I am way too high strung to be able to watch her handling the delicate pieces. She could hardly contain herself yesterday and stood as close as she could to the table they were on.

Guess what I found today though? I was out shopping for presents and found this adorable Little People Nativity set at my local church bookstore. I was so excited and knew I had to get it. Not only is it another nativity for my collection, but my kids can play with it all they want. I put it out as soon as I got home and my daughter has rearranged and played to her hearts content ever since. As an added bonus, it is a fun way for her to learn the story of the birth of Jesus. My son isn't as excited about it because...you know....he's cool like that.

Anyway...any of you looking for a new great Christmas decoration or even just a great new Christmas toy for your kids...I highly suggest it.

When Christmas Comes To Town

2008-12-03T20:41:00.001-08:00

Christmastime is crazy. Since Jaysen and I got married we have made sure to share the holiday with both of our families. Every other year we are with his family and vice versa. On the years that it is my families turn, we go to my Grandma's house. Ever since I can remember my family has gone to her house for Christmas Eve. She has always made it such a huge event and takes no shortcuts when it comes to making sure it is a fabulous evening for everyone. In fact, as the family has gotten larger and larger {her kids, grandkids, and great grandkids} the family room was made bigger in order to accomodate everyone.

Santa Claus comes every year so that the kids can get in their last minute requests. We eat until we are so full we can't move. We sing carols. We play the bells. We learn about the true meaning of Christmas. It has been this way forever. Traditions are a part of what make the holiday so great.

About eight years ago a few of the traditions were changed as the families grew. Instead of going to my Grandma's house again on Christmas morning to open presents, we open them on Christmas Eve. This is done at the end of the evening. My grandparents pass out gifts to EVERYONE. {That's a lot of gifts!} They love to give these gifts and give them from their hearts. I appreciate them and all they do for their family. There's a lot of us and I know it takes months of work for them to cross everyone off of their list.

This year we are spending the holiday with my husbands family. I am new to their traditions but have found that no matter what activities take place, all that matters is that we are able to spend the holiday with family. This mean that this year we will be eating pizza from the favorite local pizza place. We read the Christmas story. We play fun games. We exchange ornaments and the kids open up their pajamas from Grandma and Grandpa. The opening of the pajama boxes is almost like an unveiling ceremony. The kids get so excited to see what their new jammies will look like each year. And every year as we put up our Christmas tree we get to reflect on the ornaments of Christmas' past that we have received from Jaysen's siblings. I have come to love and appreciate these traditions of his family and look forward to them every year.

The past few years I have struggled with the overwhelming amount of gifts that my kids receive every year. Not only do they get presents from me and Santa, but from cousins and grandparents too. My daughter receives presents from four sets of grandparents. My son...wow. His birthday is this month as well so he is in present heaven. To top off that...he has two sets of parents and six sets of grandparents that give him presents {that I know of}. Yeah....I don't know if he even knows what he gets every year because there is so much. Now, I'm not saying that grandparents and cousins can't give gifts to my kids. In fact, my kids give gifts to their grandparents and their cousins themselves. It is just disheartening to see my kids simply looking for the next gift to unwrap. What is interesting though, is that the gifts that have had a lasting effect on my kids have never been the toys. Even so.....

I worry that my kids don't grasp the true meaning of Christmas.

I worry that the commercialism of the holiday is all they remember.

I worry that they will grow up and the only traditions they can look back on are opening presents.

I have been struggling with this for a few years now. There are so many other kids that receive little or nothing for Christmas. If you have seen the movie, The Polar Express, you will remember the adorable little boy who doesn't believe in Santa because he's never gotten a present from him. His family was too poor. And then there's my kids who have never wanted for anything. Am I the only one struggling with this? I worry that I have enabled my children to have this cushioned view of life.

I have tried to reign things in this year. After seeing the piles of presents that my kids opened, I told myself that was it. I wasn't going to do it again this year. Their presents are bought and I am done. I wanted to focus this year on teaching my kids the true meaning of Christmas. I want to take them caroling to the nursing home. I want to have them take presents to those who would otherwise go without. I want them to learn about the reason we give gifts in the first place.

I told them yesterday that we were going to be giving presents to baby Jesus this year because it is his birth we celebrate. Trying to keep things on my toddler's level I told them that we were going to have a birthday party for Jesus. The Wise Men took him presents to celebrate his birth and we have been told to give to others to honor His life. Not necessarily materialistic things, but of ourselves as well.

If any of you have other ideas that would help me to continue to keep the true meaning of Christmas as a theme for my family this year I would love to hear them. One aspect of Christmas that is identical no matter where we go to spend the holiday is that the story of the birth of Jesus is told. I grew up playing characters from this story as me and my cousins acted out the scenes. I am so grateful that my grandmother has kept this tradition alive. I love her so much for all of the time she puts into every Christmas Eve. She is 76 years old this year and I worry there won't be too many more years of her Christmas programs.

Sorry for the ramblings here....I've been frustrated over a few aspects of Christmas this year and needed to ramble on a bit. :0) Thanks for listening.

Twilight

2008-12-01T12:27:00.000-08:00

I have had to avoid your blogs my interpeeps. At least those of you that went to see the movie, Twilight, before me. I didn't want to spoil it with your opinions. Did you like it...did you hate it...was it lame...were you left in awe.....

I couldn't know the answers to those questions until I had seen for myself.

And now...now that I have seen for myself..... I will visit you again. Never fear! :0)

BTW...I was totally let down. :0( I'm hoping they get a bigger budget for the next one because this one just didn't do it for me. Now...my neice on the other hand...she is in love. :0) For me...it played out like a badly shot "made for tv" movie that would have played as an after school special for teenagers. It jumped so quickly from scene to scene that the overall flow of the book was lost and the building of the real love between Edward and Bella ended up seeming more like stalker infatuation. And honestly...didn't Jasper look more consipated than "struggling" to fight his vampire urges? Sigh.

Anyway...I can move on. The anticipation is over and I can once again enter the blogosphere without the fear of spoiling anything. :0)

An Attitude of Gratitude Day Seven

2008-11-26T21:20:00.000-08:00

Ok...last post in this series. :0)

I had a hard time picking out only one more thing, though. I have so many other things that I am truly grateful for. How could I narrow it down to just seven? Obviously, these posts have only touched on the things on my gratitude list, and it would be too hard to name everything. My final post will be a fairly short one though.

I have talked about my hubby several times on a couple of my blogs. I met him five years ago and my world has never been the same. I won't bore you with repetitions of things I have blogged about before concerning him, but I do want to make sure that he is on my "list". You see, he means the world to me. If you knew half of the things this poor man has to put up with, you would start calling him Saint Jaysen.

I tell everyone that he got the better end of the deal when we were married, but honestly....I'm not so sure about that. Even though we have such different tastes in so many things...even though he is spontaneous and I am a control freak....even though he says ice cream and I say cupcake...we click. :0) He makes me laugh, he listens to me blather on about things that I'm sure bore him to death, he watches chick flicks with me {except for Mamma Mia...he drew the line with that one}, and he has such a tender heart with the kids. He is not just my hubby, but my boyfriend {tee hee}, my sugar daddy {even bigger tee hee :0) }, and my best friend. He accepts me for who I am, and still is somehow able to love me in spite of it all.

Want to know more?

He coaches my son's little league basketball team

He has tea parties with my daughter

He built me a scrapbook room...it's all mine!

He doesn't complain when I have girls night at our house and have friends over until 2:00 am...and he has to get up in the morning for work. :0)

He lets me sleep in every Saturday and Sunday morning.

He makes crepes for breakfast every Sunday morning.

He lets the neighbor kid come over and play....even if he's the only one home.

He puts up with my late hours staying up to do homework

He offers to take the kids golfing with him, even though its his "alone" time.

I could go on and on....

I won't though. You are probably throwing up in your mouth a little reading how mushy I've gotten here. {I apologize}

But seriously, what would I do without him? I am so grateful to have met him and feel so blessed to have him as my companion through life. I'm so glad he's willing to be stuck with me forever too...

An Attitude of Gratitude Day Six

2008-11-25T20:10:00.000-08:00

I have 1906 songs on my iTunes list. In fact, if I stayed up for five days straight I would have enough music to keep me up and going the entire time. I love music. I always have. I took piano lessons for 10 years. Before that I was singing in church with my family. I sang in the choir and was a band geek, too.

I have posted numerous times about music on this blog. It plays such an important role in my life. It has the power to change my emotions. It isn't just the melody part of the song that I find enchanting, either. I hear music and it's as though I can actually FEEL it. The words, the dynamics, the way the person sings the song....all affect me. I love that I can find a song that can match my mood and help me to express my feelings.

What a beautiful gift music is. It would be an awfully quiet world without it. Seriously, what do you think about when you hear the titles of these songs?

The Star Spangled Banner
O Holy Night
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing
Love Is A Battlefied
Somewhere Out There
Respect
Thriller
Imagine
You Are My Sunshine
We Will Rock You
I Will Survive

Any of them make you smile? take you on a little flashback? Who doesn't feel pride when hearing a patriotic song? Or feel warm and fuzzy when hearing a Christmas carol? What about a song to remind you of a higher power? Or a song to help you belt out your frustrations? Remember the song that you and your friends sang back in the day? What a fun memory. And then there's that lullaby you sing to your kids that warms your heart every time.

I am so grateful for music. I am grateful for a mom who MADE me keep taking lessons when I wanted to quit and just be a punky teenager. I am grateful to those who are gifted enough to be able to write such wonderful songs. And....I'm grateful that my children have developed this love of music as well. I know it is something they will be able to use EVERY day. I know I do......

An Attitude of Gratitude Day Five

2008-11-24T11:53:00.000-08:00

So, you getting tired of my mush-i-ness yet? :0)

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, I tend to forget to just stop and look around me. This usually happens when I am feelings frazzled and overbooked....which is often. But, every now and then I think my brain throws a temper tantrum. You know the kind. You've seen your kid do it, I'm sure. Just picture it....

throwing themselves on the ground, bottom lip out, arms folded across the chest, and THOSE angry eyes. Normally a bit of screaming is involved too. They aren't getting their way so they are going to tell you about how pissed off they are until you either cave or put them in time out. Either way, it has to be dealt with.

Yeah....my brain does that...I'm pretty sure. With all of the running around, I am suffocating my ability to see the beauty in everyday life. I'm glad my brain is stubborn and makes me pay attention. Because really....I would seriously be missing out.

Fall is my favorite season and not only is it the most beautiful time of year, it is also the busiest. But if I forgot to stop and look around at the leaves changing color I would miss out on something that brings me such joy. I am so grateful for the beautiful world I live in. I look around and see the miracle that is nature. Flowers, trees, waterfalls, sunsets, and even the veggies in my garden....gorgeous! What a dreary existance I would have without the amazing display that I have been given. I have had the opportunity to spend more time outdoors this last year and have found that nothing is able to relax me more than the quiet of nature. I am forced to stop, and listen, and see.

I am so grateful for the rainbow of colors that is in everything around me. It helps me to keep perspective and to remember that life is about finding beauty in every situation, not about trying to make everything just right. Even a flower that is missing a petal can still offer it's scent and beautiful color to those who notice it. It doesn't matter that it is not perfect. It's still a work of art.

An Attitude of Gratitude Day Four

2008-11-23T10:29:00.000-08:00

If you have ever read my "About Me" section on the sidebar here, you've seen how cute my children are. In fact, you have probably noticed they are cuter than your kids. I mean...look at them. CUTE! :0) Now, I urge you to continue loving your children the same way, though you have now realized they are not the cutest children in the world any longer.

I'm such a brat. I know...but get ready for more bragging.

My kids are awesome. They have such different personalities and it is so interesting to watch them experience life in their own way. My son is almost nine *gasp* and I swear he gets bigger every day. And not just in size, but in wisdom as well. His teacher told me that she has been impressed with his ability to get others in his classroom involved so that no one is left out. She uses him as a tutor for some of the other kids in his classroom that are struggling with their schoolwork. She said she appreciates that he doesn't judge or make fun of others who may be struggling. As a mom...those are things I have wished for him, but know that ultimately his choices in life are his. I can only guide him and hope that he chooses wisely. I am so grateful that he has compassion for others. His heart is huge and I love that he is so willing to share it with others. Especially me. :0) Even as old as he is getting, he will still come and want to snuggle with me. He likes to spend time in the kitchen with me, have me play the piano with him, and is still willing to sing and get his groove on with me. How did I ever get so lucky as to be blessed with such a wonderful son? Sure, he frustrates me with his stubbornness and doesn't always make the best decisions. But, that's what kids do. They try to figure it out...how life works and what their role is. I am just grateful that I get to be with him on his journey.

And then there is my daughter. Wow. Where do I start? She has been at full speed since she was born. Compared to my fairly mellow son, I was truly not prepared to be so BUSY with her. She started walking at nine months and has never looked back. She has such a passion for life and can't wait to experience every moment. Her independant nature and unique sense of self is reassuring to me that, if continued, she will be able to handle the diversions of life when they come. She is a momma's girl, yet has her daddy wrapped so tightly around her finger all she has to do is ask and he caves. That's quite a skill for a three year old. :0) She wants to know everything, learn everything, and do it all by herself. She lives for the companionship of friends and has never met a kid she couldn't win over. Then again, most adults are taken with her as well. She keeps me young at heart and helps me to remember that the simple things in life are the most important. I think she tells me she loves me at least ten times a day. And every time I remind myself how blessed I am to have two kids with such big hearts.

My favorite job in life is being a mom. No, not the laundry/dishwashing/cleaning/vaccuuming part. But the teaching, guiding, loving, and learning part. What a daunting task we are given as mothers, to raise little ones and try to mold them into respectful, intelligent, independant individuals who are not afraid to have a little personality. :0) The nurturing and care involved can be heart wrenching at times. I hate the discipline part of the job because I would love to just be their friend and play. But I know that my job is more important than simple friendship.

Do you ever wonder if your heart has grown so big with love for your kids that it takes up your entire chest? My kids are such a wonderful part of my life. I know for a fact that life would have been much different without the initial addition of Landon into my life. He gave me purpose and direction. I don't think he will ever know how grateful I am for that. And yes, I tend to boast and brag about what great kids I have, but I consider that to be a part of my job as their mother. I think we are all a bit partial to our own children. That's how it should be. I thank Heavenly Father every day for allowing my heart the ability to grow more than I ever thought was possible. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned FROM my kids and for adding such light and joy to my home. They are my sunshine.

An Attitude of Gratitude Day Three

2008-11-21T22:21:00.000-08:00

Though I tend to prefer being at home, I LOVE the company of others. I have a bit of an issue with being TOO LOUD. Honestly, I'm kind of weird too. AND...I talk a lot. So, as I'm sure you can guess, I can be a lot to handle. :0) Not everyone is able to handle my Ashlee-ness. I can't say that I blame them from shying away. I tend to wave my freak flag often.

And yet, this last year I have been able to form such wonderful friendships. I went to church with some of these people for over two years, and for the most part the relationships consisted mostly of chats at church and occassionally seeing each other at other events.

And then I moved last year. It had taken SO long to meet people and feel even a small bond with them, and so to realize I was going to have to start all over again was frustrating. What was also frustrating, was that my monthly Girls Night group had fizzled. Most of the ladies had either moved away, or weren't able to come anymore. So, I let it sit for a few months. It was hard. New home, new church family, no outlet of Girls Night.....it was kind of lonely.

In a desperate attempt to keep my relationships going with the chatty church ladies :0) {Do you like that name? I just made it up} I decided to redo my Girls Night group and add ALL of them to the list of participants. That was 14 months ago and since then, I have not only made so many wonderful NEW friends, but I have been able to keep intact friendships that I have had for years. These are ladies that can handle an Ashlee flag raising ceremony {remember I have a freak flag!}. They know me, but they accept me anyway. And honestly, I am so grateful for their friendship.

One of the most important aspects of life is in the relationships that we share with others. Through friends we not only have someone we are able to bond with, but we have a listening ear, an understanding heart, a built in therapist, and even just someone who can make us laugh. They help us to be better people by giving us the ability to see the world through their eyes and the willingness to give of ourselves unselfishly.

I am a better person because of the relationships I have with these wonderful women. I am so blessed to have each of them in my life and am so grateful for all they do for me. Their support and the kindness they have shown to me mean more than they could ever realize.

So, ladies....thanks. For seeing who I really am, and yet still willing to tolerate me. You rock.

{BTW...if you're not pictured here that doesn't mean you're not on the "YOU ROCK" list. I just don't have a pic of you. :0) }

An Attitude of Gratitude Day Two

2008-11-21T15:00:00.000-08:00

I decided to go back to school in February. It had been eating me up for MONTHS as to what to do. I wanted to go back, but I knew how much it would cost. The other difficult part was that I have a toddler, so going to an actual campus wasn't really ideal. What would I do with her? Wasn't one of the perks of staying home that I avoided day care costs? I was frustrated.

I don't know why I paid any attention to the flashing ads on the computer screen that day, but I'm glad I did. Online courses! DUH!

So, I responded to the ad stating I just wanted the basic information. I was skeptical. Well, instead of an email, I ended up with a phone call.

Which I did NOT answer. I hadn't even talked to the hubby about it yet. I was scared. I was nervous. But I HAD to know if it was really possible. So, after their fourth attempt to get ahold of me, I answered the phone.

That poor man didn't know what he was in for. :0) I threw questions at him left and right. What was nice, was that he had all of the answers to my questions and I realized it really was a possibility. The costs of attending school online would not be much more than attending the one here after buying books and paying for daycare. I just had to talk to the hubby about it.

I think part of me wanted him to say no. I was still scared. I was excited though. I felt as though I would have something to truly work towards....you know...besides laundry and dishes. And, because I have the most amazingly supportive husband he didn't even hesitate to say yes. In fact, he said, "Once you graduate you can be my sugar mamma!" {yes, sarcasm runs deep in both of us...it's why we click so well}

So, I took the plunge. I started two weeks later. Though it has been hard getting back into learning mode, it has been wonderful. I feel more fulfilled than I have in a while. I am truly grateful that I live in an age where I have the ability to not only be a mom at home, but also to be able to pursue my dreams with ease. Technology is an amazing gift. I am so blessed to have this opportunity to continue my education and for a wonderful family who has supported me in my decision. It has not been easy on them because it does take a lot of my time away from them. I may be physically with them at home, but often I am studying or on the computer doing homework. They have been so patient with me and I cannot thank them enough for allowing me to be a bit selfish. :0)

BTW....I am also grateful that I have been able to get A's in every class so far. I don't know how much longer I will be able to keep the streak going, but WAHOO! :0)

An Attitude of Gratitude

2008-11-20T11:57:00.000-08:00

Is it weird for anyone else that Thanksgiving is already here? One week from today we will all be eating plates full of yummy turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes {from Idaho of course}, and lots of pie! The year has flown by so quickly as I look back, and yet in the middle of each struggle it has felt as though time wasn't moving quickly enough.

So, I thought it was high time I took a moment to reflect on the things I have been grateful for this year. It's one week until Thanksgiving, so I will post each day until then with something that I am grateful for. There are obviously more than seven things to be thankful for, but I'll just touch base on a few things from this year. :0)

Here we go!

This year we have experienced no serious medical problems. This is the first time in several years that there have been no worries. It has been such a relief to have a healthy family. Mackenzee was born with reflux and struggled with it until she was 15 months old. We were able to take her off of her medication at that point. We still have to watch the foods she eats to make sure her digestive system works properly, but at least the frequent trips to the doctor and the daily doses of Prevacid are no more. My health has been an issue for the last couple of years as well, and though I'm still not 100%, I am in a far healthier state.

So, I am grateful for our health. I think it is something we tend to take for granted at times. We just assume that the worst that can happen is a cold or the flu. And with sickness comes heartache, frustration, and exhaustion. I don't know what the future will bring, but this year we have truly been blessed and I am grateful for it.

Thoughts

2008-11-16T10:41:00.000-08:00

THOUGHTS:

I search: for answers to my deep questions. I wish I knew who to ask.

I wonder: if I'm doing enough as a parent.

I regret: hurtful words I have used against others. I wish I could take them all back.

I love: Jaysen, Landon, Mackenzee...with all my heart

I care: about the self esteem of others. Be proud of who you are. No accomplishments are too small.

I think: I think too much. I wish I could turn off my brain sometimes.....

I worry: about harm coming to my family.

I am not: a stereotype. Try me out...you'd be surprised what you find out. :0)

I remember: to look at my calendar so I can remember what I have going on from day to day.

I believe: as humans we each have ingrained in us the ability to nurture and care for others.

I wish: we would use that ability more often.

I sing: every day. It may not sound good, but it's truly therapeutic. Especially when the kids join in.

I dance: in the kitchen...every day...while I'm singing. The kids have been known to get their groove on with me. :0)

I don’t always: practice patience. I'm trying....

I argue: because I have an opinion. I realize I may not always be right...but I'll be darned if I won't try to convince you my way is better! :0)

I write: essays for school that exhaust my brain

I am grateful: that I have a hubby who is awesome enough to support me as I try to exhaust my brain taking these courses. That he is nice enough to listen to me drone on about subjects he could care less about.

I win: every time my kid remembers something I have taught them.

I lose: when I am quick to judge others. The first impression is not always an accurate assessment.

I listen: I try anyway...I'm usually talking too much to let anyone else get a word in. I'm working on that one....thanks for still being my friends. :0)

I play: music almost all day in my house.

I don’t understand: why people feel it is ok to hurt others with their ignorant opinions. Speaking your mind is not always the best policy. Especially with those you care about.

I can usually be found: cleaning, blogging, doing homework....it is the life I lead....

I am scared: of spiders...and the dark. Don't even get me started on worrying about spiders getting me in the dark!

I need to understand: right now....nutritional science and positive psychology. I'll let you know when that changes.

I forget: that life is not about perfection in everything, but about enjoying the everyday moments.

I am happy: when I am with those I love that love me in return.

What are your thoughts?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-12T09:19:00.000-08:00

Ok...I'm going to change this to Unwordless Wednesday because I end up having to explain in the comments anyway. :0)

I took this pic down at Shoshone Falls. It is so gorgeous down there this time of year. The colors are beautiful. Anyone who has not been down there this fall needs to hop on down and take it in. Go for a walk...you won't be dissapointed. Make sure you take your camera!

Steps to a healthier you

2008-11-08T09:16:00.000-08:00

That right my inter-peeps. I've gone healthy.

I know...I'll give you a second to let the shock wear off.

Last week I started my Nutritional Science class and the first assignment involved the use of a food diary. {YIKES} I then had to weigh my food choices against the recommended servings from MyPyramid, which is the latest version of the Food Pyramid. You can go to MyPyramid Tracker and do the same if you'd like to check it out.

Turns out, though I thought I ate fairly good {not counting the splurges on baked goods} I found that the majority of the food I eat is basically empty calories. Lots and lots of calories...with absolutely no nutritional value.

So, I did some research {because I had to for the assignment} and found out which were the better foods and did all my grocery shopping based on that list. It took me FOR-E-VER to do my shopping this last time. Reading labels and comparing labels is rather time consuming. And this time I wasn't just quickly scanning the fat content like I normally did before. I was looking for the iron and calcium and vitamins and fiber that the food contained. I also had to check the ingredient list to make sure that foods saying they were multigrain, or whole wheat actually contained substantial amounts of those items. You'd be surprised at how many foods claiming to be better are really the exact same as the original.

Anyway...I have been eating this way for almost two weeks now. And let me tell you....I eat A LOT of food. I had no idea I could eat this much food and still stay within my limits. Turns out fruits and vegetables really are good for you. Crazy! :0)

Three cups of milk per day

Two cups of fruit per day

Three cups of vegetables per day

5.5 ounces of meats or beans per day

6 ounces of grains per day

See? Lots of food! I thought I had to be hungry to lose weight. I have already lost a pound, and honestly, I wasn't really even trying. I was just eating, and learning to eat while I did it. I can now say that I get a full days supply of all of the essential vitamins and minerals required each day....simply by eating. And not over-eating....just eating GOOD. I have never gone over my calorie recommendations, nor the fat recommendations. In fact, I'm usually on the low side...but I'm full. I am full...my tummy is happy.

And that makes me happy.

So, go check out the website. Fill out your food diary and see what you are getting out of your daily food intake. Are you healthy?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-04T21:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas in a Can

2008-11-01T17:04:00.000-07:00

This project has taken over my mind! As part of my church calling, I am one of three in charge of Super Saturday for my ward. What is this you ask? It is a day where all of the ladies get together and get their craft ON. :0) After helping to come up with enough fun things for everyone to do, I was put in charge of "Christmas in a Can". I was given an example of what another ward had done, and though I thought it was cute and a really good idea, I wanted to do something a bit different with it. Why? Because I like to go crazy trying to come up with something that hopefully EVERYONE will enjoy. Sigh. Ok, really, I just can't seem to stop myself from adding more things to my list.

Honestly, though it took oodles of hours to come up with an idea and then try to find things that would go along with that idea, I am really pleased with the outcome. It turned out great and I was able to stay within my $10 budget.

Here is my version of Christmas in a Can....

There is a talk in the December 2001 Ensign Magazine by President Faust about the Five True Gifts of Christmas. I based my can on this.

Tucked neatly inside this paint bucket are five "gifts".

First...the gift of PEACE.

It is a little sachet of bath essence. :0)

Second....the gift of SELF.

It is a "To-Do List" notepad.

Third....the gift of LOVE.

I found this picture at my local Church bookstore. The description on the back talk about the love of Christ.

Fourth...the gift of SERVICE.

I had a hard time with this one because it is so similar to the gift of Self. But then I found this cute idea and knew it was perfect.

Finally...the gift of FAITH.

After all...what is Christmas if you do not believe?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-29T07:49:00.000-07:00

Ask and you shall receive

2008-10-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

Remember my post on how much I LOVE Halloween?

Remember how I posted what my costume was?

REmember how you asked me to post a picture so that I could show you all how super sexy I looked in my pirate costume?

Because I love you all SOOOOO much.....I am sharing my hotness with you.

That's right....a Clone Trooper, a Pirate, a fairy, and a police officer walk into a bar. One says, I'm an android and androids don't drink, the fiary says, "I'm only three, I can't drink", and the officer says, "I'm on duty ma'am, there'll be no drinking tonight." So, the pirate vixen tightened up her little corset {Can I tell you how annoying that thing was?} and went off to add the lime juice to the frozen brain instead of the "good stuff" she was hoping for. :0)

Ok...so that whole thing was made up...except for the floating brain in lime juice. I did have one of those.

Seriously though....is my hubby not the hottest thing? Wow! Sure, his friends teased him about looking like a male stripper....but I thought he just looked nice in his fake little uniform with his hat. Oh yeah..... :0)

Perfect!

2008-10-23T21:40:00.000-07:00

Sister Sassy had a contest this week {Keeping my fingers crossed that I win!} about music and how it has the ability to be in touch with your emotions. So much so, that it can heal you, inspire you, or even hurt you.

Her post made me reflect on the music from my life. As most of my readers know I am a HUGE fan of music. In fact, my iTunes list has everything from Show Tunes, to Classical, to Alternative, to even Rock and Hip Hop. I love music. For so many reasons. I grew up with music in my home. Maybe that is why I feel such a connection to it. My mom would play songs on the piano and me and my sisters and brother would stand around the piano and sing along. They are some of my favorite memories.

I have found that for every emotion I have felt, there is the perfect song. :0) Kind of like the perfect cheer. :0)

Now, I am not having a wicked awesome contest like Sassy. BUT! I wanna know...is there a song that has meaning to you? A song that has helped you through a difficult time? That hurt you? That made you aspire to be more? Tell me! Maybe there is a song that I am missing in my collection. :0)

I'll share a few of mine in the mean time....

Bring on the Rain - JoDee Messina {I know Montay...it's country. See? We can still be friends}
You're Not Alone - Michael McLean
I'll Try - Jonatha Brooke
Miss You When You're Gone - Cranberries
River Lullaby - Hans Zimmer
I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor
Four Seasons - Vivaldi
Perfect - Alanis Morissette
Never There - Hoobastank
Cry - Faith Hill
Answered Prayer - Keri Noble

A lost art?

2008-10-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

I don't sew. I have a sewing machine....but I don't sew. I WANT to sew....but I don't sew.

I'm in charge of Super Saturday {craft day for women} and have come up with some great ideas for varying forms of "craftiness" for the ladies to do. I know that there are some that are not into paper crafting, and therefore would enjoy doing a different form of homemade gift. I thought perhaps something that was sewn would be different and cater to those who prefer that form of creativity. I thought perhaps a "sew easy" project like placemat scripture totes would be something fun and different. The other one is slightly harder, but still an easy pattern that could be completed quickly. My mom made a mini apron for my daughter a couple of years back and she loves it. It is similar to the one that my mom made for me when I was little {the only difference is the color}. I thought it would be fun to include this item as an option, though I thought making it a mommy and me apron class would be even more fun. That way the ladies could make matching aprons for them and their daughter/granddaughter if they wanted to.

So, my excitement at these fun ideas was bubbling over. Now...trying to find someone who can sew and would be willing to be in charge of demonstrating how to create the project. Ummm.....{imagine crickets chirping}.

Yes, that's right. I'm finding that a lot of women are like me and have no idea how to sew. Most WANT to be able to sew. But they do not sew.

No worries....I will find someone, that is not the purpose of this post.

I just want to know....do any of you sew? Do you WANT to sew? I'm wondering if this is becoming a lost art. You know? My mother is an amazing seamstress and my grandmother is the queen seamstress of them all {I'm not kidding...she is amazing}. But, it stopped at my mothers generation in this family. I WILL learn at some point. Finding the time to squeeze it in is my struggle. I barely find time to squeeze in a daily shower, let alone sit down for several hours to complete a sewing project. BUT! One of these days I will!

I'll let you know how it goes....

:0)

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

There were about five hummingbirds all swarming around the feeder at my in-laws house that day. It was so hard to catch a shot of any of them because they dart around so quickly. It was crazy!

And....action!

2008-10-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

For some reason, Jaysen and I have been in serious movie-mode lately. We have watched oodles of them. Some were good...some were not worth my time. So, I thought I would share my thoughts to keep you from making the same mistakes I did. :0)

I had never even heard of this one, but we saw it in the video store and thought it would be nice to watch something different. It wasn't BAD, but it was a bit jumpy and at times hard to follow. And...the ending was WAY not what I expected.
Yes, we rented the Love Guru. My hubby likes comedies such as this. And, as always...it was totally retarded. Not to say that I didn't laugh. Because I did. It was just dumb. You know what I mean?
I got this one to watch while my neice was visiting. It was a special request from her. :0) I have to say that I thought it was super cute. A very good tween movie with a good mystery in it...all Nancy Drew style. Good stuff!
This one was kind of predictable and cheesy. Sorry if I have offended anyone by that. :0) But seriously...he jumps on a horse and rides across the island to stop the wedding? Really?

When I saw the previews for this one my first thought was....no way. EVER. It looked dumb. But the hubby likes stuff like this, so in the Netflix queue it went. I was pleasantly surprised! It wasn't at all what I thought it would be, and the trailer did not portray the true theme for the movie at all.
Um...this one is up there with my favorite movies of all time. I love music {as most of you know} and I truly enjoyed how they brought out the "music of life" in this. The kid does such a great job. When it was done {after I wiped away a few tears} I looked at Jaysen and asked him what he thought. I was sure he wouldn't like it becuase he has hated every other musical I have made him watch with me. But, he surprised me by saying he REALLY liked it. He even told me to go and buy the soundtrack {I had already found the songs on iTunes...} :0)
This one was another awesome one. I love Steve Carell. Am I the only one that thinks he is just a teensy bit handsome? I am? Oh well.
I am ashamed to admit that I did watch this...and thought it was the most retarded movie I have seen in a very long time. Don't even bother. {Jaysen laughed}
Iron Man...not what I expected, but it was good. I knew nothing about Iron Man before watching this movie, and so I wasn't sure what I was getting myself into, but it was decent. Jaysen loves it.

This one was for Mackenzee for her birthday. For those of you who are not aware of the existence of Miss Abby Cadabby..you are missing out. She is the newest Muppet Character on Sesame Street and is the cutest thing. She is a fairy in training {as her parents are both fairies} and she is three years old. She has a hard time with magic and tends to turn things into pumpkins. :0) This movie is a spoof of Alice in Wonderland, done up Sesame Street style {with all your favorite characters}. Mackenzee loves it. :0)

I hope these reviews will help to save at least a few of you from making the mistakes that I made. Some movies are just not WORTH IT. :0)

getting crafty-wafty

2008-10-12T10:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's right. I got my "craft" on for Girls Night this last week. My friend, Montay, was awesome enough to host and made kits for each of us to create this beautiful masterpiece.

Sorry for the poor picture quality...I just took a quick snap so I could share with you. :0)

It is a standing recipe holder. We each brought our own coordinating papers and ribbons and then proceeded to mod podge the papers onto the boards and ink the crap out of them.

The ginormous rings at the top make it possible for you to lift each section up to view the index card recipes. I obviously haven't gotten to stuffing mine with recipes yet. :0)

Anyway...we had so much fun and I got to take this home! Thanks so much Montay for being such an awesome host and for putting so much time and effort into these kits for us. You rock!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-08T07:39:00.000-07:00

It's my baby's birthday on Sunday.

*sniff, sniff*

Further quirkiness revealed

2008-10-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

I did this tag back in February, but just got tagged with it again and figured...why not? I freakish enough that I always have quirks that people find odd. :0) For the original quirky tag post go here...

http://random-ashlee.blogspot.com/2008/02/me-quirky-not-even.html

As for now...off I go. This is a tag where you name 6 non-important quirks you have. Though all of MY quirks are WAY important...

1. My "getting ready" rituals must be done in the same order. When I shower, it is shampoo and conditioner and THEN soap. It cannot be the other way around. Also, the hair must be done before the make-up is put on. AND...teeth must be brushed prior to putting on make-up.

2. I hate to drink milk. I can't do it. I even tried to last week, but it was SO gross! I can use it for cereal and for baking...and love chocolate milk...but I can't drink just a plain old glass of milk.

3. I buy my Christmas presents MONTHS early. In fact, I have all but one Christmas present purchased for this year. I know what is coming and try to get it out of the way before the season starts and gets hectic. In fact, I usually have my Christmas cards all done and ready to mail out on December 1. Another thing on the list to get checked off quickly. I know...I'm a freak.

4. I hate wearing socks. I can hardly stand it. My feet get claustrophobic if I wear them for too long.

5. Purple is my least favorite color. For those of you that like it...please skip this next part so I do not offend you...

It is UGLY! I'm not talking plum or even lavendar. Those I can handle. But purple...like the purple crayon in the crayon box....so not a good color.

I told you purple-lovers not to read that part! :0)

6. It drives me crazy when people say words wrong. Like "crick" instead of "creek", and "fustrating" instead of "frustrating", and "warsh" instead of "wash". Holy cow! Enunciation people! Ok....so I know some of it has to do with where you live and it's an accent. But I notice it...and I can't help it. I had a friend from the Midwest who always said "beg" instead of "bag". What? Sigh....

So there you have it. Further quirkiness revealed. I'm sure I've lost at least a few friends who are now so scared of me they would rather just stay away. It's ok...I understand. I scare myself sometimes. :0)

Thanks Jamee for the tag! If any of you are wanting to play along, consider yourself tagged!

Go team!

Boo! Did I scare you?

2008-10-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

October is one of my favorite months. My family celebrates several birthdays this month, including my daughter, who will be three this month.
But, the best part about October......

is Halloween. It's one of my favorite holidays. Why? Because I get to have fun with it. :0) Let me share.....

First of all...to get into the proper spooky spirit, one must watch Tim Burton's "The Nightmare Before Christmas". This is one of the most awesome movies ever made.

Then, you must go to the pumpkin patch. Yes, I know it is cheaper to buy your pumpkins at the grocery store...but do your kids get to go through the hay maze? Or climb the hay tower? Or ride the pumpkin express? Besides...what toddler doesn't love pulling around their own little red wagon and filling it up with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes?

After selecting your most favorite pumpkins....it is essential that you get down and dirty and carve at least a few of those babies. The year that Mackenzee had just turned 1 we put a binky in the mouth of her little pumpkin. It was super cute. :0)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeZftK2kO6U&feature=related

And then of course, you must properly party down, Monster Style. Trick or treating is a must, and it is WAY more fun if you are in costume as well. :0)

This is my costume this year. You think I'm kidding? Not even remotely. It's hanging up in my closet as we speak. :0) I'm going to be Ashlee, the Sassy Pirate Maiden.

Don't mess with me. :0) I'll make you walk the plank.

So, what are your favorite fall/Halloween things to do? Anything I've missed?

2008-09-29T22:24:00.000-07:00

This is a meme that has been passed around, so now it is MY turn to fill you in on all the dirty little secrets about the hubby....you ready for this? {seriuosly, my Ambien has kicked in and I al losing a bit of my normal functioning as my body would like to go to sleep.} But NO, I must blog! I must share love with all of my "devoted" readers. Because I know that what I writie about is to good to pass up, right? :)

" All about your spouse"

1. What's his name?Jaysen
2. How long have you been together? We met October 9th five years ago, and got married May 22. So, in essence we met October 9, 2003.
3. How long did you date? 8 months
4. Who eats more?Usually me. food is good.
5. Who said 'I love you,' first? It is one of my favorite memories. We were sitting together on his couch and he was acting really wierd while were were talking and he said {very quietly} I think "I'm in love with you. But I don't know how you feel about me." It was very sweet. Poor guy. I of course came to his rescue and gave his answer, but he said it out loud FIRST.
6.Who is taller? Him
7. Who is the better singer? Me. I'm just glad that he tries sometimes. :0)
8. Who is smarter?Book smart? Street Smart? I need a better defenition on this one. I don't think that one of us is smarter than the other as a whole. He know so many things that I don't, and it goes the other way. I just like to think that our combined smarts work well in getting us from point A to point B. You know?
9. Who does the laundry? Me. He is not allowed. Unless it's just towels. I have a process and he messes it up. And honestly, he doesn't fold the towels right. Sigh.
10. Who does the dishes? Mostly me, but he chips in when I need an extra hand.
11. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? WHo's right? Mine or yours? :0) JUST KIDDING! I sleep on the right side of the bed.
12. Who pays the bills? Me
13. Who mows the lawn?He does.
14. Who cooks dinner? Mostly me, but he is the breakfast man.
15. Who drives when you are together?Jaysen
16. Who is more stubborn?Probably me, though he can get pretty stubborn at times too. :0)
17. Who kissed who first?He kissed me first.
18. Who asked out who?Well, I'm assuming that since I didn't ask him out, then he asked me out. It was a blind date, so maybe he didn't ask me out either and we were just told to show up together at a restaurant with the matchmakers. SO, perhaps the matchmakers asked us both out. You think?
19. Who proposed?He did.
20. Who is more sensitive?Me
21. Who has more friends?He does.
22. Who likes sports more?Him
23. Who watches more t.v.?Him
24. Who dresses the most fashionable? I think it would depend on your sense of fashion. :0)
25. Who is the funniest? Again, a definition would be helpful, because Jaysen's sense of humor is....well.....different. I laugh A LOT. But too many people just don't get it. But I don't find my self to be super funny either. So, we may just have to call this one a draw. We are one buh unfunny couple. Oh well!

Know you know about me and the hubby...to a certain extent...delving further into our relationship may scar you for life. :0) We have good times in this house. Two cutie Patootie kids and enough sass that we could bottle it all sell it and become millionaires. :0)

Maybe then we could save the economy, because nobody else seems to know what the hell we're supposed to do.

Go team!

Girls Just Want to Have Fun

2008-09-25T07:46:00.000-07:00

As many of my devoted readers know....{mostly because you come to Girls Night}, the 2nd Thursday of every month is Girls Night. A night away from hubbies and kids to play and chat and nibble on yummy treats. I formed this group after my daughter was born. She had really bad reflux and cried nonstop. The hubby kept telling me to get out of the house for a breather, but I didn't have anywhere to go. {shopping costs money...dangit!} Thus began my monthly retreats into sanity-land. It began in February of 2006 and though the people have come and gone....it has been one of the best ways I have had to form amazing friendships.

Here's the thing though....after 2 1/2 years {almost} of doing this, my creativity is beginning to get tapped out. Trying to figure out something to do every month for a group of ladies with different types of personalities that will be wicked awesome fun is getting harder and harder. I have some great ideas, but know that many would not be too keen on participating. :0) I can get a little crazy, but I know not everyone is comfortable with looking silly in public. {Though I was pleasantly surprised at their willingness to let loose last month during the photo scavenger hunt} So, I am turn to you, my interpeeps. Any great ideas? I still have a few left up my sleeve, and I gave my ladies an ultimatum several months back and forced them to cough up a few ideas of their own. :0) But those too, will run out in time.

What have we done so far you ask? Let me share...

Bunco, baby shower, pedicure night, photo scavenger hunt, unbirthday party, game night, going to the movies, death by chocolate, Christmas craft exchange, scrapbooking, craft night, going out to dinner, painting pottery, and going out for dessert. {notice food is involved most of the time}

We try not to spend too much money so that it doesn't get out of hand, though sometimes it is unavoidable. I am dying to have an 80s night at the roller skating rink....but several people have already nixed that idea. {wouldn't it be fun to dress up in 80s clothes, which is now highly available in most stores...} I've thought about doing a bit of Crazy bowling, which involves making each frame a challenge. For example, bowling in slow motion, backwards, sitting down, eyes closed...you get the idea. But again...pretty sure it's not gonna happen.

So, my readers...fill me in with all of your fabulous ideas! Give a girl a hand. And then go start a group of your own! We have so much fun and enjoy our monthly break from the daily humdrum. But my girls night girls....no more hair dying! It has been officially taken off the table as possible options. Kapish?

I'll be waiting for your ideas.......

Still waiting!

Uppercase Living

2008-09-20T18:14:00.000-07:00

I am in love.

Don't tell my husband. :0)

Long story here.....

One of the blog's I frequent had a post about this fabulous "home party" that she was selling products for. The company is called Uppercase Living and after looking at the photos of what they had to offer, I was sold. COMPLETELY. So, I sent a note to the consultant and told her I wanted to throw a party. But, see.....I'm not the most patient person. And, I found out that a friend of mine was selling the stuff here.....where I live.....

So, I caved and had my friend here do it. {Sorry Katie! You still love me?}

I may have to take out a loan to pay for all of the products that I want. Take a peek.

This one will go in my guest bath upstairs. There is another one that says "Wash your hands...mom said so" that I am going to put in the kids bathroom downstairs. :0)
This one I am going to put on the wall by my stairwell that I have been frustrated with what I should put there. Pretty huh?
This is why I love this company. It's not just words and fonts and colors....it's phrases and shapes and "whoop-do-do's". It's the WHOLE package. And I don't have to think or be creative because they do it for me.
Isn't this adorable? I have so many Christmas gifts now completely taken care of!
They have girl stuff....and boy stuff....holy cow. I'm like a kid in a candy store. I want IT ALL! :0)

How about you? You interested?

I thought so. :0)

Go here and you can look through the ENTIRE catalog. And...ummm....Sara is totally set up to take Visa. Not that you would need to use yours or anything.....

Her email address is on her website...you can just email your order to her.

And because you love me so much....could you put my name in the email? I love free stuff....and I would totally get some that way. :0) Oh....and I love you too. :0)

The Big Book of Boy Stuff

2008-09-18T10:09:00.000-07:00

I found this book in Costco last week and knew I needed to get it for my son for Christmas. {Yes, I realize we haven't even had Halloween yet, but this mama gets started WAY early on her shopping.}

Anyway...I was flipping through some of the pages the other night and came across this little tidbit of information:

Fun Snot Facts

For a time, there was a delicious candy on the market called Snot Candy. It came in a big plastic nose. To get the gooey candy out, you had to stick a finger up the container's nostril. Of course, Snot Candy had a mascot: everyone's favorite superhero, Loogie Man!

There is an Eskimo tribe that has a unique solution to a baby's stuffed nose. The mother sucks the snot out of the baby's nose and then spits it on the ground!

We all know what diarrhea is, but did you know you can have the same problem from your nose? "Rhinorrhea" {ri-no-ree-uh} is the word used to describe a lot of really runny mucus coming out of your nose.

Now you know....

and knowing is half the battle. Aren't you glad I shared?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

Girls Weekend

2008-09-14T19:13:00.000-07:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

We had another girls scrapping weekend at my mom's house this last week and had so much fun. My two sisters, my mom, my neice, and I were able to get together to scrap till we dropped for three days and we had so much fun. {Holly....we missed you! But we hope you had a great weekend with Cam!} I got oodles of pages done and had a great time chatting and laughing with my sisters and mom. This was the first time my neice was able to come, and it was fun to have some young blood around. She couldn't handle the constant scrapping and so she took several tv breaks in between pages. :0) It will be a while before we all are able to get together again to do this, but I'm hoping it won't be that long before I get to scrap again. My scrap room is almost ready for me to break it in....I can't wait!

Photo Scavenger Hunt

2008-09-12T07:19:00.000-07:00

Last night was crazy fun ladies! Thank you so much for being so willing to be a little adventurous. :0)

As many of you know, I have a monthly girls night group. This month I was in charge and we did a photo scavenger hunt. Not like your typical hunt though. The rules were a bit different. We were split into two groups and each group was given the same categories. All of the members of the group had to be included in the photo except for the one taking the picture and the photographer had to be different for each photograph {that way there would be pictures of everyone in the group at some point}. The categories were vague and up for interpretation, and everyone was told to just be as creative as possible.

What were the categories you ask?

Sharing is Caring

Happy Birthday to you

Animal

These are "piggies" :0)

Playtime

Splish Splash

Music Interpretation

Rainbow

And....action!

One of these things is not like the other

Do you know your shapes?

Where's Waldo?

An unusual perspective

That's fierce

And then...find a stranger to take your picture and then convince them to pose in a picture with you.

I think everyone did a fabulous job and it was so fun to go and play. It felt like I was in college again. :0) Even more so when after most everyone left and it was 10:45 and the four us left decided to make a run for hair dye. Yes...it got a little crazy. Montay has never dyed her hair before. NEVER! {feigning shock} So, we got her a Cinnamony color to put on over her brown. Amy had Tess put in blonde highlights. I was going to darken my brown, but because it was later than I was used to for having to think....instead of mixing the activator with the color....I put the conditioner in the activator bottle. Sigh....so my hair is really conditioned now after leaving it in for 25 minutes...but there is no color. Dumb girl. After everyone was almost done....Tess decided to use what was left of Montay's red color and have Montay highlight her hair with it using foil instead of the cap. It was a crazy night people! Montay looks so super sassy hot with her new auburn color. I'm loving it! Amy still looks like Amy...because she's been blonder before. :0) But Amy is cute...so that means she is still cute. Tess was no so happy with her outcome as her highlights ended up being more burgundy than red. Thankfully, it was the same kind that I used last month and it will wash out in 28 days. It looks fun and sassy, but I know when it is your hair, it doesn't seem as fun. :0)

Anyway....it was another eventful evening for girls night. I live for this night every month. It is my reprieve from being an "old" mom.

Fringe....for the geek in all of us

2008-09-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

Did you watch this show? It was SO good. I am going to be glued to my tv set Tuesday nights from now on. If any of you were a fan of the X-files...this show will be right up your alley. Yes, my name is Ashlee, and I was an X-files geek. :0) Not that I really believe that aliens come and abduct people and what not, it was just something different and interesting. You know? And now....they have blessed us with 'Fringe' to feed our fascination with all things wierd. :0)

This show doesn't have to do with aliens. It has to do with psuedoscience {sp?}. You know, like teleportation, mind reading, black matter, etc. Wierd science stuff that can't possibly be real....or can it? :0) The show is about a scientist who has found ways in which these theories can become actualities. Unfortunately, there is a "bad guy" who has the knowledge of these things as well and is using them as part of something "bigger" and more sinister.

The main character is a female {ROCK ON!} and she is attempting to find out "the truth". :0) Plus....Joshua Jackson is in the show too...and he is definitely yummy. :0)

So, check it out. Let me know what you think! The show airs on Fox and they are doing an encore presentation of this first episode on Sunday.

US Citizenship and Immigration Services

2008-09-09T13:51:00.001-07:00

OK people....my latest assignment has to do with modern challenges in immigration. The questions I am being asked are rather thought provoking so I thought I would pose them to you as well. :0)

Should US Government policy favor certain kinds of immigrants?

Should {citizenship}preference be given to the neediest applicants? The most talented? The most oppressed? The richest?

Should applicants from certain countries be given priority?

What do you think? Would you want to immigrate to the United States? If so, how come? You can go here to learn about the process that immigrants have to go through to become a US Citizen. It's quite the process.

Let me know what you think! :0)

Five Senses Meme

2008-09-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

Bonnie came up with this one and I thought it was cute and different. And since she tagged everyone, that does include me. So, here we go!

1. Sight - My kids getting along. They are almost 6 years apart in age, and though they love each other fiercely, they fight A LOT. My 8 year old is a bully to his little sister because he's bigger than her, and my 2 year old is a pest to her older brother because she loves to push his buttons. Sigh. BUT! Every now and again they click and I love nothing more than to see them playing together so nicely. It is a nice reprieve. :0)

2. Smell - I am a freak about smells. In fact, if something smells bad I will hold my breath until I can get back into a "safe zone". I don't want to inhale the stink. Weird huh? Oh well. Anyway, so it makes it hard for me to pick just ONE favorite smell. I love the smell of baking bread, and my hubby's cologne, my kids freshly shampooed heads, dryer sheets, and lavendar.

3. Sound - This is another hard sound to narrow down to one choice. But, as most of you already know, I LOVE music. So, I'll just go with that whole generic category for my choice of favorite sound. I normally have music playing non-stop at home. I think I would go crazy without it. :0) I also love to hear my kids singing along to the songs. Nothing better. :0)

4. Taste - These categories are so hard to narrow down! Holy cow! This one, though, I think I would have to say chocolate. :0) But not just any chocolate. The darker the better. I love the taste of dark chocolate....the I prefer mine frozen. There is nothing better than biting into a bar of frozen dark chocolate. I'm not kidding either....you should try it. :0)

5. Touch - Oddly enough, I am not a touchy feely person. I like my space and tend to feel a bit claustrophobic when even my kids get too cuddly. Sad, huh? But, my even so, my favorite thing to touch would have to be the faces of my kids. I love to hold their little heads in my arms and play with their hair, or stroke their cheeks, or tickle them under their chins. Those are some of my favorite moments. :0)

So, now that you have the general idea of how to play....get on with it! I tag all of you that wish to play. Thanks. Bonnie, for the great idea of this one. It was fun and yet oddly hard to think of my favorites for each of my senses. I look forward to seeing what the rest of you have for answers.

I'm putting in my angry eyes!

2008-09-03T19:59:00.000-07:00

Did any of you read this? I am livid! Livid I tell you! Because one person decided to be dishonest in their dealings with their fellow man, the rest of us will suffer. Isn't that how it usually works? Sigh.

The book I just told you all to go read Chapter 1 of....has been indefinitely postponed. I am truly saddened by this as I was really looking forward to this next installment of the Twilight series. Alicia...you need to convince her to finish it and then give me a copy. :0) Tell her I promise to respect her copyright priviliges and refuse to share it with anyone else. To the rest of you....I'm sorry....you'll just have to wish you were me. :0) OK, so I'm kidding here. But seriously...Stephenie....if you are reading this {which I'm sure you are because my blog is THAT popular} please finish it! I need more Edward and Bella. It's a sickness...I know. Even after reading Breaking Dawn and being sad that there wasn't a big fight at the end where the bad guys were demolished....I still love them.

Sigh.

You can still go to her website to read the portion that she has written of this novel. She decided to share that much with the public as it had already been leaked. Sniff. I'll just never know the whole story from Edward's point of view. Sniff.

Edward's Story

2008-09-02T16:08:00.001-07:00

Just in case you hadn't gotten your hands on the first chapter of Stephenie Meyers next book, I'll share with you the website so you can read it for yourself. So far...I'm loving it. It is Twilight again, but this time through the eyes of Edward Cullen. So glad to know I won't have to miss him for too long. :0)

http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/pdf/midnightsun_chapter1.pdf

Letter Perspectives

2008-08-31T08:22:00.000-07:00

My friend, Montay, told me about this great website and I have been excited about it ever since. It is called Letter Perspectives and it is basically a company that takes pictures of "letters" found in the world around us. They then take the individual shots and line them up to form words. So, you could spell LOVE or your last name or FAMILY...whatever you want. Well, we figured we could just do it ourselves. :0) Why not right? So, we went out to Grandpa's Farm and found so many fun letters! There are a few letters that are truly hard to find....like, B and R and G and P...the B I got is off of the Silo that is kept out by the cows.

So, did you figure out the rest of my letters? What do you think? It's interesting what you start to see in things once you start taking a good look.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-08-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

Crocs just for YOU!

2008-08-25T20:41:00.000-07:00

Do I have news for you!

I just found out about this new shoe line.

They are called Crocs. Basically, they are a plastic shoe with holes in it and if worn by a two year old girl will end up stinking worse than a skunk. {I'm not kidding}

Oh wait.....you've heard of these shoes before? OK...so have I.

They come in a variety of colors! Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, brown, black, gray, pink...you get the idea. You have a favorite color...I'm sure they sell a Croc in that color. I've been told they are super comfortable too. Which is apparently the draw, because honestly {no offense to anyone that owns a pair and LOVES them} I think they are ugly. Now, both of my children own a pair of crocs. So, I am not ANTI-Croc or anything. I just can't bring myself to even try on a pair. Even when they came out with the cute ballet flat Crocs. I still couldn't do it.

But after visiting the blog of Classy Chaos tonight....my whole vision of Crocs has changed.

You may need to sit down for this....or at least grab a napkin to wipe up the drool. :0)

YOU by Crocs!

Yes, these fabulously cute shoes are Crocs. Crazy huh? I would love a pair of those green ones. And those black wedges are definitely calling to me. Sigh. :0) Now, the only problem is that the prices of THESE Crocs are a bit more than THOSE Crocs. :0( Maybe if I'm a good girl this year Santa will bring me some. :0) If not...maybe they'll make some knock-offs of these Crocs like they did with the originals. Or...if you guys really love me...you can totally buy me a pair and give them to me as a late birthday present. :0) I wear an 8 1/2. {Just in case you were wondering}

Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West

2008-08-23T23:14:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't been able to make it to an actual city that has Broadway musicals...I've had to resort to watching the movie versions or reading the books. The latest on my list has been this one...

Can I just tell you how good this book is? The basic plot is how the Wicked Witch of the West became, well, WICKED. But it is so much deeper than that. The time is pre-Dorothy and actually begins with Elphaba {the Witches real name} still in her mommies tummy. And, instead of being mostly about the fantasy of the Land of Oz, as in the Wizard of Oz, this book focuses more on the Land of Oz itself. The different cultures and races and religions....it gets into the politics of the land as well. It is truly interesting and one of the better books I have read in a while.

I haven't finished it yet, but am getting closer. As I have continued on in my reading, I keep thinking about how impossible it would be to include all of the information in the book into a Broadway musical. I wonder if they have left anything out. Anybody out there that has read the book and seen the musical...fill me in. Otherwise, I guess I'll just have to wait. :0) I did download the entire Soundtrack today from iTunes. I have had 'Defying Gravity' in my collection for a bit, but have gotten so involved in the lives of Elphaba and Glinda that I wanted to hear the rest of the songs.

And, um, is it only me that gets teary eyed at some of the songs? That's what I do when I read a good book. I get INVOLVED and feel like I know the characters personally. And this book honestly makes me feel like I have misjudged the poor Wicked With my entire life. :0(

And....guess what I just found out? Wicked....is going to be made into a movie! Oh yeah! Sure, it's going to be a couple of years before it comes out...but still! That means there is truly hope for me to actually SEE what it would be like to go to the musical. Minus the stage...and props....and atmosphere...but you get the idea. :0)

Momma's Still Got It

2008-08-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

You know, one of my favorite things to do when I am bored? Check out the wierd searching terms people have used to find my blog. Google Analytics has made it possible for me to see that there are some people out there that are looking for information about WIERD things. You know?

Looks like you could use a stiff one
Jaw out of place
Prefer bare feet blog
Am I just like you? I can't help myself
I can't help myself when it comes to your house
OCD statistics and divorce rates
Pinch with my toes
Sexy inkblot test

Yes, it's true...all of these were search phrases that were typed into Google search and linked to MY blog. I've been waiting for a really good one to brag about...like "Smart and Sexy" or "Momma's Still Got It". But...nothing! Huh? Maybe I need to start writing about something more exciting.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-08-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

Shoes, glorious shoes!

2008-08-15T18:02:00.000-07:00

This summer I was able to add several new pairs of shoes to my collection. :0) Strangely enough, I went for color. I normally tend to stick with neutral tones as I know they are more "practical" as they can be worn with most everything. But, I was needing something a bit more fun and so I went out on a limb. I'm so glad I did as I have had so much fun wearing them! :0) So, I figured I'd let you "enjoy" them as well....

For my birthday, my sister in law, Holly, bought me these two pairs of shoes. Hot Pink wedges and sassy ice blue heels. I think this is what started my "color revolution". She was worried I wouldn't like them because I haven't really owned too many "colored" shoes. I think I have a pair of pink heels and a pair of red heels and that about covered my color collection up until this summer. Crazy, huh? I have had so much fun with the blue heels. :0)

I bought these a short while later on a whim. The print is little flowers and they are so cute. I struggled over whether or not to buy them because of the pattern. I wasn't sure if I would be able to match them with outfits well. So far so good, though. It helps that I don't wear many patterned outfits. I'm a jeans and tshirt kind of girl {interesting that I love heels huh?} so, my canvas is usually one toned. :0)

I bought these two pairs of shoes while on vacation last week. I know....bright yellow and kelly green? What was I thinking? For some reason I have become more than slightly obsessed over the color green. Who'd have thunk it? I've been sold over brown for over a decade, so to all of a sudden turn to such a bright color is odd even for me. But I'm loving it! And the yellow shoes were just fun.

Kenzee helped me put away all my shoes the other day {they were scattered all over the bedroom floor} and after they were all in their little cubbies she noticed there were still two whole spaces left empty. :0) She agreed that perhaps that meant that I needed to buy a few more pairs. Then again....she has about 8 pairs of her own. It's a sickness.....

Breaking Dawn Let Down

2008-08-09T14:53:00.000-07:00

That's right. You heard me. It was a let down. :0( The ending just didn't do it for me. The whole book was really good up until the very end. I was waiting for something big and important to happen and instead....it was like she had all this build up to....well....nothing. Nothing! Sigh. I won't go into further detail as I don't want to spoil it for other readers, but that's my thoughts on Breaking Dawn. I'm not saying that it's not worth reading. You have to have the story finished out. And, the author did a good job of tying up all of the bits and pieces leaving things GOOD. I can't explain because that would give it away. She is one creative and imaginative girl, that Stephenie. I also loved the mentioning of more family names within the book. For those of you that don't know, my friend is cousins with Ms. Meyer. Click on the Larsen family link on my sidebar there to get to her blog. If you read 'The Host' you know all about the main character, Melanie, who just so happens to be named after my friends sister. Yes, Alicia's family is now famous! :0) There are mentions of more family names in the other books as well. In the 4th book you will meet Rachel and EJ, which are also names of Alicia's siblings. {Though I was told that EJ was also the name of Stephenie's grandpa or something similar to that}.
Anyway...there you go. My review....let me know what you thought about it!

P.S.

It's three hours after I first posted this and I'm just letting you know that even though I was let down by the anticlimactic ending....

I miss Bella and Edward.

*sniff*

It's sad knowing there won't be any more stories about their life. I want to know what happens next still.

I know....I'm a vampire lover.

So sue me.

Does your mother know?

2008-08-06T20:24:00.000-07:00

First of all.....

did you miss me?

Or did you even notice it's been a week since I last posted? :0)

My vacation was wonderful. I will post about it later. I just wanted to quickly let you in on a little secret....

This movie...the one pictured above....

is FANTASTIC! :0)

I had been planning on seeing it for Girls Night next week for a while, but my MIL went to see it a couple of weeks ago and told me that I HAD to take my mom to go and see it. So, I called my mom, made a date, and honestly....it was better than I had expected. It was funny, had a great story line, the music was fun, and I almost teared up a few times. It was a really sweet story that had some really fun moments. I can only imagine how much fun the actors had as they did the scenes.

There was only one man in the theatre. I assume he went with his wife. :0) Otherwise, the theatre was full of ladies of ALL ages. And all of them laughed along with me and my mom. It was such a fun mom and me date. I'm so glad my MIL suggested it. Now, I can't wait to share it with all my girlfriends next week. It's one you wouldn't mind seeing a second time.

I'm off to download the songs off of iTunes!

Read any good books lately?

2008-07-30T22:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, Honey Bunch...this is for you. Don't say I never did anything for you. :0)
This is the list of books I have read since January {I think anyway...it's hard to keep track}. I love to read. I have been known to stay up until the wee hours of the night in order to finish a book. In fact, just the other night I was up until past 1:00 a.m. finishing off this one.....

This is the latest book by one of my new favorite authors, Stephenie Meyer. It was not at all what I expected it to be like. I knew it had to do with aliens taking over human bodies, but the story line was so intriguing and thought provoking it kind of took me off guard. It made you think about what qualities make humans truly human and perhaps if some of us don't act very humanely at all.
This one honestly, just looked interesting to me. I've always been curious about weegie boards, but never dared even touch one. Bad karma. The main character of this book is able to see and speak to the spirit of a man who was wrongly accused of several murders. Nobody else can see him but her, as she did the whole weegie board thing. The real murderer is back out on the prowl and so she has to try to figure it out with the help of a handsome policeman. Yeah, I know...typical story line. It was an ok book though.
This one was interesting. Two little twin girls are kidnapped. One is returned. The other is assumed dead. The one still alive appears to have some sort of "twin connection" with the other one, making some believe that her sister is really still alive and out there somewhere. Made me wonder if twins really do have that kind of connection. You've heard about twins separated at birth that knew they were "missing" something and ended up along similar paths in life. Weird stuff.
My friend, Alicia, totally hooked me up with this book. She literally brought it to my house. Now that I think of it, I read this in September. Oh well...can't leave it off the list right? I read the book in 2 days and borrowed the last two in the trilogy from her immediately after. I read the other two in only a couple more days. I couldn't put them down. When I was done with the third one, Eclipse, I was angry that the next book wasn't out already. I mean, seriously...what is up with making me wait? Don't they know I don't "do" waiting? Sigh.
This one was another mystery sort of book. A retired attorney, who is also a single dad, ends up having to come out of retirement to help out an old friend accused of rape and murder. Interesting storyline. It was ok.
Yes, Ashlee read the "devil books". My brother has not let me live it down. There was so much hype over these books and everyone just kept saying that you weren't supposed to read them or watch the movie....yada yada yada. I knew at some point, my book loving son would want to read them and I needed to be able to make an educated decision over whether or not I would allow it. So, I read the books. I'm an adult. If the books were really evil, I would figure it out pretty quickly and/or be able to look past the subtleties. It doesn't really get into the taboo stuff until the third book. But, honestly, whether or not the authors intentions were to portray man killing God or whatnot, I read it strictly as a fairytale. People can read whatever they want into pretty much anything these days. The characters live in a different reality, a different world actually. In their world, things are different. Their souls live outside their bodies. Anyway, it's all pretty much fictious and as long as it is read that way, there's not too much to worry about. It's kind of like reading into Narnia. Sure, one could say that the big lion is portraying Jesus, but really? He's just a lion. See my point? Anyway...the books were pretty decent up until the end of the third. I was seriously let down. Three books leading up to the big finale.....that wasn't so big. I was pretty disappointed. They weren't horrible, but not that great. Moving on....

Santa brought this book to my son this last year. Apparently Santa didn't pay too much attention because this book is way too old for an 8 year old. Sigh. Good times. Not old as in "too mature", just old as in....he wouldn't understand half the stuff or half the words. It's kind of like Harry Potter...made up words for a made up place. So, I stole it and read it. They said on the cover it was supposed to be like Harry Potter....not so much. The wizards don't really have powers. They summon demons to do their dirty work. I know, I know...here I go with demons and evil blah blah blah. They are not evil demons. They are creatures that are like nymphs and fairies and stuff. They are forced to do the will of the wizard that enslaves them. Got it? It was just ok. Perhaps a tween might like it.
Ah, yes. This fabulous book comes out in just a couple of days. I have been DYING for it to come out. I hope they don't run out of copies for me. Actually, I'll be in Boise this weekend, so I probably won't be able to even focus on getting a copy for myself until I get back next week. But then...I'm off to scavenge for one. This is book #4 in the Twilight Series. yes, the one I couldn't wait for, but was forced to because Stephenie hates me. Not that she really knows me, but if she did and she really loved me, she wouldn't make me wait. Right?
This one was wierd. But, apparently not wierd enough {or maybe just weird enough} for Hollywood. The movie version of it has already been made. It will be in theatres next October...meaning 2009. A teenage girl is raped and murdered {I know, again with the violence} and her murderer is never found. She goes up to heaven and is able to look down on her family and see what happens to them after her death. Like I said, weird.
This one was interesting. They made it into a "made for TV movie", which didn't do the book justice. They left out half the stuff. Sigh. A doctor ends up having to deliver his own baby one blizzardy night in the 1960s. Turns out, his wife was pregnant with twins. Though the first born, which was a boy, is perfectly healthy, the second born, a little girl, is born with downs syndrome. Back in that generation, people thought that this meant the baby would die soon after birth. The doctor, and new father, is afraid of what it would do to his wife to deal with that kind of loss, so he gives the baby to his personal nurse that is there to help him and tells her to take it to a home for people with this "disease". He tells his wife that the girl died. It destroys her. The nurse can't give the baby up and ends up raising her as her own. The book describes what life is like for both children and the parents afterwards. It wasn't my favorite book, but it was enlightening and interesting.
This book was almost the death of me. It was over 1000 pages long. Longest book {besides a text book} that I have ever read. Holy cow! Though the descriptions of the architectural elements were totally boring to me, the storyline was good. I was completely involved with the characters and their relationships with each other. It was interesting to see how they all affected each others lives.

I bought the book, Wicked, to take with me this weekend. Don't know if I'll have time to read, and really I should be reading my chapters for next weeks assignments instead, but I figured what the heck. This book is the same story as the musical, which I would love to go see. It is a twist on the whole 'Wizard of Oz' story, which is told from Dorothy's perspective. I am told this is the story of how the Wicked Witch became wicked. Sounds intriguing. I'll let you know!

What books have you guys read? I'm always looking for a new good one to add to my library.

Lady in Red....

2008-07-29T13:33:00.000-07:00

Now that song brings back some memories.....it was THE song at all the dances I went to as a teenager. Good times....

Anyway..I hurried and had my son take picture of me so I could show you the new 'do. I am officially a red head. For 25 more days. It's a wash out color job. Semi-permanent, you know? My little one NEEDED to be in the picture. I don't know if death would have been the result of my not allowing it, but honestly...we just got back from a 1 1/2 hour trip to Target and I am SO done with whiney children today. So, you get to have a picture of my adorable daughter as well. She makes the picture, don't you think? Her blank stare....yes...she's tired. It's nap time. Sigh.

Landon did a good job as photographer don't you think?

Vacations and Psychology....that's why!

2008-07-28T19:04:00.001-07:00

I'm just realizing it's been almost a week since I last posted. But, honestly guys...I got nothin'. My brain is on overload.

I'm getting ready for our big family vacation up to Boise this weekend. Four days of non-stop f-u-n, FUN! A train ride featuring a Wild West Shoot Out, a BBQ at my sister's house, Roaring Springs Water Park, Boondocks Family Fun Center, Jaysen's Day 'O Golf, Lots of shopping, and swimming in the pool at the hotel will be part of our big adventure. I think Jaysen has Sunday night's dinner lined up for us as well at his aunt and uncle's house. SWEET!

The OCD in me is making my lists, and checking them twice....to make sure I know exactly what should be packed and purchased and loaded in the car. I will still forget something...it never fails. But at least I will have tried. :0) The car needs an oil change and a good gutting so that we can refill it with more stuff for this trip. I haven't emptied it since the family reunion. It's scary in there. :0)

Beyond these preparations, I am attempting to get this week's school work done in record time along with part of next week's assignments done so that when we get back LATE Tuesday night I will not have to worry about posting Tuesday's assignment. These "fun" school preparations include writing the introduction and conclusion to my research paper on how Antidiscrimination Laws are a form of discrimination themselves. {Don't get me started...I could go on and on...} as well as learning all about the sexual development of humans and sexual psychology. Good times....If you have any questions as to that....please don't ask me. I've read it, I'm done with it...heaven knows I don't want to know one more thing about the male anatomy and how the "bits and pieces" work. SERIOUSLY. Guys are just gross! :0)

I was going to post about my new hair color. Yes, I did it again....from blonde to brown and now to my new shade {which is thankfully going to wash out in 26 more days}. It's a little scary, though everyone is being really nice and telling me how much they like it. I think they're lying. But I appreciate it. Because I have 26 more days of it. :0) Why haven't I posted about this? Because I haven't taken a picture yet. I really meant to do it yesterday when I was all cute for church, but I never got to it. So, you will all just have to imagine it until I get one taken. :0)

So, for now, you will have to deal with this long boring post about how I can't think of something for real to post about. OK? I'll work on something more create for later. Or maybe not. We'll see how I do with adolescent egocentrism. Several assignments on that one....so glad I don't have a teenager yet. Oh yeah....

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-23T18:36:00.000-07:00

Want S'more?

I almost forgot it was Wednesday....sigh.

For more on Wordless Wednesday, go here.

Is it getting hot in here?

2008-07-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

OK...a few of you asked about the guy in my all about me mosaic I posted yesterday. Honestly, I don't have a "real" celebrity crush. So, I had to think hard on this one. And the first hottie I could think of was this guy. His name is James Scott and he plays EJ Wells/Dimera on Days of Our Lives. I haven't been on the "up and up" with the show for a while, but between his lovely british accent and his puppy dog eyes for Sami....I can't help but love him too! :0)

He's awfully dreamy without a shirt on, but we won't get into that.....

So, now you now. Go google him or something! :0)