Cherish

Awhile back I wrote a post on why I wanted to be a photographer and what made all the time, effort, and stress worth it. One of my friends posted this lovely family and their sad story which over time has become super popular (the post I linked to was the first story I read). I cried (ok let's be honest I bawled) and read on, post after post. Every time I open this blasted blog I bawl hysterically.

There are plenty of thoughts that enter my head when I read about the loss of their little girl and how hard that would be but there is one that always comes to mind. I bet they cherish the pictures/videos of Preslee's more then anything. I love the one of her holding and smiling at her sweet baby girl. I can't imagine how much that one picture means to her.

I started to think if anything happened to my kids do I have enough of those sweet cherished pictures of me holding, laughing, and loving my sweet babies. The truth is I don't. I am always the one behind the camera, moms usually are. I hate to even think about anything ever happening but the truth is we just don't know, its something we can never have full control over.

Challenge on...put yourself in front of the camera. Don't wait to take pictures, make it happen even if you aren't looking super fantastic, they will be memories you and your family will cherish forever.

Here is my good friend Becky with some of her sweet kiddos

4 miles in flips

I'm so not a horn tooter, I never have been. For those of you that really know me, know that I'm super critical of myself and rarely allow myself pats or praise. I'm totally fine with it, its how I grew up and its really all I know. I've been wanting to post this story but super nervous its going to come off like I'm tootin. The truth is I have a terrible memory and I'm afraid I will some day forget this cherished memory so I figure I will just post it..for me..to remember.

I grew up in a family of seven kids, five girls two boys. I LOVED/LOVE having a large family (I was hoping I'd give my kids that same awesomeness, not happening kids...sorry!). I have one older brother and one younger brother. I was close with my younger brother because it was just us and he was my buddy in the house (even though he would regularly beat me up..oh the love). I wasn't so close with my older brother, 6 plus years difference makes it a little hard to keep close.

When I went to college I had the opportunity to work for the family company that he also happened to work for....long story short I ended up working really closely with my brother, he became my hero. I totally looked up to him.

(Sorry I know this is a long story of history but it lets you in on why this particular moment was/is so special to me).

I have a great respect for him, he is amazing, strong, dedicated, successful, extremely likable, and an all around incredible guy. I've always wanted to feel a strong bond between us but it never seems to come. One day a few weeks ago I felt a little of what I've always hoped for.

He's never been a runner but decided to hop on the crazy train of (been on less then a year now) running and has since completed 2 marathons and will complete another one this Saturday. Two Saturday's ago was the TOU marathon which normally runs right by our house(super sad it no longer does, silly neighbors). Earlier that morning I served up some killer Plyo Shawn T style. I slipped on my flips and wobbled over to the street where the runners would pass by.

My bro was supposed to run it but because of an injury he told everyone he couldn't do it. I had maybe been there 5 min cheering when I heard my man friend yelling his name! What!! He wasn't supposed to run. I usually put my running shoes on when I know someone that is going to run it so I can run beside them and give them a little boost on the last few miles. I quickly dropped my delicious shake and ran over to him. He was struggling and I could tell he needed some pick me up goodness. I only thought I would run with him for a block or so but he asked me to stay with him, so I did.

I ran the last 4 miles in flip flops. My feet were rubbed raw and covered in blisters but I wouldn't take that moment back for anything. I tried talking the whole way and pushed him to not stop. He got super frustrated with me but I just kept pushing. At that moment I can't explain how proud I was of him, how much more love I felt for him. When we rounded the last block chills covered my whole body and looked over at him with tears in my eyes, he rocked it! He pushed through serious pain and ended up shaving 15 min off his last marathon time.

He powered across the finish line, we hugged. It was an amazing moment even with blood dripping between my toes I wouldn't take it back and will cherish that time with him forever. For those brief moments I felt a love and bond that I've always hoped for. Thanks big brother, for needing me.

Homemakey

So I decided last Sunday I was going to try and be homemakey (its totally a word). I've been wanting to make little lady a skirt so I up and did it, no pattern just winged it! It has many struggles, but I did it and learned a lot along the way, such as....


Patterns are there to make life easy
Measuring might be helpful
Winging it from an existing skirt isn't always smart
Feeding elastic is extremely tedious (and totally the WORST part, anyone have an easier way?)
I have SO much to learn about sewing and being homemakey :)


I made it from vintage sheets I grew up sleeping on and and old t-shirt!


played with PS a lot...they are supposed to look golden and sunny like :) I love this light A LOT!

I'm totally up for making more...anyone want to come get your craft on with me?

Big bang

Well folks I pulled the trigger...took the plunge....went against my promise back in Junior high and...CUT BANGS!! I am rarely in front of the camera (I can't stand it, ha). I set the shot up and had man friend snap it up. Here's the big bang debut, and here they stay until my hair starts to grow. Maybe next year this time I might actually be able to pull them back. Yay for slow growing hair.

Clarifying the grease

For those of you that know me and occasionally get the chance to see me these days I'm positive your mind may begin to wander. You may begin to have thoughts such as following:

Wow she looks different, she sporting the "no make-up" look?

Her hair looks a little darker then I remember.

You could very well fry up some pancakes with forehead grease?


If any of you have those thoughts please see picture exhibit below.







So if I'm wearing the same clothes 2 days in a row, my hair is looking wet from multiple day old grease, or I'm actually out in public without any make-up on...now you know, so be forgiving and I give you full permission to lie! For those of you that get to see me AND my house, no words could express my sorrow for you.

Do I get brownie points for bravery in showing you my hard water stained door? Erk! She's a little stink but my goodness I sure do love this little lady! She loves to read and I LOVE THAT!! She would read books all day long, but they can't last longer then 5 seconds...ha!

My feelings don't fly

I didn't sleep much last night. Not because I had a fussy baby, or a class I had to teach in the morning, or even a run with a buddy. I didn't sleep much because I set a goal and I was so antsy that I wasn't going to "make" my goal a reality. Every week I tell myself that Wed morning I am going to get up at 4:30 am and get to the 5:30 am session. I've met it a few times but normally fall short. I try not to beat myself up too much considering I rarely get to bed before 1 am (I know its terrible). This week I was determined! So in my determination I woke up at 1 am...2am...sat straight up and gasped at 3 am...wrestled the night ninja at 4 am...and finally got up at 4:30 am. I met my goal and made it, and early to boot!

It was a smaller session which is quite rare, normally it is packed. There were only a handful of women there and I was so happy I was one of them. Unless you have been there I can't really describe the feelings that exist in that beautiful building. I normally don't share much about my religion, I don't want to sound preachy or silly but the truth is, its my life and I love it. I'd be lying if I said I was alert the whole time and didn't nod off from time to time (it was unusually warm in there today) I really try to be as focused as possible but since I was going on little to no sleep it was more of a struggle.

My favorite part is the end and the incredible room we get to ponder and feel the spirit in. I was reminded how grateful and blessed I truly am which brought a steady stream down my face. Then I was reminded of a few people in my life who lives are torn, broken, and need picking up. I can't help but wish I was better at picking up and helping them realize how much different their lives would be if they would just let him in.

At this point I was crnorting (crying so hard you shake and snort). A kind brave old man got up from his chair and sat down right next to me. Super sincere he asked if he could help me. I was taken back. I wasn't sure what to say to him so I said, "no I don't think so". He asked again, are you sure? Honestly I wanted to tell him what I was feeling and how sad I was for my friends, but I'm me, and my feelings don't fly, I hold them tight and deal with them alone. He left. I stayed. I probably should have tracked him down thanked him for caring and asked him for help, but I didn't. I know I won't get the opportunity to see him again, but I hope he knows how much I appreciate his kindness. I will never forget it. Maybe next time I be brave like him to someone else, or maybe even let my feelings fly.

I am so glad I made it. I am super grateful I live so close. I am also grateful for nap times and school because I'm nodding as we speak...nappy time for me!

SHOES!!!

So I might have a slight shoe obsession! I am totally pushing that shoe obsession on the little lady but I can't help it! She so does not need both of these, but how could I decide..they are so cute! Any help?

Enjoy every morsel

clearly not getting what she needs
Hey where did they all go?
Yum I have all I need, right here!
Eating off the grass just isn't fast enough!
These pics are super old but I didn't have any lovely pics of me cramming my face full of food or I would have posted it.

Remember the old saying, "Enjoy every morsel of food" or wait maybe it was "Chew at least 15 times with every bite" nah it was "Lose weight by slowing down, enjoying every morsel, and chew 15 bites with each scoop". Okay fine I am making it all up, but I know there is somewhere out there that says eating slow and enjoying your food is so much better for you.

I used to consider myself a easy going moderate to slow eater. I would have to admit that now I am a speed that food might just run away kind of eater. This of course is not by choice, I feel I have adapted to the need to speed eat. Let me explain...

a. When you first have a kid you speed up the eating process because, let's be honest you become a milk factory and as soon as you are finally finished feeding its time to start it all over again.

b. Then the kid is big enough to eat solid foods (yay, relief for the jugs) and every bite takes an extremely long time, including the time you spend scooping up everything that keeps falling out. Plus you never want to chance eating at the same time for fear of accidentally scooping the wrong goods into your mouth (although baby food peaches are delicious). By the time you are done with the babe you just want to get the food thing over with.

c. The kid is big enough to feed himself and you fall into the "danger zone". I can't even count how many times chunks of food have pelted me in the face, or that sweet slobbery chunk that just landed in your perfectly slobber free plate. Speed eating becomes a necessity.

d. Your food becomes his food. You always want what you can't have and your food looks SO much better then the same food they have. One bite for you one for him. It becomes quite the battle on who can finish the bite first.

e. The house won't clean itself. Let's be honest, who has the time to really sit down and enjoy their food? You are a mom, there are things to be done and taking the time to fix and actually enjoy the meal is out of the question. I am lucky to get a meal, double lucky if its warm when its supposed to be warm.

Meal time is always an adventure, and quite honestly I love it. Although they are fast they have also been some of the best moments with my kids. I just know I will never end up on an infomercial for losing weight by enjoying every morsel and taking 15 bites with each scoop.

Maybe we should just start eating out....HA! more on this later...

Black eye beauty

peek-a-boo

airplane

doggy
stylist
The second day of our sweet black eyed beauty. She is getting quite impossible to take pics of because she wants to move and groove. My favorite pics are the ones she isn't posing and being her sweet self full of curiosity and spunk. These pics are exactly how I want to remember her and her sweet little personality.

I can't win I finally get the image size thing down and now they look grainy...Kristin if you are reading this do you normally do 72dpi for web? Any help would be appreciated since they are for sure not grainy in full size.

Puddles of happiness

she is diving for me trying to look at her pic...its blurry but I love it!
she is loving her tongue lately

Her poor eye and sweet cheese beneath the binks
Since my pics don't make the cut to end up on V-Ville I will post them here...for me :)

(below was my post for V-Ville which explains the title and pics:))
I have to admit I was filled with glee when I woke to the sound of rain and thunder. I love the rain, so do the little ones. We spent most of the morning snuggling, playing, and laughing in our bed. Then as I was attempting to take a 1/2 decent picture of the little lady and her beat up eye I decided nothing brings happiness more then splashing in puddles of rain, so out we went and happiness we did.


I can't stand the pics posting here at blogger...or maybe it is just user error but it blows!

Morning snuggs

not a sleeping pic but one I love. The lil man leading the lil lady and telling her all about where he is taking her...so cute!


I absolutely don't advocate co-sleeping. I'll definitely admit when my babies were newborn babies there were many nights of me totally passed out with babies hook straight up to my once plump milk sacks. I know it wasn't the smartest or brightest idea but man, I was bushed.

My man friend and I decided before we even had kids that kids sleeping in our bed was a no deal kind of set up. I'm glad we set the ground rules even though they have been broken more times then I'd like to count. Broken not because we wanted to pull the little guy in or even that he woke up crying and we didn't want to lose sleep. We have what we like to call a sleep ninja. He sneaks into our bed and we don't find out until the morning of, or we end up with swift swipe of his ninja feet to face style goodness. We always ask the ninja why he came in and he always warms the cochleas of our heart with some sweet excuse as to why he needed to come snuggle.

Back on the point of this post. This morning was a super fantastic morning. I woke up to the sound of rain and thunder (something about rain, I love it! Fresh, clean, new beginning) my little man asleep with his arm wrapped gently around my neck. Lil sis was up and talking so I brought her in and we made a lil sis snuggle sand which. We snuggled, laughed and played. I am hard pressed to find something more fantastic then that.

Morning snuggle sessions are truly the best! Is it just me or is there something about the bed that makes kids come alive.

Beyond

I'm not sure if there really is such a thing as beyond sad but I know I am feeling like there is. I was hoping there would be some special rule of the universe that you aren't allowed any bad news when your traveling down the crimson highway, but alas my hope was crushed yesterday. To top it all off it was crushed in front of other people, meaning my stab wound just got twisted, grinded, and much much deeper.

After months of late nights, exhausted legs, cursing cars(the movie), and more stress then you can imagine the results are in. I didn't pass my RPM assessment. For all the plethora of readers that hit up my fantastic blog, remember this? The results were, you need some work before you can become a certified instructor. I'm crushed, bummed, and beyond sad. I need to improve on what they said and get it passed off from my GGX, then I can officially be an RPM instructor.

Last night I wallowed in my sorrow, hit up Cafe Rio and gorged myself on cherry nips, while watching the movie Losers (wow that's fitting). This morning I woke my beyond sad booty up and practiced, AGAIN.

Sorry I was really hoping to keep my next few posts on the more positive side, but then life happened.

Carpet where?

Growing up we had a carpeted kitchen. Not the sweet shag kind, that would be brutal! It was a flat weaved kind that pretty much doubled as a massive rug. It had every color of the rainbow and then some, total sweetness. All growing up I thought who on earth would ever, ever put carpet in a kitchen. Even after I've moved on with my life and house shopped myself whenever we would see a house with carpeted kitchen I would turn my nose up in disgust thinking, who on earth would ever want carpet in a kitchen?

I am lucky enough to have a home with lovely wood floors throughout my kitchen and down my hall. This morning at 10:00am as I was sweeping my floor for the second time in one day I had a shocking thought. I honestly said to myself, " having carpet in a kitchen might be nice" eek! I'm not sure what it is about sweeping but vacuuming just seems SO much easier. Maybe its because it does all the work for you, or that I can count it as calorie burning (for real, its on there for physical activity) but it just doesn't seem as brutal as taking the broom out AGAIN.

If we ever build again (not likely) I would actually entertain the thought of possibly putting carpet in the kitchen. I'm sure we will be so advanced by then if I ever spilled liquid it would either clean itself or I could just cut out the wet spot, spray it with the hose, bring it back in and have it mend itself...oh baby! Until then the sweeping will continue...woot woot!

Note to self: having a one year old that likes to LAUNCH her food everywhere doesn't help my sweeping revolt. Babies are fantastic!

Sometimes I wonder?

what happened to this sweet little guy? Ha he learned to talk :)

Sometimes I wonder? Quite honestly wondering might not be the healthiest thing, for me that is. Seems as if wondering brings more of a negative following then a positive one. I absolutely dream of the day when I can call myself a positive Polly but the truth is I'm more of a negative Nelly...sad but true!

I'm sure if we had a time square like in the olden days where the bad people would stand in the middle and the townsfolk would have rocks to throw at you, or you would wear that sweet scarlet letter telling everyone what a horrible person you are...I would fit that for what I'm about to say! But hey I'm all about being honest.

Sometimes in many moments during some days I wonder exactly why am I a mother? I know, I know slap on my scarlet letter!

Its not that I don't absolutely LOVE being a mother its more when I hear at least 15 times a day what a "meanie" "rudie" "worstis" I am I begin to wonder why exactly am I a mother? Little dude is a good kid but man he is going through a tough spout right now. Anything I do that doesn't follow his every wish I turn into the "worstis, meaniest, rudest mama ever" I try not to let a 5 year old rub on me but let's be honest, it does.

In my defense I've started telling him to go find another sweet mama that let's him do whatever he wants and also let's him eat candy all day every day, oh and beat on his helpless sister. One of these days he might just take me up on it. I'll admit its not the best response but man until they start coming with personal "how to do" manuals I'm at a loss.

I am now trying the tactical approach of "use your words". It seems to be working so far but it makes me feel like a mom that's gone to loon town because she is so overwhelmed with her life, which I'm not. But honestly the fake smile and happy upbeat voice I use when saying "use your words little man and let's try not using the word meanie, rudie, or worsetest" I absolutely know I look the part.

Kids are awesome and I really love being a mom, I sure hope I'm not the only one that feels this way from time to time. Here's hoping that using our words works for everyone.

Sympathizless

Its a new word I made up to describe myself. I hate to admit it but this is how I came up with it!

I'm not sure what it is about men being sick but my man friend as much as I love him is painfully D R A M A T I C when he gets sick. The same SMALL cough the baby had turns into BRUTAL my lungs could collapse at any moment cough. The SMALL stuffy nose the little man had is backed up deeper then the Hoover Dam and he could need breathing treatments at any moment. Its true people, he doesn't say it but I know he thinks...sure hope she has the phone handy in case she needs to dial 911.

This is where I come in and my new word sympathizless. I know this is when I should be loving, holding, and coddling my sweet man friend but I am polar opposite. Every cough, every moan (yes there are constant moans) makes me cringe. The dramatics of it all is just to much, I have no sympathy...eek!

Maybe its because when the lady friend of the house gets sick the show must go on. Just because I am sick doesn't mean the house doesn't need cleaning, dishes need washing, dinner needs making, kids need constant care. My life doesn't stop because I'm sick, just gets slightly more uncomfortable.

Or maybe its because I was number 6 out of 7 kids and if I was sick my parents probably didn't even know or if they did they didn't have time to dote on me so I learned to buck it up! I'm not sure what it is exactly that's made me this way but I am terrible! I would much rather deal with a sick child any day then a sick husband.

You guessed it...man friend is sick...oh and meanest wife of the year just called and I won!

I love you sweet man friend...please get better SOON!!!

In a nut

I am shocked its already July....really? Its amazing how fast time really does fly. My life has been in serious jet mode and I haven't taken the time to write it down...so a few thoughts and my life in a small nut!

The kids are growing up way too fast! Little lady is already over a year and walking/wobbling all over the place. She is starting to talk and says hot (sounds like hhhhhhhaaaaaa, with plenty of throat involved) what's that (blending into a whooshing noise) and of course Dada. Apparently the word mama is pretty much chop liver to her. She has some serious spice and she for sure makes it a spicefest around our house but we are loving her little personality.

Little man is a dang good kid, I honestly couldn't ask for more. He just turned 5! He is super smart, dang cute, and makes us laugh everyday (I'm not partial at all though). He has his moments as every kid does but is a huge help and a real treat to be around. At the moment he is into racing cars off the lounge chair on the deck, playing with friends every moment of the day (playing with mama is already...not cool and not fun...why do kids have to grow up?), and wants to be outside every second of everyday.

As cheesy as this sounds my man friend just keeps getting better and better! Everyday I get to remind myself that he really is the best hub/papa I could ever ask for. He is simply amazing and I am so lucky to have him.

Its official! I have my very own RPM class and I LOVE IT!!! At first I thought it will be nice to get my workout in and get paid (if you can call it that...ha!) but now it has nothing to do with the workout or the money, I'm in love with the people. The opportunity to be a part of their life and hopefully helping them change, for the better! It is so amazing. Its helped me realize I straight up love people, sorry but I do! I am extremely grateful for that quality I've been blessed with.

I am taking pictures like a mad women and I love it. I still get super frustrated with myself because I wanted to be an amazing photographer...yesterday! I finally figured out why I love to take pictures and why I've always wanted to be a photographer. I am the 6th child out of 7, yikers that is a ton of kids...I am dying with 2. Needless to say I don't have very many pictures of me.

I'm not going to lie it makes me really sad and I can't tell you how much I would cherish having pics of when I was little/growing up chilling with my mom/dad/siblings/favorite toys etc. I want to be a part of those cherish memories for that family and give them something they will love and cherish for many years to come. I love being a photographer and I hope I will just keep getting better and better.

My house is a mess, now and pretty much always.

I'm still staying up way too late and waking up way too early.

I decided I don't like having birthday's on same days...too much pressure!

I still have NO will power when it comes to treats

Last but not least...I am so in love with summer!

I'm sure there is plenty I am leaving out but I can't seem to keep my eyeballs open any longer.

Out...

Memorial mix

Its been a long time, super long time. Life is busy, and just gets busier. Good that my life is ever changing and spicy, not so good for the poor little blog...moving on!

I'm not sure where the tradition of going to visit ALL graves came about but I have mixed feelings about it. I've always thought memorial day is a day to remember the ones who have fought and died for our freedoms, like these small little reminders below. Deep down I wish I was only visiting those graves and not ALL graves.

This post is partially a salute to all the men, women, and families that have given up everything so I could be free and partially the sadness at the thought of visiting my sweet little Lucas. I'm selfish what can I say. My heart breaks at the thought of going there. I think about the little guy all the time. I think about how old he would be what he would be doing and the happiness and joy I know he would be bringing to our family. I get the "realness" that he's not here, but there is something about going to his grave that makes it all "too real". When I'm there I just want to scoop him up and hold him, tell him that I love him and wish he was here. I want him to know I haven't forgotten about him even when life gets crazy and it seems like I have.

This weekend I will have a swirl of emotions, most of them being sad. I know I will see him one day and that helps, but I miss him and wish he was here.

It is the
VETERAN,
not the preacher,
who has given us freedom of religion.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the campus organizer,
who has given us freedom to assemble.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the politician,
Who has given us the right to vote.

It is the
VETERAN who
salutes the Flag.

Thank you to the men, women, and families that have given everything so that my family and I have the freedoms we do!

Mother's Day goodness

85 year old grandma in junior high

No this post isn't an amazing story of how an old grandma finally graduates from junior high, although that would be pretty amazing and redonkulous (yes it is a word) because junior high clearly doesn't matter.

Back to the point, this post is something totally not "kosher" to talk about but since its just you and me Jamie :) you've heard it all from me so why not?

The girls....oh the girls...they've deflated and if I had enough skin they would be rubbing my upper thigh! I've stopped nursing and its become an unusually sad sight to see. I honestly look like an 85 year old back in junior high (yay for title tie in). I've tried to be okay with super small girls and normally its just life BUT do they have to be unusually SMALL and SAGGY...come on!!

Its embarrassing really embarrassing. I think its "part" of what makes you a woman, MF disagrees of course but I think he's just trying to make me feel better. I do know that I am not "one" of those girls that is fine with indented nips that can't indent because they are too busy rubbing your belly button. Speaking of belly, guess mines holding out for the next munchkin to nestle in.

So here I sit belly hanging over my pants, girls nestling down in China town. Heaven help the person that has to see me naked, sorry MF.

Here's to hoping they make training bras that will fit my ever expanding rib cage.

oh my this is hilarious!! I might just have to order myself up some of these bad boys.

http://videosift.com/video/Sagging-Boobies-Lift-Em-Up-With-Liftys

What's in a name

can't post without a pic...isn't she so dang cute! this was an awesome session!!
So for all my plethora of readers out there I need your opinions, please!

I'm moving forward with this photo thing and I can't for the life of me figure out a blasted name. I know most people use their name since they are the "artist" but let's be honest my name is super long and people start to fall asleep after the Catherine (thank heavens I married a Vinton and not a Christenanson(I promise its a name)). So listed below are a few of the names I am thinking of.

Honest opinions please I promise you won't hurt my feelings! (just know it will have photography at the end...duh)

MCPhoto (MCphotography is already taken...go figure)
MCVinton
Mae Mae (what the kids call me when they can't say the whole dang thing)
MaeVin


More cutesy cheesy below
Salty lemon
MC Zest
Zesty
Sassafrass
Saucey (because I'm creamy)

There you have it! All the "good" ones are already gobbled up. Oh and if you have a super fantastic name pop up in your head spread the love ladies, I'd love to hear it.

Royal pain!

So a few months ago I got a call asking me to volunteer my time and head up the River Heights Royalty. In my mind I thought it would be fun, right? I didn't have very much notice and hardly any guidelines so I decided to just go for it and try to make it an awesome experience for the girls and hopefully get a "huge" turn out.

I decided to do a health theme because I am passionate about it and feel its super important for young kids to learn, know, and do. With a low budget I pitched for people to volunteer their time for this great cause. So with gusto I went to town....

I asked an amazing instructor from Golds to teach them a little fun hip hop dance (to show them exercise can be fun) and talk about how important it is to remain active. Then I scheduled a dinner at Kitchen kneads to show the girls how to cook healthy meals and the importance of eating healthy. Last but not least I arranged with CASPA to do a scavenger hunt helping families of violence. Super fun, right?

Sent out letters to about 20 girls listing all these fun and exciting things to do plus the joy of course of answering a few questions for a few lovely people and standing on a float for 17 (fine 13...17 sounds more dramatic) plus parades waving the "wave". Oh and did I mention they get a whooping 70 bucks (queen gets 100) to put towards school (should take um far, I know). I didn't think they were getting much so that's why I put together all these great activities. I'm sure you can see where this is going.

Drum roll please...ONE! only one girl sent in her application. So begins the calling and begging until I decided I felt like I was forcing girls into doing something they don't want to. A month after I asked for them another girl sent in her application...man! I don't think its worth it to have 2 girls, am I wrong?

I'm sad and frustrated and can clearly see I don't understand Junior aged girls at all and I think RH wants their Tamber back.

Needless to say Royalty is NOT my thing and I won't be volunteering myself next year :).

Sneaky Sneaky

if only I looked this fashonista!

Today I discovered one more way I have a little of my mom in me...how could I be so lucky!

When I was younger I always remember my mom sneaking into the cupboard, rustling of a wrapper, slowly sliding her face into the cupboard emerging with the look of I've got a secret and jaw moving ever so slowly. When I was little little I didn't get it, when I got older I would sneak into the cupboard to find out just what exactly she was sneaking. Rare occasions I would actually find it, the other times I would spend my time emptying the whole cupboard only to find bitter sweet chocolate and rock hard raisins...YUCK! (I always wondered if she had some secret cupboard hiding the goods...back of course when I had a fun kid imagination..now I'm old and WAY too logical)

Today I finally realized why my mom did that (do you blame her honestly...7 kids I would be downing the little moments of heaven number 1 for my sanity, number 2 because if I didn't eat them all my kids would). She needed a little moment of heaven and she found it through a special little treat, just for her.

Today I found myself distracting the little man while I ever so slyly snuck a treat. My treat of course is never the sweet smooth delight of chocolate (not that I would know since I don't like it) its the fruit snacks I supposedly bought after my little man begged me to get them...ha I fooled him, right?

Goes a little like this....
What? you want Gushers....oooh they are more expensive! (pause) But since you've been such a good guy grab 5 boxes, okay fine let's make it an even 6.
"Wow that's a lot mama"
Its for food storage little guy (let's be honest, not one of those 6 boxes will ever see the inside of my food storage let alone the next week)

Moral of this post is:

1. I get why my mom had "special things" just for her, even though back then I thought it was so "MEAN"

2. I think all mamas need a little moment of heaven throughout the day.

3. Reading back this post I look like a sneaky liar...sweet I rock! (Okay I really am not that bad, I have the sweetest intentions...food storage is a good idea I just eat it before it can ever make it down there:)

*I think the little man might be on to me because when he asks for a fruit snack and I say...oh no they're all gone...tears well in his eyes and he says MAMA you ate them all... TOTALLY BUSTED!

kids are superfantastic

We all know kids are fantastic but this morning I realized kids are more then just fantastic, they are super fantastic.

The last few weeks, okay really March has been a rough month for me. I piled my plate WAY to high and then some pretty craptastic things have happened to me making it all the worse. When I woke up this morning at 7:00am I was grumpy right off the bat. I set my alarm for 5am so I could make the 5:30 session and well we know how that turned out. I was mad at myself and super sad I didn't get the chance to feel some peace in this life of turmoil(SIDE NOTE: this sounds super dramatic, its really not that bad I'm just a stress mania). Oh there's more...I had a photo class that I've been going to (putting stress on myself and my mf) that was looking more and more like I wasn't going to be able to make it (money down the drain, YUCK). I tried to be as happy as I could but I am a terrible actress..(note to self, never persue acting, although at some point I secretly wanted to be on Days of our Lives).

I rushed MF and lil man out the door and turned back into the house feeling totally depleated (its only 8:30am, yikes). Then I hear the door open and in walks my lil man with tears in his eyes. I instantly scoop him up and he tearfully explains that he didn't get to tell me he loved me and give me a hug and kiss. By this time my tears are flowing! That's what its all about, that's why kids are super fantastic. At that moment nothing else mattered. We gave tons of hugs and kisses and he was on his way again.

Thanks lil man, you have no idea how much that small moment meant to me today. I sure do love you and think you are SUPER FANTASTIC!!

Day with Yan

Isn't she a beaut!
Oh baby!! My day with Yan is quickly approaching 2 days to be exact. I am super excited and super nervous. She is quite simply amazing and I am so happy she is willing to mentor newbies like me. I want to be the best so I figure why not mentor with what I think is the best. There are plenty of photographers that are good but there is something about her pics. They are striking, different, and rockin clear.

I don't want to "just" take pictures. I want to capture memories, moments, personalities, and stories. I have no doubt Yan (and a booty load of work) can get me there. It's so exciting to be pursing something I love!! I can't thank my MF for supporting, loving, and pushing me to make this happen. Pics and thoughts from my day with her are sure to come.

WOO WOO!!

I forgot

Lil sis love hate with the grass..so fitting!
So here's the truth, I forgot. For a brief (okay maybe several days) moment I forgot I had this silly blog. I can't decide my opinion on the whole blog thing. On one hand I think they are awesome on the other I think they aren't so awesome. I started this blog just for me thinking it could be my journal, my opinion, my life. Then the crazy idea of comments came in. I tried to pretend I didn't need comments and that the blog was just for me, but then I started to get some and it was over.

Its silly but the comments made me feel loved and who doesn't want that? So I'm starting a new (again) and trying to get back to just writing my life and not checking every 5 min after a post to see if I had any comments (Thanks to those for always sending the comment love, you know who you are).

On a lighter not so wallowing in self pity note I'm following my dreams! WOO WOO! I'm pushing forward with photography and I'm going to make it happen, and one day be an amazing photographer. I dove head first into fitness and will hopefully be teaching some rockin classes someday. Needless to say I'm stoked, beyond words.

For all those lovely people who are helping me learn the art of taking a fantastic picture, one day I will take pictures for them that will knock socks off. Not sure who came up with that saying, as if socks can really be knocked off...anyway! I hope for Ashley that Drake isn't 16 and I take more pooptastic pics of all her other kids :). Poor Ashley, sure hope she sticks with me. Or for Liz she might actually get her pics and I might snap some beauties of her sweet little Jace while he's still little. Or Margie...eek poor Margie. Okay honestly my list could go for quite sometime, sorry friends I promise one day you'll be happy you stuck with me.

MF is hoping I'll be his sugar daddy(with my new found dream catching) and I'm hoping he'll be mine...we might be in trouble. Life is super busy, but super super awesome.

Till next time...go ride or snap..MIH

RPM

Well folks I have a new hero, and a new obsession. My new hero is the Les Mills and my new obsession is RPM. I was lucky enough to attend a training here in Logan. It was an intense 2 day course that trained you how to kick peoples trash on the bike, hello heaven nice to meet you! I love getting my trash kicked and now I get to help give that pleasure to others. Doesn't it sound AWESOME? I've never taught a fitness class but I have serious motivation and passion for booty kickin goodness and the opportunity to change people's life.

I'm still shocked I passed the course since everything was new to me, but I did it! I do have to say Les Mills doesn't mess around. They are serious and you have to be the best of the best in order to become a Les Mills instructor. I have to learn all their Choreography 100% and send a video of myself as well as team teach 4 times before I can be on my own. Oh and did I mention that they put out a new release every 4 weeks where I have to learn a new one all over again..eek! I love that they are so serious and intense, makes me realize I joined the right party!

So for anyone who wants to burn some serious calories, rock out to some kickin booty music, and sweat buckets please join me (well not until April, that's our huge kick off!) at Gold's gym...yes you are looking at the newest Gold's gym employee...WOOT WOO!!!

A small plug for my new place of employment, It ROCKS! The month of March promotion is sign up for a buck and only $28.95 a month.

If you end up joining put my name down so they can see I was worth hiring...hee hee!!

Today I asked for paper

Today at the store (okay fine 2 days ago today)I finally said paper please. Every time the sweet Macey's worker asks me if I would like paper or plastic there is always a moment of hesitation before the word plastic rolls off my tongue. I know deep down I should be asking for paper or buying those "save the planet" bags and bringing those to the store, but I'm a slave. I have become a slave of ease, convenience, and sheer laziness.

I have kids, trying to handle kids and a "paper" bag with no handles just seems crazy. I can barely remember the list let alone the 10 "save the planet" bags I'd need to carry all of the groceries. I have so many plastic bags at home but they sure are nice to pack lunches, super stinky diapers, or soiled underoos.

Today (fine Thursday) all that changed, I finally acted on that moment of hesitation all because of a picture. I love photography, always have. I love that capturing a moment tells a lifetime of stories. This man is amazing, I love his work, and today he changed a part of my life by capturing a moment in someones life.

Here is his goodness for your viewing pleasure: Will it change you?

Smokey-mountain-does-what-we-see-change-us

All of his pics:
Smokey-mountain

The kids are so happy, with so little. What an example they are to me and all of us. I can't wait until I get the chance to travel the world and tell the stories through the images I capture.

Sobering

I even caught one of the graves being visited,so sad



This is a long overdue post. I almost didn't post it since it was back in January on our wild and crazy trip to Cali. I just kept thinking about the images I captured and the feelings I felt as we humbly drove through and decided it was a post worth posting.

I'm sure there are plenty of these places across the country but this is the first one I've seen where the white cold stones lined hill after hill after hill. I was taken back at how many there where. I know I shouldn't be, people are dying everyday for my/our/their freedom. I know I put the blinders and earmuffs on trying to pretend war isn't happening and people aren't losing their life for little ole me but the truth is, it is!

I am so grateful for my freedom. I am so grateful for the men and women who give their lives for my freedom. I am grateful for their families that sacrifice love ones to this amazing cause. This was a sobering and truly eye opening drive for me.

Is that a CHEVY??

Sneak peek at my super fun shoot today!! WOOT WOOT

What a stud!
ha ha love this!! don't you love my new v-day chair? thanks sweets!
Can we say Abercrombie?

Super cute!
Might as well take advantage of that sweet Chevy in my back yard that I just found out says...and I quote "takes a stud to build a house" freakin hilarious!! Thanks neighbor!


I really, really, really need to learn Photoshop! No worries its on my list of "to do's" along with running a pageant that I have no idea how to do..woot woo!

DA BANGS

pretty sure I could never get mine that high...but I wouldn't doubt I came pretty close...woot!


So I've really been slacking in blog world lately..something about being a busy mom of two..or it could be the fact that I spend too much time reading everyone else's blogs....or it could also be I'm having too much fun hiding behind my camera weeeee...anyway back to the point of this post.

BANGS!!! To be or not to be????

So I've had an itchin' to get me some girlie bang goodness(why does that sound..uh..um..okee!). I've had it for quite sometime. The only problem is way back in my Junior high days of poofy bangs and frizzed out hair I made a promise to NEVER EVER EVER cut bangs again...kind of like my other promise to NEVER perm my hair again!! I know can you believe I used to perm my frizzy fro head? No worries I won't be breaking that promise..EVER...but the bangs one....maybe?

I've heard people with my large face shape should NOT get bangs...but I see it on people and they look so dang cute. It draws out the eyes..and gives some seriously cute style. So...what's a girl to do? I don't want to draw attention and make larger my already large face. Should I just gaze at all the lovely ladies and know its "just not for me". Help me my lovely fashonistas!!

Bangs...should I take the plunge?
I realize I look nothing like these ladies but I like the bangs...don't they look lovely?