Just me

Hands

2011-10-12T10:08:00.000-07:00

Love this little guys hands and giggle as he knows his mom is about to become the tickle monster! Can't wait until my website is live...almost there!!

I know I'll miss this.....

2011-05-23T23:41:00.000-07:00

This is so her...hair in face always ripping her bows out!!

The imperfect ones become my favorite...her hiding underneath the desk

You can almost feel the sweet tenderness this little lady has..love this pic! She has the most loving heart and growing up way too fast!

Eat her UP!!

2011-05-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

Perfect

2011-05-19T16:41:00.001-07:00

Is she not picture perfect!! My sweet little lady is all grown up

Officially melted

2011-05-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

Melting my heart!

2011-05-13T10:27:00.001-07:00

Edit....Edit....Edit

2011-02-10T13:21:00.000-08:00

I so want to get in a blasted fight with Photoshop! One day I hope to fall in love with editing like I have fallen in love with Photography. Here are some new fun pics...I'll have more of the full sessions on my space over at V-Ville...one day :).

this is my own version of b/w/sepia...its a little different but I like it!

This is my(no she's not really MINE...but she sure does love me) sweet little Amelia.

I'm not a plastic baby editor...is that bad? Want the little tikes to look like they do and not fake. Its an opinion...what's yours?

Where's my red button?

2011-02-04T08:36:00.000-08:00

I wrote this post for our other site http://howdoigetfit.com/ but its rare for me to post so figured I spread the love around to my sweet little blog here.

We all know it… the ever so popular red “Easy” button. Story goes like this: something in life comes up that’s hard, the red “easy” red button appears, you press it and the problem fixes itself (Staples, you clever little devil).

I think at some point in our lives (in my case many points) we all wish we had our own red button to push when it comes to reaching our fitness goals. Like this morning at 5am when my alarm was going off and it was time to get up, “Dig Deep” and show up Insanity style. I fished around hoping my red button would show up, my workout would be done and the new skinnier/buffer me would pop up dressed, beautified and ready to face the day. Instead, my button didn’t show up, I slept in until 8:30 (Man-Friend… bless his sweet little heart) and end up bringing the Insanity much later than originally planned.

I hear a lot of people making comments like “I’d love to look like that BUT…” or Insanity and/or P90X is way too hard, I couldn’t do that…” It seems as if they are searching for their own red button to show up and out pops the skinnier/buffer looking person. I’m always asked how I stay fit and achieved the results I have and honestly… it’s HARD and I work at it EVERY DAY!! There is no easy button in life and that includes a life of skinny/buffy goodness.

Ever notice that the greatest rewards in life are the ones we work HARD for? Relationships: Super rewarding and needs work everyday. Raising children: super rewarding (super HARD) and needs work every second! A fit, healthier you: Extremely rewarding and requires hard work everyday.

It’s easy to be fat, it’s easy to eat like crap and it’s easy to not workout. It’s okay to have red button moments but have them and move on. In my case, going Insane much later today sucked… but I had my red button moment at 5am, got over it, brought it later and feel super accomplished.

You can do the same!

Laugh a little

2011-01-26T10:19:00.000-08:00

I think we are so blessed to have children in this world for so many reasons but today my little man reminded me of two very important ones. First simple moments and simple things are the BEST things in life. Some of my very favorite moments are the simple ones with my kids. With my little man its when sassy pants is taking a nap or sleeping in and we just talk, about everything. With my sassy lady its the sweet little snuggle we have before she goes to sleep or takes a nap. Or when we all snuggle up and read books.

This morning little lady was sleeping in so little man just talked and laughed over such simple things. He was talking about a cartoon he watched at school, he laughed and laughed which made me laugh. Kids remind us to laugh more, I wish I laughed as much as my little ones do.

New goal be more like my little man...enjoy the simple things and LAUGH A LOT!!

Tuckered ballerina

2011-01-23T22:12:00.001-08:00

Babies...its what I've been up to...more coming..hopefully!

sun

2011-01-17T11:20:00.000-08:00

Its rare in CV Dec-Feb so I ceased the moment.

Cherish

2010-11-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2010-09-29T11:36:00.001-07:00

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

2010-09-24T12:17:00.000-07:00

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

2010-09-19T22:08:00.000-07:00

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

2010-09-16T20:45:00.000-07:00

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

2010-09-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

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!!!

2010-08-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-25T21:54:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-19T11:57:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-08-04T12:47:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-08-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

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

2010-07-11T21:59:00.000-07:00

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

2010-07-08T23:02:00.000-07:00

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

2010-05-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

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

2010-04-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

85 year old grandma in junior high

2010-04-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

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

2010-04-16T16:18:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-04-09T13:32:00.000-07:00

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

2010-03-31T22:54:00.000-07:00

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

2010-03-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2010-03-19T14:01:00.000-07:00

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

2010-03-16T09:04:00.000-07:00

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

2010-03-07T15:59:00.000-08:00

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

2010-03-06T10:36:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-26T17:31:00.000-08:00

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??

2010-02-17T22:21:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-17T21:30:00.000-08:00

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?

Wanna be

2010-02-01T10:05:00.000-08:00

I'm an organizer wanna be. I love watching all the shows on organizing. I day dream about every drawer, every noodle, every toy, and every hair product in a neatly organized container. Making my whole house a box of order and neatness. Then of course I head back down the path of reality and remember my house is more like a "SOG"(shove of glory) house. I am the master of little something we like to call "SNOL" or shove now organize later. I used to think I was a super organizer and it wasn't until I had kids that I start to be a SNOL but let's be honest I can't keep blaming kids for all my pitfalls....so I'm not an organizer BUT I want to be and I'm all about working to make myself better.

Since my little lady decided she only wanted a 30 min nap I ended up doing this instead of jumping on the treadmill. Treadmill & my little trouble maker would be a disaster. Be gentle this is super embarrassing letting everyone see this...eek!

Before

After

What in the world was I thinking?

I like to hang on to things even when there is barely a drop left. Its crazy, some things I can easily chuck and others I think I might just use it ONE day(I had face cleaner from college...yikes). I'm sure there is some sort of deeper meaning to it all but I'm okay not knowing what it is. I'm learning (i.e.realizing) a lot about myself doing this blog thing....thanks for coming along for the ride...I sure do love it!

Keeping it real

2010-01-25T23:55:00.000-08:00

I'm a little frustrated right now! I promise I'm not bi-polar even though it seems like I am. I'm just keeping it real.

I wish I was perfect and I wish everything I did in life I did perfectly.

I wish I was the perfect wife.
I wish I was the perfect mom.
I wish I was the perfect friend.
I wish I was the perfect daughter.
I wish my house was perfect.
I wish my body was perfect.
I wish my face was perfect.
I wish my hair was perfect.
I wish I sewed perfect.
I wish every picture was a perfect picture.

I wish I was perfect and I wish everything I did in life I did perfectly.

Nothing in my life ever came easy to me but yet I've always demanded perfection. I ended up walking away from so many things. I'm a total nerd and say way too much...1 am and cookie dough is not the brightest idea.

What exactly is perfect and why do I keep comparing myself to it? Anyone know what perfect is? Who knows...but I sure get super frustrated trying to live up to this expectation that I'm not sure what it even is. I'm starting to tyumble (mumble but the typing version) I better hit the sack pronto!

Here's a shout out to all those blogs that keep it real! Hands down those are the best blog posts around..thanks ladies for giving me the courage to "keep it real" and not try to be what I'm not....perfect!

What I learned....

2010-01-25T08:16:00.000-08:00

I thought about doing a dead elephant but that is so sad...so here's a happy one instead
I learned a lot in one day.....

1. Never post or make any big decisions when you are feeling like a "guilty Gale" or a "Debbie downer".
2. Friends are so much cooler starts at an early age...way TOO early!
3. Life without texting/cell phones seems almost impossible
4. There isn't A LOT of options when playing with an 8 month old. (although this has to be the best age ever...I love every minute of it!)
5. Always try it out before committing to the plan.
6. Never go too extreme (no cooking, cleaning..eek)
7. I clearly have a more severe case of ADD then I thought
8. I still sound like a dead Elephant when attempting to make sound effects. (I rule at setting up a Star wars love scene though :))
9. A house really can get THAT dirty, THAT fast!
10. Cherish the time my kids want/ask me to play with them.

Well ladies my freaky fun Friday didn't go as well as I had planned. When I picked up the little man I was super excited! I'd had my time on the computer...talked on the phone...spent time with lil sis (when she was awake) I was committed! We walked in the door and I announced to the little man how excited I was and that this was our special day.

"What do you want to do little man? Its our special day, we can do whatever you want!"

"I wanna play with Owen Richards" (he calls Owen Johnson this) Or what about Kimball, or Isaac&Samuel"

"Oh I was hoping to have our special day where you get to play with mama, and we can do whatever you want"

"Oh MAN....BUT MAMA....I want to play with friends" "Real friends...your just my mama!" :(

And just like that Mama was given the shaft. Luckily lil sis car seat came in a huge box which ended up saving our Freaky Fun Friday. We spray painted it silver and turned it into his own little rocket ship. We have yet to decorate it with all the nobbie goodness, that will be our next little activity together. Kids are so awesome!

So Freaky Friday needs to be revised a little. I am thinking its best to stick with one special activity a week. And trying to spend "quality" (without all the interruptions) time with them everyday. Its still a work in progress and I welcome any suggestions.

Coming out of the closet

2010-01-20T09:03:00.000-08:00

Its time to come out of the closet folks...here is my secret. I love Oprah!! There I said it. I do, I love watching her, and think she does a lot of good for this country. I agree she plays the "I beat the odds" card a lot but I admire it and I admire what she has become. I don't enjoy when she has a celebrity on because let's be honest its a lot of booty kissing goodness and I don't think either of them need any more. Wait what was my point...oh right...

The other day I watched the episode when she was doing make-overs for frumpy stuck in the 80' moms, I wear sweats everyday moms, I borrow my kids clothes mom, and every mom in between. They were explaining what to wear in your 30's, 40's, and 50's-60's. Everything they said about what to wear when you are 30 I've been dreading ever since my fateful day in July. Its not to say the ladies didn't look fantastic (don't you wish sometimes you had endless funds to buy all the "right" clothes to look fantastic EVERYDAY...I know...I'm a little bit worldly). I know I need to give up the teenie bopper clothes...especially when I catch a 14 year old wearing the same clothes I am, it just makes me feel OLD. I need style people. I am so fashion gimpy its almost painful.

So on Monday I took her challenge and decided its time...time to let go of my twenties get up and start dressing "age appropriate". I ransacked my closet and let go of "most" of my teenie bopper clothes (did I really wear that unicorn shirt in public, last summer?) leaving me with a huge bag full of "what can I make with this" clothes(Little lady will love this when she's 10...right?).

Now I am supposed to ask my friends what they think my style is? So...huge fan base...could you help a sista out? Let me have it...even if it comes out as "ghetto wanna be stylish, did you seriously wear that in public? girl".

Oh and I won't be offended if anyone wants to turn me into the fashion police because I'm pretty sure I need it...BAD!
*Today is my first freaky fun Friday and I'm already wondering what I signed myself up for...eek I'm a terrible mom.

Stuff..stuff...and...more...stuff

2010-01-19T12:29:00.002-08:00

Well I was supposed to post this on Friday but life happens so here it is on Tuesday.
Its been frost central around here lately...here a few I took the other day. Its beautiful...but...bitter!!

What a world we live in today. I am super grateful for the world we live in. How lucky we are to have clean running water, warm houses, fresh food, clean clothes, flushing toilets, the list could go on and on. MOST of the time I am grateful for the new and improved inventions we have Internet, cell phones, email, etc. BUT......

Lately I can't help but think about all the "things" that are put into our lives to make us "busier" then we already are. It seems as if these things we put into our lives take us away from what really matters. I might be off base or maybe I'm a softy but its a feeling I've had and can't seem to kick. Its so easy to get caught up in the Internet blogging, searching, reading, or emailing. Or perhaps its talking on the phone, (or in my case texting like a 14 year old teenager) laundry, cleaning, meals, and crafting/thrifting. There is always something that NEEDS to be done....right?

Maybe I'm just a guilt ridden mom but I feel I am missing the best time of my kids life and filling it with the "busy" stuff instead. No worries I haven't decided to give up all my modern goodness and go live an Amish life (to which I commend those wonderful people for what they do). I've decided I want to create freaky fun Friday instead!! YAY! So my Fridays will now be just for my chillins. When my little man gets home from school its all him and whatever he wants to do/play. When my little lady is awake its all her. I won't be on the computer* or phone(not even text...eek). I won't be cleaning,(woot woot for me) organizing, cooking, or crafting.

I know this will be hard but I have no doubt it will be totally worth it and will probably end up being my most favorite day!!

*My computer rule will only be broken when my lovely MF is on the radio from 5-6.

Its time

2010-01-14T08:31:00.000-08:00

Bitter cold w/the warmth of the sun rising

Yesterday I was bummin myself out over everything. You name it I found a way to bum it. This morning I woke up feeling like I might do it all over again...YUCK!! So I decided its time...time to whip out the New Years "I will do it" list. Ever year I write up a big long extensive "I'm clearly going to fail" list only to be disappointed that yet again I didn't accomplish anything on the list. I'm doing it different this time...short...sweet...not "too hard"....I will accomplish it all list.

Here it is folks for your viewing pleasure!

1. Physically exert myself at least 6 days a week (notice I didn't say exercise...running up and down the stairs could be a physical exertion and I'm pretty sure its proven that folding laundry builds some serious muscle mass)
2. De-Junk one item a week(7 days to clean out one drawer..heaven! easy peasie lemon squeezie..as my little man would say)
3. Rise early, lay down early (like the wiggle room I'm creating?)
4. Family meals morning and night w/scrips (this one can be tough at times but I love the way it feels to start together and end together)
5. Take a picture everyday (my kids are beyond sick of the camera so if anyone wants me to come over and snap a shot or two my kids will thank you)
6. Read more, watch less (life without Oprah.Grey's. Law &order. what a sad lot that would be)
7. Freaky fun Friday's (I will explain this on Friday's post :))
8. Expand/fine tune my crafting abilities...be more thrifty and creative (finishing them will be the brutal part)
9. Save more. shop less (with my Gap kids cart filled up...ha)
10. Do more. Dream less (start living my dreams)
11. Less refined sugar(as I eat an Oreo...eek)

As you can see this year I'm going to cut myself some slack and have more realistic goals. I highly suggest this, that way you aren't kickin yourself by March 1st because you still haven't started or already failed multiple things. Happy late New year...now I need to get my booty off this chair and get crackin on my easy peasy lemon squeezie list :).

What's on your list? Anything fun you want to share?

Case of the MONDAYS!!!

2010-01-11T15:05:00.000-08:00

What is it about Monday's? Is it just me or are they destine to be mopy? I always seem to feel like this guy (isn't he cute? this was on the beach in Cali)when Monday rolls around. Not really sure why considering I didn't have a rough and tough weekend or anything. You would think it would be a great day since you should be rejuvinated from the weekend but man its a turdtastic day for me. I don't feel like doing ANYTHING, and its for sure a day you will find me in my jammies at 4 (by 4:30 I have to change into jeans, put on a shirt and pick up a few things before MF gets home to discover what a "blob O goodness" I've been that day)lucky to have had a shower. I totally have a case of the MONDAY'S every Monday...anyone have any cures?

She'll knock your socks off!!

2010-01-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

Not much to say...isn't she beautiful! As soon as I saw this shot I thought of this song (minus the baby crying..ha ha and the fact that its about a newborn baby)! This is our Hot mama shots clothing designer! We took a few shots in below freezing temps but she was such a sport :).

This one is MF loved with a little PS action...Which one do you like better?

Sorry Hay don't be mad...you look lovely!! Hope you don't mind :)

What DO I want to be when I grow up?

2010-01-08T20:34:00.000-08:00

So here's the skinny! I love being a mom...LOVE IT!! I don't think there is anything more rewarding then being a mom. It is one of the hardest jobs around and I love it. Did I already mention I love being a mom...well I do...but I want to do more. I have an itch ever since I quit working full time to stay home with Joshua. No worries my itch would never include working full time and being away for set hours everyday.

I've tried to decide what my passions are? The problem is I have two things I would love to do.

Drum roll.......I would love to be a personal trainer and I would love to be a photographer.

This might sound total cheese ball and you can tell me honestly if it does but I adore people. I adore working with people, making them happy, capturing moments, possibly changing lives. I feel I've been blessed with the gift of love. I'm not awesome at allowing folks to love me but I can love them easy enough. Both of the above options give me the opportunity to work with people. The question is which one do I dive after? I am leaning more towards photography (hello hot mama shots...babies...kids...families...I love it all) but nowadays it seems like EVERYONE is doing it.

Any thoughts ladies? Anyone want to help a sista out?

Pics all dolled up!

2010-01-04T16:09:00.001-08:00

Guess the man friend couldn't stand them as large and raw as they were...so here they are all dolled up! New Years resolution...Learn Photoshop.

My new super duper LOVE!!!

2010-01-04T12:37:00.000-08:00

I've always loved taking pictures but now I really love it! I love my camera and what amazing pics it captures and I love giving people moments in their life that mean so much. Here a few pics I've taken of some lovely people, kids, and families. Bare with me...I don't do the Photoshop thing so everything you see here is straight from my camera...I apologize to those who want to make my pics look better...I'll get there one day I promise! Right now I am loving just taking the pics.

Ok I am terrible at this blogspot deal! I wish it had a gallery option...does it and I'm just retarded? There are so many more pics I wanted to put up but the files are huge and its not doing what I want it to....sorry this looks so ghetto! AHHHHHH!! Before I throw my computer through the window I better just post! If anyone needs some pics taken I would be happy to practice. There are a few people I am hunting down...you know who you are!

I know all you mamas out there can't wait until I start up my Hot Mama shots!! Its all coming together..I am super excited! Spread the love if you know of anyone that does awesome make-up.

Aliens are real!

2010-01-04T09:44:00.000-08:00

So I have had a million thoughts lately so bare with all the posts of my head thinking out loud.

An alien force has taken over my body and mind! I'm not one to believe in flying saucers or alien abductions but I'm pretty sure its the only explanation for what's been happening to me lately. I'm not exactly sure when they "beamed me" up planted a chip in my brain that's been telling me to give working out the big fat bird, sweets are even more tasty then before, and eating healthy sucks the joy out of life, but its working people. I have been on working out/eating healthy "strike" since Thanks for the givens. This is the longest time ever that I haven't done a thing and continued to shove my face full of SUGAR...eek! Even at this moment I should be working out but posting and wasting time reading other blogs seems so much more appealing.

I was hoping the New Year would kick in some desire and I would tell those aliens to eat my workin out booty but alas here I sit Jan 4 every pore closed tight without a sweat bead to be found. Someone help me! I don't think my clothes will hold out much longer.

What happened to my New year fire? Anyone else going through the same problem?

Glamour shots but cooler!

2009-12-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

So I have this crazy and wild idea. Do you remember Glamour shots (sorry I had to..it was hilarious)? I know you do! You would show up, they would do your hair and make-up IE how large, poofy, and gobby can we make you look all while putting you in hideous pooftastic outfits! Good times right? Well I've been thinking....and....I would like to do something along those lines...am I crazy? Let me explain.

As a mom you always get put last...right? You are always the one behind the camera. When are you ever in the shot? I know right now you might not want pictures of just you but later in life when everything including your once beautiful perky hoots have gone south you will want to look back and admire how "North" you use to look.

So here it is HOT MAMA SHOTS! You would get pampered for a day. Hair, make-up, and clothes all done for you! Then I will take the pictures of you on your HOT MAMA day! My problem would be the fact that I don't do hair, make-up, or fashion! EEK! Anyone want to partner up on my crazy idea? Do you think I could get some mamas on board with my sweet idea?

Tell the truth..am I insane?

SUCK my New Moon BLOOD BABY!!

2009-12-02T09:49:00.000-08:00

Its crazy how nowadays I can say "team Jacob" and people across the world know what I am talking about and will most likely shout back "team Edward". Back before 2005 if I said "team" anything people would think I needed to visit the nut house. Thanks to our lovely friend Stephanie Meyer ladies around the world are asking their blood to be sucked by a pasty sparkle man. I have been quite shocked by the Twilight saga. I had to keep asking if all this twiliotes, twigits, twilinites or whatever it is they call themselves was for real. When everyone around me was swooning and the pool was packed with the newest blood sucking goodness I kept asking if I missed the memo and the book wasn't really about vampires. Vampires...really ladies?

Don't get me wrong I love a good read in fact I totally dig a book I can't put down, it goes with me everywhere and I try to squeeze it in with any free moment. To be fair I've never read the Twilight saga so I can't be completely fair reviewing the books. My assessment of the Twliandian goodness is on the movies alone. Why haven't I read the books you ask? Probably because I'm sure I would possibly get sucked in but mostly because the books I read are previewed by my fantastic sister. She has never led me astray and I have always loved what she suggested. I hate to say it Ladies but my sister gave blood suckers two thumbs down, which is why I myself have never allowed Edward to suck my time.

It wasn't until the movies came out I allowed myself to check out what all the hype was about. First there was Twilight, a pretty cheese ball movie. It was a super low budget film and struggled in so many ways. For example Mr sparkle and the little twiddle diddle when the sun showed his true sparkle. Or let's not forget the "hop on my back and let's run through the forest/train track" bit. Even though it had so many flaws something kept my attention and left me wanting more (embarrassing as it is to admit, I'll come back to what I think it is). I don't think it will ever be in my DVD collection but I didn't put it on my "most terrible movie ever made" list. Still, surprisingly enough it trumped expectations and made a shiz load of cash, thanks to the thousands of twigises around the world who have read this blood sucking goodness.

Then came New Moon (lucky me I have an amazing man friend that allows me to see the movie before it even hits the theaters..I know he's dreamy and not at all pasty), a much higher budget, new director. This movie was set to be much better, maybe a little less cheese. Well its true to expectations in that it has much less cheese, higher budget, and new less cheese ball director. I'll admit that even though I have a hard time buying into the vampire/werewolf deal I actually enjoyed it, shocking I know.

In New Moon team Jacob is pulled into the mix as the "I also love the pouty sad chick named Bella" Werewolf. Edward bails out of "love" leaving Bella turning to Jacob to pull her out of this depressed sadness that is life without the sparkle paste man. He's there for her, helps her, loves her and she definately takes advantage. I think she leads him on people..sorry but I do. Then pasty sparkle almost ends his life because he thinks pouty girl is dead. Don't worry she saves the day and puts werewolf on the back burner. Yet again I found myself pulled in by its powerful portrail of love. (Yikes did I just say that..never thought that line and a vampire movie would go together)

Now my thoughts on why I was somehow sucked in to all this foolishness and why I think women are creating fan clubs, camping out at movie theatres, and secretly hoping for a pasty sparkle man to show up at their door. Everyone keeps saying its because women are remembering their first love and where I'm sure that could be the case for some women/girls I don't think its it.

You ready...I think we are so sucked into this young love because we all secretly want to be loved as much as Bella is....now...not back in Junior High or maybe even grade school for all you hoochies out there...oh I kid. Who wouldn't want the love that sparkle or hairy has for Bella? Its deep, passionate, undying. Ladies, we eat all that mooshy crap up! Everyone keeps asking how a book can create this emotional response in women...hello this is what and all we dream about!

Am I way off base ladies? What are your thoughts on this Twiliadian obsession? Do tell!

Luckily I have my pasty sparkle man already..he is truly amazing...but I promise I don't act like Bella! Sure do die over my man friend....Love you sweets!

Troubling past...I wish

2009-11-18T10:17:00.000-08:00

I'm a little bit ticked right now. Not ticked that the world and Goverment are going straight down the pooper, or that its bitter cold in Cache Valley and its only November, or that my lil baby girl is sick AGAIN, or that I happen to pick up the family plague, or that there is never enough time during the day to get things done.

Nope I'm ticked that I am so weak! WEAK I SAY!!!

I've been doing P90X for almost ninety days now and its been AWESOME! The program is sweet and it totally kicks my booty, I love it. The best part is I am really seeing results ie I have biceps and triceps, who knew. Who also knew that your shoulder is more then one muscle and has strips of glory? Its all true, fun to see, and I love that I am getting stronger to boot. I can do 20+ manly push-ups (3 whole body shaking ones when I started) and 4 pull ups (I could barely hang on to the bar). For the first time in my life I can actually see muscles in my stomach instead of the uni pack and roll (One big square with a roll at the end, my perfect little tire) I've had my whole life, we call it the Dunkley ponch (guess my sisters deal with the same dilema).

Just when I think it might be possible to actually have the stomach of my dreams I crumble. I am weak. I have a killer sweet tooth and it burdens me so! Halloween comes around and I think I can resist the ever so delicious candy corn, I fail! Not just a little fail, I'm pretty sure I ate at least 3 bags...how nasty is that. Then the left over loot, you don't even want to know how many tootsie rolls I ate and I don't even like them. And of course the trick or treating candy which the little man still asks where his big loot ended up. Oh sorry pal, its around my waist and in my cheeks. I feel quite glutinous pointing all this out, yuck!

I was hoping as I travel through these glutinous weeks of candy, cookie dough, brownies etc I could try to blame a troubling past or a deep repressed memory/void I am trying to fill. What makes me eat the third bag of candy corn, or 1/2 the batch of cookie dough, or devour my little mans candy stash?

Truth is I got nothing! My childhood was awesome and I was super lucky my parents didn't try to sell me on the black market. I have an amazing husband and 2 amazing kids. What more could I ask for?

Plain and simple I'm weak and I love love love sweets! Anyone else as weak as I am? Does anyone have a cure because I'm pretty sure it could make it on my "its a disorder" list? Spread the love, please!

If anyone out there could tell me some nasty stories on how rats bathe in the sugar that makes the candy, or how there are tiny hairs (curly, black, long, you name it) secretly baked in every sweet thing I love that would be great! Those kind of stories could really cure this girl of her sweet tooth!

Crafter/thrifter wannabe

2009-11-16T11:23:00.000-08:00

My friend Hayley introduced me to the life of crafting/thrifting (she was the quiet book wonder women). I know its nothing new but you know me I am the behind the times kinda gal. She sent me links to all these amazing blogs where all these amazing women craft it up and come up with the most amazing ideas. Did I already say its amazing? There are three blogs I now obsess over (thanks Hayley) and they really are so amazing and crafty/thrifty. I find myself in awe and amazement (boy I sure do love the word amazing...I think I get an award for most use of the word amazing in one paragraph he he!)

My out loud comments consist of....Really, that is an old sweater? No way that is an old entertainment center? Come on ladies is that really a $4 dollar find...it looks so dang cute? What? How on earth do you come up with those ideas? I want that! I can do that!! (me totally dreaming).

I figured I could try my hand at it. I went to wally world (sorry I know it wasn't a thrift store but I was planning on putting it in my hair...eek) and bought three head bands for two bucks. I had a bunch of material left over from doing the quiet book so I decided why not make myself one of those cute headbands that are so hot right now.

Wrapped the headband (nurses must love me...geew)

Made this simple flower

Glued on the flower and then made a matching one for my little princess.

Man friend think its "Um OKEEEE" (dude translation...ugly). Is it totally ugly? Am I too seasoned to be wearing one? I thought it turned out pretty dang cute, not bad considering it only cost me 65cents.

My next crafty project is this just on a smaller scale. Then I want to try my hand at this with one of my man friends old shirts. Of course the big doosie is going to be this kick booty item that I will be starting shortly. YEAH for creative mom's and for me copying them...keep it up ladies.

Thunder baby!

2009-11-13T13:02:00.000-08:00

I am a runner through and through. I love to run. I love the runners high. I love hitting the streets/mountain trails just me and the pavement/dirt. I hope I never have to give it up and I don't think any other activity could replace just how awesome it feels after a good long run.

With that said I've been spinning a lot lately. I take this spin class in the most ghetto gym in Cache valley (hey its cheap people and I don't go to check out the quality of the place). I needed something besides just running because switch up is healthy and much easier on my body. When I first started going the class was quiet and everyone talked about when they would be hitting the streets together (Who knew there is a whole network of bikers here in Logan). I wanted and needed some umph!! I started hootin and screaming and telling the ladies to pick it up and that we could do it, mostly to keep me going but the ladies started to enjoy it. Now I'm the designated cheerleader to keep the ladies going. Sometimes I wish I wasn't because sometimes I have no desire to be there.

Back to the point...I really enjoy it and it kicks my booty but I have a very valid and real fear! THUNDER THIGHS! I am so afraid that if I keep spinning as much as I am my legs are going to look like this chicks (never from the waist up since I've had two babies and my girls look more like rocks in socks)! Geewww! Can anyone offer any comfort? Do I need to find a new alternative? Nobody likes the thunder thighs! If I become a spinner am I destine to have thunder thighs?

P.S. The instructor seriously said the "P" word today...the whole thing...shouldn't that word be off limits? I can't stand that word! Anyone feel the same or am I over reacting?

Girlie heaven

2009-11-12T13:45:00.000-08:00

I am in girl heaven! I knew I always wanted to have a little girl but it is beyond fun. I was worried about loving two kids..worry over folks I die over both my kids. They are amazing!

Lil sis is growing so fast. She is already 6 months and I can't believe she is so big already. She is rolling ALL over and can get from one end of the room to the other lightning fast. She is getting her two bottom teeth at the same time and is pretty ticked about it...ouch! She talks and laughs all the time and has really turned out to be an amazing baby. She lights up our whole family, we can't get enough of our little princess. She finally has enough hair on top that I've been able to pull it in a baby pony and as you can guess I LOVE IT!!

Look how cute she looks!!

Friend withdrawls

2009-11-08T19:34:00.000-08:00

I've been kinda bummed lately. Maybe I am just having a sad pity party for myself but man I'm bummed. It seems like a few months ago life was a little better, I was a little happier. Did I just imagine that things were going awesome? Did I think/dream things were better then they were? What changed from now to a few months ago?

I think I figured it out why or what seems like the only explanation! A few months ago I was working on a quiet book (I will post pics soon) with a bunch of wonderful ladies/friends! Once a week they would come to my house to have a ladies night and we would work on the book. We would talk about everything, laugh about everything, and even cry about almost everything. I really enjoyed those nights just with my friends. Well the books done (not mine because I just happen to put the z backwards, yes I am retarded) and the weeks of ladies time have turned into quiet t.v. remote time...how depressing!

Where did all my friends go? They off and done got lives that don't involve quiet books at my house.

This I know for sure...I need friends...I need a ladies night...this makes me happy. I need ladies I can talk to and not worry about if they will like me when I act like a dork or totally screw up. I need friends that like me for me.

I need and want friends...any takers? I might even be able to pay you if I can get my man friend to add "friend buy off" to our monthly expenses.

Sorry for the bummed out post...I'll try and get out of my pity party.

Pants without the peg

2009-11-07T18:54:00.001-08:00

I can't believe it! I took the plunge today and bought my first pair of skinny jeans...YIKES!!! I have to admit that for the longest time and even now they remind a little of when I used to "roll and pin" my jeans back in the day. Who knew they would be the "HOT" new style.

Okay fine I know they've been the hot new jean for awhile now but I'm a behind the times kinda gal. For instance when capris came out I told myself I wouldn't be caught dead in those silly little 1/2 pants and now I have over 6 pairs. Or when long shorts came back in style...there was no way you find them in my closet...7 pairs later. I am the type of person that has to "warm" up to styles and then maybe I might adapt them into my clothes line up.

Now the problem is what on earth and how on earth do I wear them? I was thinking they would look super sexy with these hot boots but the man friend just put the kibosh on them. He not only but the kibosh he said they were atrocious...brutal! What do you think? Are they as ugly as he says?

I look forward to the responses...ha ha! I'll be posting a pic of my hot new skinny pants...wahoo for pants without the peg and the sweet invention of spandex.

Singers regret

2009-11-06T22:18:00.000-08:00

I just got done watching the Oprah Karaoke show where she pulled random folks who have great voices and love to sing. She told viewers to send a video and of course I didn't. I am yet again filled with regret that I didn't take the leap of faith and at least try. I love to sing, I always have but I've never felt good enough. I know there will always be someone (or plenty) better then I am but I just keep hoping and wishing that one day I will have my chance on stage to "sing it baby".

Reality check: I don't see that happening unless some record dude shows up at my church on the day I've been asked to sing. So I will continue to sing in the shower, behind closed doors, and occasionally at my church.

Give it up for dream crushing!! WOO WOO

The Help

2009-11-06T14:16:00.000-08:00

I ordered "The Help" off Amazon awhile back and it finally came today. I've turned into a "bloomed a little late love to read" gal. I never loved to read until I discovered some awesome books, they drew out emotion in me that I never knew words in a book could do. Some of my favorites are Kite Runner, Thousand Splendid suns, Jane Eyre,and Pillars of the Earth. Random selection I know but they really are great books. Each of them roped me in to the point of I'd rather read then eat, sleep, and shower.

I've heard through the grapevine (and my lovely sister) The Help is a great book. Apparently she was turned down 5 plus times and is now rocking it at the top of the bestsellers list, I love it! Its stories like this that give me hope great things can happen to little people even after no one else believed in them but they kept believing in themselves.

I am pretty excited to start reading it. I've always wanted to do a book club but can't seem to get anyone to join the club (small detail). Both of my sisters do one and they really love it. Guess you have to have friends to do that and I unfortunately am in short supply of those.

Looks like dunkindo will be my book club haven. Stay tune for how the book is going.

Its the PITS!!

2009-11-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

(This was a post I wanted to put on our blog but man friend thought it was too much info...not too much info just for me :)

I'm normally a pretty closed person-- even to some of my closest friends (I think I have a few...anyone?). Honestly, I think it's because I've always worried that if people find out some of the things that make me "Me", they might not like me anymore. I get that it's not right, but it's human nature for people to judge. This isn't a post about not judging, I just wanted to make the point that the story I'm about to tell is totally out of my comfort zone and I'm hoping some of you Mamas will step in and help a Sista out by sharing your own Mama moments.

Being a mom is a tough job, Oprah even says so. No, but really it is and I love it! All of you ladies know that being a mom means you might not always get the time to finish that book, finish the laundry, make that gourmet meal, dust, change the sheets, do the dishes etc. You're considered lucky to even get a shower.

Oh the shower, don't you just LOVE the shower. I really think there are few things in life as awesome as a long, hot shower. For me, it just washes away all your worries and for a moment you're alone relaxing and everything outside the shower doesn't matter. Everything that stunk before is fresh and clean. I would get the best ideas in the shower and sing my lungs out.

Then I had kids.

With kids your shower moments are more like...."Sweet I think I have two minutes I do a quick three point wash and call it good". The hair will just have to make it another day and I'm pretty sure pants are a go to hide my extremely long leg hairs. I won't be doing the wave in a tank top today or --heaven forbid-- putting on a swimsuit, so the three point system will work. No, relaxing in the shower is a thing of the past for me. Now every noise I hear is probably something bad (Little Dude just ran out of the house and is playing in the street, Little Sis learned how to crawl and is falling out of her crib, some bad man waited until I stepped in the shower and now he's in my house, you name it...I think it!) My two minute shower turns to one and I'm out, ready for action!

The other day, it was one of those days. I really wanted to get in the shower, but there was just too much to be done. Laundry, cleaning, feeding-- does it ever end? Then my lovely wonderful friend texted me and asked if Little Dude could come over for an hour or so. What!? She didn't even have to ask...of course! It just happened to be time for Little Sis to take a nap. Could it be true, would I actually get a shower today? I thanked her profusely and then asked her for a beard trimmer so I could take a first pass at my sweet hippie legs. I sent Little Dude on his way, put Little Sis down, ignored the tornado house and stepped into... HEAVEN!!!

Then, horror. Taking multiple minutes on the three point system, I happen to notice something that took my breath away. Was that the longest pit hair I've ever seen? No, it's a hair from my head that snuck down...right?

But it wouldn't wash off.

Okay, so it was a super-sticky hair from my head. I'm pretty sure Little Dude had honey in his oatmeal and I must have got some in my hair. Gross! I couldn't believe it! No way that is a pit hair. I'll admit I don't shave my pits everyday... but at least every other day!

I jumped out of the shower-- I had to see this in the mirror. HOLY POOP it was a pit hair! It was long, people....super long. I'm pretty sure I would've given Woodstock ladies a run for their money. I had to pluck it out with the tweezers...my goodness how embarrassing! Then and there I made a pact in my mind: From here on out I would be taking that extra min to make sure I got all of the hairs clipped and trimmed in my pits so there will be no more Woodstock action happening.

OK. Help a Sista out! Anyone else have a Mama moment? Or just a moment you want to share so I don't feel so naked?

Here I am

2009-11-04T08:05:00.000-08:00

Well folks here I am. I started a blog just for me. I won't be trying to drive traffic. I won't be hoping for comments. I won't be hoping to make it big one day. I will just post my life in the raw. I will post without worry of competing. I will post without worrying what anyone thinks. I started this blog just for me. Let the fun begin!