Where in the heck!

*I just had to share another picture of little J!*
Where did I get all the sCRAP! When we came back from Europe last month, it was a mad dash to plan little J's birthday party, and get ready for Christmas. Needless to say, my scraproom has suffered and looked like a disaster area. So, this week has been a clean and organize week for me. My scraproom is now clean enough to do something in again. I did however find that I HAVE A TON OF STUFF! My first New Year's resolution will be to go back on my spending challenge. Things were going so well for awhile, and then it all just fell apart! As I was going through my stash, I found so many things that I really want to put on some pages. The only problem with that, is that now all these ideas are jumbled up in my head and I'm having trouble putting them on to paper.

So, here are just a few of my resolutions as far as this scraping habit goes:
1. Use my stash!
2. Be more frugal in my buying. I have actually made great improvements in this area over the last year. Thanks to Stacey and Rebecca.
3. Be more productive! No more kits, unless I have a plan to use them!
4. Purge! Be ready for the next garage sale and get some of this stuff that I know I will never use outta here!
5. Back to the spending challenge!!!

Merry Christmas!

Things have been so crazy busy around here, that I have not had much chance to update my blog lately. I love Christmas time so much, even with all the craziness of it. The Christmas shopping is just about done! I am always so last minute with the shopping, but (and I know this sounds weird), I love all the last minute running around! This Christmas will be very low key around here. Just the three of us and one of my sister-in-laws. I totally dig hanging out with her! G says it is crazy, how we are so much alike. It's really cool, that I feel like she is my sister, since I don't have any biologically speaking. Anyway, Something to look forward to, my SIL,
Rebecca and I went to see Memoirs of a Geisha. I'll tell you more about our fun another day! I wanted to share this adorable photo of little J smiling and wish you all a very Merry Christmas! See you soon!

I'm so lucky!

Okay, so yesterday was a day of venting. Today, I decided that there should be just happy talk! It is so amazing how fast little J is growing up. I was just looking at his photo with Santa compared to the one we had taken last year. WOW! What a huge difference! It really seems like I was just pregnant yesterday. The pictures here were taken in October, when we went for little J's first trip to the pumpkin patch. I love how the photos turned out! The only thing I wonder, is why, when I finally get to be in a photo with little J, and I like how I look, can't G take the photo when he's smiling? As you can see, I captured little J smiling with G! Oh well, I'm so lucky to have both of them.....I'm just happy :)

I just need to vent!

I am getting so frustrated right now. I joined a circle journal group back in March of 2004. We didn't start sending our journals out until April. Around May, I found out I was pregnant with little J, thus my lack of energy which got me behind in completing some of the circle journals in a timely fashion. So, I got behind. Well, by July I think, I was all caught up, and things were rolling. I had warned my fellow circle journalers that come December, it might take me a little longer to complete my journal assignment for that month, since little J was due to make his appearance. There was no problem. I think I was about 3 weeks late getting this journal out, and then things were back on track. Meanwhile, I was not the only one getting behind. People were going MIA left and right. So, in July, a few of us started getting antsy to find out the progress of the journals and started sending check-in emails. We still were not hearing from a few of our group members. Then, we finally get a post from one of the MIA journalers. She posts that she received my album back in December...(UM HELLO! It's July!) She says that she decided to hang on to it, because I was behind at the time, and she wanted to make sure I got things going again...(UM HELLO AGAIN! I let the group know I would be delivering a baby! Sorry I didn't take the CJ to the hospital and complete it in the labor room!) Anyway, I let the comment slide, because I knew she had some personal things that took her attention away from the group and she seemed to feel bad that she'd had it so long, and she was going to get it moving again in a couple of weeks. Well, here we are in December, and SHE STILL HAS IT! Along with 2 other journals. Now, I'm getting freaking mad! Now, one of the gals in the group, just wants her journal back, and wants to be done. While I completely understand this, it sucks, because she is an amazing artist, and I really wanted to see her work in my album! It sucks, because my album will not be complete, but this CJ holder will have everyone's work. Also, I finally posted to the group that I was upset about her comments back in July, but let it slide at the time, but now that my journal has been in her care for a year, I just had to vent a bit. It just sucks! Thankfully, I'm in a CJ with some other gals I know, and things are going great with that one. Thanks for reading my long rant! I promise something more fun and uplifting tomorrow!

Santa in Switzerland!!!

While we were in Switzerland, they started their annual Christmas market. What an amazing experience! In town, they have lots of little chalets set up, with people selling everything from food to handmade goods to even some stamp supplies. The stamp supplies were the closest thing I got to scrapbooking the entire time we were there! Wow, was I going through withdrawls! Anyway, back to the Christmas market. They also have Santa's office. You take this train ride, which is about 1 hour, up this mountain, and at the top is this long tunnel you walk through, and at the end, is this amazing view, with a small area to have a beverage, and Santa's office. This was so much fun! Everyone there was so nice, and Santa was not busy at that time at all, so he spent time chatting with us, and little J was just in awe. I realize at 1, he really doesn't get the whole Santa thing, but he was smiling the entire time Santa was holding him, and even when we put him back in the stroller, he was just staring and smiling at Santa. I am so thankful, that we went ahead and purchased the photos they were selling there, as my camera broke, and the photos I took of little J with Santa did not turn out at all. I love the little smile on his face! Priceless!!

WOW! What a crazy couple of weeks!

WOW! I can't believe that just over a week ago, I was still in Paris! Things around here have been non-stop since we arrived home on the November 30th. I can't even remember when I've had a moment to think! After a long flight home and a few escapades in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Airport, we put our feet on the San Francisco soil and we have not stopped since. When we got home, we had 4 days to prepare for little J's first birthday party. That was no easy task either. Since we left the house in a huge disaster, we had to clean house, order food, order the cake, go to the laundromat(more on this later), and get the house decorated. Whew, I'm tired just thinking about it again! The party was a great success, and thanks to all my friends who came! Little J has been having fun with all his new toys.

Yes, even after the great vacation, I had to come home and go back to the laundromat. We had a ton of laundry, and still no laundry room. But.......Big news flash here......AS OF SUNDAY, I WILL HAVE MY LAUNDRY ROOM BACK!!! ***Me doing the happy dance here*** We still have not settled with the freak who messed it all up, but we got the floor finished today! My brand new washer and dryer get moved back in tomorrow! WAHOOOOO!

So, anyway, it's good to be back! I owed a few of you some postcards, which I will send out...even though I'm back already, but I was thinking of you!! Things will really be back to normal, when DH finally goes back to work! AHHHH...the house to myself (and little J)!

PICTURES TO FOLLOW SOON!

In the line of duty.

While on vacation and checking in with our local news websites, we found this story about CHP officer Andy Stevens being shot and killed after a routine traffic stop. As many of you know, G is a CHP officer also, so when we hear of this happening, it really hits home. Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Stevens family. I am so glad that law enforcement was able to catch the suspects without any further injuries or deaths. Say a prayer for all the officers out there who do their job to protect you everyday. Also say a thank you prayer for those who have made the ulitmate sacrifice.

It's a working vacation!

So, I have not updated since our bags were packed and we were off on our first adventure with little J. He is such a little trooper. After a few delays which resulted in 28 hours of travel, from leaving our doorstep to arriving at my parents home, little J is an amazing little kid. Not a peep out of this kid for the entire trip! People on the planes commented that they didn't even know there was a baby sitting with us! What a blessing!

The first week here has been a little rough. It took about 4 days to get little J adjusted to the time zone. Then, come to find out this kid is sprouting teeth right and left! He left the USA with 3 teeth, and I think he'll be coming home with at least 4 more! We've done a little sightseeing here in Switzerland, but mostly we've just hung out with my parents and gotten little J adjusted. We traveled to Italy this last weekend to a small town in the north called Romano Canavese. My parents used to live there when they were working in Italy. Their old landlords are now like family, so we had a wonderful full Italian dinner with them this last Saturday. It was the first time they met little J and we met Alesandro who is now 1 1/2. What a cute little kid with lots and lots and lots of energy. We had such a great time and it was wonderful to catch up with them! Little J is a bit under the weather now though, he has a little cold, and as I said he is growing teeth faster than his hair is growing......

More on our adventures later, and I will post some pictures when I can!

Just about ready to go!

Well, the bags are almost packed. G is doing the usual, "This seems like a lot of hassle" routine. He always gets that way around travel time. You know he's going to have a great time though, once it's all said and done. I can't wait to get traveling! I will say, that getting ready has been a bit more crazy, since we also have to get little J ready, and you never know what your gonna need. Hopefully I got everything! Keep your fingers crossed that he's as good traveling as he is every other day! I'll try my best to update you all while we are gone! I'm gonna miss you all, but I know I'll be having a great time too.
Take Care!

I got tagged by Island Girl!

Don't worry Jen, I'm not gonna tell you that you suck! :) So Jen has tagged me and asked me to take the 2x2 quiz. It kind of had perfect timing, since my brain is overloaded with all the things I must get done before yesterday. It's kind of funny and nice that some of our answers are the same. It's nice to know your not alone in some of the things you are thinking, wishing for or striving for. So, here you go Jen, the answers to my 2x2 quiz! Thanks for the challenge!

*2 names you go by
1. Laurie
2. Mommy :)
*2 parts of your heritage
1. Filipino
2. Dutch
*2 things that scare you
1. Something bad happening to G while working or to little J
2. My house catching fire
*2 of your everyday essentials
1. Starbucks-Summer= Java Chip Frappuccino w/peppermint Winter=Gingerbread Latte
2. A good book
*2 things you are wearing right now
1. pink t-shirt
2. jogging pants
*2 of your favorite bands or musical artists (at the moment)
1. Kenny Chesney
2. Gwen Stefani
*2 favorite songs (at the moment)
1. Come Clean by Hillary Duff
2. Collide by Howie Day
*2 things you want in a relationship (other than real love)
1. make me laugh
2. being true
*2 truths
1. I love to shop!
2. I watch way too much TV.
*2 physical things that appeal to you (in the opposite sex)
1. eyes
2. butt!
*2 of your favorite hobbies
1. Duh...scrapping.
2. reading
*2 things you want really badly
1. to be comfortable in my skin and feel accomplished
2. to be published
*2 places you want to go on vacation
1. Back to Venice and the Vatican in Italy
2. Hawaii -can you believe I've never been!
*2 things you want to do before you die
1. See little J grow up and have a family of his own.
2. Find a way to be stress free.
*2 ways that you are stereotypically a dude/chick
1. I own too many shoes.
2. I like to shop.
*2 things you are thinking about now
1. How am I ever going to get everything done before we leave for Europe.
2. I wanna do some scrapping!
*2 stores you shop at
1. New York & Company
2. Target
2 people i would like to see take this quiz
1. Krista
2. Lara

Little J got his first kiss from a girl today!

This week is getting so crazy, getting ready for our trip. J and I took a little time out to have some lunch with my friend Emelyn and her little one Jasmine. We had a nice relaxing lunch, some good chat, and lots of kiddie entertainment. Jasmine is so adorable! Even with Spaghetti all over her face! She just loved little J, and gave him cute little kisses, on his hand, his cheek and the back of his head. He of course was all full of smiles! So, little J got his first kiss from a girl, and the only sad thing is that I don't have pictures to scrap of it!

What a cute little Tigger!

So the little one's first Halloween has come and gone. I'm a little sad that it is over already. I'm pretty sure that G and I had more fun that Josh did. G had the house all decked out and ready for the Trick or Treaters. It looked really good, we got lots of complements on it. We decided that we were not going to actually take the little one out trick or treating, but instead just let him go with us to answer the door in his costume. We did take him to a couple of the older neighbors that we knew would enjoy seeing him earlier in the evening. He really enjoyed seeing all the kids come to the door. He especially liked the little babies. He loved this one little kid that came by that had a doggy costume on. This little kid was so cute, and kept making his costume bark. The little one would just crack up every time he heard this thing bark. By 7:30 though, he was done. He had been such a little trooper towards the end. We were just waiting for one of our neighbors to show up with their kid, and then we were calling it a night. All in all, this was one of the best Halloweens ever. I loved seeing all the kids in their costumes, and all the friendliness of the neighbors. Next year, we are taking him out to collect candy for sure though!

Thank you honey!

The last couple of days have been kinda crazy. Yesterday, I had to go to the Passport Agency to get my passport corrected, and what I thought would be a few hour trip, turned into an all day event. I was exhausted when the little one and I got home. I must say though, that while San Francisco isn't the most baby friendly town (meaning difficult to maneuver around a bit, very few places with entries wide enough for strollers, and very few places with changing tables), the people were amazingly helpful! I've never seen so many people help by opening doors, and especially the guy in line at the passport agency when it was time to pick up the passport. After being in town all day waiting for 3:30pm to arrive, the passports were finally ready at 4pm. They told everyone there (about 50 people) to line up. Since I had the stroller, I was going to wait until the end (I mean, how long could it take to hand out a passport). This very nice man at the front of the line, saw that the little one was a bit tired just rubbing his little eyes, told me to get in front of him! WOW! What a great gesture! Anyway back to the topic at hand. Then today, I woke up early, because the little one had an appointment with the pediatrician to get his last half of his flu shot. Well, we got all ready, went out to the car, got all loaded up, and.......nothing. The car would not start. UGGGGHHHHH! So there I am, unloading the car and heading back in the house to reschedule the appointment. I must admit though, it was nice to stay home all day.

Well, can I just say, that I have the best husband on the planet! Yesterday, after I got home, even though he had worked all day long and painted our laundry room, he took over caring for the little one, so I could have a much needed rest! Then today, after a long day at work, he came home and fixed my car up! So, I just want to say THANK YOU HONEY! I LOVE YOU!

The littlest things can inspire you.

I have been in a major rut lately. I don't know exactly what brought it on, but it has just been lingering. Finally today, I feel like the haze is lifting. I went to have coffee at Starbucks with my favorite aunt, who is also my godmother. We just sat and sipped our drinks (and you know mine was a mint mocha chip frappacino) and chatted for 2 hours. I really love spending time with her. She really inspires me with how when things are tough, she keeps going and going and going and going. Don't get me wrong, she's not superwoman (well, she is in some respects), it's just that even when we talk about the "little black clouds" she always has a positive attitude and just keeps plugging away to the positive outcome. The little one, of course was an angel, for the whole two hours. He chatted with us for a little bit and then took a nice long nap in his stroller. It was so relaxing to just hang out. I feel so relaxed now, and ready to complete all my tasks.

I also got some promising news today. My cousin was diagnosed with cancer a litle while back. Well last week, he completed his chemotherapy treatments. His tumor marker is down and his doctors are very optomistic. He goes in for a test at the end of the month that will reveal (notice I am saying it will) that all is well with him and he can get back to enjoying life again.

Well, that's it for now, I better go scrap while I'm feeling the inspiration!!!

Burned Out.

Ever have those days, when you just have so much to do, that you just want to hide in your bed and hope that someone else will do it? Things have been so super crazy the last 3 weeks, and they show no signs of slowing down. There was a time when I was used to this craziness, but those days are gone. Maybe I'm too old for the craziness? I never thought so before. Anyway, I really don't have much to blab about today, I'm off to bed!

Scrapbooking....Scrapbooking....

Do you ever:

*wonder why we must have all the newest stuff before it even hits the shelves?
*wonder why we just see a picture of some new scrapbook supply and know we have to have it before we even know how much it is?
*think that the whole notion of preserving the past or the memories has gone to the wayside with the majority of scrappers?
*wonder why some "scrappers" really seem to only be validated if they are published?
*get caught up in other peoples designs or styles and feel like you've lost your own?
*feel less than creative when you look around at your massive stash?
*feel less creative than those around you?

Okay, enough of that.....Krista commented on my last "Must Turn Away" post, that she was glad their were not links. Rene wondered why I stopped at 8. Well, that was only because I was lazy, so I have expanded my list and included links where possible. Now after you've browsed all the new pretty things I want, make sure to give me some sympathy for my little personal turmoil discussed at the end of this post!

1. The new Basic Grey Blitzen paper line.
2. KI's new Chill Out and Christams collection.
3. That new Making Memories Pink Tote set. Maybe I want the green though? hmmmm.
4. The Eiffel Tower stamps from Technique Tuesday.
5. ALL OF THE NEW FONTWERKS STUFF!!!
6. The new scrapworks tailord tags line. Examples are this and this.
7. The new notch tool from Basic Grey
8. The new tag tool from Making Memories.
9. The Hanging by a Thread stamps from Technique Tuesday.
10. The Infinte Wisdom stamps from Technique Tuesday.
11. The new Maya Roads ribbon and large chipboard shapes.
12. The new Cactus Pink line.
13. The new Lil' Davis line.
14. Might as well add the new Imagination Project items as well! Love all three!
Okay, I think that's enough for now. If I've enabled you in anyway, you can thank Rene and Krista for getting me to expand my list with links! LOL!

So, now for my little personal turmoil. Most of you who read my blog and know me IRL, know that we are heading to Europe soon to visit my family. Many of you know what a pain in the you know what (coughcough*ass*coughcough) getting the little ones passport was. Well, today in the mail, I received my shiney brand new passport. I had to both renew my passport and change my name. I don't know why, but I knew something was amiss the minute I opened the envelope. At first, I thought something was wrong with my application, because I originally only saw my expired cancelled passport and my marriage license enclosed. I dug deeper into the envelope and to my relief, found the new passport. I opened it up, and to my horror, my name was mis-spelled! Now, getting my passport has also become a pain-you know where! So, I call the passport agency, and get instructions from the clerk which includes filling out another form, taking new pictures, resending my old passport, my new wrong passport, my marriage license and where to mail it. I go online like she advised and retreived the proper form and filled it out. As I'm reading the small print, it says that it will take 4 to 6 weeks to re-issue the passport, but if I want it expedited, I have to pay another $60! Um...hello! I just paid you $60 to expedite it and it's wrong! So, I call back the call center and talk to another clerk, who then talks to a supervisor, and with great relief, I don't have to pay the $60 to expedite it. I do however have to trek over to San Francisco with all the necessary information. I'm hoping the little ones' comes tomorrow, so if there is a mistake on his, I can do them both at once. Okay, thanks for the sympathy, I feel better now!

Thoughts?

I was reading a Krista's blog yesterday, she was inspired to write down what her thoughts were as she was driving home from work. There is a link on her blog to what inspired her to do this. Anyway, I thought that it was a great idea, so even thought I don't drive to or from work, I decided to note the thoughts I was having while I was running around doing my errands today.

1.) What do I get G for his birthday tomorrow?
2.) Should I go to Stampers Warehouse today?
-A question I will chat about more tomorrow.
3.) Will G and his mother have an argument while she is here?
4.) When in the heck am I going to finish all the projects I have to get done?
5.) I really want a new pair of shoes.
6.) What else do I need to do to get ready for our trip?
7.) Less than 30 days until our long vacation!
8.) I need another massage soon!
9.) I need a haircut and a pedicure....SOON!
10.) Thanks to Krista, now I want an Ipod!
11.) I hope all is well with Jen and MG
12.) I miss scrapping with Rebecca!
13.) I hope all is well with Rene's move!
14.) Did you know it's going to cost us the same amount to send Yukon to the doggy hotel as it cost for our airfare to Europe (one persons ticket)?
15.) When do I get to scrap next?
16.) I hope ER is really good tonight!

Must turn away....Part 2!

Also known as Memory Trends! Yikes, there is so much stuff that I must have! Here is my list....

1. The new Basic Grey Blitzen Line.
2. KI's new Chill out and Christmas Collection.
3. That new Making Memories Pink Tote bag
4. The Paris Stamps from Technique Tuesday.
5. ALL OF THE NEW FONTWERKS STUFF!!!
6. The new scrapworks tailord tags line.
7. The new notch tool from Basic Grey
8. The new tag tool from Making Memories.
-----I'm stopping my list there, because it would be never ending, but I must have these things!!-----------

So much to do.....

All I can think about today, is my huge "To Do" list. Ever since we got our tickets to Europe, my mind has been racing, thinking of all the huge tasks I must get done to prepare for the trip, along with all the daily tasks I must complete for daily living. So today, I decided, that I'm going to put down my huge "To Do" list right here. It's about to be out there for all of you to share in my misery! Oh, by the way, this week, lucky me, I'm planning for G's birthday on Friday, and my MIL is coming to visit.....TOMORROW!

1. Get guest bathroom ready for company.
2. Laundry!
3. Quick dust/vacuum.
4. Finish G's present.
5. Finish gifts for those we are visiting in Europe.
6. Make list of things to pack for trip for everyone.
7. Make list of things we need to purchase before we leave on trip.
8. Find accomodations for Yukonbear.
9. Check on passports (due next week)
10. The Costco run.
11. Buy invitations for J's first birthday party.
12. Make guest list for J's first birthday party.
13. Send invitations out on the day we leave.
14. Take shoes for shoe repair.
15. Finish paperwork for the State Contractor's board.
16. Get information to order flooring for laundryroom from contractor.
.....and the list goes on.......

Must turn away!

Have you ever been watching a movie or a tv show, and just know they are gonna show you something you don't wanna see. So there you are, knowing what's going to happen, and knowing you don't wanna see it. You crouch down in your seat and cover your eyes and wait for someone to tell you it's over. Tell me, how do you do that with a book? I'm currently reading A Million Little Pieces by James Frey which is the current Oprah book club selection. I cannot beleive this book. It is so amazing! I'm only about one fourth of the way through it, and I am hooked. I have never read a book, that was so descriptive, so horrific, and yet so touching all at the same time. I have never read a book where I wanted to cover my eyes and ears until the moment passed, but knew that I had to know what was going on. If you have never read this book, I honestly recommend that you read it. This man goes through an amazing life changing process, and I can't wait to find out the rest of his story. The other thing that amazes me with this book, is that this man has gone through some horrific things (and like I said, I'm only 1/4 of the way through it), but there are so many kind gestures and emotional connections from people who are strangers with this man, and also he without realizing it reaches out to make emotional connections with others. The most touching thing, that I can't wait to find out more about, is that this man, cannot look into his own eyes. He apparently deeply knows, that his eyes are the windows to his soul, but he's afraid of what he might or maybe might not see.......

Definately more to come on this book.

When your having a sucky week....

and nothing seems to be going right, it's time to sit down and remind yourself of the things you have to be thankful for. When you make this list, life doesn't seem quite so sucky anymore. So tonight, I'm making a list of things I am thankful for.

1. My little one (see above), he is such an amazing kid! I am so lucky to get to see this smile everyday! I just love when he wakes up in the morning and I go into his room, he just has lots of smiles to share. What a great way to start any day!

2. My husband! This guy is just too good to be true! While I am a bit biased, he is handsome, sweet, kind, giving, and takes such great care of our family.

3. All of the things our family has been blessed with. We are very fortunate to have what we have.

4. Friends. I am so fortunate to have great friends! It's great to have great friends to share the good times and the bad times with.

5. Our great family!

6. My Mint Mocha Chip Frappacinos!

7. The joy of sharing!

8. The ability to read and get lost in a good book!

A Sucky Day....

What a sucky day today has been. I've been feeling a bit run-over lately, but today has been the worst. Last night, I spent about 4 hours trying to get our flight to Paris situated. Here is the quick version of my 4 hours of phone time. Before we made reservations for our flight, we called the airline, because we were unable to make arangements for the little one online. It only gave adult tickets. So, we called about having the little one as a lap infant on the flight. They told us to make the reservations online, and then call them to tell them we had a lap infant, and it would be about $100. So, we make our reservations and then I proceed to call the airline to add the little one. Well, the fair for him to ride on my lap is now $200. The airfair for G and I was only $380 each, so not that big of a savings. I get off the phone with them, and chat with my stepmom about it, and we decided that all would be more comfortable if we just book a seat for him for the additional $180. So, I call the airline back, and tell the service representative what I want to do, and she cancels his lap seat, and tells me to make his reservation online and then call them back to tell them it's an infant ticket, not an adult ticket, and all will be fine.....NOT! So, we make his reservation online, and I call in to change him to infant, and the next representative tells me that we shouldn't have done it that way. Yikes! So now, we do have 3 seats, and they are all together and hopefully it will be a pleasant flight, since it took me 4 hours to book. LOL

So, I finally get to sleep at 3am, and still have to be up by 7am, because we have a contractor finally fixing our laundry room! Yay for the fixing! Hopefully, today was the last time that I will have to spend 3 hours at the laundromat. We are still trying to get the little ones passport squared away, but I'm saving that long story for when it's finally sorted out and not stressing me out. It seems that this week, I have no energy and no desire to really do anything. Suddenly with everything going on this week, I am really uninspired. :(

A Very Productive Day.....

Today has been a very productive day around here. First, we have made our reservations to go to Europe!! Wahoooo!!! We are flying to Paris at the beginning of the November! We also have someone starting tomorrow to put our laundry room back together....FINALLY! The feud with the plumber is far from over, but we are working on that one. G and I went out to lunch today, and then headed for the Halloween store. The little one has his first costume. We tried it on him at the store, and everyone who saw it, thought he was so adorable! He is going to be Tigger, since he's such a bouncy kid! Won't that be a great photo opportunity for mommy!

Tomorrow starts the big run-a-round to get more stuff ready for our trip. I need to go pick up the little one's birth certificate-(it really sucks that you don't get a complimentary one when their born). Then we have to go get passport photos taken, since he needs his first one, and mine alas has expired. Tomorrow should be tons of fun! LOL

Are you ready for the new episode of Laguna Beach....I am! I have no idea why I am so hooked on this show though....maybe someday I will figure it out. I am going to scrap tonight too! I have completed a few projects towards my spending challenge! I completed 2 almost 3 circle journals, and I completed the card kit I got from QVC, so I am well on my way to the 10 projects! Enjoy the Hillary Duff video!

Time to relax.

Whoever thought that being a SAHM was all soap operas and bon bons should think again! I can't believe how much the days just run together and each day seems strangely the same. Don't get me wrong, I would not trade being at home with the little one for anything. I would still make the same choice to leave my job and be at home. I think that my biggest problem, is that I don't really want G to help me when he gets home from work. I feel like, he gets up early and goes out there to do his job so that I can have the luxury of staying home with the little one, so he should be able to relax when he gets home and not have to worry about the housework, the little one, or anything. It makes me so crazy, that I feel guilty when he does help....which is all the time. He always wants to feed the little one when he gets home, or he's vacuuming, or doing dishes, or something. When I tell him he doesn't have to do it, he tell me he does, because I need a break too. What a guy! Nonetheless, I still feel guilty and sometimes.....inadequate. Like, I should have had all that crap done, so it wasn't there for him to even do. I know this is crazy, but that's how I feel. Anyway, I'll have to give this some more thought, and figure out how to make myself, a) more productive so I get more done while G is at work. b) not feel so guilty when he does help. c) find a way to go to bed earlier -I'm such a night owl. d) find more time to scrap!

So, I figured out how to add a video, and this song always makes me think about a relaxing vacation....I thought I'd share!

Run out and get your Airborne today!

Everyone I know seems to be getting the sickies lately. In our house, both the little one and I have been suffering with lots of congestion. The only one who seems to have avoided the ickies is G. He's been taking his Airborne everyday. This stuff really works. I wish I had taken it, when I first noticed the little one getting the sniffles. So here is your PSA for the day. Go out and get your Airborne, and when you feel the slightest inkling of the ickies, take it! If your planning to travel on an airplane, or know your going to be cooped up with a large crowd where their might be people with the ickies, take it! You won't regret it!

So, what do you do when your horn starts going off at 5am?

Friday night, I'm all snug as a bug in my comfy bed with an icky headcold coming on. I took some medince and slept like a dream! At 5 am, I hear this noise, and can't quite place it. I was sitting up on the side of the bed, just listening. I was trying to figure out what it was. Was it a smoke alarm? Then G woke up, and asked me what that noise was. In a foggy haze, I said I didn't know, I was trying to figure it out. I got up and went towards the little ones room, but the noise faded as I got closer to his room. I went back to our room, and could still hear it, G told me to check the bathroom....so, I opened the bathroom door, and nothing. Then in dawned on us! It's a car horn. I open the garage door...nope, it's not my car. Now mind you, this wasn't a horn like someone was pressing the horn and going beep beep beep, this was beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep constantly. Well, both G and I go to the front door and look outside, and we don't see anyone, just hear this obnoxious horn blaring. We were trying to figure out which car it was, when I asked G, why a horn would be blaring like that with no one out there. That's when he freaked me out! He said, well, it could be some drunk passed out on their horn, or it could be someone is dead in their car! WHAAAAT? S0, we come back in the house, G puts on a pair of sweats and grabs the flashlight. He's going to investigate. Me, I grab the phone. I'm ready to call 911 when he figures out what it is. As I get to the door, G is coming back inside, and what do I see? One of our neighbors driving the offending car off horn blaring. So, G and I climb back into our warm cozy bed, which isn't quite as toasty as it was before. We get all nice and comfy, when.....the horn is back! I don't know what this guy thought when he was driving it off. Did he think, that as he drove (through the entire neighborhood, waking up even more people) that the horn would stop? I get up, to see what the heck he's doing now, and I see him walking around the car, looking all over the engine trying to figure out what to do. Finally! He figured it out! When your car horn starts blaring at 5 am, you don't drive the car off, you disconnect the battery! Just a little Public Service Announcement in case it ever happens to you!

A little more about my spending challenge.....

I've been thinking a lot lately about my lack of creativity, and my mound of supplies. I've also been thinking a lot about all the supplies that I am still wanting to buy. So, as I've said before, I've challenged myself to a spending freeze until I do 10 projects. Well, I already know that tomorrow, I am going to fall of the wagon. I'm headed for the the garage tomorrow to scrap my little heart out with some old friends and some new ones. I know once I get there, that there will be something that I just have to have. With this being said, I was catching up on my blog reading and went to read Jen's blog. She brought up my spending challenge, and found something on Kristina's blog who is the owner of 2 peas which was very insightful. Here is the blog from 2peas if your interested in reading the whole thing and her response to a comment someone made. I have thought about this so often, it seems like every week, there is some new latest and greatest product release. Something new that I am just salivating to get my hands on. I cannot for the life of me think of another industry that turns over it's new product so fast. It seems like every other industry has a "season change". For example, clothing, you know your going to get Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall. There doesn't though seem to be this same buzz about the newest stuff every season though. It seems more like every season we buy a few of the pieces being offered and move on. We're not banging on Macy's door, just yelling "I MUST HAVE ALL THE NEW CLOTHES YOU HAVE!" Eyeglasses, seem to have a season too, new styles tend to come out at the beginning of the year....just when your vision insurance has kicked in again and your ready for that new pair of glasses. It seems like this hobby of ours has continuous new seasons, every day, we are scoping our Target, Wal-Mart, Michaels, and especially our Local Scrapbook Stores, just wanting to be the first one to get all the new stuff. We can't just buy a few of the new things either, we all seem to be on the must have it all list! No wonder the LSS's can't survive. What kind of a cash flow must you have to always be ordering new stuff. With this type of industry, you certainly can't stock much inventory that will sit around for awhile. No wonder, there is never enough of all the new stuff. Not everyone is getting it, because the LSS can't take a chance on having too much leftover after the hype has passed. This is why people are making a killing on ebay! Since you can't find the item you want anymore at the LSS, you head over to ebay and get in a bidding war for the latest and greatest with your fellow scrapbooker. It just seems so crazy! There has got to be a way to slow this cycle down. I think the industry as a whole is going to have to figure something out.

So, back to my challenge. After reading Jen's blog, I certainly feel more inspired to use my stash. I'm sticking to my challenge, (even if I'm falling off the wagon tomorrow for a bit) but I'm adding a new twist. Not only am I going to have a spending freeze challenge (after my break tomorrow), but I'm giving myself 2 weeks to get 10 projects done. Goodness knows I have quite a few projects waiting for me to finish up, and plenty of sketches of layouts I've done to get made.

I am proud of myself though, I have not bought a scrapbook related item in 2 weeks! Thankfully, I did have a few items on order that were placed before the challenge, so I still had stuff coming in the mail! All of those have been received, so after tomorrow, it's cold turkey!
YIKES!!!!

$34.95!

Hey everyone! We're back from Vegas! What a whirlwind trip that was. I'll have to fill you all in on the fun of the trip after I get some of my pictures back. I just wanted to check in and share a little story from our trip.

So, it's Sunday night, our last night in Vegas. We are headed out to have a nice buffet dinner with two other couples. One of the couples and G and I decide to head over to the Rio casino early to watch a little bit of the Raider game (my poor Raiders). Anyway, we were supposed to meet two other couples at the buffet, but somehow we missed them and they started without us about 45 minutes before we got there. Since one of the guys called someone from the other group, they asked their waitress if she could hold a table a few tables away from theirs for us. They were a group of four and we were a group of six. Their waitress said no problem! So the six of us get in the plentiful buffet line, pay our $22.95 each, and wait in another plentiful line to be seated. As we get to the front, one of G's friend tells the hostess, who come to find out is also the manager, that our friends are seated over in that area, and the waitress was holding a table for us. She tells us, that if we want to sit in the same section as our friends, the dinner is going to cost us $34.95 more! Now mind you, we are not sitting at their table, we are not sitting right next to them, we are just asking to be in the same section! They tell us, that even if we are not at the same table or even next to each other, if we are seated in the same waitresses section, then we have to pay the extra gratuity! I couldn't believe this! I was flabbergasted! I guess the waitress had already warned our friends who were already there, that it might happen like that, but that she would talk to the seating hostess to try to accomodate us without the gratuity. So nice of her.....she was heading for a huge tip for being nice.

Now, I completely understand the concept of large parties at tables and then the wait person gets stiffed for having to work very hard to serve a large party. This however was a buffet......except for non-alcoholic drinks, I had to serve myself! Where's my tip? As G's friend R said, I fully expected that once I crossed the line to be seated, that the manager was going to grab me by my ankles and shake me out for any coins or money I might have left in my pockets! Okay, just a little vent, I promise something more substantial tomorrow!

Why do I even try?

I am so not good at no spending challenges. Now, that I have not been shopping for scrapbook supplies, my spending has just moved to the shoe spending category. I picked up these really cute BCBG shoes today. I'd been eyeing them on ebay for a few days, and when they were still under $40, I couldn't resist. Too bad they won't be here in time for my trip to Vegas.

Speaking of my no scrap spending challenge, how is everyone doing that decided to try? I'm not doing so well at it, I had ordered a sizzix die for the large album cover and insert, and paid for that today, so I'm not sure, that whether it counts or not, because I ordered it before I challenged myself. I'll let my fellow challengee's decide. Regardless, I'm still not doing so well at it, since I have not completed many projects. Getting ready for this trip, just has been a lot of work, so no time to scrap. I'm promising myself 4 hours tomorrow after G gets home from work.

The little one and I are going to take Rebecca to lunch tomorrow! I feel like I haven't seen her forever, and I know she's been crazy busy with work starting and with the boys and all their activities....especially that baseball.

Blog Challenge! 10 memories from my school years.

Wow! This is going to take me back. It's been so long since I've been in school! Let's see what I can come up with. These are definately not in any order of importance.

1. I remember in junior high, I was an 8th grade cheerleader. We were supposed to be at a tournament at the high school. I was the only one who showed up. I don't know how, but I was brave enough to sit with another group of cheerleaders from another school and cheer our team on!

2. I remember during my senior year of high school, I went to my first party with alcohol. (I have a strict Filipino father, so I didn't go much of anywhere unless my parents called and spoke to the adult who was going to be present) My friend bought me a 4 pack of wine coolers which I drank all of and would not share. I remember hiding in a closet when the sherrifs showed up. The sherriff who was also the coach for the boys basketball team (who knew me because I was a cheerleader still) recognized me and laughed and closed the door without getting my friends or I in trouble. I did get a lecture later and was told if he caught me again he was going to tell my parents.

3. I remember my friend Colin DeBre, who had to move under not so happy circumstances during our freshman year. I've missed her ever since....sure wish I could find her.

4. I remember being in the Sebastopol Apple Blossom queen competition with my friend Dawn Sirstad (wish I could find her too). We had so much fun doing all the events leading up to the crowning of the queen and the local parade and festival. I didn't win, but I was first runner-up, which was called the Apple Blossom princess....so you can call me princess! LOL

5. I remember my first crush that started in junior high school and carried through high school.

6. I remember being in a drama production where we lip synced to different music artists. I lip synced to Whitney Houston, and because I was such a good girl in school, one of my teachers asked me if I even knew what I was lip syncing about. (The song had something to do with sex).

7. I remember the first and last time I was a bully. I got into a fight with a girl who everyone picked on. I don't remember her last name, but I remember her first...Althea..if your out there, I'm sorry for being a bitch.

8. I remember the students we lost to drunk driving accidents.

9. I remember my favorite teacher...Mr. Miller. I still miss seeing him! During my senior year, I was a teachers assistant in his class for at least 3 periods of the day.

10. I remember my first french kiss. It happened after school, I was a freshman and he was a junior. It was near the gym and locker rooms, because he was going to football practice, and I was going to cross country running practice. It was the grossest thing ever, I had to wash my mouth out in the locker room right after.

I remember lots of friends! I remember wishing I could grow up and be an adult, but now that I am, I really miss those carefree fun days. If you know any of the following people, let me know, because they were my friends and since high school ended we have lost touch, and I miss them and would love to find them again.
Dawn Sirstad
Colin DeBre
Laura Pruitt
Brandy Lucas
Bob Geisinger
Josefina Villacana
and anyone else from El Molino H.S class of 1988

Cleaning out my closet!

Oh boy! I'm so lucky! I got to clean out my closet today! WAHOOOO! It was that time. I share the walk in closet with G, and he is a neat freak! Our closet looks so neat and tidy on one side, and like a bomb exploded on the other. Needless to say, it was time to clear the debris. I packed up all my lovely maternity wear with all of the little one's clothes that are too small. I hope I get to wear it again in the next 12 to 18 months. This made room for all the clothes that I have been able to start wearing again, not to mention some of the new stuff I've collected. Everything is finally hung up and folded and put in some sensible order again. I tried on shoes that I haven't been able to wear in ages, first, because 3 inch heels and pregnancy don't go together, second, because carrying around an infant and 3 inch heels don't go together, and third, because I've had no place to wear them for ages. I had to get this done, because I need to start thinking of what I'm going to take to Las Vegas. Oh my land! I didn't even realize just how much stuff I have! Don't tell G I said that though! I love the stuff in my closet, from my cute little outfits, my adorable little shoes, like these in the coffee color by BCBG! I wanna look cute and sassy while DH and I are getting some R&R in Vegas. Yeah right....I thought I was gonna get some rest.....

Turns out, I might be playing softball with the team! I think they might be better off with Caspar the friendly ghost playing instead of me! I can't even remember the last time I played softball! I know I remember that I can catch a ball, but I don't think I'll be hitting any home runs (at least not on the softball field *wink*wink*). I hope I can have a designated hitter, because they can just count me as a strike before I even walk up to the plate! I'm gonna be so embarassed!

I've already scoped out wear the nearest Starbucks is in relation to our hotel! I wish I had thought of that before I booked our hotel....

Blah.....

I'm just feeling blah this week. There is nothing exciting going on at all. I hope all this blah wears off before I head for Las Vegas. I think I'm just feeling blah, because, I feel so uncreative right now and I miss some of my friends who I haven't seen for awhile. I think I'm also feeling a bit nervous about leaving my little man while we are in Vegas. I know he will be very well cared for, one of my friends whom I admire beyond words is going to stay with him while we are gone. I am so grateful to my amazing friend for this too. It's just, that this will be the first time I'll be away from him for more than just a few hours. I know I'm gonna cry. I can't imagine a day without him! I know though, that this will be good for my relationship with my G though. Things are fine, but we need to spend a little time focused on each other and nurturing our relationship. We definately have not been alone since the little one was conceived! LOL So, I have a lot to be thankful to this friend for. I have to thank her for caring for my little man, the most precious gift I have, I have to thank her for being my friend, she is amazing, and I have to thank her when 30 years from now I'm still happily married, that she helped!

Nothing Exciting....

So it was a holiday weekend, and we didn't do anything exciting. I always thought I was the only one not doing anything exciting before today though.

I did get to sleep in a bit today, since G was off. He got up with the little one fore the morning feeding! YAY! When I did finally get up, I took a nice relaxing shower, and decided that a holiday would probably be a great day to go to the laundromat!! You all know the story about my new found love for the laundromat. I figured, it's a holiday, nobody else will be at the laundromat. I was so wrong. My original thought, that I would not have to fight for a washer or a dryer was so wrong. The place was PACKED! I guess I wasn't the only loser with no great plans for the holiday.

After I got back from the laundromat and relaxed a bit, I got a bug to do some more cleaning.....so, I cleaned out the refrigerator. As you can tell, I didn't have any glamorous plans, but I was very productive! :)

Anyway, still working on our trip to Sin City. Hopefully we have a babysitter for the little one, otherwise, I am flying to Portland to have my sister-in-law watch him for the weekend, or we are taking him with us. I'm so torn with this trip now. I really want to go and enjoy a fun and hopefull somewhat romantic weekend with G. We haven't had that since before the little one came. Also, it would be very dificult to do much in Sin City with a little one. On the otherhand, I haven't been away from my baby for more than a few hours since he arrived. I think I'm going to be a wreck!

I wanna be a kid again!

I was reading Rebecca's blog last night and about her son's little problem with lunch and it donned on me, that I wanna be a kid again! Kids have such a way with logic, that it works in any situation! I love his idea, that because the sandwich was smashed, it was smaller, thus not as filling! This would do wonders for my diet! So, in the spirit of kids, I'm making my list for why I wanna be a kid again! These are in no particular order of course!

1.) Smashed food = less food = less me in terms of fat!

2.) No worries about money...that's what parents are for!

3.) Teachers are much easier to deal with than bosses!

4.) If I don't clean the house, someone else will do it, and the only thing I'll get is grounded!

5.) I'd have someone to cook good meals for me again!

6.) Daddy....Will you take me shopping? Please?

7.) Taxes? What are taxes?

8.) Nothing bad can happen, I'm a kid and I'm invincible!

9.) Everything is going to turn out exactly like my dreams. If I want it, I'm gonna get it.

10.) Brand new clothes and shoes for every season! School shopping rocks!

Well, here I am back in reality, and now my job is to foster this love for being a kid in my little one. Maybe I can find a way to make him appreciate the worry free life of a kid! Wish me luck!

There sure are a lot of pots and kettles in this world!

Everyone has heard the phrase about the pot calling the kettle black right? While I was reading my favorite message board, I’ve seen this phrase and other similar ones thrown around left and right. It got me to thinking. There sure are a lot of pots and kettles out there. It really seems that in every aspect of our lives, there is a ton of finger pointing going on.

What really got me started on this was a post about people of a certain religion not following the golden rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. (Matthew 7:12) What really struck me is that this person is spouting off the golden rule, but I guess she forgot to read everything else in that chapter of the Bible. For example: Do not judge or you too will be judged? For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. (Matthew 7:1-5) Then in private, when I called her on that point, she came back with….yep, you guessed it, more finger pointing.

It is always someone else’s fault! I didn’t really mean to pull this one person out and use her as the example, but it is a prime example of what’s going on in the world today. Nobody wants to accept responsibility for anything. If someone loses their job, it was because their boss was an arse, or they didn’t treat them fairly, it’s never because they were not doing their job. If someone is ordering something and they wait until the last minute before they need it, it’s still the provider’s fault that they didn’t get it in time, forget the fact that the provider clearly told them it was x number of days and they were leaving in x minus five days.

This is clearly going on with the horrible hurricane Katrina efforts. Everyone is pointing a finger at someone else about all the chaos and human and animal devastation. It’s the Presidents fault for not getting help there more quickly. It’s the residents fault for not evacuating when they were told to. Back and forth, it’s not helping anything. Clearly there have been plenty of mistakes on both sides of the coin, but is it really the time for political posturing? Should the democrats and republicans be spending all this time pointing fingers at one another? I think that at this point everyone just needs to pull together and take care of the people and the animals. G might be heading down to NO to help with the cleanup and rescue. I’m not real overjoyed by this, but if he can help and they need to send him, then so be it. The thing that scares me the most is all the lawlessness going on. I am totally behind them for going into abandoned stores and taking food, clothing, blankets, and the things they need to survive, but HELLO, what are you going to do with that television or laptop computer? I know that people are in desperate times and want help immediately, but with the magnitude of issues and people who need attention, it’s going to take time.

Anyway, back to my original topic, I am by no means the perfect little angel, when it comes to this pot and kettle business. I am truly trying to recognize though when I do my own finger pointing and make sure I am taking responsibility for what is mine. So, sometimes, I’m the pot, sometimes I’m the kettle, and I’d just like to say to all you other pots and kettles…..Hello!

I'm failing miserably!

Okay, so a few days ago, I posted that I was challenging myself to a spending freeze. Can you say.....COMPLETE FAILURE! I must start over! Of course, that won't be to hard, as I have yet to complete anything. I have however been shopping. I just can't stop buying all the pretty scrap stuff! I had to go to Target, for some supplies for J, so what must I go look for? Yep, the Crazy Life line by Heidi Swapp. I didn't go to hog wild over this stuff. I got a frame kit, a couple of the plastic letter sets and some chipboard letters. The tapes were really cute, but Thursday is now spelled Thrusday. I also picked up some Making Memories letter stickers to match a paper set I already have. Then today, I placed an order for some of the new Daisy D's French Market papers and some Fontwerks stuff from Scrapgal. So......I'm starting over again. NO MORE BUYING until I do 10 projects!

Can I use the fact that I'm giving up soda as an excuse for losing my mind and shopping?

I don't know what has gotten into me lately, but I just have this huge desire to go shop wild! I've been craving a trip to Ikea , I want some more new shoes, I want some more new clothes, I want some cute new lacey things, and I wanna go make-up shopping too! I must fight this urge to shop!! I'm hoping to go and get a few new things before we head off to Vegas -if we end up going. Hopefully tomorrow, I will be able to print boldly across the top of my blog that I am in fact headed for SIN CITY! Not much sinning will be going on with a 9 month old in tow though.

I can't believe my little J is 9 months old today!!! Where is all the time going? I look at him in his crib and just can't believe how big he is getting!

Just Thinking......

There is so much stuff going on in the world, in the nation, in this state, in my community and in my house, that I just decided to make a list of the things I'm thinking about today.

1. Hurricane Katrina and her aftermath. Everytime I hear a news story about a family who has lost everything or seen a loved one die or be swept away, I just want to cry. This is what I've mostly been thinking about I'm praying for everyone affected by this.

2. I'm praying for all the emergency workers trying to help with the aftermath of the storm. How difficult it must be for them, to know they've also lost everything, having to move their families out of the areas and go out there to work and see all the devastation. It really upsets me when the public has badmouthed some of their actions. There must be so much for them to do, and they must be so overextended. They can only do what they can do, and I hope in the long term, those needing help will get the help they need, but can be patient while these workers do their best in a tough situation.

3. I am so thankful for all of my blessing! Family, friends, and all of the things I am fortunate enough to have.

4. On a more selfish note, I'm trying to get all my trips for the rest of the year planned, before the prices start jumping based on fuel costs.

5. Taking action and getting things done!

6. I heard today, that I'm probably 10lbs heavier than I would be if I didn't drink my soda pop. I've gone cold turkey today.....no more soda (at least not on a daily basis) for me!

7. Really wanting my laundry room back........

8. When should we try for baby #2? Should we wait until after we go to Europe later this year? Should we get started in Vegas later this month? Hmmmm.....

9. Who the heck are these kids on that My Sweet 16 show? Who spends $200,000 on a 16 year olds party? I guess it wouldn't be so bad spending that much, if these kids were not so nasty and disrespectful! Oh my gosh! If I had ever spoken to my parents the way some of these kids do, I would not be alive today. Isn't someone teaching these kids how to respect others? Yikes!

10. Why am I so addicted to reality TV?

11. I bought these cute Franco Sarto shoes the other day for 1/2 off at Macy's. Now I want to go out and buy even more shoes! I love shoes!

10 Places I Want to Visit!

So the challenge this week is to post 10 places I want to visit. For the most part this post will be very easy for me, because I have often thought and dreamed of the places I would love to visit.

1.) Venice, Italy. This is my favorite place on the entire planet! I've already been twice, but if I could I would live there. This beautiful little city has so much character, and just sitting in San Marco Square day or night listening to the beautiful music of the bands playing is amazing!

2.) New York City. I've never been to New York City before, and would love to visit.

3.) Amsterdam, Netherlands.

4.) London, United Kingdom.

5) Barcelona, Spain.

6.) Vatican City, Italy. Okay, so I've been here before too, but just the peace you feel here is so amazing! And, who could resist the additional trip to Rome!

7.) Singapore. Should taken my chance to visit here while my parents were living there. I'm such a dork sometimes!

8.) Japan.

9.) Washington D.C. Who wouldn't want to visit the capital of the U.S.

10.) Okay, my last destination would be a frivolous one. I want to go on a shopping spree in Milan, with no spending limit!


Well, now that I've listed all these places, I have realized that I really need to start playing the lottery and win! I've also realized, that not only do I want to visit all these places, but so many more as well, and I also want to return to many of the places I've already been!

P.S. Thank you for the Happy Anniversary wishes!

They all mean so much! As I said before, I am so blessed. Thank you also, to my parents for the great big HUGE baloon bouquet and to Jennifer and Jerry Aquirre for the beautiful e-card! Just knowing you were all thinking of us and celebrating with us meant a whole lot!

Do You Say Thank You Everyday?

I am so blessed. I have a wonderful husband, a beautiful son, a great dog, a nice home to live in, great friends, and food on my table. Sometimes I just have to sit back and realize just how fortunate I am. Sometimes, although I hate to admit this, instead of sitting back and being thankful for what I have, I spend time wishing for things I don't have. I'm really trying to make it a point everyday when I wake up to be thankful for the new day and everything I have been blessed with.

I've really been thinking about this today, because of a mother's story about her young son being so sick and does not have much time left. My heart is so broken for the pain she must be feeling. I don't know this mother, but I can't imagine how torn she must be. I have been thinking about her young son constantly for the last few days. Some of the things that really got me is that during some rough and painful time, he cried out that he wanted Jesus to be by him. What an amazing request! I honestly believe that the spirit in each of us, knows when our time has come. When it is time to stop fighting and to be free in our faith. What a wonderful thing to know, that this child knows that Jesus will be with him and that they will make the journey together!

I have been fighting my own issues with church lately. My husband and I were drawn to a church nearby after hearing the Pastor speak. What an amazing gift this Pastor has, to be able to teach so much about Jesus and what it really means to be Christian. Before the little one was born, I felt compelled to have a meeting with him to discuss my own "demons". I knew that this Pastor could help me figure out how to leave these issues behind and be free to bear good fruit. Well, my little one made an early appearance before the meeting could take place. These were things, I had never been compelled to discuss with any Priest, Pastor or religious affiliate ever. I haven't been compelled to do so again yet. Unfortunately the Pastor I speak of is no longer at the local church. Now, I have been really longing for my roots in the Catholic church. I'm also longing to hear the word of God and to learn from the bible study class I was attending at the other church. I'm so torn, but know that I need to find a "home" for my family and our spirits. I want my little one to know Jesus and to know that he can count on him.

So, with all this being said, I want to say thank you. I want to thank God for the blessings he has shown and given me. I want to thank my husband for being so amazing and supportive. I want to thank my little one for just being my little one. I want to thank my friends for their friendship and support. And, I want everyone to know that I am so thankful for everything I have both inmaterial and material. Most of all I am thankful that we have love and health.

There are a few prayers I would like to add to this post. For those in my family who are sick, I am praying everyday for your health and well being. For my friends who have needs, I am praying that your needs are met in great abundance! If I can help in any other way besides prayer, all you have to do is call me and I'll be there.

What if the Hokey-Pokey is really what it's all about?

Just a random question to throw out there for you. Things are getting pretty crazy around here right now. We are trying to plan our trip to Vegas next month, we're trying to plan our trip to Switzerland later this year, and we are trying to get our laundry room taken care of.

First off, the laundry room. The idiot plumber who caused all of our problems finally responded to my letter. He wants another plumber to come out and take a look at the pipe. Well, that's all fine and dandy, so this other guy is coming out on Monday. I guess he doesn't give a rip that 2 other plumbers and our insurance company says he didn't follow protocol and his work caused the damage. I guess anything to prolong paying us. I'm not going to let this go on much longer. He'd better figure out his course of action ASAP, because by the end of next week, if he hasn't tried to resolve this with us, I'm heading to the courthouse!

Greg is supposed to play in a Baseball tournament in Vegas next month. We'd really been debating about whether to go or not because of our laundry room fiasco, but we really want to go. So this evening, I've been trying to find the best deals. I also have to find out if we are taking the little one with us, or if my Mother-In-Law will be coming to stay with him. Hopefully we'll have our trip all mapped out by Sunday.

We're going to Europe later this year to visit my parents. I am so EXCITED!!! It will be almost a year since I've seen them! They were here for a month when the little one came along and I miss them so much. See the photo at the top of this entry? See the tall apartment building overlooking the lake and the city? That's where my parents live! It's so beautiful! We are hoping that the weather will be okay, and we will get to take the little one to see our Italian Family....The Tinozzi's. When my parents were working in Italy, they rented an apartment from this family. They are such wonderful people. Can't wait to see them again. I know we'll go to Amadeus for the greatest Italian food ever too! I wish we could make time to go to Venice, since this is my favorite place on the entire planet, but I think we'll have to save that for the next time we go. We also hope to tour more of Switzerland, and at least see the plot of land where the apartment my parents are going to buy will be. We also have plans to see Germany and possibly Amsterdam in the Netherlands. I'm so looking forward to getting away!

Anyway, with all that is going on, and all that needs to be done, at least there is something to look forward to. But, it made me think, we run around trying to get all this stuff done, What if the Hokey-Pokey is really what it's all about?

I've Been Tagged!

And I don't mean by some crazy street gang with spray paint! So, Syliva tagged me, and since I'm celebrating my anniversary tonight **wink wink**, I thought this would be something fun and easy to post this evening.

1. I'm very picky about my books. I want a "virgin" book. What this means, is that I will always take the book at the back or bottom of the stack, just so I can "think" I was the first one to crack it open. I think this comes from my hatred of the musty smell of library books.

2. I used to work at Burger King, then I traded up for a job at Baskin and Robbins.

3. I didn't get my drivers license until I was 18.

4. In bed, I must be on the side farthest away from the door.

5. When it comes to my favorite ice cream, I must have Baskin and Robbins Mint Chocolate Chip. When it comes to this, there are no brand substitutions!

This was fun! I think for a later post, I'm going to try to come up with 100 random facts about me. I saw this on someone elses blog before, and thought it was really cool. But, for now, since I didn't know all the people on the email list I got, I'm gonna have to tag Lara! Lara! Tag Your It!

Happy Love Day!!!

I've been married for 3 years now!! Time has just flown by, and so many things have happened to us. I still remember my wedding like it was yesterday though! I had waited so long to find the perfect man! We have gone through some major milestones in the last 3 years. The last three years have inlcuded some of our best moments and some of our saddest moments in our entire relationship. First, we got pregnant in 2003 and unfortunately miscarried the pregnancy. That was one of the hardes things ever, but my husband was such an amazing support. I think the hardest part for both of us through this was that he was at the academy for some training. Something he had worked so hard for. While I wanted him next to me every moment, I didn't want 1 bad thing turn into 2 bad things. Then we experienced the loss of my grandfather (on my mothers side). Again, my husband was really a supportive rock for not only me, but for my aunts and my grandmother as well. Like I said though, these last three years have also been filled with lots of joyous occasions too. First, hubby worked really hard to make it through the special training is was attending and passed wtih flying colors! He amazes me at how he can work for something and never give up. Then we bought a home together. It's been a lot of work making it ours, but it's getting there. The most joyous thing that has occured during our first 3 years of marriage, was the birth of our first child, Joshua. What an amazing 8 months it's been since he arrived. I am so blessed to have a wonderful husband and a beautiful son. I don't want to be greedy or anything, but I hope that the blessings will continue and we will be blessed with more additions to our family. I am forever thankful that I met my husband and that he chose me to spend his life with.

The No Scrap Shopping Challenge!

Well, after putting away all my wonderful buys from the Scrapbook Expo, I'm looking around my scrap space going......HOLY COW! Wow, do I have a lot of stuff! I can never give up the shopping, but I'm gonna have to make a dent in my stash. I have challenged myself to a spending freeze. This spending freeze has no time limit, but a production challenge that must be met before the freeze is lifted. The challenge I have made to myself is that I must complete 10 layouts or projects before I can spend any more money on scrap supplies. What do 10 projects equal. I could just count items, but there has to be more of a challenge than that. Otherwise, I could just make 10 cards and be done. Not much of a dent would be made with 10 itty bitty cards. So, if I choose to make cards with my stuff, I must make 30 for it to count 3 cards= 1 layout/project. I have some pre-made kits as well, for example, at Expo, I bought the Scrapbook in a Bag kit.....for it to count, I must complete the entire thing! Complete means complete too, if it's a layout, then it must include it's journaling, if it's a kit, the kit must have the pictures and any journaling included.

There is one exception to my spending freeze. There are some items that were supposed to be in before my freeze kicked in. I'm still getting those when they arrive! I've saved my Scrapbook Expo earnings for just that purpose!

Anyone interested in joining me?

The Fun of Doing Nothing!

This last week was so busy! I don't remember the last time I had that much running around to do. Wednesday, I helped set up the Autumn Leaves booth at the Scrapbook Expo. It was a lot of work, but it was so fun to get to see all the work that goes into setting up that expo. It was also so much fun to meet Lori and Jessica. I'm such a dork for not taking any pictures with these awesome gals! Thursday was my shop till you drop day. I love checking out all the scrapbook supplies in one place! I got so many cool things, that I can't even list them all. What great retail therapy that was! I also helped Em out with the two Autumn Leaves classes she was teaching, what a trooper, to get the class information just a few hours before the class, and then just go out and do a great job! Friday, was another shop day, and I was signed up to take one class. I had Josh with me on Thursday and Friday, and on Friday Laurie G. was kind enough to take my little one, so I could enjoy my class.....but, like a dork, I didn't even check the time and missed the class! I helped out in the Autumn Leaves classes again. This was fun, because there were these two ladies, that I got to spend some extra time helping them with their project. I think they really enjoyed the class and learned a lot! They were super sweet and nice too! After the expo, I went to pick up Rebecca and then went to crop at the garage. This was very unproductive in the scrap department. The garage was super packed! We had tons of fun and learned lots of fun "secrets" about eachother. The word "skank" will always make me giggle now!

Saturday! Wow! Saturday was a super busy day. Our friends agreed to watch Josh while I went to work expo, and Greg was working. He had a super busy day! He went to Chuck E. Cheese and Toys R' Us with them. He also got to play with his buddy Kayden. I worked at the expo all day. It was Jessica and I in the Autumn Leaves booth, and we were having a bunch of laughs! She is such an awesome gal! Rebecca came up with crackalakin', but Jessica and I have Crackalicious! I really wanted to go to the slumber crop at the garage on Saturday, but I was super exhausted! Besides, I had to be home to watch Big Brother 6! Sunday, I had to run all the errends that didn't get done during the expo, so it was off to Target and Safeway. Of course there was a stop at the garage to check in with the slumber crop gals. Looks like I missed a lot of fun, but at least I didn't have the pixie stick hangover.

Today, I did nothing! Sometimes, I just really love these days, where you just get out of bed and hang out in your pj's until whenever. I also got to catch up with my favorite residents of Genoa City. I hadn't watched Young in the Restless all week! Today was the first time also, that I was able to take a nap when Josh took his! Two hours of pure sleeping in the afternoon bliss! The other nice thing about staying home and doing nothing, is that I didn't spend any money! I bet my debit card is happy to be getting a rest!

My Grandparents House.

I'm starting to feel very weepy right now about this home. This home was my grandparents (on my dad's side). Since my grandmother passed away about 10 years ago, this home has belonged to my dad and my uncle. They've hung on to it for a very long time, and even though I knew that both of my grandparents were gone, it was kind of comforting knowing that their house was still there. Over the last 10 years, I've driven by it just to look and remember many times. I have so many memories in this house, and I can remember so many details of how the house originally looked and certain things my grandparents always did here. When I was very young, we lived 3 doors down from them. My dad and my uncle have finally decided it is time to sell the home. For the last 6 months, my aunt, uncle and cousin have been working diligently to get this home in selling shape. They also hired a interior designer to come in and "stage" the home. While it looks beautiful, it was very hard to walk in and see everything so different. When I used to drive by, I could still envision everything exactly as it had always been. The exact pattern of the tile in the kitchen, where my grandparents bed was placed, the green shag carpet, even how the jelly jar glasses (you remember the ones from the 70's, where the jelly came in jars that had characters on them and after the jelly was gone, you used the jar as a glass) were stored in the cabinet to the right of the sink. I remember looking out the front window into the street, waiting for my grandfather to come back from doing the grocery shopping. Equally as odd, was attending the open house that was planned and seeing people come in and out deciding if they wanted to make this their home. I just can't imagine anyone else ever living there. I've spent 2 afternoons there recently taking photos of the things that are still original. I've taken pictures of door knobs, the kitchen sink tile and faucet, the address sign, the driveway heading into the garage and back, the back patio and the back door and stairs. I even took pictures of the fixtures that used to support the clothesline in the back. I really need to get these photos developed so that if I need to retake any, I will have the opportunity.

Even though my grandfather passed away when I was only 13, I still miss him terribly, but I also feel very close to him at the same time. Even though it was so long ago, I can remember so many vivid details about things he used to do. I don't think anyone really believed I could remember these things until my uncle and I were talking about the light green with white on the inside coffee cup. Who remembers that? Anyway, I have tons of things I think about where my grandfather is concerned, and he really deserves his own entry.

So now, I know that the sale of this home is inevitable, but I still can't fathom it. I know when it is finally real, I am going to bawl my eyes out. I guess I hope that whoever buys it will treat it with the love and care my grandparents did. I also hope that they will have as many beautiful memories there as I do. Can I also hope that they are people my grandparents would have liked? Whether I can or can't, I still do.

Rebecca

Rebecca is one of the most amazing friends! She is one of the most positive people on the planet that I know. I met Rebecca on 2peas quite awhile ago. I'm not even quite sure how we found eachother, but I know the story has something to do with me stalking her. Actually I invited her to the garage to scrap. I don't know how long ago this was, but in the last year, we have gotten to be really great friends. This last summer has really been a blessing. This was my first time not being employed (unless you count my 8 month old boss as an employer). Rebecca was off work waiting for her arm/hand surgery to heal. This time for both of us really gave us a chance to get to know eachother better and make a strong friendhip bond. I'm glad she's better, but I think it sucks that her work won't just pay her to hang out with me! This is a friend that I talk to everyday. This is a friend, that my day isn't complete with out our evening chats. This womans outlook on life and her amazing positive spirit just inspire me to be a better person. This is the girlfriend that you can talk to about ANYTHING. You can trust this girl with your deepest and darkest secrets. Have you ever met anyone, that no matter what the circumstances of life are, they are positive and thankful for what they have and not worried about what they don't have? I've met her and she's my friend. I know there are sometimes when inside she doesn't feel so positive. But, I'm here to tell her, that she is just one of the sweetest, most inspirational people I've ever met.

Rebecca! I just want you to know, that you are AMAZING! I am so thankful for our friendship and what your inspire me to do. If you ever need anything, you better just pick up that phone and call me up, because if I can do it for you, I will!

Do you ever think about how you make other people feel?

Okay, so in the last hour, this has been on my mind. I've seen both extremes of this question come up today a few times.

First, I met some of the Bay Area Peas from 2PEAS! Here is a picture of the ladies I met today at the Scrapbook Expo! These ladies were all so awesome! They were all very sweet and genuine scrap-a-holics just like me!

Anyway, after meeting these ladies, I was thinking to myself, I wonder how I come across. When I had to duck out of the area to feed my little one, did they think I didn't really want to hang out and chat? I really did, and I'm sure they didn't think that, but I'm nutty like that, I always wonder what people think about my actions and how they perceive me. Well, one of the ladies gave me the most amazing compliment. She posted on our message board thread, that I made her feel like she's known me forever! What a great compliment! I always want people to feel comfortable around me and know that I'm a sincere friend, and that I'm genuine in my friendships. What's even more amazing is that I was thinking the same thing about this person too!

So, now on to the otherside of the coin. Have you ever met anyone, that even though you know that they don't mean to make you feel less than capable, not good enough, or not welcome or not included, or not invited? It's almost like you know in your heart, that they don't mean to leave you out, or make you feel whichever negative way your feeling, but you still do. I always worry that my actions will make people feel bad. Not that I think that I have a huge impact on anyones psyche or anything, but I still worry about it.

How often do you think about your actions or your words and wonder how others are taking it in? How often do you think that your lack of action might be making someone feel bad. I'm sure there have been plenty of times that I have mis-spoken, not thought before I've acted, or was just too lazy to think about what I might have left out or left unsaid. To anyone that I've ever unintentionally made feel bad in any way, I'm apologizing right now!

I'll tell you right now, I am so thankful for my friends! I have the most amazing group of friends. I always want them to know that I am thankful for them, and that whenever they are in need, I'll be right there as best I can. I might be a little scattered, but if I know you need something that I can give you, I will be right there.

You know your Butt's too big when.....

Okay, so my amazing friend Rebecca posted this on her blog the other day. So, then today a friend of ours posted on a message board about her underwear experience. So now we have compiled a new list to add to Rebecca's original one.

You know your butt's too big when.....
You underwear can double as a window shade!
Your underwear can mop the floor better than your mop!
You'd rather go commando then have your underware sticking out of your pants!
Your underwear could double as the sunshade in your car.
Your underwear could hold more grocerys than those stupid bags they give you.
When you can use your underwear as a "surrender" flag!
When you mistake you underwear for sheets for your bed!
Your husband mistakes your underwear for a towel to dry off with after a shower.
When your underwear has a "do not remove under penalty" tag on it. (you know like matresses) Your husband packs your underwear in a beach bag thinking it's his beach towel.
When you can only fit 3 pairs of undies in the washer.
When your kids want to use your underwear for a halloween costume.. I wanna be a ghost mommy!

Okay, now you see what happens when I can't think of anything to write for a day, and Rebecca and I get to IMing each other late at night. Thanks Rebecca! That was loads of fun!

An Unproductive Day.

I hate days like today, when no matter what you try to accomplish, it just isn't getting done. I was so lucky today, to get to go to Suzy's to scrap with some friends. I packed up my stuff, packed up my little one and his stuff, and headed off for a fun day of creating! Everything was looking bright! I had all these great ideas in my head and ready to go, I even had a great babysitter for little Josh when I got there (Thanks Angel and Christian, you guys were awesome!). I went to pull out the pictures that I planned on scrapping.......DOI! I forgot them! I looked through what I brought 3 times, went out to my car and looked around in there...nothing. I don't know why I bothered to look, because I immediately knew where they were.....they were sitting on the shelf in the garage! Yikes! So as you can guess, nothing got done. At least there was a lot of creativity going on around me! Suzy got some fantabulous projects done! Love those animals on the album sister!

The bright side of today, is that I got to hang out with the girls and just gab. I was glad to find out that I'm not the only one addicted to crazy shows! I also could hear little Joshie having a great time in the other room with Angel and Christian, he was giggling away! He was so tired when he got home, that he was sitting on Greg's lap, and he just fell asleep like that. It was so cute I had to get pictures of his little head just falling forward while the rest of him was sitting up.

As you know by now, I am addicted to Big Brother 6, and I could just spit nails that Kaysar and Janelle are on the block for eviction. It's inevitable that one of them is going home. A phrase I learned from Rebecca, just fits here.....Crappity, Crap, Crap, Crapp!

At least there are a few more productive days to look forward to! Scrapbook Expo is this week starting Thursday! Lots of scrapshopping to be done!! Friday, I'll be off to scrap with the girls again....I won't forget the pictures this time!

Why are people so mean these days?

I've been thinking about this topic a lot over the past year or so. Prior to my new gig as a SAHM, I was an optical manager for Costco. This was a great place to work for the most part. I had been there for almost 16 years when I left to stay home with my little punkypants. When I first started, most of the customers were pretty nice and there was a level of mutual respect. As the years went by, I noticed that what used to be was that the majority of customers were nice and the minority were obnoxious, the tables seemed to have turned. It was now the nice ones were the minority. It seemed to be the general thought all of the sudden that just because one worked in retail, that you could treat them like they were lower than the toe jam between your toes! Now that I am not working in retail, I am still noticing this trend everywhere in our society. Here are a few of my favorite stories.

1. A friend and I were at Baby's R' Us, buying a shower gift for a good friend. We are standing in line behind this woman who is buying what looks like their entire stock of baby formula. As we are standing there, this conversation occurs.

Customer: I want to do 852 seperate transactions, because I have this stack of coupons I want to use on these. (Okay, so 852 is a bit of an exageration, but you get the picture)
Cashier: I'm sorry, the coupon clearly states, that there is only one coupon per customer per day.
Customer: Well, I've never had a problem doing this before.
Cashier: Well, I'm very sorry that this is a problem, but the manufacturer won't reimburse us if we don't follow the coupon guidelines.
Customer: Are you and idiot? This is so inconvenient for me. I don't want to talk to you anymore, get me a manager.
--Cashier politely calls for a manager--
Customer: I want to buy these all on seperate transactions so I can use these coupons on each one, but this idiot you have working here, won't let me do it, will you make her do it?
Manager: I'm sorry, but we are not able to accomdate you with your request. The cashier is correct.
Customer: But, I've done it here before.
Manager: I'm sorry that another one of our cashiers did not catch that they should not have done that, but I can't accomodate your request.
Customer: Fine! I'll just come back in here every day until I use up these coupons! Then, I'm never coming back because you are all a bunch of morons!

**Thinking to myself.....um...I think your the moron!

2. Greg and I get a lot of stories standing in line at our local Safeway! This is one that happened while I was pregnant....so I had NO control of what came out of my mouth!

Customer: Hands cashier coupon for some odd item (value 10 cents).
Cashier: I'm sorry, this coupon has expired.
Customer: I want to use it anyway, it hasn't been that long.
Cashier: Ma'am, this coupon expired last year.
Customer: I want to speak to a manager.
Cashier: --calls manager over--
Customer: I want to use this coupon.
Manager: I'm sorry the coupon is expired, we are unable to accept it, as it is a manufacturers coupon and they will not honor it after the date.
Customer: Well, this is nuts! You all have been doing construction in here, so it's always cold, and your loud speaker is too loud. I don't know why I shop here.
ME: I don't know why you shop here either, here is 10 cents, and Albertson's is across the street.
Customer, just looked at me dumbfounded and TOOK MY 10 CENTS and left with her groceries!

3. I wasn't present for this one, but if Greg remembers the story, then it had to be crazy, because I'm always the one paying attention to this stuff.

Greg headed to Safeway, to pick up some odds and ends we needed, and got in line. Well, you know how at Safeway, when they are done with your transaction, they say "Thank you Mr./Mrs./Ms. whatever your name is as you leave. Greg is standing in line behind this woman, who tells the cashier that when the transaction is complete, she does not want her to say her name outloud for everyone to hear. The cashier politely tells her that the policy is mandatory for them, but if she does not use her club card, then she will not know her name to say. The lady says fine. The cashier rings up her groceries, and then the lady uses her credit card to pay. The cashier asks to see her ID by saying may I see your ID Ms. Whatever her name was on the card. The lady flipped out and started screaming at her, and was yelling that a manager should come over and fire her right on the spot! I guess she was worried that the Albertson's police would find out she was shopping at Safeway.

4. Last story for this post. Greg and I were at Kohl's for the first time checking it out a few weeks after they first opened here in CA. The lines were HUGE! Anyway, as we are walking by, this cashier scans an item, and apparently it came up the wrong price. The guy immediately started screaming and cussing at her that the price was marked differently on the floor sign. This guy didn't even give the cashier a chance to get a word in edgewise to offer to get someone to fix it or anything. Just right in with the yelling or screaming.

Anyway, more of my retail follies in another post, but I guess I was really thinking about this today, because I've been seeing a lot of complaining going on, that is really just not nice. It's not even so much as complaining as it is hurting other peoples feelings or not treating them with respect. If we have a problem with and event, or something we buy, or somewhere we shop, shouldn't we be reasonable first and give the person the benefit of the doubt and give them the opportunity to make it right, or instead of complaining, maybe making suggestions to help improve something?