{The Wannabe Domestic Diva}

New theme song?

2011-07-22T23:24:00.000-05:00

I think I have found my new theme song. I wasn't even looking for one. I was browsing youtube for music from 2001, (year I graduated high school) and in one of the "Top Song" clips, I found this song! I remember loving this song when I was in high school.

"Survivor" by Destiny's Child

Red Lipstick

2011-07-06T23:11:00.000-05:00

I put on red lipstick yesterday simply because I was feeling down and depressed. I've always known that I feel more confident and sexy in red lipstick and that it lifts my spirits. Why I don't wear it daily I don't know. I have a couple shades that I really enjoy wearing, but I feel it is too much to wear out and about though. I guess you could say that I'm a closet red lipstick wearer. I need to get my confidence up to wear it out and about. I want to be able to wear it daily and not feel silly doing it. That is my goal.

Do any of my readers find that wearing something specific makes them feel like I described in the photo? If so what? I'd love it if you blogged about it and shared the link here, or of course if you don't have a blog, you can leave it in the comments. :)

Next Steps

2011-06-12T14:35:00.000-05:00

I have not broadcast this widely, but I have shared this with a few family members, but that is it. If you are finding out about it on my blog, are hurt by it, I apologize.

Jason and I are separating for good. This was not Jason's idea at all, it was mine. This is the final separation and it will lead to divorce. Please do not say I'm sorry to me or give me sympathy. Yes, it is hard, but this is what I desire.

Most people would say that going for what you desire is selfish. I agree, it can be selfish. It's not selfish if you listen to what Christ tells you and follow his guidance. Not yours, but his.

Yesterday, Friday, I found out that I need to make a decision about keeping the apartment past the end of August. They wanted a decision right then and there. I told them that I needed a week to make my final decision.

I desire to leave Rochester. I know deep down, 100% that I do not belong here. But the question is when do I leave. Bottom line is that I do not desire to be here. Do I keep the apartment longer than August? If I could leave right now, I would. My money situation does not allow that. I have to work at Mayo for at least a little longer, that could be one or two paychecks longer or it could be until the end of August longer. At this point I am not sure.

One option is to move up north. The main pro would be being closer to family. The con is that it does not feel right to me to move up north permanently. It may be a temporary stopping spot, but not permanent. Most people would say suck it up buttercup and do it anyway. But I am not most people. I am going for what my heart desires.

My desire is to just go somewhere completely new, out of state and start over. For those of you who may come back and ask if that is a good idea in my “condition” or with my depression, etc.   I am the one who seen myself getting so bad, so down. I am the one who sought help. I am the one who checked myself into Generose. Yes, I had support once I said that I was going downhill, but it was ultimately all me.   I am a hell of a lot stronger than I thought I was. I don’t see how being around family, etc. will help me.   I was not around my family down here in Rochester.

I don't desire to work in a 8-5 job anymore. I desire to do something creative in my life. I feel that I am part of something bigger. That I have more to do in my life than be an Administrative Assistance. I don't know exactly what that is yet, it may be helping with the Grace community, it may be doing something creative, scrapbooking, crafting, photography, etc.

Normally I would be scared shitless without a plan or a list. I am at peace right now with my desire to leave Rochester, to scale back what I own, and put what I want to keep in storage.

I realize that this seems very out of character for me, but I have kept many of my dreams and desires close to my heart because I never thought they were possible. I feel led to start perusing them. Despite the unknown. I may succeed, I may fail. But at least I tried. But now I will not be held back.

I found this on Pinterest....thought it summed up my thoughts really well.

Where I am at today.

2011-05-31T19:53:00.005-05:00

I've had a blog post brewing in me about the song "Strong One" by Clint Black.

But tonight that's not what I'm going to blog about tonight. That one might hurt peoples feelings and I don't think I want to do that. I don't have it in me to fight tonight and tonight I'm not feeling like a "strong one."

Lately I've been struggling with headaches and migraines again. It sucks. I usually wake up with them. I've been trying not to complain and post, especially on Facebook, but really, who needs negative stuff on Facebook. Lately this has been my attitude about all the negative stuff I've been seeing on Facebook.

I've been removing people because of their negativity, and because right now, I don't need that in my life. I'm sorry, but right now that's one thing I can cut out and I will.

Anyway, back to the migraines. Last week I called in 4 days because of migraines/really bad headaches. It killed me to call in, I love my job, I really do. I don't know what else to do though when I get them. My meds kill me. Oh and the irony of missing work last week? I also missed my headache clinic appointment due to a migraine. Heh. Isn't that the irony of all ironies?

I love going to work and being there and doing my job. It's fun, I have a variety of tasks, I feel appreciated for all I do. Someday's are frustrating, but that is with any job. I don't feel as if I have too much on my plate. My plate is full so to speak, but not overfull.

Also, I've really been struggling with my depression. I've been sinking back down again, and it's been really to pull myself back up. I'm doing what I can, and I really need to pull back out some of my IOP resources. They are all in a bag and very accessible. I've been doing things that I enjoy, playing with sidewalk chalk, blowing bubbles, getting outside, reading, and doing a bit of shopping. I'm doing my best not to isolate myself and keeping my positive/healthy habits going. It's hard as hell, and I'm keeping my head above water, but it's hard.

Because of my depression coming back, my Effexor was increased from 150 mg to 225 mg. After that was upped, I got 2 awful migraines. (Noting that for my own records.)

There are a couple things that are concerning to me. First, when I'm down, I want to go out and shop and spend money in hopes that it will make me happy. I've done some shopping, and now nothing was put on credit cards and nothing was overdrawn, etc. But that money should have gone towards our debt. Is this why they thought about diagnosing me with bipolar?

The second thing that has been me on the brink of tears since about 3 p.m. today is that my supervisor talked to me and said that I am doing an amazing job, when I'm here, but with all my absences, they would like to bring in a Kelly Temp person at least through orientation (the month of June) to be a back up for me if I'm off unexpectedly and to help with checkouts if at all possible. She did get approval from Administration for this. It makes sense, but it hurts. I've been very open with my supervisor and my coworker Trish about my depression and my supervisor said that when I called in I sounded so sad that it hurt her to hear my messages. (She lost her daughter to suicide, so she knows depression all too well.) And that if there is anything they can do for me in the meantime at work to please let me know. They want me to get the migraines and depression figured out so I can be back to work full time, as they really enjoy me, and my "skills are impeccable" but I just need to be there more.

All of that brings me to this:

I've come up with a few different options. One that I think I really need is to go spend time alone somewhere. For a week or two. To figure things out. But would that be a mistake? Would it not be? I don't have the paid time off to do. I don't have the money to go anywhere. But I truly thing that is what I need. To remove myself from my current situation, and go somewhere alone. Just me. I feel as if I truly need this. It would be healthy for me. But would it be a mistake? I don't know. Do I have the courage to do this? Can I do this? Can I make this happen?

Computer Wallpaper

2011-05-24T13:54:00.004-05:00

Last week I decided I was tired of my old wallpaper on my computer and wanted something inspiring on my new one. Of course I couldn't find anything I wanted. I've been struggling with my depression a bit again, nothing really bad, but whenever I get on my computer, I wanted a positive quote or something there. Since I could not find anything I made my own. Since I have not messed with Photoshop Elements in forever it took me eons to make. Yea it could be better, but I'm happy enough with it to share.

To Download:

Go to Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gamerbabe360/5747777784/sizes/l/in/photostream/

Click on "Download the Large size of this photo"

If you decide to use it, please post a comment here letting me know!

What would you like to have accomplished a year from now?

2011-05-22T13:33:00.005-05:00

I read this on Yammer at work, and emailed it to myself thinking that it was appropriate for here as well.

What would you like to have accomplished a year from now? A year is a long time! If we desire some change to occur in our lives in the next year (promotion, debt-free, home purchase, etc.) we have to set some short-term goals. For some reason it is difficult to focus on a goal that is a year or more away. It is similar to looking at a painting from fifty yards away - you can see it, but not well enough to appreciate its beauty. When we can't see the goal clearly, we tend to get distracted by those things we can see clearly - the day-to-day problems and activities. So we need to create sub-goals that are easier to see and will continually move us towards our ultimate destination. Think through the steps that it will take to get you to that long-term goal and set your first goal close enough you can see it clearly and can anticipate the results. Working towards each short-term goal will bring us closer to that long-term goal we so desire. Remember the words of Karen Lamb, "A year from now you may wish you had started today."

I think that this is something that we all need to hear. It is common sense, but sometimes you need to hear common sense again. To push you in the right direction. I know I needed the push. Did you? I'm going to make at least one goal. Are you going to make your goals?

Emotions

2011-04-25T18:55:00.003-05:00

*disclaimer, this blog entry is not to hurt anyones feelings, nor to cause harm to anyone, I am purely stating my feelings and emotions.*

The last month has been a roller coaster of emotions. I haven't shared much online, but I bet a few of you have pieced together a few things if you Facebook stalk me, lol.

Long story short, Susan, my 18 year old sister came with Jason and I on our visit up north the first weekend of April. She wanted help with her depression, and seen that I got help and wanted to go the same place that I went. Makes sense, we were able to get her admitted on April 4. She stayed inpatient until April 13. I visited her close to every other day at least. Some days I visited her 2 or 3 times a day. It was a lot of running.

When I first went with her to go up and get her settled in, I couldn't believe that it was a little over a month ago that I was there. As a patient. It was so hard for me to be back there so soon. I honestly wanted to get out of there as soon as I could. It hurt me so bad that the staff thought I was a patient again. I felt like they had thought that I had failed and was back in myself. I know that it's very likely I may end up seeking treatment again and I'm ok with that, but at that point I was doing very good, taking good care of myself, and managing things well. I felt like a failure when I felt there that first night, despite staying there as long as Susan wanted me too.

I'm very thankful that during this I was working only half days. I don't know how I could have managed working full time during this. The half days were hard enough and balancing getting the things Susan needed and visiting her and still taking the time for myself. I felt like I should visit and be there for her no matter what, as I was the only family she had in town. I am so proud of her for seeking help.

Sitting with her in the ER that Sunday, trying to get her admitted into the impatient program was hard. I felt like I had been turned into a parent instantly. In fact the ER doctor thought I was her mom....I didn't think I looked old enough to be her mom!!! Thankfully all of the patients that were inpatient thought that we were sisters or twins. That made me feel so much better. But instantly I felt so much responsibility for her and that I had to support Susan, myself, Jason, and the entire family. I knew I could not do that. I was so afraid that I would hurt Ma's feelings when I was open and honest and assertive with her (those are some of my goals I'm still working on) when I had to text her in the car on the way down telling her that I could support her and Susan at the same time. I felt like I had let her down so much. I knew it would be a struggle for me to support myself and Susan. I had to remember to focus on me still since I was still struggling to get into the swing of things and work on being healthy.

During the time that Susan was staying with us, we set some some healthy routines and habits. I felt like I constantly had to check on her to make sure she was doing them. I hated that feeling. I felt like a nag and that it was something I shouldn't have to do. It annoyed me, but I tried to not let it show. I tried to do gentle reminders, but I don't think they came across that way sometimes. During this entire time period I felt like a mom, despite never having a child, and Susan showing great progress. She never yelled at me, despite telling me that she was very angry at me later.

I will admit that during this time I was not doing anything to focus on myself or my treatment to get better, other than going to therapy appointments. I meant I tried doing my diaphragmatic breathing, and trying other of my CBT skills, but that's about it. I did not stick to my routine at all. Oh, I did go to my therapy appointments, but it was so hard at first because my therapist was not in for the first part of April due to having surgery. She did not get in until April 14. That was rough. I didn't feel comfortable going to see another person there either. I kept most of my thoughts and feels (especially the negative ones) inside. I tried to share some with Jason, but he was stressed too, and I didn't want to burden him. That is what I felt. I know this was not the way I should have coped but it was what I did. I need to get back into my healthy ways of coping. It will do me good. This is what I NEED to do. Although like everything, it's easier said than done. I need to kick the depression out that has set back in.

Today, Susan went home. Ma, dad, and Julie came down yesterday for Easter and it worked out perfect for taking Susan home. I feel really guilty for pushing her a bit to go home 4 days early, but really, in 4 days, what difference would that have really made? I'm afraid that I pissed her off, and that she will hate me forever for siding with Ma about that.

I knew that today would be an emotion filled day for me. I didn't do my eye makeup today, despite Susan having taught me how to do it now. (Thank you Susan!) I decided to head into work and once Susan was all packed and Ma and Dad were on their way from the hotel, that I would come on home for an hour and take my lunch break then, since I had a feeling they would leave soon after. I started by giving Susan and Dad hugs. I told Susan that she can do the the same things that she has been doing at home here. I know she can continue to make progress and that I love her. Gave dad a hug, and he told me thanks for everything. Gave Julie a hug and told her that I love her. Then I gave Ma a hug, and that's when I started to cry. I told her to take care of Susan. I'm crying now just thinking about the good byes. I mean, who tells their own MOTHER how to their care of their own DAUGHTER. It's kinda ridiculous isn't it? Ma, if I offended you by telling you that, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you if I did.

I was so distracted all day at work. Even now at home. I've been Facebook Stalking my families profiles to see what all they post. I've been tempted to write Ma "directions" on how I've handled a few things with Susan, and her routine. I know, I feel like an overprotective mother. I just want to see Susan to continue to make progress. I know she will. She has it in her.

The house is so lonely without her. I have no funny stories from the day. No funny comments, or anything. It was especially hard tonight since Jason naps Monday nights. It's going to be a hard adjustment without her here. Susan, I miss you so much and I love you.

Now I gotta go, since I'm starting to soak my shirt with tears, and that is not a good thing.

I'm hoping to post a few fun pictures tomorrow from Susan's stay here. :)

Being Honest.

2011-04-18T20:27:00.005-05:00

(Click on image to make it larger)

Since I'm supposed to be honest, I'm going to make a blog entry today about what I'm feeling.

Today I feel like a failure, and I've been kinda down all day, even though I really don't have a reason to be. I slept good last night and everything.

Work started out great. Got a couple meetings scheduled that were the meetings from hell. The physician's schedules would never coordinate, one admininistrative assistant wouldn't give up any time at all on her physician's calendar, even though he volunteered for this project, knowing that it would be a very tight deadline, etc. It felt good to get those scheduled. I've just kinda felt melancholy.

I had an appointment today in Endo. My primary care doc. Referred me there since they could do my pap smear, and give me more options than just a birth control pill to force me to have a period, since I haven't had one for about 1 1/2 to 2 years.

The appointment went nothing like I though. First of all, I wasn't assertive at all, like I should have been. I just went along with whatever. I was also irked from the get go when my report time was 2:30 (I was there at that point, so was Jason), and my appointment time was 2:45, and I didn't get to see anyone until 3:15. Keep in mind that there was absolutely no one else in the waiting room, we need no other patients, etc.

At 3:15 two residents/fellows come in and introduce themselves. I'm irked right away since they look so young, and I've already waited for 45 minutes and I haven't seen the doctor I made my appointment for yet.

They start out with, well we think you have PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome.) Umm...yea, I was diagnosed with that back in 2004....they say that they couldn't find anything about that in my file, it's there.....I had to help them find it. How does that work? I'm irked even more. They go on and on about tests and such. Eventually the doc comes in and I walk out with my head spinning. I don't even know what's going on to tell you the truth. I'm so lost and feel so stupid that I can't even comprehend everything. The appointment went nothing like I thought it would. I don't know what I was expecting, but nothing like this. It's hard to explain.

Within the next week I have teh following appointments set up in regards of this appointment.

Ultrasound--to confirm that I have PCOS. Apparently you need this now to confirm that you have it.
Blood Tests--You need blood tests too to confirm that you have it.
3 hour glucose test--because they are concerned that I may eventually have diabetes. Just becuase of my weight. While I get that, my glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels were monitored closely while I was in Generose. They were all normal. Do I really need this?
Dietitian Consult--I know I could benefit from this. But right now? I just don't know.
Exercise test--I had no idea I had to have this done. Why?
Follow-Up Appointment--to go over the results of everything

I am just stressing over everything about this appointment. Is it really needed now? Do I need to do it all? I mean it's just insane to me. Do I need it or do they just want my money? It's stressing me out just thinking of all of these appointments and all that I'm going to be missing work for these. Plus my Thursday therapy appointments. I feel like my plate is full and this would over fill it for me, and that would not be a good thing. I'm seriously tempted to call and cancel all of the appointments.

Just from this appointment I have 2 hours of time to make up from work, or I have to take 2 hours of PTO, which I'm not sure I have. Or 2 hours of no pay. Grrrrr. That is stressing me out too.

I'm worried that I'm trying to give Susan too much too soon. I don't want her to feel overwhelmed. But I do want to try to teach her some responsibility while she is here. I love having Susan here. I can't wait until Jason and I someday move back up north to be close to family to be close to everyone all the time. That will be amazing. I don't know if I"m doing the right things with Susan or not. I'm worried I'm not doing the right things and I'm second and third, and fourth, etc. guessing myself all the times.

I've been trying to take better care of myself lately, but I've been failing at that too. I'm just doing what needs to be done. One thing I've defined that I need is 30-60 minutes of alone time each day. I haven't been getting that. I don't know how to get that, especially since I'm back full time, but I need me time so damn bad. I feel so guilty leaving Susan and Jason for the day while I get some me time in. Since Thursday, I think I've got 2-30 minute sessions in. That's just not enough for me. I don't know how to make myself a proirity. I feel like I need to take care of everyone around me.

Tonight I wasn't even thinking and didn't realize that I needed to wash clothes so Jason would have clean uniforms for work tonight. I should have known that. But did I think about it, of course not.

Lately I've been picking up more negativity around me, at home, at work, at stores, all over. I don't know what to do about it. I feel like it is seeping into me, and I can't get it out.

I'm feeling very overwhelmed, stressed, and depressed tonight, and I was hoping that tonight writing it all out would help me, but it didn't.

Oh, and yes, I have been doing my relaxation breathing, and some of my CBT skills. They help to a certain extent.

I just don't know what else to do right now. I just hate feeling this way.

Stress

2011-04-14T20:35:00.004-05:00

It feels like it has been forever since I have posted. I feel like I have written a zillion posts in my head, but nothing ever got written down over here where people actually read it.

I've been realizing lately that I've been putting a lot of pressure and stress on myself. How smart is that? Stressing yourself out? Not too smart, if I can say so.

I've found that my massive huge, long lists stress me out. I can still be a list lover, but I just have to not make them so long, and prioritize what I have on them.

I stress myself out by being around people who think negatively, because that makes me think negatively. Now, I'm not saying everyone has to be positive all the time, that is just not realistic. But I've noticed that some people are much more negative than others. In my online life, I've been removing them from Facebook, Twitter, etc. For me, it's a good choice.

I stress myself out by feeling like I have to accomplish EVERYTHING in a day. I don't give myself credit for what I have done, but focus on the failure. As Dr. Phil (I think it's him that says this) would say, "How's that working for you." Not very well, honestly. I've been working very hard to focus on the positive and leave the negative by the wayside.

I could go on and on about how I cause myself stress. I am learning to recognize what causes me to stress out and how to prevent it. For me, that is huge.

I have also learned that I have to remember to take care of ME. It's so hard to do, but it's so important. Starting today I'm going to take at least 30 minutes of alone time daily to just decompress and focus on myself. I don't know what all I will do during it, but I just know what I need it.

I also know that I need to get back to doing some of my CBT based stuff. Like Thought Records for instance. Those seriously helped me. I also need to continue with my exercise and eating healthy that seriously makes a word of difference. I can't forget my leisure time either. That is different than my alone time. I think I'm going to start using my leisure time to focus on creative projects. I miss doing those all the time.

I've learned so much over the last month and I know what skills/tasks I should be focusing on and doing, but at the same time it seems like so much work. I need my IOP friends back here with me. They would keep me on track. :)

Rainbow Cupcakes

2011-03-28T18:29:00.003-05:00

I made for my friend Angie's birthday. Can you tell that I have a thing for Polaroid frames?

Major Decision

2011-03-14T12:48:00.002-05:00

First, I have to say that I saved this from the PostSecret website back in 2009 sometime. The thing about PostSecret secrets is that there really isn't an archive of them. I tend to save the ones that mean something to me. I was just looking around on my computer for a file I created quite a while ago and stumbled across this.

This fits me well. Though not necessarily the word "compromised." I have thought about others during every major decision in my life. I have put myself last while making them. Now how is that fair to me? It's not. From now on. I'm doing the unthinkable to me. I'm putting myself first. I'm worth it.

If anyone out there reading my blog is like me, and putting everyone else first in their life and yourself last, I'm going to be blunt here, that is part of what landed me in the psych ward. Now I'm not saying go out and be selfish in every decision you make. But remember to take time for you. Think about yourself some more. Make time for yourself and the stuff you want to do. If there is a major decision in your life, don't put other's opinions first. Put yourself first. You are worth it.

Home

2011-03-09T13:17:00.003-06:00

In my last post I kinda explained what let up to the psych ward experience, but didn't really get a chance to explain much of it.

First, I met a couple of good cohorts there, Angie and Kurt Angie actually lives close to Rochester but Kurt lives in Michigan. It was great to meet them though. We all have been in contact with one another already. I think it helps being able to get support from people who have been there, especially the same time that you were. Don't get me wrong, I will still utilize my support system here at home. But man, we had a blast talking, laughing, and Angie and I both cried at different points during our stay. It was great being there for each other. I have a feeling that we will be life long friends.

The classes were hit and miss. Some of them I got a lot out of, other ones I walked out of more confused than I walked in. I can usually comprehend and information pretty well, but a couple of the classes I didn't That was very frustrating for me. I think that I got a lot out of the Cogitative Behavioral Therapy classes. I kinda want to do a brief post explaining what I learned because it made sense to me. I also learned a ton in Occupational Therapy. That was one of my favorites. Though my all time favorite classes was Recreation Therapy. Does that surprise anyone? I started a wood burning project! I have never done wood burning before, but it has always interested me. I didn't get finish the project, but I ordered a wood burning gun from Joann's online since they don't carry them in store. I actually got it for a really good deal too! I can't wait for it to get it. It's just amazing to me what all you can create with wood burning and the oil pencils. I'm getting 8 of those with my set, but I think I'm going to want more. I picked up a new hobby in there Yay!

I also wrote down quite a few quotes that I enjoyed throughout my time there. I think I'm going to have to post those on there as I think a few of you enjoy questions as well. I also got a bunch of movie recommendations as well as a bunch of book recommendations. Maybe that would be a good place to go on Friday.

I start my Intensive Outpatient Program on Monday. I go there 3 days a week from 8 a.m. to noon for 3 weeks. I also have appointments in the next 3 weeks as well. It's nice having them all set up in advanced though. That makes me feel relieved, which is a very good thing.

Yesterday, I was very emotional though. I think it's because I tried to over do it and do a "normal" day from before. Despite my Occupational therapist telling me not to over do it but don't under do it either. Today I'm doing much better. I've been productive, I worked on my knifty knitter, and I blogged so far! I'm planning on doing something on the treadmill too. My goal right now, is to just do 10 minutes 3 times a week. I know it's not much, but just to ease myself back into it, and besides doing that is better than nothing. If I want to do more, then that's fine, if not, that's fine too.

Does anyone have any questions about when I was in the Psych Ward? I'm more than willing to answer them to the best of my ability.

I am in a psych ward.

2011-03-06T21:44:00.001-06:00

For those that know me well, know that I have struggled with depression since my teen years. I attempted suicide in 2001 and landed myself in a psych ward for 5 days. I told them everything they wanted to hear to get me out. I did not want to be there at all. When I got out, I went to see a counselor is our local town, I don't even remember what his name was, but he told me that I had, "Severe Chronic Depression and that there was nothing he could do to help me and that I had to learn how to say no." After that I kind of swore off therapists.

My depression has been coming back full force lately. I seen my primary care doctor about a year and a half ago and got put on Celexa for my depression. Then I went back a few months ago since I felt the Celexa wasn't working well and they suggested that I up the dosage. Looking back now, that is when I started to get migraines on a more regular basis. Not a good thing at all. Not feeling good and missing so much work worsened my depression. I started feeling so hopeless and if I didn't get help, then I would be back where I was in 2001 and I know I didn't want to be there.

My first step was telling Jason. That wasn't as hard as I thought it would be as he has always been so supportive of me.

The next morning I called my Diamond Nurse (depression nurse) and said that I needed help. And felt that I needed more help than just a med adjustment. She talked to my primary care doc and called me back almost immediately. They both suggested that I go to the ER to see if I could get admitted to an inpatient program. They could call ahead and let the ER know that I was coming, but that was all they could do to make sure that the transition went easy. I showered (for the first time in 4 or 5 days) and packed some clothes, books, and toiletries and off to the ER we went.

Jason and I first went back to a little room that felt like it was closing in on me the longer I was in it, I didn't think that I had anxiety or claustrophobia...but I didn't know how long I could manage in it. Thankfully I was soon wheeled up to the Generose in the Mood Disorders Unit.

It was a really different experience than when I was up in Miller Dwan back in 2001. That felt almost like a jail. It was awful. This one there wasn't the loud clank of a door when you were admitted. It was a really warm and inviting environment, surprisingly. The first day and a half was hard. I sat by myself, and then started to socialize more. I'm going to miss some of the people that I have met here.

I've gotten some good information out of the classes, but not all of them. Some of them are a joke. But for the classes that I didn't get much out, that's ok.

Someday's I get really overwhelmed by all of the paperwork/forms that I have to fill out and all of the reading I have to do. It's nice that I know I can just set it aside and return to it in a little while. I know that I a lot that I have to work on, but that is good.

I know that this is where I needed to be. And rather than be in Miller Dwan, here I have been open, honest, and speaking up in classes. I didn't just say what they wanted to hear to get out.

My release date sounds like it is Tuesday. Today I feel like I can handle that. I know that I have wonderful supportive network of people around me. For that I am so very thankful. I don't know what I would do without them, especially Jason.

This was really hard to admit that I needed to be in a psych ward, but I knew it was where I needed to be. This was a really good decision for me.

After getting out of the psych ward, I already have a therapist appointment set up, and I'm going to be attending an Intensive Outpatient Program for Cognitative Behavior Therapy.

It's almost bedtime here, but I'm glad I got to post it. :) I just wanted to let everyone know kind of what was going on.

February Recipe Share

2011-02-26T20:56:00.003-06:00

Yes, this is up before the end of February. Can you believe it?!?! I feel like I've been so behind on everything, so it feels good to be ahead of everything.

One thing I should share briefly, is that I have started to eat Gluten free. Which means to wheat, barely, oats, etc. It is a huge adjustment, but I started it to see if it helps my migraines and so far it seems to be helping. I feel like I have so much more energy and feel so much better. Anyway, since I started Gluten Free it's kinda like a whole new way of cooking. I mean not really, but I can't bake and such like I used too. I'm trying new things. So I'm not sure how many of you will try these, but seriously, I have enjoyed eating Gluten Free. It's been a good change for me.

Now, once again I've been awful about pictures. I really gotta get back into taking them. Maybe next month. So once again I apologize.

First up:

Alison's Gluten Free Bread

This was my very first loaf of Gluten Free bread. I'll be honest, I was scared to try it. I heard that Gluten Free Bread was not very tasty and would be nothing like normal bread. I almost didn't try it. I'm glad I decided too. First, I have to say that I was freaked out about the texture of it, it was more like really grainy brownie batter than any bread dough. I did add a bit more flour than the recipe showed, to see if I could get it to look a bit more like normal bread but I didn't. I was shocked at how much it rose!! I mixed it up in the bread machine and then baked it in the oven.

Verdict: I will totally be making it again!!!! It was a little bit crumbly, but very good. It was sweeter than normal bread, but I was fine with that. I also heard that GF bread should be stored in the fridge to last longer, and that also helps with the cutting/crumbling of the bread so I stored it in there. It feels great to know I can have bread again. :) Though in the future, I'm going to cut this recipe in half. I don't need a ton of bread. Now I'm not scared of trying to make GF bread.

Second recipe I tried:

Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole from UBake

1 cup dry quinoa

1 cup salsa

2 eggs

1 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese

2 cups shredded sweet potato

3 cups black beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed) NOTE: I used the cans

1 T ground cumin

liberal pinches of salt and pepper

Cook quinoa according to package directions. I googled how to cook quinoa in a rice cooker and cooked it that way.

Preheat oven to 350.

Mix quinoa, black beans, sweet potato, half the cheese, and the cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. In a small bowl mix the eggs and the salsa, then pour over the vegetables. Pour all ingredients into a 9x9 casserole dish coated with nonstick cooking spray.

Sprinkle on remaining cheese and bake for 30 minutes, uncovered.

Can serve on a bed of spinach if you would like.

Makes about 8 servings.

Now, first off, I've always wanted to try quinoa, mainly because it sounds so exotic and it's fun to say. Yup, I'm odd, but hey, at least it got me to try a different food! Now I have to say that I did not like the smell of the quinoa cooking. It kinda grossed me out, I couldn't place the smell, but I just didn't like it. It was not pleasant. I still went ahead with the recipe though. It was very easy to put together despite all the ingredients.

Verdict: I topped mine with a bit of sour cream after trying the first bite. I thought it tasted like it was missing something, but couldn't place it. I couldn't taste the sweet potatoes and it tasted very Mexican-ey. I enjoyed it. The downside is that when it was re-heated it didn't taste as good. I didn't really care for it. It's hard to explain. I don't think I would make this again. Though I'll look for another recipe to try quinoa again.

And of course I saved the best recipe for last!!!

Traditional Gluten Free Pizza Crust

Tonight I was craving pizza. I did some searching last night for a crust recipe and with the help of a group on Facebook found this one. Now keep in mind I have been making homemade pizza crust for years. I have never perfected the recipe, but I have made decent crust. After the bread, I was a bit concerned about the consistency, but wanted to try it. No issues at all. Was very similar in consistency to my normal crust from scratch.

Verdict: OH. MY. GOODNESS. I think I have found THE pizza crust recipe. Even if I go back to eating wheat, and this crust tastes good reheated, I'm sticking with this recipe. It was a thinner crust, with just enough flavor. I loved the texture and the taste of it. It kinda reminded me of a Pi Pizza crust, but with Italian Seasoning in the crust. I can't wait to re-heat this and see how it tastes. :) I also think it might make good croutons or flavored breadcrumbs to use in other dishes.

Painting

2011-02-19T21:19:00.003-06:00

Long story short, I'm moving back in with Jason. One thing with the house is that we never made it "ours." The house was Jason's grandparents and when we re-did the living room, I felt that I got a lot of flack from Jason's dad for changing it and painting it bright red. I love it though, but that stopped me from continuing to upgrade the house. It's been a huge challenge for me. I haven't felt like the house is "home" if that makes sense.

Tonight Jason and I went to Menard's to look a paint colors. We ended up buying some since they were on sale, plus we got 2 rebates, which means that we ended up getting 3 gallons free.

So the colors are a little off in my samples here, but you can get the general gist. Feel free to look up the colors online if you want! I could find linkable samples.

I can't wait to start painting!!!!!

January Recipe Share

2011-02-10T17:56:00.004-06:00

One of my goals is to try 3 new recipes a month for a year. I succeed in that for January. Of course I forgot to take pictures of the goods, but I did find all of these online.

First up:

New York Cheesecake from Mr. Food I made this for Christmas (we celebrate it on New Years Day) with the in-laws with a homemade chocolate sauce. I have made cheesecake before, but not this style. Now I have to admit that I did not follow this recipe exactly. If you know me, you know that I won't buy pre-packaged cookie dough. Instead I made sugar cookie dough from scratch and used it as the crust. I really missed the graham cracker crust. I was not fond of the sugar cookie one at all. Everyone but me loved the filling. I thought it was missing something, but couldn't place my finger on it.

Verdict: I would try this recipe again, but I would do the traditional graham cracker crust. If at that time I still feel like something is missing from the filling, then I won't make it again. Oh, and it did turn out just like the picture!

Second Recipe:

HOT FUDGE CHOCOLATE SAUCE

3 T. Cocoa
1/4 c. Butter
2 c. Powdered sugar
3/4 c. Evaporated Milk

In a 2 qt. saucepan melt the butter with the cocoa until smooth.
Add the milk & sugar slowly until all lumps are gone.
Bring to a boil & continue boiling until thickness you desire.
Put on ice cream or cheesecake, or simply eat with a spoon. (Not that I have ever done that....)

Verdict: OMG. I have made this one TWICE. OH SO GOOD! It stores perfectly in a pint size glass jar in the fridge. Growing up Ma made something similar, and I didn't have her recipe, but I called her and this is very similar if not exact to it. It is heavenly. I think that this recipe is from All Recipes. I didn't save the link from it....I copy and pasted it into a word document....but it is AMAZING.

Third Recipe:

Lemon Poppyseed Bread from Joy of Baking Now this one I once again realized I forgot part of it. I forgot to make the topping that goes on it. I have a love for Lemon Poppyseed muffins and breads. I just love that combination.

Verdict: I wasn't that impressed with this recipe. I thought that the bread was try and that there wasn't enough of a lemon flavor. I don't think that I will make this recipe again. Though if you try it and make it with the topping, let me know what you think! I could be persuaded to try this again, because it totally could have been my error and the topping could make that much of a difference.

I'll post this again monthly and I think that the recipes will vary more than just baking. I'm planning on trying a couple gluten free recipes, and Andrew wanted me to post a couple vegetarian ones. I think I'm going to accept his challenge, since I didn't finish the 7 day challenge. Oops.

Challenge Day 4: Photo!

2011-02-01T19:59:00.003-06:00

Today's challenge is "Share a photo I took this week and tell you about it."

Yea, this is so not one of my best photos that I have ever taken! But it's a photo I took tonight and the lighting sucked!

Anyway, here is the photo!

Don't mind the reflection of the ceiling fan....

I've been meaning to share more pictures of the apartment. This is part of the wall in the dining room. The picture on the left, the egg beaters, I bought off of etsy. It's a screen print and I just love it. The picture on the right is a housewife picture that I commissioned Lee to do. I've had it since either '09, but never got around to hanging it up. Now I just need a third picture to hang on the other side of the egg beaters. The frames are just IKEA ones that I painted with acrylic paint. I love the colors of them. I really wish I could have a color other than white on the walls, but I shall deal with it!

Challenge Day 3: Organizing!

2011-01-31T14:10:00.006-06:00

The challenge question for day 3 is "Write a blog post on the same topic as one my most popular posts." According to my blog stats, my most viewed post is "Light Bulb Moment" which is a post about organizing scrapbook or other craft projects.

Today I am going to share show I organize a couple of items.

First up is Ribbon. I'm the first to admit that I have a ribbon problem. I absolutely love ribbon and lace. For the longest time I had ribbon stored in candy type jars. In fact, these exact jars form IKEA. I have to admit that it looked gorgeous, but it wasn't very practical to use. Here is now I store my ribbon currently.

It is just a craft organizer, and I wrapped my ribbon around embroidery floss cards. The thicker lace and ribbon I can fold and put on the side like the lace. I don't typically use much thicker ribbon so it works for me. I'm also not going to tell you how many containers of ribbon like this that I have. Once I am done organizing my craft room and find all my ribbon and get it wound, I'm going to organize this by color, using the main color of the ribbon as a guide.

The next item that I'm going to touch on organizing is photographs. I used to be really good at remembering when I took a picture and find it easily. As I'm getting older, I'm no good at all. Or for instance if I want to find pictures with the Bellywings in them, and don't care from when they are from, I would have to sort through each month, and then each day to find them. It annoyed me to no end. This is how my picture files used to look:

Very clean and simple right? Well, I couldn't find a thing in there.

In 2010 I started to organize them a bit better. I still wanted them to be found my date, as I'm a bit anal that way, but I started to rename the folders to what pictures were inside.

Now I can easily find all of the pictures with Cullen or the Bellywings in them.

You may have a different photo organization method than I do, and hopefully that is working well for you. I just wanted to share what works well for me.

Remember, you can click on any of the images to make them larger.

Challenge Day 2: Answer one question I think people visiting my blog may have.

2011-01-29T20:40:00.003-06:00

Edited: I thought that it would be a good idea to edit in short answers to these questions for those of you that haven't followed my blog from the beginning. And I'm too lazy to go and search for all of these answers.

This is a hard challenge for me, for some reason. I guess that's why it's called a challenge, huh? I have thought of many possible questions...

Why do you call your "The Wannabe Domestic Diva?"

Because I would love to me a stay at home mom/wife someday. Taking care of the house, baking everything homemade, etc. I'm not a Domestic Diva yet, but I'm a wannabe.

Why do you use your real name as your URL?

Because I knew that I would never stay with the same title of my blog, and my using my name, I could change the title of my blog as it suited me. Though the draw back is that I'm not anonymous.

What is the true point of your blog?

There is none! It's about everything and anything I want too. A little bit of normal, a little bit of crazy.

Why don't you have children?

Let's just say that it's not from lack of trying. The short answer is that I have PCOS, which makes it difficult to conceive. Long answer I'm not comfortable blogging about at the moment. Perhaps one day.

Why don't you have a focus on your blog?

Because if I did, I think I would get bored. I like not having limits to what I can post about on my blog. If it just were scrapbooking, I couldn't post funny stories about my sisters, or my money problems.

What are your hobbies?

Scrapbooking, reading, photography, baking, crafting in general, dorking around online.

Why do you go for such long periods without posting?

Life has it's ups and downs. Sometimes when life gets busy, my blog gets neglected.

I've decided I'm going to not answer any of those as I have answered them somewhat in previous posts. The true question that I think everyone is wondering is...

What did you have for breakfast today?

You might think I am a mind reader right? Ya'll were really wondering that right? Well I am going to put your mind at ease today.

I had a bowl of frosted mini-wheats for breakfast.

Now ya'll can sleep tonight knowing what I had for breakfast.

Challenge Day 1: What the purpose of my website is, who I am, and why my blog is unique.

2011-01-29T10:00:00.000-06:00

When I started blogging, it was back in 2005, I wasn't sure what I would write about, but thought it would be fun to hop on the blogging bandwagon. My blog is a personal one, and about a wide variety of topics. The purpose of my blog is to share a bit about me. Almost like a diary of sorts, my personal thoughts, struggles, at least what I choose to share. I like it’s almost like a short record of my life. I also share recipes, my hobbies, and my opinions about topics. For a while it was a place to share my year in pictures. That was fun, blogging nearly every day. My blog is unique because no two people have the same thoughts, opinions, hobbies. I’m trying to make my blog reflect the true me, as I discover who I really am, what is really important to me.

I’m 28, currently living in an apartment, separated from my husband. We are going through counseling and trying to work through things. I’m a Christian. I work full-time as an Administrative Assistant and love the area that I am currently working in. My hobbies include baking, scrapbooking, crafting in general, reading, and photography. I love anything vintage or vintage inspired. I’m a daughter, and older sister. My sisters are 16 and 18, they make me feel so old sometimes. I love music, especially anything country. I love to clean and scrapbook with the music cranked. I’d love to travel abroad someday. I’m currently working to be debt free. I also need to work on getting healthy again. I also suffer from depression, and am working to get that under control. Expect some blog posts on those topics sooner or later. I love watching history type shows on tv, and don’t follow politics, though I know I should pay more attention. I try to catch the news and weather daily. I used to be a news junkie, but it seems like everything is negative, and I need to surround myself with positive things, so I don’t watch or read it near as much as I used too. I love naps, clouds, and owls. I’m a very random person, and often when telling a story go off on a tangent. As Ma says, “It’s the Nelson version of the story.” Nelson is my maiden name. That is me in a nutshell.

The Seven Day Blogging Challenge

2011-01-27T16:16:00.002-06:00

Andrew, my Twitter friend is doing a Seven Day Blogging Challenge. He challenged a few people, including me, to do the challenge. I have accepted this challenge and look forward to doing it. Here are the 7 topics that Andrew has challenged us to write about.

Starting Saturday I will write one blog post a day, each with 300 to 400 words about:

What the purpose of my website is, who I am and why my blog is unique.
Answer one question I think people visiting my blog may have.
Write a blog post on the same topic as one my most popular posts.
Share a photo I took this week and tell you about it.
Embed a legal youtube clip that I either found today or created myself. Then tell everyone about the clip and related information.
Create a blog post on a subject I’ve never blogged about here before.
Share hints or details of what I intend to write about in the future.

The challenge for me, I think is going to be in the 300-400 word count. The other challenge I think is going to write a blog post about a topic I have never posted here. I look forward to doing this challenge. If you are reading this and want to do this challenge too, join us! Feel free to post a comment on Andrew's blog so he knows you are participating! I'm going to love this challenge!

Money, Money, Money

2011-01-27T10:44:00.001-06:00

In my last post I mentioned a couple ideas I had in my head brewing to blog about. I think it's time to get them down. This one is going to be about money. Yup, money. I'm not fond of money. I wish that I could never have to worry about it again. But sadly that is not reality.

I started back full time back in September. I get paid very well for my job, but I have been living paycheck to paycheck still. I HATE IT. I'm fed up with it and need to do something about it. I've been watching a show called "Till Debt Do Us Part" on CNBC, or some channel like that. Anyway it's about couples getting out of debt, etc. It really inspired me.

At first I was a bit hesisant to blog about this, but then I realized, pffft. What do I care? So here it goes.

I'm in debt. Again. At one point in our marriage Jason and I had paid off all of our credit cards and swore to not use them again. I didn't follow that plan. Now I'm in debt. As Dave Ramsey would say, I have a Ph.D in D-U-M-B. So here I am, at age 28, still in debt. No where near I want to be financially. I decided that it's time to be smart about money again and stop acting like a kid and buying what I want when I want.

I have created a budget that I need to stick too. I've refined it a couple of times now, and it's getting better each time. I still need to do some adjusting for gift categories, and car repairs, etc. This month I forgot to budget for my tabs. That was $67.25 that I did not have set aside. Instead I raided my grocery and transportation money, and didn't put anything into my entertainment fund. But I'm learning and it is manageable. I can do this.

I've started using the envelope system again, with money in each envelope for each category. Entertainment, Groceries/Personal Care, Transportation, etc. It's working well, except that I hate fumbling with the damn envelopes. Once I get around to it, I'm going to make cute little pouches and keep all my money for the expenses in there. Maybe a cute fabric with cars on for Transportation, a fabric with food on for Groceries, etc. Then when the money is gone from that category, I can't buy anything. I've learned that I am much more careful when spending cash, rather than whipping out my debit card.

I've started to re-read the "Total Money Makeover" by Dave Ramsey again. Last night I downloaded a couple of his podcasts to listen to while I was making dinner and balancing the checkbook.

I feel like I am finally going in the right direction and have to stick with this. I know that I can do this. I want to do this.

People around me may not understand why I won't have money to go out to dinner, do retreats, and such. But I'm ok with that. I will try to save some money and put it aside for retreats, as long as I know far enough in advance to plan for it. I'm ok with living on a budget and being tight with my money right now. In the long run it will be worth it. Like Dave Ramsey says, "If you live like no one else now, later you can live like no one else." Another of my Dave Ramsey quotes is, "Normal is broke. Be weird."

I also found a forum that is based around Dave Ramsey's Baby Steps. I think this will help me out. I joined it ages ago and just stumbled upon it again. :) http://www.livinglikenooneelse.com/forum/

I do need to go through my budget again and see what I can cut and where. I really want to be out of debt.

I may post updates about this, or I might not, lol. I'm not sure. I mean it's part of me, but I've always been careful about not oversharing. This is a fine line, even for me. Maybe I will just do it on the forum. Hmmm. Decisions, decisions.

Ramblings

2011-01-26T12:03:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since I've blogged. As you can tell I started to update my blog. I thought that it would be a nice change for a clean and simple template. I haven't had the time to adjust the banner yet, but I think I will. I'm debating about changing the title of it too, but I'm not positive. I can't wait to make this feel all "at home" again. :) Sorry I've been slow about it!

I'm in the mood to ramble today, so I apologize in advance if this is a rambly post. I'm sitting at my desk at work. I love being by the windows. They are just gorgeous. Today we have some crows that keep flying by the window. The sun isn't out in full force, it was flurrying this morning. But the sun is trying to peek out. I can't tell you how much of a difference being by the windows makes. I can tell that the days are getting longer again. It's not completely dark yet when I leave work at 5 p.m.

One thing has changed since I've last posted. I turned 28 on January 24. I can't believe that I'm almost 30. It's crazy. Where has time gone?!?! My birthday was good. Jason and I spent it hanging out at the house together, we watched a couple of movies too. Jason took me out to Outback for dinner. Steak and Shrimp, YUM! And I just love their salad. It's the best with Blue Cheese dressing. So yummy. I enjoyed the last of my meal at lunch yesterday. I love having leftovers.

This month I have been reading books like mad for some reason. I have my list over at Listology, which I need to add to again. I've finished 2 more books since I last updated it. If I forgot to add the link, let me know. I'm typing this in Word right now, and I have a feeling I will forget the link. Books are like a comfort for me. I love having them around me. They are like friends to me. An escape from reality as well. I can so easily just get lost in a book. I love the escape it provides me. Though sometimes when I finish a good book, I feel like I have lost a friend and I'm a bit sad. Though I know I can always go back and re-read the book. Some authors I wish they would make a series out of books. I just get so involved in their lives.

Guess what else I did last Saturday? I went cropping for the first time in MONTHS! I had a blast! I am still working on my Cathy Zielske class Me: The Abridged Version. I got the base down for 32 8.5x11 pages. Now all I have to do is finish up all my journaling, and add embellishments and pictures. I loved the format of the pages. Clean and simple. Though I will be adding some embellishments. I also LOVED the line of paper I used. It's from "Crate Paper" and is called "Restoration." It is so ME. I bought way more than I need for my book, so I can't wait to scrap something else with it! It felt really good to get out and scrapbook with Mama Jenny and Mary. It was much needed. I still need to finish organizing my room.

I have a couple more updates, but I think I'm going to do them as separate entries. Do you have any topics that you would like me to blog about? If so, just let me know!

2011

2011-01-01T18:36:00.002-06:00

Welcome 2011!

The beginning of a new year brings lots of hope and promise for me. I always like the start of a new year. There is just something about it that makes it feel like a fresh start. You can leave everything behind and learn from the last year.

Each year I usually choose a word or phase, a la Ali Edwards, "One Word." This year I didn't pour over her old blog entries about it. I didn't read through lists and lists of words. In fact I haven't read her blog in a while now, so I don't even know if she is doing it this year. The last couple of years I have chose a word and then didn't really focus on it. I might do that this year as well, who knows what the year will hold. But one word has been nagging at me. "Embrace." I realize that sounds like an odd word for anyone to choose. But I want to Embrace life. Embrace experiences. Embrace everything that happens. Embrace the every day things.

Aside from that I don't think I'm going to make any resolutions per say. I want to work on crossing somethings off of my Bucket List. You can find my Bucket List on Listology. The highlighted items are the ones that I have accomplished. Though I"m wondering if I should change them to a strike through. I will have to check that out. :)

Children Learn What They Live

2010-12-14T15:37:00.003-06:00

Children Learn What They Live

If a child lives with criticism

he learns to condemn.

If a child lives with hostility

he learns to fight.

If a child lives with ridicule

he learns to be shy.

If a child lives with shame

he learns to feel guilty.

If a child lives with tolerance

he learns to be patient.

If a child lives with encouragement

he learns confidence.

If a child lives with praise

he learns to appreciate.

If a child lives with fairness

he learns justice.

If a child lives with security

he learns to have faith.

If a child lives with approval

he learns to like himself.

If a child lives with acceptance and friendship

he learns to love the world.

~Dorothy Law Nolte

At counselling last night, the counselor shared this with Jason and I. Just thought I would share.

Roast Chicken, Squash, and Dill Potatoes Romanoff

2010-12-05T13:52:00.004-06:00

This was my lunch today. I was going to do it for dinner, but figured that if I cooked it for lunch it gives me a lot more time to clean the mess up, LOL.

I also thought I would document how I cooked this since I really enjoyed it, and often forget these things. (I feel really old when I forget too...)

So the squash was easy. I removed the seeds and the peel, chunked it and boiled it. Once it was done, I added a little butter, brown sugar, sea salt, and pepper. I didn't measure anything, just did it to taste. Then I mashed it all together. So yummy. So easy too.

The Roast Chicken idea was thanks to Roy. He mentioned this to me and it's so easy! All I did was rub the chicken with a little bit of olive oil and season with sea salt and pepper. I was going to put thyme and rosemary on it, but I didn't have them in my cupboard. So I went simple. Then just cook it at 450 until the juices run clear and the chicken is a lovely brown. It's so easy and oh so yummy.

I got the recipe for Dill Potatoes Romanoff from the Cooking for 2 magazine. Though today I tripled the batch so I would have leftovers and my potatoes needed to be used up. But this recipe is for 2 servings.

Dill Potatoes Romanoff

2 cups cubed potatoes

2/3 cup cottage cheese

1/3 cup sour cream

1 tbsp all purpose flour

1 tbsp dried minced onion

1/4 tsp dill weed

1/8 tsp salt

1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Boil potatoes until done. In a blender puree the cottage cheese, sour cream, and flour. Pour into a large bowl. Stir in the dill and salt. Add potatoes and toss gently.

Transfer to a baking dish coated with nonstick cooking spray. Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese, bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

Makes 2 servings.

Menu Plan, Money, and Ramblings!

2010-12-04T20:39:00.003-06:00

Thankfully my migraine from Thursday and Friday is gone. I think I figured out the trigger for that one. Stress, plus I ate bananas. I must remember to not buy bananas.

This afternoon (after my nap, oh how I love my naps!) I made a menu plan. I decided to not make it by the day, but just make sure I have enough food for a few meals with leftovers. Here is what I'm going to make this week and possibly next.

Roast Chicken Legs and Dill Romanoff Potatoes and Squash

Broiled Tilapia

Cilantro Lime Shrimp with Cilantro Lime Rice

Rice and Beans

I have various frozen veggies in the freezer, and some lettuce salad as well. Believe it or not I had most of this on hand. I did pick up some chicken legs for $1.49 for I think 3 pounds. I didn't think that was a bad price.

What killed my grocery budget was that I had to put shampoo, conditioner, and mousse. With my curly hair, I hate using the el cheapo products. They just make my hair a tangled mess. I ended up spending a little over $10 on hair products. Ugh. I hate that, but it's necessary now that I'm working full time and have to look professional. I wish I had the money for the Aveda products, but I just don't. So instead I settle for less ones.

You know I started talking about a budget and did not explain anything. I'm started to re-read my Dave Ramsey book and found a show on CNBC called "Til Debt Do Us Part." Between Dave and Gail Vaz-Oxlade on "Til Debt Do Us Part." I've been really inspired to get my money situation in order. I've made a couple of budgets and started doing the money envelope system. I think I have to make some adjustments, but I know I'm on the right track. :) I'd love to hear your favorite financial blogs/websites. Or if you post about financial stuff! I'm looking forward to being on track, though I still think that Money Sucks, lol. :)

VIntage

2010-11-30T20:30:00.003-06:00

I am loving anything and everything vintage lately. While up at the Bruno Thrift Store, I got a ton of amazing deals! I got an entire bag of doilies, lace, and many other things for a grand total of $5! I couldn't believe how big it is. I want to go back again soon. :)

While I was up there, I found these two tea cups. I've been on the hunt for some to put on my desk at work. I wanted to put my post it notes in one since they keep getting lost on my desk. I was going to use the other one for paper clips, but I won Bingo at work and decided to put my truffles in there instead!

Aren't the tea cups adorable?

Comfy

2010-11-29T19:46:00.004-06:00

Here I am all comfy in bed. With a cocoon of blankets wrapped around me.

While up north, Ma was holding Ethan and covered one of his ears with his blanket. He went right to sleep. That got us to discussing how we all cover one ear with our blanket and we can't fall asleep unless it's covered, even if it's 100 degrees outside we have to have the sheet over our ear. I do this, Susan, and Julie do this. Ma does this. Lynette also does it. The next day at Lynette's shower, we asked Grandma and she did this too! She also mentioned that Great Grandma did it. It must be something that is passed down on our side of the family. Lynette said that she would start doing this to Ethan too. :)

Norwex!

2010-11-28T18:35:00.005-06:00

I am so excited! My Norwex order arrived today! Yay!!!! :D Here is a picture of what I got. You will want to click on it, to make it bigger to see all the words.

Now here is what all I got!

Dishwashing Liquid--It's phosphate free and biodegradable!
Dish Cloth--This is mainly just netting (nylon) but it is great for removing flour dough from countertops! I have issues with that, so that is why I got it.
Spirsisponge--This is a scrubber that is safe for use on Teflon and flat top stoves. I got 2 of these!
Tea Towel Set- (1 Tea Towel and 1 Kitchen Cloth) This is made from antibac Microfiber. Since it is antibac and dries quickly you supposedly don't get that sour smell from dish cloths/towels. I can't wait to see if this is true. Even leaving a cloth out for a day it gets that icky smell and I HATE it.
Kitchen Cloth Set--(Set of 3)-, Read above. :)
Enviro Cloth--(1, 13"x13" cloth)--Once again this is made from antibacterial microfiber. It can be used on all washable surfaces and removes dust, dirt, and grease. This thing is AMAZING.
Enviro Cloth Travel Pack-Set of 4, 6"x6" cloths. Read above, same thing, just smaller!
Optic Cloth with Case--You can use this to clean eyeglasses, camera lenses, computer screens, cd's, etc. I needed a new cloth to clean my glasses and thought it was worth the try!
Window Cloth--You can use this to clean or polish windows, mirrors, jewelry, etc. You ONLY use water with this. It's AMAZING. I was sold on this.
Dusting Mitt--This is once again antibac microfiber, and you use it for dusting. Can't wait to try this out!
Body Pack--(Set of 3 cloths)--These are once again antibac microfiber. These are made for removing make up, regular facial cleansing, exfoliating, or in the shower. This is one of the 2 things that I bought at Mama Jenny's Norwex Party. These are WORTH EVERY PENNY. You use these on your face with just water, NO CLEANSER. I have found that since using these my face breaks out MUCH LESS. It's AMAZING. Worth every penny! So happy that I have a 2nd set now!
Dryer Balls--I've been wanting a set of these for a while now! I'm so excited to try these out! You put both of them in your dryer, and start the dryer. The dryer balls lifts and separates the laundry while softening fabric. It reduces drying time, static clean, and removes wrinkles naturally. NO NEED TO USE FABRIC SOFTENER! :D
Bathroom Scrub Mitt--This has microfiber fabric on one side and a scrub mesh on the other. I can't wait to try this with the descaler that Jason bought!
Magnet Ball---The Magnet ball prevents calcium molecules from building up in dishwashers and washing machines. I can't wait to try this out in my dish washer as I HATE all of that crap on glasses.
Washing Bag--(Ok, it's really called a Washing Net, but whatever :P) It's a mesh bag, that has 2 layers of mesh, which allows the water to flow through the bag optimal cleaning. It's great for washing all your microfiber cloths or delicates.

I am so excited by all of this! I can't wait to see what products that I can get rid of. The more natural way of cleaning the better, in my opinion. :D

A Father's Love

2010-11-27T18:42:00.002-06:00

First watch this video:

This song reminds me of dad. He's a mechanic. He helped me with my first car and worked on it and made sure that it was a good car for me. He has always done this for me with all my cars. I've called him from Rochester, knowing that he can't come down and help me, but some how he is able to diagnose the car over the phone if it's making an odd sound or something. Just knowing I have someone who I can call with car questions is a god send.

The Kia is getting older, and since it is, there are more repairs that are needed. When the car couldn't start in September, and the dealership tried to rip me off, Dad drove 2 1/2 hours down to fix my car.

I'm up north for Thanksgiving right now, and he wanted to take my car in to just look it over before winter came. Dad took it to the shop today and checked it over. He ended up replacing the thermostat. He won't take a dime for it. Not only that he filled up my gas tank and refused to take money for that.

It's just one of the ways that Dad shows me that he loves me. I think you can tell why this song makes me think of him.

Black Friday!

2010-11-26T22:56:00.003-06:00

For the first time in as long as I can remember, I haven't gone shopping on Black Friday! Wow! I don't feel like I missed anything since I didn't even get the paper to look at the ads, lol. I kinda missed it, but enjoyed a day with the family. :)

Lynette and Ethan came over this evening! Of course I had to hold and love on Ethan. :) He is just such a cute little bundle of joy! I can't believe that he was 4 weeks early. He is just so perfect! Lynette and I scrapbooked 5 pages of Ethan and while we were doing that my sisters were taking pictures of Ethan. This picture below just makes me smile. :)

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T19:42:00.002-06:00

This year I am so thankful for my family, friends, and to have a job that I enjoy. I am beyond blessed. There is so much to be thankful for this year.

Today I did Thanksgiving with the Nelson crew! It was great seeing everyone, but also bittersweet. It just wasn't the same without Grandpa Nelson being there. It just seemed like a huge void. I miss him so much. I know I didn't see him often, but he meant so much to me. I honestly view him and Grandma as a second set of parents to me. As I write this, I am sitting in Grandpa's chair. No one ever sat in the chair except for him. I miss him so much.

Exhausted

2010-11-24T17:25:00.002-06:00

For some reason I'm exhausted today. No idea why. I went to be around 11 and got up around 9. I slept ok. I didn't do hardly anything today. Mom took Susan and I to the casino and then came back and visited with Lynette. I made my coconut cake for Thanksgiving tomorrow.

I'm so thankful that I came up north last night. Today it's snowing and we were getting about an inch an hour. I'm so thankful to be with my family and all nice and cozy in the house.

Road Trip!

2010-11-23T21:54:00.002-06:00

I headed up north tonight to spend Thanksgiving with my family! On the way up, I had a blast. I have forgotten how much I enjoy driving on the quiet roads. I'll admit I did speed a bit, shhhhhh. I cranked the radio and sang my heart out. It has been a long time since I've done that. I mean I'll crank the radio in town and sing, but not sing at the top of my lungs. It was a wonderful 2 1/2 hour drive up. Though my throat is a bit sore from all the singing! I'm looking forward to this vacation!!! :D

Oh and I managed to beat the icky weather! Even better!

My 3's

2010-11-22T19:51:00.002-06:00

Since I've been getting inky tonight, I don't really want to think about what to blog about. I was tagged in this note on Facebook and thought that it would make a great blog entry!

Three Jobs I've had
1. Nursing Assistant
2. Administrative Assistant
3. Cashier at a Scrapbook Store

Three Places I've Lived
1. Kerrick, MN
2. Finlayson, MN
3. Rochester, MN

Three Favorite Drinks
1. Ice Tea
2. Coke from a can, in a glass glass, with 3 ice cubes
3. Ice cold water

Three TV Shows that I Watch
1. Glee
2. Hoarders
3. Chopped

Three Places I've Been
1. Rapid City, SD
2. Duluth, MN
3. Wyoming

Three of My Favorite Foods
1. Cheese
2. Sourdough Bread
3. Cookie Dough

Three Friends I think (hope) will respond
1. Linn
2. My Captivating Images
3. Susan

Three of my favorite colors
1. Pink (BRIGHT)
2. Black
3. Red

Three of my favorite types of candy
1. Mounds
2. 3 Musketeers
3. Dove Dark Chocolate

Three Things I'm Looking Forward to
1. Thanksgiving with my family.
2. Seeing Ethan (and family) again. Giving Lynette her gift!
3. Christmas. I just love the season.

Three Things that are ALWAYS by My side
1. Phone
2. Book
3. Notebook and pen.

Three Things in my car right now
1. Lots of reuseable bags

2. Scrapbook supplies

3. Dirt. (I REALLY need to clean my car, it's driving me NUTS.)

Three Things I did Today
1. Survived a slow day at work.
2. Got inky with my scrapbook supplies!
3. Talked to Ma on the phone.

Currently

2010-11-21T15:37:00.003-06:00

Sitting: At the dining room table on my laptop, with bills and budget stuff, and lists spread around me.

Watching: The slight breeze blow the leaves outside.

Wearing: Super comfy knit pants and my Twilight t-shirt. Comfies are made for Sunday's.

Drinking: A can of Coke in my red polka dot glass, with 3 ice cubes. Love.

Scrapping: Linn's Scrapbooked Postcard. Gotta get that out soon! So sorry Linn that it's been so long!

Hoping: That the weather will be good for my trip up north for Thanksgiving.

Loving: The Apple Jack Scentsy type thing I have melting. My house smells like fall. The cool crisp air outside. Time with friends and family. Hugs. Bubble Baths. Headache Free days.

Listening to: A document of the Amish on National Geographic TV.

Note: I stole this from Lisa at The Moments in Between. If you get a chance, you should check out her blog. Full of inspiration and fun.

Reading Nook

2010-11-20T23:34:00.000-06:00

The fabulous Linn recently sent me a scrapbooked postcard from Germany! I loved it and thought since I very rarely get fun mail, I thought I would keep it up. That same day I was organizing my reading nook and thought it would fit perfect on my little stand that is by my chair. Since Linn also loves to read, I thought it was perfect. Linn wanted to see it, so I snapped this quick picture. :)

Btw, the shall on the back of the chair was one that Mom gave me growing up. I don't remember if it was hers or one of the grandma's but I just love it. :)

Acupuncture

2010-11-19T13:53:00.003-06:00

I'm fed up with my migraines and headaches. I just can't deal with them anymore. I am so over them. I feeling like I'm being pumped full of pills for no reason since they are not helping. I'll be honest, I'm ready to go off all my pills and just say fuck it and be done with doctors.

Last week while I was off work with migraines, I got to thinking that I should look into acupuncture as that has been known to help other people. I'm not afraid of needles, and it's not a pill. (I think Dr.'s prescribe pills way too easily now days, but that's just me.) And really, what do I have to lose by trying it?

Earlier this week, I went to lunch with one of my former co-workers, Debbie. During lunch I mentioned acupuncture to her and she said that Mayo offers acupuncture! I was SHOCKED! I kinda view acupuncture as a holistic medicine and didn't think that Mayo would support/provide that. Turns out they do! It's a very small area, and apparently you have to have a referral to go there, and my primary care doctor gave me one! I called earlier this week on it and have an appointment set up for December 8.

After I set up my appointment I got to thinking that perhaps my Mayo insurance would cover it....I wasn't hopeful, but was kinda hoping that they would cover 50% of it. I called MMSI (our insurance provider) and asked. It is covered 90% as long as it is for a medical reason and the doctor giving the acupuncture fills out a pre-determination form. I called and asked him to fill one out. Now to wait and hear back, but I am hopeful.

I am SHOCKED. 100% SHOCKED. I was bracing myself for the whole "no we do not cover that" line. I am very thankful for my insurance. VERY BLESSED.

Oh and I'll post an update after I have the acupuncture done!

Light Bulb Moment

2010-11-18T11:58:00.004-06:00

Today I had a light bulb moment thanks to Noell Hyman from Paperclipping, which is a scrapbooking video podcast and live show. Today she posted an article on "How to be Organized with you have 29 Unfinished Projects."

That article is amazing. I mean I can organize and such, but who would have thought to organize your unfinished projects with all the materials needed to complete it?! Why didn't I think of that? DUH!

Next time I am at IKEA I am going to get some of the lovely 12x15 boxes, as Noell noted, they are amazing for storing 12x12 paper plus embellishments in! Once everything is contained in the box, you can simply grab it for a crop and go. WOW!

I am so inspired by this post! I can't wait to get all my unorganized, unfinished projects together!

Notes from picture: Taken last week while I was working on organizing my scrapbook room. Still lots to go, but some progress is being made! :D

List Love

2010-11-17T16:07:00.003-06:00

I'm sure that I have titled many posts before "List Love" or something very similar. I just love lists. I know I get that from Ma and Grandma as they were always writing a list.

I remember one time Ma found one of Grandma's list. Grandpa read Grandma's lists, but didn't really help cross stuff off. Amongst all of the to-do's, Grandma was very busy, one item on her list was "fart." It makes me smile thinking about that. She had so much to get done that day, she didn't even have time to fart. :)

Today while going through my Google Reader, I noticed one of my favorite blogs had updates. Now this is a big thing, since they don't update all that often. The blog is called "To-Do List." On it there are pictures of peoples to do lists. I just love reading them. Maybe I have a bit of a voyeur in me.

For some reason today's post got me thinking about my lists. I write so many different lists, some electronically, some by hand. I'm wondering if I should randomly start saving them. I think that they capture part of my life. With my to do's and such. Would it be odd to save them? Or perhaps take a picture and save them? Maybe one day scrapbook them?

What are your thoughts on this?

Sleep

2010-11-16T21:17:00.002-06:00

I need sleep tonight. Nothing has gone my way this evening. Ugh. Just a rough evening. Some nights I hate paying bills, lol.

But on the positive side of things, here is an inspiring quote that I found and love. :) It is so going to go in my book nook. :) I hope to post a real entry tomorrow. :)

"A home without books is a body without soul." ~Marcus Tullius Cicero

Decorating

2010-11-15T16:02:00.003-06:00

Now that my apartment is all clean, I'm so excited to start decorating it! I'm going to go for a vintage inspired look.

Here are some things that I'm hoping to do, in list form, of course!

I have a bunch of flour sack towels that Grandma embroidered. I'm planning to "frame" them in embroidery hoops, and hang them on the wall, pinning the backs so they are all in circle form. I'm debating about painting the wooden hoops, but I don't know for sure.
I have an art print from a Twitter friend of a housewife, that I'm going to frame and hang in the dining room.
I ordered a silk screened print of some beaters off of Etsy. That is going to be framed as well, and hang in the dining room. I want to paint that frame a turquoise/aqua color. My colors for the kitchen/dinging room/living room are going to be turquoise/aqua I think.
One of my friends has a Cricut cartridge with a lot of vintage kitchen images. Since my cupboards are a cream color and are standard apartment issue, I'm going to cut some images out of vinyl and put on my cupboards to dress them up a bit. I think I even have all the vinyl I need!
Dining room curtain needs to be made. I have the fabric for it! Red and white polka dots! Looks very vintage in my opinion! I'm kinda scared to make it though.
The living room needs some "art" on the walls. I think I"m going to decorate some canvas. Either paint or use scrapbook paper in them. Best part, I already have the canvas and paint!
I have my little reading nook almost all set up! All that it needs is a "curtain" to cover the door that leads into the water heater, etc. I already have this fabric, and I LOVE it!
I want to get a print of books or something to hang behind my chair.
Eventually I want to cover the chair that I have there. It's just an IKEA rocking chair, that is SO COMFY but I bought the cheapest cushion for it, and it's plain black. I need to find some fun fabric for it.
In my hallway, I'm going to put the hope chest that Grandpa made me. I think above it I want to get an enlargement of a picture of Grandpa and I. I miss grandpa so much.
I'm also tempted to do a "Photo Wall" on the wall that you can see directly from the living room.
My bathroom is pretty much done, just want to get a couple things to put on the walls.
My craftroom needs to be organized before I do anything. I have some pictures, knick knacks and such that I want to put up.
My bedroom. I can't do much in there due to space. But I really want to get something on the wall above my head and the wall to the left of the bed. I don't know what though. My comforter is very pink and turquoise. I LOVE it. But I think when I finish my quilt that I've been working on for years, that will go on the bed. So I think I'm going to go a shabby/chic type thing. I don't know for sure though.

I have the decorating bug now. I've never really decorated before and I hope that I can pull stuff together like I imagine. I have a vision in my head that I want to get out. A little bit at a time. :)

Only 40 days!

2010-11-14T22:31:00.002-06:00

Did you know that there are only 40 days until Christmas?! Can I freak out yet? Actually, I won't be, I hope. :)

This pay day I'm going to start Christmas shopping! I remember the days when I used to be done by October 1. It seems as I get older, the closer to Christmas I get. I'm going to start making my lists, and get a few things knocked off. I have a few ideas for the hard to get people on my list. :) It's not going to be a big, extravagant Christmas this year, but I'm fine with that. Low key is good. :)

But before Christmas is Thanksgiving. Since my workplace is closed on the day after Thanksgiving, I'm debating about heading up north on Wednesday after work and spending a long Thanksgiving weekend up there. It's so tempting. I may not be able to do shopping on the day after Thanksgiving, but the more I think about it, the more fine I am with that. With Grandpa passing this year, I feel the need to be by my family. I don't know if that is normal or odd.

What are your plans for the holidays? Have you started on Christmas shopping yet? What are some of your favorite, cheap/homemade gifts that you have either received or given?

Almost Forgot!

2010-11-13T22:56:00.002-06:00

I almost forgot to blog today! Whoops!!

Today was spent sleeping in, then starting to clean a bit, then went to Haley and Cassidy's birthday party. (My nieces.) It was good to see Jason's family and the girls LOVED their presents. They both got books and Cassidy also got a bit of fabric since she has a sewing machine now. She really enjoyed it. Yay!

Despite taking my naproxen before the birthday party, I still got a headache. :( I came home and napped until almost 6 p.m. I couldn't believe I slept that long! Apparently I needed it. After my nap I ended up starting to organize and clean more for my Norwex party on Monday. I'm looking forward to it. :)

I made good progress in the kitchen, dining room, and living room. While cleaning I realized how much I like the shape of my apartment. I can start in one room and work my way to the back of the apartment. It works really well.

Now I'm off to head to bed and read for a bit and then get up tomorrow and finish. I was hoping to have my scrapbook room done and organized, but that won't happen. Oh well, it will get done, just not before Monday. :)

Hope everyone had a great Saturday! :)

A 4 letter word....

2010-11-12T22:28:00.002-06:00

S-N-O-W

I'm so not ready for snow. Granted it is almost mid-November and we typically have had snow by now, but I'm still not ready for it. Today we had a lovely rain/snow mix. Thankfully the snow only stuck on the grass and I'm sure is gone by now. Why can't I live somewhere here it only snows a couple days before Christmas, stays through Christmas and then it goes away.

This is what it looked like around 5 p.m. by my apartment.

Controversial Post?

2010-11-11T14:58:00.004-06:00

Warning: This may be a controversial post...but I need to get my feelings out about this. I have my flame proof suit zipped on as well, if you want to share your honest opinion on this post. I would love to know your opinion on it.

I stayed home sick with a migraine yesterday and today. Thankfully the migraine broke around noon today. I decided to take it easy the rest of the day, and turned the tv on for a bit of background noise. I found the shower I'm Pregnant And....(it's on TLC). I've watched it before and found it semi-interesting. Not interesting enough to tune in routinely, but if nothing else is on, I will watch it.

So today I watched one called "I'm Pregnant And...55 years old." When this couple was married (I believe 12 years ago) they froze some of Kathy's (the mom) embryos in hopes to be parents one day. Kathy is 55 and her husband is 64.

I have no problem with fertility treatments or people getting pregnant or adopting at an advanced age. If they have a plan. This couple has no family closer. The dad has a 35 year old daughter and 2 grandchildren, but she did not want to be a guardian. The baby has no guardian. Who would take care of this baby is something happened to them?

I also don't think that it is fair to the child to have parents at that age. I mean when the baby graduates at 18, the mom will be 73 and the dad will be 82. WOW! How is that fair to the child? The child who will be essentially still be a child himself may have to take care of his parents at that age. He may have to put his parents in a nursing home at that age? What about his life?

Maybe I'm just being bitter that I haven't been able to get pregnant. That very well could be. But I'm just concerned about the children of these parents. Is this fair to them? Am I out of line with my opinion? I'd honestly love to hear your thoughts.

Not today

2010-11-10T17:21:00.002-06:00

No real blog post today. I'm feeling awful and stayed home from work due to a migraine. It's not going away either. :( It wavers a bit, and then it's back full force.

So today for my blog post, you get a picture. I took this before the time change, and it's my view at work in the morning. I love my desk.

LIFE

2010-11-09T11:58:00.002-06:00

I had a few blog entries bouncing around in my head today, but I decided to not do any of them.

Marah Johnson posted this on Facebook and I just had to share. I am going to print this out, frame it, and hang it where I can see it everyday.

This is something that EVERYONE should remember.

Challenging Myself

2010-11-08T05:41:00.000-06:00

Lately I haven't been eating well. I've been eating out waaaay too much. I've been really good about bringing my lunch to work, but in the evening I haven't been good at all. I've been sucking bad. I've succumbed to fast food again. Ugh. Not a good thing. Oh and generally eating like crap. I'm really good at finding excuses too. I've worked all day, I'm exhausted, I deserve to eat out, etc.

So I've decided to challenge myself. Starting today, November 8, I am not going to eat out for at least a month. I'm going to eat all meals at home. No eating out. No wasting money. Being much healthier in the long run. I've done this before and I can do it again. It's going to be hard and suck, but I'm going to do it. I know I can.

So in order to help me out here, I'd love for you to share or link me to some of your favorite, easy, recipes.

December Daily

2010-11-07T13:31:00.012-06:00

Each year Ali Edwards does a December Daily. You can read about it on her blog. Back in 2008, I did the December daily and honestly, it is one of my favorite scrapbook projects that I have done. I recently started talking to the wonderful Linn about scrapbooking, and got her hooked. :) I started talking to her a bit about the December Daily as I was debating about doing it again this year. She is going to jump right in and do it! I can imagine she feels overwhelmed, so I'm going to share my take on Ali's December Daily album and some tips on how I did it to de-stress it a bit.

First up the book itself! This is going to be VERY image heavy, but I hope that you all will think it's worth it and enjoy it. :)

Now that you have seen my book, I'm going to give you my tips and tricks that I used. Take what you want, and leave what you don't. :)

I started to put the book together ahead of time. I made the pages, covered them with paper, and added some embellishments. Not many, but a couple.
To make the pages, I used chipboard, and cut them down to size. I wasn't concerned about other page edges going through.
I used the Christmas paper and embellishments that I had on hand. There are at least 3 lines of paper in there and many, many different brands of embellishments.
One thing that I did not do, that Ali did, is that I did not work on this each day. I did not have my book completed at the end of December. I was ok with that! I took pictures throughout the holiday season, and blogged them with a bit of journaling. The days that I did not have pictures, I added in Christmas memories, etc. It is fine if every page does not have a picture or journaling. This book is for you, there are no rules.
If I remember right, I didn't actually finish my book until March, 2009, lol. But you know what, I was ok with that! I did it on my own time, and loved how it turned out in the end.
On some days, I had lots more pictures that I wanted to share. What I did was punch holes in them using the Crop a Dial and ran ribbon through the holes, and tied it in loose knots, so that I could still flip through the pictures. I adhered the back picture to my book.
The most important thing about this book is to do it how you want. Do whatever you want! There is no right or wrong with it.

I hope this post encourages others to try out the December Daily. It is a wonderful way to capturing those Christmas memories. If any of you have questions about how I did mine, fire away!

Sing Along Saturday

2010-11-06T22:24:00.002-05:00

I thought that sharing a few of the songs that I have been listening to lately might be fun. So today is Sing Along Saturday! If I'm going to do this more often I might even make a banner thing, and invite others to participate since I can never have too much music and I'm always looking for something new.

So in no particular order here are a few songs that I have been listening to a lot lately.

"On the Wings of a Snow White Dove" by Ferlin Husky

I've been listening to this a lot lately since it reminds me of Grandpa Nelson. I've really been missing him. I've realized lately that I haven't been dealing with his death well. But that's a whole different blog entry. The old style country is what Grandpa used to love. This song makes me feel closer to Grandpa somehow. And yes, it was played at his funeral.

"Comfortably Numb" by Pink Floyd

Growing up Dad used to listen to a lot of Pink Floyd and for the past couple of years or so I've been listening to more and more of it. "Comfortably Numb" has become part of playlists a lot recently.

"Runaway" by Love and Theft

This song has made my rotation since some days I would love to just sell everything, pack my bags and drive off to a new place. I think most people have that dream that they can just do that....

"Felt Good on my Lips" by Tim McGraw

This is a new song that I just love to sing around too! It sounds so different than most of Tim McGraw's songs, but it makes me just want to crank the music and sing.

"All I Want for Christmas is a Real Good Tan" by Kenny Chesney

Yes, I have been listening to Christmas music already. I just love me some Christmas Music. One day I am going to spend Christmas on the islands somewhere....

"Stuck Like Glue" by Sugarland

Ok, I have to say first of all. I HATE this video. Jenniffer Nettles (the lead singer) just annoys me. I can't stand her. But this song keeps getting stuck in my head. Though it could do without the whole country rap part. That annoys me. But I do like this song.

"Summer of '69" by Bryan Adams

This song I've always loved. Been listening to a fair amount of various 80's songs as well lately.

"Thinking 'Bout Somethin'" by Hanson

This song makes me just want to get up and dance!!! I grew up in the 90's, of course I still love boybands!!!

"Sweet Little '66" by Steve Earle

Once again, Ma and Dad used to listen to a fair amount of Steve Earle, and of course I HATED it, lol. But I've been listening to a lot of it. Unfortunately youtube does not have a fabulous version of this song, but I'm sure you can find one if you want to download the track.

"Get Off on the Pain" by Gary Allan

I just love Gary Allan. I really need to get his new CD that came out a while ago. I really enjoy his music.

I suppose I should stop now before I don't have any to do this again! And if you are looking for a new CD to pick up, check out Jason Aldean's newest CD "My Kinda Party." I really need to see Jason in concert again. He is AMAZING!!

Finally Friday!

2010-11-05T19:13:00.003-05:00

I always think of this song on Friday's. :)

I'm going to be honest. I don't want to blog today. It was a long day. I didn't sleep good last night for some reason. Today at work was crazy busy, I mean I didn't even have time to take a lunch, so busy! That's not typical at all! But I still love my new job. :) I'm just happy that the day flew by.

Honestly you know what sounds good right now? A nice, hot, long bubble bath, and laying in bed adn watching a movie. :) I think I might just go and do that. :)

Tweet Your 16 Year Old Self

2010-11-04T19:03:00.002-05:00

On Twitter today I noticed that there was a trending topic called "#TweetYour16YearOldSelf" and throughout the day I was thinking of some things that I would tell myself in my younger years. Not necessarily when I was 16 but throughout my school years. I was thinking that it would be a good blog post, so here I am.

You aren't fat. You are healthy and gorgeous. Believe it. Don't worry about trying to lose weight or changing. Don't think that you are fat. You look good and healthy. You will look back and wish that you still looked that good.
It doesn't matter what people think of you. Be yourself. Embrace yourself.
Live your life for you. No one else.
Don't try to be perfect. No one can be perfect.
Don't try to live up to everyone's expectations of you.
Don't give up on your goals.
It's ok to go out and party once in a while and come home late. Those are part of the teenage years. You will regret that later in life.
Don't ever sell the Thunderbird.
Confide in your friends when stuff goes wrong. When you feel like you have no one to turn too.
Don't attempt suicide.
Take the scholarship to St. Scholastica. Live in the dorms. Enjoy that part of life. You will regret it if you don't.
Don't be so responsible all the time. It's ok to let your hair down once in a while.
Buy 2 pairs of those awesome Tommy Hilfiger jeans. You look awesome in them.
Chase those hopes and dreams you have.
Spend more time with Grandma and Grandpa. They won't be around forever.
Don't be in such a hurry to grow up. Enjoy life.
Experiment with makeup. Have fun with it.
Dye your hair whatever color you want. It will wash out eventually or you can always re-dye it.
It's ok to wear your hair curly every now and then. Embrace it.
Rock out to the music you like. Don't worry about what anyone else thinks.
Dance at the school dances. Don't worry about what you look like dancing. It's fun!
When the girls want to go to a club, go!
Follow your heart.
Buy stock in Apple or Google with your spare money.
Try not to be so shy.
Don't fall for credit cards. Use cash only.
Push for braces.
Do what you want to do, not what you think everyone wants you to do.
Most importantly, enjoy all the good times with your friends. Laugh a lot. It's the best thing ever.

Ramblings

2010-11-03T19:28:00.003-05:00

Tonight I feel like writing, but I'm not sure about what. I've toyed with a few ideas from my list, but none of them speak to me today. So I'll do a rambling list of thoughts.

Today I gave a presentation on Outlook Calendar Best Practices to my work group. I HATE speaking in front of people, but I did it anyway. I think it went really well and afterwards people kept coming up to me and thanking me for giving it. I think everyone learned a lot. One person even told me that she is going to call me "Awesome Amber" from now on, lol.
I am seriously behind on reading and commenting on blogs. I'm debating about moving my old Google reader account to a new one and weaning down on the blogs I follow.
Speaking of following blogs, I'm so sad to see some of my favorites seem to be turning commercialized now. It seems like they are constantly giving sponsor items away and that most posts are about the products. That makes me very sad as I miss the real posts from them. :(
I'm not ready for winter. I wish it could be 50-60 degrees and sunny all year around. Getting down to the 30's/40's at night. That would be ideal for me.
I've been falling behind on cleaning and putting things away in the apartment. I've been feeling so exhausted lately. Not a good thing.
I'm planning to go to bed early tonight and hopefully that will help.
I've been listening to Christmas music already.
I really need to create a new playlist. I've started it, but haven't finished.
Speaking of music, I should share some of my favorite songs lately. Anyone interested in that?
Books make me happy.
I have a think for stationary and office supplies. Odd.
I've been meaning to go to the Salvation Army and look for a couple of things for my desk at work. I have a vision in my head and need to find a couple things.
I haven't been spending a ton of time online lately. That makes me happy.
I've been devouring books like crazy.
One can never have too many books.
I want a good program to track/organize my books. Anyone have any ideas?
I really want a bookplate/library checkout system for my books. Like this from uncommon goods. :D
It sounds like there is a heard of elephants running around upstairs. I think my things are going to start falling off my walls.
I have a vision for my living room and kitchen. I just need to get ambition to do it.

Ethan

2010-11-02T20:18:00.003-05:00

My cousin Lynette had a baby on October 13. His name is Ethan and he is the cutest baby ever! Lynette and Cliff were nice enough to let me watch Ethan when he was only 10 days old! He is just so damn adorable and I hardly put him down while I was there. That new baby smell..mmmmm. Here is a quick picture of the two of us. Whenever he was on my shoulder he was holding my shirt in his little fist. He is just so adorable. It makes me wish I were a mom. Instead I'll be "Auntie" Amber since Lynette is an only child and spoil Ethan so much!

NaBloPoMo, again!

2010-11-01T17:41:00.003-05:00

Last year I decided to participate in NaBloPoMo again! If you don't know what that is, you can read my entry last year. In reading that post again, I wonder if it is summer and early fall that I start to slack off on blog posting. It's kinda odd. I do know that I definitely go through peaks and valleys in blog posting, but I wonder if some are seasonal.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to blogging daily. I've been "writing" entries, but not getting them out here. I start thinking of them on lunch, in the shower, in the car, etc, and then when I sit down I feel as if I can't word what I wanted to say in a good way. Does that make sense? It does in my world!

Here are a couple things I want to blog about this month. Hopefully it will serve as a reminder if I can't think of something to blog about! I also, have my trusty Journal Jar too! I found it while unpacking some boxes from my scrapbook room!

And of course, in list form, a few ideas.

Scrapbook Classes--Me A:Z; Journal Your Christmas
December Daily (Share my completed book!)
Update on new job
Update on apt
Recipes, cooking, baking
Share various pictures
Ethan
Marriage Counselling
Scrapbook room

And of course I had a ton more, but can't think right now! Also, my tummy is growling at me, so I suppose I should go find something for dinner!

I'm really excited about NaBloPoMo! :D

2010-10-20T20:43:00.002-05:00

Have you ever looked back on your life and realize that this is where you thought you would be in life?

Tonight for some reason I'm in this mood and reflecting...and honestly, it's not a good thing.

Right now I'm 27. By this age, this is how I always imagined it would be.

I thought that by this age that I would be happily married, with 2.3 kids. Like the typical American family. I would be a stay at home mom for the children while my husband worked. I would have meals on the table, homemade, and would spend hours playing with the kids and scrapbooking a bit as time allowed. I would be living up north somewhere closer to my family. I wouldn't have to worry about money. I would have a large garden. Before I got married I would have traveled through Europe. I would have gone on vacations to Florida, California, and I would be very close to my family. Grandpa would have held my first born child. We would have a 3 generation photo taken.

It makes me feel like I am a failure. I know that I shouldn't feel that way, but I do. How wrong is it to feel this way? I know that I shouldn't look back, but I do. I wish I could simply look forward and move forward.....

Taco Soup (recipe)

2010-09-23T11:25:00.003-05:00

I made this for dinner last night and a few people have asked me for the recipe. Here it is. :)

Taco Soup

1 ½ lbs hamburger (I’ve made it with 1 pound just fine. Just not as meaty)
1 onion, chopped
16 oz can tomato sauce (I used diced tomatoes instead)
8 oz can tomato sauce
3 cups water
2 cans whole kernel corn, don’t drain
2 cans kidney beans, don’t drain (I usually do 1 can black beans, 1 can kidney beans)
1 pkg taco seasoning
1 (4.5 oz) can green chilies
1 pkg Hidden Valley Ranch original buttermilk dressing
Garlic Powder to taste

Brown the hamburger and onion. Season the meat as you wish. I usually toss in pepper, garlic powder, season-all, and onion powder.

Add the other ingredients and bring to a boil. Simmer for at least ½ hour, stirring frequently.

Serve with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and chips or Fritos. I usually skip the chips and just use sour cream and shredded cheese.

You can also make this with chicken and it’s really good too.

Password Protecting

2010-09-20T14:57:00.002-05:00

I haven't updated a lot here lately. Part of the reason is that I haven't felt like publizing what is going on in my life. In the past I have always been fairly good about being open and honest. Sharing what I want to share on my blog since it is mine. But lately I haven't been. Part of that is because I don't want to upset anyone by sharing my thoughts and feelings. I've always felt like I could do that in all places of my blog. I've toyed with starting a private journal, even a handwritten one, since I love paper, and books and such so much. But I just can't see myself sitting down to write in it by hand. So here I am. I've finally decided to password protect my blog. If you are interested in reading it, please contact me via Facebook, Twitter, or email. gamerbabe360 (at) yahoo .com

Apartment

2010-08-27T20:52:00.000-05:00

I'm getting ready to move into an apartment, in fact I started to move in today! I signed the papers and got the keys yesterday! I'm so darn excited. :) I just love the apartment and can't wait to make it mine.

Today I did something I have never done before. I went and picked out and bought furniture!!

I figured I should start with something in the living room since I have no living room furniture at all. I was going to get a couch and loveseat, and possibly an oversized chair, but I seen this and loved it. It looks much better in person than in this picture, but oh well! Since all of the walls are white, I opted for a rich, dark brown that I loved. It's called Cafe. I was thinking that I could accent with a teal or turquoise. I'm not sure though, we will see what I love!

Then I was going to move the daybed and the matress that I had when I was back home....but I kinda wanted something bigger. I was going to go for a full sized bed, and bed frame, but the mattress that I found was a queen, and it was actually cheaper than a full in the other bed I was thinking about, since it was on special. Plus I liked the one that I got a little bit better, and it wasn't just because of the price.

ANYWAY, I found this bed that I fell in love with.

And the the least fun of all of them is the mattress, but I look forward to sleeping on it, and not getting poked with springs like the current mattress.

Now I just need to find queen sheets somewhere for cheap.

I'm looking forward to this new adventure in my life. :)

Grandpa Nelson

2010-07-13T09:54:00.001-05:00

ETA: Grandpa passed away this morning, shortly before noon, if I am understanding everything correctly. :(

{First, I have to comment on the photo. This is typical Grandpa. Sitting down talking, coffee cup in hand, and by the candy dish.)

I recently realized that I haven't talked too much about Grandpa here on my blog, other than perhaps a couple random memory posts. Grandpa had a lung removed due to cancer 17 years ago. Most people don't survive lung cancer, so that is a miracle in itself. During those 17 years, he still has managed to do many of the things that he loves. Hunting, fishing, and building things. He is currently in the hospital due to a fall and is not expected to live much longer than a week. Things were looking up at one point, but now they are grim. As mom said during one of her phone calls to me, they are planning a funeral. Even if he survives this, his quality of life simply won't be there. Anyway, due to this, I'v been reminiscing a bit and thought it would be a good idea to get some of my memories down.

I lived with Grandma and Grandpa until I was 7 years old, and I remember not wanting to move out. I pitched many fits, because I didn't want to leave Grandma and Grandpa's house. I mean, who would want to leave, when you had a Grandma and Grandpa that spoiled you?

Some of my earliest memories include Grandpa. When I was younger we would go camping way up north, out in the middle of nowhere. You either bathed in the lake, or used a sun shower. All meals were cooked over the fire, or occasionally using the small stove in the camper. For bathrooms, we used a port-a-potty that we brought with.

I believe it was when Grandpa was up re-building or remodeling Hungry Jack Lodge after a fire. I remember there being a huge long dock, and Grandpa and I sitting at the end of it, casting my pole with a worm on the hook, and catching sunfish after sunfish. I used to love going on boat rides in Grandpa's old Lund finishing boat.

During the summer Grandma and Grandpa had a HUGE garden. Grandma made freezer jam, canned, froze, and gave away the goods from the garden. Nothing ever went to waste. One of my favorite things when I was younger, was once the pumpkins started to grow, Grandpa would take each grandkid out there, and have them pick out a pumpkin and with his pocketknife he would either carve our name or initial in them. Then each Halloween we got the pumpkin. Either to carve, or display as is.

Another summer activity at Grandma and Grandpa's house was the sawmill. Just thinking about it brings me back there...the scent of sawdust, the sound of the trees being cut down to slabs to be made into something. Grandpa was out there as much as he would be, typically overseeing everything, as after his surgery, he wasn't able to help out much at the sawmill.

Even after I moved out of Grandma and Grandpa's house, I still went back and visited them often, spending the night. Whenever I would get there, Grandpa would say, "Come on over and give me a squeeze." He never called hugs, hugs, only squeezes, as far as I remember.

One of my favorite things was each morning when Grandma and I woke up, Grandpa would bring us coffee in bed. Cream and sugar in mine of course. Then Grandma would get up and cook breakfast. She usually had cream of wheat. I still love that. Grandpa would have bacon, eggs, and toast, and of course, I had to be like Grandpa and have the same thing. There was an occasional bowl of Wheaties with a bit of sugar and cut up banana on it.

Grandpa also used to go into the Duquette General Store and have coffee with some guys in the back room. When I stayed over, he would buy me a lottery ticket to scratch off. If I won, he gave me the cash, and let me keep the quarter that I scratched it with. I always managed to con Grandpa out of quarters and dollar bills when I was younger.

Sometime before Grandpa's lung surgery, he always laid on the floor and would ask me to give him backrubs. Back then I wanted to be a masseuse, and Grandpa said I would be a good one. He also taught me how to play blackjack back then too.

I loved it when there were family weddings or places that we could go to dance. I remember Grandpa letting me stand on his feet and he would dance with me. I always knew that Grandpa would walk me down the aisle on my wedding day. I'm so happy that he was able to do that.

Grandma taught me how to sew buttons on, and before long I was charging Grandpa to sew buttons on his shirts. Back when he was doing construction, he always wore button down shirts, and the buttons would come off.

Grandpa loved to be out in the shop and build things. When he made each of the Granddaughters a hope chest one year for Christmas, I cried. It is gorgeous. I will cherish that hope chest forever. Grandpa would love to show me the shop and what he was working on. As he got older, the less he did in the shop, but he still carved his canes and build bird houses. He loved carpentry and building things.

On the weekends Grandpa loved to watch Hee Haw and of course the hunting and fishing shows. Then every night at 6:30 p.m. we all had to sit down and watch Wheel of Fortune. Dinner and dishes had to be done by them, so the show could be watched.

I remember being younger and Grandpa convinced me that Boxcar Willie (an old country music singer, if you didn't know) would make the deer come out in the field. He would turn the music on, and sure enough the deer would come out to the field to eat. I didn't realize until years later that he played the music at the same time every night, as the deer came out at the same time.

Song mix up

2010-06-28T14:36:00.000-05:00

I don't know what made me think of this today, but this is one of those things that I have to blog so I don't forget about it. :)

The Scene: Mama Jenny's Kitchen.

Who: Mama Jenny, Justin (her son), Jessi, and I. (I think Megan or Mandi were there too...they are Mama Jenny's daughters.)

The story:

Mama Jenny: Do you know this song? She starts singing, "Sweet Cherry Pie bom, bom bom"

*Jessi, Justin and I all look at each other a bit puzzled, then it dawns on us.*

Jessi: I think it's "Sweet Caronline."

*Cue hysterical laughter from all of us, and going on a long time.*

For your listening pleasure:

Sweet Caroline:

Sweet Cherry Pie:

Now whenever I hear one of these songs, I get a chuckle. :) Makes my day. :)

I sewed!!!!

2010-06-19T17:29:00.000-05:00

I'm not the best sewer, more like a wanna-be sewer. But Jessi was talking on Twitter about checkbook covers on Etsy. I started browsing them and realized the ones that I really liked looked fairly easy to make and thought I could make them instead. Now, I say this often. I can totally make that. But do I ever follow through? Nope. That's why I'm a wanna-be sewer. I've been itching to sew after catching up on a ton of blogs. I went searching online and found a pattern on this blog to make a checkbook cover. I will totally be checking back on her blog since it looks so neat and fully of inspiration!!

Anyway, I started printing the directions at 3 p.m...waiting for all 8 pages to print since I'm lame and didn't want to bring my laptop into my craft room. I dug around in my room looking for fabric and fusible interfacing to use, but I couldn't find any interfacing, so I ran to a sewing store down the street and came back. I had to clear off my table in the craft room in order to make room to sew and cut, lol. I really gotta clean that soon. I spent a good 15 minutes trying to find my foot pedal for my sewing machine too. Anyway, by about 4:25 I was done with my little checkbook cover!!! I was shocked as I didn't think it would be that easy, but it really was!! I was hoping to finish it before I left for work at 6:30. I surprised myself!!

Here are the pictures I took of it. Now, keep in mind that it's totally not perfect, but I am loving it so far. Though if I make it again, I'm going to increase the width to about 7.5 inches or pay a bit more attention to my seams as it ended up being a bit too snug for my liking, but it works!

Here is the checkbook cover open:

And here is the outside view:

Not a bad first try, I don't think! And isn't that fabric bright and fun? I love it! :D

The Life Audit

2010-06-15T11:17:00.000-05:00

While wandering around my local library a couple weeks ago, I happened upon a book called "The Life Audit." I'll be honest, I didn't read the synopsis or anything before checking it out, it sounded interesting enough to me.

The book sat neglected in my library book bag, while I flipped through some sewing books I got and finished reading some fiction books that I got. Last week I pulled out "The Life Audit" and started to flip through and read skim a few pages, and read the introduction. Wow, it sounded fascinating. I took Saturday to make photocopies of the charts in the back of the book. (Yes, I debated going through and re-creating these in Word or Excel, but decided that was too time consuming and I was too cheap to spend the $15 on just the charts on the website.)

Today is the first time that I'm actually going through and starting to write my information down on the charts. Granted, I haven't gotten very far yet, I've only filled out two pages, and already need to make another copy, but I have a feeling that this is going to be a fabulous thing to go through.

Examine me. Examine life. Get some direction back in my life, hopefully. I am just feeling so hopeful.

Now I need to go and renew the book from the library as I know I won't be done with it, by the time it is due back on the 21st.

I know that I'm not going to post lots of my answers here on my blog, but I'm hoping to do a few posts as I'm going through this.

I would love to hear your thoughts on doing a "Life Audit" (even if you didn't use this book, or any book for that matter.) Does anyone care to join me in this adventure?

Baby

2010-05-20T18:03:00.002-05:00

Many of you know of the struggle that Jason and I have gone through trying to get pregnant. We have tried for years and haven't been able to succeed. A couple of years ago we sold all of the baby stuff that we had bought on clearance, at garage sales, etc. since we needed the money. I had thought that I had put it in God's hands, and handed the issue over to him. And that I was fine with that, and that if it was His will, then I would get pregnant. I have even told people that...and that if it happens, it happens. Sure it was still hard to hear news that people were pregnant, but I was genuinely happy for them, and still am. But this brings me to today...

Today while running errands, I had in one of my Glee CD's and since I don't know what songs are on what yet, I just let the CD run. Then on came this song.

I had heard this song before, on Glee in even, and it didn't effect me. But today this song did. I immediately started to cry as the song played. Stopped a red light. Literally sobbing. I was a mess. I had one of those deep down gut feelings that I would never get to experience being pregnant. Having a baby. Being a mom. That no one would ever say those words to me.

Now I'm sure that someone is going to say something to the effect of "You don't know that." or perhaps, "You could get pregnant." And you are right, I don't know for sure. But it was one of those deep down feelings that I would never get to experience this wondrous event.

Happiness

2010-05-18T09:16:00.001-05:00

I found this somewhere in my online travels and made it my itouch background. I need to live by this. Need to remember it.

Layout Share!

2010-05-13T09:54:00.003-05:00

Way back in January or February I took a few of pictures of my scrapbook layouts to share here on my blog. Well it's now May and have I shared them yet? Nope, of course not! Here they are, I hope you enjoy!

This layout was made using the January Kit from Jen's House of Scrap. (Link in my sidebar) I have never seen the corrugated letters before! I fell in love with them. Gorgeous. Ink them for a bit of added texture or leave them plain. Love them!!! So fun!

Another layout using contents from Jen's House of Scrap January kit. It's hard to see it in the picture, but I sewed around each of the color circles on the page. I have been loving the look of sewing on my pages lately.

Very simple page, made using Cosmo Cricket paper and one of the Making Memories Vintage Findings packets. Those are so fun!!! They include so much stuff for only $3.99.

I have been loving doing the 8 1/2 x 11 pages lately. I don't know why, but they are just a fun size to do. Using all American Crafts paper and Flair. Oh how I love American Crafts. Yum.

Another page using the January kit from Jen's House of Scrap!

The Beautiful Besties page was a challenge page at RSC! We were given the dotted patterned paper and had to make a layout using the paper. Then the croppers chose a winner. I think we had an hour or less to put this together. Those of you that know me, know I take that long to choose my pictures!!! I do like how this page turned out and then the croppers chose me a winner! I was shocked as there were so many great layouts that people made up!

Oh how I love this little shelf. I picked it up at the $1 store and didn't know what I would do with it. I cut apart and cut down the element cards from Jen's House of Scrap kit and made this fun little thing! I want to go back to the $1 store and pick up a couple more of these. I envision making these for holiday's and having them displayed through the season.

Kittehs!

2010-04-22T13:48:00.003-05:00

No matter how old Cullen is I still call him a Kitteh. He will have his 2 year birthday in June. I can't believe we have had him over a year now! He is part of the family. Now you noticed that my post was titled Kittehs! with an s. Cullen has a friend called Noodle that is staying with us for a while. Both cats have been adjusting great together and it's so fun to see them interact, especially when they think no one is watching. There have been so many cute things that I haven't managed to capture on my camera. Here are a few cute pictures.

If you want to see any of the pictures larger, you can view them on my Flickr account.

Descriptions are going to be directly below the pictures. :)

Time for treats! Both cats love the treats. Though we had some Pounce ones and Noodle wouldn't eat them, but Cullen used to. Now that Noodle won't, Cullen won't either. It's too funny!

Jason has them eating out of both hands!

Window Buddies! They both LOVE looking out the windows, watching the birds and the people. Now they share the window together. Or should I say that Cullen hogs 90% of the window sill and lets Noodle sit on a small piece of it? Still so cute though!

Cullen saying, "Talk to the paw!"

This was the first time that we had seen them curled up next to one another! Isn't it precious? Now they sleep next to each other often. I still think it's so adorable!

Noodle sniffing the treat bag. He would put his paw and nose in the bag to try and get the treats out. I thought it was so adorable!

Don't mind the mess in the picture, my scrapbook room needs lots of helping getting clean right now...want to come over and help? Pretty please? Ok, fine...anyway one day we couldn't find Noodle, he wasn't in any of his usual hiding spots. Here he was in my scrapbook room, sleeping on top of my backdrops in a bag! He loves it there for some odd reason!

Another close up of Noodle sleeping on the backdrop bag...

Cullen: "REALLY? You gotta take my picture when I look like this?"

Noodle sleeping in the window. When he sleeps in the window, this is how he sleeps. Head in the corner and everything. Oh and that is one of Noodle's favorite toys there. He carries that toy with him all over the place!

Cullen watching the birds.

I had Jason set up the Kitty City again. It was a great idea as both cats love it and play with it! Cullen loves to be in that little compartment there.

Cullen watching everything going on outside.

Noodle being all cute and laying in a sun spot!

This picture cracks me up. First you have to know that Cullen has his claws and Noodle is de-clawed on his front paws. Noodle goes up everything and rubs his paws on it, like he is sharpening them. On the couch, the laundry basket, the scratching post, everything. He doesn't leave any marks though as he is de-clawed. It's so funny to Jason and I, because Cullen doesn't do that at all! On anything! Cullen has never used the scratching posts on the Kitty City, but man Noodle loves them! I think Cullen is looking at Noodle in the picture and thinking, "What in the world are you doing?!"

Poem

2010-04-13T09:30:00.002-05:00

While I was cleaning out the spare bedroom upstairs, I found a box of papers and such from my school years. There were school papers, poems, notes, slam books, etc in there. I started to go through them, but then decided that it would take too much time and I would go through them later. But with the few that I did go through, I found this poem that I wrote. Based on my writing, it was sometime in high school....I'm guessing somewhere between 1999-2000, but I don't know for sure. I never was a good writer, and don't know why I'm sharing it now, but I'm going to. Who knows, I might end up removing this post.

(untitled)

Death so close

People rushing around

Loud voices

Sirens

Frantic Screams

I whisper in a breaking voice I love you

To the one who holds my lifeless hand

I take a deep breath while tears stream down my face

Visions float through my head

Playing with laughing cousins

Christmas at home

Good times in school

Sleepovers with my friends

You

My wedding

A loud muffled voice interrupts these visions

Repeating I love you, don't leave me here alone

I am torn

Where do I go?

Someone gently guides me

Angels appear

Everything is white

Silent

But loving

Comforting

BANG

I whisper in a terrified voice

What was that?

I feel a cold hand on my shoulder, shaking me

I slowly, mechanically turn around

I see a smiling face

We embrace

He says we will be together forever

I smile and we walk away

Hand in hand on the clouds

Watching over the world

Ma and Work

2010-03-17T15:22:00.004-05:00

Man, it's been forever since I have posted here. I'm so sorry! I'm hoping to be able to post again more regularly. Every just had a post brewing inside you and you had to get it out? That's what this one is doing to me, and I feel that I just have to get it out.

Growing up, Ma worked many jobs. One of the earliest jobs I remember her working at was a small town cafe as a waitress. (Side note, that is actually how she met dad. Not that that matters or anything in this story...) As I continued to grow up she worked as a Pharmacist Technician, a waitress, bartender, cleaner, Pizza Putter Togetherer, secretary, and I'm sure many more jobs that I'm forgetting. She would work all day, and come home and clean the house, and do all the stores that are required on a hobby farm. Feeding and watering the animals, tending the garden in summer, splitting and hauling work in the winter, and many, many other things. My point is that she is one damn hard working woman. She can have a to-do list a mile long and get it all done. The house was always clean and company ready. Desserts for when people stopped by where in the freezer just in case someone dropped by unannounced.

No matter what job Ma was working, even if it was less than minimum wage, she put her all into it. It didn't matter what the job was, she always went above and beyond doing things, even if she didn't get paid for it. Now, I'm sure that Ma would never tell you any of this, and she would brush it off and say "It's just what I do" or perhaps "It just needed to be done and I had time so I did it." No work was beneath her or above her. She did it all. And then some. Then come home and do it all again. And then some. No lying, I still swear that she is SuperWoman. She can still run circles around me.

In this day and age, I have come to realize that there aren't many people out there who work like that. They get out of bed, do the bare minimum to scrape by and nothing else. I'll be the first to admit that I've been one of them. They just want the paycheck and won't do anything other than what is in their job description and required of them to get that paycheck.

I'm honored that Ma was able to instill her hardworking morals into me. It doesn't matter if it's my slightly above minimum wage job or my job that pays me 3-4 times minimum age. I work my ass off at both jobs. No matter what job I'm at, I find something to do. Cleaning isn't "below" me or not in my job description. If it needs to be done I do it. If I'm so busy I don't get my breaks, I'm not going to whine and cry about it. Stuff needs to be done so I do it.

I have recently realized that there aren't many people like that left anymore that are willing to go above and beyond. So many people feel entitled to that paycheck and aren't going to do more than the bare minimum to get it. I'm happy to say that I have realized that I'm not one of them. I work my ass off for my paycheck. There is a great sense of accomplishment in working your ass off and seeing all that you have accomplished.

Thanks Ma for instilling your hardworking morals into me. I don't want to know what I would be like otherwise.

Now if only I could be so hard working at home too...I'll get better at that. I promise.

February Food and Drink Challenge

2010-02-02T14:51:00.003-06:00

Andrew has inspired me by this blog entry to join in his food and drink challenge for February. Andrew and his girlfriend are giving up coffee, tea, cheese, brown & tomato sauce, vegan mayo, and booze. Now my list isn't going to be that long. And giving up cheese and tea? WOW! They are amazing.

For the past few months, Jason and I (more so me, than him if I want to be honest) have slipped back into eating out way too much. We have even slipped back into having fast food again. Ugh! I want to break us from this habit, so in February we are going to give up going out to eat! With the exception of when I go to the cities with the Bellywings in February and when we are up north in February. So maybe I should just say that we are limiting it...but if I said that, I know I would use that to my advantage of eating out and I don't want to do that.

I have also decided that I am going to give up pop again as well. Once again, I did this before, and was great, but it has slowly crept back in my diet, mainly when we eat fast food, or when I am scrapbooking. I know it's not good for me, so I am giving that up completely. No exceptions to this one. I have no excuse to drink pop and I'm hoping to get rid of this one completely from my diet for years to come.

Consider joining in to the challenge! If you do, feel free to post a comment on my blog or Andrew's.

Day 22. Cake. YUM!

2010-01-22T20:27:00.000-06:00

The Bellywings are the best!! We were cropping tonight and they brought some snacks and this beautiful cake to celebrate my birthday!! Isn't it pretty? Sprinkles and pink. My fav.

Larger image can be found here.

Day 21

2010-01-21T20:19:00.000-06:00

Waiting in the car for the ice to melt off the windows a bit and for the car to warm up. Wouldn't you pass the time taking pictures of yourself too?

Larger image here.

Quote

2010-01-20T15:30:00.001-06:00

I seen this quote on Ella Publishing and knew I had to blog it. I just love it. I think I might even need to scrapbook it.

Day 20

2010-01-20T15:24:00.002-06:00

All of this came out of my purse. Interesting huh?

A list of a few things:
Battery charger for my Rebel camera, which I don't carry with me.
Cash! I never have cast on me!
An empty bottle of Excedrin, how it got empty, I don't know.
A coloring book picture, all colored in from Haley
Many pouches
Bling and stamps that I bought at RSC. (Doesn't everyone have this in their purse?)
Receipts from Target, RSC, and various other places.
A leatherman type tool, that doesn't have a knife. (I actually use this at work quite often.)
Remote for the ipod thing we got for hte car
Camera cord
Notebooks
Wine corks (I'm collecting these for a friend of mine)
USB drive
Aromatherapy Headache stuff.

Larger image can be found here.

Day 19 Hoar Frost?

2010-01-19T15:20:00.000-06:00

Day 19

I believe this is hoar frost. Different than any kind of frost I have seen before. I wish I could have snapped a picture with my nice, new camera, but I didn't have it with me. I could have gotten a much better capture, I feel. Not very happy with how this one turned out.

(Shot with my point and shoot camera)

Larger image can be found here.

Day 18

2010-01-18T15:18:00.000-06:00

My desk at work, when I am not in class. It's one tiny office. :) Yup, I like having lots of beverages handy.

(Shot with my point and shoot camera)

Day 12

2010-01-12T19:35:00.000-06:00

Day 12 As soon as I come home from work I get into my comfy clothes. I turned around and on the couch were Jason and Cullen. Of course I had to grab my camera. This is a common sight around our house. Isn't it sweet?

Day 11 {Kid's Favorite Chocolate Chip Muffins}

2010-01-11T15:04:00.004-06:00

Day 11

As far of my New Year's Resolutions, I'm going to try more recipes. Specifically, 3 a month for a year. This is the first one that I've tried so far this month. Here is the link to the original recipe.

I didn't have any whole wheat flour on hand (thought I did, but apparently I used it all!) so I used all purpose flour. Also, I used pumpkin pie spice in the muffins since I have a ton of that for some reason.

The verdict is that they are really good! Jason even liked them despite the fact that they have pumpkin in them! I will be making them again for sure, though of course with a couple modifications.

I think next time I'm going to use the whole wheat flour, cut the oil in half and use applesauce, and I need to see if I can't cut down the sugar. Though I won't be making these again for a while since we have 36 of them! That is a ton of muffins for 2 people!!!

If you try this recipe out, let me know what you think!

Day 10 {Lazy Sunday}

2010-01-10T23:33:00.002-06:00

Cullen enjoying a lazy Sunday.

Day 9 {Rearranging}

2010-01-09T23:10:00.000-06:00

Day 9 I spent 12 hours at RSC (the local scrapbook store) helping rearrange the store. This is a huge pile of Thickers that had to get moved off the wall and moved to a new home. Believe it or not, this was the only picture I took. I was too busy helping move stuff around!

Day 8! {Fun at RSC!}

2010-01-08T22:28:00.000-06:00

Day 8 Dun, Dun, Dunce! Jessi being all silly at RSC! Oh how I love my night crops. So many good laughs!

Day 7 {Winter is here to stay}

2010-01-07T19:05:00.002-06:00

Yup, it's definitley winter out there. It's been snowing since last night and we have about 5-6 inches on the ground. It's also freezing out there! We have Windchills of -25F. BRRRRR. It's freezing out there. Sadly I wasn't able to stay outside long, but I'm thrilled with this shot I took of a tree in our front yard.

Jason finally got his snowblower this year. He gets so excited every time there is snow in the forecast in hopes that he will get to snowblow. Today he go to do this that. But man it was cold out today! Windchills of -25F. BRRRR.

365 Days of Pictures

2010-01-07T11:05:00.004-06:00

Random picture from my 2008 self-portrait a day challenge that I did. Man, I miss the green grass!

Andrew asked me something in a comment here on one of my blog posts and I thought it would make a good entry. :) Here is what he asked.

"I was thinking of the 365 photo project myself this year, but instead will do a weekly project me thinks. Would like your views on doing a 365 project if possible. Intense at times for instance?"

My first thought is, "Go for it! What do you have to lose?" I mean if you don't finish it, at least you will have taken more pictures and documented a few things right?

Now I would love to tell you all that the first time I started a taking a picture a day for 365 days that I finished it the first time I started. Nope, I didn't. I did my first complete 365 days (actually it was 366) in 2008. I started it the year before and got maybe a weeks worth of pictures done, that's it. I also tried to do a picture of anything a day in 2009. I didn't get very far into that one either.

For 2008 I think that it actually helped that I had a focus. Self-portraits. At least part of me had to be in the picture and I had to take the picture. I hated being in front of the camera and wanted to have more pictures of me. I also went into this with the thought that I wanted this to be real life. That I didn't want to sugar coat anything and that I wanted the pictures to capture moods, things going on in life, essentially to be a nice capture of what the year held.

I think I'm starting to ramble here, and I'm sure that's not what Andrew had in mind. Let's try to get back to his question.

I don't think that it was intense. I wasn't all about capturing the perfect shot, I just wanted to make sure that I had at least one photo for each day. I carried my camera with me everywhere, just so I wouldn't miss an opportunity. I would highly recommend that.

I will admit that for me, the 365 days of pictures was time consuming, but not everyone is like me. What took me the longest was choosing the picture (very rarely did I take 1 picture to choose from, I took a few, but again, that's just me) and of course the editing of the picture. I played around with my pictures a bit in Photoshop Elements, and then I resized them, and put my name on them before uploading them to flickr. Then after uploading them to flickr, I blogged them all. The editing and that process is what took me the longest. Now you don't have to do all of that, but I did. In fact, I also decided to scrapbook those pictures and I'm still working on that book. I really should finish that....maybe that's what I will bring with me on the next retreat. But that's a whole different subject. :)

The 365 days of pictures was a great experience for me. I learned so much about my camera, editing, everything! I loved it! I also met some fabulous people while doing this and I was so inspired by other peoples pictures. I think that my photography skills improved, at least I hope they did. I also accomplished the goal of being in more pictures. I'm now more apt to be in them as well, I guess you could say that it got me over not wanting to have my picture taken. I also succeeded in documenting life every single day for a year. I would have loved to be able to look back and see a year in the life of my parents, or any of my relatives. What a great history.

A tip I have if you are interested in doing a 365 project, is to keep up with it. I mean obviously you will snap the pictures everyday, but if you want to share them somewhere, then do your best not to get behind. I remember being overwhelmed by not keeping up with that and being overwhelmed by it. I know and understand life gets busy, but if you are feeling overwhelmed by it, then it's not fun anymore. Sharing it right away also makes it much easier to share the story behind the picture, if there is one. There were some days when I went to share the pictures, I couldn't remember why I took that particular shot. What was going on that day, etc. But once again, that was just my preference, I like knowing the story behind the picture.

Honestly, I would encourage everyone to do a 365 project. I found it very rewarding as I described above. I caught many moments (even pictures I didn't share on my Flickr/blog) that I normally wouldn't of, simply because I had my camera at hand. To this day I still carry my point and shoot camera with me wherever I go.

As you can tell from my previous blog posts, I'm attempting a 365 again this year. I'm not doing self-portraits every day, but various things. I want to focus on the here and now. The story behind the photos. How life is now. Record my random thoughts and memories. Likes/dislikes. I'm also using this as an opportunity to learn how to use my new camera. Looking back on 2009 I realized I didn't take as many pictures as I would have liked, and I hope that this gets me back into it. I missed so many moments and memories. Everyday life moments.

I also found a really cool site through Twitter (I can't remember who initially linked me), if you are wondering what in the world you are going to do with 365 photos at the end of the year, it's a possible solution for you. It's called Shutter Cal. At the end of each month, you can order a box of prints from them with the date and a description printed on back. Now I haven't ordered these yet, but I'm planning on it, and I love how they look in the photos! I look forward to seeing for myself. :)

If anyone has any questions about my thoughts on doing a Project 365, leave me a comment and I will answer it! I love comments. :)

Day 6

2010-01-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

Day 6 Jason and I got married back in August 2003. Yup, over 6 years ago. I can't believe where time has gone. One of the best decisions that I made for the wedding (though I'm not sure if Ma agrees with me!) is going with silk flowers. Ma did all of the flowers for us. She is amazing. I absolutely love my wedding bouquet and still have it displayed at home. One of the things that Ma did to the bouquet as she was making it, was put this little bumble bee in it. No one really even noticed it, but it holds great meaning to me. That little bumble bee is from Great Grandma Ho-Ho's (I could never say Holmstrom growing up and called her Great Grandma Ho-Ho) sewing stuff and she passed away before the wedding. I love having that little bumble bee as a small reminder of Great Grandma.

Day 5 and Bonus Shot!

2010-01-05T21:55:00.000-06:00

I love both of these pictures so you are getting both of them. :)

Day 5 Before Christmas I was at Hy-Vee shopping for baking stuff to make cookies and such. I knew I wanted to make fudge and to do so I needed Sweetended Condensed Milk. While perusing the shelves at Hy-Vee trying to find the best price, I game across this little gem, which happened to be the cheapest one! Even if it wasn't I would have bought it because I loved the vintage feel of the can. I think Jason thought I was crazy for loving this can so much, but I do. Oh and if you are wondering if the fudge ever got made. It didn't. I really should make that sometime soon. Maybe this weekend.

I snapped this picture of Jason after he came in from the freezing outside. I can't believe how cold it is out there!

Random Pictures

2010-01-05T14:54:00.003-06:00

Here are some random pictures that I have taken lately that I wanted to share.

If you want to view them larger or read the story behind the pictures, please visit my Flickr account.

Welcome to 2010

2010-01-05T13:43:00.002-06:00

Wow, I can't believe it's already January 5 today. Where has time gone? I have to say that I truly enjoyed my Christmas break. I loved having the time off from my main job and only worked a few hours at my other job. I spent lots of time with Jason and Cullen. I only wish that I were still on vacation and home where it is nice and toasty warm.

Before going on vacation I decided that I was going to get so much done around the house. Do you think that actually happened though? Nope, it sure didn't. But it was a vacation so I should have relaxed and enjoyed my time off right? I hope so, since that's what I did. Everything is still there and will be there when I get to it.

As some of you know from my previous blog post I've done the "One Word" before. My previous words were Cultivate and Homemade Simple. Since December I've toyed with it off and on, and I decided that once again I'm going to do it. This year it's different though. I didn't wade through word lists, or spend too much time thinking about my word. I just felt a nudge that my word should be growth. I'm going with that nudge and that's my word of the year.

As always with a New Year comes with resolutions or goals. I've been debating about posting them here, and I figure why not. It's my blog, right? :) Without any further ado here are some goals/resolutions/things I want to accomplish this year.

Get back to eating healthy and lose weight. (Again.) I realize that this is a typical resolution, but I recently started scrapbooking my 2006 pictures of our trip to South Dakota. I can't get over how much better I look there. I actually look fairly healthy even! I was still overweight, but so much healthier. I went back and read some of the journaling that I did in our travel book and I cried as I copied it into my scrapbook. I was making good choices then. I need to get back to that again. I need to do it for me. Thus it's one of my goals.
Keep a list of all the books I read in 2010.
Keep a list of all the scrapbook layouts I do in 2010. (I'm debating if I should also include the ones that I do for the scrapbook store, as they aren't for me. Hmmm...decisions, decisions.)
Read at least 1 book off of the banned books list.
Work on my Listology Bucket List. Cross off at least 1 item. (Hopefully more!)
Get back on track financially. We slipped off the road so to speak, but I'm sure that we will get back on track. I'm re-reading Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey again. I'm already inspired. :)
Learn how to use my new camera. I think I will need one on one instruction for this!

This year I also decided to try to do a photo a day again. I found a really cool site called ShutterCal and I've been uploading my pictures there as well as Flickr. I don't think I will scrapbook these, well maybe some of my favorites, but nothing like my self-portrait 365 that I still haven't finished! Instead I'm going to order the prints from ShutterCal and keep them in that nifty, sweet box! Isn't that neat? I love how they look! Plus I can then use my new camera more. :)

I don't think I blogged about my new camera. But I got a Canon Rebel XS from Amazon! I got it for a steal of a deal and absolutely LOVE IT! I can't believe the quality of pictures it takes and how fast the shutter speed is! It's amazing!!! I really haven't taken it off of Auto much yet, but I can't wait to learn how to use it! I am loving it!! Oh and I so want some of the fun lens filters too! :D

Oh and don't worry, I will share my daily photos here on my blog. Or if I'm behind, you can view them on the shutter cal link above, or on my Flickr account.

Speaking of pictures, I should go back and upload the ones I have taken so far and post them here! :)

2010-01-04T14:53:00.000-06:00

Day 4 Spent a bit of time tonight reading in a finance book. One of the very few times that I took a pencil out and underlined and jotted some notes in the book.

Day 3

2010-01-03T14:52:00.000-06:00

Day 3 I love this picture of Kya with Grandma Marie. It just radiates love. So beautiful. We spent the day at Marie and Jerry's today celebrating Christmas. It was so much fun and I loved spending the day there.

Day 2

2010-01-02T14:50:00.000-06:00

Day 2 One of my favorite places to be is at RSC. I walk in the door and it feels as if a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. Everyone should have a place like that. Even though I work there now, I feel the same way. It's a wonderful place to scrapbook, and I have even just brought my laptop in and sat and enjoyed the afternoon and evening. Most Friday nights you can find me there as well! I love cropping with the Bellywings. So many good laughs. One of my favorite places.

Day 1

2010-01-01T14:48:00.001-06:00

Cullen has taken to sleeping with us at night and sleeping on our bed today. I was hoping to get a shot of him actually sleeping, but instead he woke up and yawned. Oh and I will do my best to not make my 365 all of Cullen. :)

Biscuits and Gravy

2009-12-28T12:41:00.002-06:00

After working for almost 3 years to perfect Biscuits and Gravy for Jason, I have finally succeeded!!!! I figured I should document the recipe so I don't forget since we don't make it often.

Biscuits and Gravy

1 pound Jimmy Dean Sage Sausage (This brand/kind is key. Trust me.)

3/4 cup Flour

1 tsp Salt

1 tsp Italian Seasoning

1/2 tsp Garlic Powder

1/2 tsp Sage

1/2 tsp Pepper

1 quart Heavy Whipping Cream

2 cups milk

Crumble sausage into pan. Cook over medium heat until no longer pink. Do not drain! Stir in flour and seasonings until blended. Gradually add the heavy whipping cream and the milk. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Serve over biscuits. Yum.

Next project?

2009-12-23T11:33:00.002-06:00

Well, that is once I finish the quilt I have started. I really should finish buying what I need for that. Anyway, look what I found today!!!!

Basic Grey had a line of paper called Blush out a while back. I LOVED that line. And now it's out in fabric. YUM!!!

I seen this quilt on the Moda Blog and I need to make it!! Or at least make something with the Blush line.

Here is the link to the blog and the pattern.

(Image from their blog.)

Random!

2009-12-11T21:36:00.002-06:00

I know that I do a lot of posts called random or something to that effect, but oh well. :P

A while back someone asked me for feedback on the homemade laundry soap I made. I think that was way back in January 2009, and I don't think I ever did. Anyway, the first soap recipe I tried, was a liquid soap and I didn't like it. To me it seemed like it didn't whiten my clothes. After that I tried another soap recipe that Ma gave it. We made that up a while back and really liked it. I just made up a second batch tonight. Here's the recipe if you are interested.

Ma's Laundry Soap Recipe

1 box Borax

1 box Washing Soda (I can only find the Arm & Hammer brand around here)

1 bar grated soap (I use Ivory)

Mix it all together, and ensure that it gets mixed up well. When I mix it up, I tend to layer it and then mix it up. I use anywhere between 1/8 cup and 1/4 cup per load of laundry. Depends on how large the load is and how dirty the clothes are.

I finished wrapping the Christmas presents that are in the house tonight! Reindeer names have been chosen, and now I just need to ribbonize the gifts and tag then with reindeer names. :) We are celebrating Christmas up north next weekend and I gotta be ready. :)

Our Christmas tree looks so lonely in the corner with no decorations or lights on. Tomorrow I hope we can get the tree decorated. With me being sick this week, it just didn't happen. Thankfully Cullen has been leaving the Christmas tree alone, expect he likes to drink out of the tree stand water. Silly cat.

I need to give a big THANK YOU to Heather from Cool Zebras. She brought over a HUGE bag full of clothes and another smaller (but still large) bag of clothes over for Kent and Doreen!!!! THANK YOU so much! I am so touched that you did this.

I also got my pay it forward gift from Heather, but that deserves a post of it's own.

I had good intentions of continuing to blog a few times a week, but I haven't been. I need to get back to it, since I realize how much I miss it.

Speaking of missing things, I also noticed that I haven't been taking pictures. I feel like I am missing memories when I don't take pictures. I need to get back to that too. My blog posts look so lame without pictures. Sorry everyone!

Laundry just stopped, so I best go and switch that around. :)

Help for Kent and Doreen

2009-12-03T08:02:00.003-06:00

Most my readers know that last Saturday, November 28, my Aunt and Uncle's house burnt down. Kent and Doreen have 1 son, Michael. The house was deemed a complete and total loss. Since posting the pictures (look down a couple posts) people have been asking me what is needed, sizes, and what hobbies and interests they have, I thought it would be easiest to post here and direct people. I honestly can't say how much I appreciate all of the thoughts, prayers, and offers of help. You all have truly touched me, and I'm honored to know all of you, whether it be in person or online.

Of course in true Amber fashion, I'm going to break this up in list form. Please keep in mind that used, thrift store items are PERFECT! Please don't go out and spend a ton of money on this.

Rubber gloves--think latex type. They are using these as they are going through what's left, etc. They will be doing this for a long time as the insurance adjusters are going through the rubble literally piece by piece with Kent and Doreen.
AA Batteries and D batteries. For the flashlights as they are going through the rubble. Flashlights would also be very helpful!
Socks for all of them--2 men, 1 woman
Winter/utility type gloves since the weather is getting colder
Queen size bedding, including sheets
Full size bedding, including sheets
Contact for a photo restoration expert who specializes in recovering fire damaged photos. They are finding some pictures that may be able to be saved. The insurance company unfortunately does not have any contact for this. Does anyone know of one?
Towels, bath and hand towels
$5 or $10 Wal-Mart or Target gift cards. These are the closest stores to them and about an hour away, but that would help buy clothes and other necessities as well.
Anything that you can think of that you would need starting a house from scratch. All of that will have to be replaced.

Now for Clothing:

Kent is a size L to XL
Doreen is a L to XL
Michael is an XL

Clothing Items

Sweatpants
Sweatshirts
Hoodies
Jackets
Yoga type pants for Doreen
Long Johns

Now for everything, Doreen really wants it to come from a Thrift Store or be used for the time being. The reason being is that while they are sorting and going through things, right now the clothing will most likely be worn once and then tossed. Obviously if the clothing is new, it won't be worn like that, but thrift store items are perfect!

People were also wondering hobbies, interests and such.

Michael is a 16 year old boy and is into cooking and books. He loves to cook, and try new recipes. His favorite type of books are science fiction/fantasy type books. He also enjoys watching movies, specifically comedies and of course Sci Fi stuff.

Doreen is a crafty woman! She loves to sew, make soap, make clay beads, do beading, quilting, candle making, anything crafty.

Kent does wood working and thankfully all of his tools were in the garage and were not even damaged by the fire.

Right now it is up in the air as to when Jason and I are heading up north, but at the absolute latest it will be December 19. I am willing to come and pick up items, or meet you somewhere if you feel the need to donate something. You can email me at gamerbabe360@yahoo.com Or you can find me on twitter at www.twitter.com/gamerbabe360

I hope that this makes sense and if you have any questions either leave a comment or send me an email.

If you are new to my blog and haven't seen the pictures, scroll down a few days and you can see the pictures.

Once again thank you all.

Everday Minerals

2009-12-01T20:41:00.003-06:00

I'm not one to usually post about products on my blog, but I have to share about Everyday Minerals. Since Kent and Doreen's house burned down, I know they are going to focus on the essentials first, as they should. I know that make-up is going to be one of the last things that Doreen replaces. She was the one that turned me onto Everyday Minerals and told me that it was the best makeup out there. I tried it and fell in love.

I thought I would contact the company with her email address, explain the situation, link them to my blog post about the fire, and get a list of the colors that she uses so I don't have to guess. I was going to buy her some since I knew it would help her feel a bit more normal.

I got an email today from CJ at Everyday Minerals saying that they are going to send her products FREE OF CHARGE!!!! Can you believe that?!?! All I was truly hoping for was a list of the colors so I could buy some for her. When I read the email I started crying. It was so sweet of them to do. I know that they have a customer in me for life now. They are an amazing company to do that. So generous.

So if any of you are in need of new makeup please go and buy some from Everyday Minerals!!! If you haven't used mineral make-up before, try out their free sample. You only have to pay shipping. I did that so I could figure out what shade I was. Their prices are reasonable, fast shipping, and a GENEROUS company.

Thank you Everyday Minerals for sending makeup to Doreen. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it.

I did it!!!

2009-11-30T14:09:00.002-06:00

I can't believe I did it!!!! I posted 30 blog entries in 30 days. I will admit some days I kinda cheated and didn't post much, but man it felt great to do it!!! I'm hoping to continue blogging with some regularity since I've gotten back into the swing of things. I didn't realize how much I had missed blogging until I did this. Now let's see if the trend will continue. ;) I hope so, since I think I'm going to do a December Daily type of thing but put it together after the fact. Though I don't know if I'm going to do it daily. Anyway, the blog will be the keeper of my memories so I can scrapbook it at a later date.

I need to thank all of my blog readers, Twitter followers, and Facebook friends who commented on Kent and Doreen's house fire. I can't believe how many people want to help in some way. At this point I don't know if we will be planning a benefit, but I would think that the community will do something as they are both very active in the community. All of your thoughts and prayers are much appreciated as they work through this.

I'm still going to help out as I can. I have quite a few ideas going around in my head trying to figure things out. My mind is racing with ideas on how to help and the best way to do it. I will keep you all posted as well. Thank you all.

Kent & Doreen's House

2009-11-29T18:59:00.004-06:00

This afternoon while at work I learned that Kent, Doreen, and Michael's house burned down last night. Kent and Doreen are my Uncle and Aunt and Michael is my cousin. Called Ma as soon as I got in the door. Basically they think that something electrical happened to start the fire. They lost essentially everything. Pictures, clothes, everything. Thankfully all the humans made it out fine, but sadly one of their cats, Rupert did not make it out. Ma was out there today and snapped a few pictures. I am so saddened by this, and can't imagine going through it. I'm devastated that this happened and just want to cry. I've shed a few tears already, and I'm sure I will shed more. I just can't imagine this happening.

I'm going to pick up some things for them and bring them up when Jason and I head up north in December. Everything was lost. Expect for 2 baskets of laundry, both Kent and Michael's since they didn't put theirs away yet. All Doreen has is what she was wearing yesterday, plus she found 1 pair of jeans that could be saved. I honestly can't imagine going through this, but I know that I need to do what I can to help, and that I will do.