A Wink at the World

Excuse me, miss?

2011-02-16T09:34:00.005-07:00

Judging from personal experience, I have found those words to frequently deliver a certain level of discomfort. I mean, really. Who usually addresses you in such a way?

Melvin, asking for your phone number after he's convinced himself that you are romantically attracted to him when all you were really trying to do was read the Chuck Norris Top-10 list posted on the wall directly behind him.
The "nice" police officer, who always seems to want to know why HE pulled YOU over. If he would take two seconds to think about it, he'd realize his mistake. You can't get to looking this good in the measley 2-hours-worth of time you alotted yourself this morning. Blinker or bronzer. Need I say more? Side note: maybe don't tell him "you're welcome" after applying lip gloss. It conducts electricity better than you think and tasers are awful on the hair (ANY hair).
The evil, maniacal mom-of-6, in the toy aisle at Walmart, right before she excuses herself past you like an NFL linebacker "excuses" himself down the field.

Ok, I must be honest. I will gladly suffer through any of the above if I am referred to as "Miss" simply because it implies I am young and SINGLE. The same explanation also referrs to my previous post about that certain doctor's appointment. I got my test results back. Everything was normal (they use that term a little loosely, dontcha think?), but the one thing I was most thrilled about? It came addressed to Ms. Janelle Thorpe. I happily updated my marriage status while I was waiting to be (ob)seen. Never have I been so happy to fill out medical forms. Granted, I probably could've turned them in a little less-loudly. "Of COURSE they are completed! See? Name? Check! Address? Check! MARITAL STATUS?? CHECK!! Yes, yes, I KNOW I stated I occasionally have cramps bad enough I could fold an iron rod in half with my abs. You're missing the point! Oh, you're ENGAGED. Can I get a hallelujah from someone who has been drug, by their wedding ring, to the very gates of hell and back? Ah, yes, I knew there'd be someone. Oh, look, there's about SEVEN someones. Forget the hallelujah; let's go get a drink!"

Whoa.

Anyway, yesterday was an "Excuse me, miss" kinda day. I was at work when I saw two men pull up in a pickup truck. This is not unusual at an engineering firm, except for the fact that these men were nicely dressed and I couldn't hear any actual swearing when the car door opened. I watched them approach my car and check the VIN number. (Hey, I may be a girl, but I know where my VIN is. Still looking for that blinker fluid, though.) Once they had confirmed that it was, in fact, the car my car was posing as, they headed toward the office.

Being the lady that I am, I met them halfway across the parking lot. We introduced ourselves and they looked sheepishly at the ground for a fleeting moment before I heard, "We need to take the car." I nodded and smiled a knowing-smile. Wow. Levi is awesome.

I asked them if I was allowed to remove my personal items from it and as I came back out with the keys and a box, I regained my dignified, lady-like poise and blurted, "That's what I get for marrying an a$$hole." But they were very helpful in removing my stuff. Maybe they were just trying to hurry me up. Either way, I was complimented on my exquisite fashion sense after catching a glimpse of my purple Maglite flashlight. I left out the fact that I've heard it works equally as well as a croquet mallet for ex-husbands' heads. I've heard.

And you know what irks me the most? I put a full tank of gas in it Sunday night! Naturally. So anyway, blah blah blah, no mo' Volvo.

This is gonna get interesting.

Today Was Brought to You by the Letter D

2011-02-11T21:22:00.004-07:00

...as in:

D)ivorce. Yes, it's still going on. Not much progress has been made. As of today, Levi has yet to see the psychologist. My attorney sent him a letter "encouraging" him to schedule, lest he be held in contempt. I'm not entirely sure what that means, but I've watched enough Law & Order (ok, ok, it's more along the lines of Judge Judy) to know that it's not good. There are a lot of angry eyebrows and gavel-wrapping and who would want to mess with that bulging, black bailiff who always seems to be sweating? Maybe his name is Contempt and he gets to have a vice-like grip on you until you comply. That should give you a quick insight into my knowledge of the legal system.
Anyway, my family and I have our home-visit tomorrow with the doctor. He is coming to observe us. Doesn't that sound hilarious? If he shows up in head-to-toe camo with military-grade binoculars and insists on talking in a hissing whisper as he "gets closah", I'm going to make it worth his while. Eating from the dog's bowl, rocking incessantly in a corner, turning the faucet on/off 17 times in a row, insisting I am invisible and demanding that he not look at me, offering him a bowl of candies and say "No, not THAT one!" about each one he attempts. I will give them names if he asks why not.
I think my biggest struggle has been Levi buying Eric inappropriate video games and that I don't think the supervisor believes me when I answer her question with the truth. I can quickly become exasperated if I think about it too much. "Yes, my life with him was/is ridiculous. That's why we hired you, remember?" I won't go into detail (for my own sake) but my faith is tested every Sunday, from 2-5, when I drop Eric off with the 2 of them. Levi slaps on his "happy mask", whips out his wallet, and tries to convince them both that he is a humble, sane victim of an angry ex-wife. Well, hell hath no fury...ha. Just because I loathe him doesn't mean I'd ever do anything to attack him. That would require more of my time and energy -- 2 resources I'm done devoting to him. But the same logic applies if I were ever to come upon him lying in a gutter somewhere... Just sayin'.

D)ignity. I got some test results back earlier this week. Ladies, you know the kinda TEST I'm talkin' about here. *Wink wink* Yeah, that ONE test you have to take ONCE a year that leaves you feeling beautiful, refreshed and completely violated. Ok, so now that we're all on the same horrifying page, I will continue. I had gone to my doctor (whom I love and would recommend to anyone; it helps that she is female), and as I'm lounging about the office in my runway-ready (white, goose-bumpy butt cheeks are SO in right now) paper-thin gown (ha!), we begin talking about what's new. Well, I tried a new nail polish, began a new season of Pretty Little Liars, and oh yeah, I left my abusive husband. I gave her 2, TWO, examples of things Levi does and she came right back with "It sounds like he's a sociopath." It was like she was commenting on a carpet sample, it was so obvious and casual. I tried (awkwardly) to sit up in the stirrups. My hands came flying up in relieved exasperation because that is EXACTLY what I believe Levi to be. I've been researching his behavior for YEARS. And that is what I've come up with. And the more I research, the more I believe I'm right. It was music to my ears. She backed me up 100%. Did I mention I liked this woman? On a side note, evidence suggests that women who kindly remove their dignity before stepping onto a scale weigh less.

D)iet. I found myself to be husband-intolerant. So I took him out of my diet. I lost 195 lbs instantly and feel great! *Not recommended for everyone. Consult your doctor before beginning any diet plan. Consult your attorney before beginning this particular plan.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Another Post

2010-12-24T12:08:00.003-07:00

Finally.

Man, work sure gets in the way. :)

A lot of stuff has been going on since I last wrote. The divorce is still dragging on, which is apparently what they must do in order to be approved at all. "I'm sorry, you haven't suffered enough. Give it another42 days and call me in the morning. If you can barely drag yourself through my office doors and I can't siphon one more cent out of your pockets, only then will I consider granting your divorce."

Anyway, I've had my first appointment with the psychologist we hired out of Boise. He is an interesting man, but what else would you expect? He is a clinical and forensic psychologist. It's actually a little eerie being around a man who has seen some real psychos. Obviously, he should be perfect for our case. I talked with him for a while and then he set me up on a computer to take my first 2 personality tests -- over 800 true/false questions. After he gave me instructions, he told me he was leaving and asked if I would mind shutting the lights off when I left. I thought that was awesome. Hopefully it meant I looked trustworthy! During a short break I took between tests, I helped myself to a peach jolly rancher from a bowl on his desk. Loved it, until I realized it was the single-most expensive piece of candy I would probably ever eat. *Sigh* Should've chosen a bigger candy.

My next appointment is Jan. 5. Levi is also supposed to be arranging to meet with the doctor, but, of course, has not set anything up yet. In fact, he and his idiot lawyer lost the information. The blind leading the blind. They are 2 peas in a pod, which is horrifying and hilarious all at the same time.

Eric had his 5TH BIRTHDAY on Dec. 1! I will have to post pictures & report on that a little later. But he had a great day. Though, waiting for Mom to get home from work before he could open his presents was the WORST thing ever! He was so grateful to us for the things he got. I am so proud of him and blessed beyond words to have such an incredible, loving, forgiving, polite, hilarious noodle of a son. I'd tie him up with ribbon and stick him under the tree, just for me, if he'd let me! (But how in the world would he play video games if he was tied up?! Gasp!)

Anyway, in conclusion, we are doing wonderfully. Surrounded by people who LOVE the pants off us every single day, forgiven by a Savior who's birth we're celebrating, and never wanting for anything. Looking at those things, it seems kind of silly to be giving any other gifts... :)

"May the god of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

Lexi

2010-10-21T21:57:00.003-06:00

Some of you may know about a couple of sister Boxer pups I had a few years ago -- Lexi & Roxie.

Well, unfortunately Levi still has Roxie.

To make a really awful and long story short...

While Lexi was still a puppy, she was hurt and beat up so often and so badly by Levi that the last time I brought her to the vet (with a crushed pelvis), I knew it HAD to be the last time I did so. I finally broke down in front of our wonderful vet and told him what was going on and that if I continued to bring Lexi home, I knew she would eventually be killed.

My heart was/is not capable of bearing such a tragedy.

He discussed some options with me and I ended up signing over all rights to her, to the vet. They would rehabilitate her and find her a new home.

That had to be one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. She was my first baby girl; so beautiful and brilliantly smart. And trapped at my house.

Well, in an effort to collect more legal documentation on Levi, I was instructed to get vet records from all the vet clinics. So, I called the vet mentioned above. He remembered me...and Lexi. :)

And then he told me some incredible news: he is still Lexi's vet and she is doing fabulously. An older couple with grown children adopted her and treat her like one of their children. He said she is beautiful, healthy, and very smart. Just like I remember her.

That poor vet. Every time I have ever spoke with him, I've been crying. But this time it was tears of relief and joy and gratefulness. I still miss her, but she's being loved like she deserves to be. The Lord answered that prayer and I can't praise Him enough for that.

I'm not sure if I can do anything for Roxie. I have tried calling animal control and the Humane Society, but was told they can't/won't pick up a dog from their own owners. I was flabbergasted and frustrated. I flat-out told them what was going on. Apparently, someone at a DIFFERENT address needs to report it. I'm not sure how well that was thought through. >:[

Anyway, the vet also wrote a wonderful statement that should be helpful. I was also able to get another record from another vet today and am waiting on a 3rd on Monday. All of these should help! The Lord is good!

Lexi (on the ground w/pink collar)
&
Roxie (on chair w/purple collar)

A Quickie

2010-10-10T19:28:00.004-06:00

It's the evening of my last day off this weekend and I plan on spendin' it with a very sweet, handsome, blondie who loves me very much, so I'm gonna make this fast.

First, I apologize for taking so long between posts.

Now, kindly remove the angry-eyebrows and follow along.

My job is still going great. I'm getting the hang of things and have developed more independence, even allowing the gal I'm replacing a few days out of the office. People like me there, which must mean the initial shock must've worn off. Engineers are very "Type A". I'm "Type YB-". That was my attempt at a medical terminology joke that stands for "Why Be Negative". *sigh* Ok, ok, I promise...no more attempts. But I'm funny and independent and I KNOW it, so no one is safe. I don't care how quickly your brain can perform calculus equations, if you are socially awkward, I will find you.

A hearing for several divorce issues is scheduled for Oct. 26. Pray for that, k?

I got in to see a counselor and he...is...awesome. My attorney said it would be a good idea for me to get a professional involved before we are able to get the custody evaluator involved (it will be addressed on the 26th). Not-so-long story short -- the counselor told me there was a word for Levi.

I asked if it was longer than 4 letters.

Let's try "Sociopath" on for size. It was a little baggy on me but a (dangerously) perfect fit for Levi. Google that and then send me your condolences...or congratulations. Whichever you deem worthy. I'm meeting with the counselor again this coming Thursday and am excited for it. He is an ordained minister, which doesn't seem to deter him from the occasional swear word. And he is very good friends with our divorce judge. So I can't help but feeling that God's hand is in this...#$&@ or otherwise.

Eric is my incredible little man and dumps so much love in to me that even this big-mouthed, independent, working girl he calls his mom is in awe and consumed by it. During even the shortest absences, I miss him terribly. But he's doing terrific. He knows the routine very well -- 5 days of working, then 2 days of doing "something fun" together. And he counts the days down every week. I leave a note by his chair every morning before I leave and he looks for it when he wakes up. Sometimes he even tries to write one for me by copying the letters from my note.

Man. I'm blessed.

I still covet your prayers regarding every aspect of the divorce. Levi is very cunning, manipulative, and has no moral boundaries. The Lord is infinitely more powerful than anything Levi can do, but it is still very unnerving to know that there is nothing he won't do to get his way.

One of my favorite songs was just on, so I'm gonna end on a couple of my most-loved lines from it:
"And all of creation, sing with me now; lift up your voice and lay your burden down; And all of creation, sing with me now; fill up the heavens, let His glory resound."

SING WITH ME! :)

Can I Get a Hallelujah?!

2010-09-01T20:13:00.003-06:00

Last week I submitted a renewal request for the protection order against Levi. I have had to fill out 3 so far: one at the very beginning with all the gorey details - approved for 2 weeks, then attend a hearing so both sides could be heard (Levi didn't show), had it extended for 90 days - approved = most incredible summer ever, 90 days are almost up, so I either let it expire or put in a renewal request for a YEAR.

You bet I did.

I was told that the judge handling these things had been setting them for hearing, so I would probably have to attend another one, and I was pretty darn sure Levi would attend that one.

Well, today I was able to break away from work (to meet with my dad & attorney), and then raced over to the courthouse to find out what the judge decided...

APPROVED FOR AN ENTIRE YEAR WITH NO HEARING.

I almost yanked the gal from behind the counter and bear-hugged her. And then I almost broke down in tears of relief. I think she could tell how relieved I was 'cause she just looked at me very kindly and chuckled and said, "Have a good day."

God is good.

(I thought this was pretty funny and fit with my "story" humorously. All joking aside, I AM praising the Lord!)

Hi Ho

2010-08-30T21:03:00.002-06:00

Off to work I went! Today was my first day and it went really well. There is SO much information that I am learning and I have to keep reminding myself that it is unreasonable to expect myself to remember all of it immediately. Tanya, my supervisor who is training me, is absolutely wonderful and we spent most of the day laughing our way through our tasks. And almost everyone made a point to tell me they are ready to answer any questions I have and help me any way they can. How great is that? Oh, and they had a personalized welcome banner up on my side of the desk and my name placard already in place! After all that, there's definitely no going back!

I've kinda been struggling with feeling a little overwhelmed. Last week, I received an email from Levi accusing me of "hiring" some of his neighbors to spy on him with camcorders. I have no idea what's going on at or around his house, but he is even more furious with me for what he's imagining is going on. Then, this last Friday at 6:00 p.m., I received a voice message from him informing me that the insurance on my car was going to expire the next day (Saturday), he wasn't renewing it, and that I had better do something about it. So, I had to leave my car sit all weekend until my dad was kind enough to call his insurance company first thing this morning and add me. Then I also found out today that within the last couple days, Levi had my cell phone deactivated, so I'm not sure how long I've been missing calls, texts, and emails. I was a little alarmed (albeit frustrated) with not being able to even make a phone call if I needed to.

So anyway, the saga continues. God is good and will help me through the doors He has opened for me. I'm leaning on Him quite heavily these days. We have a couple of bigger decisions to make regarding the divorce, so please pray for GUIDANCE and WISDOM and that the eyes of the higher-ups will be opened to the severity of the situation that lies right below the surface of how the situation may appear at first glance.

You're Hired!

2010-08-24T09:36:00.003-06:00

A couple hours after my second interview yesterday, I received a phone call offering me the position I applied for!

I am so thankful and excited! God opened this door for me and I'm going to trust that He's going to help me through it. I am still praying that He will help me trek my way through the changes that will take place now that I will be working full time. I have several J Designs jobs in production that I will have to find time to finish; my biggest concern is being able to work something out with the printer company (my previous employer) where I print a ton of my stuff. They close a 1/2 hour after I get off. Soooooo. . .we'll see what happens!

And I'm lucky enough to get to have my family watch Eric for me. Words cannot express what a relief that is. Thank you to everyone who has been keeping Eric and me in your prayers. I can't imagine going through all of this alone. I am so blessed to have family and friends who take the time to tell me how much I'm LOVED and then stand behind those words with actions. For a girl who loves words of affirmation, that is one of the most powerful things I can be told and shown.

I start training next Monday and am looking forward to working with the gal I'm replacing (she's moving up to keeping the books for the company). The county fair starts next week, too, and I also need to get the protection order against Levi updated next week, so PLEASE keep me/us in your prayers as all of this comes to pass!

Interview

2010-08-19T22:27:00.002-06:00

I have an interview tomorrow for an administrative assistant position at an engineering firm! I have heard wonderful things about the company and am very excited to even be considered!

I will definitely report back!

Please pray for my heart to accept and be prepared for whatever decision and changes come from this. I know God knows what's best, but truly accepting that is another story!

27 Candles

2010-08-15T19:56:00.003-06:00

August 9 was my birthday.

It was awesome.

There wasn't anything specifically spectacular about it. It was just stress-free. I had come to dread "special" days. But this one was so nice. And to top it off, my family got me a shirt that I had wanted to buy myself but talked myself out of and they didn't even know I wanted it! Aside from me emailing a picture of it to every one of them, there's really no way they could've known.

And about 10:00 that evening, I got an email from Levi, stating: "what now i have a warrant for my arrest the cops are here and i have not done anything wrong good bye i hope your happy".

I had no idea what was going on, but I did have to laugh to myself. Either he was really being arrested or simply trying to get an emotional response out of me. Regardless, I was very thankful that I didn't have to worry about it. And, ok, ok, I thought it was a pretty sweet birthday present, too. It turned out he actually did get arrested. He failed to appear at a court date he had for his last DUI. I sent the police station of Twin Falls a thank-you note.

And I got the interrogatories turned in last Thursday. That was a good feeling. I'm interested to see what the next step will be. I know at some point we will have to meet with a custodial evaluator. Hope I'm not as awful to live with as Levi lead me to believe. Teehee!

Breaking Up is...Time-Consuming!

2010-07-30T17:43:00.003-06:00

So I've managed to steam-roll my way through most of the interrogatories! Don't act like you're not impressed. To be honest, I was rather intimidated by the questions being yelled at me from the page (they were in ALL CAPS). But I whipped out my angry eyebrows and bulleted list and they piped down.

I've been making phone calls to various people and sources I would call as witnesses. I told my mom earlier today that doing that makes me nervous. I guess not so much nervous as embarrassed. "Hello, Marriage Counselor. Remember me...from that one time...like 3 years ago? Yeeeeeah. Um, would you mind playing a vital role in my reality tv show of a life? No, I'm not going to pay you. No, there is no chance your mom will see you on tv. No, you'll have to supply your own wardrobe. Will it help if I ask for your autograph? Sweet. Thanks. Bye."

But things are moving forward and that makes me very happy. The light at the end of the tunnel is slowly getting brighter. I think I can even make out the front of the train it's attached to. :) I just hope that train's fulla money, 'cause if it runs over me without killing me, I'm gonna have ER bills on top of attorney bills and I'd hate to see the fight over who gets which arm/leg.

But seriously, I have never felt better. I feel confident and blessed and I'm excited for every tomorrow. I did apply for a job at Costco which I think I'd really enjoy, so could you maybe send up a few prayers for me (in addition to everything else)? :)

I'm learning to (a.k.a. struggling with) waiting on the Lord. This experience is growing me in many ways which I might not have otherwise known. I'm trying to rely more fully on Him and trust that He wants the very best for me and I just need to wait for Him to show it to me. (Side note: if you know me AT ALL, you know that patience is not something that I was "blessed" with. I just figured it's sitting in a divine basket somewhere, right next to my full feminine figure.)

God is good and Eric and I are doing fantastic!

Have You Heard?

2010-07-24T23:01:00.003-06:00

So, I kinda want to try something. I realize it may sound a little strange, and given the subject matter, it may even sound a little morbid.

I think I may want to write about the death of my marriage.

I guess it would be more specifically about the process than the actual death.

Most of you already know this has begun. And a lot of you have wondered why I stuck around this long!

Eric and I have been out of "the house" since May 30, 2010. And, figuratively speaking, neither of us has looked back. We've been enjoying a wonderful summer with my family. And I've been enjoying the built-in siblings for Eric without the pain of labor.

I officially filed for divorce June 24. Huh, that's exactly one month ago. The "announcement" was in the July 4th newspaper. Someone must've known it was worth celebrating.

*Please Note: I do not plan on curbing my sense of humor for the sake of the topic. It's as much a target as anything else. So deal with it, or you may show up in my next post.

For whatever {shady} reason, Levi's attorney's office did not present him with the papers until earlier this week -- like the 19th or 20th. So the weeks that had passed that contained my hope of a 20-day ruling, evaporated.

*looks upward* Must've been a reason for that, right??

I received Levi's "countercomplaint" yesterday (Friday). There were a lot of big words, even for me. If I understand correctly, he wants me to learn Italian and wants joint custody of the decorative star on the living room wall.

It included a set of interrogatories (was the word "questions" too understandable to qualify for legal terminology?) for me to answer. Mostly about possessions, debt, and possession of debt. Oh, and I also have to list any witnesses I plan on calling if this all goes to trial. I seriously hope I haven't burned any bridges with the local bartenders. . .

Sparks Were Flying

2010-07-05T12:37:00.004-06:00

With all the "controversy" surrounding this year's 4th of July, I've gotta admit that it was nice to have 2 days to celebrate it. Made for a much more relaxed celebration.

Eric and I, along with my mom, Shelley and Michael, made it to the annual Sagebrush Days parade in Buhl Saturday morning. Mom and Shelley were actually in the parade, with Shelley's 4H Group - Paca Kids. We all went to a big BBQ with a bunch of people from our church.

And yesterday, I spent part of the afternoon making a dessert to take to the Jarvis's house, who are some of my closest friends. Tyler & Johanna (and their boys) are some of my dearest friends as well, came to celebrate with us! We had hamburgers and hotdogs with all the delicious extras, watched a little baseball, passed baby Korbin around, lit some fireworks and just enjoyed each other's company.

L-R: Eric, Suzanne, Sydney, Bentley (on top), Tyler, Johanna, & Jon

Eric, Suzanne & Sydney playing with the sparklers!

My incredible girlfriends -- Johanna & Suzanne
And our kiddos -- Bentley, Eric & Sydney
(Not pictured: sleeping baby Korbin)

Names Can Be Deceiving

2010-06-29T12:32:00.004-06:00

I'm a loyal craigslist.com-checker, if such a thing exists. The allure of the incredible deal takes me to the site daily. So when I saw a listing for a spectacular furniture sale at a place called Hobo's Warehouse in Jerome, I had to see for myself.

I recruited my dad to accompany me after church this last Sunday so I would have another pair of scrutinizing eyes to size-up whether the deals were too good to be true. I was a bit apprehensive on the drive and as we walked up to the door because I had such high hopes and wasn't in the mood to see them crumble to pieces on the sidewalk.

I felt my hopes bump against the ceiling of the "warehouse" like a balloon that had just been released. It was everything I had hoped for and more. It wasn't an actual warehouse, just a small business suite in the middle of a tiny strip-mall, but the stuff that was stocked was gorgeous. And there were about 11 catalogs laying on a table of everything that could be ordered in!

I sat on every couch, opened every chest of drawers, and made about 6 laps through the store. I promised the owner that I would spread the word, and am thrilled to do so. I hope we can support her because we all like to have nice things, but if we can get them for a reasonable {or dare I say, cheap} price, it makes the difference between just owning the furniture and enjoying the furniture.

Reality {TV}? Check!

2010-05-28T12:13:00.006-06:00

I find it humorous, seeing the look on Levi's face as he looks from me, to the TV, then back to me, while "my shows" are on.

Watching my favorite reality TV shows is the most masculine thing I think I've ever done. No, I'm not watching something on Spike and I'm not scratching. . .anything. I think that because when they're on, I don't want to talk and don't want to be talked to. I can {almost} tune everything else out. I don't want Levi to sit next to me with his arm around my shoulders; I need adequate space to physically respond to the show {lean forward in suspense, throw my hands up in disgust, cheer with delight, etc.}

"Why do you like this stuff?" Levi asks.

I look at him like he's got a third eye.

My very cool, very casual {very sarcastic} response is, "It makes me feel better about my own life."

He's expecting such a feminine remark and acknowledges it with an exaggerated eye-roll. I look back at him with a smirk that oozes, "You had it comin', buddy."

But it got me thinking -- why do I like these shows? There's no educational value. And when I try to describe what the shows are actually about, even I have a hard time finding enough words to validate them {and myself}.

There is no question that I am entertained. I love watching the dynamics of relationships, the different personalities, and how each member of the cast approaches obstacles and stressful situations.

And that's what I think it is. I am constantly comparing the decisions they make with the ones I think I would make. Especially in confrontational situations where heated verbal exchanges take place and both sides either feel passionately about what they're defending or are too prideful to back down.

As I've gotten older, I have developed a violent distaste for game-playing. The kind that sucks life out of a relationship, time out of a day, and days out of a life. So I can appreciate confrontation, when done appropriately. And because confrontation is the very life-blood of reality TV, the more dramatically and viciously it is done, the better the ratings.

I don't necessarily agree with the method, but I agree with the point of it, which is getting things out in the open, tackling them head on, and then moving on, not necessarily as "BFFs", but having stood up for what you believe in, holding another person accountable, and expressing your self-worth as a human-being.

So I like observing the confrontation to see who keeps their cool, who is devouring the person standing before them, who has a good point, who's side, if any, I am drawn to, and to compare the comments that come to my mind to the ones being verbalized.

Easter

2010-05-17T14:41:00.004-06:00

It was that time of year again, when the Sunday School kiddos were practicing their songs in preparation for Palm Sunday. Eric and I would sing his songs in the car and he'd listen to them in his room. He knew all the words and promised me over and over that he was going to sing and I was going to love it {yes, he informed me of that}. I will admit that I did get my hopes up. Sadly, my handsome little man must've decided the congregation wasn't ready for such talent and maturely allowed the rest of the kids to do their best. ;)

Eric's on the far left, behind the girl in the pink.

Go Steelheads!

2010-05-17T14:19:00.007-06:00

In March, we made a trip to Boise with my family to catch an Idaho Steelheads hockey game! It was Eric's first time and we got great seats!

My dad used to play hockey and has always loved the game and I hadn't been in a long time, so it was a really fun experience for everyone!

And, of course, there were plenty of fights in this particular game, which made it even more fun!

During half-time, my sister LoriAnn, her husband Christian, and myself got to participate in a game on the ice! We were playing against another team of 3. We had to try to bounce rubber balls into a large trash can. No one made a single shot until the very end, when Lori won the game for us! We were given Steelheads t-shirts, rubber hockey pucks, and fun memories!

P is for Pinball & Pug

2010-05-17T14:03:00.004-06:00

Eric decided to bring his mini pinball game into the living room and Gracie took immediate interest in it. She would watch the little metal ball rolling and bouncing around with such intensity until she just couldn't stand it anymore.

She would rear back and pounce onto the plastic. When she then realized the plastic was in her way, she would "dig" furiously at it. I was quite impressed with her speed {and a little concerned about the game}.

It was so hilarious to watch. We were all just cracking up! And I don't think Gracie would've stopped "playing" with Eric if I hadn't asked him to finally take it back to his room.

Home Improvement

2010-05-17T13:51:00.004-06:00

The beginning of this year, we decided to make some long overdue updates to our house. The walls and carpet had been the same various shades of "white" since the first time I had stepped foot into the house. The carpet had been through a lot and the walls were more suited for a sterile, industrial building with the gray/blue/white color they had been painted.

I couldn't wait.

We ordered the new carpet, my mom and I ordered paint and when the {long, laborious, painstaking, totally worth it} process was complete, the aesthetics of the house went from:

to:

I have to be honest, though -- we're not completely finished yet. I need to finish painting the bathrooms and one small section of the hallway. Then we need to finish painting some of the trim (a lot of that has already been done; it's just labor-intensive and time-consuming). But I really love how everything has turned out.

Sit! Staaaaay...

2010-05-10T16:01:00.002-06:00

Eric's Sunday School decided to create a pet board so everyone could see each other's pets and discuss loving and caring for them. Each child was asked to bring in a picture. Eric just looked so handsome one Sunday morning, I asked him to sit next to our pugs. Gracie and Gus were so curious about the camera, but they obeyed very well and I was able to get a wonderful picture of the 3 of them.

My little squirts

Ba-da-da-da-da-da...

2010-04-24T12:13:00.007-06:00

BATMAN!

Once a superhero, always a superhero. Doesn't matter which one, either. But it's hard to beat a cape that actually flows and blows with the wind. Just like in the cartoon. Our neighbors must feel pretty safe knowing who lives at our house.

Dental Health

2010-04-24T11:56:00.003-06:00

The beginning of this year, I managed to floss pieces of one of my teeth out. It didn't hurt, but I was alarmed. So I made an appointment and thought it'd be good to get Eric in for the first time. He went in the day after I did and did great! I asked for a cleaning and decided to do complete x-rays as well so we'd have good records to reference down the road.

The doctor said his teeth look great! I was so happy! And he did incredibly well while the technician cleaned his teeth. We go to Drs. Roberts & Hall and we love the entire staff!{Though, they all have gleaming white, perfectly straight teeth, which I am a bit jealous of. Teehee!} They won Eric over right away with their Treasure Chest of toys.

Wondering why his toothbrush doesn't make those noises.

I, unfortunately, had to have a temporary filling put in, make another appointment to have my tooth drilled out and have a crown molded and then make another appointment to have the crown put on. That last part happens this coming Wednesday, the 28th. I forgot what it was like to have half your mouth, jaw, tongue, etc. completely numb. Not a big fan.

Quick! Before I Forget!

2010-02-13T12:00:00.003-07:00

Some verbal anecdotes...

1) Eric and I were at Walmart when he found a toy he just had to have. I, on the other hand, was willing to help him survive without it, so I said no. We kept looking around the aisles and he kept holding on to the little action figure. It was on clearance, so I took him aside and told him that if he really wanted it, he was going to have to buy it with his own money. I discussed the pros and cons, save-now-buy-later option, etc. But he understood and was serious (and excited) about buying it himself.
As soon as we got home, he ran to his room to get his piggy bank (in the shape of a football helmet). He just started handing me any random coin he saw and then sat back and said, "There you go, Mom. Now you can buy a new shirt, or pants, or bra, or those [pads] you put in your underwear -- all with your own money!"
I about died.
*Please note: due to a lowered amount of privacy a woman once encounters when she becomes a mother, my son discovered the pantiliners under the counter while I was in the bathroom. I asked if he could do me a "big" favor and hand me one. Apparently, it stuck with him more than I thought.

2) We were riding in the car when suddenly Eric says, "I can spell 'seatbelt'! See? Watch! 'P' 'U' 'S' 'H'. Seeeeatbeeeeelt {said very drawn out and slowly}." I was laughing so hard and I almost didn't want to correct him because I could understand why he thought it said "seatbelt". He was looking at the straps and buttons on his carseat. Right next to the release button, it says "PUSH". It made sense to him! Everything in the books he's read has been labeled with it's own name, why wouldn't his carseat?

3) Eric came to me and stuck out his wrist. "See? I got a scratch." I asked him what happened and was told that he scratched it on his toy box (or one of the toys in it). He asked if he could have a band-aid. After examining it closely, for good measure, the prognosis was no band-aid needed. He would make a full recovery. I gave it a kiss and expected him to run along and play. Instead, he looked up and me and said, "Kisses don't help."
And all this time, I thought I had a set of miracle-workers on the front of my face. {sigh}

Easy-Bake Memories

2010-01-26T10:54:00.004-07:00

I got my son an Easy-Bake Oven for Christmas.

Don't judge me.

It wasn't pink, which I think was a brilliant move on the manufacturer's part.

But Eric has loved to "cook" and "bake" and "take your order" ever since he figured out how to say the words. I remember the first time he saw a commercial for the EBO {Easy Bake Oven}. He was so quiet and so focused on what was going on. Then he turned to me and asked, "Mommy, is that real food? Can you eat it?" When I told him yes, he just couldn't believe it. And the usual stream of requests followed.

I grabbed one from Target while they were on sale, along with a few packages of gender-neutral snacks to bake {i.e. brownies, cookies, cake with white frosting, i.e. nothing pink}. He was so excited to try it and {once I managed to remember a light bulb} we finally set aside some time to "bake".

That little cowpie on the plate is his successful brownie! He is really laughing in this picture; he was so thrilled with the whole process! And after we ate dinner, he was able to enjoy all his "Easy" work.

Why Is the Stone Yellow?

2010-01-14T09:58:00.005-07:00

The last time I visited Yellowstone Nat'l Park, I was young. Let's see, to be more specific, I was probably about 11.

And that was the only time.

At the time, it was only LoriAnn, Traci, and I. My folks had been invited up to go snowmobiling with some friends from church. Had they known that their friends were reckless maniacs, our plans might have changed. But, we found out the hard way. {The men were regular snowmobilers; my dad -- not so much. They flew through the snow at alarming speeds. And not only did my dad not want to do that in the first place, but he also had LoriAnn and I riding with him. My dad's cheeks got so cold, the skin turned white. And Lori and I just wanted to get off.}

Anyway, my point is that what I saw of Yellowstone was a literal blur. I had heard tales of close encounters of the buffalo kind, but didn't get to see if they were true. So, it randomly struck me the other day {some 15 years later} that it would be fun to go. We have some snowmobiles, and I know Eric would absolutely love the wildlife {which I plan on seeing this time}. And I've never seen the geyser!

And I keep hearing about this "so-called" place. . .what was it? Jackson Hole? :)

More Head Trauma

2010-01-12T10:57:00.005-07:00

*WARNING: Pictures contain a bloody cut. Those with weak facilities may want to avoid this post.*

Sunday, the 10th, after the church service was over, Levi and I went to pick up Eric from his Sunday School class. I was signing him out as the teacher was telling me that he had been rocking his chair back and forth (which is a no-no) and managed to rock it too far, crashing backwards into a toy shelf.

She said he had bonked his head and cried a little bit when she picked him up and hugged him. But that he ended up just sitting shyly on his chair for the last few minutes of class. She didn't page me because she knew I'd be there in just a few minutes.

As soon as he came out of the room, I grabbed him in a big hug and he started to cry again. I asked him if he bonked his head and I cupped the back of his head with my hand. Then Levi told me there was blood. I looked at my hand and sure enough! The teacher hadn't seen it either and felt just awful that she didn't notice it.

So, I walked him into the bathroom so we could clean it up. I wasn't overly concerned because, as Levi has demonstrated, head wounds always bleed very readily. Well, the more I gently cleaned it, the better I could see what we were dealing with. Eric had a perfectly straight split on the back of his head. I called Levi into the women's bathroom and he said, "Yeah, he needs stitches." I was fine, just bummed out that we were going to have to take my baby to the doctor for another relatively serious reason. {The last time he was at the doctor's was to have his cast taken off his leg and that involved a very noisy saw.}

Eric started crying really hard when we told him that we were going to have a doctor help make it better. He was just really nervous. But as soon as we got there, he was fine! Even when he was told to lay down on his side, got the numbing shots and even when the staples* were being put in. Eric just played with Levi's cell phone, taking pictures of us and laying really still when he needed to. I was so proud of him!

And of course, we met up with my family for lunch afterwards and he was in the spotlight and loving every minute of it!

*They did 5 staples instead of stitches because it was in Eric's hair. We were told that removing stitches can hurt if the hair has been sew into them at all.

Sliced & Diced

2010-01-07T15:13:00.004-07:00

If you know my husband at all, you know how accident-prone he is {though some was call it karma, justice, you reap what you sow, etc.} :o)

Well, to add another tally-mark to his list of tragedies, please see Exhibit A: The Scalp:

Levi was working down in the salvage yard one frozen evening. He had his head under the mangled hood of a wrecked vehicle. The windshield had been busted out of it in the accident and was somehow thrown over the hood. I'm not completely sure of all the details because I heard about it in between phone calls of "I think I need to go to the hospital." and "There's blood everywhere." So, bear with me.

Anyway, the cracked windshield managed to collapse onto his head. It broke far more easily than normal because of the low temperature. And it made about 2 dozen perfectly straight cuts right on the top of his head.

I wasn't home at the time; I was about 15-20 miles away when this happened. I started getting a steady stream of phone calls from Levi. This, I expected, because he is prone to get a little dramatic in stressful situations. But, to his credit, he also couldn't see the top of his head and evaluate how badly he was cut. I told him to try and relax because head wounds always bleed like there's no tomorrow, but to try not to fall asleep.

When I got home, I found him sitting on the couch holding a bloody towel against his head. To be honest, one of my first thoughts was "You better not be getting any blood on that couch, mister!" But I quickly recovered with asking him to come into the kitchen {away from the couch} so I could examine his head. The bleeding had stopped, so I asked him if I could gently put some Neosporin with pain relief onto his head to help fight any possible bacteria. I didn't think rubbing some soap into a lather on his head was the best idea when the cuts were so fresh. :o)

Anyway, his head healed beautifully and there is not one trace of injury anywhere! I couldn't believe it!

More "Christmas" Than "Performance"

2010-01-07T14:51:00.005-07:00

December 6, 2009 was Eric's first Christmas performance with his Sunday School class. We had been practicing and practicing the songs every time we rode in the car. And as the day drew closer, he even told me he was excited about going up on the stage and singing in church.

Well, the day came, and the excitement evaporated! He made his way onto the stage, let the leaders place him wherever, then stuck his hands in his pockets and called it a day! I was in the front desperately trying to get a crack of a smile out of him for memory's sake, but 'twas all in vain.

One of the leaders came up to me afterward and said, "At least he knows how to look cool!" And he did; he looked so handsome. In the end, I was just glad he did look cute and was thankful for how tall he is -- makes it much easier to spot him and take pictures.

His "you're gonna pay for this" face.

As close as he came to smiling.

The whole crew.

Oh Man, Snowman!

2010-01-01T12:21:00.004-07:00

It finally snowed enough {with the right kinda snow} for us to make a very successful snowman! It was Eric's first time and was a huge help to me, in between his occasional spastic flops in the snow!

And because I know building a snowman is a large feat, I'm not usually so motivated to start the creation of one, but this year I had "won" a snowman kit at a white elephant gift exchange. It had everything we needed in it: buttons for his "shirt", smaller black dots for his eyes and smile, carrot nose, pipe, scarf, and hat!

What also came in very handy was the large decorative rock we have in our front yard. Saved us the trouble of creating the "plus-sized" bottom our snowman is sitting on. We just packed snow all around it and no one knows the difference!

Sun Valley

2009-12-30T11:40:00.008-07:00

Levi and I got to do something that I've wanted to do for years -- ever since I heard the activity existed. We got to go to Sun Valley and take a "sleigh" ride! I can't tell you how excited I was! Especially because the openings fill up very quickly. I made all the reservations and decided to do the day trip instead of the night one. It's been so cold around here lately that I thought we might enjoy it more the warmer it was {that really only applies to me; Levi is always warm; I sleep with socks and an extra blanket.} And I use the term "warm" loosely for the day of our trip. The temperature was between 27-30 degrees depending on the city we were in. But that was warmer than the evening temps of about 7 degrees.

Sun Valley Club

Our ride took us to the Sun Valley Clubhouse. A beautiful building with a beautiful view. It overlooks the golf course that serves as a preferred cross-country skiing destination. Snow-covered mountains and trees as far as the eye could see. Levi and I warmed up in there for a little while. I ordered their chicken curry soup and glass of wine. I tell you what, I was really torn between staying in the clubhouse, enjoying the food and view, and enjoying the rest of our ride!

On our way back

I don't think I have to tell you what a gorgeous day it was. The sunshine and blue sky made the entire city look like a picture out of a calendar.

Our Sweet Ride | Duke, Dan & Clay {driver}

When we were done, we strolled around the small town and visited the boutiques and shops. We didn't buy anything, of course, {the price tags are targeted at the likes of Bruce Willis and the Schwarzeneggar family}, but we did love just looking. Some artist decided to share their talent with the lucky visitors who managed to walk by their creations:

Snowflake

There was also a Christmas tree and a Santa sculpture. I really appreciate people who can manipulate the elements like that. They take a beautiful thing that God created and make another beautiful out of it. What is that? Like, beautiful squared or something?

We grabbed Chai lattes and stopped a couple places on our way home so I could snap a few pictures. I just love it.

When In Home

2009-12-19T21:15:00.004-07:00

*WARNING: The following post contains graphic, self-congratulating & back-patting by the author. Humble viewer discretion is advised.*

I did a lot today. And it felt good. Really good. I've actually been quite productive lately, and my accomplishments are emphasized with every item I cross off my never-ending lists.

But today was different. There were no lists, no expectations. It was supposed to be my last lazy Saturday before the Christmas festivities. {Oh, who am I kidding -- the Christmas festivities started the day after Thanksgiving.} But I actually pushed my butt outta bed, completed a 2-mile brisk walk in the comfort of my living room, trekked over to Sunsations to tan for a few minutes {but the Kids Klub was closed; maybe next time}, headed over to Appliance Warehouse to check out their dishwashers {my current one wants to keep the soap all to itself and not share any with the dirty dishes; it does this very noisily}, talked with Levi about said dishwashers, went home, made reservations in Sun Valley, made lunch, made cookie dough, vacuumed and cleaned while refrigerating cookie dough, made 2-dozen cookies out of aforementioned dough, went back to A.W. and placed order for dishwasher, came home with new microwave {at husband's request}, replaced new microwave with Gracie & Gus in the back of my car, took them to Petsmart for necessary nail-grinding {Gus took maybe a minute; they had to call in backup for Gracie *sigh*}, got stopped by every other store patron so they could tell me what clowns pugs are {of this, I am keenly aware}, brought dogs home, changed Eric's and my clothes, placed order with waitress at Applebee's.

{Ahhhh.}

And you want to know what else? Our dinner was entirely free. I had a $25 certificate and our dinner came to $24.53. Even with dessert! That was {quite literally} the cherry on top!

{I did tip our waitress well, so hopefully we both had a good night.}

What a wonderful day. It's a good thing I managed to kick my own butt through that 2-mile walk this morning; I think it gave me the jumpstart I needed to make this an incredible day! Eric even let me borrow his Disney Christmas cd so we could flood the house with holiday music. The Lord has blessed us so much. Thanks for being one of those blessings.

Only 6 days 'til Christmas!

Frosty Fun

2009-12-06T17:37:00.003-07:00

I've sure been having fun so far this Christmas season. The shopping has been a blast! Giving gifts is something I love to do anyway; I enjoy hunting down that perfect gift for that special someone that I know they will love. I put serious effort into the process but the pay-off is always worth it. Eric's birthday gave me a jump-start on the shopping which has been nice -- it's given me time to make sure I remember everyone I feel I should.

I had forgotten about one of my favorite cookie recipes that I had made last year. I had written it down in a little notebook and {thankfully} it was still there!

Austrian Jam Cookies

No treat has ever disappeared so quickly. Sweet and salty always compliment each other, but this combination is perfect. So I'm very excited about making more this year!

I got our tree up about a week ago. I do the same decorations every year and never tire of them: various gold and red lovelies. My favorite items are the large red poinsettias. I clipped them on all over the tree and they make it so bright and cheerful.

One of the channels on tv has been playing a loop of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. I don't think that movie will ever go out of style. This is the first year I've watched the whole thing. Boy is it funny. And it's really a clean kind of funny. I had forgotten that Julia Louis-Dreyfus played one of the neighbors. Her physical comedy just kills me; one of the reasons I like Seinfeld.

Anyway, I'm going to go see if I can find another holiday movie playing while it snows outside. Only 18 days 'til Christmas!

Sweet!

2009-11-21T18:36:00.003-07:00

I was so excited about this deal that I wanted to share it. Macy's just recently had their famous One Day Sale. I also had a few coupons and a savings pass that I had brought along. I absolutely love the things Macy's sells, but often times can't justify paying full price for them. So I was anxious to make the most of the sale.

We had picked names in my family, with a limit of $20. The adults usually help each other out with ideas to make it a bit easier and to ensure everyone gets something they actually want. :) And my mom had told me that someone in that "group" had picked me, so if I found something I liked to tell her.

Well, I found something. And since the website won't allow me to save the picture file, you should be able to view it here.

And it was on sale for $19.99! I couldn't believe it! What's even better, I found a sweater-dress in the same color (something that I have wanted for a long time) on sale for the same price.

Well, between the sale prices of the day combined with a coupon I was able to use, I got both of them for $27.84! My mom and I split the total and she took the coat home with her to wrap! The bottom of the receipt told me how much we had saved from the regular prices: $51.02! We saved over $50 on 2 things! I couldn't believe it! What a ridiculous success that turned out to be!

Untitled

2009-11-19T14:51:00.003-07:00

It's been a long time since a death has touched this closely to my family. And I praise God for that. My family has been abundantly blessed with long, healthy lives (I still have all of my grandparents). It's something I know I take for granted every day.

The last time the mystery of death shadowed my world was several years ago. My sister's and mine childhood friend and neighbor was killed in a car accident. It was surreal and devastating to me. She was 15.

Today I was asked to make a printout of a handsome young soldier who had died in Iraq on Nov. 8. His unique last name made me hold my breath because I knew that last name: Heffelfinger. We had the pleasure of being neighbors to a 50-something couple with the same last name a few years ago. Craig & Barb.

I became rather close to Barb, visiting her frequently, talking about gardening and flowers, and homemade cards and jewelry. We could sit for literally hours and chat.

Barb became sick with multiple illnesses and to make a long story short, had to be on an at-home IV for several weeks. She asked if I would be willing to learn how to change her IVs and bandages so the nurses wouldn't have to come anymore. Of course, I said yes.

It was an interesting experience for me and it brought us closer together. She talked often of her children. One of them, an Apache helicopter gunner, if my memory serves me. As most military mom's (I imagine), she was incredibly proud and worried sick at the same time. He was good at what he did.

But I couldn't remember his first name. The name of the soldier in the picture I had was Mathew Heffelfinger. "Mathew" with only one "t". I found a picture of him smiling and gasped, "He looks just like Barb." I continued researching the events of his death and the word "helicopter" flew out of one of the articles and about slapped me across the face. I had been clinging to the hope that he may just be another un-related Heffelfinger until I read that.

I couldn't take it anymore. I had to know for sure. It was like I was teetering on a tight-rope and didn't dare breathe for fear the slightest change would make me fall. I called the man who had sent me the picture and asked if he knew Mathew's parents' names. He said, "Craig." I finished with "And Barb."

Mathew Heffelfinger

It was real. And it's awful. The service is tomorrow and I honestly don't know if I can bear to go. I suffer horribly when those around me suffer. I become painfully empathetic, putting myself in the family's position and my heart literally aches. It is truly an excruciating experience for me. I hope that doesn't sound like the beginning of a bad excuse. It just effects my life so profoundly and very few can understand why. My brain clicks to "sorrow" mode and immediately begins making me acutely aware of the things the family will no longer be able to share with their loved one. And the things the loved one will never be able to do.

Then everything Eric says and does makes me want to cry because I never want to take him for granted.

*whew*

It's rough on me. I needed somewhere to spill all of this, so here it is. I honestly feel better. That surprises me. I'm thankful for that. And thankful for every day the Lord gives me with the people I love. I don't care how bad it gets, people, you will always have something to be thankful for.

Fa-La-La-La-Lots To Do!

2009-11-06T18:29:00.005-07:00

I feel like we have been so busy lately. And it's been really fun stuff! It's like the whole world shifts gears when October hits. As soon as all the hype of Halloween dies down, Christmas hits like an avalanche.
I love the down-pour of harvest festivals, craft fairs, and SALES in general! I try to hit our local Real Deals at least once a week {it's only open 2 days a week.} And this weekend, the annual CSI Harvest Craft Festival started with over 200 vendors! It's so fun to look and get ideas {like homemade fudge and jewelry}.
And I started teaching pre-school crafts at my church on Wednesday nights, every other month. November is my month. It's so much fun. And Eric gets to be in my class. He's still not quite sure of the "mommy-as-a-teacher" concept. In the midst of 3 little people yelling "Teacher! Teacher!" I'll hear his voice say "Hi, Mom." I think he does it to make sure I still answer to it. :)
We're also getting ready for my little man to celebrate his 4th birthday. It's coming up fast, but I'm prepared. He's just trying to decide between a Wolverine theme or Scooby-Doo. And that, my friend, is a hard decision for the 3-year-old mind.
I just finished designing my grandparents' (on my mom's side) 50th wedding anniversary invitations. They turned out so beautifully. I'm so thankful I got to play a part in such a special day in their lives. My family, Eric, and I are going to So. California in December to celebrate with them. It's been a few years since I've seen all my relatives down there, so I'm really looking forward to it. Unfortunately, Levi can't go, but someone's gotta hold down the fort {and make sure my other 2 "kids" have food and water}.
We got our house siding fixed a couple weeks ago after the fire I'm sure most of you know about. It looks perfect; you would never tell anything had happened. And Levi sold his toasted pickup to a guy in Caldwell. He loved Levi's truck so much, he wants to rebuild it. {Best of luck to ya, bud!}
We're heading up to Boise tomorrow to visit my sister and her husband for her birthday! Her birthday's not til the 9th, but we all get to go to the huge movie theater and watch the new A Christmas Carol movie! It should be a great time! Eric and I have never been there. {Last time my family went, he and I hit up Chuck E. Cheese!}
I think the next thing on my to-do list is figure out our Christmas photo. I love doing that every year, but I've never been this tardy! I welcome all ideas! ;)

Before the Trees Get Naked

2009-10-21T09:14:00.005-06:00

This past Saturday, my girlfriend Suzanne and I had planned on taking her family pictures somewhere in the beautiful fall foliage. The leaves had just started to turn and the weather forecast was mostly sunny in the low 70s. I had gone hunting for a good spot the day before and captured my little guy {looking entirely too old.}

That morning, I watched her baby girl, Sydney, while Suzanne attended a baby shower. While Eric, Sydney, and I were hanging out, I noticed the thousands of pretty yellow leaves in my neighbor's yard. We went over and asked if we could rake them up and "borrow" them for some pictures. My neighbor generously said yes, so I loaded Syd up in her stroller, got Eric's wagon, and then grabbed the dog's little blue pool.

Anyway, that evening, we went out with Suzanne, her husband Jon, and Sydney, and got a few really cute shots. {These aren't edited yet, but you get the idea.}

{Leaves are imported from my neighbor's yard.}

Oh, The Possibilities

2009-10-05T19:52:00.005-06:00

So, a girlfriend of mine and I are thinking we need to throw a Fall/Halloween/We're-Adults-But-We-Don't-Care-We-Wanna-Dress-Up-Too shin-dig. I found out she's known for years what she'd want to be if given the chance to dress up:

A) Pirate

B) Vampire

Simple enough. She would be perfect for either character.

So, why is it that I am having such a hard time figuring this out? To be honest, I haven't actually thought about dressing myself up {besides the usual mandatory morning routine which is way less fun} since our church's second-to-last Harvest Festival. I was a cheerleader. And I believe I was a freshman in high school.

Yeah. It's been a while.

Nowadays, Halloween revolves around the plethera of superhero/ninja/soldier/masked whatever costumes the retailers convince little boys they simply can't live without. {"But Mo-ooommm! How will I fight the bad guys without a suit?!"}

Apparently "bad guys" have gotten so bad that they don't realize their sword/web/laser-wielding opponent is actually a superhero without an emblazoned "S", spider, or bat somewhere on the chest-area of the clothes said opponent is wearing.

*sigh*

So my friend and I have been batting around ideas for me. I've listed a few below.

Saloon Girl

Gangster/Mobster

Pink Ranger
{This is my son's choice}

Flamingo

What to do. . .what to do. . .

*Please note: I have neither the cleavage nor the desire to wear the exact costumes pictured. They are merely visual aids. Feel free to lower your eyebrows.

Cock-A-Doodle-Don't

2009-09-30T10:23:00.002-06:00

{5:30 a.m.}

I'm hearing some sort of rhythmic, throaty noise emanating from under my bed. I turn my phone on for some light and shine it under there, though, I really didn't need to. I had already assumed it was one of my dogs puking.

I can very clearly see that I was correct in my assumption.

I am now wishing I hadn't had the light from my phone to prove me right in such detail.

{5:57 a.m.}

I am boring a hole in the ceiling with my eyes as I lay in bed, listening to the dog who just woke me up with his partially-digested food, snore and snore. I'm not sure if I'm more upset that he's woke me up again or that he's sleepy soundly. Both.

I convince myself he's actually awake and is just laying there, with one eye peeking open, waiting to see how long it takes me to get out of my warm bed. I don't get up -- I fly out of my bed. This dog will not get the best of me! Ha!

So, I push both my dogs off their bed and lug it into the kitchen. Reason why this is a spectacular idea #1) Distance makes the snores grow quieter {or whatever that old chestnut is} and, #2) Dog vomit cleans up off of linoleum in a fraction of the time it takes to get it out of the carpet.

G'night.

{6:30 a.m.}

What is that? Hmm, must just be my hair getting situated between my head and the pillow.

But I'm not moving.

What the?!

If you thought I moved quickly during the snoring, you hadn't seen anything yet.

When something feels the need to crawl across my forehead in the early morning hours (actually, any hour of the day is unacceptable), I don't mess around. It will die. I will thrash around and pound every square inch of my bed until anything besides myself is unable to even offer an apology.

{I then apologize to Levi for scaring him witless.}

Mr. Spider, you picked the wrong girl on the wrong morning.

{Somewhere between 8:00 & 8:30 a.m.}

I am cozy and warm and finally sleeping when I am suddenly aware that Eric has come into my bed (Levi had left for work at some point.)

I ask the usual question first thing in the morning: "Are you wet?"

"Um, no. My bed is, but I'm not! I took my wet underwear off and put them in the sink and put these other ones on," is the response.

I could tell by his 3-yr.-old voice that he was proud of his problem-solving ability. Unfortunately, my brain was still on "irked" mode and this announcement didn't help. Mostly because just 3 days ago, I had sworn to myself that I was going to get his comforter to the laundromat. It had been folded up and stored in the office for the entire summer because it was too warm and it was a pain to wash every time he peed. Oh, and the teensy little issues of dog barf and the spider tour de Janelle.

So, I made it to the laundromat, used one of the commercial-size washers, inserted about 117 quarters, waited & waited, and got it clean! It air-dried in my backyard and was finally ready to use -- especially with the cooler temperatures! And now I have to do it all again!

*sigh*

I consoled myself with a huge slice of raspberry-cherry pie. Alright, alright, maybe not. But I thought about it.

Strawberries on my Cheerios'll work, too.

Farmer's Market Booty

2009-09-26T12:37:00.003-06:00

And by "booty" I mean loot, treasures, lovelies, etc.!

Eric and I actually were out scouting yard sales when I saw the sign for the local Farmer's Market! I couldn't believe I had forgotten about such an event! I believe there was about 30 vendors there today and almost all had samples of their wares!

I tell ya -- nothing clenches a sale like the lure of free jams/breads/cookies/pies/produce/beads/hot pads/you get the idea.

Homemade Potpourri | Orange Spice

Homemade 7" Pie | Raspberry Peach

Seasoned Sea Salt | Makes incredible chicken!

Three other items were purchased that I did not get pictures of: a frosted sugar cookie and 2 homemade, gourmet dog treats {made with flour, garlic, and parmesan. $.25! I almost saved them for myself! They smelled so good!} Gracie and Gus barely let those get in the door!

I believe there are about 4 Saturdays left. This wonderland ends for the season on Oct. 24. It's from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. So worth it!

Breaking Up With Summer

2009-09-25T16:49:00.003-06:00

Dear Summer,

I need to confess something to you. While in the midst of feeling your soft, warm caress this afternoon, I looked out the window -- only for a moment -- when I saw a. . .a. . .well. . .I saw a leaf fall to the ground. And I watched it fall all the way down.

{downcast eyes}

I know it isn't any excuse, but I want you to know the leaf hadn't yet discarded its green coloring. And while it may not have been any hue of red, orange, or yellow, it still distracted me from you. And I am ashamed.

Please know I never meant to hurt you. You have been good to me the last two months and I wouldn't trade those for the world. But if this is the end of our hot, seasonal affair, then I understand.

Until next year, my sweet, sweet Summer Sun. . .

Step Right Up, Folks!

2009-09-08T16:12:00.002-06:00

Another year of corn dogs, cotton candy & "Can we do it again?!" has come and gone. And stomach-ache or not, we survived it.

I must say, though, this year was {far} more bearable than most. With the exception of a couple of days that convinced me we had arrived on the surface of the sun, the weather was incredible! And what's even more -- tolerable levels of people.

I'll take the heat over a {crabby} crowd any day.

Eric and I hit the ride scene on Thursday. It was one of the hottest days, but we found occasional refuge in the shade of telephone poles. There was not one line to be had. Not for the rides {or} the elephant ear stand! Did your jaw just hit your desk? 'Cause I totally heard it.

For those of you who may not know why such a statement is so unbelievable or would like to know what breed of people choose to stand in line to purchase an ear from an animal native to Africa, please allow me to explain: an elephant ear is a giant spherically-shaped scone, smothered in butter and either one or all of the following: powdered sugar, cinnamon & sugar, honey. They are usually boiling-lava hot but you eat them anyway because {even though your tongue can't actually taste it} your brain is telling you it's divine. It's a fact. Factual enough that the line for such a fried delicacy usually spans across at least half the entire area allotted for food vendors. {sigh}

This setup makes it irritatingly difficult for the ladies to make their way to the purse vendor on the far side {so I've heard...}

Saturday, I returned to the fair in the afternoon to play a small part in a Modbe fashion show. It was tons of fun with several cute girls and I got to wear an adorable top with some super-cute jeans. And we got our makeup done. What girl wouldn't want that?

I then got to meet up with one of my best friends {Suzanne Jarvis} and her husband {Jon} and their baby girl {Sydney}. We wandered through the animal barns and watched Syd squeal with delight at her first encounters with several animals: horses, goats, sheep, etc. The goats nibbled at her bare toes with their nimble lips and she giggled and giggled! It was {adorable}! We then enjoyed the final night of the rodeo with great seats and a full moon! And Suzanne got to experience Mutton Bustin' for the first time!

Monday, Levi, Eric & I made it to the Demolition Derby. It was great watching the clunkers go from the classic "boats" as we knew them to compact cars with no front bumpers and always-on windshield wipers. We got some nachos and Eric got a corn dog and we had a really nice, cool evening. After the derby, we grabbed some mini-donuts and Levi got a Tater-Pig, chatted up some friends and headed out before the crowds.

Fair 2009 -- Success

New Vintage

2009-09-08T11:53:00.002-06:00

I updated my blog (yet again). Sorry, it's what I do. I get bored easily -- one of the reasons I hate flying.

Anyway, I really like how this turned out. It's simple and classic; not sure how you can beat that.

Ok, to be honest, I'm hoping it'll inspire me to post more frequently. Does that sound ridiculous to anyone but me? {sigh} I'm looking for motivation and pretty things have a tendency to motivate girls.

I hope you're still reading this.

Leave me comments reassuring me you haven't decided to question my intellect and what you use for motivation. ;)

My Digital Portfolio

2009-09-01T11:45:00.002-06:00

I'm not sure how many of you know about my solution to paying for a website to showcase my design work (or how many of you know that I even do that), BUT nevertheless, I have a link to the right of my page that take those who chose to click to a small blog of my work.

J DESIGNS

I have been told that my business name is less-creative than my actual work, but I love it. The "J", of course, stands for "Janelle" though a number of people have tried to be "creative" (and by "creative", I mean "sarcastic", "funny", "that's quite a stretch", etc.) But that's to be expected from the people I choose to surround myself with.

Anyway, all of my work is completely custom. I get asked about pricing for certain types of work but can only really offer my hourly rate. I never put a one-lump-sum on any project because it is absolutely a guarantee that my client will find 27 of the most time-consuming details to change. Which is fantastic; I am happy to oblige.

I'm also happy to get paid for my time.

Anyway, you can click the word "J DESIGNS" above to visit it, if you'd like. And just because you may not see something doesn't mean I can't do it. It just means I haven't...yet.

And I know it's early (oh, for crying out loud, I can't believe I'm even going to say this), but it's a great time to start thinking about fun, custom Christmas greetings for super cheap!

Questions? Demands? --> j.dzyns@hotmail.com

Oh, He's Listening Alright

2009-08-12T10:42:00.003-06:00

Eric is an amazing communicator. His vocabulary is huge and he can carry on like an adult. And nothing could make me prouder...or make me want to slap my forehead...like his "little" 3 year old mouth.

The subtlety and obvious nature of what children say is just hilarious. Like, when I stub my toe, for example, and Eric will ask me "What did you do?" I'll tell him what happened and that it hurt my toe and he responds with "Well, don't do that then."

Problem solved.

And one of the most memorable times was when he was sitting on the couch, by himself, playing with his Optimus Prime transformer. He loves that toy, but it gets the best of him sometimes. My proof comes from what I overheard as I was in the adjoining kitchen: "I'm so frustrated with this damn* transformer thing!"

I slapped my hand over my mouth to stifle the laughter over what I could not believe I had just heard. My beautiful, pure baby boy, playing innocently with his toy on the couch with, what I imagined to be, black residue on his little lips!

After I composed myself, I calmly and nonchalantly mentioned that that wasn't a nice word and we try not to say it...so, how's about that weather?!

Anyway, onto my true inspiration for this post: this morning.

Levi had just gotten up for work; I was still laying in bed when Eric came and crawled into the newly-vacant spot. Levi came crashing down on both of us, pestering us with poking and tickling. Well, I don't care to be manhandled first thing in the morning, so I sternly asked him to stop.

No luck.

He kept at it and kept at it. I was getting irritated and Levi knew it so he thought he'd try to make it "all better" my placing little kisses on my shoulder. It wasn't working and even Eric knew it because the next thing we heard was:

"You're only kissing her because you're in trouble!"

My kiddo is way too observant.

*please note: I do not use that language. It is not acceptable speech. However, Hollywood insisted on putting it in SpiderMan--one of Eric's all-time favorite movies. And dog-gone it, he learned exactly where to put it in a sentence. Part of me feels like writing a strongly-worded letter...the other part is thankful for the laugh. ;)

You'd Think, With ALL Those Legs...

2009-08-11T11:34:00.004-06:00

Saturday, the 8th, I had planned to wash my car. It was filthy and I couldn't take it anymore; nothing was going to get in my way (even the dark clouds grimacing down at me). So, I got my towels, soap, and sponge and headed to the garage to get the bucket...

Look who was waiting to greet me! I'm fairly certain I saw my reflection in his eyes, that's how big he was...or at least appeared to be. There was a Chapstick on Levi's toolbox, so I grabbed it--and my camera--so you can get an idea of what I'm talking about here.

Unfortunately, I couldn't put all those long legs to use in washing my car, and I really didn't want Eric or the dogs to find it (or the other way around), so I brought it to the opposite side of our house and...well...I squished it. I didn't like doing it, but I figured it was the lesser of two evils.

*shudder*

Green Acres

2009-08-01T17:16:00.002-06:00

Eric and I (along with Gracie & Gus, of course) have been out at my folks' dairy since Monday. They left for Californina...without us. *sigh* So, instead of sulking and pouting around, I put my big-girl panties on and decided the decent thing to do would make sure nothing died.

I'm just that kinda gal.

We've been having a good time over here watering my mom's 1,027 flowers and tomatos, getting the dogs to stop eating unmentionables, fishing dead flies out of the pool...you know, the "good times".

Be jealous.

Nah, it's not really that bad. It's been so warm that we've been making good use of the pool and I have been watering the plants as late as 11:00 p.m. because it feels great out at that hour.

Their neighbors left the day after my folks did and now I'm watching their house too. The wife has a huge garden and it smells so fresh! She very generously told me I could have whatever I wanted while they were gone and I already have about 6 zucchini (sp?). Any takers? My only real concern about their place is their chocolate lab, Molly. She's lonely over there and is so excited to see me when I get there that she usually tries to sneak across busy 3700 and come with me. I hate it because it makes me paranoid; I cringe every time a car drives by just in case she decided to venture over right at that moment. I feel bad but I just can't let her come with me. She will begin to think crossing the road is OK and it's not.

Anyway, I've been giving the pugs swimming lessons in the pool. Ok, not really. They already know how. Though, Gus is a better sinker than swimmer. His chubby butt heads downward before he can make much headway. But that stinker loves to be wet! He gets all spastic and giddy as soon as he gets out. It is hilarious! And Gracie is an incredible swimmer. She streamlines right through the water. Then she'll swim up to me and I'll hold her in the water and she falls asleep! It's one of her favorite places! The cool water on her belly, the sun on her face, and me (a.k.a. her servant) is holding her.

See? Dogs don't ask for much. They just want you to stop what you're doing and focus entirely on them. Hmmm, come to think of it, that sounds a bit like my husband...

About a Blog

2009-07-25T12:21:00.002-06:00

I've been having a great time figuring out this whole blogging thing throughout the last few years and of course, my favorite aspect of it all is customizing. I have great respect and appreciation for the gals who design the layouts that we all use and admire. I have yet to give that a shot, but I have started doing my own banners. Given, they're nothing to write home about, but they just give my page a personal touch and darn it, I have fun doing it!

On that note, I just wanted to let you know that if you'd like me to do a simple one for your page (with or without your own picture(s)) just let me know! No cost, no obligation, just fun! I'm on my computer all the time anyway! So if you're interested, just leave me a comment and we can go from there!

To Post...and Post and Post

2009-07-14T10:10:00.004-06:00

I've had several events nagging at me from my camera, so for the sake of efficiency (and my own sanity), here are 3 posts in one!

Being a good daughter for a good Oma (my mom, Eric's grandma), I took a picture of him and his new bike soon after we got it for him on her camera. So, ever since the day Eric got his first bike, May 4, 2009, my brain has been telling me that I did, in fact, take a picture of the occasion. Which is technically true. Unfortunately, it wasn't until the other day that I actually got a picture of him and his bike that is of any use to me!
This boy's legs are so long, he makes the bike look oddly small, but it's his first one and I didn't want him to be too far off the ground if/when he toppled off it. And he doesn't mind it at all. Eric can get on/off it very easily and I think it gives him a little more confidence. And he has been excelling at the whole "pedal-while-not-steering-into-the-side-of-the-house" concept, especially lately! I'm very proud of him!

This year has been a pretty exciting year for Eric, as it's been the first year he's really been able to understand and anticipate certain events. Like the 4th of July! We go to the parade in Buhl every year, and most of the floats/participants toss candy to the kids every year. Well, this year, he understood that they do that and that he can have whatever candy came his way! So, in the couple of days leading up to the parade, we made a trip to a craft store (coupon in hand) and he got to pick out a canvas bag and some patriotic decorations to carry his candy in. I did the iron-on letters but Eric did the rest! He loves anything hands-on/artsy, especially if he can actually use it or play with it after! I think he did a fantastic job and it worked perfectly--he filled it with candy and was showing everyone his handiwork.

And, for the finale, we have a couple of silly boys in a tub. Only, one of them isn't supposed to be in there! I had put Eric in the tub because he had been hot and sweaty and he also wasn't feeling the best. A bath is always a great, feel-good activity. So good, in fact, that Gus couldn't stand being left out.
Every time Eric has a bath, Gus is hanging over the side of the tub, trying to drink the water or lick the bubbles or love on Eric. Well, the fluffy bubbles proved to be too much a temptation for him and *plop!* in he went! Both my dogs love water, but Eric didn't love having Gus in there, so out he came, bubble beard and all! It was priceless!

Ice Creamed

2009-06-27T18:02:00.006-06:00

After a couple disappointing evenings of hearing the blaring, cringe-inducing music of the ice cream truck but never actually seeing it, we finally got it stopped at our address!

I heard the music before Eric did, so I got some money and asked him what that noise was. His eyes lit up and a huge smile spread across his face as he asked me, "Can it come to our house this time?!" After seeing his hopeful little face for the 3rd time, I was praying that it would.

And sure enough, as we stepped out our front door to wait for it, it showed up! I ran back inside to grab my camera and Eric discussed the chilled choices with the driver!

SpiderMan ice cream?! That was one happy little boy! "Next time," Eric said, "I'm getting Batman!"

S.U.M.M.E.R.

2009-06-24T22:31:00.004-06:00

S.unshine

U.ndress

M.agical

M.arvelous

E.ndless

R.elax

Insert whatever summer-esque words you prefer. You get the idea.

Udderly Surprised

2009-06-18T17:08:00.006-06:00

Yes, that was a shameless pun, but I couldn't resist. About two months ago, I was invited to join a website called ProudToDairy.com. I was glad to accept the invite and once I logged in and started checking the site out, I realized I had joined just in time to participate in a t-shirt design contest that was being put on!

I absolutely love stuff like that and spent a couple days mulling over some ideas. If you know me at all, you know I tend to take the "humor route". It's way more fun. Any sort of sarcasm, play on words, etc.

When I got a little slogan stuck in my head, I sat down at my computer and just kinda made a corresponding image to bring it all together. It really isn't anything spectacular, but I think that may be part of the beauty of it. It was short, basic, literally black-and-white, and most of all, I believe most of the website members (or their families) could relate...with a chuckle and perhaps a roll of the eyes.

"these 4 are my 9-5"

And wouldn't you know it--I won! That just really made my day! I really getting a kick out of others being able to appreciate and connect with something I come up with. And what made the win even more fun is that the shirt is now an actual product and available to purchase (at 10% off during June for Dairy Month)! You can find them here.

The image above was featured in the Progressive Dairyman magazine along with a short article also featuring 3 very good honorable mentions. I had a blast with the whole process and wanted to share it with you!

Bedtime Snories...

2009-06-13T13:44:00.002-06:00

Yes, that says "Snories". Between my two pugs and Levi, I've been going nuts! They are all sound asleep (emphasis on sound) while I lie awake feeling like a drugged crazy person! Levi has a history of snoring, but for the past while it's gotten worse and I'm not sure why. And ever since I thought I was doing a nice thing and bought a big new bed for my pugs, I've almost regretted it! It's big and soft and Gus thinks it's necessary to sprawl out completely upside-down (I will try to get a picture some time). That is his sole sleeping position. NOT good for his nasal passages! I don't know how he can sleep and breathe like that!

So, often I end up in the office where my bed is from before we were married. And I am able to sleep. But I'd rather stay in our bed where I'm already warm and cozy and cut out all the messing around!

Any suggestions or unused ear plugs? ;) And do they make Breathe-Rite strips for dogs (specifically dogs with minimal-to-no-nose?) Hahaha!

From My Back Door Lookin' Out

2009-06-09T18:46:00.007-06:00

The other day, I was in my backyard, not doing anything in particular, when I just stopped and looked around. I absolutely love our backyard and I just soaked it in. Levi put so much work into that yard and landscaping and we enjoy it so much every single day. And it's very peaceful--when the neighborhood dogs decide to keep their yaps shut...

So, to give you an idea of what he's done and what I was appreciating, here's a small example of my view:

Levi and a couple of his buddies in the landscaping business cut and laid almost every one of those pavers by hand. Behind the house and right next to the patio furniture and gazebo is also a hot tub.

The grass looks great in this picture, but it doesn't do justice to my hanging baskets! The pink one on the left was from my sister and bro-in-law for Mom's Day! It's been a bloomin' machine! And the gigantic purple one on the right was from Levi for our anniversary. It's like flowers on steriods! I've never seen such an overflow! And of course Eric puts a smile on my face every time!

While we were splashing around in the kiddie pool with the pugs, Eric got the clever idea to push his stroller up against the side, take a seat in it, and dip his toes in the water! It must've looked really comfortable because a teeny, tiny ladybug stopped in for a visit. Boy, was it small! Eric just loved it, saying "He's my best friend!"

And leave it to Levi to bring another motorized recreational vehicle to our home! This is the littlest 4-wheeler we've ever seen! Levi got it from a man while picking up a junk car on his property. So, Eric got out his safety goggles and screwdrivers and helped get it "all fixed".

White-Water

2009-06-03T16:18:00.005-06:00

Alright, I'm sick of looking at my scratched car! So onto a lighter subject: rafting!

One of my best friends in the whole world came to visit a couple weeks ago from Minnesota! Janelle (we share the name) and her husband Steve joined us on a rafting trip in Hagerman! Boy, talk about fun! We had a blast and the time went by way too quickly.

It was her and Levi's first time ever and they did awesome! And the really cool part is that each one of us got to "ride the bull" while going over the rapids! Woohoo! We also got to see tons of pelicans, a fox, and a lone deer!

Our guides were great and they got a good laugh out of all the sarcastic comments and b.s. flying around the raft that day!

Janelle squared.

Steve + Levi = Stevi

It was cold but so fun!

At the end of our trip!

A Thief In the Night

2009-05-26T19:35:00.008-06:00

Unbeknownst (sp?) to me, my house was the popular place to be Thursday night. To make a long, miserable story shorter, someone made a lasting impression on my car. After they felt they had been thorough enough with my car, they selectively picked through Levi's tools, only taking a few expensive ones out of his toolbox. My purse, dvd player, keys, etc. inside my car were not touched. I thought that was very considerate of whomever it was.

These are only some of the spots that were keyed. They scratched every part of my vehicle: headlights, taillights, roof rack, brush guard, etc. Top to bottom. With the exception of my wheels, which I am very thankful for. The estimate came to over $9000.00. I had to take a minute and find my eyeballs after they had popped out of my head when I heard that.

And then, as if that wasn't enough, Sunday night rolled around and...

Levi got a rock through his back-glass, shattering it. Levi wasn't home when my car got it; he was home when his truck got hit. The cops were called and we've got a really good chance at convicting the ones who did it (we know who they are.) ;)

On the Boat Again!

2009-05-18T11:17:00.011-06:00

Yesterday the temperature reached 90 degrees and that called for a celebration! We hooked up to my father-in-law's pontoon boat, loaded my car down with towels, sunscreen, water bottles, fishing poles, and (of course) the dogs! We unloaded down at Centennial Park and it was a blast! And it was the dogs' first time ever--they couldn't get enough of the whole experience.

Levi manning the wheel

Gracie & Roxie enjoying the wind and new smells

Gus riding shot-gun

Eric & his Batman fishing pole

A glimpse of the rare "man smile"

Centennial has these rocks spanning from one side of the canyon to the other. On either side of this picture were low-level water falls and shallow streams.
This was one of our favorite parts of the whole day!

The whole time wasn't carefree--as I was sitting off the back of the boat, dipping Gracie in the water to cool her off, the little swinging door bonked Gus on the butt. It was just enough to push him off the boat, into the water. And he was gone. I believe my heart stopped. It seemed like forever that he was submerged, and I was just about ready to jump in after him when his head finally surfaced. I grabbed him by all that extra skin and sat with him in the sun for a while. We thought for sure he'd be terrified of the water after that, but after a little coaxing and a helping hand, he was feeling a little more adventurous. Not nearly as fearless as Gracie (who seems to believe she is actually a Great Dane), but I was proud of him!

Addiction to Sunshine

2009-04-28T18:50:00.009-06:00

So, remember when we had that tropical heat-wave? Can you remember it? Think hard. It was gorgeous out and (more importantly) sizzling hot? I realize your memory may be literally clouded by the cloudy skies and hail we've had since then. So to help jog your memory (or stir up bitterness at Idaho's current weather), here are some pictures I could've sworn were taken last August:

Eric & Shelley enjoying the not-so-hot tub.

Gus & Gracie taking a dip in their pool.

Drying out on the sun-baked bricks.
(Gus, kindly remove your paw...)

Puppy Love

2009-04-19T22:16:00.004-06:00

There's not too much more to be said about these 2 little boys in my life:

Sunshine, green grass, a little boy, and his dog.
Gus loves Eric. And Eric loves Gus...when he's not stealing his toys.

Easter Festivities

2009-04-18T10:24:00.006-06:00

On Easter Sunday, we headed down to Shoshone Falls park and had a wonderful day in the sun! We met with some extended family, had lunch, threw some balls around, and had an awesome Easter egg hunt! Eric had a blast this year. Since understanding the concept, it was greatly anticipated!

He got a small, plastic set of golf clubs & balls in his Easter basket and loved them! And you should see the joy on his face when he gets the ball in the hole! ;)

Bittersweet

2009-04-01T23:44:00.005-06:00

Here's my handsome baby boy, looking very grown-up. His expressions are priceless, but they pull at my heart. How did he get so big so fast? No one asked me if that was ok...

Boise, Boy Do

2009-03-23T10:21:00.005-06:00

Last week, my younger siblings had Spring Break and decided to head to Boise to enjoy the time off. Eric and I joined them on Friday and met them at the Discovery Center. It was the first time for all of us and we had so much fun! Though, I must say, that place can be a bit overwhelming! There is so much to do and try! But the fact that all the science experiments are hands-on is terrific! It makes it very interesting to learn. (Why aren't all science classes taught here??)

The D.C. also had an entire room dedicated to a miniature grocery store. This was a dream come true for Eric. He loves that kind of stuff and kept telling me "Mommy, it's just my size!" The cash register scanners even beeped when he scanned the UPC codes. I was even fascinated by the whole setup. He could've spent hours in there with the tiny carts, empty boxes/bottles of real products and the fake money!

Right outside of the Discovery Center were flocks of geese and ducks. My mom grabbed a couple bags of corn chips out of the car and we quickly became popular! They were so fun to watch and be around. And it was incredible how bold some of the birds were (seagulls not included; they're just irritatingly forward). :)

Later Friday night, Eric and I had planned on returning home - mostly because Gracie was supposed to get her stitches out Saturday morning - but Levi was gracious enough to help me out with that, so we stayed! Eric had seen Chuck E. Cheese commercials and had begged me to go every time. So, this time I could actually say yes! The 2 of us headed over and had a blast! And there were hardly any people there (especially for a weekend!) We had our pick of games/rides and won tons of tickets and the best part of all...Eric got to meet the mouse himself! He could hardly contain his excitement! I was so thrilled everything worked out.

From China to My Flower Bed

2009-03-18T18:00:00.004-06:00

Me, being the impatient person that I am, could not wait for a break in the clouds and a rise in the temperatures. For about 4 days, I searched my house, our shed out back, and our storage unit for my beautiful and ever-blooming tulips. I couldn't find them until I borrowed our neighbor's ladder and made my way into the dark abyss known as the crawl-space. And it was totally worth it because I found them, just as pretty as I had left them! I was thrilled.
The compliments have already started coming in and you know, they make me smile every time I see them!
So, are they real? "Why yes! Really fake." :)

Allow Me to Introduce...Gus

2009-02-27T14:34:00.003-07:00

Valentine's Day brought more than candy and heart-shaped balloons to our house this year. Levi showed up with this little squirt in the middle of the afternoon, saying someone didn't have any money for a part but that their dog had unexpectedly gotten pregnant. The original owners lived in a camper trailer and couldn't afford much, let alone dog food for 3 dogs (mommy & 2 babies).
Levi got suckered into accepting the rollie-pollie and *POOF* we now have Gus.
He's been a fun addition. Gracie didn't know what to think of him at first, but they became fast friends and he gives her a run for her money. He also learned how to operate the doggie-door rather quickly, and I am very grateful for that!
One of the biggest hurdles I had to help him overcome was the fact that he would always have food. It became very clear to me that he thought every meal just might be his last. He would eat at the bowl of dog food until his stomach was stretched as far as it could go and he was barely able to walk or breathe! So, I had to give him little bowl-fuls at a time. He would also go nuts any time he smelled "people food" (which was what his diet consisted of at his previous home). He would claw at the cabinets and look and sniff around frantically.
Now, I am happy to state that I can leave a full bowl of dog food on the floor and he'll only bother with it when he's actually hungry. Yay!
Oh, and his face is even flatter than Gracie's, if you can believe that!

Feelin' Squirrel-ly

2009-02-27T14:20:00.003-07:00

We've made a new backyard friend recently. This brave little guy learned very quickly where he could find "the good stuff". We've affectionately named him Jimmy the Squirrel. Sounds a little "mafioso" but it works.
These pictures are a couple weeks old already. Now, there's no hesitation on his part. He will wait either up in the tree or right on the platform until I come out in the morning. He strains to see if he can spot the peanut I always have waiting for him in my fingers. He gently takes it and munches away as I pour the rest of the critter food on the wall.
It's so much fun for Eric to watch, but it just about kills Gracie. :) Teehee.

Another Hands On Experience

2009-02-13T09:36:00.003-07:00

Last Friday (the 6th), I took Eric to Hands On so we could spend some time being "productive".
It's in quotes because just because we produced something doesn't necessarily mean we accomplished anything. :)

Anyway, he painted a round coaster with turquoise and purple paint and had a blast. He really loves to paint. He had me help him paint his name on it when he was all done. (Though, he can write almost his whole name all by himself already! I'm very proud of him!)

I chose a light-switch cover and painted it in SpiderMan theme for Eric's room. The one that was still in there was a Classic Pooh one from when he was a baby. He was thrilled with how they both turned out and we had so much fun together!

Ready to Rock

2009-01-16T11:34:00.001-07:00

This is what I got Levi this Christmas:

No Pug Left Behind

2008-12-27T19:37:00.003-07:00

Any of you who know me, know that I just couldn't leave my Gracie without a present under the Christmas tree! As soon as I put it out, she couldn't stop sniffing and sniffing. She knew it was for her. I had gotten her a rawhide "turkey leg" wrapped in real chicken. It was 5-6 inches in length.
If you look closely, you can see two more very large ones on either side of her tail. Those were both a foot long and were for Roxie and Ryleigh. They were massive! I couldn't stop laughing while I watched them try to get their jaws around those things. It was a very merry Christmas for the dogs at our house!
Gracie was delightfully occupied while we opened the remaining gifts.

The day after Christmas, I painted my toenails and decided Gracie could use a pet-icure (alright, that one was painful), so...

TAG! I'm it!

2008-12-20T15:33:00.002-07:00

Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper, for sure! It's more fun to tear into a wrapped box!

Real tree or Artificial? Artificial. I love real trees and the way they smell, but my husband is a clean-aholic and would panic at the first sign of needle-loss! :)

When do you put up the tree? Oh dear, it varies widely from year to year, but this year we did great! We got it up shortly after Thanksgiving!

Do you like eggnog? I have to be in the mood and I usually have to "water" it down with milk. Though, the Viva Light Eggnog isn't too bad.

Favorite gift received as a child? I don't know if I ever had ONE favorite thing, but I do remember being so excited about a spring-powered "rocking" horse, a purple and blue ladybug toy that had a hidden little creature inside her wings and you had to open it with a key. I know there were tons more, but I'm having trouble remembering!

Easiest person to buy for? Eric or my littlest sister, Shelley. They are both very good about letting you know exactly what they want. :)

Hardest person to buy for? My husband and my dad. They usually just go get whatever it is they want or need, so it leaves my options a little depleted!

Do you have a nativity scene? No...mostly because the one I would love to have is a wee-bit pricey. It's the Willow Tree set and it's sooo beautiful!

Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail. I love receiving them, too!

Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Well, they weren't bad at all, but at the time I was not pleased...my parents got my sister and I a bunch of the same things only mine was all purple and her's were all pink. And I really wanted the pink stuff. :)

Favorite Christmas Movie? I don't see how you can have just one! I love A Christmas Story, The Grinch That Stole Christmas, Elf, The Toy That Saved Christmas, Polar Express...almost all of them 'cause they just get you in a festive mood!

When do you start shopping for Christmas? Well, ever since I had Eric, who's birthday is Dec. 1, I've started earlier than I used to. I get somethings for his birthday and some things for Christmas. I just have a hard time remembering what I got sometimes!

Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? I don't believe so. I did that once with a wedding gift, but I can't say I remember doing that with a Christmas gift.

Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Cookies, fudge, warm drinks, turkey, candy canes...the list goes on and on.

Lights on the tree? But of course: beautiful white lights!

Favorite Christmas song? Santa Baby, Light a Candle, Sleigh Ride, White Christmas...

Travel at Christmas or stay home? Well, we open our presents and do our Christmas-y things and then we "travel" 20 miles to my parents' house!

Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? I believe so!

Angel on the tree top or a star? Either, but there is a star on ours.

Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Stockings on Christmas Eve, presents on Christmas morning.

Most annoying thing about this time of year? I agree with Lacy: when people insist on calling it "X-mas" instead of CHRISTmas. And when people give just for the sake of giving, with no real heart or thought put into it. It can really suck the special-ness right out of this time of year! I also wish Santa wasn't on every channel! We don't get gifts because of Santa; we get/give gifts because the Lord gave us THE GREATEST GIFT OF ALL: HIS SON, JESUS!

Favorite ornament theme or color? Probably the ones on our tree: red, gold, & cream colors; large artificial poinsettas in those same colors are all over it with small matching balls.

Favorite time for Christmas dinner? Whenever everyone is together and ready for some fun fellowship around the table!

What do you want for Christmas this year? Hmmm...not too sure. Wouldn't mind a few tans from Sunsations to warm up! :)

*Now, it's your turn! I tag LoriAnn, Macey, Alycia, Julie, Amy, and Sarah!

Oh, The Weather Outside Is...DELIGHTFUL

2008-12-16T15:54:00.005-07:00

We awoke this morning to a glorious winter wonderland. And it hasn't stopped snowing all day. With the wind we've been having the last little while, I was expecting an arctic tundra, but it wasn't!
After lunch, I bundled up my 2 little ones (Eric & Gracie) and we made it our personal mission to destroy the pristine landscape we had woken up to. I had to embrace the mission simply due to the alternative: trying to keep a 3 yr. old little boy and a one year-old pug out of it. Yeah right.
And we were wildly successful with our destruction. The snow was deep enough to provide a pleasantly-fatiguing challenge for Eric and a hilarious obstacle for Gracie! Poor little thing thinks she's a Great Dane, but her 8 inch legs tell her otherwise.

Eric had a wonderful time falling down while receiving minor injuries, thanks to the cold cushion the Lord was providing for us! He got to make his first snow angel ever (and Gracie "decorated" it with tiny little footprints). We also got the fantastic experience of seeing the individual snowflakes land on our gloves! They were so beautiful! And they reminded me of Who-Ville! Gracie was less interested in each individual flake than she was in eating mouthfuls at a time.
After our mission was complete, I asked Eric if he wanted to eat some of the snow. His eyes got wide and offered an enthusiastic "Yeah!" So I filled a couple bowls with snow and sprinkled Tang over the top. Eric loved it and I hadn't had it for years, so it was really quite a treat. Shortly after, Gracie took her place by the heater vent and Eric went down for a nap.

Officially 3

2008-12-16T15:18:00.006-07:00

As I was preparing to write a different post, I realized I captured Eric's birthday party, but that I had forgotten his birthday morning.
As you can see from his hair, attire and sleepy face, this was immediately after he had gotten out of bed. I wished him a big "Happy Birthday!" and it clicked: "I can finally open those presents I saw earlier!"
So, I got him to sit still for a second and then let him have at them...

We both agreed he did pretty good. Turning 3 is easier than he thought...
Not so much for Mom, though.

Assignment: MOM

2008-12-08T13:04:00.002-07:00

What was fun about this one (besides it being for my parents) was the fact that my mom wasn't sure she even wanted to send Christmas cards...until she saw this. Like me, she had looked around at all the pre-made options, but none fit her needs. So, she told me which 3 pictures she wanted to use and let me take a shot at it.
My mom has a distinct style and I wanted it to come through in the cards. Apparently, I did a really great job. Thanks, Mom!

A Year-End Trip to the State of Denial

2008-12-03T21:03:00.009-07:00

Thanks to my brain's ability to conjur up crystal-clear pictures of an 8 lb. baby boy sleeping peacefully with a large pacifier in his pouty mouth, visually balanced by his little bottom pleasantly perched atop his (not so) tiny feet, I'm having an alarmingly difficult time embracing the fact that I now own a 3 year old. :) And I use the word "own" in the most loving way possible.
We just celebrated Eric's big day on the 1st with his very first birthday party. It was a raving success, if I do say so myself. He's actually had time to make friends and to anticipate his big day and understand it all, so we did it all!
I reserved Hop 2 It in the evening, ordered pizza and cake, and invited family and friends! We did the technicalities (pizza, cake, & presents) as quickly as possible so the kids could have maximum playing time and everyone was ok with that. It turned out to be almost 2 solid hours of non-stop bouncing, sliding, running, sprawling, and just plain goofing off!

Everyone's here!

The infamous cake!

Look at those 3-yr-old muscles!

Ball Pit...enough said. :)

He could go down this slide at 100 mph and it still wouldn't be fast enough!

The gifts from awesome friends & family!

P.S. Just a side note, but very note-worthy: Eric decided to get into the whole potty-training thing full-force about a month ago and is the proud owner of some very macho "big boy" underwear (which he is weaing in all the above shots). I'm so proud of him!

Wouldn't You Snow It?

2008-11-16T23:49:00.007-07:00

Last Sunday (the 9th), I was in the Hallmark store located in our mall. Dog-gone it if everything in there isn't cuter than cute. But I've gotta tell ya, one book in particular sucked me right in and I fell in love with it instantly. So, you can imagine my excitement when I found out it was part of a series! "You mean there's MORE?!"
It's a group of books about little towns of snow-people! At first, I was wary they were about Santa but he's nowhere to be found in these wonderful books! Just the cutest snow-people ever! And the icing on the cake: they rhyme! I am a sucker for a good poem and these stories just roll right off your tongue!
I bought the newest one, Snow Place Like Home and asked about the rest of the series. Unfortunately, Hallmark only carries the current book. So, naturally I scoured my next favorite shopping desination: ebay! And I found every single one (at awesome prices!)
I thought I'd share them with you in case you love this sort of thing, too (in no particular order):

The Snowbelly Family of Chillyville Inn

Snow What Fun

The Snow Must Go On!

Snow Happy to be Here!

Snow Place Like Home

'Leaf" Me Alone!

2008-11-06T11:22:00.005-07:00

The other day, I had resolved to attack the multiple layers of leaves in the back yard. And because Eric loves that sort of thing (raking, sweeping, vacuuming, etc.), I got us both bundled up and assigned us each a rake.
We were actually doing fairly well, considering Gracie and Ryleigh thought our pile was purely for their enjoyment! But as we kept raking and the pile kept growing, I just couldn't help it...

LEAF FIGHT!

My mom had actually arrived while we were raking, and we didn't know it. She had snapped some pictures and captured all the "action"! It was so much fun!

Halloween Hero

2008-11-06T11:03:00.005-07:00

Despite having seen him in it for the last month, I still thought Eric looked adorable in his SpiderMan suit. This was his first year trick-or-treating and he was so excited! And he did great--knocking, yelling "TRICK OR TREAT!" and saying "Thank you!" as he ran back to show me what he got!
We went with my mom and little sister, Shelley, who dressed up as Morticia.
After he had had his fill of going door-to-door, we went back home and had just as much fun handing out candy to the other trick-or-treaters!

Shelley & Eric in full get-up before heading out!

At our neighbor's house; Eric's a little used to going right on in!

I Guess I Should Accept It

2008-10-23T20:25:00.010-06:00

So, is everyone aware that Christmas is only 2 months away, or is my brain running to catch up? How did this happen? What's just as alarming is that Eric's 3rd birthday is just over a month away! I suddenly feel out of breath and panicked!

Well, ok, maybe that was a little dramatic, but you get the point! This "reality attack" was triggered by the fact that my mom purchased a gingerbread house kit and Eric and I decided to tackle it today. In all honesty, maybe I should be glad to be getting this out of the way early...

"Candy!"

Such detail and concentration.

Pretty darn good for my two-year-old's little hands!

Free Fall Fun

2008-10-13T21:14:00.008-06:00

Since the sun dared to show its face again after disappearing for a week, Eric and I thought we'd try to make the most of it! Even if the high was only in the 50s, it was like a tropical heat wave compared with the frigid weather we'd been experiencing only a few days ago (i.e. snow & wind).
Not far from our house is Kimberly Nurseries, a beautiful landscaping business that started their own Pumpkin Patch a few years ago. It has several activities including:

pumpkin photo-ops at every turn,

"who's that scarecrow?",

wagon rides to help tow your prize pumpkin (or mom),

rope-climb,

straw pyramid with attached slide & maze, and a small obstacle course.
As you will see below, Eric braved every part of it and did awesome!

And the best part is that it's all free of charge to anyone who wishes to enjoy it! The only thing they ask is that if you find the one pumpkin you can't live without, you pay for it. They are anywhere from $2 to $10. Not too bad, if you ask me!

Fall Update

2008-10-03T19:26:00.008-06:00

Eric and I have been having a great time watching and experiencing the transition of the seasons. Though neither of us are thrilled about the lower temperatures, the pumpkins, corn mazes and celebrations are right up our alley!

Wedding Bells in Boise

2008-09-27T15:40:00.005-06:00

They finally decided to do it!

Christian and LoriAnn (my sis) got married at the Boise courthouse September 19! The ceremony was wonderful. She even had an adorable white dress on and the perfect little bouquet! My mom and I surprised them with a small wedding cake and engraved toasting flutes for the reception to help mark their special day!

Christian & LoriAnn Gellert - September 19, 2008

Tumbling & the Toilet

2008-09-10T18:38:00.009-06:00

When the Olympics showcased this year, I noticed Eric's interest in the constant array of bodies flipping and flying across our TV screen. He even tried immitating them! I loved that--he saw something he liked and went for it! Anyway, the thought of getting him involved in a non-competitive program of tumbling and coordination hasn't left me since.

I was pleased when I saw a couple programs offered in the local TF Parks & Rec catalog that came out, but people kept telling me to give Magic Valley Gymnastics a shot. Though, there is a program called Little Tykes being offered for 3-4 yr. olds to introduce them to the wide world of sports. That's still on my list...

But I did finally call MVG and had a wonderful conversation with the lady on the other end. I got him signed up over the phone, got my questions answered, and was told where their new location is. Once I told Eric he was gonna get to go to "gymnastics school" in a few days, his eyes lit up! He's so excited and of course wanted to go immediately. We settled for a happy-medium of finding the place (mostly for my benefit, so I wouldn't be searching Monday morning. I'm usually late enough as it is.)

On a different note, we found his first Halloween costume yesterday at Target. They had literally just finished putting them out. Oh my...what a task for a 2 yr. old boy's mind. "Which superhero do I want to be more? Spiderman, Batman, Hulk, or Mr. Incredible?" Let me tell you, that was a tough decision!

Oh, and since I get asked this a lot, I'll clarify here: no, I did not go to the trouble of dressing up my too-young-to-understand-or-care son the first 2 Halloweens of his life. Saved myself some money and us both some frustration. Besides, October gets pretty chilly around here and you probably know by now, that's not my "forte".

Anyway, Spiderman won (of course) and despite being a size 4-6, it fits him very well. It's even reversible: regular Spiderman on one side, Venom, the black spider guy on the other. It was like Christmas for Eric! :) And that's what you'll find him wearing most of the day now!

For instance, today he came into the bathroom to talk to me as I was standing at the sink. He hopped up on the toilet, like usual, to sit and chat without realizing the lid was up. *Plop* Let's just say it wasn't one of Spiderman's most proud moments! Off came the suit with the soaking bottom. He was upset for a while, but I, on the other hand, had a good laugh and he did eventually see the humor in it.

YeeHaw!

2008-08-29T14:11:00.013-06:00

The Twin Falls County Fair & Rodeo has come roaring back into town for 2008! We try to make a point to catch at least one night of rodeo and several days of fair-food! The corn dogs, mini-donuts, elephant ears, raspberry lemonade, pitas...I could go on! It's great and ridiculously expensive, but I guess that's part of the fair.

Last night, Eric and I ventured out to the grounds to watch the first night of rodeo. We had some gigantic corn dogs, meandered around a little, then found a couple of seats in the grandstands. It was a good time, but he got a little restless, so we headed over to the animal barns! We had so much fun (after getting some mini-donuts, of course!)

That was one big loader!

The boy loves his mustard!

He rode T-Bone and did awesome!

The ponies were a hit--they were just his size!

This little piggie thought he smelled good!

We also visited the sheep and the rabbits and the alpacas! Shelley had her alpaca, Rocky, in the fair this year and she won 6 out of 7 first-place ribbons! The only one she didn't win was the Grand Champion, in which she received Reserve Grand Champion! We were so happy for her!

We're going back to the fair again today to brave the rides! The weather has been so spectacularly cool that it's enjoyable all day! And I'm really looking forward to it; this is the first year Eric will really be able to participate in the fair activites, instead of constantly being told "you're not big enough yet, honey". More pictures to come!

Underwear Goes Under There

2008-08-29T13:59:00.005-06:00

It's been kinda blowing my mind that Eric will be 3 this year. He's already started talking about going to school! I think what really freaks me out is the thought of what I will do when my little shadow is away from me for a few hours every day. It makes me sad! But I know he (and me, too!) will be so proud when he starts bringing home the stuff he accomplished that day.

Speaking of accomplishments, Eric now owns official "big boy" underwear. Meaning, if he pees in them, he--as well as everyone else--is fully aware of it. :) He's not in them all the time; we're still doing the Pull-Ups thing. But he really loves knowing he has them in his drawer. And so do I. It means he's making progress and that's a big deal for a little man at the ripe ol' age of 2!

Here he is with his awesome camo and dino briefs!

H2H BBQ

2008-08-24T16:10:00.008-06:00

My H2H (heart-to-heart) is my group of fabulous ladies--Tiffany, Shannon, Deana, Cathy, and myself. We started getting together officially just after the first of this year. I have loved it. We do lessons from women's study books, pray for each other, share tears and laughter (mostly that last one) and just have an incredible time together.

We try to get together for "fun-nights" regularly, to maintain the friendship outside of the study-group. We don't seem to have a very difficult time doing that. Last month we decided it was high-time we have a bbq and that it would be nice to include the men. So, it was decided: bbq, Aug. 23, men are invited, kids are not, bring chairs and a side-dish.

The day arrived and it couldn't have been more perfect. Wait...there were a couple tardy attendants, but otherwise it went off without a hitch. Levi manned the grill, Shannon brought chips & dip, Deana brought rolls & veggies, Cathy brought noodle salad, and Tiffany brought cheesecake & berries! They were all delicious.

We talked and laughed the night away--some of us sharing a little too much. But wonderful memories were made. Just a piece of advice: if you're ever in the pizza-delivering business, steer-clear of Crestview Drive!

PB&J All the Way...Across His Face

2008-08-19T09:31:00.003-06:00

Eric and I love to eat outside in our backyard! We have a wonderful patio with comfy chairs and a canopy, so we try to get out there as often as we can. (The stars were a fun-find from a store called Real-Deals.)

He was eating his peanut butter & jelly sandwich really well; by that I mean I didn't have to keep reminding him to eat it. And he was making headway right down the middle, giving himself a rather large purple smile.

I just had to take a picture of it. The whole scene just screams "SUMMERTIME!": being outside, with pb & j, overalls, bare feet, and a little blonde boy.

My Birthday at Galena Summit

2008-08-18T15:35:00.016-06:00

As my birthday was approaching, I approached Levi. I don't usually wait for him to ask what I want because it saves him from forgetting the day altogether! That, and I had already decided on what I wanted to spend the day doing quite some time before.

Horseback riding.

So darn it, we did it! I called a place I found on the internet, reserved 2 spots on the half-day trail ride, and next thing I know, I'm in one of the greenest places God ever created. And what made it even better was that I was viewing it from the back of a beautiful Mustang named Lola. How fabulous is that name?! And here she is:

We went through streams and over fallen logs and up the side of the mountain. Millions of purple wildflowers and orange butterflies on both sides of the trail. It was like something out of a calendar.

Me and Lola

Levi and Popeye

Beautiful moss along a tiny creek

We made it! Titus Lake is between 2 mountains.

Enjoying the scenery (and the break from the saddle!) Doesn't he look thrilled?!

On the way back down. Lola tried to eat the entire time!

I thought this sign was great.

We finished the day by hanging out in Ketchum. We ate a delicious Italian dinner at a place called Rico's and then watched Batman: The Dark Knight at a tiny theater! We had planned to spend the night, but there were no rooms. Not in Ketchum, Hailey OR Bellevue! So, we took our sore butts and drove all the way home! But it was so worth it!

On the Lake

2008-08-04T09:51:00.004-06:00

I just have to say that I am so excited to get into August. I have a bunch of FUN work coming my way and I canNOT wait for it! Baby shower invites, baby announcements, and just recently, more wedding invitations! I am in heaven! And all these things are for girlfriends of mine! How much better can work get??

Also, I couldn't believe this, and if you know Levi at all, you won't believe this either, but we actually took the jet skiis out yesterday! It was fabulous! We went down to Lower Salmon and met my parents and siblings with their boat! It was so much fun! Well, it was until Levi's jet ski pooped out! He stayed at the shore and tried to fix it while Eric and I took off on mine to go track down my folks and the boat. All was great until we all stopped and tried to get started again. This time, my ski wouldn't start and neither would the boat! Ack!

Finally, my dad fiddled with something in the engine compartment and got the boat going. Unfortunately, my ski was flat-lined. So, I got Eric on the boat with them and they threw me a rope. So, I did get to ride my jet ski back to the dock, but it was via boat-power. A little less cool, but fun anyway.

On the ride back, my mom opened the cooler and was passing out snacks. She counted to 3 and tossed me a KitKat. I didn't catch it but it landed near the front of my ski, so I was still able to grab it! It was great! Sunshine and chocolate! Yay!

Hit the Ground Running...and Spinning and...

2008-07-29T14:21:00.008-06:00

*Whew*

When I signed up for my membership at Gold's Gym, I promised myself I was gonna get my money's worth and get in shape and return to a state of flexability I had only known at 16 years of age. Well, both afore-mentioned goals have yet to come to fruition. BUT! I have been getting my butt in there and boy, does it feel good!

Strike that--it feels like torture at the time, but afterwards I feel like I can conquer the world! It absolutely puts me in a great mood! And I love that! What I also love is the fact that my little man is so brave that he says it's "ok" if I go exercise while he plays in the Kids Klub. It breaks my heart to walk out the door, but I know it's good for both of us--mommy needs the exercise and he gets experience with other kids.

-----------------------------------------

So, because I do graphics design, I just love finding new, exotic papers and unique design ideas and people who love the same kind of stuff I do! I found a fun blog & website for just that here. It was so fun to look at all the beautiful and original design work! It was very inspiring! I am constantly trying to expand my "look". I know I can get into a certain groove and stay there for a while without moving outward or upward, so finding stuff like this is great.

Also, while browsing around, I found a great little DIY (design it yourself) site for shirts and other fun trinkets here. You can make a baby onesie into a hilarious, sarcastic statement (I'm a sucker for those!) or you can even get shirts for your son's baseball team! Whatever you want! I made sample ones centered around certain phrases that I've said/experienced or have wanted to:

Anyway, I've been having fun. Summer's slowly slipping through my fingers so I'm trying to make the most of it! Hope you have too!

Summer Colors

2008-07-25T10:30:00.004-06:00

My work's been a little slower lately, so I've been a little antsy to design something really fun. I was looking for excuses to create something when I remembered the bbq my Heart-2-Heart group has planned for August! It was the perfect excuse!

After a little dinking around on my computer, this is the invitation I had come up with:

Nothing too fancy, just fun and colorful--exactly what I was in the mood for! I added small, pearl-colored brads to the middles of every other flower at the bottom, just to give it some dimension. They made me smile, so I'm hoping they have the same effect on their recipients!

-------------------------------------

Yesterday wasn't very busy, so Eric and I are both looking to get out of the house today. But some of the things that we did experience yesterday were:

The Blue Angels jets soaring over our house (*LOUD*)

A flattened crocodile sandbox because apparently puppies like to chew on it's feet! (It's inflatable...at least it WAS, anyway.)

A wonderful dinner with our neighbors

Picked up my ring from being sized -- thanks, honey!

A few good sales at the mall

How 8:30 at night is the perfect time for a walk (especially with a pug that gets overheated from running outside to go potty!)

That birds sometimes die...because of cats.

All in all, it wasn't an overly productive day, but it was a nice one!

What's In a Name?

2008-07-23T17:10:00.002-06:00

1. My Rockstar Name (first pet, current car):
Twitch Toyota

2. My Gangsta Name (favorite ice cream flavor, favorite shoe):
Coconut-Almond Heels

3. My Native American Name (favorite color, favorite animal):
Orange Dolphin

4. My Soap Opera Name (middle name, city where you were born):
Theresa Ontario

5. My Star Wars Name (first 3 letters of last name, first 2 of your first):
Thoja (sounds like I have a lisp!)

6. My Super Hero Name (second favorite color, favorite drink):
The Pink Margarita! (ha ha ha ha!)

7. My nascar Name (first names of your grandfathers):
Pete Pete (yes, they both have the same name!)

8. My Stripper Name (favorite perfume/cologne/scent, favorite candy):
Breathless Snickers (that's for sure!)

9. My TV weather anchor name (5th grade teacher, city that begins with same letter):
Tami Tampa

10. My Spy Name (favorite season/holiday, favorite flower):
Summer Rose

11. My cartoon name (favorite fruit, article of clothing you are wearing now):
Peach Skirt

12. My Hippie Name (what you ate for breakfast, favorite tree):
Granola Sequoia (how appropriate)

Unexpected Delivery

2008-07-21T10:26:00.003-06:00

Saturday evening, I got to bed much later than I wanted to. Eric and I had spent all day in Boise at Roaring Springs with my family and we were pooped! So, you can understand my less-than-enthusiastic reaction when Levi told me I had a surprise waiting for me in the backyard.

I didn't even have to go back there to know what it was. The day before, he had briefly told me about a litter of boxer pups being attacked by a coyote and all but one had been killed. For some uncomprehensible reason, he felt compelled to bring it to our home.

Now, don't get me wrong--I love animals and would really love to adopt every stickin' one of them out of the shelter, but Levi does not. He does not seem to understand why you can't have a dog that doesn't poop, shed, chew, bark, dig, or breathe for that matter. I tell him it's for the same reasons I can't find a husband like that either. It puts it in perspective, but only momentarily. My frustration, however, lasts a little longer.

I am willing to train and discipline because I want to be able to enjoy my puppy, so I know my invested time will be worth it. Levi absolutely cannot grasp this concept. In his head, dogs have common sense and do naughty things just to tick him off. I'm not joking; it is exasperating. Even more so, since he insists on bringing more animals to our home!

This is about the 3rd or 4th time he's "surprised" me with a dog. Gracie was one of those surprises as well. The other ones I've flat refused. I wouldn't even hold/pet them because that would just mean I'd have to say good-bye and that's not something I handle well.

I'm not sure why I didn't do that with this new puppy. Probably because it was already 11:30 at night when she was "given" to me. Part of me is happy to have her around--she and Gracie play and play and it's wonderful excercise/learning for them both. But I grimace when I think of all the friction our other pets have caused between Levi and I and it makes enjoying her a little more difficult. *sigh*

Anyway, I've named her Ryleigh. Here's some footage of her and Gracie "in action":

Never Ceases To Amaze Me

2008-07-18T11:08:00.003-06:00

I had every intention of writing this last night while the memories were still very fresh, but by the time 11:30 p.m. rolled around, it was very obvious that a coherent blog-post was not to be.

Anyway, yesterday Eric and I ventured out to Bass Lake again, this time with 3 of my friend's kids. We all had a great time splashing, goggling (is that a word?), boating, and going down the slide. Yes, even I sent myself slinging down the slippery surface in what I can only imagine was a blur of knees and elbows. But I loved it.

Well, Eric wanted to go down as well--he had been down it before and he loves that kind of stuff, as long as I catch him at the bottom. So, up the steps he went (the steps, though, are uncharacteristically steep, which was unnerving enough) with me close behind. Once he got to the top, I told him to sit down and wait for me to get to the bottom, like usual. He was almost seated, so I turned around and took a step away. I took one last look up at him, though I wasn't sure why at the moment. And doggone-it, if he hadn't just missed the seat and was falling backwards off the top of the slide. Everything slipped into slow-motion and I could feel my palm press into the back of his life-jacket as he continued downward. Hitting my hand made him roll to the right, so my left arm rolled right along with him and I swirled him into my body, under my neck and against my chest. The world felt like it was instantly in fast forward: kids were still running everywhere, the next kid took the opportunity to go down the slide, a lifeguard half-attempted a warning about Eric falling (that was tons of help), and I felt my heart pounding against Eric's life-jacket. I needed to sit.

We dangled our feet off the side of the dock for just a couple minutes before I realized that a two-year-old doesn't need to just sit there, remembering the terrifying experience, even if I was convinced I was on the edge of having a stroke. So, I happily hopped back into the water and started bouncing him around and splashing. And just like that, he forgot. I didn't ask him if he wanted to go on the slide again; I already knew the answer.

A little while after we returned home, I made dinner and Eric and I sat down to eat. I prayed first and thanked the Lord for allowing us to enjoy such a beautiful day and for keeping us safe. I also thanked Him for the food and for friends, etc. Well, then it was Eric's turn and he tried repeating everything I said, as best he could:
"Dear Lord, thanks for ... safe, and ... play in da water and ... nice day and ... milk and ... dinner and ... table and ..."

I could tell he was running out of steam, so I was preparing to break in with "in Jesus' name..." but before I could I heard...

"... and bye!" Apparently Eric had "hung-up" his spiritual cell phone conversation with God! I laughed so hard! It was the cutest thing. I leaned over and squished him in a hug and silently thanked the Lord for the wonderful blessing he had put in my life, named Eric.

An Idaho Safari

2008-07-12T10:54:00.014-06:00

Every year, I try to make it to Boise to take Eric to the Zoo, and this year we made it up there on July 10!

It was pretty warm and several of the animals were hidden away in their shaded hideaways, but we still had a lot of fun!

I mean, how could you not have fun when you've got a safari Jeep like this one to tour the Zoo in?!

The zebra poked his head out to say hello!

We think the snow leopard might have been happier with some...well...snow.

The tigers walked right in front of us! We couldn't believe how big they were!

This picture says it all: it was hot! Everyone was sprawling out, including the enormous tortoise!

Eric had fun exploring in a turtle shell! Though we weren't exactly sure which end was which.

The komodo dragon was quite something! Though, we were far more amused with him than he was with us!

I think this was Eric's most favorite part of the whole Zoo! In the cage above the slide were monkeys. We were the only ones at the slide for a long time, so he just went down over and over again, while I enjoyed the shade!

We saw so many other things and neat animals: penguins, porcupines, meerkats, etc. and took way too many pictures to put here! We sure had a good time, though!

We finished off the day by hitting the outlet stores on our way out of Boise and I took advantage of their summer clearance stuff. I bought all big stuff for Eric to wear next summer.

Good fun and good deals makes for one really good day!

Fraud and Floaties

2008-05-14T09:05:00.007-06:00

Tuesday started off by being quite a whirlwind day. I felt like I had so much to do before we leave for Florida and I had a few jobs for J Designs that needed to be done as well. In between errands, I ran my car through a car wash and was outside of the adjoining gas station drying it off. A lady approached me and I could tell, for whatever reason, her life had been a rough one. I later assumed it was self-inflicted...

She asked me if I had money to spare for her to buy gas to help get her to SLC because she had been in an accident and that's where all her money had gone. I was wary, but looked through my purse anyway; I knew I had something I could give her, even if it was a Tic-Tac. But before I handed anything to her, I prayed the same prayer I pray every time I'm in a situation like that: "Lord, only You know this person's actual situation. If I give her some money, please let it go for good and helpful reasons and not to something that will only eventually make her life harder. In Jesus' name, Amen."

So, I handed her some money, she thanked me, and walked into the gas station. A minute later, she walked passed me again, avoided making eye contact with me and muttered another "Thanks". I assumed she was on her way to the pump when I turned around to make sure she was getting gas.

She was gone. Her car was gone. And my money was gone.

I ran in to ask the cashier if the lady with "big hair" had purchased gas. "No, she just walked in, turned around, and walked right back out."

I felt like a bigger sucker than the huge lollipops I was standing next to by the counter.

Someone had pulled her car up, waited for her to exit the station and raced out of there.

All the warm and fuzzy feelings I had for helping out someone less fortunate than myself were instantly swallowed by the grumbling black cloud that had taken residence in the pit of my stomach. I was mad. Really mad.

So, after going home and finishing some laundry (with some assistance from my "Big Helper"), I decided I need to do something to burn off my "angry-energy".

So, Eric and I hit the YMCA pool and had a blast.
We were the only ones there for a little while, but the other kids started trickling in.

He had a lot of fun with those "noodle" things and went on the slide--even after he plunked all the way under the water!

He and I had fun in the little "kiddie" pool. I really liked it 'cause it was the warmest one there! We were supposed to be giving each other kisses, but we were both laughing.

I love this picture, but Eric looks like such a big boy here, it kinda makes me sad. The last 2.5 years have flown faster than words can describe. How does that happen?? :) He's my bestest-buddy and I live for pictures like this...even if they do make me kinda sad.

We leave for Florida tomorrow and I should come back with lots more pictures to share! I can't wait!

Marriage - Minnesota Style

2008-05-06T18:35:00.009-06:00

So I'm finally back from my little excursion to the Mid-West visiting my best friend, Janelle, because she was getting married on May 3rd! I went over there a few days before and helped do preparations for her big day. It was so much fun! Every day was quite full and busy, but it was for such a fun reason!

She looked absolutely beautiful and we had a blast. The ceremony and reception went perfectly (with the exception of a handful of wedding crashers; people actually do that?!) Anyway, here are a few pics from her big day.

This is Janelle and her then-fiance Steve. We went out a few nights before the wedding and just hung out and burned off some steam.

This is the wedding cake. The topper was bride and groom bobble-heads! It was hilarious and very fitting.

The bride and groom all dressed and ready! Her dress was beautiful! It had gorgeous detailing gathered at her left side with tons of sparkling beads! And there were satin buttons and more beads going all the way down her back and train.

The bride and her maid of honor -- ME! We had so much fun! I am so happy for her! I love you, Sunshine!

Janelle and Steve's rings. They did really well for each other.

Fell Into a Waterfall

2008-04-27T20:27:00.007-06:00

Ok, so none of us actually fell into the waterfall, but Eric did plop down onto a muddy rock after Gracie knocked him off balance. :)

Today was a wonderfully full day--full parks, full rivers, full boats, full tummies, full-on sunshine! Oh yes, today was good. You see, the sun and I have this agreement: it comes out, I come out. (Contracts are still be drawn up for wind and snow.) And boy oh boy, we were both out in full-force!

We decided to trek down to Shoshone Falls today on a hunt for a large, grassy area where the dogs wouldn't have to be on a leash the entire time. Much to our amazement, the first spot we found was perfect--grassy, huge, and most importantly, unpopulated!

As you can see in the pictures below, a little waterfall and creek was running through our section of the park and we couldn't get enough! This picture of the mini-falls almost looks erie or edited with the vibrant greens cutting their way through the dead grays of the surrounding bushes and trees. It was obvious the moss and algae were loving the delicate mixture of sun and water (H2-oh so good!) as much as we were.

Eric broke out the shovel and had a ball "diggin'". It's his favorite thing to do these days. I have full confidence one of our next purchases will involve sand and a large box. I love that he loves being outside, too; as you can see, a little sun on my blonde little boy wouldn't hurt. :) At least he's easy to see...

Levi got our "big girls" in the water for a big drink and some fun. Roxie and Jewels loved exploring the new terrain, especially with our section of the park being home to a large rock-chuck colony (maybe that's why it was deserted...?)

My little man and I just dinked around together, digging here and there, discovering moss, discovering that it's "yucky" just as quickly, and of course, posing for a photo-op (for my sake). I'm so thankful he humors me, even if it does look like he's just spotting his next "construction" site.

When we finally returned home, after a very necessary pit-stop at Cold Stone Creamery (to those of you who don't know what that is, it's a very healthy restaurant...kinda. Ok, not at all; it's ice cream), we rolled out the "big chalk" and attacked the driveway again. There is now a hopscotch, a couple scribbles across Spongebob's face, and 3 body outlines. Don't worry, we gave them "happy faces".

That About Sums It Up

2008-04-26T20:18:00.003-06:00

My "baby girl", Gracie, is with me wherever I go. Literally. Two steps to the left, there she is; spontaneously bust out the Chicken Dance, there she is, trying to figure out what the heck I'm doing! I love her and love having her in my life. She's great company when the house is quiet.

Since her days mostly reflect my own, you can probably get a good sense of how I was feeling before I snapped this shot.

Fun in the Sun

2008-04-26T19:19:00.010-06:00

After I managed to get the rest of the wedding invitations I'm designing done, Eric and I tried to spend some quality time outside with our sidewalk! After going for a walk around the block, we headed into the garage, ready to create.

I opened our big box o' chalk and this is what spilled out...

Ready, Aim...

2008-04-22T17:39:00.005-06:00

I'm almost entirely convinced that God gets bored every now and then and decides to stir things up. I'm also convinced His topic of choice is watching us--his sub-perfect creations--scramble when we realize how much time we don't have. Not enough time to finish that paperwork, wash the dog, cook dinner, plan a vacation, scrapbook, etc.

I can see His almighty finger casually push the "big hand" of our clocks ahead an hour and then laugh uproarously as our eyes bulge out of our heads. An hour is merely 60 minutes in the limitless grandeur that is eternity, but to us--we who live from hour to hour--it's 60 minutes that will effect the next 60 minutes, that will effect the next 60 minutes, etc. And so goes our day. And almost invariably, part of every 60 minutes includes traveling to the place we will spend our next hour, and when even one hour is taken from us, it can throw everything off because then you are late. Then you are on loan from the present 60 minutes.

And I've found there's only one single place on earth that can reset it--your bed. Once your brain and body disconnect, the only thing that matters is how many hours they can manage to stay that way. Though, it seems some people are able to be awake and still be in this state of disconnection. And those same people are of no help to us as we try to manage our 60-minute blocks of time because they're the ones holding up traffic or gossiping by the water-cooler or putting 17 things at the 10-items-or-less counter or trying to make the earth-shattering decision of whether or not they want whipped cream on their latte.

Ack. Is there no way out?

This post kinda got me by surprise. I was flipping through my mental calendar, realized I've got a lot to do and not much time to do it, and this came out.

For those of you wondering: no, I'm not on any medication (legal or otherwise), and yes, maybe I should be. If it was strong enough, at least then I could imagine myself getting the jerk in the car, the priss by the cooler, the fool at the checkout, and the loser with the latte all within range of my eye-lasers.

Yes, eye-lasers; different medication, different weapons.

And as soon as the present 60-minutes are up.....ZAPPO!

Don't laugh, because the next time you decide to take some of my time because you didn't use enough of your own trying to find--and wait for--the absolute closest parking spot, just know that somewhere, I've locked on and am ready to open fire...in

3...

2...

The Extinct Classiness of Swimsuits (and the Women Who Wear Them)

2008-04-20T22:39:00.007-06:00

On my quest to find the perfect swim-suit, I realized I'm living a parallel life to the brides I mentioned before...different destination, same journey.
As they browse the tall racks that overflow with satin, beadwork, and tulle, I'm directly across from them trying to figure out where this bikini string ends and the other begins.

I'm also met with another common hurdle--dissatisfaction. There's not one triangle of fabric that I feel I "must own"; the ones that are kinda cute aren't in my size; the ones that are in my size aren't cute; the ones I know everyone's going to be wearing; the obvious ones that no one will be wearing; etc. So, that leads me to an equally obvious solution: my less-than-victorious swim-suit experience absolutely must be counter-balanced by an overwhelmingly-successful shoe-shopping experience. Am I looking for justification for buying yet another pair of shoes? Maybe. But my frustration is real.

Since I became a mom, things have changed, and I'm not just talking the location of my female parts. My outlook on...well...myself, for one. Because I have a "young" look to me, I get my share of pitied looks and older women scouring my hands for their "sign of acceptance" (a.k.a. my wedding ring), like they need the comfort of knowing I didn't bail out on my future by living promiscuisly (sp?). But that's the last of my concerns.

My main concern is that I don't want to look "young & pitiful" to my son when he's older and somehow gets the urge to go through the immaculate scrapbooks I've put together of all our perfect outings. *Whoa...I better knock that off or I'm going to spiral into depression due to the ridiculousness of that statement.*

But you get the idea. I want to be his mom. Not some young woman who still dresses like she's 17 because she thinks she can get away with it. I look upon women who do that with disgust and pity because they're not fooling anyone, and if nothing else, are sending out the wrong message.
I intend on embarrassing my son a-plenty when age and situation call for it, but it will not be because his friends can't get over my has-been butt-cheeks hanging out the back of my pair of Daisy Duke's that my friend's sister's 14-yr-old daughter can't wear to school anymore because they're inapproprate. Oh no no no...there will be the usual naked toddler pictures, kisses good-bye in front of his friends, packing clean underwear, and "pee-pee" stories. All harmless; far less damaging than the sight of Mom in a tube top, ponytail, and shorty-shorts dropping off his sack-lunch while everyone wonders if she's his (much) older sister who they graciously assume has mental handicaps. Awkward.

Oh no...I've decided it would be in everyone's best interest if we left the embarrassing "visual-aids" to his dad. I'm glad everyone's in agreement.
P.S. It would be great if you didn't mention that last part to my husband. He knows nothing about it, yet doesn't seem to have a problem with it as he continually "plays along".

Wedding Season Open

2008-04-19T16:37:00.004-06:00

As I'm sitting here with half a cheesecake delightfully disappearing one bite at a time, it occurs to me how glad I am I'm not getting married...again, anyway. I have been working with brides who are hell-bent on fitting into that 3-sizes-too-small, far-more-expensive-than-budgeted, wear-it-all-year-if-I-have-to gown. The ones that actually fit are never acceptable. That would be too easy, and heaven forbid any part of the wedding-planning process be less than matrimonial calculus (which, by the way, has been the only time EVER that I have ever found math that excessive to be necessary).

I've been doing a lot of wedding invitation designing these days and love it. It just boggles my mind how a few pieces of paper can create such anxiety and trepidation in one woman, i.e. "how should we address them?" "should we offer hotel information?" "do you think they need directions?" "what if they don't like my colors?" "we don't really like them, but if we don't invite them then they'll know we don't like them"...etc. It becomes comical after a period of time, to me. With every new bride comes the same look of horror, earnestly searching for the Dahli Lama of Wedding Etiquette and Appropriateness, when they realize all she has to fall back on is the latest wedding trends Hollywood is pumping out and her opinionated, over-medicated Aunt Pearl who can't seem to avoid "passively" mentioning how nice it would have been to see her marry her pastor's son.

*Sigh!* On a day that is supposed to be about one man and one woman, why is it that anyone capable of speaking feels the need to do so?

I'll just do everyone a favor and design in silence...assisted by a mouthful of cheesecake.