Life is...

Thriller

2011-11-06T20:51:00.000-08:00

And for your viewing pleasure....

This is what I taught the week of Halloween in all my Dance/PE classes....

video courtesy of Period 4 :)

Halloween

2011-11-06T20:36:00.000-08:00

So if you care to find me

Look to the western sky!

As someone told me lately:

"Ev'ryone deserves the chance to fly!"

And if I'm flying solo

At least I'm flying free

To those who'd ground me

Take a message back from me

Tell them how I am

Defying gravity

I'm flying high

Defying gravity

And soon I'll match them in renown

And nobody in all of Oz

No Wizard that there is or was

Is ever gonna bring me down!

Just Dance

2011-10-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

So, today in my classes I had the kids follow along with this workout video...

first off, this is completely abnormal, but my foot has been bothering me lots lately and I needed to keep the kids moving, without putting too much pressure on my foot, as I don't want to have to wear that oh so attractive black boot I had to sport a few weeks back...i digress

So, one of my co-workers had brought the Julianne Hough "Just Dance" video in and I knew it would be the perfect exercise video to show...well, let me tell you...that Julianne has one AMAZING body!! Whew!

I followed along with my kids and not only was this video totally fun...we were all sweating by the end!! It was a great workout and Julianne is just too cute for words! And, have I mentioned her amazing figure? Holy moley!!

You think if I did it everyday I would look like her??

Ya, I didn't think so either :/

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-10-20T21:08:00.000-07:00

Yay!! I finally am back to participating in my favorite linky party!! I just love seeing what everyone out in blog land is wearing and getting ideas for new styles!! So fun!!

So, this past weekend, Tim and I were invited to dinner with his parents to celebrate both Tim and his mom's birthdays!

(Tim's Parents)

They took us to the beautiful Mission Inn located in downtown Riverside and we spent the evening enjoying a fabulous meal at the steakhouse. Absolutely WON.DER.FUL!!!

Of course the best part was dressing up!!

Dress: Foreign Exchange

Shoes: Oh Lord, so old, I don't even remember!!

Belt: Forever 21

Purse: Gift

I first fell in love with this dress when my good friend Amanda wore it to a event we went to. I had every intention of borrowing it from her for our last trip to Vegas, but never got the chance to go and pick it up. So while aimlessly walking the mall last week I mosied on in to Foreign Exchange and found the dress on the 50% off rack!!! WhaT?!? Can we say, AWESOME!! I paid only $15.00!! And I LoVE it!!

While I was bugging Tim to take pictures of me, I had some random people ask to have their pictures taken as well...so, what the heck, since I don't know who they are, maybe one of you in blog land will....

Random men wanting picture taken

Random woman taking picture with me

us just being silly :)

Linking up:

Pan Am

2011-10-15T11:09:00.000-07:00

Is anyone else watching this show??

I've had the season pass set up on my recorder long before the Pilot aired, but I finally have had the time to sit down and catch up on it....and, I LOVE IT!!

I have to say, my biggest fear in the world is flying (which, let me first say, I have a lot of fears...everything and I mean EVERYTHING scares me...but flying, ugh, I hate to do it!! Needing a stiff drink and medication, hate to do it! I think it's a lack of control thing...hello type A personality...I digress)

However, I love this show. I love the era, the characters, the costumes, the hairstyles...I love it all!

Anyone else watching it?

Shrek the Musical

2011-10-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

Tuesday evening of this week I went to see Shrek the Musical at the Orange County Performing Arts Center.

My mom and aunt have had season tickets to the Broadway series for the last 20 years and I have always wanted to be a season ticket holder as well. It finally happened, my mom got me a season ticket for the series for my birthday last year and this was the first show of the new season.

Well, let's just say it did NOT disappoint!! It was so awesome! The characters were funny, cute and sang fabulously...such a great show! I highly recommend it, two thumbs up all the way...and totally kid friendly!! Check it out if you ever get the chance!

Small Business Month!!!

2011-10-11T18:41:00.000-07:00

I am BEYOND delighted to share in Nicole over at Three's 4 Me, Small Business Month blog series! She has been spending the month of October discussing the in's and out's of having and running a (successful!) small business.

That's Nicole and her family...too cute!!!

Not only is she providing a massive AhhhMAZING giveaway (3 days of it!!!), she is also having 'heavy hitters' in the small business arena post some Q & A's, that touch on the exhilaration of setting up shop and 'just going for it', the fears that come with setting up shop and 'just going for it' as well as just taking the time to encourage and support by giving the best advice for all us newbies who are just starting out in this world of small business'!

So, why am I so delighted?, other than the fact that I truly love, love, love Nicole (as I was her dance teacher all through her junior high and high school years, so I've literally had the pleasure of watching this girl grow into the amazing woman and mom she is today....I'm not the least bit surprised though as it must be said, Nicole is as fabulous on the inside as she is on the outside. Her enthusiasm that comes across in her blog posts is how she is in everyday life. She has a smile that is contagious and she is truly a beautiful person...I was always blessed to have her as a student and I feel even more so as I get to now call her a friend)....I digress

Back to my excitement!...she has asked me to be a part of her HUGE, MASSIVE giveaway!! Ah! I am new to the small business world and I would love more than anything to sell my creations and have a following who reads my blog as much as I read those I follow (which my google reader shows I have 776 unread posts...not because I haven't been on it...that's because I follow hundreds of blogs!!! I know, I'm obsessed!!) as well as supports my Etsy shop of home-made goods, while showcasing at various craftshows...well, you know what I mean? Right?

Anyway...please, head on over to Nicole's blog...she is too cute for words and her month long series is really inspiring. Even if you don't have a small business, the words and encouragement from fellow bloggers is really awesome! I love when you feel lifted and supported from peers! It really gives you a sense of unity and accomplishment...so go on, and check it out!

While you are there, enter the giveaways and check out the other girls who are featured!! I am lucky to share space with such amazing women and I know you will love them as much as me!!!

Support the cause...buy homemade!! from me :)

Frozen Fury 2011

2011-10-11T18:10:00.000-07:00

For the past 3 Octobers, Tim and I have snuck (is that a word?) away, played a little hookie from work and responsible life things, to enjoy a couple of relaxing and super fun days in Las Vegas!

It's a getaway that is just for us, because, well...we deserve it! ;)

We also go each year because our beloved LA Kings play in a pre-season exhibition game called Frozen Fury at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. And let me tell you...it is fuuuuunnn!!! (Even though the boys stunk this year and lost 4-1....wth!!)

2009

2010

2011

Of course the game only takes place on one day, in the evening, but we try and stay for a few days just to unwind and enjoy each other. Which we took full advantage of. Chilled in an innertube and made our way around the lazy river all day Sunday, Monday we walked around Planet Hollywood shops, got caught in a freak thunderstorm, had dinner at the New York New York Gallaghers steakhouse (AHMAZING!!!!!) and made our way back to reality and home on Tuesday late morning.

(ok, this was our view from our hotel room!! We stayed on the 33rd floor (i die!) of the MGM Signature...it was beautiful, albeit scary as heck!)

It was a fabulous weekend and I CANNOT wait to do it all again next year!!

It's Good To Be 87!

2011-10-11T17:50:00.000-07:00

A Great Day to celebrate a Great Man!!

My Grandad turned 87 on Sept 25th and my parents, aunt and Tim and I enjoyed an afternoon brunch celebrating him! I feel very blessed to be 32 years old and have my Grandad in my life. He is an amazing man, wonderful parent and the best Grandad a girl could ask for. Love, love, love him!!

Award Luncheon

2011-10-11T17:43:00.000-07:00

Just over two weeks ago, my Mother in Law was presented an award for her contributions and charity work over the years in the City of Riverside and surrounding areas (kind of like the key to the city, but it's just a plaque).

MIL on the right

The day was such a huge honor and Tim and I were excited to be able to join the celebration luncheon.

It was really special hearing all her close friends stand up and share the different charity work Pat has been involved with over the years. She has been non-stop for the last 15 years, and it is beyond inspiring.

Me, MIL, FIL, Tim

A very special day indeed!

Hangnails Stink!

2011-09-28T20:07:00.000-07:00

The weather lately has made my cuticles so incredibly dry, I have hangnails on almost every finger.

Although I keep my hands moisturized and the cuticles trimmed, I still am getting them constantly....ugh!!

Anyone have any great solutions to keep them at bay??

Busy Week

2011-09-24T11:00:00.000-07:00

This past week has been insane!!!

Let's see....work, school, dance, cheer (the usual weekly things). Then, throw in hubby's birthday (middle of the week, pizza night, we will celebrate next weekend when we are in Vegas!!). Now, add in a drama-filled event that includes cheerleaders showing up to practice drunk (yes, I am serious!!!) as well as finding out about a planned party for a 14 year old which includes plans for underage drinking (where are the parents?!?!?!) I did not sign up for this part as the new cheer coach!!! Agh! So not ok! Ending the week with school suspensions (and removal from cheer!) but on a high note the Varsity football team winning the game in the last minute against a team that is in a league higher than us (such a great nail-biting game!). We are now 4-0 baby!!!.

= One very tired girl!!

Of course, I didn't take very many pictures this week...and I missed my favorite day, What I Wore Wednesday :(

But I did get one of Tim showing off all his birthday gifts:

Ya, can you tell he's a Kings fan?? And, no that is not a murse...it is a Kings lunchbag....LOL

And then I got a picture of the big sign my dance team made Tim for his birthday...

My dancers call me Momma Wills (actually, most of the school does), so it's only natural that when they refer to Mr. Wills, they call him Papa Wills. It's actually pretty cute.

Tim was very surprised by the gesture of the dance team and thought it was "so cool". I love that!

And lastly, just because I love my DANCE TEAM more than life...I have to share a pic of them taken after our last rally...where they killed it :)

We Got The Wheel!!!!

2011-09-17T09:21:00.000-07:00

They tried to take us down by destructing our school....but they couldn't bring it where it mattered!!!

32-6!!! Los Altos CONQUERORS WIN THE WHEEL!!!!

That may have been the most exciting game ever, but the defeat was the most rewarding part. Our team brought everything to the field and best of all, our Los Altos students stayed Classy!

It was awesome!!

picture source

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-09-14T20:36:00.000-07:00

I had every intention of capturing my weekly college promotion gear (today I promoted USC!) but when I got to school this morning, it was completely non-stop**...all day!! (I was waiting to take my pic at school because the hubby is out of town and I haven't taught Dunzo to use the camera yet :)

Ok, but on to What I Wore...before the hubby left out of town (5 days...it's been horrible!) we went on a date night...

Cardigan: Nordstrom

Tank: Nordstrom

Jeans: Miss Me

Sandals: Diane's Swimwear

Watch: Fossil

**So, just a quick recap of what started the day out to be so hectic...remember in my last post I talked about the big rival, across town, football game that we will be having this Friday? Ya, well, the rivals came on to our campus late last night and vandalized and defaced our entire school!! It was horrible!! They spray painted everywhere! Trashcans, walls, doors, windows...you name it, it was painted (and horrible things...nasty!)! The worst part, they tagged up a couple of murals that we have on some walls. Murals that our students spent days, weeks, creating and painting. Their beautiful artwork and hard work was ruined by a few dozen punks who will probably never get caught and face any consequences for their actions. Ugh, it just makes me so angry thinking about it! Come on people, it's a game!!! Sure, I'm all about some fun pranks, but vandalism is just beyond! Yuck....

Back to School Rally

2011-09-13T20:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we celebrated our Back to School Rally. This is the only rally that we have outside of the gym and it's just a great kick-off for the school year.

We have motivational speakers to pump up the kids and we celebrate the incoming Freshman class, the Graduating Senior class and then we get the students excited for our rival football game that will take place at the end of this week. Let's just say it revolves around a wheel, and well, we need to win it back this Friday :)

Needless to say, it's a ton of fun!

Both my Cheer and Dance Team's are asked to perform at the rallies and I just had to share! I am so so so proud of both of these teams, I can hardly contain myself! They work really hard, and are just a complete pleasure to teach.

Dance Team:

Cheer Team:

I know I may be biased...but I'm just throwing it out there....1st place at Nationals for both teams? I think yes!

Weather

2011-09-13T19:58:00.000-07:00

We are finally getting a little relief from the major heat we have had the last couple of weeks. Thank goodness!!

As much as I LOVE the heat, I do not like it as the cheer coach!! Sitting on the dusty sidelines for Freshman and JV Football games with the sun baking you, and no breeze cooling you off...well, it just stinks!! (Even when the teams win! 40-0 for our Freshman team last week!!)

But, last Saturday was by far the weirdest weather ever! We woke up to cloudy skies and in the distance thunder. Completely rare in So. Cal.

Keep in mind it was over 100 degrees every day the previous week, so waking up to gray skies and thunder was just, well, weird.

At about 10am, the strangest thing happened...a complete HAIL storm! In So Cal...in AUGUST!! What the heck???

Hail the size of golf balls!! And by 3pm, sunny skies and warm weather!

What is going on?? Beeezare!

Fierce

2011-09-07T18:16:00.000-07:00

Sorry, call me a proud Coach, but how awesome are my cheer girls??

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-09-07T18:08:00.000-07:00

I have to say, I think I look forward to Wednesday's so much more ever since I started participating in The Pleated Poppy, What I Wore series!

Since every Wednesday is college day (promote college by wearing college gear) at my school, I decided to also take some pics of what I wore over the Labor Day weekend (just in case people thought I only ever wore sweats and college gear)

So, here is what I wore today: (taken with phone camera...sorry for the terrible picture quality!)

Gators Top: Forever 21 (I swear it isn't the only place I shop)

Pants: Um...seriously, have had these since high school...wet seal

Sports Bra: Target

Tank: Nordstrom

Shoes: Left- Toms; Right- c/o Dr. Hack (yep, that's my Orthopedics's name!!)

Saturday night- Date Night!!

Guitar Tank: Big & Free

Tank: Express

Jeans: Miss Me

Shoes: Steve Madden

Sunday- Pool Party

Romper: Nordstrom

Monday- Huntington Beach for dinner with Tim and my Parents

Top: Forever 21

Cardigan: Anthropologie

Jeans: Joe's

Shoes: Toms

Hair Accessory: Brandy Melville

Necklace: H & M

Watch: Fossil

Ring: Nordstrom

Linking up to one of my faves:

Q & A

2011-09-05T11:19:00.000-07:00

Let's get to know each other...play along with me!

MAKEUP

Blush or bronzer? Bronzer…I use it as a blush and then to highlight areas around my face…it’s the only time I look like the sun actually touched my uber white skin :/

Lipgloss or lipstick? “My Lipgloss is cool, my Lipgloss be poppin”- Lil Mama

Eyeliner or mascara? Can’t.Live.Without.Mascara!! it’s my go-to….Lancome or Too Faced

Foundation or concealer? Mac StudioFix Powder- da bomb!

Neutral or colored eye shadow? Depends on my mood and where I am going/how much time I have.

Pressed or loose eye shadow? Pressed

Brushes or sponges? Brushes…have so many, different brands. Love my brushes!

NAILS

OPI or China Glaze? Don’t care what kind of polish…I pick based on color. Right now I’m loving the natural gel nails.

Long or short? Short. Wish I could grow mine naturally long, but no matter how many Hair, Skin and Nail vitamins I consume, my nails remain short :/

Acrylic or natural? I had acryics from the time I was 16 till 30…way too long and way too expensive! I love not having to go to the salon every 2 weeks for a fill…however I do LOVE going every so often for a pedicure!

Brights or darks? I tend to follow the trends of the season…right now I’m still loving all the bright summer colors…but come Fall and the changes in weather, I’ll be ready for the darker tones.

Flower or no flower? No flower ever!

BODY

Perfume or body splash? Perfume…my go-to scent is Beautiful by Estee Lauder. I’ve been wearing that since I was 10 and it’s still my favorite!

Lotion or body butter? Both however I wish I was more diligent in using lotion when I get out of the shower. My skin tends to be dry but I hardly ever think to put it on.

Body wash or soap? Both. I’m kinda crazy in regards to my shower habits. I first shampoo, then wash my face with a face bar soap. Rinse the shampoo, wash face with a face wash cleanser/scrub. Condition hair, then soap up with bar soap (Lever 2000), follow that with Body Wash, rinse off body, rinse out conditioner. It’s such a routine…I like to be really clean ☺

Bath company? Well of course I love me some Bath and Body works…but right now I am using some awesome bath products that I came across on my Lake Tahoe vacation.

FASHION

Jeans or sweat pants? Both…I work in dance wear (sweats, tank tops, loose fitting clothing) but I also love wearing my jeans when I can.

Flip flops or sandals? Flip flops.

Scarves or hats? Hats!! I wish we could wear hats at my school, but it’s not part of dress code, even for teachers! I would wear one every.single.day. if I could.

Studs or dangly earrings? OMG, my hubby loves earrings! He is always reminding me to go put them on. I have like a million pairs too, but I always forget that step in the getting ready process. It doesn’t matter what size they are…as long as I remember to actually wear them!

Necklaces or bracelets? Both!

Heels or flats? Flats (tennis shoes) for work, Heels anytime else ☺

Cowboy boots or riding boots? Cowboy boots…got a pair 2 years ago and I love them!! They are so stinkin’ cute!

Jacket or hoodie? Depends where I’m headed. Work, probably a hoodie that matches my sweats. Going out, jacket…but only if it goes with my outfit…otherwise I’ll chose to freeze. Fashion over comfort friends!!

Forever 21 or Charlotte Russe? Forever 21! Love that store…just have to find things that are age appropriate. It’s all about pairing an inexpensive item with something of more substance. I don’t want to look like one of my high school students!

Abercrombie or Hollister? Not for me…You smell like that store for days just walking past it at the mall!

Saks 5th Avenue or Nordstrom? Hello! Nordstrom of course!!

HAIR

Curly or straight? Both…I love that with my new cut I can go crazy and curl it all up (a la Meg Ryan) or straighten it for a sleek look.

Bun or ponytail? When I pull my hair back into a pony it’s like just a little nugget of hair back there…but that’s how I like to have it to sleep or workout. My hair isn’t long enough for a bun.

Bobby pins or butterfly clips? Bobbies

Hairspray or hair gel? I have a special relationship with my Hairspray.

Long or short? I’ve had my hair every which way and just recently chopped it all off. I have to say, it’s the best short cut I’ve had in a long time and I love it. That isn’t to say I won’t go crazy one day and opt for extensions…but as of right now, I’m loving the length!

Light or dark? Another thing I can’t keep for too long is the color of my hair. My theory on hair color, it’s easy to change (a lot easier than the changing of my A** size!!). Right now I’m lighter than usual (not blonde though!)…I usually go darker in December. We’ll see if that happens this year.

Side sweep bangs or full bangs? Side swept is what I have right now. I love bangs and then I’ll hate them, grow them out for a couple months, hate that style and cut them. It’s a never ending cycle!

Up or down? It’s a little too short to wear up outside of the house or while working out. But I do love to pin a side back with a cute clip or flower/accessory.

RANDOM

Rain or shine? Shine all the time!

Summer or winter? Summer!

Fall or spring? Toss up in California…Fall is awesome with the fashions, but of course, half of them you can’t actually wear in Cali temps…and Spring is always lovely and welcoming. Plus my bday is in Spring so that is always a plus ☺

Chocolate or vanilla? What? I can only choose one? That’s crazy talk! Both!

East or west coast? West Side! California Loooooove…. (sing it like 2pac)

Q&A via

Crafting with the Stars entry

2011-09-05T09:55:00.000-07:00

So I decided to do something that takes me completely out of my comfort zone and enter the Crafting With the Stars audition contest.

There are so many wonderful entries, I doubt that I will be chosen...but I thought, what the heck! It's fun to try :)

So, we'll see what happens...I entered my post from August 3rd, titled Baby Shower.

These are my outfits that I crafted and entered:

Wish me luck!

We Won!!!

2011-09-03T12:47:00.000-07:00

Last night was the first Varsity Football game of the school year and my first as the new cheer coach!!

After our terrible season last year (0 and 10, ouch!) all I could hope for this year was that our loses weren't blamed on my cheer girls....well, it looks like things will be going well for our Varsity boys this year!!

Such an exciting game and the girls were awesome!!!

I'm such a proud coach :)

Have I mentioned how much I love my job?

9/2 is Ovarion Cancer Awareness

2011-08-31T22:48:00.000-07:00

While perusing my favorite blogs through my Google Reader I came across a post from Reenie Jae Creations and it hit close to home. September 2nd is ovarian cancer awareness day. Did you know that? Neither did I. I lost my grandmother, Coozy, to Ovarian Cancer.

According to the The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition website:

"20,000 women are diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer every year in the U.S and 15,000 die annually from the disease. As of right now there is NO early detection test for Ovarian Cancer, and the majority of cases are diagnosed in their later stages. Awareness is the key to knowing the subtle early signs of Ovarian Cancer."

Reading this makes me so sad and so very angry. I know if there were an early detection, my grandmother would not have had to go through such a terrible cancer and passing. She could possibly still be with us today had early detection been available.

September 2nd is NATIONAL TEAL DAY, wear the color for awareness of Ovarian Cancer, and in remembrance of those who have passed on because of it.

I WILL BE WEARING TEAL ON FRIDAY!

And I am asking if you would support me by doing so too.

Be Safe, Be Happy, Be Strong, Be Healthy

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-08-31T20:55:00.000-07:00

Each Wednesday the teachers on campus promote going to college by wearing our alma mater gear. Well, sadly, I do not have one article of Chapman clothing! How awful is that!?!…but luckily, Forever 21 has a whole collection of college gear available…and you can’t beat the price!! So today I was a Bulldog : )

Keep in mind, I teach dance for a living, so although the purpose of What I Wore is to get out of the sweats and yoga gear, this is helping me dress a little bit cuter in my sweats and yoga gear ☺

Yale Shirt: Forever 21

Red Tank: Nordstrom

Shorts: Target

Shoes: Sketchers (2001!)

Hair Clip: Molly Made Me

Update!! After having an awesome Hump Day, teaching my amazing dancers all day…I ended the day not so great…

Let’s just say that dancers usually don’t get hurt actually dancing! Ya, I fell…off a cabinet I was standing on so I could see my Dance Team better...just stepped off wrong and ate it! Broke my foot! (Side note, it was HIlarious!! Seriously, I landed in the trash can...I was dying, laughing so hard! Didn't start hurting for a good half hour and then my foot swelled... awesome).

Next 6 weeks of What I Wore will be sporting a bedazzled cast…sweet :/

Diet Coke No More

2011-08-29T20:11:00.000-07:00

I've finally broken up with a very close friend of mine...let's just say we've been through a lot together and well, as hard as it was to end ~~my addiction~~ our friendship, I have to admit I am a much happier person (and a lot less bloated!).

So, with this I bid so long

Farewell

Auf Wiedersehen

40 days without today!! Woohoo!!!

pics via

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Etsy Page

2011-08-28T22:34:00.000-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop/dyn2dnz

Is up and running...please visit and take a look around! If you are so inclined, purchase something :)

If you'd be so kind to take a 'liking' on my Facebook Page too!!!

Saturday

2011-08-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Saturday!

Here's what's happening in our neck of the woods...

Timmy is starting our paint re-do in the office/sewing/workout room

We've got some classic alternative playing on the XM

Dunzo is watching the world go by in his favorite spot

I'm relaxing while perusing my favorite blogs

And wishing I was back here

And just because I have to share

I burned myself a couple days ago with my flat iron...just nicked myself and didn't think much of it...well, it left a mark...in the shape of a HEART!! Crazy, huh?!?

Hope you are all enjoying your Saturday! :)

Laundry re-do

2011-08-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

Like with anything, there are only a small handful of things that I did not love when purchasing our home. There isn’t anything major (aside from gutting our master bathroom, I digress) mostly a few areas that needed to either be fixed up or given a little sprucing.

One of these items was our garage laundry room. In our town house we had a little laundry closet on the second floor and it was the perfect little space. Now, we have our washer and dryer in our garage and although I wish I had a separate little laundry/mud room (thanks to those Pottery Barn catalogues that come in the mail), I am grateful for having a space to wash and dry our clothes within our home.

So, upon purchasing our home, this is what we have…

Obviously, it is nothing fancy and well, pretty boring. The garage still needs a lot of love, like drywall, but it works. My hubby is the most organized, clean person I know and the garage is a reflection of his ~~OCD~~ TLC. It is very organized, holds all our holiday decorations, pool chemicals, yard tools and we can park both cars in it…. the reality though is that given time and money, we’d rather focus our energy on the inside of our home, so improving this space was not high on our priority list.

However, seeing as I do laundry every week and spend many an hour out in that little space, I couldn’t stand the drab any longer. I realized that as a teacher who has summers off, the more I was home, the more I wanted to fix, paint, build, etc., which invariably leads to more money being spent (and no money coming in as I am on a 10 month pay contract…. this is where creativity comes in…) Being inspired by many DIY blogs that I follow and loving the idea of Mod Podge, I decided to play around with it in the laundry space. And here is what I did with one of my many free afternoons…

Hey, when you can’t completely get what you want, at least you can beautify it to make it more likeable!

It didn’t take all that long and it was fun mixing the patterns and pictures. Basically I wallpapered the space by applying Mod Podge and scrapbooking paper (purchased on sale and with a coupon from Michaels on a random shopping whim, not really knowing at the time what I would do with it, since I don’t scrapbook). I also added the little laundry quote as I thought it was perfectly applicable.

Next up, ~~I’m going to purchase this new washer and dryer~~ I’m going to Mod Podge the ~~environmentally friendly~~ fridge to the right of the laundry, complete the left side of the laundry with the paper and then paint our water heater door…I’m thinking red (~~to match the new washer and dryer~~)???

Ridiculous Want

2011-08-26T18:36:00.000-07:00

Awhile back I was shopping with my friend at the mall and we went into one of those random stores that has just about everything under the sun in it (makeup, hair accessories, purses, shoes, etc). In the very back of the store we came upon the greatest makeup case I've ever seen.

Now, with a price tag of $500.00 and really no need for anything of such extravagance, this is just a ridiculous want that I have, yet, I just can't get it out of my mind! (I'm such a girl!)

Anyway, thought I'd share it with my blogging world...but seriously, check out the pics....how freaking awesome is this?!!

via

So cool!!!

Yet, I do have to elaborate on how unneeded this item is for me....although I have quite a bit of makeup, my daily routine consists of powder, bronzer, mascara and some gloss. Not exactly a justifiable makeup routine to splurge on this bad boy :)

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-08-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to join this for a long time, and I figured what better day to start than the first day of school!!

Dress: Forever 21

Shoes: Jessica Simpson

Watch: Fossil

Coffee Mug: Starbucks :)

As a dance teacher, I don't get to dress up very often. So, I took advantage of it today, since there wouldn't be any actual dancing the first day of school. Next week's link up will probably be just me in my teacher gear, aka sweats and tank top.

Back to School

2011-08-23T22:29:00.000-07:00

A wise man once said

"The best teachers teach from the heart, not from the book"

And tomorrow, I am back to doing what I love the most. School starts at LAHS, and I can't wait!!

I love my job :)

Inspiration=Movement

2011-08-22T21:53:00.000-07:00

via

Mocktails

2011-08-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

A few months back while perusing one of my many magazines (~~addictions)~~ , I noticed an add for some new crystal light flavors (limited edition). I was so excited, I could hardly wait to get my hands on all the flavors. Well, let me tell you...finding them has been a big pain in the butt. Luckily, once I'm onto something, I rarely give up, and my persistence paid off....I finally found them!!

via

I can't even chose a favorite because they are all so tasty! My hubby loves to use the margarita flavored one and add a little tequila to it. He thinks it makes a lighter and better tasting margarita because it isn't too sweet.

I just can't believe how flavorful and real tasting (I couldn't think of a different adjective for explanation purposes) they all are.

So Delicious and what a great idea for those who enjoy the taste but don't wish to partake in the alcohol! Brilliant!!

Once again, another idea I wish I had come up with first.

Check them out before they are gone...I've already stocked up on them, so once the limited edition is discontinued I can keep on enjoying :)

images via

Gift Card Tree

2011-08-21T18:36:00.000-07:00

I received this Gift Card Tree from my dancers and I thought it was so cute and had to share! What a creative idea for giving gift cards....and so easy too!

All you need:

small flower pot

4 dowels (depending on how many cards you are giving)

flower cut outs (great craft for little one's too!)

double sided tape

glue glitter/markers

Put it all together and you have a darling gift!!

I love it!! :)

Sharing this tutorial over at:

Stop by and give all those creative people some love :)

Hi-LARIOUS!!!

2011-08-16T23:38:00.000-07:00

Peeing my pants funny...

You Can Find Me Here

2011-08-13T20:33:00.000-07:00

photo source

If you need me, this is where I'll be for the next week!!

Hallelujah for vacation!!

Hair

2011-08-12T16:29:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh, I was watching SYTYCD last night (by the way, worst finale ever, although I am happy for Melanie) and I couldn't get over Dianne Agron's haircut (or haircute, which is how I accidentally wrote it the first time...it's just such an accurate description!) at the Glee premiere!!!

photo source

I have a hair appt next Saturday to ~~cover my grays~~ color and ~~naturally~~ highlight my hair, but I think I may just have to cut some sassy layers in as well!! And, I think I have finally grown my bangs out long enough and have decided, ya, not so much. I end up pinning them back most of the time or tucking the hair behind my ear...so I may as well add that cute side swipe bang too.

My only issue (actually I have plenty of issues, but let's just stick to this topic) once I do all this, I need to come to terms that I won't look like her!! Always the pits with cute hair styles. Like that dreaded time I went for Katie Holmes short bob...SO. NOT. CUTE. ON. ME!!! Don't even get me started on my round face and blunt short hair....yuck!

So, if I do take the plunge of this here adorable hair cut, I'll make sure to post pics...in the meantime, what do you in blogland think? Yes/no...

Here is my hair now...

Gelish

2011-08-12T16:04:00.000-07:00

I haven't worn acrylic nails in about 2 years and with that, I've struggled to keep my nails from splitting, breaking and peeling. I've never had nails that grow very long and I am not a nail biter. They just don't tend to grow very well...even though I religiously take hair, skin and nail vitamins along with my daily vitamin.

So, I was super excited when they came out with gel product for natural nails. And, I love it! They last for 2 full weeks, almost 3 weeks (if you wear a lighter color) and they have a multitude of colors to choose from. I love it because they keep my nails nice and they are growing! I even had to recently cut them! WHAT?? I can't tell you the last time I had to deliberately cut my finger nails.

The only down fall to gel nails is the price. Now, I am the first in line for pampering and I love me a pedicure, but for some reason the $30.00 every 2 week bit is just a little too draining on my teacher salary pocketbook.

Lucky me, Sally's just came out with Gelish polish in mini size. They even have a starter pack (ph bond, foundation, top coat and cuticle oil) for $29! Such a steal. And the mini's are perfect for the at home manicure...the only other thing that is needed is a UV light, which Sally's also has an array of and usually a great sale (although I do not recommend the mini UV light that Gelish offers as it doesn't work very good and takes a long time for the polish to cure...invest a few more dollars ($10) and go up to the next most inexpensive light)

So, I purchased 2 colors, a sparkly red and a girly pink and then I went back the next day and got a white and light pink so I could do a French manicure. Sally's even sells the little forms to help you get a perfect arch line (genius!)...

Gotta say, it is awesome! I just pamper myself at home and can change colors as often as I like without the cost! It took me just over an hour to give myself the French manicure but it turned out great. It's going to be perfect for my vacation next week!

I'm linking up at Just A Girl for the Show and Share Day

The Help

2011-08-11T10:48:00.000-07:00

Today my friend Alise and I are going to see the movie 'The Help'. I can't wait!! I love, love, loved the book (couldn't put it down kind of love!) and I'm hearing great reviews about the movie.

And, my most favorite thing about the movie theater that we are going to....the drink station! You purchase the size beverage you want and then you fill it up on your own...but it's not any normal drink station (think 7-11). Nope, this is the mega daddy of drink stations. It has every flavored beverage/soft drink under the sun, and once you choose that, you can choose to add any flavor to it...for example, say I choose Diet Coke, I then get a list of pop up flavor add ins, vanilla, raspberry, chocolate, etc. But this is for any soft drink!! You can choose Sprite, Dr. Pepper, Root Beer, the list goes on and on.

Ok, I sound overly excited about it, but it's just so cool!

Images found here and here

SYTYCD 2011

2011-08-10T13:01:00.000-07:00

Who do you think is going to win???

I'll be shocked if it is one of the guys...can't wait to find out!

Stylist Aprons

2011-08-10T12:56:00.000-07:00

Awhile back I was getting my hair did by my fabulous stylist, Ashley, and she had on the cutest apron. After oogling over it for a little while, I got to thinking..."I could totally make one!". So I did (well, made a couple actually)....

The body portion is made out of nylon, so they are easy to clean or just wipe down. I mean, why shouldn't you still look sassy when covering up your clothes??

I'll be adding a few of these in my etsy shop as well...once I get it going :)

And I'm linking up to my first link party with this here little post!!

Check it out and give all those crafty people some love :)

OC Fair 2011

2011-08-10T12:48:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Tim and I and 6 of our friends went to the OC Fair for an evening of delicious treats and pretending to be kids again.

I didn't take a whole lot of pics, and never got a group shot of us all :( but we had a great time. Tim even played a few of the fair games (albeit for a whole lotta money) and even won a few prizes (aka = cheaply made stuffed animals).

I ended up finding some cute kids walking around the fair to unload the prizes onto but did keep the big bulldog (only because not one little kid wanted it!!!) and now its Dunzo's new friend (alas, even he isn't that thrilled with it either).

Of course the highlight of the night is eating all the wonderful treats...let's see, Tim and I shared everything and the menu included, Chicken kabobs, Philly steak fries, a corndog (I know, super healthy food! :P) and the best for last...

Fried Klondike bar!!! YUMMY!!!

We had a great time, can't wait to go again next year :)

Dance Top- First attempt

2011-08-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

I took an old dance top of mine for inspiration and then just started cutting some stretch knit fabric...here is my first attempt at a halter dance top.

I didn't put any elastic in it because I didn't want to waste it on a prototype and it still needs a few adjustments, but I think it's actually pretty decent. I was even thinking about attaching fabric to the bottom and making it into a maxi dress...

I think I'm going to purchase some Lycra fabric and try it for real...perhaps another thing to add the etsy shop....?????

Baby Shower

2011-08-03T10:50:00.000-07:00

I am going to a girlfriend's baby shower this weekend and she is expecting a little girl, Lucy. Isn't that just the cutest name?!

So, this is what I made her for her little bundle of joy that will arrive around September 15th...

The pictures make them look big, but the onesie is a 6-9mo and the skirt fits up to 12 mo because of the elastic. And the flowers up by the shoulders are little hair clips.

I actually made a couple more and am thinking about starting up my etsy shop again...?????

Contract and Cheer

2011-08-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

Back in February I talked about getting the dreaded pink slip…well, I’m happy to say that last Thursday I signed my contract for another year of teaching!! Woohoo!!

Along with my new contract, I have also taken on the added responsibility of not only the Director of Dance and Dance Team coach at LAHS, I am now the Director of Cheer and Cheer coach as well!

Now, for some odd reason, people who do not dance or cheer have this belief that the two go hand in hand. Well, let me tell you how out of my element I am in the world of cheer. It is like a whole other planet and I am on the fast track to learning it all!!

Last week, all 26 of my cheerleaders attended cheer camp at one of our rival high schools and it was a blast. The cheer coach from the other school and I are good friends and she is beyond awesome at her job (think National champs for the last umpteen years!)!! Every part of the cheer program I am implementing has been guided by her and I have to say it is running very smoothly*. A perfect mentor for me, thank GOD!!

*Side note, the cheer program at my high school has been an upside down, horrible mess the last, oh, 10 years or so!! Just last year they went through 4 coaches!! It’s been a nightmare and when I was told that I would be taking over the program (or hasta la vista to my job) every teacher and admin on campus would come up to me with a very concerned look and ask if I was "ok?" (imagine the face of someone asking how you are doing as if your pet just died). Ya, it’s been THAT bad!

My team is young, but talented… I’m really excited to see what the year holds with my #1 dance team and my #1 cheer team!! : )

I’m thinking that both my teams are going to be National Champs this year!! Actually, I know it!!

Juicer

2011-07-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

photo credit

A few months ago one of my bestie's was telling me all about how she has fresh juice every morning and how it is the only way she can get her toddler to consume the needed veggies and fruits he needs. Not only is it super healthy but both she and her little one absolutely love it.

So, I took the plunge and purchased the Hamilton Beach juicer through Amazon. I have to say, it is awesome!!! I have to say that my favorite juice is fresh pineapple, but I also love watermelon, apple, mango, cantaloupe...hmmm, come to think of it, I guess I'm not that picky when it comes to the fruits I love juiced.

I even like to juice vegetables. Who knew that broccoli was so great juiced? It's got this nutty flavor that is super yummy...even when you add it to the fruit.

Because I loved it so much, Tim and I purchased one for my mom for Mother's Day. Now she is on the juicer band wagon as well.

Cheers to healthy juicing :)

Hair

2011-07-18T10:53:00.000-07:00

I cut my hair off a few weeks ago...and I LOVE it!! I actually think I'm going to chop the back a bit more so I have more of an a-line. Usually I hate short hair, but I'm really loving it!!

(and how cute is that pic of my hubby and I??? Taken on a surprise date night he planned)

April 5=32

2011-04-11T13:54:00.000-07:00

I think I like 32 and it likes me :)

Happenings...

2011-04-11T13:50:00.000-07:00

These past few weeks have been a whirlwind of craziness...but I am happy to say, I made it through!! (Well, sort of, I am writing this while I am staying home in bed sick from school today...go figure that with all the stress my immune system goes down the drain and germs get the best of me)

The past month every spare moment has been working on producing my first dance concert at the high school. And, I did it...WE (the dancers) did it! and best of all....IT WAS AWESOME!!!

So very proud of my dancers...they really brought their A game to this show.

In the end, it was phenomenal...and all the blood, sweat and tears leading up to it were so worth it. Can't wait to do it all again next year!

WW update- Week 4

2011-03-06T08:35:00.000-08:00

Just in case anyone was wondering, no, I haven't stopped the weight watchers, however, my life is getting crazy (dance competition season!) and I haven't been able to make it to my meetings and weigh ins. I can only go on the weekends and those have been dedicated to extra dance rehearsals...

Also...my friend and WW partner is no longer participating with me....she is pregnant!! So excited for her, but now I have to go it alone...booo

and last but not least, I gained this weigh in...crap :(

3 years

2011-03-05T17:21:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday of this week, my hubby and I celebrated our 3 year anniversary!! I can't believe it has already been 3 years...

Last weekend we snuck away to Palm Desert for a couple of days and had a lovely time, enjoying great dinners, walking around, shopping and just enjoying spending time with one another...but like a big nerd, I took NO pictures !! I even had my camera with me the whole time! Ugh...I suppose there is always next year :)

**(the above picture was taken on our 3rd date, the night he met my parents and the day before we professed our undying love for one another :)

In the Pink

2011-02-21T07:30:00.000-08:00

Well, I can't say that I was in shock or surprised when it finally happened. I knew it was coming from the time I signed on the dotted line, however, it sure doesn't make it any easier...that's for sure.

Budget crises! Let's just hope the state of California and the educational system as a whole can get it together soon. And, ultimately, that I am hired back!

I should know as early as May, maybe June. But, it is possible I won't know about my security until August. Here's hoping that the budget is figured out in a quick and timely manner!! And, that I only have another year of being a temporary teacher...come on Probationary period and then tenure!! Prayers welcome :)

New Obsession

2011-02-14T21:34:00.000-08:00

I'm ridiculously obsessed with this iphone app...it's like a serious addiction!! And it's only 99cents...who knew entertainment could be so cheap!

'Nuff said!

Shattered

2011-02-14T21:25:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of this new polish yet?

It's from Katy Perry's new nail polish line with OPI and my wonderful hubby ordered it for me through Amazon.

I just have to give a quick review and tell you all that it is awesome and super fun...but the price point is a bit ridiculous...so, wait until the hype is over to purchase it :)

And while I am on the subject of nailpolish, I have to give a rave review for the best topcoat around...

It literally stands by its name and you can polish, wait just a minute or so and it's dry. Awesome!!!

Happy Hearts Day!

2011-02-14T21:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

I absolutely love Valentine's Day...maybe because of the colors, or perhaps the idea of love, or could it be roses and chocolates??? I just love it, and I have a slight obsession with hearts, so it just seems fitting to love the ultimate hearts day.

I've seen so many wonderful Valentine craft ideas from all the blogs I peruse, but my favorite was the idea that I got from At Second Street via Tatertots and Jello, with the Valentine Love Juice. I decided that this was the perfect little Valentine to give to each member on my dance team (yep, all 36 of them!!) The girls loved them and they were so cute!!

I also mentioned that I had picked up a crystal candlestick and cute Valentine plate from Homegoods,... I then used a little super glue and turned them into a cute cookie/cake/treat stand and then whipped up a little yummy snack to put on it. Yummers! I gave this to my mom for Valentine's Day.

And then, my last attempt to recreate another yummy treat from another great blog I follow....and well...

it turned out to be a major fail! I couldn't keep my graham crackers from cracking once the chocolate and marshmallows were melted. Oh well...they tasted good anyways...just not presentable like I was hoping.

I hope everyone has had a wonderful happy hearts day!! Love you all :)

Homegoods

2011-02-06T11:18:00.000-08:00

I Love love looooooove this store! There is so much to see that if you don't have a lot of time to spend walking the aisles, can either be just enough time to spark your creativity, make you want to redecorate your entire house, be very overwhelming or downright really frustrating. The ideas that pop into my head with different crafts and decorating projects that can be made are unlimited, as well as a great location and source when you need that exact thing, whatever that thing may be. And, of course, it is always the perfect place to go when you just want to be out of the house, shopping or window viewing, and don't want to spend a lot of money. If you have one near you, you're lucky, if not, it's a great way to spend the day, so take a drive :)

Here are a few images of the fabulousness found via Homegoods

And that's just a glimpse...so much more than can be shown in just a few pics.

Yesterday I stopped by after I was inspired from one of the many DIY blogs I follow...I picked up a candlestick holder and a plate.... :) . Show you what came of them soon!

Oh, and yes, I am aware that fabulousness is not in fact a word, unless you are using it to describe Homegoods, or anything else that you find fits :)....and besides, it should be!

WW update- week 3

2011-02-06T10:47:00.000-08:00

Third weigh in, stayed the same. On the plus side, it didn't go up :)

A New Obsession

2011-01-30T10:08:00.000-08:00

I have come across a new show this Sunday morning, and I haven't moved from the couch since early this morning....The History channel's Pawn Stars.

Holy moly, don't even know why I like it so much, but the guys are funny, endearing and very knowledgeable. It is crazy what some people have hiding away in their garages, closets and then how much some people want for their crap! People come into to the shop trying to sell everything from guitars to motorcycles, to hand-made mortars (which by the way, was completely awesome when they tested it out with a bowling ball)! If you find yourself just sitting around this Sunday, check it out, they are having a marathon...pretty awesome.

Definitely going to visit the shop on my next trip to Vegas :)

WW update- week 2

2011-01-25T20:40:00.000-08:00

Second weigh in- down 1.8 pounds!! :)

New Signature

2011-01-22T22:49:00.000-08:00

I've got a signature for my posts now...whatdya think? :)

Chiro Care

2011-01-22T22:45:00.001-08:00

All my years of dancing have really taken a toll on my body. I choose to think of it that way, as opposed to believing that the aches and pains I feel daily is that of my aging body...so no, it's because of dance :)

I started a chiropractic care schedule, as one of my good friends from junior high through high school now has his own practice, and I trust him a lot. That's I think the biggest thing of all, you have to trust the person who is crack-a-lackin your body!

I'm already starting to feel better, but my body needs a lot of work. After looking at my neck x-rays he asked me if I had been in a major car accident. Nope, not me, never have. He then asked me if I was 'whippin my hair' along with Willow Smith (well, as a matter of fact, I did just choreograph a routine to that on my dance team and even their necks hurt for a few days after...but the dance was fierce! Glad to know I am leading my dancers to a life of needed chiropractic care when they are in their adult years...awesome.)

So, off I go, each Saturday to receive some back, neck and hip therapy on my ~~aging~~ dance injured body.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend thus far and is feeling pain free!!

Nail Polish

2011-01-17T16:54:00.000-08:00

So, with the New Year, also came the repayment plan for my Graduate loan (BOOOO!), so I've reluctantly given up a few of my indulgences, two of which are my pedicures and manicures (insert crying here)...

While perusing the aisles of CVS, I came across these new Sally Hanson Salon Effects nail strips. Of course it peeked my curiousity as I love cool nail polish, but with natural nails (now that I have taken off the acrylics, which by the way, my nails constantly peel and look like crap, regardless of how many vitamins I take and it has been over 2 months!....I digress, that's another post at a later time), it is hard to keep the polish on.

So, for just a little over $10.00, I purchased these and couldn't wait to get home to try them on. I purchased the Laced Up, but there are so many to choose from, it's tough to pick just one. Originally I only planned to put them on my toes, as mentioned above, my nails are looking really bad and wasn't sure it would be worth it to put them on my fingers.

The set comes with 16 strips, and the directions recommend that you choose which side fits your nail best, fit them on, apply and then file off the excess. Well, that's all fine and good, but seeing as I wanted to get the most out of my purchase, I took my little manicure scissors and clipped off the excess, so I could use the other side. So, I was able to have enough strips for my toes and leave the other package of strips (the 16 come in two packages), for another application at a different time.

It doesn't take much time to apply them and the whole process is fairly easy. I actually put the strips on my toes about two weeks ago and they are still holding strong.

I decided to put the other package on my fingers today, we'll see how long they last...

I think they are really cool and totally worth the money. Best part, they last forever on the toes and they actually help to make my finger nails look less horrendous...Let me know if anyone tries them in other colors...I may have found a new obsession :)

WW update-week 1

2011-01-16T11:20:00.000-08:00

First weigh in, down 1.6 pounds :)

Fallen Tree

2011-01-16T11:17:00.000-08:00

Over the holiday break we had some major weather here in Cali....wind, rain, cold, well, major for us (as we are now enjoying a weekend of 80 degree weather :)...

Well, at the high school I teach, we have beautiful courtyards in between buildings, with these huge trees...been there for years. The weather was so bad one night that it actually uprooted one of the trees and it fell over onto the math/science building.

Talk about God's good graces, luckily school was out and students and faculty were already on holiday break, so no one was around...no injuries and even the classrooms had minor damage. The building didn't fair as well, but that is an easy fix up, considering how awful it could have been.

Here are some of the pics...crazy!!!

Chalkboard Menu

2011-01-09T22:30:00.000-08:00

I've been obsessed with a bunch of new blogs lately, one of which is called The Idea Room. Such creative ideas and projects that I am inspired to do. One of which is the Chalkboard Menu. After coming across this post I knew I had to replicate it, as I had the most perfect place in my kitchen for the menu to hang. So, I got busy (enlisting my mom to come and help me get all the supplies)...

First off, finding a frame that would work well in our kitchen as well as be large enough to fit the week of dinners...off to Michael's after Christmas sale I went and found a fabulous frame that would work perfect...and 50% off too!

Next up, the actual Chalkboard paint. I went ahead and just painted the glass that came with the frame, as it was the easiest to do. Following the directions, I applied two coats of the paint, allowing the proper drying time between each coat.

I then colored the whole chalkboard with chalk, per the paint directions, before going ahead and putting the final touches of the menu together.

And voila, final project

Here is where it hangs in our kitchen...

You will notice that I only have Monday through Friday listed, because the reality is, we don't have to plan ahead for the weekends. Both Tim and I are home on the weekends and Saturdays tend to be date night so we go out to dinner or hang out with friends. Sundays we plan what we have before going to the grocery store to stock up on all the upcoming weekly needs. It is really just a need during the week...and now with the my weight watchers, it will be a big help to know what we are having and staying accountable!

Another project I love love love!!! Gosh, I'm just getting so creative lately :)

It's a New Year

2011-01-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

So, I, along with a million other people at the start of this new year, have jumped on the band-wagon of New Year weight loss. My close friend and neighbor and I signed up together...I'm pretty excited :)

So, my first goal is to lose 7 pounds...my second goal is 14 pounds, and the ultimate goal is to lose a total of 20 pounds. I'm hoping to do this by summer...middle of June. I'm wanting to be able to wear shorts this summer and feel good in them...wish me luck!

Kitchen towel curtains

2011-01-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

I've had these 4 Williams Sonoma kitchen towels for over a year and they have never been used. So, today I was inspired to do something with them and since I have been perusing a million design blogs, which by the way, are so creative and inspiring, I decided to try my hand at being a little crafty.

So, what started out looking like this...

Ended up looking like this...

but...they were a bit too fluffy for our kitchen. With all our black and stainless steel appliances, fluff was not exactly what I was going for and I was also in need of a longer curtain rod. So, after sleeping on it and figuring out what to do, I decided to take the 4 panels down to 2 (and buy a rod extension :)...

Awe, much better! Best part, even my hubby loves it :)

****Update****

So after my mom came over and checked out the kitchen curtains, she had suggested that I add some trim, just to give a more finished look and a little less like actual kitchen towels hanging. So, after a trip to Joann's and the use of my glue gun...here is the ultimate finished project...

Wine Chicken Cooker

2011-01-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Have you ever seen one of these?

Well, Tim and I got one from my Aunt Chris, aka Percy, this Christmas and let me just tell you....it's FABULOUS!!!

you can really put just about anything in the reservoir...we opted for some garlic and red wine...and then I just took my small whole chicken (skin off!) and put a bunch of different herbs and spices all over it. I also filled the bowl portion with carrots, onions and fingerling potatoes. Since I didn't have any skin on the bird and I didn't want the meat to dry out, I basted every 15 minutes or so with the wine and garlic sauce.

The dinner was awesome and we even had left over meat to use in other dishes for the next few days. I highly recommend it...and if you aren't a wine person, you can really do just about anything!

Find one here or here

2010 year in review

2010-12-31T19:54:00.000-08:00

It’s hard to believe another year has come and gone. I always enjoy going through my Day-Timer and seeing how long (or short) ago certain events took place. Here is how far we’ve come in just 1 year…

January of last year I had just started my student teaching at Newport Harbor High School to complete the final portion of my Master’s degree and credential program. My life was overwhelming from January through June as I reported to school Monday through Friday to teach 7:30am to 2pm and then working at Nordstrom Monday through Wednesday evenings starting at 4pm and closing the store past 10pm as well as working various morning and evening shifts each weekend. Thursday and Friday evenings were spent teaching dance at the studio. Aggghhhh, just thinking about it brings me back to that stress and lack of sleep. 15-hour days, near 7 days a week…so grateful that time has passed and we made it through!

February was much of the same as January, work, work and more work. Not a whole heck of a lot else took place during that month. My poor husband literally lacked a wife during these months, but at least we knew there would eventually be an end to all this craziness.

In March, Tim and I celebrated our 2nd wedding anniversary. Tim took the reigns and planned a beautiful evening, involving a limo, a visit to our old stomping grounds and a wonderful dinner at one of my favorite restaurants. It was hard to find a lot of time to get away, so he made it special even though we could only spare one evening. March also brought the added excitement of dance competition season. So, along with student teaching, working at Nordstrom and teaching at the studio, I added to my already busy work weekends with dance competitions. I like to think that this is what kept me sane, as I truly live for competition season!

April brought with it my 31st birthday and a much-needed Spring Break. I luckily had though ahead and taken that week off work from Nordstrom and the studio just happened to have the same week off, so it all worked out. All I wanted to do was RELAX! And, I did ☺. Once the break was over it was back to the 15 hour, 7 day a week work and student teaching schedule. Along with the weekends being spent in convention centers and hotel ballrooms, coaching and cheering on my dancers at competitions.

May unfortunately contained not much new, although I was a little over a month away from my schedule calming down. The light at the end of the tunnel was starting to become a bit brighter. I do distinctively remember the prospective job outlook as a teacher being somewhat rather bleak and although Nordstrom had been wonderful to me for the past year and a half while finishing my Master’s degree and credential, I certainly did not want to go into retail sales fulltime.

June, oh sweet Jesus, June!! 6 months of misery, albeit necessary and beneficial in the long run, had finally come to a close! June was an awesome month. On the 4th I walked in the commencement ceremony at the Ontario Convention Center and received my Masters in Education degree, graduating with a solid 4.0 GPA! My freedom came on June 18th, the last day of school at Newport. My hellish schedule was finally over and now I could enjoy summer…NOT! Nope, now it was time to get on the job hunt and see if all this hard work would lead to an actual job and career for the upcoming school year. It wasn’t easy and again, the prospect was bleak, but it was time to get to job hunting and well, have a little faith.

In July the weather was not typical California hot as our June gloom saw us through until August. So much for spending lazy afternoons on the beach reading my trashy romance novels. Instead, I increased my time and hours at Nordstrom and my two days off from there were still spent training dancers at the studio. I had an interview at one high school for a dance teacher position and 3 interviews later; I thought I had that job in the bag. Unfortunately, the school was taking their sweet time in getting back to me, so once again, I spent my time off work sending out resumes and applying for teaching jobs. I just figured, if I sent enough, one would eventually land on the right desk and I’d actually get the job. Hey, one could dream ☺! While waiting to hear from school #1, I went on an interview for another dance/PE position at a high school in Hacienda Heights named Los Altos. Well, to make a very long story somewhat short, the interview went off without a hitch, probably because in my bones I knew I had gotten the #1 job and was just going on this interview as a ‘just in case’. 2 days later, on July 30th, I was informed that school #1 had gone with another candidate and I did not get the job…d-e-v-a-s-t-a-t-i-o-n!!!

August- isn’t it funny how a few days can seem like an eternity?? So, school #1 didn’t go with me and now I was praying that Los Altos did…Monday, August 2nd, Los Altos called, looked like they would be offering me the job! I signed my contract on the 19th and my first official day a s high school teacher began on the 27th. Can you believe it? Talk about timing, luck, motivation and all the planets aligning!

September I got into the groove of school. Getting to know my students and dance team, as well as starting a new season at the dance studio in addition to picking up another evening of teaching dance at another local studio. I’m still just as busy, although I am now doing what I love, getting paid and I have my weekends off from work to spend with my husband. September also brought with it Tim’s 37th birthday.

October was a fun month. The first weekend, my parents, Tim and I got away to Vegas to celebrate my Dad’s birthday along with going to the annual Los Angeles Kings Frozen Fury game. The following weekend I attended a wedding of good family friends, up north in Los Gatos. The location was absolutely stunning and the kicker was that my dad was the officiate and married the lovely couple (thanks to the internet ☺). The month came to an end with me teaching all my classes at school the original Michael Jackson Thriller choreography and then performing it at lunch with a bunch of students who came up on stage. It was awesome! Oh, and not to be forgotten, in the 1st time since who knows when, I actually dressed up for Halloween as a zombie.

November is one of my favorite months, as I love Fall and the lead up to all the holidays and festivities. My mom and I escaped for a few days to share some Mom/daughter bonding time. The weekend was spent, shopping, eating, drinking and sharing lots and lots of laughs. I think we’ve decided to make it an annual event as well. Tim and I spent Thanksgiving Day at my parents’ house in Huntington Beach and then that Saturday my parents and we went to his parents’ house in Riverside for another wonderful Thanksgiving feast.

December has been a fabulous month to top off this eventful 2010. The month was fairly easy at school and I, along with all the kids, was looking forward to having 2 weeks off and being able to spend my time relaxing. I was able to sew and work on a few new crafts, as well as spend time with Tim. As my vacation comes to a close this weekend, I am very much looking forward to getting back to school and being with my students. I love my job, I love my life, and I am very excited to see what 2011 brings!!

$35.00

2010-02-11T16:56:00.000-08:00

I have $35.00 in my checking account. Here I am, 30 years old, a wife and homeowner, college graduate (cum laude!), currently a Graduate student earning both my Master’s in Education and my teaching credential, with a total of 3 jobs! However, all of my bills are paid so the fact that I am now left with $35.00 until my next paycheck on the 20^th, leaves me feeling very grateful for the blessings and events that have taken place these last few months. At the same time, I’m also feeling overwhelmed and stressed with the fact that as a wife, homeowner, college graduate and having 3 jobs (only two of which I get paid for), I am left with only $35.00 in my checking account. Blame it on bad money management or unplanned expenses (hello car registration!), but how can one not feel a bit like a loser with so little until next payday? And then I watch Oprah, and think of those women who chose to live a life as a nun, taking many vows, one of which is to lead a life of poverty, having no material possessions. Can you imagine? There is something very freeing in the thought of having no material possessions. Yet, I then look around my home and again am struck by how very fortunate I am. Needless to say, it’s been a rough week; yet, my bills are paid, so I suppose I’m still coming out ahead. Oh ya, and let’s not forget to mention that I am totally sick right now. Have been sick for four days, missing two days of student teaching and two days of work (both jobs), so that paycheck on the 20^th, ya, not sure how great it’ll be... but c’est la vie…what can you do?

So, let’s see, let me fill you in on what has been taking place in my life and the battle of thoughts I have been having over my current condition. Yes, partly this post is a pity party, and partly it is my way of categorizing my thoughts in an organized and methodical way that will allow me to look back and realize that during this stage of being, I am like many other 30 year olds trying to find my footing in this world and coming to the understanding that this is a moment in time that will pass and will be looked back upon only to be appreciated and found to be worthwhile. Because this moment, albeit fleeting and not that significant in the grand scheme of things, has gotten me rationalizing that my life has less to do about what lies ahead, but rather, dealing with what is right in front of me…and right now, that happens to be having only $35.00 in my checking account.

Did I mention that I am finishing up my Master’s Degree and teaching credential? I know, pretty exciting if I do say so myself. So, everyday I have the pleasure of working at a High School in Newport as a student PE teacher. And, I love it! My mentor teacher is amazing and the experience has been more than rewarding, it has solidified my love of teaching and fondness of enriching the lives of teenagers. That’s right I said teenagers, no, not children, teenagers. Don’t get me wrong; I love children, especially in regards to teaching at the dance studio, or hanging out with my nieces and nephews and my friend’s children, or even dreaming of the day when we have one (or more) of our own. However, working at the high school, I have the opportunity to challenge the work ethic and teenage attitudes of my students and that is a job that not many people would choose to have no less enjoy. Yet, I find that it is so much fun and this experience have given me a greater appreciation (not that I really needed anything bigger) for my parents, my family and upbringing.

It’s funny too…I was chatting with another teacher the other day and he was telling me that his most recent student teacher only lasted three weeks before deciding that teaching was not the calling he was given. Can you imagine? Three weeks! That astonished me. I suppose not so much about not being able to handle teaching teenagers in high school, I can totally wrap my head around how difficult that can be for some, but I was completely flabbergasted that this person went through the entire process of receiving his credential only to give up when he was near the end (student teaching is only 15 weeks). I mean seriously, can you imagine spending 25k on school only to not finish? Well, I suppose that many people do that, so maybe I ought to not be that surprised. Anywho, I digress…

I get to school around 7:30am, Monday through Friday. We are on block scheduling so I finish just before 2pm. Then I come home and have just a little over an hour to get ready to either go to Nordstrom (1 job) or to the dance studio (job 2, I consider student teaching to be my third job). So, if I’m at Nordstrom I usually get home just before 10pm, have enough time to stuff my face with dinner, say hello to my husband, shower and get to bed. If I’m at the studio, I get home around 9pm, make dinner, watch some TiVo’d bad reality show with my hubby, shower and get to bed. So, one would think weekends would be the saving grace to this crazy schedule, however, yep, I work on those too. Every Saturday and Sunday I work at Nordstrom and to be completely honest, I really love the job. I like my co-workers, love my boss and really enjoy the customers. I mean, hello, it’s Nordstrom, how can you not like being there? The dance studio is my second home and every time I’m there I feel complete, so these jobs that take up all my time, away from home and husband, I love. Yet, as much as I love them and am grateful that I am not only employed but that I am able to keep both jobs while student teaching (thanks to a great studio owner and manager who are willing to work with my teaching schedule) I can’t wait until I finish school, have my credential and with all the luck in the world and from my lips to God’s ears, have a fulltime teaching job come this September. It will be nice to share a schedule with my husband that allows me to be home in the evenings to cook dinner and hang out with him longer than an hour, as well as having weekends off to actually do things, like hanging out with our friends and family, as well as one another. In addition, I’m so ready to start a family. I want to be a mom and Tim to be a dad. I can’t wait. Yet, I also know that with the schedule I have now, this is not the time nor is it ideal, but let me tell you, I pray everyday that I will land that teaching job come September so our little family can start shortly after. Regardless of what may be terrible timing to hope (and search) for a job during what may be the worst time ever (California and teaching are not going hand in hand right now, let alone overall employment), I do believe that no one can predict the future and worrying about something one cannot foresee is a waste of time, energy and leads to stress that can truly be damaging to one’s entire being. So, again, I reiterate, from my lips (or ours, if you too wish for the same as myself) to God’s ears, the ideal is waiting for me once I commence my student teaching and graduate with both my Master’s in Education and have my California Teaching Credential in hand.

So, here’s what I’m going to do from here…I’m going to continue to stay positive and hang on to the belief that what is meant to be will be. I’m also going to look at that $35.00 that is sitting in my checking account and be grateful that I have more than $1.00 to my name as well as challenge myself to not spend 1 cent until the 20^th(let’s see…that’s 9 days, holy hell that’s a way’s away!). See, I don’t want to dip into savings or rely on my husband and I don’t have a credit card to fall back on, so although this shouldn’t be difficult, it’s kind of like dieting. When you restrict yourself, it seems to be the only thing you think of and crave…

Onward and upward…let’s see how this goes :)

Hey You Guys.....

2010-02-11T16:49:00.000-08:00

Have you missed me? Anyone even out there anymore? Probably not…but I honestly haven’t felt that I have anything of importance to share. No children to chat about or pictures to post, not really a whole lot happening aside from work, work and more work. So, I suppose I’ve been at a loss of what to post on this public forum of mine. Yet, then it hit me…who cares…I mean, really. The blogs that I love to follow aren’t really of anything that is ‘important’ rather I enjoy them because I like to read about the happenings that are taking place in my blogger friends lives. So, even though I don’t feel my life is anything exciting, I certainly have things that I can share with others, regardless of how uneventful they may be. So, this is my attempt at sharing my life with those that care to follow it. Enjoy.

*Anyone know the movie the title comes from??

Our House

2009-12-10T23:03:00.001-08:00

This is our house so far...still in need of a few window treatments (7 to be exact) in a couple rooms and paint in the Master Bedroom...but it's coming along nicely :)

Living Room from Front Door

Fireplace #1

Dining Room buffet

Dining Room Table

Other view Dining Room (Fireplace #2)

Bar Room (aka Tim's room)

Backyard...needs A LOT of work!! HGTV, please come fix our yard!!

Guest bathroom (aka, The 'W' room...all the towels have a W on them)...gotta love that monogram

Master Bedroom...hopefully will be repainted and window treatments installed soon

Office and sewing room

Guest bedroom

That's all folks...obviously decorated for Thanksgiving...going to take new pics with all our Christmas decorations up.

Guest Towels

2009-10-19T11:01:00.001-07:00

As a wedding gift, Tim and I received some amazing fluffy towels that I new instantly would find a home in our guest bathroom. You know, so all our guests can have the comfort and luxury of these amazing towels when they stayed with us. Well, last night I took a bath in our guest bathroom, as our master bathroom does not house a bathtub and while soaking in the bubbly goodness I looked longingly at those fluffy white towels and thought, why should only our guests enjoy them? So, I used one and it was Awesome.

My first project

2009-06-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

As soon as my machine, Serger and all the needed items to make up my sewing space is set up in the new house my first project that I plan to create is from Amy Butler...

I can't wait to make this huge bag. Great for all my dance teacher gear, or the beach, or whatever!

I can't wait to find some fabulous fabric....probably won't happen til late next month, but I'm sure looking forward to getting those creative sewing juices flowing again : )

Welcome

2009-06-24T09:46:00.000-07:00

Joining the masses

2009-06-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

Although I am in the throes of uprooting from one home to another, I have finally broken down and joined the masses, albeit a bit late. Yes, that's right, I have purchased the first two books in the Twilight series. I hadn't become all consumed as I was warned would happen, although as I just finished the first book, I am itching to start New Moon...especially as the 1st book ended with a sneak peak as to what was to come with the 1st chapter of New Moon...now I am on the edge of my seat : )

Costco had a deal on the series, although I wasn't about to fork over for all 4 books if I didn't become addicted to the first two. However, I have already asked my mama to pick up the last two on her next Costco visit so I can become engrossed and obsessed with it all : ).

While I am packing up my closet I plan to rent the movie and watch it...I'm just wondering how much packing I'll actually do with the movie playing? : )

A Lot has been happening...

2009-06-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

Well, first and foremost...

our townhouse sold!!

This has been quite a journey and not a very fun one, I must add! There is nothing fun about selling and buying a home. The ups and downs, twists and turns of emotions is ridiculous. Not to mention the crazy people who actually say to you, "don't become emotional"...really? Don't be emotional? Umm, sure, ok...I won't actually try and envision my life in this home we're thinking about purchasing. No, no, that would be ridiculous of me. I mean, why on earth would I want to feel as if I could raise my future family in this home? Why would I get so attached to something when my entire paycheck will be going to the mortgage?? So, no, I will do my very best in not becoming emotional at all! LAME!!

However, it is finally done! So, we've sold this home and we are packing all of our belongings. Moving truck will be here Friday to take all of our possessions to our new home in Orange County. Now, this part of the process, although time-consuming and physical labor isn't maybe my favorite thing to participate in, I'm am looking forward to and anticipating the fun... : )

It's Back!

2009-05-17T12:02:00.001-07:00

Numb

2009-05-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

I choreographed this dance for the Newport Harbor JV dance team...

This is the (very grainy) recording of the finished product after a 4 hour rehearsal...

Watch the mirror for the best view.

Again, not the best recording, dancers are beat and the dance still needs a lot of cleaning...
but all in all, pretty fierce!

Enjoy...

Britney Concert

2009-05-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

Becca and I had a fabulous time at the Britney concert...so much fun!!

Viva La Vino

2009-05-05T23:38:00.000-07:00

Wine that maketh glad the heart of man.

The Book of Psalms, 104:15

Prayers, Wishes and Appendages Crossed

2009-05-05T13:20:00.000-07:00

Please send good thoughts, hopes, wishes and prayers that everything with the sale of our house goes through and we get the house we put an offer on...I know that it may be wishful thinking to have it all work out just perfectly, but from our lips to God's ears, it may just all work out!!

picture via supersquadra.net

We're in Escrow

2009-05-03T22:53:00.001-07:00

Please keep us in your prayers and thoughts as we wait out the 45 day Escrow we are in!
If all continues to go well, we'll be out of our house the middle of June!

We even found a house we love and are (hopefully) putting an offer in on it tomorrow!

Bringing in the offers....

2009-04-28T23:28:00.001-07:00

The solemn tradition of burying St. Joseph in the earth began hundreds of years ago in Europe. During those times, an order of nuns prayed to St. Joseph (the patron saint of the family and household needs) when they needed more lands for convents. The Sisters were encouraged to bury their St. Joseph medals in the ground.

The medals evolved into statues, culminaing with the complete "Underground Real Estate Agent" Kit currently available. Today, thousands of homesellers and real estate agents nationwide continue this successful tradition; they are looking for a little divine intervention.

The St. Joseph Statue "The Underground Real Estate Agent" Kit was developed to assist you in continuing this tradition. The kit contains everything thing you need to successfully bury your own St. Joseph Statue. Be it fact or be it fiction, it's worked more than once.

Has anyone heard of this tradition? I think it just might work ; )

Circus

2009-04-08T10:54:00.001-07:00

Ya, my awesome hubby got me tickets to see Britney....

(for those who don't know, I'm a HUGE Britney fan. Yep, in all her craziness, I still love her!)

We're trying again...

2009-04-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

We put our house on the market last week!!

Hopefully this time around we can actually sell it and move!!

Please wish us luck and send us selling energy!! We need it!!

I'm the Emcee

2009-04-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

Last year I was a guest at my MIL's annual fundraiser luncheon for the Riverside Assistance League. This year, they were in need of an emcee for the event and I offered to do it...It was awesome!

So much fun!!

I'm hoping it becomes a yearly gig for me : )

This dress is sooo fabulous!! It was a bday gift from my mom!!

Birthday Dinner

2009-04-08T10:27:00.000-07:00

So, I have the greatest husband ever!! Last Saturday, in celebration of my big 3-0 he had made dinner reservations for us and my parents to go and have my favorite, Tepan!! And low and behold, when I walked to our table, all my friends were there!! I can't believe he had planned a surprise for me and I literally had no idea!! I always figure out surprises...not because I like to, I just chalk it up to my womanly intuition! And, I had NO idea about this at all!! It was awesome!!!

Here are some pics from the fabulous night:

April 5

2009-03-31T23:57:00.000-07:00

Sunday is my birthday!! I'm excited : ) !!!

Car Accident

2009-03-31T23:43:00.000-07:00

Last week I was driving home from work around 9:30pm and I was side-swiped on the freeway!! I'm completely fine, but my poor car has over $6000 worth of damage!! It certainly doesn't look like it has that much damage, but when they took off the bumper even more damage was found...

The guy who hit me was apparently driving Too Fast, Too Furious and misjudged the amount of space he had as he ran right into me!! Oh, and he is a whopping 19 years old!! Luckily I had a witness who was not only kind enough to pull over and make sure I was ok, but stayed until the highway patrol arrived. It was seriously the scariest thing ever as I have never been in an accident before...like I said, I'm thankfully, totally fine!!

Although the really awesome neon blue rental I have to drive for the next month pretty much blows!!!

Here are some pics of my poor little car:

Clippers Halftime

2009-03-31T23:36:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to take a group of my dancers to perform in the Los Angeles Clippers half-time show...it was such a wonderful event for these young girls!

They make me sooo proud!!

Here they are striking a 'hip-hop' pose with their teacher...seriously, how cute are these girls?!?

Our 1st Anniversary

2009-03-31T23:22:00.000-07:00

Well....it's been forever since my last post and so much has taken place!

On March 1st Tim and I celebrated our 1st wedding anniversary!

We spent the weekend out at the Temecula wineries and then at Pala Casino. We certainly didn't win any money, but had a wonderful time!!!

Cheers to many more years!!

Happy Heart Day!

2009-02-14T11:44:00.001-08:00

My new hair...

2009-02-11T19:29:00.000-08:00

I cut my hair off...
after 8 years of long hair, I was ready for a change....

This was my inspiration...

Ya, I'm pretty stoked!!

Tests!!!

2009-02-11T18:22:00.000-08:00

So, part of my school credential program requires me to take and pass both the CBEST and CSET...

I took the CBEST in October. So, nerve-racking having to study methods and concepts I hadn't visited in years! Not to mention the multitude of people who were telling me that it was super hard, even if you study....you know, everyone wants to share their friends of friends stories of how impossible or horrible something is...

So, after an entire Saturday spent inside a classroom at San Gabriel high school, taking the 6 1/2 hour test (oh ya, did I mention that I woke up with a head cold, fever and chills?? Ya, great, felt awesome...), I waited on pins and needles to find out if I had passed the test. Since it is only offered every other month, I had only 1 more testing date to pass the test, should I have failed, to retake the test before my schooling would be placed on hold. Sooooo....one month and a week later I was emailed my results...PASS!!! Woohoo!! Let's celebrate! I was soo excited! School could continue and I could officially substitute teach if I so desired....

Now, on to the CSET. The CSET is a state required test that one must take in order to become a teacher in CA. If you are planning on teaching Elementary school, you have to take the multi-subject CSET. If you plan on teaching middle or high school, the single-subject test is required. Since I plan on being a dance teacher in preferably the high school arena I am required to take the Physical Education CSET. Ok, let's get something straight here....I am a dancer!! I have never in my life played a sport...yet, the PE CSET is REQUIRED!!! Here's another little ditty about it,... across the board it is the HARDEST cset offered. Why, you ask? Hmmm, well, because there are 3 subtests and they can be about ANY POSSIBLE sport on earth! From all the ball sports, to Tae Kwon Doe, to weight lifting, wrestling, to freaking Bocci ball!!! Oh ya, and let's not forget all 3 dance questions it has! Ya, all sports!!! Did I mention that I am a dance teacher?? Just want to make sure we're all on the same page here... Another little thing about the Physical Education CSET, there are absolutely NO study books!! All other single-subjects have multiple study books available. None for the PE...of course! (by the way, I think I may write one...I see some serious money to be made with that idea of mine...don't steal it!) So, this is the hardest CSET available and again, I've talked to so many people, actual people this time, who have taken it two or more times and still had not passed. So, needless to say, I was a bit nervous going into this one. I was literally praying to pass just 1 test, just 1!!!

January 10 I took the 11 hour test! All 3 subtests; 6 essays and 150 multiple choice questions. When was the last time you wrote, wrote!, with a #2 pencil?? Ya, I know, right! 6 essays!! Crazy! I was asked to write about everything from how to do a proper sit-up and what muscles were being targeted (thank goodness I have my Personal Training Certification, helped me out on this essay) to the motor learning skills required for teaching a child how to dribble a soccer ball!! Uh huh...soccer!!! Anywho...after a month of waiting, I was delivered my results. Oh, the horror of having to take the test again! To, wake up the next morning feeling as though I was in a car accident because my neck could not move right or left, as it had spent the day before looking DOWN for 11 HOURS!!

To my surprise... I PASSED!!! ALL 3 TESTS!!!

AMAZING!!

So, if anyone needs information on how to correctly hold a baseball bat and the follow through method...I guess I'm here to help! : )

Nordstrom

2009-02-11T18:16:00.001-08:00

Don't you just love this store???

Me too....that's why I now work there!!!
I started today and it's awesome!!
If you need anything, I'd be happy to help you, come and visit!!

6th Picture Of The 6th Folder.....

2009-02-11T17:53:00.000-08:00

My fellow blogger and friend over at Fleming Family Circus, challenged me to go to my pictures file, go to the 6th folder and grab the 6th picture in that folder. Okay here goes:

This is my adorable nephew Gavin when he was just an itty, bitty baby!! Can you believe he is 4 years old now?!?! Ah, how time flies!!

I'm supposed to tag 6 people, but I just don't think I have very many followers...although I do read A LOT of other blogs...

So, I tag:
Kelly
Stephanie
Becky
Brianne
(sorry, her blog is private, that's why I didn't link)

or whoever else wants to take on this little challenge...it's kinda fun going through the picture folder and seeing what is in there....

Things Are Looking Up...

2009-02-06T05:27:00.000-08:00

If I've learned anything, it is when you are down in the dumps and feeling like crawling under a rock is your only option...
Sometimes you just need to reflect and change the course you are on...

Life is looking up!

New job starts Wednesday!!!!

Crawling Under a Rock

2009-01-21T11:44:00.001-08:00

If only it were an actual option, I would love to just go away and hide under a rock...
you know those days or should I say weeks?

Anywho, instead I'll just wish I were here, escaping the pressures and crap that is my everyday life...

anyone care to join me?

A Change to Come

2009-01-18T23:06:00.001-08:00

On Tuesday, our 44th president will be sworn in...I think regardless of your political views, the letter that this father wrote to his daughters is,...gosh I don't even know the words I'm looking for. It's beautiful, inspiring and I think it goes above and beyond in showing the love and compassion this man has for his family and children.

Dear Malia and Sasha,

I know that you've both had a lot of fun these last two years on the campaign trail, going to picnics and parades and state fairs, eating all sorts of junk food your mother and I probably shouldn't have let you have. But I also know that it hasn't always been easy for you and Mom, and that as excited as you both are about that new puppy, it doesn't make up for all the time we've been apart. I know how much I've missed these past two years, and today I want to tell you a little more about why I decided to take our family on this journey.

When I was a young man, I thought life was all about me-about how I'd make my way in the world, become successful, and get the things I want. But then the two of you came into my world with all your curiosity and mischief and those smiles that never fail to fill my heart and light up my day. And suddenly, all my big plans for myself didn't seem so important anymore. I soon found that the greatest joy in my life was the joy I saw in yours. And I realized that my own life wouldn't count for much unless I was able to ensure that you had every opportunity for happiness and fulfillment in yours. In the end, girls, that's why I ran for President: because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation.

I want all our children to go to schools worthy of their potential-schools that challenge them, inspire them, and instill in them a sense of wonder about the world around them. I want them to have the chance to go to college-even if their parents aren't rich. And I want them to get good jobs: jobs that pay well and give them benefits like health care, jobs that let them spend time with their own kids and retire with dignity.

I want us to push the boundaries of discovery so that you'll live to see new technologies and inventions that improve our lives and make our planet cleaner and safer. And I want us to push our own human boundaries to reach beyond the divides of race and region, gender and religion that keep us from seeing the best in each other.

Sometimes we have to send our young men and women into war and other dangerous situations to protect our country-but when we do, I want to make sure that it is only for a very good reason, that we try our best to settle our differences with others peacefully, and that we do everything possible to keep our servicemen and women safe. And I want every child to understand that the blessings these brave Americans fight for are not free-that with the great privilege of being a citizen of this nation comes great responsibility.

That was the lesson your grandmother tried to teach me when I was your age, reading me the opening lines of the Declaration of Independence and telling me about the men and women who marched for equality because they believed those words put to paper two centuries ago should mean something.

She helped me understand that America is great not because it is perfect but because it can always be made better-and that the unfinished work of perfecting our union falls to each of us. It's a charge we pass on to our children, coming closer with each new generation to what we know America should be.

I hope both of you will take up that work, righting the wrongs that you see and working to give others the chances you've had. Not just because you have an obligation to give something back to this country that has given our family so much-although you do have that obligation. But because you have an obligation to yourself. Because it is only when you hitch your wagon to something larger than yourself that you will realize your true potential.

These are the things I want for you-to grow up in a world with no limits on your dreams and no achievements beyond your reach, and to grow into compassionate, committed women who will help build that world. And I want every child to have the same chances to learn and dream and grow and thrive that you girls have. That's why I've taken our family on this great adventure.

I am so proud of both of you. I love you more than you can ever know. And I am grateful every day for your patience, poise, grace, and humor as we prepare to start our new life together in the White House.

Love, Dad

I love my country, my freedom and the hope that change will bring. I am looking forward to the future and everything that it entails and holds. I embrace this change with compassion and faith and truly believe that our purpose as humans is greater than anything we can imagine. I stand proud as an American and I am honored that a man who so expressively cherishes his family is the man who is to become the next leader of our great nation.

New Look

2009-01-18T00:23:00.000-08:00

So....what do you think of the layout??

Thanks Becky!!