Cherries and Lace

I AM

2012-01-30T14:02:00.000-08:00

So, I came about this idea in a very random and round about way. Watching Bruce Campbell talk about Burn Notice. Thinking about the god of awesome (AKA Campbell) and his tasty co star Jeffery Donovan made me feel like a teenager again when I was crushing on every other TV star. Long story short, I started thinking about where I thought I would be by now and where I want to be in the future. So I decided to commit to an "I am" piece like we did in 8th grade.

I AM

Beautiful
Smart
Random
Odd
Special
Sexy
Lovable
A good mom
Funny
Social
Kind
Hopeful
Excited
A dreamer
Different
Busy

I Will Be

Healthy
Sexy
Helpful
Spiritual
Kind
A good teacher
Active
The best mother I can be
Playful
Loving
A hard worker
Musical
Wise

I would challenge all of you (all four) to write one of these yourselves, on Facebook, your blog, in your journal, wherever. Focus on what you are proud of in yourself and what you want to be without thinking too much on how you are not yet. It is empowering and fun.

Snow daze

2012-01-18T06:01:00.000-08:00

It has been so hard to get any work done that last few days. With the cold snowy weather, being kept inside (I WILL NOT drive in the snow. Period.) I have been struggling to have ANY drive to get work done. I just want to lie on the couch and watch old movies.

The weekend itself ended up being great. Our friend was over Saturday night when things started freezing over so we had her spend the night. It was a blast. I haven't had a sleep over in ages! So much fun!

But come Monday I was tired and lethargic. Yesterday wasn't much better. I hope having it all clear out is going to help me. But who knows.

On a different note, William is adding more and more words to his vocabulary. He also loves singing. Normally nonsense but his favorite is "Open, shut them"

Open, shut them, open shut them (open and shut your hands)
Give a little clap, clap, clap (clap your hands)
Open, shut them, open shut them (open and shut your hands)
Fold them in your lap, lap, lap (fold arms)

He will do all the actions and sing the words. It's so darling to watch him because he is so excited and proud to have done it. He is communicating better every day. I am so proud of the little nut.

Get Healthy

2012-01-11T16:25:00.001-08:00

So as any of you who read my last post know, I have some weight loss goals this year (who doesn't). So I was very excited to find out about a multi-Ward (church for those non-Mormons out there) Triathlon! It is going to be in June or July, I can't remember, but we are going to be building up to it by training together and trying to help each other as relief society sisters.

I am really happy about this because it is always easier to do with a set goal in mind and with the help and support of others working along the same path. I can't wait to get to participate.

The only issue I have with the whole thing is that I will have to run (my least favorite of the tri) because my bike is falling apart and I have no place to practice swimming. But that is fine. I will get into shape, work hard and hopefully meet my minimum 20lbs lost by July 1st!

Also, anyone in the Salem area who is not in the wards participating or not a member are more than welcome to join in. It's all about getting and staying healthy and enjoying life!

New Years

2011-12-30T14:02:00.000-08:00

I have never been one for New Years resolutions. They are usually quick to come by and just as quickly forgotten. I am, however, for goals. I like starting with goals at the start of the year because it makes for an easier to follow timeline. Get done in a month, 6 months, whatever, it's just easier for me to follow.

This year I only have 1 main goal, and then little goals to help me attain it. I am posting this here because I hope it will help me keep to it.

My goal this year is: To become a better wife and mother.

A simple goal, predictable even, but important none the less.

I've broken that goal down into 10 sub goals.

Lose 20lbs by July 1st
Lose 40lbs by 2013
Get house organized and maintained
Clear out toys
Clear out jewelry
Clear out clothes and shoes
Get Vinny ready for Kindergarten
Start education plan/program with William
Become more spiritual
Create a stronger family

I wont bore you with the step by step plan I have laid out for each, but I do have them.

So, this is my goal/s for 2012. Hopefully, in one year I can say I truly am a better wife, a better mother and overall a better person through hard work and effort.

CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!

2011-12-09T00:58:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas time! Yippy! This weekend it's Santa and crafts with the family and then the parade! (So bummed when it was canceled last year)

I have a tree up and most presents taken care of. My house is all decorated inside and out. Even have my recipes planned out for treats for the rest of this month. I just LOVE this time of year!

Ack! I want to watch a million Christmas movies, I am listening to music all the time. Singing all the time. Vinny is having so much fun this year. He understands all about Santa now, so he is excited to see him.

The lights around town are just lovely. I got to go to the Star Trees lighting at Willamette and a wonderful music program after with a dear friend. It is just so much fun. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!

But you really want to know some of what I am most excited about? Our food drive at the shop. I LOVE seeing that barrel fill more and more each check out. I love seeing the kindness of our customers represented as they bring in more that the 4 cans to get a discount, just so they can help others.

And Vinny is learning from it. We have had many conversations about those less fortunate than us. We just finished going through our coats and set aside a few to take to Helping Hands. And I talked to him about how excited I am to be a part of our Relief Society activity this next week, where we are putting together stockings for people in shelters.

I want Christmas to be as much (if not more) about giving to others when we have been blessed with so much. We may struggle and sometimes it's hard to see how we are going to make it another month, but we have a roof over our heads, warm beds, food to eat and family and friends. Some are not so lucky, and it is our job as brothers and sisters of all the children of God, to serve and bless when we can. No matter who they are.

And what better time to teach that than the season of holidays from all different beliefs. And for those of us who are Christian, if we reflect on the story of Christ's birth; Angels appeared to lowly shepherds, and Kings came to worship Him. Him who was King, but born in a stall. From the wealthiest to the poorest, all were given the glad news.

What better was to celebrate than to help those in need, however we each can?

Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T08:24:00.000-08:00

Well, it's that time of year again. A time to think about and focus on what you are thankful for and help those who do not have as much as you.

Or at least that's how it was when I was a kid.

Maybe I just don't remember the Black Friday ads, maybe it's because my mom didn't get up at mid-night and stand in line for hours just to get 2 items at slightly better prices, but I remember the 4th Thursday in November being about thanks, not sales.

I mean, while BF is not my thing I understand that some people love it. That's fine, but I feel like 100 years from now BF will be the holiday and Thanksgiving will be forgotten all together. And that is not okay.

Vinny is so excited about today, not because of the parade or even the food, but because he gets to be with his cousins and family. He has been counting down the days all week, so excited to spend time with the people he loves.

And isn't that what today should be? I actually like Fred Meyer's ad for BF, they say to enjoy your Thanksgiving and "We'll be here bright and early for you on Friday." I know it's probably because they sell food too and they want to make money, but I still like it.

I don't want to be one of those whinny people who talk about how "commercialized" it's all become, but it has. And it's getting worse every year.

So I would like to challenge anyone who reads this to please make sure you spend today thinking about family and friends. Write down what you are thankful for and help your kids do the same. Let today be about thanks, and tomorrow can be all the sales you want. :)

As for me, I am thankful for my home, my family, the gosple of Jesus Christ which blesses me and my family daily. I am thankful for the peace I can feel even when the world is dissolving into chaos. For my handsome, intellegent little boys and the wonderful relationship I have with them. For my dad who has had to be 2 grandpas for my kids and borne that well. For Gary (Dan's dad) who led a life worth telling my kids about, and was the sort of man my son what's to know and be like, even without ever having met the man in this life. I am thankful for my husband who works 12 hour days to keep us in our home and fed, but still makes the time to be with our boys, so they know and love him. And makes time for me, so we can work out our hiccups and continue forward stronger and better.

I am thankful for the rights and freedoms I have in this country. I am eternally grateful to those who risk their lives and stay far from their families for far too long, to protect those rights. And just as grateful to their loved ones at home who allow them to go.

I am thankful for my life and all that is in it.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Movies

2011-11-07T14:14:00.000-08:00

Well, we just signed up for a Netflix trial, possibly keep, and I had a thought. I really don't care about most of these new movies. I mean, more new movies out than ever in my life and most of them are just ... I can't think of the word. I know they may appeal to a certain audience, but so many movies are bombing and they keep making the same tired plot over and over again.

Occasionally they bust out something amazing, like Tangled. But overall, Hollywood is loosing it. I am enjoying re-watching old movies that I kinda liked, more than I am enjoying the new ones.

I just wish we could go back to films that meant something. And maybe they would if we only got 1-2 new movies a month instead of a week.

Christmas!

2011-11-03T14:26:00.000-07:00

Hello all. It's confession time.

I....*deep breath* am addicted to Christmas! I am in love with Christmas, the atmosphere, the music, the stories, the good feelings all around. To be honest, December 25th is kinda a sad day for me, because it means Christmas is over. :(

I do try to wait until November 1st to start listening to music. I wait until after Thanksgiving to decorate and get out all my things. But the feeling of Christmas is intoxicating. I love going to craft bazaars (as early as this weekend) and browsing the decoration aisle at the store.

I do think stores should have decorations for sale in November, because I like to get set up early, so I have to have them before. but not in October, or August.

I just feel like there is a feeling of goodwill, love and happiness during the Holidays. The food is better, people tend to be nicer if you are not at a sale or the mall. Everything gets better at Christmas time!

So I wont play music in my shop when people are there, the stocking aren't hung until the tree is up AFTER Thanksgiving. The bed time stories will remain un-Christmas-i-fied until December1st. But I am Christmas-i-fied and proud of it!

Alone.

2011-10-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, time to vent some feelings.

I have always struggled with self esteem issues. And while I never let it completely control my life, it has led to depression and poor decisions through out the last 10-15 years.

After marrying Dan, things started getting better. I took pride in my appearance, I worked to look and feel great and really started to be able to ignore those little negative things that would pop into my head.

But it's starting to slip. A huge factor is that my average week consists of housework, childcare, the shop and an hour or so of socializing with my sister-in-law. That hour has become my haven. Because of the shops hours, Dan's 12 hour days and the need to have someone watch my kids, I don't get so socialize much at all.

Dan tries to help, but for him gaming on-line is socialization enough. Not me. And even when I can make it out to things, I always feel left out. Not that I think people are TRYING to ignore me, but I always feel on the outside. All the parents with kids my kids' age seem to get together a lot, they bond and they always have something to talk about. And when they talk, I have no idea what they are referencing.

I know a lot is how I perceive things, but when I leave an activity, I usually walk out alone, without anyone to say good-bye to. And it feels like no one notices. I know, I know, I am probably being a tad dramatic, but still, it's how I feel.

And it used to be, before I got my license, my mom and I would do things together all the time, but now, I have so much to do and she has so much typing (she does medical transcription from home) that we rarely get together without the whole family there.

And being me only makes it harder. I am an obnoxious, dark and strange person in a Mormon world, and I know that alienates me to a point.

Maybe it's wrong, and maybe it's not what God would have me be, but I am just not the sort of person who likes to talk about my testimony and personal scripture study in a social setting. I don't make temple trip plans when I am out, I don't do that whole "Molly Mormon" thing, and to be honest, I don't think I ever will. I watch anime and crime shows and I read books about vampires, dragons, necromancers and wizards. I game on my computer, I like movies with a little horror. I enjoy watching TV and movies that aren't rated G.

I am sure there are more out there like me, and maybe it's the whole group setting thing that makes people like me think they need to be something else, but it is hard. I have one LDS friend who I really get along with on the forms of entertainment level, but given she has no kids and is in school, it can make it hard to get together outside of VT visits.

And with non-LDS people it can be even harder, I don't watch rated R movies, I don't drink and I don't go to bars for live music. I do have kids at 26 (most of my non-member friends do not) so I can't be out until 2 in the morning. I'm not in school, I run a business and I have a 3 bedroom house with a yard I need to try and maintain, not an apartment.

Okay, pity party is done. I just had to get it out there.

Recipe share time

2011-09-25T18:07:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am sharing my AWARD WINNING (thank you 4th ward!) Hidden Veggie Chili. Simple, yummy and packed with healthy foods while not having any chunks for picky eaters to complain about. Enjoy!

Hidden Veggie Chili

* WARNING *

Measurements are not perfect, I am a by sight cook and am guessing. Go with your preferences.

2lbs Lean ground beef

2 cans chili beans

1 large can tomato paste

1 large bag of spinach

3 cups chopped sweet peppers

1 medium-large onion, chopped

1-2 cups carrot juice

2 cloves garlic

½ tablespoon Cayenne pepper

¼ tablespoon curry powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Cook ground beef on medium until well cooked, drain thoroughly

Mix spinach, peppers, onion, garlic and about 1 cup carrot juice in a blender until smooth (add more juice if necessary)

Mix blender mixture, meat, tomato paste and chili beans in a pot on medium-low heat (or a crock pot)

Let chili cook for 3-4 hours.

During the last 15-20 minutes do a taste test and see if more spice is needed, I like to see if it needs a little more sweetness and use carrot juice for that.

Serve in a bowl or over a backed potato and enjoy!

Racism

2011-08-31T10:57:00.000-07:00

Websters Dictionary defines racism as:

1.

: a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race

: racial prejudice or discrimination

So, Can anyone tell me where it says "Anyone who dislikes something that might affect people of another race? Because I'm not seeing it.

I am so sick of being called a racist because I am for welfare reform, or because I don't agree with President Obama, or simply because I am a registered republican. It is so dang irritating!

The worst part is how, no matter what I truly think or feel, I am racist, and no matter what "they' do, they aren't. Like how the Congressional Black Caucus and tell someone that if they are white they are never getting in, but if I headed up some White Caucus and said no blacks the ACLU would be coming after me with eyes blazing!

How on earth is that fair or right? And how on earth are we supposed to get beyond racism with bull hockey like that going on? Specialist groups for one race or against a race. How about instead of working on dividing us into groups based on our differences we work on represent everyone.

I keep hearing people talk about how we need to help minorities do better in schools and college. The current method is to single them out and throw money at them, but that hasn't been working very well. How about we get the balls to look at them and say "This is why you/your child is failing." Quit throwing money at it.

Why can't we get the parents to take responsibility for their kids, "Hey, you don't get involved with your kids education, they wont do as well and it is on your head, not the teachers, not the district, not the state."

And as a society let's donate to and start programs that give kids a place to go and study after school, programs that give them something more, dance, music and art, to drive their lives. But keep them responsible for themselves.

I cannot stand the idea of a kid getting into a college because of their race, because the college has some "racial quota" to meet. It should be based on grades and effort. Race should have nothing to do with college acceptance!

Sorry, I know it was a little scattered, but I had to get it off my chest. ACK!

Toddlers, tiaras and total digust!

2011-08-03T14:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I am so glad I don't have a daughter. I was reading Good Housekeeping this morning and they had a very long piece on young girls and beauty pageants, alla Toddlers and Tiaras. And may I just say, I am now ill.

$3,000 for a custom dress? Hours in hair and make up and hair extensions? Thousands spent to win a stupid tiara and a few hundred bucks? What is wrong with these mothers?

And I am talking about the little girls, like 10 and under, as young as a few months old! These girls are winking and blowing kisses at the judges. Like the article says, while these little cuties have no idea what their really doing, it is teaching them that flirty behavior gets them what they want. Another point they made that I had never thought of was that it is teaching them a sexual action without any emotional connection. Causing a disconnect between flirting and any real feelings. It's just a tool.

And it's not just pageants. Have you seen the clothes marketed to kids? Push up padded bikini tops for 8 year olds? "Teacher's Pet" on KIDS UNDERWEAR? Seriously? And that video awhile back with the 4 or so year olds doing a Coyote Ugly-Esque dance routine at a mall? Everyone thought it was "So cute" and harmless, but what do you tell those kids when they dance like that at 14 at a dance with boys drooling after them? Used to fine, why not now?

And while I am glad I don't have a daughter with friends going through all this, I am worried because I have 2 boys who are going to be exposed to this stuff at a younger age as well. And if this is how the kids Vin's age are acting now, how bad will it be in 10 years?

Been awhile

2011-07-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been out for awhile, had a lot going on, But now I have a little time and thought I would update you all (aka one of you) of what's going on with the Rodgers clan.

William is almost walking, cruising around like a nut. But he just wont take that step by himself. We were worried that his legs might not be strong enough to walk, but he is proving that theory wrong. I think my mom is right, he's just lazy.

Vinny is doing really well with his "homeschooling". We are doing spelling words every week and math and reading. He really is an amazing little learning machine. He asks me for "school time" and is sad when we're done. It's so nice because he seems to have inherited Dan's love of learning and not my love of goofing off.

Actually, we just finished having him read 5 short/simple stories and do 4 little assignments. He absolutely loved it. He only stopped when I changed to math, which he sometimes loves but not today.

The rest of things are going well, busy at the shop, working on the house. Oh! I am working out on the Wii. Less than 1 week and I have lost 3.3lbs doing 30 minutes of cardio a each night, normally before dinner to help with digestion. Perhaps a little TMI but I am proud of it. Dan has lost 5-6lbs this past week as well.

We haven't being do much outside our daily schedule, which has really been getting to me. I am minorly depressed and I am usually able to get out of my funks without meds or anything. But this time I am struggling. I think I need to mix it up a little. Luckily tonight is a fun activity with the RS sisters, tomorrow is a "book unveiling" for a friend and next month there are activities and such going on that should help break up the monotony and help me out a bit.

And I think that's about it. At least for now.

Is it over yet?

2011-06-27T23:04:00.000-07:00

I am so ready for summer to be over. I know that sounds awful, because I was excited to get some nice dry weather, but all I am getting is heat. Muggy nasty heat.

I have no pool, nor the money to buy one or go to one regularly. Neither of my boys will play in the sprinkler with me (and I look stupid doing it alone) With the shop and the boys I can't go to the coast on a whim.

I don't have time to go to the parks with water features when it's warm enough, it's always early morning or late night.

So pretty much all I get to experience is a un-air conditioned shop, a 70 degree house. Oh, and a poor little boy whose eczema flair in the humidity.

So I am ready for the fall to kick in.

Well.....

2011-06-22T14:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I feel like I should be writing something here.

I guess I will ramble on about Vinny and his homework. This kid is amazing, it just stinks that he is no 5 until December, he can't start Kindergarten until next year. But this kid is on fire! He is flying through home-school Kindergarten level assignments, he is doing reading, writing, math (basic addition and subtraction IN HIS HEAD!) Yesterday we spent an hour on a work book about his name, address, family, etc.

He is just doing so well, and that hour? I had to stop him, he wanted to keep going but needed to take nap. It's just crazy. I am starting to do a lesson a day, quiz him randomly, and he seems to be loving it.

He read the first few pages of a simple book at the library yesterday. He is sounding out words with minimal help. I just don't want this love of learning to stagnate, which I am very sure will happen if I wait until next year. Most certainly will happen if he goes into the public school system as it stands now.

It's hard, as my mom points out, I am no teacher. I have no formal training, but it seems like those with the training are being hog tied by government and union garbage. It seems like Oregon at least, is more worried about numbers moving forward than they are about what those kids know or how they will be in the world when they leave.

So if anyone has advice or tools they are willing to share, please let me know!

Motherhood

2011-06-13T22:24:00.000-07:00

Motherhood is a trial and a blessing all in one. Since Vinny was born 4 1/2 years ago I have been through more drama and more stressed that the previous 21 years. But I have also found greater joy, greater happiness, the best laughs and the best memories.

I just found my pregnancy journal from Vinny the other day and I have been having so much fun going on long lost memories. Vinny is enjoying it to. We also started the Salem Library reading program so I am spending a minimum 30 minutes daily reading with them. I try to do it together as much as I can because Will enjoys it more with Vinny. I also have to do it on my bed so Will can't get away! Crazy little bugger.

I am excited for summer because it means more time outdoors with the bug-a-boos and less time in on the computer. I have actual found myself escaping our stuffy office as much as possible. Even if it is just into our room with the windows open to let in the breeze while I'm folding laundry.

Okay, this was a bit rambly, but I just wanted to get those thoughts out there.

Life

2011-06-12T20:52:00.000-07:00

In the last year 4 people I have know and loved have passed on. None were young, which is part of what scares me. These were people who were always there, and now they are gone.

First it was my Great Aunt Cloda, the next week it was her sister Virginia. The week after that my Dad's mom, Grandma Waring passed away. We had a long rest until this week when my Mom's dad, Grandpa Lynn passed away.

I think the biggest worry for me is that my Grandma Joy lost 2 sisters and now her husband, and considering that last time death came in three... Well, I will be very glad when the next 2 weeks are over. And few months.

I know it's a really negative view, but I can't help but be anxious about it.

And so it begins.

2011-05-24T12:38:00.000-07:00

The shoving, pushing, lying, back stabbing and all things headache inducing has begun. Elections. Ugh.

I keep hearing about this guy or that guy who is running. I think it is safe to assume Dems wont be jumping the OB ship in 2012, so anyone the GOP presents is going to be facing off with the master of "You're racist" himself.

I am not looking forward to another year and more being told how evil I am because I am a Conservative. Or how I am a racist because I don't like Obama (which is funny, because the possible candidate I like best so far is Herman Cain, who is black).

I am not looking forward to watching viable Tea Party candidates getting the shaft from the GOP because they are more worried about getting someone they can control than they are about the people of this nation.

I am fearful of the candidates who have officially thrown their hats in the ring, if we don't get something better, we might as well not have an election next year, it will be a waste of our time.

I mean, I like Romney and all, but I have accepted that he wont ever get anywhere close to me voting for him because people across the nation get to vote him out before I even get my ballot in the mail. Messed up system, letting states decide before us and leaving Oregon with a vote that rarely counts in the primaries.

I wish I could just shut it all out and not think about it until October 2012, but that is not my personality. I feel I should be better informed. I should look into the people and what they stand for before the lying ads come out.

We learn so much about the candidates, from their own lips, in the beginning stages because they are still testing the waters, seeing what people like and hate, and planning every speech to make every promise and some how, no promises at all.

We are facing something huge here people, whatever your political stance, you can't deny that politicians lie, they cheat, they bribe and take bribes, they ignore the people who got them in power and they think they are above the laws they force upon us. We have a chance to change that. Every election we have that chance, and most years we fail to do anything, re-electing the same liars and cheaters, stating the attitude "Better the devil you know than the devil you don't".

Well, I am calling America out. Screw the devil you know! If he/she is a devil, then why keep them in power? America, let's show Washington DC and each and every state that we are NOT sheep. We are not mindless, stupid followers. We are THE PEOPLE of the United States of American, and we are cleaning house!

Harry Potter

2011-05-16T17:00:00.000-07:00

So I started reading the Harry Potter books again (I only got through book 1 and half of book 2 when they came out) and I am hooked! Just started reading book 4 this morning. They are WAY better than I remember. I mean, they aren't as good as some of the classics and some of my favorites, but they aren't targeted at 25 years old mothers, they are fantastic for kids. I haven't read this much in awhile, I have been missing it. It gets the creative juices flowing, and I have picked up on writing some of my stories that have being neglected. It feels good to get back into the swing of things like this!

CHERRIES!

2011-05-10T12:25:00.000-07:00

I wish Torrid were cheaper, because their clothes are to die for! Latest collection? http://www.torrid.com/torrid/Collections/LookBook/KitschyKeen.jsp?sortType=1&prodType=4

SOOOO much cute stuff. Why is it that most stores think all plus sized woman want to dress like mothers of the bride? Or think wearing bags are sexy? Why can't JMS at Wal Mart make more than 3 cute things per collection? Honestly, I am loosing weight, but I will be plus sized for awhile, why can't I dress cute?

By the sweat of my brow....

2011-05-09T16:08:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling extremely house-wifey as of late. I am trying to sew more, both with my machine and by hand (which, while hard is actually quite fun on small projects!). I am also making things more and more by scratch. Like butter, a little cream, a lot of shaking and wah-la! I have homemade, yummy, custom butter! I also baked some bread, from scratch! And I am trying to bake a fresh loaf semi-regularly, even if it's just a loaf of Rhodes whole wheat from the freezer, it's still tastier and fresher than regular white bread.

Add to that all the hand washing I was doing when the weather was clear, and line drying..... I just feel good being all house-wifey!

6 years!

2011-05-03T13:31:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen: This Thursday, May 5th, is more than just another excuse for people to drink themselves into a stupor or gorge themselves on Mexican food. You see, this Thursday will mark year 6 (yes, SIX!) that Dan and I have been married.

And what an eventful 6 years. On this day in 2005 I was just engaged, living at home with a basic job and few responsibilities. Only 2 years later, I was a mom. Working for T-mobile and trying my hardest to not go insane. Now, 4 years after that I am the mother of 2, small business owner and home owner. I am even a partial computer tech! I can do things I never thought I would be capable of, and do them well! Things are so different from just a few years ago.

And I wouldn't trade it for the world. Some times I wish I had had a little more time before I was married, to get to know me better, would have saved Dan and I some grief, but hey, I may have missed him and I wouldn't want that at all.

Osama Bin DEAD

2011-05-02T17:12:00.000-07:00

Well, what an eventful evening yesterday! Osama Bin Laden is dead and gone, two to the head. Everyone is celebrating and exciting. But while I am happy to know he is no longer in charge, am I the only one thinking the party is a little premature?

I mean unlike, say Hitler, Osama was not the head of the whole thing, he was not their main leader, they think Allah is heading their operation. And Allah is a god, he cannot die or be caught. So is the war on terror any closer to being done? Really?

New layout!

2011-04-29T14:08:00.000-07:00

Hi ya'll.

Now that I'm back to posting more regularly, I decided I needed to up the pretty factor. I don't know how many of you have tried to find a decent free template, but it can be hard! So I made my own. Took over an hour this morning to get what I wanted, but I did it! I couldn't be happier!

I was hoping to give it some flair and femininity while being true to me, which is always nice!

Anyways, I have been having a blast with a new little super food called Quinoa. Now I don't know how many of you have tried it, but I am in love. If you don't know what it is, it's a grain that cooks up a lot like rice. With the texture of tiny frogs eye pasta. It is yummy hot or cold, with fruits and veggies. It can be a side, or main dish. I'm in love.

Here are my 2 favorite recipes so far:

Side dish/Salad

1 Cup Quinoa (Prepared as directed on packaging) Let cool

1 small tomato, finely chopped

Half a cucumber, finely chopped

Garlic (I like to use garlic paste, it's finer than I can chop)

Salt and pepper to taste

Toss it all together and serve cold, I like it for lunch

Breakfast

1 cup quinoa( Properly prepared) Keep hot

1 cup milk (I like to do 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream. It's richer)

A sprinkle of cinnamon and ground cloves

Honey or Agave to sweeten to taste

Fresh berries/peaches/apples or any other fruit

Toasted nuts if you like

Heat milk with Quinoa in a pan until warmed through, add spice and sweetener, ad fruit last, let cook for 2-3 minutes for softer fruit, remove from heat for fresher.

Any other recipes would be welcome, share 'em in the comments!

My kid is weird

2011-04-25T13:21:00.000-07:00

Vinny is an odd duck. While at times he is a normal 4 year old boy, playing Star Wars and trains, other times he is just plain strange.

Example: Last night he was watching The Simpsons when a commercial came on. I'm in the other room and hear "Up next on the 10 o'clock news" and I hear him say "YEA!" and from that moment on he kept talking about the 10 o'clock news.

Often times the nut will ask me to turn off PBS Kids and turn on "The 8 o'clock News" because he loves watching what's going on. And sometimes, when he wakes up early enough, he'll watch BBC News on OPB with me. And he LOVES it!

The other day he played tsunami in the front yard, which meant he explained how Japan was flooded and people lost their homes.

I just find it so strange that he likes this so much.

So my boy's a nut.

50 Parks by October

2011-04-20T13:02:00.000-07:00

One of my big goals is to spend more time outdoors with my family. My way to make sure that happens? I have made a list of 50 parks in the Salem Keizer area and I am going to make sure Vinny makes it to ever last one by the time October rains roll around. That averages 2 per week, or with Oregon whether in mind, 3 parks a week.

We already have Riverfront, Royal Oaks, Unnamed park in South Salem, Weather Street Park and Hillview City Park under our belts! I am so excited!

Vinny is loving it too, because playgrounds rock!

If anyone has any ideas for the area, let me know, because I still need to weed out the no playground parks, so I will probably need a few more. Especially in West Salem.

Also, if anyone wants to join me and the boys, let me know. Vinny likes finding friends to play with, even if he's never met them!

Beautiful Day.

2011-04-18T23:37:00.000-07:00

Today probably the best day of the year so far! Busy, tiring and all manner of crazy, but such a great day! Started out with getting to sleep in, which was great, and then dishes. Then I got on to the laundry.

I am so far behind on laundry, it's not even funny, but I made a HUGE dent in today. I started a load in the washer and then decided to hand wash a load in the tub. When the tub load was done I guess I was just so into the whole homemaker thing I decided to hang it up on a line in the back yard.

By 1:30pm I had 3 loads washed and hanging out to dry (and my hands were KILLING me from wringing out all those clothes) and another soaking in the tub. Add to that 2 loads folded and put away from the washer and dryer and one load in each waiting to go.

When it started to rain I got out and took it all inside, but most of it was just barely damp at all! So while the last dryer load was running, I mowed the front lawn and took down the Christmas lights. When that was done I loaded the line clothes into the dryer and finished them up and got them put away.

With all that done I got out and cleaned the grill (My fabulous husband went and got the propane tank filled after his doctors appointment today) and made burgers! The first of the year! And some grilled bell peppers and zucchini for me!

Finally settled down to eat, folded some more laundry, put Vinny to bed with a story, got Will fed, got the LAST load of laundry in the dryer and started on my first attempt at homemade, soft-baked, sugar cookies! Woot! They turned out great, better than I had expected!

So now I am enjoying some cookies, relaxing on the computer and waiting for the very last load to be done so I can fold, put it away and go to bed.

What a day!

2 weeks later

2011-02-22T14:40:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been two weeks and William is doing great! You would never know he even had surgery. He looks good and it progressing just fine. And one Friday he can start playing on straddle toys again!

Things have been crazy lately, with helping Will recoup, business pouring in, Dan still working full time for the state and Vinny becoming too smart for all our good we hardly have time for anything else.

Speaking of Vinny, he's started going to my sister-in-laws daycare, which is really more preschool than daycare, once a week. And he is loving it! He has such a blast playing with them all day, and it is giving him more socializing opportunities, which is wonderful for everyone.

Also, the 4 year old pain in the rear is almost potty trained. I know, I know, 4 and not potty trained! What the heck? This kid would not for the life of me use the dang toilet until recently. He is prefect with going potty, but #2 is still an issue. We are working on it and hoping the kid will get it together sooner than later.

Back on the blog

2011-02-08T14:03:00.001-08:00

Hi to anyone who views this anymore. So... No one! :) I am trying to get this started back because there has been a lot going on in my family, my state and my country.

Family first. As anyone who knows me knows by now, my 10 month old son had surgery last week. Doernbecher's was amazing, the staff were absolutely fantastic. In particular there was Twila and Emma. Twila was "the numbers lady" who took his stats and all that prep. She could have just come in and taken the numbers. Instead she showed William everything that she was going to use and explained to HIM how they worked. Will was just mesmerized. She showed him the sounds the machine made, let him place with the toe sensor before putting it on him. She cooed and played him, he brightened up whenever she came in.

Emma was our other main nurse. She explained everything to us and even got Will his last drink before the deadline. She made us feel comfortable and at easy. Everything was just fantastic.

The wait was long, of course, but the waiting room was comfortable, the view was amazing. They had free wifi (Dan and I both had our laptops) so we got to check out e-mail and play some on-line games.

The whole time I felt calm and assured. Our Doctor, Aaron Bayne was simply wonderful from day one! I KNEW he would do everything he could for our little guy. And he did. After hours of waiting he came out and told us that it was 100% success. He said everything was now in the right place and that our little trooper was doing fantastic.

An hour later we got to go into the recovery room. Once he was waking up I got to hold him. Once he started he was wide awake and we got to leave the recovery room and move into our own little corner of the hospital. Within an hour we were able to take him home.

I have to say, while having a baby go under the knife is never ideal, things went swimmingly. I could not be more pleased with all involved.

Big Boy Moments

2009-02-24T10:09:00.000-08:00

Man, I need to get better about posting on here. Anyways, Vinny is getting so big. Yesterday he came into me and told me "change a bum" took me into where we keep his pull ups and pulled one out, he had just pooped and told me! I am so happy, one more step to potty training! The today he asked for breakfast (never used that word before) and pointed at the cereal, when I was getting it ready he went to the silverware drawer and tried to get a spoon, too short though. He is talking more than crying, he says please and thank you. Oh and "shake a bootie". He loves our Wii (Yes, we of all people got a Wii) and loves to pretend along with us as we play. It is just so precious when he does it. He shakes everyone's hands, says hi and can have a conversation with people, and will talk to strangers if Dan and I talked to them first. he certainly isn't shy. I am just so proud and wanted to share!

Okay, it's been awhile but

2009-01-21T11:30:00.000-08:00

I have a cute little bit about my baby boy. He has started making us stop everything and "Pray food" when ever he has a snack. He'll fold our arms for us too.

Then, last night my dad and Dan gave me a blessing (I've had an ear infection for a week), Vinny was quite with arms folded the ENTIRE time. My dad peeked when he was quiet for so long. I couldn't believe it!

He loves saying prayers and singing at church. He "conducts" the music during sacrament meeting. It is so darling how he has taken to it.

Voting

2008-10-21T06:23:00.000-07:00

This morning I sat down with my ballot and voters guides. I looked over all the candidates, I thought over all the ads I have seen, the debates, the websites and the personal opinions of my family and friends.

I could only fill out 3 spots on that ballot. And they were not the big 3.

I simply cannot bring myself to vote right now. I want to just rip up my ballot and toss it away. But I live in a country with a vote for a reason, and I need to uphold my end of the bargain.

When it comes to president, I was always mad at people who voted for John Kerry simply because he wasn't Bush. I have always thought it is a stupid way to make a choice, "well, he isn't the other guy" but that is exactly how I feel about McCain. To me that is the only reason I see voting for him, he isn't Obama. I mean, sure I agree with some of the ideas he has for this country, but on the things that really matter to me, on the things I think are most important for this nation, I just want to beat him upside the head!

And I have considered 3rd party candidates, but the only ones close to what I believe in call this country the "American Empire" and tout a isolationist mentality similar to those who wanted us to stay out of WW2. I don't want that! I don't want McCain, I don't want Obama, I don't want Smith, I don't want Merkley, I don't want Shrader and I don't want Erickson!

I feel like writing in "Jesus Christ" or something similar, I want to write in Mitt Romney for pres, since, as you know if you have read my other post, I never got to vote for my candidate due to the f***ed way the nominees can be kicked out before every state gets a freaking vote. I wish I was 17 again, just so I wouldn't have to think about it.

America is going to Hell in a hand basket and if we look at our voting options we just might see why.

I WANT THIS!

2008-10-04T14:22:00.000-07:00

This is so cool! It is a bike and a stroller, they hook together and look all cool. Plus it's all forward facing so your kids (or your puppy!) can see where you are going, plus all the space can be used for shopping and such! Only real issue is that it costs almost $4,000.00. I bit too much for me. I hope this becomes super popular and cheaper versions will come out.

http://www.triobike.com/

John McCain

2008-09-26T05:53:00.000-07:00

AAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGG! I could scream right now. "Until this bail out is figured out, I wont do anything to prove I should be president." I mean come on, does he think he can't stand up to a debate with Obama? Cause that is what it sounds like. Maybe he should have Palin do it, she is more the nominee than he is anymore.

Not to mention these bail outs are absolute crap! I mean, it's the Liberal mentality, "Oh crap, I made stupid and in some cases illegal decisions" Oh Mr.Ceo, don't worry, you shouldn't be held responsible for your actions, let me bail you out with the hard earned money of our taxpayers! Seriously. Or bailing out those who took adjustable rate mortgages and now can't pay. "Oh, you made a poor choice with the knowledge that this could happen, and you could lose your home. Here, we the gov have so much money lying around..." No, let's not help the people who got into something they could afford and then were hit with losing a job, or a health crisis, who are trying to do right by their choices, they should have to go it alone. But Dumb Butt over here who ignored the potential risks should get it all.

This election is making me sick, I think one of the noms is an idiot who could potential destroy this country and everything that makes us great and the other will continue the idiot policies I am ranting about and maybe die in office leaving the Presidency to someone I think I would like as a person but I am simple unsure of her abilities. I almost want to NOT vote, but that is against what I stand for and I can't just give up. Honestly though, come November I will mark that ballot while trying not to puke.

planes, trains and automobiles

2008-09-19T12:20:00.000-07:00

I have decided on a theme for Vinny's 2nd birthday but I need some help. Planes, trains and automobiles is the theme but I am having a hard time finding generic things in those categories. If you see anything or have any ideas, please, pass them along! Thanks!

Politics!

2008-09-13T17:38:00.000-07:00

Gag a freaking maggot! I am so sick of everyone, I am not a fan of Michael Savage but I agree with his idea to move the election up to early October, like the 4th? I would love to just have it over with. I am especially ticked as I really don't like either candidate or what they say they will do in office and I don't think either is very trustworthy. I think McCain will drop his own morals to appease the other side of the aisle and I think that Obama will outright ignore the other side unless they agree with him. Neither is a quality I think we should have. And a huge point of importance to me is abortion and neither can be pinned down on what they feel and it uber pisses me off. I can't stand all the screaming to cover the truth or the mindless info we are getting, like the cost of the prospective first ladies outfits, or who matched better. It is absolutely idiotic to focus on that. Or how the Dems are saying experince means nothing when if comes to Obama but everything with Palin or Rebs saying the exact thing only reverse persons. Does it matter or doesn't it? I think it does but not as much as history. If you have only been in office a year but changed the place for the better you are better off than a person in for 100 years who passes nothing but crap on to be voted on. People need to prove to me what thry will do and have done and not what they say in pretty speeches.

Music

2008-08-26T16:19:00.000-07:00

Vinny is getting more and more interested in music. The other day I heard him playing his 4 key piano and it almost sounded like a tune, he was obviously trying to make music. We are hoping he has his Grandpa Gary's gift to play by ear because neither Dan or I can play music so we can't teach him very well.

Diversity

2008-08-22T16:39:00.001-07:00

I might alienate a few people with this, but I can't help it. Diversity as it is defined and treated in the world today is evil (as in I want to bash it with hammer as it runs around comically avoiding me).

My husband recently was hired by the state and had to go through some diversity training. He brought home the packet so I could see why he wanted to jump out a window after the first 2 minutes. What they called "Diversity" was anything but. It pretty much stated that those with "traditional" values, morals and ideals need to not only acknowledge but accept and embrace other peoples values even if they outright mock their own. On the other hand those with the aforementioned "mocking" values are not asked to do anything about the "traditionals". (T is now traditional and M is mocking). The feeling the packet gave was that Ts are wrong and you (M) are right and can do what you want and they need to get with the program. Um, how is that diverse? Shouldn't everyone have to respect everyone?

I mean, I am all for harmony and respect. My last supervisor at T-Mobile was openly gay. He had pictures of himself with his BF and his BF's daughter on his desk just as I had pics of Dan and myself. I didn't care. He knew I was LDS, he knew The Church's beliefs on homosexuality and we got along fine. We chose that it was not our place to judge (or vocalize judgement) at work. We would just let it be as we mutually respected the other's right under law and heaven to act as they chose and it did not affect our jobs respectively.

But if I was told I needed to accept and celebrate his homosexuality because I was wrong and closed minded, but he was told my beliefs meant nothing and to ignore them I think I might have become violent.

Here is a little article I really like from Glenn Beck's Newsletter. It is called arguments against idiots: Diversity and I like the points it made.

The Argument Against Idiots: Diversity

August 21, 2008 - 10:46 ET

How to win the argument de jour with logic and facts

Your browser does not support inline frames or is currently configured not to display inline frames.

The issue:

"Diversity"

What the liberal whiners say:

'What we need in America is to celebrate our diversity, the more diverse we can get, the better'

'Who's to say that a "melting pot" is better than a nice potpourri?

'Multiculturalism is the key to an enlightened society'

'You're dangerous! There is NO PLACE in America for your kind of thinking!'

Your winning, logical, reasoned arguments

1. Why? I mean, I know that shocks you right down to your Birkenstocks, but seriously, didn't we used to seek unity, not differences? Didn't we look for commonality? Weren't we at one time in this nation, considered a "melting pot"? We were encouraged to come together with our different backgrounds, and blend in to form a unified society. How can it be a good or desirable thing to promote separate languages and cultures within the same country?

2. I'm to say. Try eating potpourri. It won't go down real well.

3. The ancient Romans could tell you about the enlightenment of diversity and multiculturalism…well, they could, had it not destroyed them and their civilization. A little closer to our time, ask the Yugoslavs how well the multicultural thing worked out. Actually you'll have to side-step the rocket attacks from the break-off Republics of Serbia and Croatia, and dodge the incoming fire between the ethnic Albanians and Kosovars; the Bosnians and Slovs. Plus diversity has worked wonders in South Essetia, Georgia and Russia hasn't it? I mean, with the possible exception of the 3rd world war it threatens to touch off. How about the diverse region of Quebec? Other than wanting to secede from the rest of Canada, that seems to be going quite smoothly. And has anyone ever heard the term "Balkanized" or "Balkanization"? The terms come from the very divers region of the Balkans.

4. I see. So, you worship at the altar of diversity, only as long as it doesn't diverge from YOUR point of view? I guess that explains the effort to reinstate the "Fairness Doctrine" to shut down talk radio?

If you agree with that or what I have said you should check out this essay by Professor Robert P. George called (I think) Self-Mastery, Academic Freedom and the Liberal Arts, if you can't find it I can e-mail a portion of it to you.

Olympics and Idaho

2008-08-11T20:28:00.000-07:00

Wow, I haven't posted in a month! Well, 2 weekends ago we went to Idaho, so I thought I would post some pictures and tell you some of what we did. My cousin's new wife had a baby the second day of the reunion (that re-onion is why we went), Gabe. My aunt and uncle were VERY excite, it's their first grandchild. Also my other aunt made Vinny shirts to wear each day that said "Vincent Twice, Vincent Twice" (for anyone who doesn't know, Vinny was named for my cousin and they share the same birthday) The quote is from an old Sesame Street sketch. They were very cute.
Playing Ladder Golf
In bapa and papa's trailer
Playing in the grass
Daddy and Uncle Tom playing ladder golf
Sleeping in the van, I did that a lot! :)

On our way back we stopped by Malad Gorge near Twin Falls, ID. These are some of the gorgeous pictures we took. We also stopped at Multnoma Falls, which was fun as I haven't been there in at least 6 years. It was a lot of fun.

Now, on to the Olympics. Vinny is watching with us and he gets so excited when Sync diving, swimming and gymnastics are on. He points and squeals and dances. It is so cute, and it only reinforces my desire to get him into some basic gymnastic classes so we can keep him flexible and active. I would hate to waste his love of those things.

Wow

2008-07-11T20:51:00.001-07:00

Remember when you were young and your parents could only ask if you have done drugs or are having sex? Not this generation, check this out http://www.brickhouse-childsafety.com/drug-detection-test-kits.html

It is nuts! Another sign of the times, they have bullet-proof backpacks. But they have some child locators. I am really interested in the little brown bear one. Vinny usually stays within sight but if I lost him, or someone grabbed him, it would be nice.

Blonde

2008-07-09T22:47:00.001-07:00

I am going to get my hair done in the next month and I am thinking about going blond. I want to know what people think about the idea. I am thinking a honey or caramel color, not platinum or anything. So let me know what you think! Oh, and don't tell Dan, I am going to surprise him!

Rant

2008-06-30T16:39:00.001-07:00

I haven't written on here in awhile and I have been wanting to, but I have no idea what I want to write, so this will pretty much be a hard to follow crazy rant.

I have been stressing lately about the current state of the world. I think about how bad things can get today, but what will be like in just 5 years, and how will it be when my son is older. I think about when he is dating and I am so worried. I mean, the pressure to dress filthy for little girls starts at birth, have you seen the swim suits they have for newborns? I wouldn't wear some of that in public even if I wasn't LDS. It is so bad and getting worse. People are trying to make it legal for any age to look at pornography on the internet. Monsters who are after our kids are being protected more then the kids are. I have the right to know if you have done something to a child, especially if you live next door to me.

Sex has become as common as breathing, and as pointless as soap opera wedding. I mean that term alone says it. Shows like Desperate Housewives and Swing Town are being praise and there is a new reality show ever minute but good, family entertainment is falling by the way side. Have you ever watched some of the stuff on ABC "Family", drunken college kids, sleeping around, scantily clad prom girls, a show about a prego teen created due to the popularity of Juno. I just, ACK! I am horrified thinking about the future my kids are going to face.

Although that makes me think of visiting teaching this last week. (I know, we were pretty late.) We talked about how those who were strongest in Heaven were saved to come her to earth in this time of turmoil, and we know that we are not tested above what we can handle. I look at my little boy, all 23 lbs of him and think "Wow, you have powers in you that could, and very well may, change the world." He could be one standing against the most powerful forces of evil even known to earth. He could be a prophet or apostle. He could lead millions. He has that power, the soul of a warrior in his tiny little body. It is amazing.

More on sampling

2008-06-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

If anyone would like in on these kinds of offers check this out, this is a portion of the e-mail I received from Pete, my corisponant with the samples:

"Please feel free to let any other bloggers know that I'll send them samples of Gloves In A Bottle to try if they are willing to post a review on their blog if they like it. All I need is their blog URL and mailing address. They can contact me at
petegrimaldi@earthlink.net ."

I have had two awesome samples through him already, full bottles plus small samples to share. So send him a message if you'd like!

Sampling

2008-06-23T06:39:00.000-07:00

Hello again, as I have mentioned in the past I am addicted to samples. I got another great product I was ask to review on here and give my honest opinions. So here it is, Glove in a Bottle lotion (Can be found on-line at www.glovesinabottle.com)

This is a great lotion that I am now in love with! It is a really powerful lotion for really dry skin. The best thing is that although it's name suggests that it's only for hands it works all over, especially feet! Which is why I love it so much. I have really dry feet, they crack every other day. I mean, it is bad. This lotion keeps that from happening and they actually feel soft after just the second application!

Also, even though it is really powerful it has a very light sent, and after application you can't really smell it at all. It's isn't greasy either!

I guess the only real cons are that 1. It is a little more expensive than my usual (dollar tree) but extremely worth it. And 2. As far as I have seen it is only available on-line and I prefer in-store shopping.

Overall 5 out of 5!

Prayer

2008-06-18T06:29:00.000-07:00

First off, I definitely have a testimony of the power of prayer. I have prayed many times and had my prayers answered in ways I never imagined, but they did exactly what I needed. But you have to do something, not just pray.

I am so upset by the deaths of children this past year who's families just prayed to cure them from minor illness. One 15 month old girl only needed some antibiotics for pneumonia but she is now dead. Another just with childhood diabetes and I know from family and friends that it is treatable, and you still live a long and happy life.

Christ did not just pray, he acted. The apostles and prophets prayed for guidance, then acted on what the Lord told them to do. They didn't just pray to be heard, they went out and searched for those who would listen. It reminds me of a story that I know is over used but I love and it really applies.

The Flood Story

A flood threatens a town, forcing everyone to evacuate, But Joe thinks,
"I'm a devout man, God will save me," and stays
put. As the waters rise, Joe's neighbor comes by and says, "Joe come with me, we've got to go." Joe declines,
"I'm a devout man, God will save me."

The waters keep rising, Joe scrambles to his second floor. A firefighter in a rowboat comes by. "Get in the boat or you'll drown," he says. Joe again declines, saying,
"God will save me."

Finally, the flood waters force Joe to his roof. A police helicopter comes by and throws down a rope. "Climb up or you'll drown," the policeman yells. "No, I'm a devout man,
God will save me," Joe replies.

Soon, Joe drowns.
He arrives in heaven and challenges God.
"Why didn't you help me?"

"What do you mean?" God says."I did help. I sent a neighbor, a firefighter and a helicopter."

And that is my little rant.

Fair Share? Hmp.

2008-06-16T16:58:00.000-07:00

My husband just had his first day at the state today and we found about something that has me pretty upset.

To give you a bit of back ground on my upset, I hate unions. I think there are very few places they have any use anymore and I think in most job fields they should be eradicated. They are pushy people who really don't care about you, just furthering there little group. I know this from personal experience at T-Mobile when they jumped in front of cars trying to get the workers to join a union and yet the "benefits" we would have had through them were nill compared to what we already had at T-Mobile, but they kept on trying. It got to the point that Dan was ready to literally run them over if they got in front of our car again. They made people late to work who asked to be left alone!

Well, now with the state even if we don't join, which we WILL NOT!, they are making us pay $50.00 or our "fair share" since they represent the state and we might happen to get benefits from their actions. Ugh! That's like paying your neighbor because they might build a mutually used fence, but they might not. I want nothing to do with them and the crap those people pull but I am stuck PAYING THEM! What is wrong with this picture!?

Big Boy

2008-06-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

Vinny has reached another milestone in the baby to big boy transition. He is sleeping in a toddler bed! He can get out on his own, having a little trouble getting in, but he is sleeping all night in a big boy bed! Next step, Potty Training! He can also say book and blue.

His first night he got out and cried, when he got quiet we came in and found him like this.
Day two he slept all night in the bed.
After his first day in nursery he can fold his arms if you ask. (And he's in the mood)
The big bed

Vinny has reached another milestone in the baby to big boy transition. He is sleeping in a toddler bed! He can get out on his own, having a little trouble getting in, but he is sleeping all night in a big boy bed! Next step, Potty Training! He can also say book and blue.

Poems

2008-05-21T19:45:00.000-07:00

I have some of my poems posted on this site. Check it out if you like, and let me know what you think. http://www.goodreads.com/story/show/17385.Poems

You Never Know

2008-05-15T05:52:00.000-07:00

There was a guy I knew in high school who seemed to have things pretty well together. He was very talented, he excelled in theater and was such a nice guy. He was constructive and if you completely messed up he would make you feel better and help you figure out how to fix it. I had come to expect some great things from him, especially in theater.

I got a call yesterday from a mutual friend. This young man was in the Air Force and something happened, he didn't pass a test or didn't get into a speciality area, I am not sure, and he hung himself. I was absolutely shocked and scared. He was one of the last people I would have expected that from. It left me so sad and confused.

This Sunday there is a memorial for him. I am going, but it is so sad knowing that the first time I will see some of my friends in 4 years is for this. That we are gathering for this solemn event, and that he will never be there when we all meet in the future. It just has me really off.

New Camera

2008-05-08T21:10:00.000-07:00

I got a new toy today and I am having way too much fun with it. These are a few of my favorite shots. I just thought I would share them with you all.

Enrichment

2008-05-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

I forgot, I am teaching a computer class in Enrichment next month and I need ideas of what things the sister would like to learn to do or do better. If you have any ideas let me know!

Walking

2008-05-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

I know it has been almost two weeks, but I forgot to add it here. Vinny is walking now. All around the house in fact and it is so cute! Her likes to go outside now, and play with his ball. Only issue is he wants to play on the nice flat street. Luckily he is still small enough and slow enough that I can stop him.

His favorite thing to do is pick up our basketball and walk around the house with it. Then he throws it randomly, chases it and picks it back up. The sound of it scares me sometimes.

Snow

2008-04-19T23:16:00.000-07:00

Vinny made me so proud this morning. I had OBP on in the living room, some show about gardening. At one point they were talking about keeping plants healthy and safe in winter. I wasn't watching until Vinny pointed at the T.V. and said "Shue" (His word for "look" or "see") then out the window and repeated "Shue" so I looked, it was snowing on the TV, and out the window! He kept pointing back and forth "shue"ing, then walked (okay, hobbled with a hand on the coffee table) to the couch to get a better look out the window and said "wow."

I was so excited to see him not only telling me something so clearly but also realizing things can be happening in two places at once, and that what you see in one place you can seen in another. I just can't believe what he is doing. He communicates with me really well. He will point at what he wants and say, you guessed it, "Shue", then if I pick up the wrong thing he will quickly shake his head and point again until I get it right. He only gets mad or fussy if I am obviously giving him the wrong thing on purpose, or he is sleepy. When I get it right he smiles or giggles. It is so cute.

Law and Order

2008-04-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

Jack McCoy on Law and Order had a great quote on an episode tonight, I really liked it, so I thought I would share it with you all.

"The Constitution should be used less as a shield for the guilty and more as a weapon for their innocent victims."

Seriously, "LIFE, liberty and the pursuit of happiness". I am so sick of "justice" letting people get away with murder and the destruction of lives in the name of the constitution. KKK incites people to commit crimes, but it is freedom of speech. But if I say I am Christian I am forcing my religion on people and I should be silenced.

Oh, and on the topic of freaking freedom of speech, a Candidate's pastor can have, just in the last year, say horrible things about his country DURING SERMONS and people say "Don't hold it against the Candidate, he doesn't believe that." The same candidate's wife can say embarrassing things I don't like hearing from a potential first lady, but we should all ignore it.

But if a Candidate has a religion that says others might not being doing what they should, or that you might be wrong, just saying, he is ridiculed, mocked and judged on what happened in his religion 100 YEARS AGO! And that's okay, no wait, more than okay, it's right. Come on!

Now I am not saying Obama is a radical like his pastor. I have no idea if he is, and I think his wife just said something stupid and probably thought "Shut up! Shut up!" after her comment, but it is the way people reacted to it and treat it. I am just sick of all this "Liberty and Justice (and freedom of Speech or religion) for some. It's getting really old.

Baby Loves Chocolate

2008-04-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

This is a video from this morning.
Last night I took Vinny's easter basket and put it beside his crib, on the floor, this morning he had been very quiet for about and hour so I went in to get him. I could smell chocolate as I walked in, but I thought the basket must have been left near the heater. This is what I found.

8th Grade Education

2008-04-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

I found this on-line and I was just shocked to think about it. Nowadays people talk about how we are so much smarter and better off than 10, 20, 100 years ago, but this proves other wise to me. I had to look up a bunch of this on Google just to understand the questions. I know Kari will do better than me, being a teacher and all, but for the rest of us, try it out without looking anything up first and see how you compare. (And we are doing this after a full High School and College educations)

What it took to get an 8th grade education in 1895

--Remember when grandparents and great-grandparents stated that they only had an 8th grade education? Well, check this out. Could any of us have passed the 8th grade in 1895?
This is the eighth-grade final exam from 1895 in Salina, Kansas, USA. It was taken from the original document on file at the Smokey Valley Genealogical Society and Library in Salina, KS, and reprinted by the Salina Journal.

8th Grade Final Exam: Salina, KS -1895
Grammar (Time, one hour)

1. Give nine rules for the use of capital letters.
2. Name the parts of speech and define those that have no modifications.
3. Define verse, stanza and paragraph
4. What are the principal parts of a verb? Give principal parts of"lie,""play," and "run."
5. Define case; Illustrate each case.
6 What is punctuation? Give rules for principal marks of punctuation.
7 - 10. Write a composition of about 150 words and show therein that you understand the practical use of the rules of grammar.

Arithmetic (Time, 1.25 hours)

1. Name and define the Fundamental Rules of Arithmetic.
2. A wagon box is 2 ft. deep, 10 feet long, and 3 ft. wide. How many bushels of wheat will it hold?
3. If a load of wheat weighs 3942 lbs., what is it worth at 50cts/bushel, deducting 1050 lbs. for tare?
4. District No. 33 has a valuation of $35,000. What is the necessary levy to carry on a school seven months at $50 per month, and have $104 for incidentals?
5. Find the cost of 6720 lbs. coal at $6.00 per ton.
6. Find the interest of $512.60 for 8 months and 18 days at 7 percent.
7. What is the cost of 40 boards 12 inches wide and 16 ft. long at $20 per metre?
8. Find bank discount on $300 for 90 days (no grace) at 10 percent.
9. What is the cost of a square farm at $15 per acre, the distance of which is 640 rods?
10. Write a Bank Check, a Promissory Note, and a Receipt.

U.S. History (Time, 45 minutes)

1. Give the epochs into which U.S. History is divided.
2. Give an account of the discovery of America by Columbus.
3. Relate the causes and results of the Revolutionary War.
4. Show the territorial growth of the United States.
5. Tell what you can of the history of Kansas. (Sub. in your state, Oregon for most of you)
6. Describe three of the most prominent battles of the Rebellion.
7. Who were the following: Morse, Whitney, Fulton, Bell, Lincoln, Penn, and Howe?
8. Name events connected with the following dates: 1607, 1620, 1800, 1849, 1865.

Orthography (Time, one hour) Do we even know what this is??

1. What is meant by the following: Alphabet, phonetic, orthography, etymology, syllabication
2. What are elementary sounds? How classified?
3. What are the following, and give examples of each: Trigraph, subvocals, diphthong, cognate letters, linguals
4. Give four substitutes for caret 'u.' (HUH?)
5. Give two rules for spelling words with final 'e.' Name two exceptions under each rule.
6. Give two uses of silent letters in spelling. Illustrate each.
7. Define the following prefixes and use in connection with a word: bi, dis, mis, pre, semi, post, non, inter, mono, sup.
8 . Mark diacritically and divide into syllables the following, and name the sign that indicates the sound: card, ball, mercy, sir, odd, cell, rise, blood, fare, last.
9. Use the following correctly in sentences: cite, site, sight, fane, fain, feign, vane, vain, vein, raze, raise, rays.
10. Write 10 words frequently mispronounced and indicate pronunciation by use of diacritical marks and by syllabication.

Geography (Time, one hour)

1 What is climate? Upon what does climate depend?
2. How do you account for the extremes of climate in Kansas?
3. Of what use are rivers? Of what use is the ocean?
4. Describe the mountains of North America
5. Name and describe the following: Monrovia, Odessa, Denver, Manitoba, Hecla, Yukon, St. Helena, Juan Fernandez, Aspinwall and Orinoco.
6. Name and locate the principal trade centers of the U.S.
7. Name all the republics of Europe and give the capital of each.
8. Why is the Atlantic Coast colder than the Pacific in the same latitude?
9. Describe the process by which the water of the ocean returns to the sources of rivers.
10. Describe the movements of the earth. Give the inclination of the earth.

Notice that the exam took FIVE HOURS to complete. Gives the saying "he only had an 8th grade education" a whole new meaning, doesn't it? Also shows you how poor our education system has become... and, NO! I don't have the answers

MET SOME GOALS

2008-03-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

If you look at my first post you will see that I had a goal of loosing 5lbs by April first. Weighted myself this morning and I am 5lbs lighter! I am so happy. I have also started a garden, basic and may die with all this nutty weather, but I am trying. Meeting goals makes me happy!

Weird Dreams

2008-03-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a dream that made no sense then later that day you find something out for the first time and the odd things fall into place?

Last night I had a dream in which I was me, but I looked like Drew Barrymore. Then I fell in love with a guy named Moe, who was just like Dan but looked like Bruce Willis. So I wake up wondering why in heavens name I put those two together, I couldn't remember a movie they were in together, let alone as a couple.

So this morning I searched Google for both there names, hoping to find a movie, but instead I find out they were making out at a Golden Globe party. I don't follow celebrity relations unless I see them on the news or I am really bored in the check out at the grocery store. So I can't imagine where I would have heard this if I ever did.

I think I might be psychic :)

Anyways, it was just weird. But I do have to say Dan mixed with Bruce Willis is strangely alluring.

IBC

2008-03-26T14:07:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of Inflammatory Breast Cancer? It isn't a lump, it's like a bug bite or a sore spot, and people don't know about it. My mom sent me a You Tube video that I would like to share with you all because it is incredibly important. So please, watch the video, it really could save your life.

http://www.youtube.com:80/watch?v=3s9_UrVtc6c

Weight Loss

2008-03-25T16:39:00.000-07:00

I am sick of these commercials saying "I am back into my favorite bikini" or "I am the same size I was in High School." I DON'T want to be he same size I was in high school, I was heavy in high school. I wasn't healthy. I don' want to be a 14 again, I want to be about an 8 ish, that fits my hight and my build so that is what I want. I just wish there was a decent workout or diet plan or idea of those that was about ridding you of your bad habits you have had since childhood. It really annoys me. Anyways, yeah, if anyone is a stay at home mom or is home in mornings and wants to get together and work out, or play date or anything, let me know. I go stir crazy. My mom and I walk in the mornings at the mall during the colder weather, but it is starting to drive me nuts. I'd like to do something a little more active, or at least a change of scenery. Oh, and I am looking for a baby bike seat and a infant helmet. If you have one you aren't using or know where to get one I would appreciate it.

Oh, and if anyone knows anyone who can cut down and haul a big rotting tree, let me know.

Helping Others

2008-03-24T17:43:00.000-07:00

You know what? Helping people feels good. Daniel and I have a deal with Salem Hospital that we get electronics they are just going to throw away and give it a new life. Well, we got these barcode scanners with a LCD screen and we were able to give them to two local people with small businesses who really needed them. It just feels so good to help people. The one guy was so excited he e-mailed me twice and when I called him he almost sound giddy. It was so wonderful knowing we made his life easier when we could have just taken them to the dump with all the broken things we took today. Anyways, I just have a happy glowing feeling and thought I would share.

Freebies and Samples

2008-03-21T05:51:00.000-07:00

I have a confession, I am addicted to free samples and free promotions. I used to search Google all the time to try and find something good, then I found a site that makes me excited for Fridays (as a stay-at-home mom the weekend doesn't really fire me up) so I thought I would share the bounty with you all (who at this point I think are two):

http://www.momadvice.com/blog/labels/Freebies.htm

Every Friday they post on the blog their "Freebie Friday" post which list samples and freebies from all over the Internet, some really great things like toddler dish set, teaching tools, lotions, foods, pet supplies, magazine subscriptions and all sorts of stuff, they post around 10:00 am PST, I usually go at night when Dan gets home.

I just wanted to share a little passion with you all. OH! And as a part of one of those offers, Skin MD, I was asked to review their product on my blog. The lotion was great, it worked really well and it had a clean un-oily feeling, I really liked it, plus the sample was a whole bottle, so I always like when they aren't stingy. Check it out. Here is their site if the offer is still up, www.skinmdnatural.com

FIRST STEPS!!

2008-03-15T11:16:00.000-07:00

Vinny took his first steps less than an hour ago, he has take about ten steps now and 3 different times! I am so happy. You might have already heard if I have your cell number. I am just so incredibly happy right now. My mouth hurts from all the smiling. I just thought I would pass along the good new!

YEAH!

2008-03-14T16:53:00.000-07:00

My first happy post! That's what happens when you give a 15 month old a bath and he splashes all over you! I have had a great day today. My booger buns (Vinny) his grandma and I went out and did a little shopping. Vinny got some new clothes and balloon, which is his favorite. I got some much needed shopping done and I got one of those slicer things with the little storage compartment to catch the mess. I was REALLY happy about that.

Also, today was the birth of SUPER VINNY and SUPER MOM! I tied a little receiving blanket around Vinny's neck and another around mine and we "flew" around his room. It was a lot of fun.

He is getting so big now, he got a new tooth last week and another started poking through today. He already had 8 so he is on to 10 now. And boy can he bite! Ouch!

It's so odd thinking of him as MY baby, it's more like I am constantly babysitting. It is just so weird seeing me as a mom, I still feel too young. Ah well, I am and I know it, but the booger butt is fussing, so I better go!

I miss my friends

2008-03-10T21:14:00.000-07:00

I miss my friends from the old days. I only talk to Mary Tedders much any more. It's so dull. I have very few friends anymore, so I get a little depressed when I think about High School and past. Facebook and MySpace are nice to keep in touch, but that is about all the socialization I get. Meh, I am done depressing everyone.

ACK!

2008-03-06T19:00:00.000-08:00

Hello again. I am so irritated right now with the stupid election crap. There was a woman on the radio today who was saying how we should have everyone vote for the primaries within a 2 week period so every state counts. It makes sense to me. I was a Romney supporter and he was kicked out earlier on, but what if (completely hypothetical here) everyone in Texas and Ohio, Oregon and all the other states would have voted for him? How is it fair that if one group didn't like someone everyone else is screwed into choosing what they did? Seriously.

And I agree with this ladies idea that they could only campaign for a few months too. She said something to the effect of "If they can't say what they stand for and what they would do in 5-7 months, they have no business running." Which is so true, I am sick of all the hemming and hawing from everyone.

Oookay, I'm new at this, so please forgive.

2008-03-01T19:50:00.000-08:00

Like I said, I am new at this, but I thought it would be a fun way for people to check in on my little fam.

So to start, currently the fam is 3 members, My husband Daniel, who will be 27 this April, Me 22, and Vinny, the cute one, 14 months. We live in our own home in south Salem and love BBQ's.

Daniel (Dan) works at T-Mobile and runs Customer Computers of Salem (ccofsalem.com) out of our converted garage. Check out the site, he made it himself.

Vinny is just plain darling. He is almost walking, so close! He can say mama, dada, daddy and up. He says gma and bama. Loves mirrors. My gosh does he love mirrors, and escalators.

And I am... alive. I am a stay-at-home mother, what I always wanted to be. I go out walking with my mom 4 days a week, church on Sunday, shopping here and there, and other than that I check e-mail, clean house, watch TV and read. Right now I am reading Raymond E. Fiest's "The Magician's Apprentice" and the vampire series by Stephanie Meyer, but I am waiting for the 3rd book, borrowing from a Friend.

Speaking of friends, I need more, and one's to do things with. Most of my friends are too far away, too busy or too different. By the last I mean they are friends for years but unmarried and no kids so our goals and dreams are a bit different and it can be hard to get together and do things, so I would like to have some more mommy friends who know where I am coming from when I talk about teething and such. So if you are looking for more friends I'll give you my resume.

Okay, now that the "intro" is over with, let's get with the yakking. Today was great, we have a part of the business called "No Part Left Behind" where we take old unused parts and recycle the unusable and rebuild the decent ones, we then resell them for the cost of our labor and any inventory we have used. Works really well. So anyways, today we sold 4 systems mixed inventory and used and made some seriously needed cash. It feels great paying towards a loan and paying off our butt-headed CitiBank card. Ugh, I hate CitiBank.

But also we recycled a ton of crap taking up space in our living room, got some donations and free stuff, like 3 bar stools to use in our shop, free! No better price than that! And some other odds and ends that are really nice. Then we went out to dinner, which is always nice to have a date, even at Carl's Junior. We spent time with Mum, my mother-in-law, which is always nice, brought her a burger.

I am going to take a page from Kari's Blog and list my goals on here. Maybe if I put them in a public place I'll do better with them.

GOALS:
1. Lose 5 lbs minimum by April 1st.
2. Clean House (and keep it clean) to Grandma's standards by the time she gets here in April.
3. Start a garden.
4. Write chapter one in the Rucardian Novels.
5. Send Miskers in to a publisher.

Okay, enough for tonight. Luv Ya!