Lumpy Potatoes

Smiley Babies are Second Only to Sleeping Babies!

2012-02-11T19:22:00.002-06:00

Liam and Cierra are getting so big! Here is a short video of us getting him all ready for a bath!

My Boyfriend Knows I Poop....Dun, dun dunnnn

2012-02-10T18:37:00.004-06:00

As a fore-runner to this post, you must know that I usually poop when my boyfriend is gone, not that I plan it that way, but I prefer to get my pooping done while he is occupied.

So the other night I pooped.
It. Wouldn't. Flush.

I thought it was pretty funny, so I started laughing.

My daughter called up to me,
"WHAT is so funny mom?"

Me: "I pooped"

Cierra: "What's so funny about that?"

Me: "Turds' stuck!

Cierra "What? eeww (laughing)"

And...that was that. I didn't want to plunge it, because then there would be poop on the plunger, and the thought of cleaning that made me wanna yak. SO I just left it there to...you know...soften up. The baby was fussing, so I just closed the toilet, washed my hands and forgot about it.

A couple of hours went by and I was downstairs cooking dinner, when my boyfriend bolted into the kitchen, saying (very proudly) "You are busted"!

I knew EXACTLY what he was talking about. ha ha

Apparently he had gone upstairs to go to the bathroom as soon as he arrived home from work and asked Cierra who forgot to flush.

Cierra said, "My mom. (shrugs) Wouldn't flush."

SO needless to say the secret is out....even kick ass, slightly vain, girly girls like me, drop a deuce that won't flush every now and then. (and blog about it) Don't hate!

Girlscout Cookies!

2012-01-14T01:17:00.004-06:00

This will be the third year-in-a-row that my daughter has sold girl scout cookies.

Cookie sales bring out the crazy sales lady in me. When I was little, I sold girl scout cookies as well! Year after year, I had top cookie sales in my region. I was in Texas, the region was BIG! My motivation when I was young was two consecutive weeks at girl scout camp. I Loved getting away for two weeks. I was the oldest of four kids...what can I say? My parents couldn't afford to send me to camp for two weeks, so I had to sell cookies in order to go!

That being said, Cierra has no desire to go to girl scout camp, but had the top cookie sales out of anyone in her troop last year. The taste of success is addicting, what can I say? This year she has set an even higher goal. With new baby and not working, we shall attempt to meet this goal again! Oh yes! I said , "WE". This year we have cookies in hand, so you no longer have to wait for them. Needless to say, they are taking over my living room (inspiration in and of itself to sell the damn things)!

Justin Bieber's Mom

2012-01-09T17:07:00.005-06:00

While doing make-up for a group of teenage girls prior to homecoming, they began whispering amongst each other...as teenage girls do! I enjoy giving them a hard time so I said, 'Secrets don't make friends ladies!" :)

They promptly stated that they all thought I looked like Justin Bieber's mom. Oh GAWD.

I've now graduated to looking like someones mom! For the record... here she is...Justin Bieber's Mom... And...here I am, ha ha

Two Fall Sets

2012-01-09T16:51:00.003-06:00

I took Cierra's Fall pictures before Thanksgiving and did a couple of my niece's before Christmas as well. We haven't had the usual Nebraska snow-filled fall and winter! Here are some pictures from both of those sets, though I I have yet to edit them, you get the picture! Enjoy!

More Pictures of What you Missed

2012-01-04T23:14:00.007-06:00

Here are some more pictures of what you missed, from before Halloween to nowish because I failed to blog over the past few months! Enjoying babydum!

Me two days before I delivered as 'Miss Piggy'...
Cierra as the Red Queen (I did her hair and make-up with every intention of blogging about it. IT. WAS. A-MAZING

Rod and I at our Anual Pumpkin Carving Party a little less than a week before having baby!

Me 3 days before I delivered!

Me 5 days before I delivered with my niece Jayslyn...

My brother and I...

Maddox (Liam's cousin) holding him...

Liam with his Oma...

Mel and Mercedes from Albuquerque (Mel and Liam have the same hair here... ha ha

Big sister Cierra holding her little brother...

Me(tired) and baby (sleeping) lol..

Noah (Liam's cousin) 'holding baby'

Liam and his Grandad Woody...

Senior Picture Set for Matthew

2012-01-04T23:06:00.004-06:00

A couple of weeks after I had baby, my old GM asked me to take her son's Senior Pictures. The weather cooperated and so did newborn baby Liam! Here are some pictures from that set!

On a side note; I forgot how awkward teenage boys can be...and how fun it is to make them laugh!

Merry Christmas

2012-01-02T01:37:00.002-06:00

Christmas with new baby was fantastical! I'm in love again! It's official! I just love the quiet sleepy nights by the tree! Here is a video of Cierra and I talking to him about Christmas. Most mornings he is so happy..it's le sigh!

This Post is Called, "I had Baby and My Blog Took the Backseat!"

2012-01-02T01:05:00.004-06:00

So, I totally had my son on Halloween. It went like this:

October 30th:

Rod: "I don't wanna go to work this week...can't you have him tomorrow?"

Me: "Sure, I'll just schedule it! ha ha BTW, if you want to HELP things along...we could break this drought" (my boyfriend refused to have sex with me because he didn't want to hurt the baby...even after I was 'okay to go at 36 weeks')

Rod: "hums Barry White...I've Been Feeling Dryyyyy Bab-ay"

Me: I obliged...a few times. (keep in mind... it had been MONTHS)

Fast forward three hours to Rod, Cierra and I going to see "Puss in Boots'..I had contractions THE WHOLE time...it was 3pm. I really didn't think it was real labor...just annoying contractions that were consistently 4 minutes apart. They didn't hurt, but continued most of the night. I went home, called my Dr. who said to go in whenever I thought the contractions were getting more painful. (I had shit to do)!

I promptly ate dinner, took a bath, shaved and began my homework that was due by 10 pm that night. I was still having contractions, so we took C to her aunt and uncles house...just in case. I finished my homework at 9:30 and was still having contractions. I STILL didn't think they were real, so I caught up on my DVR'd shows and began the coursework for the next week. I finally tried to go to bed at 2am, which didn't work too well, so we headed to the hospital. (I wanted to wait until after midnight so I wouldn't be charged for a whole days stay...how cheap am I?!) lol

October 31st
3:00 am Put on monitors
5:00am Admitted , "We're gonna have a baby on Halloween"!
7:00 am Blood results show uber low platelet count = no epidural allowed.
8:00 am Dilated to 3
9:00 am Broke my water
11:00 am Dilated to 5, labor not too unbearable...bracing myself!
1:00 pm Dilated to 7, whoa low hums aren't cutting it for me, and I want to be fully dilated already.

1:45 pm Dilated to 8, Dr says baby is posterior and has me get on my hands and knees to help turn him OH MY GAWD. I started being that loud obnoxious woman in labor. I was so embarrassed between contractions (which were piggy backing each other)...it was Halloween...I kept telling the nurses I was 'in character'. ha ha

I was finally fully dilated by 3 pm

Liam Sebastian Hale was born at 3:37pm.

8 lbs 9 oz
21 inches long!

I felt so accomplished having a big baby without meds...I told my boyfriend I was being 'cost effective' ha ha He was healthy and even though I felt like I HAD BEEN HIT BY A TRUCK THE NEXT DAY...I would TOTALLY do it again. I felt like I had more control (I'm a control freak, so this is a good thing), I felt like I healed faster and I felt like baby was more alert and healthy! (I had an epidural and a lot of problems during delivery with my daughter who was only 6.5 lbs)

Anyway,

Halloween Costume for Preggo and Chinese Foot Binding

2011-10-13T22:26:00.009-05:00

I LOVE Halloween. I will not let the possibility of being almost ten months pregnant shut down my Halloween costume plans! ha ha I am THAT dedicated. Actually I just adore a reason to wear Insanely long false lashes and do my make-up all artsy fartsy. SO here is the line up... IF I have baby BEFORE Halloween, I will be a Geisha and he will be Spicy Tuna Sushi.

If, by chance I am still VERY pregnant by the time Halloween rolls around, I will be a kick ass Glamorous Miss Piggy.
For the record...Miss Piggy will have her own make-up line via MAC Cosmetics in February, coinciding with the release of the Muppet's film! I could totally rock this pregnant!

And at last resort, I could always be a pregnant Geisha (although much more fabulous than the one pictured here: middle)
While researching Geisha stuff, I found this photo of a supposed Geisha's foot. (It's one of those deer-caught-in-the-headlights sorta things... Upon further research, there is no way that this was the foot of a Geisha, as foot-binding was a Chinese tradition, not Japanese. You can read more about it here. The tradition was banned in 1911. I have too much time on my hands, clearly.

Over the Hump, Baking and Mice

2011-10-13T14:14:00.011-05:00

Still pregnant folks!

I've been baking A LOT lately. I bake a lot regardless, so the fact that I am baking more than usual, says a lot. There is currently the following diet killers in my kitchen (it's ridiculous, really):

-Cranberry walnut zucchini bread
-Chocolate chip cookies (made with 1/2 butter & half shortening, for texture)
-Pumpkin chocolate chip bread
-I made ahead and froze cookie dough as well, just in case I'm out of commission.

This morning, I saw a mouse in broad daylight next to my stove and royally fa-reaked out! Aren't mice SUPPOSE to be nocturnal? ha ha Funny thing is, mice don't particularly bother me as much as bats do. We tend to see a mouse or two every September/ October. We live next to a massive community garden and when the weather begins to get cooler, the mice have a go at our townhouse.

I hate mousetraps and refuse to use any type of loose poison; anybody have any mousetrap alternatives?

I Heart Big Fat Gawdy RIngs

2011-09-21T09:02:00.003-05:00

Don't know if you know this fact about me... but I ADORE big fat gawdy rings. The hospital gift shop where I get shots every week, actually has a pretty decent selection of costume jewelry. (I know right?!)

I take it upon myself, to reward myself every two weeks with a new ring. It is the least I can do for myself after getting those damn shots every. single. week. Needless to say, I now have QUITE the collection. Here are a few.

Baby Shower Goodness

2011-09-12T22:17:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, Rod found our Houdini bat in the sink. This is the bat that's been reeking havoc in our house after dark for the past week or so. The poor thing finally keeled over. As bad as I feel about his death..I am overjoyed that he is no longer in the house. (shivering dance)

As if that weren't enough Goodness for the day, my sister and boyfriends sister threw a surprise baby shower for us. It was a surprise, so I have no pictures! boo hiss! I will steal some from Jen soon and will definitely share! I am so thankful for everybody that came and for all the goodies everyone gave us for Liam.

Toward the end, Rod and Cierra gave me a Zales bag. For a second, I thought...certainly he's not proposing (perplexed sigh because, I feel that will never happen). As I opened it, there was a beautiful link bracelet. Turns out, people thought I didn't react properly. (though if they new the things I was thinking, they may understand) I was a little disoriented, and very surprised!

I definitely wasn't expecting anything for me and thought it was absolute sweet, thoughtful goodness! Cierra was so proud of herself for helping Rod pick it out! When I gave her a hug, I whispered just how lucky I am to be her mom! Rod was all smiles and one look at him just made me want to cry...it was just so thoughtful! It was a nice end to a rough week, a really nice end!

Lately, I've been missing Valency and Wendy; whom are always good for nice long talks, but are both a bazillion miles away! They are both people with the ability to bring me back down to Earth! SO if you two are reading this... I miss you very much!

You'd think with all this bedrest, I'd blog more! I still blog every day on the bedrest blog, but even IT is a bit boring-tagious!

Agro Preggo

2011-09-01T09:24:00.004-05:00

A couple of days ago, I bit my boyfriend's head off for something. (Is it sad, that I don't even remember what?) He's not the confrontation type, which is NOT GOOD for me. I come from a loud family that operates under the rule, "If you love somebody, you talk/yell it out" Seriously...there are a lot of us and we are ALL loud! ha ha.

My boyfriend prefers to just ignore me completely, which does NOT work for me, clearly. I can be a bit high maintenance at times: don't hate! Ignoring me doesn't work in a normal setting and is just Goddamn mean now, since I spend all day at home with no-one to talk to. Ignoring me is like ASKING me to blow shit out of proportion...it's the boyfriend equivalent of putting a target on your back. Today is the second day of silence and now I'm just MAD! Boys are so clueless!

On a bright note; I may be able to go back to work in October...I CAN'T WAIT! My next appointment is in exactly one week, I will be begging /asking at that time! I work at ULTA, there are 25 to 30 girls there and ALWAYS someone to friggin talk to!

Bedrest is officially making me a crazy woman!

Online Window Shopping

2011-08-31T12:56:00.005-05:00

I've been spending all morning Christmas shopping and window shopping online. I want to get Christmas shopping done, before my pay gets cut off in November! Window shopping is totally easy to do online!

Please see the following Online Window Shopping Directions:

1. Go to favorite store website; Place all of the stuff your heart desires into your cart.
2. Open a new window for a different store: go to new site
3. Repeat step 1
4. When you've forgotten about all the goodies waiting in your cart from step one, simply click the little X, close window screen.

Viola! Online window shopping accomplished!

Bat Week

2011-08-29T10:41:00.001-05:00

Late last night I was submitting my homework for the week, everybody else was asleep and then it happened…..

A BAT FLEW IN FRONT OF MY FACE. This week is officially ‘bat week’. Needless to say, I threw my laptop at it, horror film screamed and sprinted up the stairs (20 stairs in 4 leaps). I’m surprised the neighbors didn’t call the cops…it was ridiculous.!

I woke Rod up and rather than going to get it, he shut the doors, called the Human Society, then WENT BACK TO SLEEP! I was NOT okay with that, clearly! My medication and water were both downstairs (with the bat), my heart was beating OUT of my chest and I was begining to get royally pissed at my sleeping boyfriend.

When I screamed, I must’ve woke Cierra up, because it wasn’t long before she called me…from her room asking if there was another bat in the house! At that point, I wouldn’t shut up until Rod went downstairs and got the damn bat!

HE COULDN”T FIND THE DAMN THING! He thinks it flew back into the basement and even though he went down there…couldn’t find it. Needless to say I slept like poo, didn’t pee all night and the Human Society never came!

On the bright side….it gives me something to blog about…..

Bat-abulous

2011-08-26T10:42:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was Day 2 of bedrest and the only exciting things that happened weren't that exciting at all!

First, there was this:

I hadn't driven my car in nearly a week, when I got in it...THIS is what was waiting for me.

The finale of the evening ended when a bat flew into the house! I was tucking Cierra in for bed, when the following took place:

Rod: "Jen! Shut the door!"

Me: "WHy?"

Rod: "There's a bat in the house!"
Me: (SLAM) Eew, eew eew.... "ARe you gonna get it?"

Rod: "How do you suggest I do that? The thing is huge!"

Me: "I don't know... be creative!" (I give the BEST advice) ha ha

Meanwhile in Cierra's room (with the door shut)

Cierra: "Why do bats have to be killed when they get into your house?"

Me: "I've been told that they will come back if you don't, but I'm not sure how true it is."

Cierra: "But it's not the bats fault that he came in here on accident! That would be like me going into the wrong classroom and then getting killed so I won't do it again."

Me: "C, You are a human...the bat is an animal...it's a little different!"

Cierra: "I know, but, they don't really seem mean mom."

Me: "Cierra, I LOVE your big, fat, animal heart...but GO TO SLEEP!"

It wasn't long before the bat was gone and things were calm...(untill 4 o'clock in the morning when Cierra woke up screaming Rod's name). She thought she heard a mouse in her room, a RAT was her actual words, lol. There was no mouse, or rat, or bat...just my poor boyrfriend looking under her bed, in the closet and anywhere else to calm her nerves!

Cierra's questions got me curious about bats. I DESPISE them, but felt bad when I couldn't really answer her questions. Here is a little something about bats if you're bored!

WHAT A NIGHT!

Twas' the Night Before Labor

2011-08-24T13:30:00.001-05:00

Around 11pm on Saturday night, I started having contractions, which was wierd because it had been SUCH a chill day! By 1am Sunday morning I was at the hospital, IV in, with baby and contraction monitors and all. Joyous.

Here I am a couple of hours before.

Twas' the night before (pre-term) labor, and all through the house,
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. (Thank Goodness, I hate mice!)
The dishes were done, and drying with care,
In hopes that the next day, there'd be more time to spare.

My child was nestled all snug in her bed,
When a few contractions came with a dread.
I drank loads of water, with intentions to slaughter,
These imposers who came much too early with bother.

Upon a call to my Doctor, it was almost midnight,
I was instructed to lie on my side without fright.
More water, then I'd pee, it was very clear to see,
This night was simply, not meant for me.

My boyfriend timed the contractions with heed,
As time shortened between, they began to impede.
Out of the townhouse and into the car,
The trip to the hospital was not very far.

The nurses calmly ushered us in,
Ready with swabs, and monitors to begin.
The IV was swift, the test results not good,
I knew I’d be staying in this neighborhood.

Contractions soon shortened, as the shots continued,
I was hopeful, relieved and no longer blue.
The nurses were kind, not one step behind,
The Doctor’s who left me a solid peace mind. (I really do love Bergan Mercy)

Forty-eight hours was my stay,
Though charged to bed rest that very day.
Worry is a funny thing, it creeps right through,
It reminds me of all the things I still must do.

My boyfriend and family sometimes give me a shake,
They say I could use a little more of a break.
I’m convinced baby knows this fact too,
So there is only one thing left to do.

I will enjoy this span without lists and life juggling,
Instead I will relax without even struggling.
My baby boy’s health is my sacrifice,
For him, it’s simply not worth rolling the dice.

IT's All About the Backpack...

2011-08-15T11:43:00.000-05:00

C started her first day of 5th grade today. It used to be all about the backpack, now...it's all about the backpack, AND the outfit! It won't be long before it's all about the SHOES!

Suck-a-toid

2011-08-14T23:27:00.000-05:00

So I've been totally suck-a-toid at my blogging lately.... quite. obviously. I am racing this baby to finish up the last of my classes before he is born and I can start my thesis. When I'm done with work, and homework I spend a good hour rewarding myself with all my pre-recorded shows. Everything is so damn calculated and planned, I just cannot catch up! I never said this with my first, BUT I will be happy when baby is here, so I can relax a lil.

Things are REALLY good though. Here is the latest picture of baby boy, as Mini Me, ha ha

Cierra starts school tomorrow and I just cannot believe how grown up and sweet she is.... 5th grade! Here are some random pictures from the past month:

Here is C at the zoo! My sister-in-law, myself and my sister Tiff

Rod and I
My Sister, My Grandma and I

18 Weeks in 4D

2011-06-20T21:55:00.000-05:00

I went last week to my specialist again and was surprised with yet another set of sonogram pictures. With Cierra, I received one sonogram at 20 weeks, there was no such thing as 4d sonogram pictures at that time! Granted there is a BIG difference between being under a military hospital, as I was with my daughter and a civilian. The care this time around, is definitely more detailed and meticulous.

I will take more belly pictures (next time with a proper camera) this coming weekend! Wooo Hooo! I still can't believe it's been five months already!

Here are some more pictures, they are insane...and he looks like his skin is made of spam...but it's still VERY cool!

It's a Boy!

2011-06-07T12:10:00.003-05:00

At my last visit with Dr. Barsoom, we found out that we are having a BOY! Rod is very proud of himself... you have no idea! lol I am excited as well, one of each for meeee! Yay!

Prior to my last appointment, I was required to do a 24 hour urine sample. I had to collect my pee for a whole day and night and keep it in the refrigerator the whole time. I was calling it 'my jug of love'... I even wore a shirt to match it to my appointments! Luckily Rod was there when the nurse gave me the jug and pee instructions (you should've seen his face) . Priceless. lol

My Doctors are Fabulous

2011-06-07T11:54:00.000-05:00

Last week, I went to see my neonatal specialist, Dr. Barsoom at Bergan Mercy Hospital (who is A-Mazingly Fabulous) Click on his link here. Dr. Barsoom Introduction

I am considered high-risk, because I went into pre-term labor with C, as well as delivering 5 weeks early due to pre-eclampsia. There is a bit more they can do about pre-term labor these days, so I get a weekly shot at his office for the next 19 weeks and counting! We compared tattoos, during my first visit.. ha ha!
My primary care physician is Dr. Heather Taggert (who is equally fabulous) Click on her link here. Dr. Taggart Introduction

16 Weeks

2011-06-07T11:50:00.000-05:00

Here is a picture I took c ouple of weeks ago, when I was 16 weeks! What a difference 5 weeks can make! ha ha I finally have a belly, that somewhat looks pregnant!

There is a little something about me that most people probably wouldn't assume. I am not one of those women who relish being pregnant. It's because I'm a bit of a control freak....and good luck having control over your body when you are pregnant...just sayin' lol

My Green Thumb

2011-05-26T11:24:00.000-05:00

There is nothing I love more, besides cooking (and taking pictures, though I've been slacking in that department) than gardening. Green thumbs run in the family. My Grandma has the hugest garden ever, and my mom plants stuff wherever she lives. I remember when I was in fourth grade she let me have a shaded area in the entryway of our house to plant whatever I wanted. I chose marigolds, because I knew they wouldn't die, yellow was my favorite color, and I read or heard somewhere that they were supposed to be a natural bug repellent! ha ha

These days, I love a good flower garden! The problem is, I haven't really been anywhere long enough (besides the house in Fordham, Cambridgeshire, UK) to get a decent one in!

This year I chose to garden whether or not we'll be here, in this house, a year from now or not! I planted a lot of perennials, so whomever lives here after, can enjoy them as much as we will! The townhouse to the right, is basically what ours looked like, before I got down and dirty this spring! ha ha

My sister had a bazillion hosta's sprouting in her backyard that she let me dig up and split for my own garden. Had I've bought them, it would've cost hundreds of dollars. (Thanks Tiff!!!) I planted them around the bushes in the front garden.
They won't get big this year, since I split them after they sprouted, BUT next year will be awesome! Hosta's are shade-loving and hardy. They are great for mid to northern areas of the US that don't get blistering hot sun all the time!

The backyard of our townhouse, is another story completely. It is shaded MOST of the time, but I still have some ideas! This small area is so ugly, and doesn't get much sun. I planted hosta's along the back row, and Moon flowers, and narcosis (both avid climbers) along the small fence line. I hate wire fencing, but flowers LOVE them. I can't change the fence, but I CAN cover it with flowers. They began sprouting this week, and by mid June should start climbing pretty aggressively!

This back wall is hideous. There is ivy that will cover it, and again I planted more climbers which have begun sprouting as well! I will take pictures, and these areas come to life!

Stuck In the Mudd

2011-05-26T11:20:00.001-05:00

The other morning I woke up to rumbling; my whole house was shaking! There were guys talking and chains clanking. When I looked out my window, all I could see was a massive tow truck.

Apparently a garbage truck got stuck in the mud at the end of the drive....he was REALLY stuck!

12 Weeks

2011-05-23T01:55:00.001-05:00

Here's a belly picture @ 12 weeks.
I am actually a couple of days away from 16 weeks or 4 months, so I will post a more recent one soon. Still haven't decided if we want to know the sex of the baby. With my first, there was no question! The appointment is on June 2nd, so we've got some time to decide!

Cierra goes to her dads on Tuesday, I have finals tomorrow evening (Monday). Lifes a bit chaotic at the moment. bluggity blah. Haven't been blogging (obviously), will soon though! (insert cheesy smile here)

Belly Boredum, Kirstie Alley and Fergie- don't hate!

2011-04-25T22:55:00.000-05:00

I will start taking belly pictures soon, but at the moment..there is nothing exciting to take a picture of. I am rounding the corner on 12 weeks (my Birthday), so I should start showing soon enough.

I remember when I was pregnant with Cierra, I wanted to LOOK pregnant for the longest time. I was a waitress at Chili's and a couple of the server's would never let me carry my own trays. The customers always looked a little confused! (shrug) They made me look like a dominatrix, forcing them to carry my trays. SO. NOT. The. Case!

I started showing with her at about 5 months. The first time a guy at work said, "Wow! you finally LOOK pregnant"... I cried. ha ha

And.... on a totally UN-related topic.... EVERY time I see Kirstie Alley, I think Fergie could be related to her.
Sssso, maybe I just needed a reason to post this picture of Fergie's Lego dress! ha ha Love!

The BEST Banana Bread Recipe Around

2011-04-12T11:36:00.000-05:00

So, I thought I'd share my banana bread recipe with you all. It was my Grandma's, mom's and now mine! (though I STILL think my mom's is better than mine...but things usually are when they are made FOR you)

Growing up, I never ate those store bought banana breads or muffins because they were SO nasty compared to my Mom and Grandma's banana bread! I remember as a little girl, hiding three bananas in the back of the pantry to ripen, so no-one would eat them..JUST so my mom would make banana bread! ha ha

That being said, here is the epic, heart attack, non-belly saving recipe! (Keep in mind, I grew up in Texas) lol.

The Only Banana Bread Recipe You'll Ever Need

3 ripe bananas, according to my mother...they can never be too ripe.
2c flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2c sugar
2 large eggs
2/3 c veg. oil or butter (I've been using Trader Joe's Irish sweet cream butter)
1 tsp. vanilla extract
If you like nuts in your bread, add 1/2 c. chopped walnuts or pecans!

I use a large loaf pan, pam and flour the sides of the pan, fill 3/4 full. Bake @350 for 45 to 50 minutes, until toothpick inserted in center comes out clear.

LA, San Diego, Ocean Beach Picturedom

2011-04-11T23:19:00.000-05:00

Here are some overdue pictures from our trip. I was NOT feeling good, so it turns out I didn't take as many pictures as I thought I did! (shrug)

The MOSt A-MAZING clouds, I've ever seen! It reminded me of Care Bears. Don't hate!

San Diego skyline from the ferry to Coronado Island.

Mohawk Pigeon

Mohawk Dog <3

Rod telling me, it's muddy.

It wasn't THAT muddy. :)

Me... flaunting my non-muddiness.

My boyfriend loves me, because he poses (I actually didn't think he'd do it)

So then, I had to take the same picture, only it wasn't half as torturous for me.

This is Ocean Beach, one of my favorite places. (maybe next time it will be hot and sunny!)

Big Fat Navy Vessel

The Starbucks people kept putting 'rob' for 'RoD's' name. It happened twice, so I HAD to take a picture. lol

That's pretty much all I've got...

It's Mrs. Smartypants to you!

2011-03-18T18:26:00.001-05:00

I just got the grade for my quantitative analysis class, which in real people language means wordy statistics problems put into fancy business charts to help people who may or may not know any better make a decision! My final grade was a 'B'! You. Can. ONLY. imagine how happy this makes me!

Not only that but I did so during a very hard couple of months! Know what I learned? A kickass tutor is priceless, and I really should give myself quite a bit more credit!

wooo hooo

Kiss Me I'm Pregnant!

2011-03-17T00:13:00.000-05:00

It is officially St. Patricks' Day.
I had grand plans of celebrating this St. Patrick's Day in light of my newly discovered Irish roots, but I will just have to save the green beers for next year! We're having a baby everybody!
Due date is to be determined, but should be closer to Halloween than Thanksgiving!

Oh, I AM SO EXCITED!

I work in 4.5 hours WAAAAAAA!

2011-03-06T01:51:00.000-06:00

It is officially Sunday morning, and though I WISH I've been up so late because of something OTHER than homework, I cannot tell a lie! My hell-a-cious Quantitative Analysis course ends in TWO weeks.

THANK. GAWD.

So far, it has officially been the hardest thing I've ever done in the HISTORY of grad school. That being said, when it's over, I am celebrating by taking my camera out, dusting it off and taking some pictures. I've been slacking in that department...seriously. slacking.

Plus I'm dragging Rod out of this state, to somewhere for a few days when C goes to her dads for spring break. It's ALSO long overdue!

Can't.

wait!

This is Rod and I's kissing stare off...in which I was cheating by closing my eyes. (The rule was 'no blinking' and my thought was...'it's hard to blink when you're eyes are closed') ha ha

I Groped Him First

2011-02-28T23:57:00.000-06:00

It is a strange thing when your little girl begins her not-so-giant leap into pre-teenism. Not the boy-crazy bullshit (yet)..but more like discovering how awesome it is to have friends that live down the street and wanting to be around them ALL. THE. TIME.
Cierra's new obsession is her little besties.

I took the girls to the movies last weekend and they screamed once they saw the life sized cut-out of Justin Bieber. I laughed to myself, since I groped him first. They were trying to convince the pimple faced ticket guy to sell it to them for their collective $3.76, and a half eaten bag of popcorn. He said 'Not for sale, I'm using him as a dart board as soon as the movie is out of the theater'. The girls just looked at him shrugged and walked away saying, "You're just jealous..you're just jealous, you're just jealous!" (In an overly annoying little girl unison) It was extremely entertaining. You have No idea.

They attempt to spend every waking hour of the weekend together (as if being in school together isn't enough). ha ha I sound like my mother...it. is. official.

On that note, I told my poor mom off last week. I've been stressed and have been holding off on that one for a while. Anyone who knows me well, knows that I do not possess the ability to hold things in like for any sustainable period of time gracefully. I really should work on that.

I digress.

Back to Justin Bieber... I love the kid. I love that he is so darn cute, that he was discovered on youtube and had a VERY funny stint with Tina Fey on SNL.
I am holding out for a post-puberty Justin Timberlakeish thing, but the ballots still out. Whatever. Don't hate. I groped him (life-sized cutout) first.

Valentines Caffeine Goodness

2011-02-19T10:41:00.000-06:00

It's always nice when something unexpected happens. Okay, maybe not ALWAYS...but mostly!

(Like when my bra busted halfway through my work shift and I didn't get paid till the next day to just go BUY one, so I made my co-worker staple it together). THAT was a time when the 'unexpected' sucked balls. ha ha

On Valentine's Day Rod, hand-delivered lunch and my most favorite coffee with the cheesiest Valentines stickers you've ever seen plastered to them both. :) It was unexpected and very nice. Plus I was starved and had a caffeine headache from hell!

I. Am. Amazing.

2011-02-12T00:02:00.000-06:00

I saw the following quote on (Ricky from CrossFit Omaha's blog) and thought it was funny.

"I have a problem with self-esteem at times, which is really ridiculous when you consider how amazing I am"

lol

I think I am amazing. It's true. This past week at work, we had to do self reviews. I never realized how awesome I think I am until I took a look at how everyone else rated themselves.(I'm nosey..don't hate!) Wow. Is. All. I. Could. Say.

I'm either one of those over-confident assholes, or everybody else needs to give themselves QUITE a bit more credit.

Enough about work!

You should all know that the weather is finally going to be ABOVE freezing for a GORGEOUS, SUNNY 50 degree Saturday, and, AND, AND..I AM OFF! Hoping the sun melts most of this ice and snow that is hanging around and also hoping to get a run in tomorrow afternoon outside, Oh Yeah! The Lincoln Half Marathon this year is on May 1st; I can't wait to beat last year's time!

Frieden

2011-02-03T23:38:00.000-06:00

Frieden means 'peace'. Things are a bit better now. I thought to myself a couple of days ago, “I am going to have peace even if I have to fight for it!” Turns out, I didn't need to fight at all. I just had to speak from my heart. I'm such a toughy most of the time and don't realize how it mostly isn't a good thing!

I think as a single mom, I've toughened myself up so that no-body can see I'm vulnerable. I've always wanted SO BADLY for my daughter to see my strength, that I forgot the fact that loving a man means letting your guard down sometimes.
Afterall... he still needs to be a man.

“Do not be afraid of showing your affection. Be warm and tender, thoughtful and affectionate. Men are more helped by sympathy, than by service; love is more than money, and a kind word will give more pleasure than a present.” - John Lubbock

What I Wake Up To, and Why My Boyfriend Thinks I'm Backwards.

2011-01-17T00:31:00.000-06:00

This is what I wake up to every morning: Cierra, who is much too awake!
(Don't think he was too thrilled about the flash) Good morning Sunshine!

Why my boyfriend thinks I'm backwards: It's because I think doing things like this... is perfectly acceptable.
Might I note: It has been this way since I broke the head off with the front door before Thanksgiving, when I dropped a frozen turkey on my foot. SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!

I think I'm funny, and quite frankly that's what matters to me at the moment.On that note...reverse zen..is still zen!

Photobooth

2011-01-17T00:15:00.000-06:00

There is a photobooth in the middle of the mall. Before Christmas, Rod and I squeezed in (those things are ridiculously small... just sayin'! We made our faces, took our pictures and stepped out to await our photo's. The people walking by were laughing, because there was a live video re-playing of us actually taking the pictures, obscenities, nose picking, joking and all! Ha ha

Me + It's Cold Outside = Lazy Blogger

2011-01-16T23:47:00.000-06:00

It's officially winter in Omaha. Last week we got DUMPED on; can't complain though because last year was. absolutely. horrid. with snow.

This year, snow hasn't been half bad. It really is pretty...

Cierra had her first snowdays last Monday and Tuesday, so according to her it is officially winter! I go into hibernation when it is this cold out. Cold weather for me, usually results in people calling in at work. It also means hours are cut when profits are low. In short, it means stress. for. meeeeee! I still like the snow though (but mainly because I love hats, leg warmers and boots).

I started classes again this week, which means I will be blogging again! (You can tell this is true because it is almost midnight, and I've rewarded my finished homework with a bloggity blog entry.

I don't think I ever posted pictures from the shoot I did of my Uncle and his family before Christmas. I had a lot of fun editing these!
Here are a few from that set; enjoy!

!

Morningtime, Morning joggers and General Morning cheery-ness

2010-12-13T23:47:00.000-06:00

I USED to be a morning person, and still consider myself so when I'm not burning the midnight oil...like.... all. the. time.

I think jogging is healthy, just not morning jogging. If morning joggers knew how tempting they looked to morning motorists, they would stay home and do sit-ups.

I have a "carpe diem" mug and, truthfully, at six in the morning the words do not make me want to seize the day. They make me want to slap a dead poet. ~Joanne Sherman

I actually have grown to enjoy running/ jogging. However, part of my despise in the morning is probably because I'm not the one out there doing it (in below freezing weather)! I see those of you who ARE, and even though I want to run you over so early in the morning, it is only because I admire your dedication!

Don't be a jerk..It's Christmas!

2010-12-11T23:51:00.000-06:00

Things are busy and crazy and busy! I have a final exam literally the week before Christmas, making my final paper due at that time as well. Tis the season right?

So far so good.

I took pictures of the house all decorated for Christmas for you, but still need to upload! Also did another photo shoot today, I started editing and will post those soon! Will post soon enough; I SWEAR!

As you all know, I am a retail manager. People have a way of bringing out their true colors at Christmas, when I heard this; I HAD to post! Not only is it funny, but I love Lego's and Spongebob equally!
Anyhauser,
Enjoy. More will follow soon enough!

Please vote for my picture!

2010-12-10T01:46:00.000-06:00

http://contest.shutterfly.com/contests/showentry/654613

Christmas Card Picture al la Jen

2010-12-03T10:57:00.000-06:00

I usually pride myself on my personalized Christmas card photo's that don't really look 'homemade'. I skipped last year, so THIS year had to be rad!

Last year was shit, by early December I hadn't been promoted yet and was B-ROKE. Cierra didn't have a Birthday Party, and the only reason I put a tree up was because my mother bought one for us!

In contrast; This year has been really good. Getting things back to normal sometimes seemed like a long journey, but before I knew it, things were looking up!

It makes me so very grateful for my family and friends. Never stop hoping, never stop being positive (which is sometimes easier said than done) and never stop loving!

I digress (or should I say.... I ramble...) lol

Here is our family Christmas Card. Photoshopped by yours truly!

Photoshop Shiz: I put a Christmas bow on the box, in the picture of Rod and I. Then created a layer out of the sunglasses, so when I was finished layering Rod and I onto the lenses, I could overlay an opaque layer, giving the illusion of mirrored lenses. Using the image of Rod and I; I doubled over the picture onto Cierra's lenses and used layering mask to crop out the background behind us. Finally I dragged the lenses layer over the cropped image of us and put the opacity down to 18%. viola!
And here is the randomage that got us to that point:

Peace, Love and Justin Bieber.

2010-11-29T17:44:00.000-06:00

Peace love and Justin Bieber.

Yesterday was a long day. It is Christmas at ULTA, which means extended hours and spending more time at work than I do at home. C's at her dads for Thanksgiving and is going to be home tomorrow, so I wanted to go DOOO something. Decided to go to Burlesque with the girls last night after work, simply because I could. The movie was a mix between Coyote Ugly and Chicago. I am absolutely in LUST with all the yummy make-up, wigs and costumes, though the story itself was pretty predictable.

At the theater there was a life-size Justin Bieber poster, begging me to take a picture with him.

Oh. yes. he. begged.

I obliged. duh.

Valency Fabulous

2010-11-27T14:12:00.000-06:00

I have the bestest bestie in the world. It makes me sad that we live so far away, but glad that both of us are so well 'connected' that I can stalk her whenever I want! When I got home from work tonight, THIS was waiting for me.

I ADORE Bestey Johnson, like...A-LOT! Valency sent me a Betsey Johnson camera necklace!!!!!

Yay yay yay! swoon.

I collect camera necklaces and they are becoming harder and harder to find!

What you need to know is that Valency is SO fabulous that Betsey Johnson herself wears a Valency Fabulous top.

It's exclusive...you won't find a Valency Fabulous top anywhere....unless, of course you are Betsey Johnson!

I got a bright red rose ring to match my new, red full-color lip gloss (Pur Minerals 'Deep Amethyst'). Yup, yup ...
As much as I'd love to stay and chat, I has papers waiting to be typed!

Pictures from Cierra's Fall Set

2010-11-15T01:52:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures from the fall shoot of Cierra.

Enjoyage!

My Boyfriend and My Current State of Bliss

2010-11-14T17:55:00.000-06:00

Love isn't a decision,it's a feeling.

If we could decide who to love,

then, life would be much simpler,

but then less magical.

Okay, first you must know that I ADORE my boyfriend. Living together has been strengthening,interesting, hard, entertaining, and comforting all in one. My boyfriend considers HD tv, oceans (and stuff like that) to be the most important time of the day.

I need lots of attention, so I've thought about dressing up like a piece of plankton for his entertainment, only I'm not so sure he'd find the humor in that at the moment.

He is SOOOO not perfect. JUST. LIKE. ME. I like him that way though, mainly because perfect would be oh-so-Boring. (I'm yawning just thinking about it...seriously) He challenges me every. single. day.

I'm sure I do my share of challenging him as well. Correction...I KNOW I do. I'm not that easy to be with.

I feel like I've never had assurance in a relationship, accept from him ...in high school. (But does that count? hmmp)

With my ex-husband and two boyfriends, I didn't always have that. I didn't always have comfort, or the assurance of knowing that there is someone there on my side. My ex-husband was/is a good man, but he was gone most of the time. We married because we were pregnant and then he cheated on me. My major relationship after that was bi-polar, selfish, needy and chemically dependant on everything and anything that could stimulate his purpose (which I'm not fully sure he ever came to realize). I tried to help him; Turns out I should've left the fixing to the professionals.

Finally, the police officer was horrible with money, a bad pet owner and needed approval from everybody that he came in contact with. He was not for me, obviously.

All that being said, I am flawed. I have baggage, but what 30 year old woman doesn't these days?

I cling abnormally to what people tell me they will do, particularly my poor boyfriend. It could be something as small as picking up a towel, be assured if he promised to do it...AND did'nt... I take notice.

Isn't love grand? ha ha

Conversations With My Brother

2010-11-14T17:34:00.000-06:00

My youngest brother and his family moved away so he could pursue his Pro golf card. He's is about to spend the next year in Orlando to finish the process. He is the youngest of my three other siblings and I miss him and his family very much.

My brother: Hey! We'll be in town next week, can't wait to see you!

Me: I know you can't...I'm your favorite. lol

My brother: Some things never change, ha ha What's new with you, feels like I haven't talked to you in forever...

Me: Nothing, honestly. Same shiz, only I'm back taking classes.

My brother: Lame. Are you sure there is nothing new... it's been like.. two months since we talked.

Me: Yup. Well, ACTUALLY, there IS one thing.

My brother: What?!

Me: I got my period; that's pretty exciting

Ha ha I win!

Peace, Love and Lettuce

2010-11-14T02:03:00.000-06:00

Today, Ada the guinea pig died. It was sad, she was sick and there was nothing we could do about it. Lame.

I wanted to post a picture or two of her for you, but my external hard drive housing just about EVERY picture from the past four years is NO-where to be found. It makes me crazy.

I digress.

THIS is the link to a post in April I did for the pigs.

Farewell Ms. Ada Pig, peace, love and lettuce.

Shutterfly Photo Contest Goodness

2010-11-13T22:05:00.000-06:00

Hello All,

I entered a Holiday photo contest via shutterfly. The entry is photo I took and edited of my daughter. Please vote for meeeee, and tell your friends to vote for meeeee. lol Please? and Thank you!

http://contest.shutterfly.com/contests/showentry/654613
I'll post a video of the whole set shortly; they turned out fan-tastic!

Here is one of me...because I rarely take pictures of me...because I don't like it that much. haha

Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T01:42:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures from Halloween night. Cierra's flower costume turned out perfect! She was wearing gigantic fake eye lashes, urban decay primer potion, and MAC eye color/ liquid liner. I sewed the knotted yard onto her green shirt and then sewed the leaves on, so it would look like a stem!
To top it off, I stuck fake grass into her uggs.!

I was Flo, the Progressive girl. ha ha

These guys were parked in front of their house with a smoke machine and old school saloon music. It was soo cool. Cierra wouldn't get candy, nor would I FOR her. (BUT I sure as hell took a picture!) I love our neighborhood! ;)

This family moved in this summer. We see this dog all around Dundee. Now we know where he lives! I think next year, they should paint him red so he could go as Clifford the Big Red Dog!

Pictures From the Family Shoot

2010-10-31T11:53:00.000-05:00

Houdini Halloweeni

2010-10-31T11:49:00.000-05:00

Cierra just told me that Houdini died on Halloween.

I didn't know that, did you?

I think it's pretty interesting!

I love that my daughter knows useless information...it'sa life skill, just sayin'.

You Can't Wear That till You Get Your Period....

2010-10-27T19:04:00.000-05:00

SO this past weekend, our friends had a last minute Halloween shin-dig. Since Halloween isn't officially until this next weekend, Rod and I had to make an emergency trip with Cierra to the Halloween store.

As we walked up to the door, Cierra said, "Mom, we don't have to look because I want to be THAT pirate for Halloween, okay?"

clears throat

There was a lifesize window cling of a stripperesque pirate costume. No doubt it was hot...but C is NINE! lol

Sometimes, okay maybe most of the time, I say things without even thinking about it.

"You can't wear that until you get your peroiod." lol

C just shrugged and kept walking.

My comment completely backfired when she ran up while loud and excitedly asking, "Can I start wearing mascara when I get my period as well?". We talk about that shit like we talk about the weather. I forget that most people do not. Needless to say, I got a horrified look from the father in the aisle next to me with two girls under the age of six. ha ha

We ended up finding an appropriate pirate costume and Rod found himself a costume as well. lol Here are some pictures! Aarg!
Hands off ladies, he's ALL mine!

I had to work,. Lame.

I Like a Challenge...It's In My Nature

2010-10-16T01:37:00.000-05:00

IUD No Mas, Work, School, and Oh My Gawd I found a Therapist

For the record, I think the Merena IUD is the BEST birth control method EVER. I had the old school one before that...it was eew. BUT the Mirena is fantastic. Last week I had mine removed because its time was up last month. I can't believe it's been five years already. Not gonna lie, I have mixed feelings about it being gone. I kind of want it back, like a three year old wants her pacifier that she can't have anymore! LOL Who would've thought that my IUD would be some sort of security blanket?! ha ha

Work. Is. Good. Shipments and merchandising are my babies. Both...for Christmas, start in exactly 1 week! yay yay yay! I like a challenge, it's in my nature.

I've got a pretty massive photo shoot tomorrow, I'm excited. I'll post pictures soon! It is a huge family. I'm shooting it at Elmwood Park on the University of Nebraska at Omaha campus. I am a little nervous, because anytime there are that many people; it can be a bit chaotic. I already established that I will be the only 'cook in the kitchen', so I am crossing my fingers that everything goes smoothly.

As for school, I am starting classes again next week; it HAS to be done. This means I will blog more, since I use it as a personal bribe to myself for completing homework. whatever, works: don't hate!

I found a therapist/ life coach and am pretty excited. "I like a challenge...it's in my nature'....has something to do with the reason I want to speak to a therapist! I have my girls, and my Rod...but this is simply me doing something for me...which I am becoming better and better at.

Pumpkin Carving Party Pictures

2010-10-13T02:01:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures, in no particular order!

Rod, Cierra and I hosted a Pumpkin carving Party at our house last week. We carved and then ate till we couldn't eat 'no mo'. ha ha

We went to The Bellevue Berry farm for pumpkins.

We stopped in the lobby of the art store for pictures with the Grim Reaper! lol (pumpkin carving parties would be a bust without a giant bag of tea lights! Clearly.)

We were laughing because my five year old niece carved a little girl with a bob into her pumpkin. Once we lit all the pumpkins, we realized it didn't quite LOOk like a little girl when it was lit..... SO.....We called it the penis pumpkin.

Happy Pumpkin Carving!

My Halloween Costume is...

2010-10-06T20:21:00.000-05:00

Oh! I Cannot WAIT to show you all my Halloween costume. ha ha It is AB. SO. LUTELY. PERFECT!

It isn't sexy, and not predictable and it IS warm (kinda) and it will totally win a contest.

Cierra is going to be a flower...here is the sketch of the idea and, with my makeup skills and flower that will make it happen!

My Voicebox is Juiced and Other Random Stuff

2010-10-03T01:18:00.000-05:00

Today is the first day in a week that my voice is back. Yay! Loosing your voice is horrible, especially when you are ME!

The doctor gave me steroids (MethylPREDNISolone) to help it come back; they were equally horrible. I felt like I had morning sickness every time I took them. blech. I do not like them... AT. ALL.

The first day that I completely lost my voice was at the wedding last weekend. I am a freelance make-up artist. It is my favorite kind of 'work'. I tried calling Lace for directions to the cabin where everyone was getting ready, but she couldn't hear me!!!! After a little mini heart attack, I found it on my own...but was about ten minutes late! When I finally walked in and attempted to talk, she said, "OH my GAWD Jen... was that you on the phone? You creeped me out! I thought it was a prank call!" She went on to say that my voice was very Horror film fabulous. lol

Here is Lacy after I did her makeup; we went for a natural smoky eye. She looked beautiful!

Rod and I went to the wedding and reception, though we both should've just stayed in since he was horribly hungover and I was sick, sick, sick! We looked good though; agreed?! (this is a picture of a picture of us from the wedding) lol

Good times!

I can't believe it is already October and we've been in our house for almost two months! Here it was then: (well, the dining room anyway)

Here it is now! We've been busy and I absolutely LOVE my boyfriend for putting up the wine rack under the martini canvas! le sigh.

Oh! and I did the black cardboard thingy to the windows to decorate for Halloween they look super great! The tree is just two pieces of black poster board taped together. I sketched out a tree, cut it out and then taped it to the window. The spiders are from the Martha Stewart cheater Halloween window decor line at Michael's for 5 bucks (unless you use your 40% off coupon like I did! I love coupons! Anyway, when the lights are on in the house, it looks super creepy-cute! yay!

And....We Have Internets Again! Yay!

2010-09-24T22:33:00.000-05:00

Our house is pretty old. It has high ceilings, fancy schmancy door knobs on every door, wood moulding everywhere and a very. smally. kitchen. I LOVE it. (pictures to follow...soon, swear)

When the Internet lady came to hook up the modem and connection, the only working phone line was in Cierra's room. Cierra is nine and has a massively huge extended family. That being said, I accidentally tossed a blanket over the modem while covering up my niece. Apparently modems don't like to be cozy under a blanket.

A-ny-Way I have Internet again.

Things are getting to be hectic, as they do when the Holidays approach and school is in session. I will get pictures up sooner than later. Swear!

Rod and I are going to a wedding tomorrow. We haven't dressed to the nines to go anywhere since prom; I LOVE dressing up! yay yay yay! (I am doing the brides makeup on site. It won't be hard, Lacy is the counter manager for Dior and is absolutely gorgeous to begin with. Can't wait!)

It should be a good time!

We've got a pumpkin carving party coming up in a couple of weeks, which is always chaotically fun! The house is all decorated for Halloween (almost). I bought black poster-board to cut out tree branches with hanging bats (not birds that are pictured below). I will tape the pieces to the windows so that when the lights are on, it looks like shadows through the front windows. :) I love that shit!

Expectations are the Bollocks

2010-09-04T03:23:00.000-05:00

I work at a salon, so there is an over. abundance. of magazines. Seriously.

I read magazines backwards, mainly because the articles seem a bit condescending.(Or I was Asian in my past life.)

The articles....can I vent?

Nothing in life can be decided by a list or a quiz (though it is fun to pretend that it's that easy).

There is no ultimate answer, just people making money pretending that there is.

I believe that the choices you make and the chances you take and the courage you are willing to show are what make you as a person.

If you aren't happy....do something about it already. I think it really is that simple. Sheesh.

On a completely different note I LOVE this scarf on Etsy.( I have blog ADD, don't hate).

Maybe I can con Rod's sister into teaching me how to knit...THAT is a possibility.

Oh! and my ex-husband got re-married today/yesterday. I'm happy, she's rad. (I have guilt over telling him I didn't love him... yes. I did.) I'm just happy he finally found his 'one'.

My turn!

Dear Blo....

2010-08-22T02:10:00.000-05:00

Dear blog readers,

You can assume several things from the lack of blogging recently.

Mainly:

1) I love Rod and my Cierra and our new little Townhouse. le sigh

2)I (still) hate moving and am STILL unpacking stuff.

3)I love my job (still) and am very very busy lately. Fall color is out people, NEXT is Christmas. (Stop wincing, it really looks horrible and causes wrinkles! Retail Christmas begins in October...a little over ONE month away) ha ha

3)Rod and I painted every room in the house and moved our stuff before going to work for seven days in a row (both of us); which makes me more forgetful and less hyperactive than normal (yes it happens).

Painted finger.

4)Cierra is back in school and my brain is still in shock from burning my candle at both ends.

5)Rod and I work opposing shifts every other week, boooo hiss. My schedule is alll sortsa messed up! I miss him.

6) Remember the wedding pictures from over a week ago, yup...Still need to edit them. Joyous.

7) Insert fist pump here. I spend my lazy time....not blogging, or unpacking, or doing anything other than watching my beloved DVR'd Jersey Shore, Rescue Me and other brainless t.v.

Blogging will resume shortly,SWEAR!

I Caught the Bouquet Bitches!

2010-08-08T21:03:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I did makeup and pictures at Renee and Mike's wedding. It was perfection, even though being the wedding photographer stresses me out!

The day started with Beer for Breakfast with my Rod (I told you I was a good cook; ha ha!)and ended with a bangin' reception!

I Caught The Bouquet Bitches!

I'll post some of the pictures after I put a dent in editing. Editing...ugg

On the upside of up; We're moving this week and I am OH! SOOO Excited! (This says A LOT since I despise moving with a bloody passion).

2010-08-06T04:03:00.001-05:00

Life is One Big WTF Moment....(short for : one big late night psycho babble. Don't Hate.)

2010-07-15T01:35:00.000-05:00

Sometimes it's the WTF moments that snap us back to the reality that is "Hey Turd, you are wasting your energy going the wrong way for?"

Like the time I dated a guy for two years, knowing damn well he was not EVEN the one for me. He asked me to marry him....twice....and I said no...BOTH times. It took the second ,"No" before my WTF moment happened.

There was also the many, many times I spent hours trying to make every body ELSE happy. Just in case you didn't know; I mascarade as Wonder Woman, so when I say everybody...I MEAN everybody!

It took a totally exhausted me quite a few WTF moments to figure out that being happy myself is really the ONLY way that everybody ELSE can be happy to!

I can't tell you how many times I've asked myself, "What if I did things differently". We all have exact points in our lives where one single decision changed everything.

In saying that...I've decided that I don't regret one. single. thing.

The journey of getting to where we are now is kind of fabulous!

Ya know?

My Patio Garden

2010-07-14T21:58:00.001-05:00

This is my little patio garden. There are mainly just different varieties of tomatoes and a bunch of herbs.

More Sand Volleyball Pictures

2010-07-03T11:07:00.000-05:00

My Mouth Has No Filter

2010-07-02T00:40:00.000-05:00

I'd like to believe I am getting better at thinking BEFORE I speak, but in all honesty I still think my mouth has no filter. I think it's a genetic disorder. Tonight I expanded a bit more than I intended to......WAAAAAY MORE....on a date.

I am pretty sure I TOLD him he was my boyfriend, I am also pretty sure I TOLD him I want (more) kids and I don't care if it happened soon. As if THAT weren't enough, I COMPLETELY put him on the spot about the possibility of living together and his relationship before me.

(shakes head)

Any normal guy, would've left RUNNING. Lucky for me, he's not a runner.

Truth be told, I do call him my boyfriend. It is easier that way. I speak with hundreds of people every day and don't think perfect strangers need to know the complexity of my relationships.

As for the babies, I should've kept that one to myself (so clearly). It's just that he's sooooo very dreamy, kind, animated, funny,and patient. I think he'd be a wonderful father; did I mention...dreamy? Anyhauser, yep...should've kept that one to myself.

The living together thing...well, I just honestly wanted to know what he thought. I'm not trying to give up my closet and girly bathroom or anything. Plus, everybody knows I DESPISE moving.

As for asking about the relationship before me...curiosity kills and that is yet another thing I should've probably kept to myself at the moment.

On that note, the cat is out of the bag; my mouth has no filter.

Imagine.

That.

For the Love of....

2010-07-02T00:18:00.001-05:00

Will somebody justify my thought process when it comes to 'diet' drinks?

Here's the deal. I put Splenda in coffee and tea to sweeten, if I must. Sugary shiz makes me breakout..SWEAR. I drink diet everything, so that I won't drink my calories. I'd MUCH rather EAT them, clearly.

The exceptions, however, are vast.

For. Instance. IF the drink is frozen (icee), THEN it is perfectly OKAY. Also, while I am at it; IF the drink has alcohol in it; THEN it is also OKAY!

Breakfast of Champions

2010-06-25T12:03:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I ate Target popcorn and an Icee for breakfast. My store is right next to Target; needless to say this happens more times than not! Don't hate!

I was incredibly hungover.

Raccoonage

2010-06-25T11:56:00.000-05:00

I live in older apartments. These apartments are actually the same ones that my parents first moved into before they bought their first house in Old Town Bellevue, NE over 30 years ago.

That being said, here is a picture that I took a couple of weeks back. The raccoon was living in the balcony of the apartment directly across from mine. He was like a cartoon and would lazily lounge in plain view right before the sun would set.

Random Sand Volleyball Pictures

2010-06-21T07:32:00.000-05:00

I play sand volleyball every Friday night; it is so much fun! I need to take more pictures; I've been serioulsy slacking in that department FOR REAL!

For Some Things There Are No Words

2010-06-21T06:51:00.000-05:00

For some things there are no words, but today I will try to explain!

My step-mom always says, "Let it go and set it free, if it comes back (he or she), it is meant to be."

I always shrugged it off...until this weekend.

The only man I've ever truly loved came into my life again this weekend. He spoke to me from his heart about our falling out last summer. He apologized and melted me all over again. We are giving it another go...one day at a time. I normally don't blog about this stuff, BUT this is the exception.

"Love comes to those who still hope although they've been disappointed, to those who still believe although they've been betrayed, to those who still love although they've been hurt before."

Tornado Ride

2010-06-21T06:34:00.000-05:00

www.tacoride.com

There is a bicycle ride every Thursday called the Taco Ride. It is a 20 mile bike ride on the Wabash Trail in Iowa. The Taco Ride includes getting a little sweaty and then drinking some beers (and eating tacos') with friends.

This past Thursday, my friend Renee and I went (she was a Taco Ride virgin). It was suppose to storm; it was sunny at 6 so we said, "Bump it....we're going. A little rain never hurt anybody!"

We were in a Tornado watch, so the ride was endearingly called the 'Tornado Ride'. lol

Needless to say, on the way back, three miles in, IT POURED! I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. There was MUD EVERYWHERE!

The Night I Burnt My Boob and Failed My Own Diversion.

2010-06-16T01:05:00.000-05:00

The night I burnt my boob and failed my own diversion.

This was a glorious night. (there was hallelujah music and everything) Here is why:

I went on a date with THE most beautiful man I have ever laid my eyes on. I call him Mexico City, because that is where he is from. He is ummm maybe 6'4" with the darkest brown eyes you've ever seen. A goatee frames his mouth perfectly. Going into this date I knew two things. I WAS going to kiss those lips and I was most definitely NOT going to sleep with him. After all, what kind of girl sleeps with the most beautiful man she's ever seen on her first date?

That being said, I had to give myself a diversion.

Yup. My Very own diversion plan.

My Diversion Plan:

1. DO NOT shave legs. Hairy legs are gross; you'll never sleep with a guy if your legs are hairy.

2. Do NOT clean your apartment. Leave laundry all over the bed so there is no chance of bringing him home and holding him hostage in that very BED!

The only problem with my diversion plan is that I have ZERO self-control in the correct circumstances and the circumstances this night were definitely correct.

dun,dun,dun

We met for our date at the perfect little lounge. It was a Monday night; no-body was there accept for us and a creepy young guy at the bar. We were at a high-top table sitting right next to each other. We began talking about where we grew up, how we both got to Omaha, when, where and why. I told him about my Cierra and then asked him how old he was. "Age is only a number", he said (in a DIVINE accent)

For the record, I have six years on him AND could care less.

The night moved on, the conversation got even better and before I knew it we were at my apartment. The minute Gorgeous went in the bathroom I quickly shoved everything in sight into the nearest closet. It was ridiculous, really. The whole time I was cursing myself for not knowing myself better. I never let a pile of laundry stop me from doing anything else....why would Mr. Mexico City be any different? lol

Once Mr. Mexico City was out of the bathroom, I told him about my diversion plan. He laughed and said, "You think too much".

Ummm YA THINK?

I planted him on the couch, with a drink and the remote and headed to the bathroom to SHAVE my goddamn legs. While the tub was filling up, I cleaned some more. ha ha

Once my legs were shaved the rest was history until we made it into my room. Mr. Mexico proceeded to whisper that he couldn't see very well and wanted some light, so he could vividly remember everything. I ran out to my living room, pulled the table lamp out of the socket and brought it to my room to plug in. While bending over it, to plug it in...I BURNT MY BOOB! This whole night was a big fat comedy of errors.

IF I never saw him again....I would still always remember.....the night I burnt my boob and failed my own diversion.

Here is the lamp(I must've dented to shade when I jumped from the burn):
Here is the burn 24 hours later, blister included.

Dear Toothfairy

2010-06-13T01:20:00.001-05:00

I can't believe I didn't share this with you all!!! My Cierra goes to her dads every summer. The week before, she lost a tooth; the following is the letter she left for the toothfairy, under her pillow, WITH her tooth!

Ghostrider

2010-06-10T13:49:00.000-05:00

My bike is still broke! I bought her back in December in the middle of the blizzard. I couldn't ride it till late spring when all the snow and ice melted.
In the past three months I managed to bend the rear derailer, (thanks to a dump with my Cierra on the trail-a-bike), stretch the cables and abuse her in other unimaginable ways. I called her Ghostrider for the past few weeks, because she would ghost shift at the worse possible times! That being said, she's been in the shop for almost a week now. Boooooo

I REALLY want to invest in a road bike, so I can start commuting. I can commute on my Myca, but she isn't too streamline...or light. My inspiration: Sarah from Greenstreet Cycles and great legs

All the single ladies....

2010-06-10T01:10:00.000-05:00

Yes, I am single.

It was my decision. I wasn't even sad; that is how I know that I made the right decision....just sayin'

If you don't have anything nice to say....

2010-05-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm back.

The last month has been interesting to say the least. It started out good, but somewhere in the middle just got plain yucky! My mom would always tell us, "If you don't have anything nice to say; don't say anything at all", although holding my thoughts on the tip of my tongue was never my strong point! I tend not to blog when I'm 'in a mood'! I also tend not to blog when my wireless connection is down. I was trying to save money and go without an internet connection for the summer; who was I kidding? I didn't even last a whole month!

And...magic

2010-05-19T23:59:00.000-05:00

And....here is where the magic happens. My make-up station is on the floor. lol Isn't it grand?
Magic. This is where the magic happens!

See? Magic. lol
All this magic, JUST to have a tipped pallet waiting in the morning! Yay! :)

Marathon Pictures

2010-05-19T23:23:00.001-05:00

This is my, "Don't take a picture of me" face!

These are my Birthday shoes. Todd's parents gave them to me for my Birthday.

This is me at mile ummmm 10 or 11ish. ;)
I don't have finish line pictures yet, but it was pretty amazing! The finish line was on the 50yard line of Memorial Stadium. This is me with my first Half Marathon medal, my pink "Birthday Girl" pin, and my prize banana (it was sooo good).
Seriously.....I DO NOT wanna hear excuses as to why it is you can't run...Look at this!!!!

Belated Birthday Cupcakes

2010-05-19T23:17:00.000-05:00

The Friday night before my Birthday (almost a month ago) fell on a sand volleyball night. My yummy friend Sony made me some truffle infused chocolate cupcakes. they were DIVINE! Here are some pictures!

Lincoln Half Marathon

2010-05-04T02:21:00.000-05:00

I DID IT! On my 31st Birthday, I ran 13.1 for the first time in my life!

The Lincoln Half Marathon was on May 2nd! It was A-MAZING to run with over 6,000 other runners. They were all different shapes, sizes and ages. My weekly long runs were up to 8-10 miles before I tapered two weeks ago. My legs are still REALLY sore, due to the massive Hill at mile 9. If you've ever thought about running a 10k or Half Marathon, all i can say is, DO IT! It will be the most rewarding feeling you've experienced. Besides, once you reach a certain age, 'firsts' of anything become fewer and fewer!

About the marathon;I have a lot to be happy about.

1. I was aiming at a 10min/ per mile pace and I DID it! My end time was 2:22, which works out to be a 10.8 min mile!

2. I have no blisters.

3. Todd went up with me on Saturday, he drove us, took lots of pictures, cheered for me at mile 11 AND fed me! Be jealous....be very jealous! ;)

4. I have no foot pain, because of my new shoes (Todd's parents bought me some nice new Saucony's a couple weeks ago for my Birthday; they were a Godsend).

5. My Pandora wasn't working, so I ran the whole thing without music...and still made the pace I was aiming for. Never thought it possible until I did it!

6. Becci, whom I work with ended up being the only other one, out of the original 6 that ran as well. It was nice to leave the start line with someone!7. My bib number was 5367. (I kept telling Todd that number sounded familiar and I couldn't figure out why.. He started singing "867-5309, Jenny I got your number...I'm gonna make you mine" ha ha He was RIGHT that was why it sounded familiar! I had that song in my head the whole run!

The Omaha Marathon is in September. I would really, really like to run the full marathon here in Omaha for a cause. My family would be here to cheer, they are big enough and I'm sure they'd park it every few miles to cheer! With C at her dad's for most of the summer, getting the long runs in won't be an issue. I'd like to run it for a cause though. More on that later....

Weird Day

2010-04-26T23:53:00.000-05:00

Today was weird. It felt like slow motion blank blech...if that's a feeling at all.

The weather felt like England in November, only with a lot more wind and no yummy cheese and bread.

Cierra gave me hell this morning, because she is getting harder and harder to wake up in the morning. Work DRAGGED and one a girl I am not so fond of stopped by to say 'hi'. uggg. The high point was talking to Todd, even though that brought bad news. To end the day properly, I just got woken up by my mom calling to say she has three blown tires and she's waiting for a tow truck. She called my little brother, he was there with her...so yeah. weird. day. ugg

I talked to Todd this morning to find out that his old partner Kirk Tynes lost his battle with stomach cancer.

The last conversation I had with Kirk involved him being amused that I said 'Yes!' to everything he said. I told him I was a 'yes' woman, lol. This went on all night. Out of nowhere he'd go, "Isn't that right Jen?" and every time, I'd say Yes!

Then he'd say, "Bless you woman and laugh".

I am okay, because in the short time that I knew Kirk, I made him laugh....I made him laugh hard.

Laughter is the best medicine...it is medicine for the soul. Now if I can just make my Cierra laugh in the morning; I'll give the weird day vibe a big fat kick in the pants!

I am missing Sebastian today... a lot.

Course Map Lincoln Half

2010-04-26T09:02:00.001-05:00

In five days I'll be heading to Lincoln. wooo hooo

I've been taking it easy this week. Walked this morning and will do a slow six mile run on Tuesday. Cannot WAIT! (even though it is suppose to RAIN!)

I will blog more this week, I HAVE to tell you all what Todd's parents did for my Birthday.

Blurry Baby Noah Video

2010-04-22T09:47:00.000-05:00

Here is me playing with my nephew Noah. He's so chunky and giggly, I just LOVE it! My mom took the video with her Blackberry; so don't hate on the blurriness! Yay Mom!

Rainshoes, Snowshoes

2010-04-22T09:32:00.000-05:00

I don't know why it is; but I have problems wearing the correct shoes for the weather. lol See?

I wore flip flops yesterday, even though I knew it was going to storm. I wore my kitten heel pointy shoes in two feet of snow earlier this year and now all I'm missing is Uggs in the summer. lol

Dear in Chalco Hills...Among Other Things

2010-04-22T09:19:00.000-05:00

Running Chalco hills the other day, there was a HUGE buck in the middle of the trail. By the time I snapped the picture, he was with his family, far from me! It was VERY cool! :)

You'll have to click on the picture to see them! :)

And.....Cierra demonstrating the correct way to wear a bike helmet as a 'bug costume'! ha ha I love that she is such a nut!

Lunch with my Sister

2010-04-22T09:01:00.000-05:00

Last week, on one of my days off, Tiff, baby Noah and I went for a walk in The Old Market district (Omaha, Ne). I forgot how much I adore the Old Market in the spring and summer. After our long walk, we went to Spaghetti Works for some whole wheat pasta and marinara. The weather was PERFECT! The food isn't the best Italian I've ever had, but the whole wheat pasta is the best in Omaha. Plus it's a bit sentimental; I have so many memories in that particular place. My sister wouldn't let me take pictures of her, so enjoy the ones I DID take! lol

Noah's big, massive, man stroller fit between the bench and the railing like a glove!

We bore him....clearly!

Life Pauses, My Big Fat Blister and My Nails Have Their Own Life Cycle.

2010-04-15T20:54:00.000-05:00

Today is Thursday. It has been a very busy week!

I had to call in to work to pick Cierra up from school. I am hoping that my boss will let me use a sick day; we shall see. I never call in sick, but when being a single momma calls...I don't have a choice in the matter! Sometimes, life pauses JUST when you need it to!

This morning was my long run, as you saw by my girl scout cookie post. I ran the Keystone Trail 'Bellevue Loop' and a couple miles of the Keystone Trail South. I thought it was just 10 miles, but ended up closer to 11 (since my map remembering skills are rusty and I cannot run with my laptop). At the beginning of the trail there was this big bike parts pyramid thingy. Though today was a good run, I probably won't run this route again. The trail is between freshly manured corn fields. It smelled SO bad for the first five miles that I almost puked. The smells went from wet swamp, to dog food, to poo, to a weird beef jerky smell. BLECH!

Behold! Cow Poop fields that produce the best corn you've ever tasted, out of the worse smelling fields your nose has ever had the pleasure of smelling.

I ran the WHOLE way! It is such a big accomplishment for me. I honestly don't think I've ever been this satisfied by anything I've pushed myself to do.....EV-ER.

After today, I feel super excited about the half marathon. I am even more excited since I talked to my mom and sister; they are going to wake up, drive to Lincoln and go to Memorial Stadium fifty yard line, where the finish line is to cheer for me. I didn't think anybody was going to be at the finish line to hug my sweaty butt when I was done (that made me alota sad).

Either way...I'm doing this for me.

Somewhere in the past three years or so, I lost focus of myself and the power to make things happen. I've learned a lot about myself this year alone that I forgot was there. I feel stronger and happier than I have ever been.

blah blah blah I digress.

I NEED new running shoes BAD! This is what happened to my toe, post-run.Lucky for me, my boyfriend most definitely does NOT have a foot fetish. I'm coming to realize that runners feet are kinda gross. (although I do not consider myself a 'runner'....yet)

My cuticles and nails are disastrous at the moment. They don't look that bad in this picture, but TRUST..they have their own life cycle (even with my beloved nail envy)

Running. What's my Motivation? Girlscout Cookies.

2010-04-14T22:48:00.000-05:00

Lately, before my long run, the night before; I eat one thin mint girl scout cookie for every mile I will run the next day. Tonight I ate ten.

Just sayin'

I never thought...in.

my.

life.

that I would consider a 'short' run to be five miles....

I May Be Broke, But By God...I am Happy!

2010-04-14T22:19:00.000-05:00

The first of the month is never good for me.

I try to plan ahead...but sometimes, things just don't work out as 'planned'; like the fact that Cierra grew a whopping two inches and one shoe size last month alone, or the fact that my brake light has been on for a whole month, or the fact that C is such a good swimmer that she moved up two groups, equalling... more time and money.

le sigh

I just shuffle things around...you should see me shuffle! I'm REALLY good! lol.

To fund the swim, I will postpone Crossfit membership, till May (it's right around the corner).

As for the brake light...well, I down-shift and drive cautiously to save my brakes, until I can get them fixed...in May.

As for Cierra's growth spurt, I am cutting and sewing her jeans that are stained/ ripped into Capri's and having a Craig's List 'garage sale' this weekend!

So, I may be broke...but, I am Happy...

definitely.

happy.

Guinea Pig Appreciation Day

2010-04-11T22:51:00.000-05:00

I have two guinnea pigs. They are completely opposite. One is a chicken (in a guinea costume) and one is fearless. I took pictures the other day when they were eating, because, every pig needs a chance to shine!

On the left is Ada...the chicken. On the right is Rosy Brown, a.k.a. Rosy Knievel.

Pig kisses...because I can, and Rosy is Rad!

Zorinsky Runtabulous

2010-04-11T22:39:00.001-05:00

I've been running alot more, mainly because the half marathon I paid fifty bucks to run is right around the corner. My favorite place to run in the mornings is at Zorinsky park. I really like running there because people always smile and wave, it is pretty and when I am done giving my body a beating...I can stretch on the dock. It is complete bliss! I took a couple of pictures for you: enjoy!

After this bend is usually right about where I get my second wind at mile 6ish.

S T R E T C H

Grandma's Garden and Juicin'

2010-04-11T22:31:00.000-05:00

Last week, I helped my Grandma in her garden. The whole thing needs dug under. It's BIG! Here are some pictures. Her compost is like steroids for plants; I was giving her a hard time for juicin' her melon's. Ha ha I love my Grandma...she's one of my FAVORITE people in the world.

Destroyed Apartment, Allergies and....(I am pretty sure I could eat a horse...)

2010-03-31T16:14:00.001-05:00

I've had QUITE the past week; busy, busy, busy! I had a day off on Monday, but spent it with Todd and Cierra. My next day off is tomorrow.

My apartment is destroyed! I REALLY don't want to spend my day off cleaning it, so that is what I will do tonight.

The weather has (FINALLY) been phenomenal over the past few days. It is supposed to be 80 tomorrow and believe me I will be outside most of the day! With the warm weather and my first spring back in the midwest, my allergies are taking over my LIFE! My nose hasn't stopped running in a month; SWEAR!

This week is the third week of the leaning challenge for CrossFit (Paleo diet). That being said, I am pretty sure I could eat a horse. I've been so friggin hungry lately! I HATE, hate, hate being hungry.

I'm not trying to loose weight. I actually would like my weight to stay the same and just tighten up....yup that'll make me happy, but then again...I really AM already happy! :)

Guys and Flowers

2010-03-25T22:13:00.000-05:00

Today at work, the girls and I were talking about relationships. I work with about thirty women

Guys, just so ya know...ALL girls turn into giddy little school girls when you send them flowers. The few women who said they don't like them....are LYING!

Holy Geeze!

2010-03-25T20:22:00.000-05:00

Had a fantastic last couple of weeks. Finished my one-on-ones at CrossFit Omaha and joined the regular workouts earlier this week. I have been officially sore in some capacity the whole time...it's sorta fantastic.

I am doing a LEANing challenge that consists of eating a Paleo diet. I've been very creative, but cooking clean is a challenge that I excel at. Here is what I made the other night: Grilled chicken breast with a caribean jerk seasoning, topped with 1/2 avocado. On the side is half of a cucumber (diced) with about six sliced green olives and a little olive juice.
It is QUITE different from what I was doing when I was Natural Bodybuilding. NO synthetic murkiness like creatine or powdered proteins. I will say that my skin has never looked better..and my stomach has been calm for one week straight.

The weather has finally started to look sunny...more days than not. THANK GOODNESS!

Todd and I went for a ride at Tranquility on Tuesday that was fantastic, a little muddy in spots, but still soooo much fun!

And...last, but not least (drum roll please, you should all know I am officially OFF the market!

SO here's the deal...

2010-03-22T00:15:00.000-05:00

So tonight, Todd told me, "So because you're doing CrossFit; you know everything now".

For the record, we were talking about the weather....and yes I know more than you think I do.

This struck a nerve, to say the least...grrrrr

Positive People, CrossFit Omaha, Sand Volleyball and Oh My GAWD I can't WAIT for the summer!

2010-03-16T09:12:00.001-05:00

After a taste of the workout and wonderful, wonderful people at CrossFit Rio Rancho, I HAD to checkout CrossFit here in Omaha. These guys (and girls) DEFINITELY know their shit! I signed up, the day after I got back and will have my third one-on-one today! Only one more of those sessions, and I can join the regular workouts.

Honestly haven't been this siked about the gym since I competed for three years straight in Natural Body Building (five years ago).

The Spring Sand Volleyball league begins next month at Spikers, I am a permanent this time. Volleyball is my favorite team sport, though I haven't played on a league in a decade! Sports and Spirits..ha ha, it's gonna be a good summer!

The snow is finally melting here! I MAY get to hop on my brand new Specialized before weeks end, SO excited!

Last year was rough. I moved, had a break-up, got a new job, got promoted, got a new place, and am F I N A L L Y (one year later) on my feet again! I decided this year to ONLY surround myself with positive people, this is all a step in that direction and I couldn't be happier!