Leticia

No Way!!

2009-01-25T18:38:00.000-08:00

Three in a row?? Wow something must be wrong with me. Hee hee just kidding. So we had a good day today. Went to church this morning and Michael sang in the choir. If the video loads up correctly he is the one on the end in the long sleeved white shirt. Too cute...

After church, we came home and went bike riding yet again. Nothing as memorable as yesterday considering I got a flat and had to walk home instead of ride. Took a little longer,but at least the weather was good. Anyways, basically had a good day. Back to work tommorow yuck...

See ya again in 2 months! (just kidding) (maybe).

A Natural High

2009-01-24T20:05:00.000-08:00

I took the kids on a long bike ride today. It was perfect weather and a good chance to escape. I rode longer and harder than I ever have before and it felt good. I felt alive. Maybe it's been too long and I've been walking around like a zombie. I'm not sure. I just know it felt good. I've heard of how people push themselves to a point of pain but they love it. I always thought they were nuts. But I had that today and it was great. Euphoric. Ya.

Will I ever have it again? Maybe, maybe not. But it was the best natural high I've ever had.

Rock on...

Regrets...

2009-01-23T19:55:00.000-08:00

Are a wasted emotion. I realize this now. But still, it's hard not to have them. My grandpa's funeral was today. I wish I had gone and seen him more often than I did, but there's nothing I can do to change it now. And that sucks. It truly does. I tell myself that he knew I loved him, and try to comfort myself with that fact. I did pretty good today with the emotions kept under control, but it seems that now I'm all alone with with my emotions going nuts. I don't know...

Anyways, I did get to see a lot of people that I haven't seen in a very long time. It had been WAY too long... It's sad how family only seems to come together when somebody passes away. I am going to make it a promise to start keeping in touch with more people. Even if by e-mail or phone, I will make it a point.

Life is too short to miss out on the most important things.

2009

2009-01-17T18:33:00.000-08:00

Has started off on the wrong foot. My grandpa died a week or so ago and I will miss him so much. I didn't get to see him a whole lot, but our visits were always special. I will think of him always and remember him forever.

We had a good Christmas, kept it low-key and had a pretty awesome day. I tried to make it not so much about the gifts (because it's not really anyway) and kept it more about spending time together as a family. Of course there were gifts, just not as much as usual. But it turned out to be one of our best Christmases yet.

I was sick over New Years (not from partying =p) so the kids partied at my mom's house and I was in bed at 8:00 pm. Nice. Oh well, I woke up at 12:45 and wished everyone a Happy New Year before I threw up... Ha ha.

Other than that, any free time has been spent outside (since we recently got rid of any and all cable) riding our bikes and going on our little adventures. Every day we go a bit farther and it is so much fun. (We go a bit farther every day on account that I'm impossibly out of shape...) But hey, I'm getting there.

A LOT...

2008-11-11T19:20:00.000-08:00

Of updating to do. Let's see... where oh where to start. Michael celebrated his 10th birthday on October 24th. We had a nice big party for him with lots of friends and family. It was awesome to say the least. Halloween went well... Kids costumes were cute. I made Amber's witch costume last year, and Michael's "Scream" costume was a last minute purchase on account of my exceptional slacker-like abilities. We went trick or treating at my mom's house, which was actually pretty slow. It's just not what it used to be when we were kids. Maybe we were the last generation and nobody ever moved. Oh well, they got way too much candy anyway. (We don't trick or treat in our neighborhood because we all live on acres and frankly, they're all slightly creepy. I heard one guy had a haunted house, but I can't be convinced it was actually decorated. He probably just wanted the kids to move boxes or clean or something. How's that for scary?)

Now I am not a political person in the least, just so you know. But I have to say I was elated when they announced the new prez. Maybe it's just a gut feeling, but I think it is a good choice. Let's hope all the haters out there get over the fact that he's black and take it for what it is. Just sayin...

Michael started basketball at school a few weeks ago. I'm glad he's doing some sports at school (he did volleyball already), and while basketball may not be his thing, he rolls with it. He is mainly excited for track in the spring. "Keeps me in shape for it" he told me the other day. That's my funny guy for ya.

Amber has been sick yet again and I'm really starting to get frustrated as to what causes it. She had her tonsils out about a month and a half ago. All had been well until a week or so ago. She went to her pediatrician Monday and I finally broke down and became that mom who goes off and demands things be done. I hope I'm wrong, but I just have a feeling it's something more than "a virus that's going around". I hate hearing that every time I call, I really do. There's always something going around and it just seems to be that Amber always has it. Well, some blood work has been done and we see an infectious disease doc in a few weeks. I hope we get some answers. I don't want a sick child by any means, but if she is we need to find some answers on what we can do to help her feel better.

Sorry, just had to rant. We had a good day today. No school so we went to breakfast, saw Madagascar 2 (awesome by the way!), and went to the park and played some ball. The weather was just beautiful so it made for a perfect day. Amber was feeling good today so that helped too. Anyway, well I think that's all to update on. Just a novel today.

This and That

2008-09-02T11:43:00.000-07:00

We've just been doing a little of everything. I worked most of the weekend and got off early on Sunday to take an overnight with the fam in St. David. It was fun to see everyone but just wished it had lasted a little longer. I took the kids to Tombstone after everyone else had left to make our day a little longer. I was sad, however, to realize that I had forgotten my camera. Ah well...

Today is back to reality and I have been packing boxes and moving them to our storage space we rented until we sell our house. It is such a headache but will definitely be worth it to get out of this house.

On a better note, my friend Regina posted about her new awesome bikes she had gotten recently and so I thought I would share my new bike I got a few weeks ago. It is too cute and I love it! As a family,we are trying to do more things outdoors instead of sitting around doing nothing. Hopefully this heat lets up soon so we can start doing more!

Top Ten

2008-08-26T19:43:00.000-07:00

Top Ten List of Bad Reasons I Have Been Slacking On My Blog

1. Had my 28th birthday at the end of June... Not a big deal, just afraid of 30, yikes.

2. Went full time about a month ago. Happy for the money, but it truly sucks...

3. Every time I went to log on the last few weeks, it wouldn't let me (cookie problems).

4. Broken memory chip for my camera. Finally got a new one. Yay!

5. Start of school and all of the shopping that goes with that fiasco. $$$

6. Trying to get our house uncluttered to hopefully put the house up for sale. Insane.

7. Dealing with our general day-to-day chaos.

8. I'm just a slacker in general. You knew that though.

9. Hubs has been teaching me how to pay bills and things of that nature. Ewww.

10. Amber is sick, yet again. STREP...imagine that. Went to ER with a temp of 105!! And we went to her regular doc today who recommended we go see the ENT doc to consider getting rid of her tonsils. Pieces of a puzzle were also put together and it was decided she has obstructive sleep apnea, yet another reason to say buh-bye to the tonsils. And it's no fun having to miss school when you just started.

Now I realize (minus #10 of course) that these are pretty crappy reasons not to update, but hey, I think we've all figured out by now that it's just how I am. Oh and I found a new blog that I enjoy reading about "going green". I try and tread a little lighter on the earth, but plan to fully make an attempt to go green when we move. =)

A Year Later

2008-06-10T17:28:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been a year since Michael's dog bite. He had surgery yesterday to help remove some scar tissue and it went well. Hopefully this will be it so we can finally get on with our lives. Not that we've been dwelling or anything, just finally we can be done with lawyers and hospitals and doctor's appointments...

He's doing well, just an outpatient procedure so we spent the day in bed yesterday. And some of today... =)

Being home for the few days beforehand, I actually took out my sewing machine and made Amber 2 cute dresses. I'm happy with how they turned out and so is she. A little big, but at least she will be able to wear them next year too.

We're Baaaack.....

2008-06-04T23:37:00.000-07:00

And I am ready to go back on vacation. The kids went to Disneyland with their uncle and had a blast so the hubs and I got a little alone time in Flagstaff. Nice and relaxing I must say... When I wasn't thinking and worrying about the kids of course. Which was all the time I guess. A week away is way too long for me. Waaaaay to long. But they had fun and that's what matters.

Michael will be having some reconstructive surgery for his bite on Monday. So keep us in your prayers and all that good stuff. =)

Long Day

2008-05-19T22:12:00.000-07:00

Tired and beat after a long day of answering mostly stupid questions at work. I just love when people hang up and then call back two minutes later just to ask the same dumb question in hopes that someone else will be answering the phone. And some even come back for thirds... But what I am truly amazed at... is the nicer I am, the more pissed off people get. Love it!!

Kids are getting ready for the home stretch... few more days and we're outta there! I can't even express how nice it will feel to be able to sleep in once in a while. Ahhhhh....

Convo today with Amber:

Amber: Hey mom...

Me: Ya Amber?

Amber: Can you tell me how a baby gets in your tummy? I know where it comes out *insert groan of disgust here* but how does it get in there?

Me: Amber, can we talk about this another day? I'm tired... And it's a long talk to have.

Amber: Sure... It sounds like it'll be gross anyway.

Me: (To myself) Hope you remember that in 10 years...

Hmmmm

2008-05-15T12:15:00.000-07:00

You know, I'm truly amazed at how many times a day I log on my computer, look at other people's blogs, read all about their life, sometimes get annoyed if they haven't updated in a while, and then log off without a thought. Because I have room to complain about that!!! I haven't blogged in over a month!!! I really need to get over myself...

We're doing ok. I use that "ok" pretty loosely. We still have no money and bills piling up all around us. And more bills.... And more bills.... Ok, you get it. I still haven't been crafting anything, not since putting pretty much everything away. Still haven't gotten over that one I guess. Only used the sewing machine once to turn some pants into some long shorts (you know, being broke and all). On the bright side, they turned out fairly well. One leg is a tad longer than the other, but it's not really noticeable unless I tell you about it. Which I do tell most everybody because I'm afraid you'll run home and tell everyone that I wear these stupid shorts around and have no clue that one leg is just a little longer than the other one. Again, need to get over myself...

Amber is doing well. Excited for school to be getting out next week. I can't believe this school year is gone already. We're pretty stoked for next year though, her 2nd grade teacher is pretty awesome (Michael had him). She is taking some time off from dance (more so for me, need a mental health break please), so all we will have is our busy Saturday with swim and gym. I'm good with that.

Michael has been getting teased at school about the dog bite on his face. I guess it's been going on for a while but he never told me because he was afraid I would be mad. Not at him of course, but just in general. And boy oh boy, was he ever right! Kids can be cruel, I know this first hand, having gone to school and all for 13 years. Duh... I am not tolerant whatsoever of this type of behavior. My kids do not laugh at others for anything (appearance, actions) and if they give the slightest hint that they might be considering it, I remind them of how this would make them feel. Not good. So I march into the classroom and talk it out with his teacher, and she calls him in and she wants names. Lo and behold, doesn't he give her the names of his two best friends and a few others?? WTF IS THAT??? I immediately burst into tears, and the rest is history. She talks to the kids, they in turn ask Michael why he told on them, so I give Michael all the permission in the world to throw me under the bus. "Sorry, it was my mom". I'm ok with that. Call me a bitch if you must children, but treating my son like crap is not ok. I tried to talk to him about his choice of friends, but he's 9. He's going to do what he wants to do as far as that goes, and I will have to learn that I cannot micro-manage every choice he makes. And that sucks...

My first thought on all of this is to pull him out of school and home-school him myself. And shortly after, realizing that this may be a tad drastic, I decided that I will let summer take its course and see what happens the next school year. But you better believe that if it gets worse and he wants me to do it, I'll do it. Because I love him something fierce, and it brings tears to my eyes even now thinking of somebody being mean to him. Being mean because he is a sweet, shy boy who doesn't like public speaking or giving his opinion because he is afraid of what people will think. And while that is all too familiar to me, it infuriates me to no end. I wish he would stand up for himself sometimes like he does at home. He won't take crap at home you know... Not from his sister or from us. He's like two different children wrapped up in one package. Both of which are wonderful, by the way.

He will be having his first plastic surgery at the beginning of June for his bite. We're hoping it helps with everything, but we can't put all of our eggs in that basket I know. Change comes from the inside, and it seems silly that I'm just now realizing the damage all of this has done to him. We denied help, thinking he would come out of it on his own. He truly seemed ok then, but not getting help is a decision that I will regret for a long time. But we will see how his surgery goes, and will have another summer of rest and healing. It's just not fair. Not fair at all.

But then again, life's just not fair is it?

I thank God every day that we have each other and we are healthy.

Oh, and also for the straight-jacket. =) Maybe I can get one in pink...

Garbage??

2008-04-08T21:04:00.000-07:00

Somebody thought this cute little lady was trash and threw her in a dumpster. Discarded like yesterday's newspaper. I just don't get how someone can be so sick to throw away a living thing. It makes me so angry just thinking of it...

So this is Cloe... A shy timid girl (probably abused) but the sweetest thing you'll ever meet. And while I realize we probably don't need another dog (we have 2), it brings tears to my eyes just thinking of giving her away. So given she gets a clean bill of health, she will probably be the newest addition to our family. We love her already...

Grump...

2008-03-31T20:53:00.000-07:00

That's been my mood this past week or so. Lots of reality checks this past month. I only work part time right now, and was supposed to go full time in January, but my position was given to somebody else who had some seniority over me. Which is good and fine and all except I just started getting my insurance though work (thinking I was going full time which is cheaper) and now I barely have a paycheck at all. And my little fantasy work where I only have to work two days a week has come tumbling down. And work is something I absolutely despise. Yeah, I know... Get over it, everybody hates their work. It's not that I don't like my job per se, just the fact that I have to get up and go there sucks.

I took out my frustration on my crafty things. I put them all away, sewing machine, everything. I don't know why, but I feel like I can't have both. I get my head wrapped up in all of these ideas, and then never entertain the thought of an extra shift at work that is badly needed. And not doing my crafts, I get depressed. Literally depressed. I sit and twiddle my thumbs and watch the stupid television that I want to throw in a river. And while I realize that I could be crafting or sewing when they don't need me at work, I just can't bear to drag it all back out. Boo for me...

Happy Easter!

2008-03-22T21:32:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone has a wonderful day! We're off to enjoy the sunshine!

Glitterfy.com - Glitter Graphics

I Am Obsessed

2008-03-19T22:26:00.000-07:00

With skirt making... So simple and so stinkin' cute!!! I made two today, one with a pillowcase and the other with my old scrub top. You just cut and hem the top!! Love it!!

As you can tell, I took my sewing machine out of retirement a few days ago. Poor guy was so dusty and sad... It's been months since I touched it and I'm glad I had to take it out. Money's been VERY tight lately and when Amber's friend had a birthday, we decided to make her some gifts. It was that or bounce a check and who wants that to happen?? Not me... I think she was happier with the cool stuff we made her anyway... some bracelets, a cute pair of maroon gauchos, a princess pillow, handmade soap, and a few odds and ends leftover from Amber's birthday. Gauchos and pillow courtesy of Mr. Sewing Machine. Who probably wishes he had a better owner, but hey, I do what I can.

Here's a few pics of the skirts I made today. I ironed on a beaded patch to the plain white one to give it a little color.

I would have had her wear them, but that would have involved waking her up and making her smile. And those things never go hand in hand so we'll leave it at that... Pictures of her wearing them coming soon...

Holy Cow...

2008-02-12T20:35:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time!! I get so wrapped up in other things sometimes that I forget where I am. I haven't been up to much lately. Well, not for myself anyway. I get the kids involved in so many things sometimes, and I know they enjoy it, but sometimes it gets to be a bit much. For everybody involved. I think sometimes that I'm just afraid to stop...

Kids have been sick lately, lots of that going around I hear. Amber was home from school all week last week, and Michael got sent home today from school. YUCK!!! Poor guys... lots of rest for them, and maybe a little for me in between. We all need it...

A Good Link

2007-12-10T22:52:00.000-08:00

I was browsing around my friend's blog and followed a link that I just love. It is chock full of ideas that just have my head swarming. And it has the best tutorials that a beginner like me can easily follow. Sew, Mama, Sew is awesome and will definitely be added to my list of places to visit!

I even made a bath mat for the kiddos today using one of the tutorials. My squares are quite a bit bigger that it asked for, but cutting 80 some-odd squares was not my idea of fun. 12 is way more my style! Quick and easy.... gotta live by it or nothing will get done. I'm the kind of person that can't wait for something to get dry before touching it. Not something I love about myself, but I try and deal.

And while it is most definitely not perfect, I think the kids will love it anyway. It is made from scraps leftover from making them pillows, pajamas, etc. I think they have come to love and appreciate things that are handmade. Turning scraps into something cool is exciting for them. Which makes it exciting for me. And that's what it's all about right?

Snowflakes

2007-11-28T18:52:00.000-08:00

Generally, my crafting ideas are not from my own imagination, but "borrowed" from friends. Well today, I must say, my imagination came to life. The kids and I were making paper snowflakes for some Christmas decorations (cash is a little short right now, so I thought some handmade decorations were in order), and while in the middle of one, *light bulb* these would make awesome freezer paper stencils!! OK, maybe I was being a bit dramatic about the idea being totally original, but hey, it was good for me. Here is some of our work:

Michael was a bit under the weather today, it explains the fake smile. =)

Busy Busy

2007-11-20T15:53:00.000-08:00

Generally, I do my Christmas shopping around December 24th. OK, maybe not that late, but pretty late anyway. Well this year, I want to try and make as many of my gifts as possible. With all of the scary news reports about so many recalled toys and other items, I'm hesitant about what to get.
Today, I made my mom and mother-in-law some goodies that I hope they like. You know, the only drawback I see to making things on your own is you want to keep everything!! It will be difficult to let these things go, but maybe after the holidays, I will make some for myself. Boy am I ever glad I took those sewing lessons!
Now I just need to think of some things I can make for the kids. Adults are easy enough, but the kids will be harder I think. And I hope they don't think it will be strange opening things I made myself instead of a box from the store. (I am counting on the appreciating these things as they get older) I can't promise for everything to be hand made, but the things that are will definitely be full of love.
Oh, and not made in China.... ;)

Chillin Out

2007-11-04T11:04:00.001-08:00

Just a nice relaxing Sunday eating waffles, playing games and chilling out. I vote every Sunday be this way... Amber was in her school play on Thursday for All Saints Day. She got to be Saint Theresa. Too cute!

Is That Fall Knocking?

2007-10-15T11:38:00.000-07:00

Ah glorious cool weather!! I do have to say it's about time and I hope it stays cool here. Anyway... A few weeks ago I decided that we would have Sundays be sort of a family day, which basically means no TV (unless we are all watching a movie together or something like that), no pointless shopping, things like that. The kids lovingly refer to it as "Waffle Sundays". Yes, there are waffles for breakfast. And they are 10 grain I might add, actually pretty good for you. Except the kids don't know that and I don't really plan on letting them know so I don't get any argument about it. My kids, I swear, you tell them they're eating something good for them and suddenly it doesn't taste good anymore. I just don't get that, I personally think they taste that much better. Anyway, off the subject. Yesterday we had a very nice family day, which included going on a 4 mile walk. Yes, you read right, I walked four miles. Here are a few pics of our fun day...

Eating pomegranate with good friends

A Martha Stewart inspired nature walk and handmade bag

A little rest on our long walk to snap a picture

Sweet Story

2007-09-20T17:40:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would share the story Michael wrote in school today. Too sweet!!

Letting Go

2007-09-06T08:56:00.001-07:00

These last few months have been a very difficult time in our family with everything that has happened. I realize now that I have a lot of anger and resentment harbored away in me that is making it impossible to function normally. I also realize that it is not healthy, not for me or any one of us. We may always have issues that hurt the heart, but I see now that I am missing out on the most important thing there is... family. Focusing on the negative seems to drown out any new and good memories we seem to be making.

No more.... I am making a promise to myself to learn how to let go. I was in my yoga class last week and she said something that brought tears to my eyes. "We all need to let go of our negative energy and see the beautiful things that are right in front of us." So I am letting go and refuse to miss out on anything else. Here are some beautiful things I see right in front of me...

Laughs like these...

Making crafts like these (What can I say, R? You inspire me!)

And, of course, the first day of school...

So here's to the new us!! May we always see the beautiful things right in front of us...

Healing

2007-08-12T18:09:00.000-07:00

Michael has had a summer of healing. Although unable to do many things, like going outside for more than a few minutes, no swimming, no gymnastics, he has remained quite positive. Of course there were many grumpy days (for both of us) but it has to be said that he's been quite the trooper. We got to do a lot of arts and crafts, lots of reading, and lots of cuddling.

I can't believe school starts in two days. It seems like yesterday we were saying goodbye to it. They are both pretty excited to start and looking forward to new things. I can't really say that I am prepared yet. The first month of school for me is quite boring. No one to really talk to or do fun things with. Eventually you get used to it, but it just plain stinks in the beginning. But I suppose it will give me some time to do some much needed "end-of-summer cleaning".

Amber is taking a few dance classes now and they both start gymnastics again next week. Maybe some return to a "normal" kind of schedule will do all of our heavy hearts some good.

Not For The Faint Of Heart

2007-06-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

I've never wanted to imagine how it feels to have your own life flash before your eyes. Yesterday, I prayed it was my own instead of my baby's. Around 6pm yesterday evening, Michael was attacked by a dog. There had been no teasing, no taunting, just the quick open of a door and it happened in seconds. (Before I get into too many details, I want to say that he "OK" and resting in his own bed. "OK" is definitely an understatement, but he's not in the hospital anymore so that's a little bit of good news.) I can't even type it..... The flashbacks from yesterday are still so real in my mind that I can do nothing but cry when I think of it. I will just say that I have never fought harder at any time in my life for my child than I did yesterday.

It haunts me that it still wasn't good enough. That dog seriously hurt my little boy... He bit his face and tore off all of his clothes, and while I was doing everything possible to stop it, it wasn't good enough. He will be marked forever by that dog, having to endure more than any child should ever have to. It breaks my heart and I can't fix it.

I have so many emotions running through me at the same time. Anger, sadness, confusion, denial. I don't know what to do with that. As sad and backward as it seems, Michael has been my rock. He told me the whole way to the hospital that he was going to be ok, that we would get through this. WE!! Like I had been hurt... It is so hard not to feel like I failed him somehow, like I could have done more to protect him. I have always believed that things happen for a reason, but there is absolutely no reason for this. NO reason why an innocent child should be mauled by a vicious animal. I can't even fathom it.

I should say that Michael is doing remarkably well. I do realize that it is very soon after the fact, but he has had no complaints through all of this. None. He does have the anxiety and the fear of this happening again though, and I hope to seek some sort of therapy to make sure this doesn't hinder him in every day life. We go to see a plastic surgeon on Monday (the one who fixed him up in the ER), so I should know a little more then about what they are going to do. He said they would probably end up doing a skin graft at some point and possibly a few surgeries along the way.

It's not fair that he has to go through this... It tears me apart inside to watch him be so brave. I don't think I could possibly be any prouder of him than I am right now for facing this with such a wonderful attitude. He has no idea what is happening to him, but he knows it's going to be ok.

I just wish I knew that too.

Tragedy Strikes Yet Again

2007-05-02T18:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, your eyes do not deceive you. That is a cast on my poor baby's arm. A trip to the doctor's yesterday for what I thought was possibly a sprain revealed a broken ulna. I don't know how it is that anybody can have a broken bone and not ever complain. But that's Amber for you.... my little rock. It is much more tolerable than the leg cast though. This one hasn't seemed to itch at all. And she can still write and color with it (she's a lefty) so it doesn't really bother her at all. She and my brother were wrestling around and he accidentally fell on her. Poor girl... Kids are so much stronger than we are...

Too Much...

2007-04-28T05:09:00.000-07:00

Too many thoughts are running around in my head lately. Some nights I can't sleep, and it bothers me. It won't stop. I just want to shut off my brain somehow, but obviously I can't do that. Maybe writing some of them down here will help...

A while back, I posted a blog about a challenge I wanted to do, becoming a vegetarian for a month or so. It went well, I have to say. Slowly, I started eating meat again because it was just an experiment. I didn't really plan on doing it forever. Well a few months ago, I decided to try the Atkins diet to try and lose some weight. BIG mistake... I felt so gross all the time, no energy and just pretty crappy. I felt sick. I got kind of turned off by all the meat so I decided to take a break from it for a while. Well this was 3 weeks ago and I have to say I feel better than I've felt in a long time. Honestly, I don't think I want it anymore. It's so hard to explain, but I feel changed somehow.

Here's my issue with that though... I don't feel like a vegetarian. I can't even say the word. My friend asked me if I wanted a bite of something she had, which had meat in it, so I just said no thank you. Apparently not a good enough answer... Finally I got tired of her waving it in my face so I told her that I wasn't eating meat right now. To which she replies, "What, are you going vegetarian on me??" Like it's this horrible thing or something. Because what a horrible person I must be to not try her burrito. I've only talked to one person about my choice who I knew would understand. I know it should be this decision that I should be proud of, but all I feel is embarrassed and ashamed.

Why do I feel this way??? I can't even imagine how I'm going to tell my family. I have a cousin who's a vegetarian and every holiday, she gets crap about it. EVERY HOLIDAY!! I always felt bad for her that she had to put up with that, but it never really seemed to bother her. I've considered not telling them at all, but I know that won't hold up forever. Eventually I'll have to get over it and just say it, but I don't think it will be anytime soon.

I'll have to drop the V-Bomb someday...

Finally......

2007-04-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

I am posting! Yay!!!! Ok, not that exciting.... We have been pretty good, kids are doing well in school. Michael's teacher had knee replacement surgery a few weeks ago and she probably won't be back the rest of the year. While I thought this would delight me, I now feel guilty about maybe not being so nice. We sort of made peace in our own ways, and wish her nothing but the best. Homework, however, has been the same as she is still running the show from her bed. =) He doesn't really mind though so I suppose I shouldn't either. Amber is back in gymnastics and doing well. Her foot isn't 100% yet so she takes it a little easy on the running and jumping, but she knows her limits so I leave it to her to decide what she can and can't do.

I've been keeping busy with work and trying to clean up our house. I swear, I think a secret gnome or something ransacks us every day and messes it up again. Impossible... ok maybe not impossible, but very difficult. I have also been going to yoga with a few friends form work. LOVE IT!!! Our teacher is so awesome... I am not the most flexible person in the world, but she tweaks it so it works for me. And even though I may not be able to move for a few days afterwards, it is a good pain. I assume it will go away with time. And more yoga of course.

Can you believe it was warm enough to swim last week??? Too cold for me, but the kids lasted for a few minutes.

Sew Fun

2007-03-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

Ok, that was really dorky. But I am too so oh well. I have been sewing like a mad woman. My mom asked me to make a pillow for her bunco group she goes to every third Wednesday. Well, she actually told me I was doing this being that she had already bought fabric and stuffing. I didn't mind though, it had been a while since I dusted off the sewing machine. I was trying to figure out how to make this pillow because I have no idea how to hand sew anything. I had put a zipper into Amber's dress though, so that wasn't exactly a foreign concept. So I made a zipper pillow. Which turned out awesome by the way! I was so proud of myself and I think they look really good! I know they aren't very hard to make, but this is me here, the sewing impaired.

Yay!!

2007-02-28T21:58:00.000-08:00

So we had a complete turnaround today! Amber woke up this morning and walked around most of the day without complaining. I could mostly tell by her face though, the look of pain that was so extreme yesterday had practically vanished! I am so relieved... So school tomorrow it is! I have to say though, it's been fun having her home with me these past few days. I missed cuddling and taking naps together. But responsibility must prevail...

Michael is doing well. Tons of homework this week so I feel like I've barely seen him. I definitely owe him some one on one time very soon. Poor guy, all work and no play can make for a very cranky eight year old.

Good Day...Sort Of

2007-02-27T23:16:00.000-08:00

Amber got her cast off today... "Finally" were her words. We are hoping that her foot feels a little better tomorrow though because the doc wasn't sure if it was ready to come off. If it still hurts a lot tomorrow, the cast goes back on Thursday. Needless to say, Miss Amber is not happy about that. She's already saying that it feels just fine, but I can tell when she walks and the grimace on her face, that is not the case. It's so hard to get through to her that it may be what's best for her. She just doesn't get that yet. While I know she would absolutely kill me if we take her back, it would absolutely kill me if she had to have surgery if we don't get it fixed. It's a lose-lose situation I know, but someday she will thank me for it.

Until then, I just deal with the tears, the glares and the attitude. Better safe than sorry.

Yuck

2007-02-25T22:12:00.000-08:00

Felt mucho yucky this weekend.... I think it was something I ate. Scott had the weekend off so at least I could sleep at will. Very helpful indeed... We were going to go to the Rodeo Parade but my stomach got the better of me and we missed it. My heart goes out to the family who lost their 5 year old daughter. I can't even begin to imagine their pain. It makes me think so much about my own children and I'm so glad that they know they are loved.

A Little Bit Of Weird

2007-02-21T20:58:00.000-08:00

I couldn't really think of much to blog about, so instead, I decided to compile a list of things I think are kind of weird. About me of course...

1. I can't stand odd numbers. If the volume on my tv or radio is on an odd number, it must be
changed. No if's, and's, or but's about it.
2. Unless pulled directly out of the dishwasher, I wash every dish again from the cupboard
before using it.
3. My bottom lip is extremely ticklish, even lip gloss makes me giggle.
4. I mutilate most things before they are eaten... oreos, chocolate with stuff inside, you get the
idea.
5. I love to bite my kids' chins. I don't do it hard of course, it's more of a nibble. I can't believe
they still let me do it.

Ok, short list. For some reason, I can't think of anything else. Don't get me wrong, there is plenty of weirdness about me. But I'm tired.... Maybe more tomorrow.

Kinda Boring

2007-02-19T20:40:00.000-08:00

There's not really much exciting happening around here. Michael had a fun weekend riding his bike and just hanging out. We are usually pretty busy every day so it was nice to take a breather and just hang out at home for a change. The kids definitely appreciated it. Amber went on a field trip today to check out the Butterfly exhibit at the Botanical Gardens. We didn't really have much of a discussion about it, but from what I gather, she had a lot of fun. Tonight we made some Amish friendship bread and rice krispy treats and the kids were off to bed. Like I said, not really exciting... =0)

V-Day and Other Stuff

2007-02-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Valentine's Day! Scott took me to lunch and we had a nice quiet day together. And he loved my gift... it couldn't have been better. The kids came home with so many valentines, they were all so cute! It was just a nice day altogether.

Today, on the other hand, not so nice. Amber has had a little rash for the last week or so and it was just getting worse so we took her to the doctor today. We had to pick her up early from school, and on our way to get her, the school calls to say that her foot was hurting a lot. So I'm sort of glad we were on our way anyway. One look at her rash and the doctor says she has eczema, and it's pretty bad. I know it's not that serious of a thing, but the poor girl has it on her bum and other unmentionable places. That makes it horrible... And horribly itchy. That's the not so nice part.

Dare To Be Nice

2007-02-12T12:49:00.000-08:00

I was checking some random blogs and stumbled upon one with a challenge I would love to take part in. It's called Dare To Be Nice. Every week you are given a task to put nice comments on someone else's blog, and given that today is National Compliment Day, I thought I would take part. http://daretobenice.blogspot.com/

A Little Inspiration

2007-02-11T22:19:00.000-08:00

Inspired by my crafty friend's valentine for her honey, I made a gift for my own. I decided it was a much better idea than going out and buying a useless gift. I never know what to get him, and usually end up getting a last minute present that doesn't really mean much to either of us. So I hope he loves my handmade gift and the thought put into it.

This and That

2007-02-11T13:16:00.000-08:00

It seems so funny to me that I think of things to blog about every day, yet it rarely happens. I think "Oohh, this would make a good one", then I practically write it in my head, and somehow, there's a party of me that really thinks I posted. So when I check it, I'm in shock to see what the last thing I wrote actually was. Crazy, huh?
Anyway, we've been pretty busy. I've been crafing like a maniac. Except I usually do more than one thing at a time, so the finished products progress quite slowly. And sometimes my imagination doesn't stretch as far as I would like, and many things end up unfinished. I wish I had the mind of an artist, ideas flowing all of the time. I feel sometimes like my ideas are almost forced, and I end up unhappy with what I made. I know that doesn't make much sense. I love making things, I just wish they were better. I know I should be happy with what I make because it does come from the heart, so I suppose thats all that matters right?
Moving along... Michael went on a field trip Friday to The Gem and Mineral Show, which he loved so much that he begged me to take him again that afternoon. I haven't been since I went on field trips forever and ever ago, so we went. It was so amazing!! Michael (the seasoned pro) showed Amber and I everything, and they both got tons of things for very reasonable prices. After we got home, they turned our hallway into their very own show. Not that we have a lot of space in the hallway for that, but they are both very proud of their findings. How could I not agree?

Duct Tape Purse

2007-02-01T16:18:00.000-08:00

I had no idea that you could ever make something out of duct tape that would be cute! And I mean cute! So I now have an addiction to the show "That's Clever", even though I didn't get to see the one I was trying to find. Sometimes I watch crafty shows and think to myself that me doing something like that was impossible. It is so awesome that there are things laying around my very own house that can be used for crafts. I love it! And this purse was so easy... it probably took me 30-45 minutes altogether to finish it. I can't wait to make more!

Happy Birthday Amber!

2007-02-01T15:37:00.000-08:00

Has it been 6 years already?? I just can't believe how time flies. Last night Amber got to pick where we ate (being her birthday and all), so she chose the ever-famous Chuck E Cheese. Not my first choice. Actually, not ever my choice, but it's the one day a year they can pick it. They both had a lot of fun and slept well last night so I can't say it wasn't a good thing. Her party with family and friends will be on Sunday, so we are busy shopping for her theme this year: Valentine's Day. It was easy to find all the things she wanted; pink, purple, and hearts.

Broken Feet

2007-01-26T19:43:00.000-08:00

Amber got her cast yesterday. Red, her "most favorite" color. But it was quite the decision between red, pink and purple. She may be smiling in this particular picture, but it's quite another story when she gets an itch. The "itchies" are not her friend. So we've kept her busy doing other things. We got her a stamp set, some workbooks, new crayons (her favorite thing in the world), coloring books, and a few toys. It's like Christmas all over for her again. But you do whatever it takes right? She also went to school for a few hours and all of her friends signed her cast. It was so cute...

Today I did a little shopping and we bought some stuff at Wal-Mart to make bookmarks and a few other crafts. So we had a fun night of crafting together... I hope it's something we do more often together. Michael mentioned selling the things we made and it seems like a good idea. I will have to look into craft fairs and see what's out there. I know it may not be the most quality items, but I think the kids would have so much fun it wouldn't really matter if we made any money at all. Here are a few of the things we made tonight...

Far Too Long

2007-01-23T08:55:00.000-08:00

Wow, has it really been that long?? I should get some sort of award for Queen Slacker or something! Well our Christmas went wonderfully, the kids got so much stuff I still haven't found places for it all. And I can't believe it snowed a few days ago!! We got a lot and there is still some on the ground in our yard. This past weekend we went to Flagstaff for the snow. The kids have never really been in it so we thought we would let them have some fun. We got a sled and everything. Well... Amber took that sled and introduced it (and herself) to a tree. We spent a good few hours in the Flagstaff hospital because she broke her foot. My poor baby. Thank God she was ok other than that. I suppose it could have been much worse, but it's hard to see her in pain. And of course, my feeling responsible for what happened. I know wasting time on "what ifs" is silly, but it's hard to get past. She goes to the orthopaedic doctor on Thursday, so we will see what happens from there. Until then... lots of love.

Cookie Heaven

2006-12-12T19:09:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas!! Everything about it is wonderful... the lights, the pine tree smell, hot chocolate, snuggling, and even the baking. I've never actually made Christmas cookies before. I know, I know, bad mom right? Nah, better late than never. It was so much fun! The kids actually got along, my very own kids who agree on nothing sat at the same table for hours and didn't disagree once. We might just bake every day! Ok, maybe not every day, but more often.

I wish Scott would get into the spirit, but the only thing he sees about Christmas is the money involved. Money spent I should say... One the tree, on gifts, just about everything. Every other year I have let it bother me to no end and ended up being miserable. I decided this year to stop hounding him about enjoying the holidays. I suppose I can't make him love something he doesn't. So the kids and I will celebrate how we want and if he'd like to join us, he can. I doubt he will, but maybe we will all be happier in the long run. Boy, is he ever lucky that I love him so much...

Thanksgiving

2006-11-27T18:37:00.000-08:00

Hope everybody had a good Thanksgiving! We sure did! Scott had the entire weekend off and so did I so we actually got to spend real quality time together. It doesn't happen often so I take it when I can. And, amazingly enough, we get Christmas off together too. We'll be making a family announcement on Christmas and I am so excited about it. I know certain people who won't be, but it's going to be a happy time for us anyway. (No, I am not pregnant if that's what you were thinking. I don't think so anyway.... =0) I'll keep you posted.
School is going well. Michael had an easy week of homework for Thanksgiving so that was nice. Amber has a field trip tomorrow to see "A Christmas Carol" and is super excited about it. Except she's sick and was sent home from school today, so hopefully she's up to it tomorrow to go. I get to go too so I'm hoping it will be ok since I will be there. I'll try to take pics of some of the kids to post them.

Good Services...

2006-11-10T21:26:00.000-08:00

Geez, I'm not very good at updating this am I? Truth be told, I have these ideas every day of what to write about, it just never seems to happen. I either forget, am too tired, or just plain lazy. Usually it's me being lazy. =) So what to write about... hmmm....
School is going well for the kids. They had today off so we had a pretty lazy day. I took them to lunch and then we collected food for their food box at school. I was kind of worried about going door to door collecting canned foods, but was pleasantly surprised to find that every single house we went to had something to give. And it made the kids feel good to know that they were doing a good service. Michael informed me that he is now certain about his place in heaven. So cute... I would like to do things like this more often with them. I think that it puts things into perspective for them, that some people don't even have enough money for food, so when they are upset that they don't have everything they want, at least they will know they have everything they need. Well I hope they remember that next time we go to the store and walk through the toy aisle. They're only human right? =0)

Lots Of Updates

2006-10-24T22:05:00.000-07:00

Oh, where do I begin? I feel like I have so much to write about... When I'm done though, it probably won't be too much. There seems to be so much floating around in my head all the time, but rarely does it make it on the computer. Oh well....
So happy birthday to my little man Michael!!! He is officially 8 years old today. It's so crazy how time flies, I am in shock at how big he is, how mature he's getting. We have so many adult conversations these days, about life in general, school, whatever his little mind is thinking. Such a big guy now, it makes me proud and breaks my heart all at the same time. He decided this year he wanted a Halloween birthday party, so we had one for him this past Saturday, and it went wonderfully. He had tons of fun with his friends and family and that's about all a kid can ask for right? (Not to mention all of the awesome gifts and money, that's always good.) Here is a pic of him bobbing for apples.

Ok, moving along now.... So I wrote a long time ago that I would like to try to be a vegetarian for a month or so. Well, Scott and I recently talked about it and decided to try it out. And except for 1 mess up a few days ago, I have been meat free for the last week and a half. Much to my surprise, the kids also wanted to try this out. Amber has been telling everyone for the last week that she is now a vegetarian. It's funny to hear her say that, I don't know why. I think she just likes the word. And her teacher is a vegetarian so I think that has a big influence on her decision. While it has been easier than I thought it would be, (the 1 slip up was truly an accident) I feel really awkward telling people about it. Amber told my mother in law about it, in turn who told Amber it was a "ridiculous" idea. I hate that I don't have the guts to yell at her and tell her that Amber is old enough to make her own decisions, if she doesn't want to eat meat for the rest of her life, so be it. And it wouldn't bother me if she does want to eat meat again... I want my kids to grow up knowing that I support them 100%, and I hope that they feel validated enough to come to me with anything. Maybe I feel this way because I never felt like I could tell my parents everything. Don't get me wrong, they're wonderful people, but they are not exactly what you would call open-minded. I still haven't told them about being a vegetarian (for the time being of course) because I fear their response. I know for a fact I will not be the least bit supported in my decision, and I know it shouldn't matter what they think, but I crave acceptance and I always will. It's part of who I am I guess.

So now I'm confused about the whole vegetarian thing. I didn't realize what an impact it would have on my life. But what bothers me most is I don't feel like I have a reason for becoming a vegetarian. I know what most of the reasons are, I just don't feel like I fit into any of those categories. I mean, I've eaten meat almost everyday for my entire 26 years of being here. How do you just stop one day and tell yourself it's suddenly wrong? Personally, I could not go out and hunt for an animal to kill and eat, but I've never had to. It's just there in front of me, all ready to go. Do I think it's wrong? Of course I do, I think about it all the time, but it never stopped me before. How do you change? How do you find acceptance? How do you learn to stop caring about acceptance? I truly have no idea... I am amazed and in awe that this "little experiment" of mine would make me question myself so much.

I think there's more I wanted to talk about, but it will have to wait for another blog. I am unbelievably tired after a long day...

What A Day

2006-10-11T18:44:00.000-07:00

What a crazy day it was today. Amber had a field trip to the library and Party in a Pinch, which, luckily, I got to go to despite my lack of effort in filling out compliance papers and getting fingerprinted to be a volunteer. It was a lot of fun and very humorous to be with kindergarteners most of the day. I stand back in amazement at how her teacher does it all day and is still sane when it's time to go home. Ok, well maybe not always, but she loves our kids regardless. And man oh man, does Amber love her. It's only the beginning of the year and I'm already not looking forward to May. Although in Michael's case, I wish May were tomorrow. =0) I know, not nice....
The rest of the afternoon, I got to hang out in the nurse's office and slap on a few bandaids. I did feel like a moron though when Amber's teacher brought in one of her kids and I had no idea what to do. Yeah, like I haven't been working in healthcare for almost 7 years. I guess the difference is that when I deal with sick kids at work, I'm taking blood pressures and drawing blood and doing other horrible things to cause pain. All you're allowed to do there is take their temperature and send them on their way. So I sat there like an idiot and looked at her and guessed she was ok. Ugh, she probably thinks I have no clue....
So that was my day. Now I'm tired beyond belief and my bed is calling my name. I think I'll put the kids to bed early and go answer it's sweet call. Hmmm, maybe I'll go back tomorrow for some more.... =0)

I am still alive...

2006-10-09T22:17:00.000-07:00

Wow, where do I begin? It's only been, what, 3 months?? Amber started kindergarten, which she loves! And I love her wonderful teacher.... Michael started third grade and it is proving to be quite difficult. His teacher is nice enough, but gives ridiculous amounts of homework. It's like I am in school again, planning the day around homework and studying. Too much crap for a 7 year old. Maybe if he's a super genius by the end of 3rd grade, I will take back all of the bad things I have said and thought about his teacher, but I'm not holding my breath. And Michael is just fine the way he is now.
So I officially know how to sew now. Ok, maybe just a little, but I no longer look at the sewing machine with wonder and hear the crickets chirping. That is how I look at the sewing directions though, it's like another language to me. Every project I do makes a little more sense though, so maybe it will come eventually. I'll post pictures of a few of the things I have made at the end.
Scott and I are doing well. He is still working at the prison and I am still working at the hospital. I am going per-diem in November which pretty much means I work once a week, and then whenever else I feel like it. I want to do medical transcriptioning at home, I just have to find courses and sign up. I'm not sure how it works yet, but I am hopeful. Anything so I could stay at home would be wonderful. Well, hopefully I will start updating more often, no promises but I will try.

I know, I know...

2006-07-08T15:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been so long. I am back to work, and with all of my kid's summer activities and sewing class and just everything else, I've been pretty busy. Sewing class is going pretty well. Amber will have a cute new dress soon. I am just afraid that I will have to go to class to make anything because I'm the kind of person that you have to physically show how to do something or I just don't get it. Sewing language is foreign to me... I hope that someday it all makes sense, but for now, I am like a kindergatener in that respect.
Amber is getting better at ice skating, falling down much less now. Thank goodness, she was giving me a heart attack. And both of them love gymnastics. Michael has decided he's going to the olympics.... more power to ya little man!! They're so cute.

Busy Bee

2006-06-22T22:46:00.000-07:00

I had my first sewing lesson last night and it was wonderful!!! Despite my grandma and my mom ditching me (They both actually were busy and will sign up with me next session. You guys are forgiven!) and the fact that I was in a class full of girls all under the age of 14, it went really well. I went out today and bought some cheap fabric to practice on and I made the things in the picture. The little pink bag is for Amber (I know I put the handles on wrong, but I improvised) the blue bag is for Michael, and I made the pillowcases for each of them. They are far from perfect, but I think it was a good first attempt.
I have also been making jewelry, bracelets and earrings. They are very cute. I don't know what I'm going to do with them considering I don't wear jewelry often, but maybe I will give them as gifts. Either way it's fun to do. I have to do something before I go back to work next week. Yuck...

Feeling Better

2006-06-16T12:16:00.000-07:00

Surgery went well and I'm healing up nicely. A little tired, a little sore, but for the most part, much better. I haven't been up to doing anything crafty or cooking much so there's really nothing exciting to talk about. My sewing class starts next Wednesday so I'm very excited about that. Have a good one!

Yikes

2006-06-06T14:19:00.000-07:00

Well I found out today that I am going to be having surgery on Thursday. I knew I had a large cyst on my ovary, but we weren't sure what they were going to do about it. Apparently cysts as big a a "newborn's head" are dealt with surgically. Leave it to a OB/GYN to compare it to a child... I thought it was funny. Surgery, not so funny. I've never had it so I'm a little freaked out and don't really know what to expect. I do realize it's this totally routine procedure, but still, it puts things into perspective. Wish me luck...

Ahhh, Vacation...

2006-06-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

We went to Flagstaff last week for vacation. One word.... heavenly. It was so nice to be in 70 degree weather instead of 106 degree weather. Except for my being sick on Thursday (the day we came home) it was wonderful. Scott took us sightseeing (he lived there for 4 years while attending NAU), we went to the deer farm in Williams, hit all the popular parks (my kids live to swing), and got some good R & R. And we took some cute pictures, of course. I thought I would revive the old black and white I took of them a few years ago with a new one. I think it came out cute. My poor little guy Michael fell off of his bike and scraped his lip so he wasn't all smiles, not that I blame him. But he sucked it up and took some pictures for his old mom, he's such a trooper. Here are a few more pictures...

Turtles

2006-05-26T03:03:00.000-07:00

I love turtles. They have a very special meaning to me that I hold close to my heart. About 4 years ago I met 2 wonderful girls with cancer, they came to the hospital around the same time and were diagnosed around the same time also. Naturally they became very good friends. And while we as staff are not supposed to get too close to patients, it was impossible not to. I will call them J and S. J was a prankster from the beginning, always finding a way to gross us out with her skin collection (yes I said skin collection) or squirt us with silly string. It was her nature. S was a bit more soft spoken (until you really got to know her) and she had a smile that would melt anything you had.
They started a "Turtle Club" one time when they were both in the hospital. They selected a few staff members who were "cool enough" to join. Eventually everyone was said to be in it, but only the real members have initiation papers signed by J and S (myself included of course). Every time one of them would be hospitalized we would find some sort of turtle gift to give each other, I have quite the collection at home. They were like my little sisters.
J passed away on Easter and S passed away the following August. I can't even begin to describe the impact these girls had on my life. I will never be the same. Maybe that's why they tell you not to get close to patients, because the pain is like losing a member of your own family. But I wouldn't change that for the world, I am only human. I love you J and S.

Sewing Lessons

2006-05-22T21:28:00.000-07:00

Sewing is something I have always wanted to learn how to do but never had the opportunity. My mom failed out of sewing class which doomed me from the beginning, but as funny as it may sound, my mom is going to sewing lessons with me. My grandma is also going with us, so there we will be, three generations of women learning something that none of us know how to do. It will definitely be interesting... not to mention fun. Michael will finally get the magician's cape he has always wanted and I'm sure I will find some cute things to make for Amber. I am so excited!

Oldie But Goodie

2006-05-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share an old picture of the kids that I absolutely love. It was in April a few years ago. It was nice to be able to go outside before it gets too hot out to do anything. Hope this summer isn't too horrible!

Freezer Paper Stencils

2006-05-18T22:07:00.000-07:00

Here is my first attempt at freezer paper stencils. I did it on a cute tank that's almost too small for Amber (in case we messed it up) and it came out all right. I also did a dinosaur for Michael on his pajama shirt. The dinosaur came out really cute, but I need to get brighter paints so you can see it better. First I got some freezer paper (in the grocery store) and cut off a piece, then I used a heart shaped cookie cutter and traced it onto the paper. I used an exacto knife to cut it out. I ironed the freezer paper to the shirt, painted it with fabric paint, waited until it dried and peeled it off. Amber decided she wanted an "A" on her heart, so I made one for her. Not too bad, I just hope I did it right... I have seen more intricate things online and I have no clue how it was done. Maybe I just need more practice.

Pampered Chef

2006-05-17T20:43:00.000-07:00

For some reason, I'm having trouble uploading pictures, so I thoght I'd talk about something that I didn't need any pictures for. I got into The Pampered Chef a few months ago. I bought my kit and I've had two parties. I like it a lot, and the little bit of extra money is always nice. I think the only problem I have is getting people I don't know to have parties. I told myself when I got into this that I would not be "the annoying Pampered Chef lady". So far all that's done for me is, well, nothing. Hopefully somebody will come to appreciate that and then my little business will get going. In the meantime, I will just have to crawl out of my little hole and start meeting new people. Very scary...

Happy Mother's Day!

2006-05-14T18:28:00.000-07:00

I had an especially good Mother's Day... Amber had a ballet recital today and watching her onstage was better than any gift I could ever receive (Scott gave me a combination printer/fax/copier/scanner machine so that wasn't so bad either!) . Oh, and Michael gave me a beautiful purple candle with a stand that is awesome! Although, I had a slight problem slapping tons of makeup on my already beautiful 5 year old. But after seeing herself she decided she looked like a "freak", and somehow, that was comforting. It came off before we got in the car to leave. HOORAY for Amber, good choice! Thank you Grandma Jean for the beautiful flowers, she's carrying them everywhere. Well I hope everyone had a great Mother's Day!

Mission Impossible?

2006-05-13T20:39:00.000-07:00

This is my next big project. We loosely call it Michael's room. I know, I know, absolutely filthy. I have no excuses, I just am petrified to tackle the mess. Where do you begin? I keep telling myself that on my days off, I will do it, then I march in there... and turn back around with tail between my legs and flip on the TV. I really need to clean it when Michael's not home though, otherwise he finds toys he had years ago and will suddenly be interested in them. Hopefully I will post pictures of it when it's had an extreme makeover. Sometime soon anyway... yikes.

The Little Ones

2006-05-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

This is me with my kiddos... aren't they beautiful?? I love black and white photos, photography is another interest I have yet to pursue. But this post is not about me...

Michael turned 7 in October. While he may be a bit (ok a lot) short tempered, the kid has a heart of gold. He's probably the most forgiving person I know, and the most loving. He lets me kiss him in public and hold his hand whenever I want without dying of embarrassment. He actually likes it. It's just nice to see, the fact that you can love your kids and they can love you back without worrying what other people think. People are so crazy these days about not wanting to seem weak or something, it's just beyond me. Sooner or later, they will grow up and start a family of their own, so I plan on enjoying every second I have with my babies while I can. Anyway, back to Michael. He loves school, yeah, imagine that, a kid who loves school. He is in the second grade at a Catholic school nearby. In first grade, he won his class spirituality award. (That's the heart of gold I mentioned earlier.) He plays soccer, takes swimming lessons, singing lessons, and this summer will start gymnastics and have science camp for a week. He definitely likes to be active. He loves magic, and just today bought his very own magic kit. I hope that when I learn to sew, I can make him a magician's cape with stars on it like he wants. And that's my Michael, well not all of him, I could go on forever. He's not perfect, but hey, who is?

Amber turned 5 in January. It was quite the milestone birthday, I think perhaps she thought she turned into a princess. Not that she's not our little princess, but the new princess came with a bit (ok a lot) of attitude. But she is the sweetest little thing out there, she's my little cuddlebug. She started preschool this year, and it was not her who was crying, but me. She loves it, I mean loves it... she gets along with everyone and everyone is like her best friend. Her teachers are wonderful people, we got really lucky. She starts kindergarten in the fall, and I have faith that she is more than ready. Hopefully she doen't get sick too much this year. I swear, every time I turn around, the poor girl has strep throat or something else awful. But she's definitely not the whiny complainer when she gets sick, so we have fun when she has to stay home. She also takes swimming lessons, is doing ballet, and will take gymnastics and is going to learn how to ice skate. Yeah, ice skate in Arizona. Her taste is definitely random. She gets bored with thing very easily, (she's been through ballet/tumble class, tap dance, regular ballet class, some gymnastics, soccer, the list goes on) so hopefully she will find something soon that she likes and stick with it. Or not, she's that kind of girl. I love her either way.

So there's a little taste of my children, I'm sure I will talk about them more often than not, but hey, what can you do when you're in love with your kids? =0)

First Time

2006-05-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

There's a first time for everything...this happens to be my first time blogging. I don't know what to expect, how it will work, who I will meet, but I suppose I will find out. Maybe it will be something I stick with, maybe it won't. But in the meantime, I'll give it a whirl and see what comes of it.
I used the term "au naturel" because I wanted this to be a place where I could be myself. My insecurities, my imperfections, everything, good and bad. I am far from perfect, but I strive daily to become better. It's all you can do I think...become better. I am unorganized, impulsive, afraid of ruffling a few feathers now and then, and my potty mouth gets me in trouble quite a bit. But, overall, I think I have a good heart. I always have good intentions, sometimes they just don't get to where they need to be.
I have a husband (Scott) and two beautiful kids, Michael (7) and Amber (5). They are my world, my reason for being here. (I will elaborate on them another day though, otherwise my blog would go on forever and people will stop reading.) I live in Arizona and work in healthcare. I would love to be a stay at home mom, but unfortunately, our bills don't allow for it. Maybe someday, but right now it's just not an option.
I do have a list of things I would like to modify about myself (change is a strong word, I just need tweeked a bit) and a few thing I would like to try out eventually). I will list some now, and add as needed:

1. I would like to become more organized in daily life.
2. I would like for my house to be cleaner.
3. I would love to be a stay at home mom.
4. I would like to try out being a vegetarian for a month or so.
5. I would like to be craftier.
6. I would like to finish things I start.
7. I would love to become a better parent.
8. I would like to start a business at home someday.
9. I would like to become a more religious person.
10. I would like to lose weight.

Of course those are in no particular order. So I think that's enough about me for now. I mean, it's all I can digest for the moment. Peace...