Erin's Rambling Mind

cursed

2010-06-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

FYI, i think my blog is cursed. Any time I mention a guy on my blog, they turn weird shortly there after. I think they are great, blog about how great they are, then BAM! they turn weird.

Blah, men. So I'm not going to blog about them anymore.

P.S. If you type "curse" into Google picture search, you get some really weird pictures.

Perfect Man

2010-06-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

Steph and I have decided that this guy is the perfect man! He may be a model from a website that I was shopping on..... and he doesn't know that I exsist... but I'm pretty sure he loves me. We named him Alejandro. :)

Skydiving

2010-06-08T13:25:00.000-07:00

It's become a tradition for me to do something a little crazy or out of the ordinary for my birthday. About a month ago I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do to celebrate and I came up with Skydiving. I had wanted to skydive for a while, but never really looked into it. I told some friends and family that I was going to go skydiving. Several people contemplated joining me, but it came down to just my brother Reed and my friend Amanda that decided to make the jump.I scheduled our jumps for Saturday the 5th, 2 days before my birthday. The weather has been horrible for June, but we got lucky and Saturday was a beautiful day. Once we got to the field we all felt pretty good about our decision to skydive. It was comforting to see that there were lots of people there, and we even saw a few groups suit up, take off, skydive and land. It was reassuring to see them land and come off the field smiling and saying it was the best experience.Getting suited up wasn't the most comfortable. I was glad that I wasn't a boy, because as is there seemed to be some discomfort in the crotch area with all the straps and harnesses going on. Safety before comfort! We took a few pictures of us all suited up, met our tandem instructors, and then loaded onto the plane.It was an interesting 15 to 20 minutes in the plane while we got to the right altitude. It was loud and we were all sitting between eachothers legs, facing toward the door we would ultimately jump out of. Once we got up to the correct altitude our instructors helped us with our helmets and goggles, tightened our harnesses and clicked us into the connectors on their chests. The door opened and we did an awkward scoot toward the door. As I saw Reed and his instructor drop out my heart began to pound a bit harder. I scooted more. Saw Amanda and her instructor drop out and spin into the air. At this point we are at the door and my heels are touching the bottom of the plane. "one.. two - go" and we were spinning into the air. It was an exhilarating feeling. It didn't feel like falling as much as it felt like flying. Never once in the air did it cross my mind that I could die if something went wrong. It was just surreal.
We all landed safely and agreed that we would go again if we could afford it. The adrenalin was strong and even though I was no longer nervous my hands were shaky for another 15 minutes or so. It was an absolutely amazing experience, one I'm sure I'll do again!

Visiting Grandma

2010-06-08T13:02:00.000-07:00

Over memorial Day weekend Reed and I went to visit Grandma Risenmay. We arrived Sunday in the late afternoon and had a relaxing evening playing 5 dice and watching the movie The Blind Side and then a couple hours of the tv show "I shouldn't be alive." It was nice to hang out with grandma. Monday morning I woke up and went out to the living room to find grandma awake and drinking her warm water. We sat and chatted and eventually Reed woke up and came out to the living room as well. Grandma was very worried that Reed did not want to go to the bathroom when he woke up. She asked him several times "dont you want to go to the bathroom? I always need to go to the bathroom when I wake up." Reed insisted that he didn't need to go to the bathroom. Grandma went to McDonalds to pick up breakfast burritos for us while Reed and I got ready for the day. Once we were done with breakfast and ready for the day we loaded things into the car to go decorate Grandpa's grave for Memorial day. I was amazed at the amount of decorations at the graveyard. There were several people there decorating graves. Grandma was so grateful that Reed and I were there to help her. She tried to help us, but said she found out how useless she was. We were happy to do the work while she directed us in what she wanted done. We then went back to grandmas house and played a few more rounds of 5 dice. Grandma was very tired so we decided to hit the road and try to beat the holiday traffic. We did not miss the traffic rush, but it was well worth it to be there with Grandma.

My Hopes

2010-05-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

I was reading a blog post written by a friends wife, about her hopes for her life, and the type of person and mother she hopes to be. It made me think about what my goals are as a person, and what I want to be, so I thought I'd make a list as well.I hope to smile and laugh, and be happy more than any other emotion. To focus on the positive, and the blessings in my life, more than on the sadness and frustrations.

I hope to always be forgiving, and to try to understand other people and their true intentions, and to realize that when people do harmful things, it is only because they are hurting within themselves.
I hope to always take care of my body and strive to be healthy but be able to stay balanced in my health. Eat well, exercise, but also enjoy life and eat dessert. :)
I hope to always have a home that feels comfortable. To have it well decorated, but lived in. A place where your heart feels warm.
I hope for my home to also be an open, loving environment. One like my mom's where there are always visitors, and those visitors often feel like they are at their home away from home.
I hope I always have a dog. This may seem silly to some, but I feel like a family is not a family without a dog. I also feel that having a dog can help teach children how to be loving and caring toward all creatures.
I hope to never have my children (Will and any others I may someday have) doubt that I love them. I want them to know, no matter what, that their mom will always be there for them.
I hope to someday be a wife. I want my husband to feel as though I am his biggest fan. I want to make him dinner, and rub his back. I want to snuggle, and laugh. I want to have a loving relationship with my husband that I know is a good role model to our children of what a relationship should look like.
I want to not live my life in fear. I want to love and laugh and play. I want to live my life to the fullest.
I hope to be a non judgmental person. I want to have friends from all walks of life and to love them for who they are and where they have come from.
I hope to raise a family, who laughs as much as my parents and siblings do when we are together.
I hope to teach my children how to be charitable and giving. I hope to teach them them that giving to others brings love and happiness to their own hearts.
I hope to learn from my children as I realize that each child and person has their own strengths.
I hope to always value myself, and not let things in life weigh down my inner self.

One of my favorite quotes: "I don't want to drive up to the pearly gates in a shiny sports car, wearing beautifully, tailored clothes, my hair expertly coiffed, and with long, perfectly manicured fingernails. I want to drive up in a station wagon that has mud on the wheels from taking kids to scout camp. I want to be there with a smudge of peanut butter on my shirt from making sandwiches for a sick neighbors children. I want to be there with a little dirt under my fingernails from helping to weed someone's garden. I want to be there with children's sticky kisses on my cheeks and the tears of a friend on my shoulder. I want the Lord to know I was really here and that I really lived." — Marjorie Pay Hinckley

Ok, maybe not a station wagon... but you get the idea. I hope to live a life that is a reflection of love and happiness.

And the not so little things

2010-05-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

Events of Yesterday:

Woke up late because the NyQuil I took the night before worked a little too well
Arrived late to work
Felt tired all day - contemplated hiding in a closet to take a nap at work
Received a text from Joel reminding me that he was going to make dinner that night and that my job was to bring home a movie
Watched the clock, waiting for it to finally be time to leave work
Received some texts from Joel while he was at the grocery store
Smiled for the millionth time that day
Finally 5, hurried to pick up the movie and get home
Joel was waiting for me at my place
Tried to help Joel prepare dinner, was physically picked up and placed on the couch and told to relax
Tried again, and again and finally realized there was nothing that I could do to get him to let me help
Watched one of my law shows while I waited for dinner
Dinner was ready - smiled at how absolutely amazing Joel is
Ate tons of the super yummy dinner - Talapia stuffed with crab, green beans with cashews and honey glaze, spinach salad with fruit
Stared at Joel in amazement
Washed the dishes together, even though Joel wanted me to sit on the couch while he did it.
Watched tv while I rubbed Joel's back and listened to him answer the questions on Jeopardy
Watched the movie Brothers and drank a glass of wine, while snuggled up with Joel
Smiled each time he kissed me on the top of my head
Joel told me he had tickets for the Mariners game in 2 weeks.
Smiled thinking about last time we went to the Mariners game.
Snuggles, kisses
Fall asleep smiling - again.

(Am I dreaming?!)

Best Invention

2010-05-04T13:53:00.001-07:00

I may never use my sewing machine again.

Mariners game.... it's the little things

2010-04-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

Last Monday morning while sitting at my desk at work I recieved a text from my friend Natalie. "do you have Will and do you have plans tonight?" "No, and no" I replied. She told me that a friend of hers had tickets to the Mariners game that night, that she and her husband Jake were going and that they needed one more person. "not that it matters, but he's pretty cute" she added. "ok, sounds good. I'm in" We figured out logistics and that we would meet up in Bellevue a bit after 6 to drive to the game together.I hurried home after work to change and let my dog out to go potty. I had no idea what to wear. Knowing Natalie I knew she would not be in jeans with flats on. "Do I dress nicer to match her more, or do I go with the normal casual stuff that I would typically wear to an M's game? I wonder if this guy is expecting me to be like Natalie since I'm Natalies friends??" But I decided to stick with my typical casual, going to a game, attire and threw on some jeans, pumas, t shirt and a jacket.

When I met up with them in Bellevue I found that I was right in my assumption. Natalie was wearing a sweater dress, leggins and knee high boots. :) I had looked Joel up on Natalie's facebook at some point during the day, so I knew in general what he looked like, but I thought he looked even better in person. Joel drove to the game. He and Jake in the front and Natalie and I in the back. I was sitting behind Joel and I liked that he opened my door when I would get in or out of the car. He didn't make a production of it, I could tell that he was just really a gentleman.

Throughout the game Joel and I talked and joked around. He was very easy to get along with. We made bets on the hat trick and the boat races. Both of which I won. He told me that he let me win them so that I would come back for more. :) I felt 15 again. I was excited when our arms touched when we both put our arms on the arm rest. Wow, right? I'm how old? But it made me happy.My favorite moment of the night? The "little thing".... When we were leaving the game, walking through the hordes of people, back to where the car was parked, I had to stop to tie my shoe. Jake, Natalie and Joel continued walking, but when Joel noticed that I had stopped he came back and stood next to me. When I stood up he said "I just didn't want anyone to trip over you." Little thing, but it made me feel good that he even thought to do that. Gentleman.

After the game we stopped for milk shakes (except for Natalie who of course ordered a salad and just drooled over our shakes) and then headed back to where all of our cars were. We said our goodbyes, Joel and I hugged and then I headed home. I think I fell asleep smiling that night.

more randomness

2010-04-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have read this post last year about 25 random things about me. Well I dont have 25 more to share, but I thought maybe I'll give you 5 at a time every once in a while.

1. I find myself counting random things without intending to. Like stairs, or steps to the car from the door. There is no purpose for the counting and once I realize I'm doing it I wonder why I'm doing it, yet I catch myself counting a lot.2. I really really dont like artificial sweeteners. Diet soda = yuck! I can't stand the taste. And they say Coke Zero tastes like regular coke. WRONG. Tastes yucky. I rarely drink soda anyway, but if I do it'll be a chubby coke. And I can taste artificial sweeteners in food as well so dont think you can trick me. Plus, sure they may be less or no calories, but I prefer sugar. My body knows what to do with sugar, it doesn't know what to do with chemicals. And I believe we will someday find out that all of the artificial things we put in our bodies are cancer causing, so I'd like to avoid them for that reason as well.3. Melons make me gag. Watermelon, honeydew, cantaloupe..... gag, gag, gag. The sucky thing is that I want to like them. I still buy watermelon every summer because I like for other people to eat it. People look happy when they eat watermelon. But not me. The closest thing to a melon that I can eat is a cucumber. Cucumbers aren't a melon you say.... well my mouth thinks otherwise. I literally gag if I have a melon, cucumber by it's self has the same reaction. Cucumber smothered in ranch or hummus, I can get down.4. I'm a biter, or more of a nibbler I guess. My favorite thing to bite it my sons buns in jammies. Seriously, when he's climbing up his ladder to get in his bed at night I just can't help myself, I have to get a nibble of those cute jammie buns! Weird thing is I think this is a genetic urge. Weird right? But anyone who knows my Grandma Risenmay knows that she's a biter too. She hugs and kisses everyone, but you know that she really likes you if she gives you a nibble.

5. I love people. Sometimes when they probably dont want or deserve it. I think I smoother them. (Come to think of it, I think I get this from Grandma Risenmay too.) I want people to be happy and I try to make them happy. But I'm learning {slowly} that I can't make people be happy, and that I can show my love but I need to let it happen not force it.

Habits

2010-03-23T11:27:00.000-07:00

Many people are near the conclusion of their observance of Lent. Lent is a Catholic practice, it is a special time of prayer, penance, sacrifice and good works in preparation of the celebration of Easter. Many people choose something to give up or fast for the duration of lent. I personally have never participated in lent but other peoples fast have gotten me thinking about what I would give up if I were to participate. Friends of mine have given up meat, soda, or the like as their lent fast. What would I give up?

I eat meat sparingly
I drink soda maybe once per month
I drink alcohol maybe once per month
I dont eat a lot of sugar (which is a huge improvement from my past)
I dont spend much money on unnecessary things

I think I do most things in moderation. So I dont know if I have something that I really need to give up. However, I am not saying that I am perfect. I have come to the realization that, I dont have any horrible habits, but I dont have any good ones either.

I rarely exercise (which I used to be religious about)
I dont drink enough water
I dont participate in service activities as much as I have in the past

So I guess what I'm saying is that I think I need a reverse lent.... but I guess that's what new years resolutions are for... and really I'm probably too lazy anyway. I guess I'll stick with being mediocre.

Are you participating in lent? Did you have a new years resolution? How's it going? You're doing better than me just by attempting. :)

funky green chair

2010-03-18T14:51:00.000-07:00

I really needed a side chair to put in my room since there is no where to sit to put shoes on or the like. My room is currently decorated with just black and white since I like a minimalist, clean look in my bedroom, but I had decided that I needed to add a pop of color. Green is my favorite color, so naturally I wanted to do green accents in my room. When searching for a chair I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted, and then I found this chair.

It immediately caught my eye, and had a funky apeal to it. It's nothing like the rest of my furniture... but that's why I like it. It looks like it's straight out of my grandma's house, and would totally go with the old orange shag carpet that used to be in my parents house. Totally not what I would expect for myself to want, which really made me want it more. After a few e-mails with links to the above picture of the chair to my design advisors (aka, steph, amanda and dan) I decided I had to have it. Oh and did I mention that it was only $160 from craigslist? It's a bit warn, which I expected, because it's probably really from the 70's, but still in pretty great condition. I'm currently in the process of painting the base/legs black to better match my room. I'm not sure what other green stuff I want to do to tie it all in, so let me know if you have ideas. :)

my color

2010-03-11T14:55:00.000-08:00

According to this quiz, Red is my color. Funny because I've never loved red.

"You boast incredible willpower and are capable of overcoming obstacles that would normally leave others shaking in their boots. You have a penchant for colorful environments and often impress others with your energetic bursts of energy. Your interests in many areas of life often leave you scattered, but when you focus you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. "

My Mom

2010-02-09T14:04:00.000-08:00

My mom is someone who I love very much. The older I get the more I love and appreciate my mom. Being a mother myself has also taught me a lot about my mom. It's made me understand her love for me more than I did before.

Here are just some of the reasons why I love my mom:

She has a fun sense of humor. I think those who don't know my mom well don't know this about her, but she likes to joke and laugh. I think this aspect of her personality creates a lot of fun moments.
She is very creative. She comes up with creative activities, she gives creative gifts. She makes life more fun by adding twists and turns to the everyday ho-hum stuff.
She is non judgemental. I really respect that my mom is not quick to judge. She sees the big picture in many situations and understands that it does no good to judge others.
She loves. There are many qualities that I hope that I have of my moms, but I'm pretty sure that I have this one. From her I have learned to always be someone who loves.
She also loves animals. We have always had a dog in our house and my mom has always treated our family dogs as a member of the family. I think this love and respect for animals has helped to teach all of us in our family about how to love and care for people, animals or things.
She has the ability to keep her home a place of love. There have always been lots of people who are not members of our family who come by our parents house on a regular basis. I think this is because they feel comforted by the feeling of love in my parents home.
She is very good at creating traditions. This probably goes along with her creativity, but my mom has created so many fun traditions in our family. From 7pm ice cream time every Sunday night, to our family Christmas traditions. She gives us opportunities to have fun together and have moments that we can look forward to and depend on.
She is a wonderful Grandma. As most of you know, my mom takes care of my son while I'm at work. I am forever grateful for this. I know she absolutely loves William, and she shows it constantly.
She is selfless. She will give of herself for others and she never looks back or holds it over your head.
She taught me how to be independent. She always made us aware that she would be there for us, but that did not mean that she wouldn't have us pay natural consequences. I think I am a better, more capable adult because of the responsibility that my mom taught me by loving me, but not babying me.
She is my friend. We cry together, laugh together, talk together.

2009 in review

2010-02-03T13:41:00.000-08:00

Last year I filled out this little survey about my year, and planned to do it again at the beginning of the year, but I forgot. Better late than never.

1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before? Bought at home

2. Did you keep your New Year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?My goal was to get into a condo - I did that. As for this year. Ugh. I dunno.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth? My friend Julie, from work. And my friend Amy.

4. Did anyone close to you die? Both of my mom's parents died. Amy's baby died shortly after being born.

5. What countries did you visit? none - wah!

6. What would you like to have in 2010 that you lacked in 2009? Goals beyond owning a home.

7. What dates from 2009 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? Steph and Trevs wedding day because even though it seems ironic now, it was the party of a life time. Also the days surrounding the birth and passing of Amy's baby. I think many of us felt deeply for her through those days.
8. What was your biggest personal achievement of the year? Getting into my new home.

9. What was your biggest failure? I try not to keep those flagged in my mind. they happen, you learn, you move on.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury? yes, click here or here to read about them. oh and here

11. What was the best thing you bought? condo and trip to disneyland

12. Whose behavior merited celebration? Steph's commitment to Trev. We had a fun bachelorette {weekend} and she had the most amazing party.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? not a happy question. I'm not answering.

14. Where did most of your money go? There seems to be a pattern..... condo. Also spent some good money on taking my little man to Disneyland.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about? Steph and Trevs wedding

16. What song will always remind you of 2008? Beyonce - Put a ring on it. Will remind me of dancing to that song with the girls in SeaSide for Steph's bachelorette party weekend.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you: a) happier or sadder? b) thinner or fatter? c) richer or poorer? Happier in some ways, sadder in others, probably fatter, poorer but hopefully with some equity?

18. What do you wish you’d done more of? Spent more one on one time with Will doing things that HE likes.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of? Worry

20. Did you fall in love in 2008? I love, have loved, and will continue loving many people.

21. What was your favorite TV program? Criminal Minds - I miss having tv

22. What was the best book you read? the 5 love languages

23. What was your greatest musical discovery? not new, but I've found that I really enjoy some metallica songs. I love singing to Enter Sandman with Will.

24. What did you want and get? condo

25. What did you want and not get? Same as last year: To win mega millions :)

26. What was your favorite film of this year? The Proposal and The Hangover. Funny flicks.

27. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? I turned 24 (not 25) . Click here for a summary of my b-day
28. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? Winning mega millions :)

29. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008? I used to be really boring. Black and white. I've become more comfortable in colors but still kinda blah. Kinda elementary-school-teacher-who-is-trying-to-be-cool, type look.

30. What kept you sane? My mom and Will

William

2010-02-02T15:05:00.000-08:00

Being February, the month of love, I've decided to focus on the people and things that I love. Lately there have been a lot of {not good} things happening to people that I care about. A lot of things that have made me sad or hurt. So I think focusing on love will help me realize all the beautiful, lovely, relationships and things that I have in my life.

I will start with my biggest love in my life. My son William.

- I love Wills cuddles. They make my heart feel different than anyone else can.

- I love that when we lay down next to each other he puts his arm out and wants me to lay my head on his shoulder, just as if he were a bigger boy that I'd cuddle with

- I love how he randomly tells me that he loves me

- I love how he touches my face (even though sometimes he touches it too harsh, and once he told me that he likes his daddy's face more.)

- I love his buns - naked, in jammies, in jeans.... I just love them

- I love having tickle wars, because unlike other kids, he doesn't try to tickle me back. (I don't like how kids tickle) He just laughs and laughs and then tells me to do it again.

- I love how he holds my hand. We don't always hold hands, but he always knows when I want him to hold my hand and he'll grab my hand before I even ask for it.

- I love it when he sings to music. His 2 favorites: "bubbly toes" by jack johnson and "Enter Sandman" by Metallica

- I love it when he makes up his own songs, that actually sound like they could be real songs and have repeating chorus'

- I love the pictures he draws even though I am a huge blob with eyes in his mind.

- I love how he starts conversations with adult like sayings like: "so I was thinking..." "I have an idea..." "how about we..."

- I love how he loves. He has a big heart and loves people quickly.

- I love that he's become more giving and aware of others feelings lately. He says things like "sorry" and "please" more often than he used to. And I think he actually means them when he says it.

- I love when he tells me jokes. He actually makes me laugh.

- I love that he makes me laugh all the time, without intending to

- I love that when he smiles he has several cheeks

- I love the dimples on his hands, even though they're starting to fade.

- I love that he wears boots a lot. Usually rain boots but occasionally cowboy boots. I especially love when he wears cowboy boots.

- I love how good his memory is, and that he'll randomly say things like "remember when you left my hot dog and your drink on top of the car at costco and started driving? that was funny"

- I love that he loves animals even though he hasn't perfected the "love gently" thing.

- I love that he makes me want to be better.

- I love that he wants to be like me

- I love how much he is like me.

photos by casey brevig

Haiti Relief

2010-01-28T14:39:00.000-08:00

It seems as though there is a lot of hurt and heart ache lately. One such situation that brings much heart ache is the devastation in Haiti after the earthquake. I don't watch the news much but the glimpses that I've caught about the situation in Haiti are absolutely heart breaking. So many people hurt and in need.

Service Steel is a steel provider that Primus (the company that I work for) works with. Mike Hightower, the General Manager of Service Steel, had a daughter, Molly Hightower, who was working at an orphanage in Haiti. Her body has been recovered from a collapsed building where she lived and worked in Haiti.

While she was alive Molly had started a shoe drive to provide shoes for people in Haiti. What an awesome idea! Her parents, along with Service Steel, are continuing this effort. Other business and churches in the area are helping with this shoe drive. To any of you who live on the Eastside, let me know if you have shoes that you'd like to donate. I'd be happy to come by and pick them up to put in the drop box at my work.

Of course financial donations are also needed. There are several organizations helping in the Haiti relief. I encourage you to find one that speaks to you, and donate, even a small amount.

If you would like to donate to rebuilding the orphanage that Molly worked at please visit www.friendsoftheorphans.org/molly

Also if you'd like to read a little about Molly's work at the orphanage please visit her blog at http://www.mollyinhaiti.blogspot.com/

get a new hobby

2010-01-20T14:01:00.001-08:00

Dear Punk who stole my Saab emblems,

Please get a new hobby. I don't understand why you'd want them. I finally replaced them and I don't want to have to do it again.

Thanks,
Saab Owner

Curtains

2010-01-14T16:08:00.000-08:00

So my wonderful boyfriend helped me paint my living room and kitchen/dining room while he was visiting from California over New Years (what a champ!) but now I'm dying to get some curtains up. I went ahead with the colors for the rooms that you guys all helped me decide on. The living room is the dark grayish blue, and the dining room is the green (similar to the ones that are in the below picture)

Because I used somewhat dark colors I'm thinking that I should use a lighter and brighter fabric for the curtains, in order to brighten up the space. Here are two that I like... but I'm worried that:

A. are they too busy?

B. are they too bright?

C. are they too girly?

What do you think? Which do you like? Or should I keep looking? I'm open to suggestions!

Heart Strings

2010-01-12T11:45:00.000-08:00

You know how there are those people that you have an undeniable, unexplainable connection with? Those people that you feel drawn to, they make your smile that much brighter, you feel more like yourself when you are with them, more whole, more of an understanding?

The first time I remember experiencing this was on the first day of 5th grade. I was in a 4th/5th split class. There were only going to be ten 5th graders in the class and I was very nervous that I wouldn’t be happy and wouldn’t have as many friends, since our class was somewhat separated from the other 5th grade classes. Then Steph walked in. (sounds cheesy already right.) She had just moved here from California, and was the new kid. I instantly new that she was going to be my best friend. She and I have talked about it several times since then and we both agree that we were instant best friends. We've had our struggles, just like any friendship, but most importantly we have always, and will always be there for each other.

Most of you who read my blog know Amy. She’s awesome. I was always drawn to Amy. My first memory of this was when I was probably 16. Amy and her husband Damon were the youth leaders who drove the vehicle I was in over to a church youth retreat. I don’t remember who else was in the car, but I do remember thinking that they were both awesome. I clearly remember thinking that I wanted a relationship like they had. That I wanted to be more like them. I thought that that feeling of being drawn to Amy was just a one way thing until about a year and a half ago. Not being active in church I had asked not to have visiting teachers (a person from church who is assigned to check up on you once a month.) I really DID NOT want to have anyone from the church checking on me. But then Amy told me that she had requested to be my visiting teacher because SHE had always felt drawn to ME for some unknown reason.

The funny thing about my friendship with Amy is that we’ve never hung out. I don’t have a picture of myself with her, or any real inside jokes or crazy experiences. But I completely adore her and I do consider her to be my friend.

What was I thinking?!?

2010-01-07T08:40:00.000-08:00

This morning as I arrived to work I noticed that there was a note on my desk. It was folded up so I couldn't see the context of it. I was a bit nervous to see what was inside... Erin (please open)

When I opened the note and saw it's context I totally laughed...

What were you thinking ?!!? naughty grin (Snickers Wrapper included)

I always have a bowl of candy on my desk (mostly just to make me popular, because then people want to come talk to me) but apparently people aren't so happy with me this time. Everyone loves Snickers. What WAS I thinking?! There goes every ones new years resolutions. Sorry! ;)

White Elephant Party

2010-01-06T16:04:00.000-08:00

It has been a tradition the last 3 or 4 years for Steph and I to have a white elephant party in order to get our long time friends together during the holidays. I love it for several reasons but mostly because

1. I LOVE these people but rarely see them

2. We laugh and have a great time

3. It's like we're still 15 when we get together

Life goes on, we change... but really we dont. We get together and we're all exactly how we were years ago.

This years party consisted of

"Let's go fishin'" competition
some food, but pretty much just what the girls made, because the guys apparently dont understand the concept of bringing something to share (some of them did bring drinks, and I think Trev and Noah may have contributed but that's because they were with steph...)
of course the white elephant exchange with many wonderful gifts, but these 2 were my favorites

Whatever this is that Trev brought?!

And Noah's gift of LIVE mice! (At least it was better than his gift last year!)

and a rousing game of King Elephant. This time Jon Williams was not King Elephant the whole time, and even though Risenmay's apparently suck at this game, Reed and I made it to the top! Booya!

We sure do know how to party! ;)

Aren't you Jealous?

2009-12-15T14:46:00.001-08:00

Aren't you jealous that this is what I look like when I wake up in the morning?!

Recovered chairs

2009-12-07T14:55:00.000-08:00

I was kinda unsure about the fabric that I picked for the chairs, but now that it's done I am totally glad that I pick it. I think they look awesome. Whatta you think?

Before

After

Tis the Season

2009-11-20T14:28:00.000-08:00

It's amazing to me that we are entering into "the holiday season." Here are some things that I am looking forward to.

Having family in town. 2 of my Aunts and their families are coming into town for Thanksgiving. It will be fun to see them. (I really really wish my siblings would all be home, but I guess I'll live.)

Food!! Pies especially

Snowflake Lane is always fun to take the kids too. Will and Mickayla loved it last year.

Bellevue Botanical Garden Lights

Nutcracker - one of my friends nieces, who I totally love, will be in the PNB Nutcracker this year, so it'll be especially fun to go to. (this is a picture of the beautiful Maddi.)

Christmas lights in general. It's been SOOO dark on my drive home lately. It'll be nice to have a bit of cheer in the darkness.

Christmas music - I know, I know, not yet. But I'm excited for that time to come.

Gifts - I love giving gifts. I love wrapping gifts. I love organizing gifts under the tree. I love recieving gifts. I just love the idea of giving. Not in a monetary way, but in a heartfelt, show people you care about them way.

Christmas break off of work! Enough said

And probably my favorite... having a child to share Christmas time with! He makes it all much more enchanting.

Disaster turned into laughter

2009-11-16T10:43:00.000-08:00

I've never been superstitious about Friday the 13th (and really I'm still not) but this last Friday, the 13th, made me question it for a bit.

Friday after work I planned on having a nice quiet evening at home, mostly by myself, other than a friend, Ryan, stopping by to help me hang some things. I started working on cleaning up my condo and putting things away as I'm still in the process of getting settled into my new place. While cleaning my bathroom I thought, "I should hang these pictures over my toilet. They're light, so I don't even need a nail, I'll just use a thumb tack."

I was straddling the toilet, trying to hang the pictures, when one of them slipped. It dropped straight down behind the toilet. The next thing I knew there was water spraying everywhere, at what seemed like a million miles an hour. Luckily when I had my inspection a few weeks ago the inspection guy showed me where the main water turn off was. I quickly turned off the main water, but my bathroom was completely filled with water and the water was beginning to go into my closet and bedroom. I threw down towels and began to clean up the mess. I used all of my (white) bath towels, so I went and grabbed the only other towels I had, the beach towels. Not a big deal, except in my panic to get things cleaned up I threw all the wet towels in the bathtub to deal with them later - not thinking about the wet red towel laying on the white towels. ugh.

Once the water was dried up I went to asses the damage. Right away, when I grabbed the cord to the toilet it sliced my finger open. Really?! ugh. It wasn't a bad cut but was at an angle, and needed a band aid on it to keep it closed. Naturally, I couldn't find any band aids.

Then I got a call from Ryan, who had been at the gym working out. He's said "are you ok?!" I said, "I think so." He says, "I keep getting emergency texts from you. 'my bathroom is flooded', 'I cut my finger', 'I can't find any band aids.'" He also said, "weren't you supposed to wait for me to help you hang things?... don't do anything else, I'll be there soon."

Feeling a bit relieved I decided I would change my focus and start making dinner. Rice and steak, no big deal right? Easy.

Ryan got there and I answered the door. I felt pretty UNcool. My hair a mess, my pants rolled up from wading through the water in my bathroom. I scrambled back into the kitchen to continue making dinner. My knifes were sitting on one part of the stove top, but out of the way of what I was doing. Unfortunately, I turned on the wrong burner, and melted my knifes. We sat down to eat and things just got worse. He said he liked his meat somewhat rare, but I mean this cow was still moo-ing. I threw them back on the pan (since I don't have a grill.) and tried to cook them longer. We tried eating them again, but finally gave up. *ugh, I felt like a loser*

We then realized that if we wanted to try to come up with a solution for the bathroom problem that we should head to Home Depot. We got there at 9:52, right as their closing announcements started. We quickly grabbed some parts that we hoped would work and were quickly ushered out by the employees who were anxious to get home.

We did what we hoped would be a good enough repair (which I found out the next morning did not work.) No fault of Ryan's as he was a bit rushed when we were at Home Depot trying to find a solution.

Finally, I tried to relax. But not before dropping the bag of dog food, when trying to fill up Decko's bowl, which resulted in dog food spilled all over the kitchen floor.

Eventually, we sat on the couch, and talked and laughed. (We had been laughing all night, but it was a bit different because earlier we were just laughing AT me.) After all of the ciaos of the night everything felt ok.

New Favorite Etsy Shop

2009-11-12T11:21:00.000-08:00

So now that I am moved in to my new condo, I am of course dreaming even more about how I want to decorate. I'm still in the dreaming stage because I haven't even unloaded all of my boxes, but I'm getting close to being able to start decorating. Today I decided that I'd start looking around for throw pillows to tie together my living/dining area. From the last post we all decided that the walls will be painting a dark blue-grey. The wood in the kitchen and living area is dark cherry or walnut. My sofa is a sage-ish green, and then I will have 2 brown leather accent chairs. I'm thinking that because a lot of this is very dark, that I will need to accent with pillows and decor in lighter colors.

I ran into this wonderful Etsy store and fell in love with just about everything that the seller makes. I was thinking these 2 pillows would be great on the accent chairs to help lighten things up.

Let me know what you think, take a look at her store and let me know which ones you think would look best. She also has the most adorable framed prints that make me feel happy just by looking at them!

dreaming... livingroom

2009-10-29T13:45:00.000-07:00

So now that I'm going to have a living room that is MINE, how shall I decorate it. The living room, dining room and kitchen are all open to each other so I need ideas that can go throughout. This is what I'm currently thinking of doing. Let me know your honest opinions.

All of the wood (cabinets, floor in the kitchen, dining table, coffee table) is all cherry or dark walnut.

My sofa (Candice, aren't you proud that I said sofa, not couch?) is a sage greenish color.

The walls will be a bluish gray

And then accents such as picture frames, throw pillows, etc will be lighter colors.

Here are a few pictures that I made on the Benjamin Moore site that give you an idea of the colors. I wont use all of those colors on the walls, I just put them on the walls to give you an idea of the colors.

Do you like the lighter blue for the walls (the bottom picture) or the darker blue (from the first two pictures?)

I'm even thinking of getting this fabric for the seat cushions on my dining room chairs. It's bold, but I figure it's a small use of it, so it shouldn't be too much. What do you think?

Almost Mine

2009-10-21T11:31:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been very good about blogging. I've been stressed with the whole -trying to by a condo - thing. It's looking like it's all going to pan out. I gave up on the short sale that I had an offer on. Because I found another unit, in the same complex that I think it better for Will and I. It has a second bathroom, which I think will be good as Will gets older and we each want our privacy. The master bedroom isn't quite so big, but big enough, and has a bathroom and big walk in closet attached. Other pros to this unit: lots of light, hasn't been lived in since the renovation (brand new kitchen, bathrooms, floors, walls, appliances,) and it also looks out to a grass area, which is great so that Will can play outside and I can watch him from inside. I think we'll be really happy there.

The inspection and appraisal have been completed, so the paperwork just needs to be wrapped up. We are aiming to close the first week of November. I'm excited (but still stressed!)

These pictures don't really do it justice, and I didn't get pictures of everything, but here's a little taste of it.

Kitchen with Cherry cabinets and floors and stainless steel appliances

Kitchen and dining room are open to living room
Will's and guests bathroom (bathtub not shown, but he does have a full bath.)

Master Bath, that is connected to my room and also leads to the large walk in closet

Girls Night Out

2009-10-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

My friend Joy hosted a girls night this last Saturday on her dad's yaught. She called it a "Boa Bellini" and we were all required to bring a boa.

We ate some yummy snacks, hung out and talked... played "the fun game', and laughed a lot...

brought out our boas....

danced....

And then... a weird thing happened... we ended up doing a wall sit competition...

maybe we felt bad after eating all of those calories? I dont know how it happened actually but it was entertaining.

I LOVED girls night. I haven't laughed so hard in a long time. Thanks girls for a fun night!

this dog (?)

2009-10-05T11:01:00.000-07:00

This is my dog, Decko

Well actually my Dad and I have decided that he is 1/4 Dog, 1/4 rat, and 1/2 cat, but the pet license I have for him is for a dog....

Anyway, I love my dog. He's 6 years old and weighs about 11 pounds. We don't know what breed he is. Chihuahua, mixed with something bigger. We say he is half cat because he snuggles just like a cat. As soon as you sit down, he's on your lap. Decko will also eat anything! That must be the dog part of him.

This morning at 4:30 I woke up to Decko whining. I figured he needed to go potty, so I let him out to take care of business. Usually he'd go right back to sleep, but for the rest of the morning he was completely restless, which also meant I didn't get any sleep. He would snuggle up, then after 2 minutes he would walk around the bed. Then he'd snuggle up again, then he'd walk around the bed.... finally I got up and started getting ready for work. Normally Decko stays in bed, but not this morning. He sat between my legs while I stood in the bathroom doing my make up. And every few minutes he would put 1 paw on me, like he wanted my attention. I would give him loves but it didn't make him feel better. I don't know what his deal was.

Maybe there is going to be an earthquake, or maybe I'm sick? Dogs seem to sense things before humans do. ... then again, maybe he was just being annoying and didn't want me to sleep. Who knows.

Was anyone elses animals acting weird this morning?

Embracing Fall

2009-10-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

So I thought I was excited for fall. I love layers. Boots, scarfs, gloves... So I was excited for the change in season, until about 2 days ago. I was driving home and the traffic was horrible because the rain was coming down so hard. That's when it all came rushing back to me, fall in Seattle is not like what you see in the movies, it's just a LOT of rain. But I tried to think of the rain as soothing. I was somewhat successful until I got home to my parents house. They live at the bottom of a hill and have a driveway the slopes down to the garage. Their was so much rain that the garage was flooding! And to make things worse, I had a bunch of furniture sitting in the garage that I've been spending hours painting and re staining in preparation for my new condo. (still no for sure word on the condo, but I'm still hopeful.) My furniture was sitting in 3 to 5 inches of dirty, freezing cold water. I ran inside, slipped on my little sisters rain boots, grabbed a large bowl and headed out to bail out the garage in hopes of saving my furniture.

Once my mom and sister got home they started helping me bail out all the water. A neighbor was also kind enough to join in on the fun.

UGH! That's all I have to say about that. It looks like my dining table and chairs will be ok. Will's dresser is ruined, and a few other things have minor damage, but hopefully I can sand them down and repaint them and they'll look ok.

So in effort to get back into loving fall I was looking through this slide show of "leave crafts". I particularly love the 11th one. I think I am going to try to make something similar to the top butterfly. I think it'll be a fun project to go out collecting leaves with my son. I'll let you know how it goes.

Sexy boot

2009-09-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

I just had the easiest jean shopping experience in my entire life!! So I've read on a few blogs that the new Gap 1969 Jeans are amazing. I was doubtful because 1. I love my sevens and 2. Gap jeans/pants have always made my butt look awful. But I was in need of a new pair of flat shoe jeans. (I've been in need for a while, since this incident.) So I decided I'd stop by Gap, expecting to try on like 10 different pairs and to walk out feeling fat and awkward and all of those other horrible jean shopping feelings. I started by looking at the "Perfect Boot" cut. The sales lady told me that they were mid rize and that I may want to try the "Sexy Boot," which is a low rise. I grabbed a pair of each and headed into the fitting room.

I put on the Sexy Boot cut and was instantly amazed! They fit nice. Fitted but no muffin top. And TOTALLY comfy. But then I did the butt check. Since these were low rise I assumed if I bent over my booty would be hanging out the top. Nope! Perfect. Low and "sexy" but no crack-il-lackin'. I was in love!

Oh and another wonderful thing, that most of you don't have to worry about, but I do... I ALWAYS have to have my pants hemmed. Regular length is always too long, but short or petite length is always too short. But Gap has the "ankle" length. It was the perfect length to wear with flats or kitten heels. Can it get more perfect!

Oh yes it can! Seven for all mankinds usually retain at about $160 or so. These Gap, fit my body so right, jeans were only $69 including tax!

Yay for an awesome jean shopping experience!!

The good life for less

2009-09-24T10:23:00.000-07:00

That's what we all want right? To live well, dress well, be well... but for less. That's what I want at least.

One of my favorite blogs that I've been reading lately is http://goodlifeforless.blogspot.com/ Jill, the blogger, is a genius. Well at least I think so. She's SO wonderful at pairing clothes, and giving suggestions on super affordable clothes that make you look like a million bucks. It's inspirational! She also gives ideas and shows before and afters of projects that she has done around her house, or food that she makes. She's so real and normal, and yet amazing! Take a look at her blog.

I especially love her ideas for dressing for the fall. Look at http://goodlifeforless.blogspot.com/2009/09/good-look-for-less-jackie-of-sppn.html love these ideas!

My heart is touched!

2009-09-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

My friend Antonella lost her only brother to Suicide a couple years ago. I have seen her and her sister stuggle with this loss. Last year they did an over night walk to raise money for suicide awareness and prevention. This year I decided to join her in the walk (not over night, just a 3 to 5 mile walk) to show my support to her, and her family. I set my fundraising goal to a measly $100 but feared that I wouldn't even be able to raise that much. I was completely amazed when within 5 or so minutes the donations I received were over my goal.

This is Antonella's son Jackson. He walks for his Uncle Jimmy.

Thank you to those of you who have donated! And for any of you who would like to donate, please do not let my small goal hold you back!

Here is where you can go to donate: http://afsp.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&eventID=937&participantID=69542 Every little bit helps!

And here is a link to Jimmy's virtual memorial page so you can learn about him and his awesome life! http://jamesvincentduruz.virtual-memorials.com/

Food for thought

2009-09-15T11:57:00.000-07:00

Here are some books that I love and have helped me and continue to help me in my pursuit of a happy life. :)

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. I read this book every few months. It helps to keep me in check. Synopsis of this book: it's about freeing yourself from others judgements and making your own decisions about who you are and what your personal value is. (Also check out The Mastery of Love, also by Don Miguel Ruiz, its a great relationship book.)

Another one that I just finished reading is The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. I think this is a must for every couple, and really any single person. Synopsis: this book helps you identify the ways in which you need love expressed to you in order to feel truly loved. People are generally 1 or more of 5 different love languages. By understanding your partners "love language" you can better express your love in a way that they will feel and appreciate it the most. This can also apply to friends, children, family, anyone around you.

Does anyone have any other must reads?

Iron Girl Walk

2009-09-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

Ok let me just start this off by saying we do not deserve the title "iron girl" we did this walk as just that, a WALK. In fact our finish time for the 5K (3.1 miles) was a whopping 1hour and 4minutes. So it was hardly even a stroll. But we enjoyed it and it was well worth the time.

Our group participants were, Myself, my sister Mickayla, my friend Antonella, her daughter Bailey and my other friend Courtney. Let me just say that I completely love all of these people. What an awesome group to stroll around Greenlake with!

Antonella, Courtney and I have decided that we (mostly me) need to be more active. Courtney and Nella are both personal trainers, and my desk job has done horrible things to my body, so they are going to be my encouragement to get out and be more active.

Apparently Bailey likes to be carried!

Side note: Antonella and Courtney are both AWESOME trainers and uplifting positive people. I became friends with them when I worked at Golds Gym in Redmond. If you are looking for a personal trainer then definitely contact them.

Courtney works at Golds Gym in Redmond: 425-883-9494

Antonella trains out of her home. Visit her website at http://www.ichooseactive.com/ She also sends out newsletters with tips and monthly active outings. The active outings are no cost and just a fun way to get out and have some fun while being active. Comment, or contact Antonella or myself if you'd like to be added to her newsletter email list. The more the merrier (and the more people to encourage me!!) ;)

LOL

2009-09-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

Maybe I'm just in need of a laugh as I watch the clock tick by on this Friday afternoon, but I thought this picture was great! It wouldn't let me copy it so click on the link below.

http://photoblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2009/07/24/2009247.aspx

Yummy treat

2009-09-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

Each year for Christmas the CEO of our company gives all of the employees in our office a "Fruit of the Month" membership from Harry and David. Although I wouldn't mind just getting the cash for the price of this gift, I do enjoy getting my fruit each month.

Yesterday, my September fruit arrived. I box of peaches. They smelt delicious and were perfectly ripe. So I decided to have the below as my dessert. Peaches, crumbled graham crackers and a (large) dollop of whipped topping. DELISH!

not feeling 100%

2009-09-08T12:07:00.002-07:00

I feel exhausted. This picture is what I saw on my phone last night while laying across 2 airport seats. UGH!

I had a great weekend in the Bay Area, visiting my 2 oldest sisters. My flight home last night was supposed to be late but not too bad. Well... it got delayed. It landed back in Seattle at 2:17am but after catching the shuttle to my car, retrieving my car and driving back home, it was about 3:30. Then I couldn't fall asleep because I was worried that I wouldn't wake up at 6:30 when my alarm went off. There for I got less than 3 hours of sleep. Oh joy!

Happy thought: It's TUESDAY! I love weeks that start on Tuesday!

(To read about my adventures this past weekend visit my other blog, littleprincewilliam.blogspot.com)

Utah Mom meets Gothic Skater

2009-09-04T09:51:00.000-07:00

Ok, so it's too late now.... I did it. I dont know how I feel but I guess it's growing on me. The cut is short! and I feel like it's a total mom cut. As my brother in law told me, it's like a Utah mom cut. (Which by the way I know he meant that in a positive way and I'm totally not offended.) Utah moms are always trying to be stylish. The color is really dark. I wanted dark, but this is way dark. I know it'll wash out a bit, and I'll probably get used to it too, but yah, it's way dark.

Oreos

2009-09-02T16:28:00.000-07:00

Today I broke into my stash of Oreo's that I have hidden in the bottom drawer of my desk at work. Did you know that a serving size of Oreos is 3 cookies!? Seriously, 3! No way. I got out 6 and sealed the (resealable) package. How many oreos do you usually eat? Am I a pig or is it normal to eat more than the "suggested serving size?"

I was talking to my friend Rachel a few minutes ago. I mentioned to her that I was eating oreos and Milk. To which she replied, "You know what goes well with Oreos?" I thought she would tell me something like peanut butter or something like that. She sent me a link, and when it opened up this is what I saw.

I think he goes well with just about anything. Wouldn't you agree?

Breakfast

2009-09-02T14:33:00.000-07:00

A lot of people don't eat breakfast (shame on you!) But I think a lot of people don't because they are not morning people and they think that they don't have time for breakfast.

Here is a link to some quick and easy breakfasts from Delish.com. I love delish. They have great recipes and ideas.

Here is one of my personal favorites. I used to eat these for breakfast all the time.

Tip: to make it even less of a morning time consumer, put the yogurt in little Tupperware ahead of time. And the granola in baggies. That way in the morning all you have to do is grab a container of yogurt, a baggie of granola and a spoon and you're on your way.

Another tip: use plain yogurt rather than vanilla yogurt. I know, I know, it sounds gross, but it's not. When you eat it with granola, and especially when you eat it with fruit too, you definitely don't need the flavoring or the extra sugar. It tastes great, AND it's better for you. Win, Win!

Bon Appetite!

Shorter and Darker

2009-09-01T09:57:00.000-07:00

No I am not talking about my choice in men... I'm talking about my hair. I think I want it shorter and darker...

I NEED a new do! You know when you are just sick of your look. Sick of your clothes. Sick of your hair... just feeling B.L.A.H? Well I'm there! Unfortunately I can't get all new clothes. (dang it!) But I am thinking of making a change to my hair. I really want to go darker, and probably shorter. I think most men don't like short hair, and maybe it'll make me look more like a mom (which although I AM a mom, I don't want to look "mom") But whatever, I think I'm going to do it anyway. And I want to look like this. Isn't she adorable!? So tell me what you think now, or forever hold your peace.... because once I do it I don't want to hear what you think, unless it's that you think I'm adorable. ;)

Designer for Less

2009-08-31T08:46:00.000-07:00

I love nice clothes, but I hate paying for them. I have recently become a (free) member of the following sites. All of which give discounts on designer clothes. (yay) Although, really I'm too cheap for most of these things even at sale prices.

Seven For All Mankind are definitely my favorite brand of jeans and on Sept 3rd through the 5th they are going to be on sale on Rue La La. They'll probably sell our SUPER fast though.

Rue La La invite

Gilt Fuse invite

Hautelook invite

Happy Shopping!!!

bits of hippie

2009-08-28T14:29:00.000-07:00

I would never consider myself "green" or to be a "hippie" but I do recycle and I try to make my little differences in the world.

Today I bought these cute bags to add to my reusable bag collection. (hopefully I'll actually remember to bring them IN to the store.)

I also feel drawn to these recycled bottles that are turned into cups. How cute! Check out the sellers etsy shop for all kinds of recycled cups.

I really like these shoes! And I asked a co-worker what she thought of them. She said, "I love them, but they are totally hippie!" She's a hippie at heart, so of course she loved them, but she was surprised that I did.

Speaking of hippies and the like... a week from today I am headed down to the Bay area to visit 2 of my sisters and their husbands and one niece! (yay! I love my family!) The sister and bro-in-law that I'm staying with live just outside of Berkley. So I'll get to see some real hippies! Yay for all natural. I love people with passion!

full of love

2009-08-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have those times that you feel like you are just so full of love and gratitude? I'm having one of those moments. Thinking about my past week I think about the wonderful people who bless my life daily. I love laughing, and crying, and just talking with these wonderful people.

I also feel like I love people that I don't even know. I've been reading a lot of blogs lately, and I feel like there is just love seeping through the computer. Maybe it's just relating to them and their joys and their struggles.

I don't know what it is, but I love this feeling of love. So thank you all for being SO awesome!

I love you!!! :)

Statement Rings

2009-08-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've really been loving big, chunky, statement rings. I have some, which I usually get at Forever 21 because they are uber cheap, but here are some others that I love love.

This one is from staroftheeast etsy shop.

This one, from overstock.com.

This one is from the FlawlessArt etsy shop.

If you didn't notice I love to window shop on etsy.com. I like the handmade stuff. So if you ever have the desire to buy me a gift, feel free. :)

Look better NAKED!

2009-08-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

I've thought many times that all I need to do to motivate myself to eat better and work out more often is to just put a picture of my naked body somewhere where I would see it often. The problem is that then other people may also see this picture of my naked body... not such an appealing idea. Thus I have never done that.

Down the street from my work there is a new gym opening up. It's the David Barton Gym. Their ad slogan is "Look better naked." I like the idea and I understand that they are trying to take the bold approach. That is also obvious by taking a look at their website. (which, btw, is not for childrens eyes)

One of the girls I work with is going to join the David Barton Gym and she invited me to go with her to their pre-opening party. I have no intention of joining the gym, and I am purely going for the free appetizers and the social hour aspect of it.

And one last thought about this... every day I drive by where the new gym will be located. They have HUGE window signs advertising the gyms opening. This person is on all of the signs. My question is: Is this I man or a woman? I'm confused. Make-up, but something about them makes me feel like it's a man? What are your thoughts?

I'll let you know how the appetizers are! :)

New blog

2009-08-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

When my oldest sister moved away to California, she made each of us promise that we would have a blog so that she could stay informed on what is going on with each of our lives. My blog was intended to keep friends and family updated with the happenings in my son and my life. However, my rambling mind took over. I've recently noticed that the random posts are out numbering the posts about Will and myself... so I decided to create this blog for my randomness and keep the other one from our day to day family adventures.

I dont know if anyone will read this, but that's ok, it's more of an outlet for me. :) But if you DO read, please do comment. I love comments!

Much love!
The Rambling Erin