Listen.

If you're inclined to engage in behavior that isn't good for you in an effort to stave off any feelings of loss or loneliness, you need to understand that doing so would only make you feel worse. You may be in a phase now where you're pondering all the things that haven't gone right for you. But this is just a phase, and it should pass as the stars bring about a calmer, more supportive period for you. You need to have faith that it's all about to get much better. Stay foncused and do something that makes you feel good. The fog is about to lift to reveal a dazzling new day.

.........

This was my horoscope on my phone today. Wow, if these aren't the EXACT words that I didn't need to hear today....

Now if only I can listen.

A little redecorating...

Hey everyone! We are back from our vacation and I will have a little recap up soon. We have been SWAMPED at work for the past month, which is both a blessing and a curse. I'm sure I'll be thankful at the end of the month when I cash in my bonus check but right now I really don't see how we are going to get caught up.

Anyways, speaking of bonus checks, I plan on (FINALLY) buying myself a new bed. And to go along with that new bed, of course new bedding, new side tables and new table lamps. I am loving these:

You can bet that CSN online stores will be one of the first places I look!

I'll be back as soon as I can find the bottom of my desk......

I can't even contain myself...

My little sister, who lives in North Carolina, is having a baby soon. I am soooo excited to finally be an aunt. And for Brody to no longer be the only child in the family. We are going out to visit them a few weeks after the new addition is born, the first week in March.

This is the first real "vacation" that Brody will be going on. Besides weekends here and there, never far away, we did go to Texas for a family wedding once when he was 10 months old. So, needless to say, the little booger is EXCITED. First plane rides! woo!

What he doesn't know...is that I am planning another vacation inside of our vacation. We are going to fly from Charlotte to Orlando for 2 days in that week long visit to my sister.....

as in HOGWARTS CASTLE. UNIVERSAL STUDIOS.

He is going to FLIP OUT!!! I can't wait. Every time those commercials come on he stops whatever he is doing to watch, and makes me promise that the NEXT time we get to go on vacation, please, please, please let's go there...

Hee. Hee. Hee.

I have to admit, I'm a bit nervous about all this traveling by myself. I have our plane tickets booked already, but am still debating on where we are staying in Florida. To me, I think it might just be worth it to stay at one of Universals hotels. It's right there, which means no trying to get from a to b for me, and you also get the fast pass thing, plus some other perks. It is more expensive, yes, but what do you think? Has anyone stayed there? Is it worth it?

I do NOT want to have to get a car, even take a cab if it's not neccessary. So hotels with shuttle service to and from the airport would also be a major plus.

I haven't been down to Universal since I was 22....(8 years ago, holy cow...). I am soooo excited for the new Hogwarts area, but what else is different? Any special tips for me??

Let's start this year off right, shall we?

"We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather recognizing and appreciating what we do have."

~Frederick Keonig

CSN! CSN!

Remember my last post, about a decade ago? Where I had something to review? Well, it was backordered. Apparently everyone else wanted one too. BUT, yesterday it arrived:




Now she's at home looking all cute and sassy sitting on my stovetop. Love her.

So I'm back to cyber-window shopping at CSN. My latest crush? This round chair -



I need 5 of them in red. They'll look fabulous on my patio.

CSN Review coming soon

Do you ever "window shop" online???

You know, fill up your virtual cart with everything that you would love to have, whether it be new clothes, shoes, dishes or even bathroom cabinets to remodel your ugly seafoam green bathroom???

It's one of my favorite things to do. Especially on slow days at work - haha!!

Browsing around CSN today.....be back soon!

Switching things up...

Hey all. Sorry I've neglected this blog. A lot has been going on with me lately, and I've been waddling through the massive mess (it seems) and really focusing on me.

I've decided it's time to make changes. Lots of em. I've been weeding out people, things, commitments, you name it. and I feel really good about it.

Things will be changing around here as well. In fact, this whole blog may be gone. It's a time for new beginnings, and I'm ready to fully embrace it.

Stay tuned. I'm excited, I hope you are too!

Discussion Questions Chapters 21-35

My life has stopped this weekend.

Between our town's celebration, Western Days, and my dad re-shingling my roof, I'm surprised I've found time to read at all, BUT - I can not put this book down. I'm sure I'll be finished by Tuesday! Here's my quick response to the next questions.

1. Do you think Tim is the one sending the money?
Maybe... but I think it's probably Naomi. I think that it makes more sense, because she actually CARED about the baby. Tim did not care at all that Genevieve was even pregnant, so I doubt he'd be helping out Eve. I don't think his feelings were EVER real for her.

2. So far, there's been a lot of discussion on CeeCee/Eve and her choices. What choice(s) would you make differently from her?
I'm not sure. I do think she's way too overprotective of Cory. It wasn't so bad when she was a baby, but now she is growing up, and needs to experience mistakes, failure, hurts...

3. What do you like about Jack? Are there things about him that you don't like?
I like Jack. He seems to be a genuine person. A little goofy, maybe, but a good guy! I think I'd like him in real life.

4. What are the differences between CeeCee/Eve's relationship with Tim and Eve's relationship with Jack?
I think it's similar that she still "needs" and craves love/attention. I don't really see her standing up for herself much, and I feel like Jack is in charge. BUT Jack is such a different person than Tim, in that he wants to share the relationship with Eve, not control it. It's obviously the better relationship, but it's still not perfect.

5. Do you think Eve is to blame for Cory's fears? What could she do, specifically, to help Cory feel like less of an outsider?
Partially....she was very overprotective, but I think it's also just how Cory is. I don't beleive that it's all Eve's fault she is so fearful. She needs to keep pushing Cory, get her involved, even if she doesn't want to. She needs to face her fears, especially the small ones.

6. Do you think Eve appropriately answered Cory's questions about her father? Do you think Cory will question her father more as she grows older?
I think she did the best she could. Anything that she had said would be a lie...and no matter what, it's going to come back to bite her in the end. Of course, the older she gets, the more curious about her family, both the one she has now, and the one she doesn't know, she is going to be.

Discussion Questions Chapters 11-20

Guys, this book is great!! I read 10 chapters today....some while at work, shh!!!


I can't wait to see what is going to happen!

1. Where do you think Tim and Marty are at this point in the story?
I'm guessing they are hiding out, Tim probably with his other "girlfriend"... I know some of the other book clubbers are holding on to the idea that he is a good guy...but I am not buying it. I guess I've dated one too many jerks!!

2. What were your thoughts as CeeCee was helping Genevieve deliver her baby?
I think she did the best she could, under the circumstances. I had a feeling the mother would die, and I kept thinking to myself what a JERK Tim was!

3. After Genevieve died, what would you have done with her baby if you had been in CeeCee's shoes? Probably the same thing. I would have kept the baby, what else could she have done?? Poor girl, always seems to draw the short straw. But she makes the best of it.

4. Why do you think CeeCee/Eve is still holding onto hope that Tim will come for her?
She's young. First love.... She craves the love, she has no one else to love her. I think she's going to surprise us all though. She is incredibly strong, and it's really starting to show.

5. How do you think Eve will establish her new identity in Virginia?
She'll do what is expected, and work her way up. I think she'll meet a new man...

6. What do you think of CeeCee/Eve now after she has gone through with the kidnapping, the delivery of the baby, the escape, and the relocation?
I actually like her more now. Not because of what she has done, really, but because now her character has CHARACTER. I think she's going to get angry with Tim, and realize she was just a pawn in this whole thing. She's going to be an amazing mother, and really succeed... at least, she would if I was writing the story!

Can't wait for more!

Also, I know I have a review to do. The weather has been so humid here that we haven't had a chance to really enjoy what I got from CSN. This past week was nice, and the weekend looks good too, so I'll snap some pics of us enjoying the end of summer and get up the review!

A NEW book club to love...

A while back I signed up for what I thought was going to be a really fun book club/exchange. It didn't work out. No one in my group continued on and won't even answer emails. I am out a brand new book that I hadn't even read yet.

Then, I came across this new Book Club. I keep my own book, and answer/discuss with others online. I quickly signed up and ordered my book. I'm a little behind, because my book took forever to get here. Luckily it's (so far) a great read and I think I'll catch up soon.

The first book we are reading is The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes by Diane Chamberlain. Here are my responses to the first 10 chapters:


Rachel and I came up with six questions for you to discuss. Feel free to post on these questions or to write about other things that you found interesting in the first ten chapters.
Reminder: Please remember not to post spoilers. I know many of you couldn't put the book down, but some people haven't finished yet. If you think you may be posting a spoiler, go ahead and put up a red "SPOILER ALERT" in that part of your post.

1. What was your first impression of Tim?
I think he's up to no good....see's CeeCee as naive, and in love, and I am betting he will use her to his advantage and leave her crying in the dust.

2. If you were in CeeCee’s position, would you be willing to help your boyfriend in the way that she is willing to help Tim? I don't know, if I was CeeCee, with not much else besides my boyfriend, maybe....but I'm not, and I'm too independent to see myself in her position.

3. Why do you think CeeCee is so eager to please Tim? She craves love. He is giving it to her, and she doesn't want to lose it. Or him. She doesn't have much else in the world.

4. Who do you think has it harder? Tim or CeeCee? CeeCee, definately. Tim has his issues too, but I don't feel sorry for him at all.

5. What character trait(s) about CeeCee stuck out the most to you in these first ten chapters?
She is very naive, but it's because she is very young. She is doing what she has to do, and I really respect her for that. I'm glad she found temporary happiness with Tim, but I am hoping she doesn't end up with him, it's for the wrong reasons.

6. Do you think CeeCee is as mature as she seems? Nope, not at all.

Lazy days of summer...

Holy smokes! Where has the summer gone?? I can not believe it's almost August. We've been busy with weddings, school shopping and the pool! How about you?

You guys all know how much I love CSN stores (all 200+ of them). I have gotten some great things there, including a new teapot and some pretty cool bar glasses. Just browsing through earlier today, and added to my list of needs: a new coffee maker, an outdoor rug, and a little something else I'll be excited to share with you in a few days!

Let's just say it's time to relax and enjoy the remaining days of summer in style!! Come back soon!

It's not intentional.

Sorry everyone. We are now one wedding down, and the next one starts in 2 weeks with the first bridal shower. I have lots to recap on, including:

1) the firing of hellacious coworker and rehiring of awesome new one
2) love
3) the wedding and all that jazz
4) so so much more.

I have lots of posts in my head. I just haven't had time to share them. BUT since we now have someone else working here again ( I was doing both jobs, which meant no free time to blog) I will be back soon.

This weekend, HOPEFULLY Toy Story 3 with the Bman. Can't wait!!

Mommy and Me Mondays

Brody had a completely wonderful birthday, surrounded with friends, family presents and a lot of sugar!

Here is a shot of me and him I self-took before the festivities began.

So happy I finally remembered to join in on Mommy and Me Mondays again!! :)

Hosted by Krystyn

Happy Birthday Brody!!

Just a quick post to wish my little man a

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY!!!!

You are growing up so fast, and I'm loving every minute of it.

I couldn't ask for a happier, funnier, kind, polite, handsome, friendly and some time darn right goofy kid!

I love you so much I can't stand it.

My new tea kettle

A few weeks ago I was contacted by Jason from the CSN promo team. He asked me if I'd like to do a product review, and I of course jumped at the chance!! I actually knew exactly what I wanted, a tea kettle.

See, I've been trying to phase out Diet Coke in my life (3 weeks strong!!)and have been drinking more and more tea lately. But, since I have no tea kettle, how I make tea is pour tap water into a mug, put it in the microwave for three minutes, and then add the tea bag. Lame. I know.

Introducing my new tea kettle!! Don't you love it?? Here's some information on it:

This 2.25 qt. teakettle features a comfortable grip handle that is gently arched for a wide grip. The whistle is loud and clear to alert you when water comes to a boil, and a removable lid makes for easy cleaning and filling. The attractive and fashion-savvy colored enamel exterior is durable and easy to clean.
Features:

•Colored enamel exterior is long lasting and easy to clean
•Durable whistle signals when water has reached a boil
•Comfortable gently arched handle
•Removable lid for easy cleaning and filling
Specifications:
•Color: Pear Green
•Material: Stainless steel with porcelain exterior enamel
•Capacity: 2.25 Quart
•Cleaning and Care: Hand wash
•1 year hassle-free replacement warranty, plus lifetime limited warranty


After oohing and awwing over how pretty it was, I quickly washed it up and filled it up for my first cup. Only a few minutes later I heard a low distinct whistle and started steeping my tea bag. I felt so grown up!!

I've been using it every day for the past week and I love it. No more heating water in the microwave for this girl!!!

Thanks Jason and CSN for the great product to review!

Review coming soon...

I've been browsing CSN a lot lately. I need new lighting in my living room, and I'd love to have recessed lighting in there. While snooping around, I found this beautiful chandelier that I think I simply must have for the dining room!

How stunning is this??





I know, right? It's begging me to buy it.

well, I've put it on "the list". Someday, it will be mine. But for now, I'll just have to do with the new teapot I'm getting from CSN to review! Coming soon...

HI!

Wow, is anyone else in need of a vacation? I just can't believe how busy we are.
And it's not going to slow down any time soon. Here is just my weekend schedule for the next few months:

April 24 - tux appointment for Brody, meeting friends in park on Sunday
May 1 - Bridal Shower (hosting)
May 8 - Bachelorette party in Omaha
May 9 - mommy's day!
may 10 - Brody's track meet
May 15 - dress fitting for wedding #1
(sometime between the 15th and 22nd) - preschool graduation
May 22 - Brody's bday party
May 29-31 - weekend trip with Brody to Omaha
June 5/7 - alumni weekend, and final dress fitting
June11/12 - wedding weekend
June 20 - my dads birthday
June 27 - 2nd wedding bridal shower, plus huge town 125th bday celebration
July 4 - I think we might just stay home...
July 11 - FREE!!!!!!
July 17 - Bachelorette party for wedding #2
July 24th - my cousins bridal shower
Auguest 1 - dress fitting
August 8 - so far is free.... but there are weddings to attend
August 14 - wedding weekend #2
August 21/22 - Emerson Western Days

whew. I'm already tired!

I have also been extremely busy at work, making new catalogs, ads, and mailers for out products. And yard work. I love yard work, but seriously hate what it does to my hands. My nails are horrible.

Isn't Brody a fantastic little artist? he gets better every day!

Sorry this post is all over the place, isn't it? That's what happens when I don't post regularly...you get the remnants of my fried brain.

Do you want to know what happens when you try to work on your relationship with a farmer when they are short on help and during the busy time of planting? nothing. that's what! Back to the back burner the relationship goes....oh well. It's the life of a farmer, and I can't expect to come before that. I'll keep you informed when there is actually something to inform you on...

OH! and I almost forgot...because I don't think I'm quite busy enough yet, I have finally decided to open an etsy shop. It's not open yet, but soon....(hopefully) very soon...

Here's a sneak peek!

Dirty boys...

What happens when an almost 5 year old plays in the park for an hour, comes home only to play in the backyard for another half hour, then comes into the house BEGGING to borrow the camera to take some pictures of all the "rabbits"???






The rabbits must have run away. Instead, I found 18 self portraits of the dirtiest boy on the block!

Excuse me while I go run the bath water.

Ultimate Blog Party 2010

Wow, have I been a blogging SLACKER lately!! I have been meaning to post, really, but I just don't have time. work has been insane, my social life is picking up and it is BEAUTIFUL outside, so really, who can blame me for wanting to be out playing in the dirt instead of sitting in front of the computer?

Anyways, I am MAKING time today to do a little post, because it's the start of the Ultimate Blog Party!! Last year, I was still a pretty new blogger, and honestly the Blog Party was a little intimidating to me. But this year, here I am!! Ready to party! (That is, if working all morning and doing yardwork all afternoon sounds like a party to you. Maybe I'll watch a movie tonight, open a bottle of wine......)

Here I am......

I am a friend, a mother, a daughter, an office manager, a designer, an artist. This blog is where I let my hair down, share cute smiles of my almost 5 year old, talk about being in and out of love, and back in again......did I mention Adam is back?? well, he is. go figure... I'll do a big post on that soon, I promise...

First I gotta get back to work.

Ohh.... did I mention prizes???
Here's a few that I hope to win.
1. USC17 - $200 Apple Gift Card...provided by CmomGo

2. 39 or 40. 2 night stay at any Hilton Garden Inn...provided by

bloggin2noggin

3. 72. Your Shape for Wii....provided by KristiesList

also, in no particular order..... numbers7, 11, 20, 24, 27, 31, 34, 36, 37, 46, 47, 52, 55, 72, 84, 87, 96, 107, 112, USC3, USC8, USC25, USC32, USC35, USC36, USC37, USC39, USC40, USC44, USC63...pretty much anything that says "giftcards" especially to target or amazon and I'm in!!!

My favorite book (Day 4)

My favorite book.

Not so easy. I love to read. I read everyday. You would think it would be easy for me to just shout out my all time faves. But it's really not. I get lost in all books, as long as they are written well. And they all stay with me, in some way.

I can name off my favorites authors (right now, anyways. This changes often, too.) I can read anything by Alice Sebolt, Nicholas Sparks, Jodi Picoult, or Emily Giffin and be lost for days. But I can't really name just ONE book that I will call my all time can't live without favorite.

But - there is Harry Potter. The whole series. Pretty much perfection. How fun would it be to live in those books? I'll be Hermione.

Anyone else agree?