Weekend

Here's a recap of our weekend. Friday we went to the local carnival. Fun, but seriously expensive. Ace Young performed because Smashmouth was "sick". The kids had a really good time. Ryan did too....his friend Mike (and his girlfriend Amy) met up with us. It was nice to see him, it's probably been 3 years since we've seen them. Zachary was a wild one.....wish I took more pics....he was on a sugar high from the cotton candy. Austin ran into his good buddy Vince so they went with his dad and rode some rides for a while.

Saturday.....all the boys got a haircut.....love it when their all cleaned up! Austin went to Mark's and went to another carnival...he was excited. We pretty much laid around and then went grocery shopping for some Carne Asada for dinner and a movie. Saw De Ja Vu......lame.

Sunday....I worked. Ryan & Zach went to Sam's with his mom. When I got home it was just us for a very short while. Zachary wanted to stay at "Bah-Bah's". Austin came home...then Zachary around 7:30 with Diego. Yep, we are the new owners of a blue betta fish. Ugh. I'm not thrilled, but he's super excited. She's a total push over, she buys him whatever he wants so we have really random stuff sometimes. Then after the kids went to bed we watched Freedom Writers. This is a MUST SEE! So inspirational and it's a true story which makes it even better.

Have a great Monday.....

June 1st!

Can you believe it's already June??? Where has the time gone? Nothing exciting to report....but we are going to this www.summerfestbrea.org tonight and it should be a lot of fun! Try to go if you can, it'll be worth it.

Been a busy girl

Forgive me for not blogging sooner.....last week I jammed my finger real good and haven't really been able to type. It's starting to feel better today.....that was until Karen my nail lady squeezed it! Ouch!!!

• Our weekend....we saw Shrek 3 & Pirates. Eh...they were ok. It was nice to go to the movies.
• Worked Sat & Mon.
• Scrapped Friday night....sort of......that was the day of the injury. (should have taken pics to share with those of you that haven't seen it. UGLY!)
• I've been working out on a regular basis and that feels great! My clothes were getting tight, but now everything is back to "normal". Trying to get that flat tummy for August when we rent a beach house.
• Zachary is totally potty trained! I thought this was a day that never would come.
• Austin had Open House last night. I don't like these kinds of things....so I was happy to be out of there in a matter of 30 minutes.
• I'm going to CHA.....really excited!

Well, I'll update better tomorrow.......

The last day.....

I'm sad the school year is over for Zachary. He loves his time there. But he can't wait til the fall when he is in the "Bee" class. Here's what I made for his two teachers.

Really easy and quick....they can use the giftcard spot to put a picture once they take it out.

So now that he's out of school, I won't be working on Wednesdays any more for a while.
This morning Karen talked to me about Summer CHA! Ooooooooh........I hope it works out. Ryan said to go, thank god it falls over a weekend. I've never been to Chicago, though I probably won't see any of it since I'd only be there two days, maybe 3. Cross your fingers I can go!

Watched this....

last night. {side note...does anyone remember "In Living Color"? David Alan Grier and Damon Wayans did this skit where they were two gay movie reviewers? They would say "Hated It!" or two snaps up.}

HATED IT! What in the world? How did this get so much praise??? Jennifer Hudson was good, she has an amazing presence, but Beyonce, Jamie & Eddie all annoyed me. I didn't even really enjoy the music. Such a bummer, because I was hoping to add this to my movie collection.

I'm trying to finish up teacher gifts, can you believe tomorrow is the last day of school for Zachary? I'm sooooo sad. And he will be too once he figures it out. I'll post pics later...gotta run.

Hey You!

Madonna has a new single.....you can download it for free here...http://liveearth.msn.com/
Love it!

My Brother

Colin joined the National Reserve last year August....it took him six months to go. I think he was really nervous, which I don't blame him. From what I understand he's loving it! Colin doesn't know which direction to go with his life.....actually, he'd be really happy if my parents let him live at home forever....he doesn't understand why that isn't ok.? I'm really happy that he's doing well with the reserve and I hope it has given him some insight as to what he wants to do. This is his girlfriend Andrea. I don't really know her. She lives here and he's in Georgia until mid June when he graduates. Isn't he so handsome in his uniform? I think all my brothers are really good looking guys......I guess it helps to have a cute older sister! hee-hee.....

A very Happy Mother's Day

Happy late Mother's Day to all my friends......hope you had a great day. I sure did. We had breakfast at my mom's house and then went down to Irvine Spectrum with the kids. They rode the carousel twice, played in the water in front of Target and took a train ride. I shopped at H&M and found some really cute summer clothes! The kids got new shoes at Skechers. Zachary got these : Koolers-I like them way better than Crocs because his foot won't slip out. Austin picked out these shoes Airators. I guess they keep your feet from stinking and give a little air pump in the sole. Kind of reminds me of the old Reebok "pumps". Any ways.....it was a great day and the kids were so well behaved. I couldn't have asked for a better Mother's Day.

Keeping cool.....

I took the kids swimming today after Zachary's nap. It felt good to dip my feet in the water. Zachary wouldn't get in any deeper than his ankle's because the pool isn't heated. So no worries about getting into a bathing suit today!

So I was thinking about that "tag" about random things and I did think of a really strange one that people wouldn't know about me. I love to deep sea fish! My Grandfather used to have a 50 foot boat docked down in San Diego and we would go fishing all the time. Those are some of my best memories. He ended up buying a bigger boat, but than realized he'd have to charter it out and didn't want to do that......it was a cool boat though....65', "The Knotty Lady" hee-hee....ok off to make dinner for the kiddos!

He started today

Ryan finally starts his new position today as a manager. It's really exciting for him and he's so happy. The bummer part is that he has to change his hours back to 8:30-5:30 :( Which means he'll be home so late. He works out at work, they have a super fancy gym there, so he's gone before anyone is awake. And now he's playing softball on Wednesday nights. Ugh......we'll see how things go over the next couple of weeks. We might have to change some things around.

Annie & Joann always do a "grateful" list at the end of their daily blog which is so sweet. Today I thought I'd do a little rant...... enjoy!

1. Can it get ANY HOTTER? Ugh......I didn't turn the AC on yesterday, but today I had too.

2. Can gas be any more expensive? Hello......$73 to fill my tank up last week....makes me not want to leave my house.

So maybe I only have two things :) But I am grateful for naps......

Funny things Zachary has said over the last couple of days....."pissed out" instead of "pooped out" and instead of "goodbye" he said "peace out" to his brother this morning when we dropped him off at school. Man I love this age. Peace out.......

Happy late NSD!

What a day yesterday! I had the best time with my friends scrapbooking all day long! I'm still so inspired that I'm setting up shop right now to scrap the rest of the day. Ryan left around 1pm for L.A. and he'll be home tomorrow night. He has some presentation/training thing he's putting on......and then Tuesday he starts his new job....exciting! Any ways.....with him gone (and Austin at his dad's) I thought what the heck? Might as well scrap some more....I don't have to cook dinner, we're going to my mom & dad's and tomorrow both the kids will be in school....oh my! It's like my own National Scrapbook Days! Have a great Sunday....can't wait to watch Desperate Housewives and Soprano's tonight while scrapping!

7 Random things about me.......

Annie tagged me....and let me tell you, this is SO hard for me! Well, maybe not.....let me give this a crack

1. I am allergic to chocolate. Yep.....gives me headaches, stomaches, and bad dreams. Though I absolutely love chocolate and don't usually go a day w/o eating it.

2. I am extremely self conscious. I would give anything to have better hair, bigger hands and be taller.

3. After my divorce I met a guy and dated him for a few weeks. About 6 months later I found out he was going to Federal Prison for robbing a few banks!

4. I cannot stand it when things aren't organized....

5. I own 19 pairs of jeans...some are capri's, but they're all denim. My husband said I am not allowed to buy any more....I can't help it! Also, a white shirt of any kind is a staple in my wardrobe. I own way more than 19 white shirts/short/long/tank.....I won't even tell you how many. I have a white sickness.

6. I check everybodies feet out.....I have a foot thing.......I believe if you wear open toe shoes your feet should always look presentable. If the polish is coming off, take it off....plain is better.

7. I love open toe shoes. Unless I'm working, I'm usually in some sort of sandal, flip flip thingy.....again...... I won't go there with how many shoes I own.

I'm sure there are more things.....thanks Annie! That was fun. Now I'm tagging Debby, Jennifer, Christine and Illyse.

Lov'in my new hair!

I was a nervous wreck this morning.....I'm such a freak about my hair and going to a new hairdresser made my stomach hurt so bad! I am a very picky client. My hair sets my mood and the blonder it is, the happier I tend to be! So Holly is adorable...teeny tiny little thing. When we spoke on the phone I told her I chopped all my hair and now it's short and want to go back to longer. She agreed....she told me I'd look "sexier" with it longer. ;) Now the color is different....kind of darker, but a lot of that "golden" color is gone. When it would be around week 7 it became brassy and it would drive me nuts, I think she took a lot of that color out. Next time (which I'm so going in 6 weeks) she'll put more blonde in just in time for summer. So here's what it looks like.....and let me tell you.....she is fair at what she charges! So worth it!

Design Team Call.....

Just wanted to share for those that might be interested.
http://www.theredbeeblog.blogspot.com/

Holy smokes!

It's been a week since I last blogged! What has transpired? I worked Wednesday, took Zach to Disneyland on Thursday. (Speaking of Disneyland, I know there are some of you with passes, if you decide to go last minute, email me or call me, I'd love to meet up with anybody. We tend to go just for a few short hours because I have to get home and get Austin)....which I was dying because I over dressed the two of us....oh and Friday Mr. Zachary came down with a throat infection and was terribly sick Thursday night until Saturday. Little sleep was had. Took my car in....finally got my side mirror fixed! That little incident cost me $108!!! I will definitely be more careful not to try and squeeze by again! Birthday party Saturday....oh I worked Friday night and Sunday.....celebrated my Mom's Birthday at our house last night and today I went to the gym at 8:30 and then to park day. Whew! Busy.....Tomorrow I have a hair appt with my mom's hairdresser....I'm a little scared because I've never been to her, but my girl is just becoming a hassle to try to get in and see. Plus she's really expensive and we could manage to save a few bucks this month. I've decided I'm not a short hair person. I came this close to buying extension pieces, but Ryan really hated the idea and it's pretty pricey. So on the journey to growing long hair again.

I'm SOOOO super excited that National Scrapbook Day is Saturday! I sooooo miss scrapping once or twice a week. Well, since I haven't posted many pics lately I thought I'd share some.

Changed the video

I get tired of the same song and if you are Nip/Tuck fan you'll notice this is another song from the show. October seems so far away before the new season starts. :(

I've been great at my workouts...I feel so much better and I have a lot more energy too. Gotta get this tummy flat for that beach house this summer!

My weekend was a scrap-a-thon in a sense...worked very late Friday night....scrapped Saturday night w/Christine and then worked again Sunday and did a make & take at the store. Just a heads up......we're (The Red Bee) is going to be giving away a page kit this Friday night. I did the sample and have "kitted" the whole thing here at home. Karen (owner) is supposed to be sending out an email with the sample, hope you like it! Well, I think I might try to sneak a little scrapbooking time right now with Zachary snoozing......

Rainy Friday

I love that it has been raining all day today. Even more so, I love the comment Austin said in the car just a little while ago. Apparently he loves the rain because smokers can't smoke because the rain will put out the cigarette. He is so anti-smoking. Which is a really good thing. Ryan used to smoke....sometimes I think he sneeks one every now and again. The last time he was seriously smoking was when Zachary was born. The stress of my delivery freaked him out. Let me just say, I got to the hospital at 9pm and was a "zero" and 30 minutes later I was a "5". It was Valentine's night and everybody was out. Zach kept holding his breath and I almost had an emergency c-section.....but I delivered him 2 hours later. I think that would make me smoke too!

I've been a bad blogger the last week....between being busy and Zachary getting sick, I haven't felt up to it. Zachary has bronchitis again. I've started a new work-out routine....which has made me sore and cranky. I got my teeth cleaned Tuesday and she did this water treatment cleaning. My teeth never hurt so much! I've been lacking in the sleep department with Zachary coughing which equals more crankiness. I'm miss scrapbooking which is also making me cranky. I feel bad but I'm going away all day tomorrow to scrapbook. Austin goes to his dad's tonight....I work tonight & Sunday. That's our weekend in a nutshell.

I rented two movies today....A Good Year with Russell Crowe and the Pursuit of Happyness. I fell asleep during the Russell Crowe movie. It's really boring. Well, off to surf the net before I leave for work....have a great & dry weekend!!!!

Not much going on.....

Just regular busy day to day stuff.

My poor DH is crawling the walls though. His company offered this new job to him, but because it was review and raise time, his (money) offer got thrown on the back burnner until that was done. Well today he found out that the lady handling it in HR left for Korea for a week! He is so mad! So he can't start until they have an "official title and salary" for him. So frustrating.

Have a great Tuesday!

Back home

So happy to be home! I'm tired and had a good time....I'll post some pics later.

Is anybody going to the Autism Crop Saturday at the Red Bee? I'll be there and can't wait to get some scrapbooking done! In fact, I might finally start working on my NYC pictures! We were talking about going again next year and trying to get some ideas about when to go again and where to stay. My brother is there right now, he spent the week with my sister. He's SO lucky to have gone! So all the talk about NY got me wanting to start my album. I also bought "Chicago" and watched it yesterday. I saw the Broadway musical "Chicago" in NY and that got me buzzing.....well enough about NYC.

My friend Laura had her baby yesterday! Owen James....8lbs 1 oz and 20 inches long.....can't wait to see him! Congrats Laura, Larry and Amanda!

Happy Easter! **small edit**

I'm soooo happy it's Spring Break! I work tonight until midnight and then we're off to my Grandma's house in Palm Desert tomorrow. Good-bye gloomy weather! It's about 85-90 there.....I guess I can start that summer tan! My aunt is coming with 3 of her kids also. I *love* when we're all together hanging out! We'll probably swim a ton, see lots of movies, BBQ, go to Cabazon and play games. We have the best time when we go. I'll have lots of pictures to share......today is my Grandma's Birthday....she's 75 and beautful! She looks great and I hope to age gracefully like her. Happy Birthday!!!!

Oasis posted that they have these new cutie bags which I was salavating over at CHA......I will pass up on this beauty, but it's killing me becasue it's pink and I love it! Isn't it gorgeous?

Have a great Spring Break everyone and I'll post more when I get back......

***guess who has these bags??? Red Bee! I just about died when I went into work tonight. We sold 3 tonight and I'm sure they'll be gone soon! I did pass on this as my spring break starts now and I need some spending money.....hopefully it'll be there for me when I get back.***

Introducing.......

A.Z. I saw something similar on Elsie's blog and thought this is the cutest thing! It was supposed to be for an Easter Basket, but it's hard to hand sew something and the kids not ask what I'm doing. I'm making another one. The boys can figure out who gets what. It's SUPER easy.......I think this is my new hobby! I'm making a few to give as presents on Easter. I'll post more when I'm done.....my bunnies will be multiplying soon!

I watched TWO movies yesterday! The first one I watched while Zach napped. "Shut up & Sing". It follows the Dixie Chicks for the last 3 years from the time when Natalie Maines made the comment that she was "embarassed that the President is from Texas",, through their "On Top of the World Tour", making their new album, and then starting their new tour last summer. Which I felt like I was right there because I went to both concerts and there were A LOT of protesters back in 2003. Very emotional for me because I'm such a huge fan!

The second is the Holiday. SO GOOD! Such a chick flick! Watched it last night so I totally missed the Bachelor and Dancing with the Stars. Rent it.....it's so worth it!

By the way.....is anybody cropping tomorrow night? I would love to meet up with any of you that might be out cropping. Next week Ryan will be in Detroit again, so I'll be having scrapbooking withdrawls because my kids will also be on Spring Break. :)

New Layouts to share

I scrapped yesterday :) I'm sure I could've gotten more done....but I chit chatted with Donna & Jennifer A LOT! Here's the goods;

I got this in the mail today. Basic Grey magnets. One of mine broke! Be careful....these things are super strong and I think them pulling together so much, busted a slice off of one. Nice of them to send me 10 for 1 broken one!

And......a little retail therapy. Let's just say somebody said something that triggered an arguement last night. Still mad this morning so I took it out at the first store that opened by 9am and bought some new summer shoes! Mmmmm.....love me some shoes! Then came home and cleaned like a maniac. There are two things I do when I'm really upset.....SHOP and clean. and I mean super deep cleaning. I feel better now and my new polished sparkly pedicure will look pretty in these tomorrow at the park!

I'm taking this class.....

I'm really excited!!! I think once I've learned this technique I'll be making all kinds of cute shirts for the summer!

Ryan "unofficially" got the promotion at work that we've been wanting! We are so thrilled. Next week they (KIA) draw up the paperwork with the offer and his start date. He's excited but nervous....his first manager position and we believe it's a "National" position. He's going up to the 3rd floor with all the executives......ooh la la....fancy!

I work today, so if you're in the area stop by and say "hi". Tomorrow I'm scrapbooking all day....I cannot wait! Have a great weekend, it looks like a beautiful one!

I have a wretched headache

Is that a word? And did I spell it right? My brain feels like it's going to pop out of my head. I did take a nap already and this is how I feel waking up. A little shakey too. We're seeing Monsters Inc on ice tonight and I cannot feel this way. Yuck. I'm so glad tomorrow is Friday....a day to just hang out....me & Zach. Gotta run, somebody needs a snack.

Back to normal......

Can I just say that I love Monday mornings when the kids are gone at school and I'm all by myself. The last 7 days have been crazy! Ryan came home late Friday night, we were at Disneyland late that day.....Saturday I worked then came home and started packing up for the garage sale and watched the "Departed". (so good, gotta rent it!) And then Sunday I was back at work, but selling my stuff. Long week! So today the kids are gone and I'm dressed by 9am and ready for the day. I went to Starbucks and then right next door is Bath & Body Works. Bought some goodies. I love their antibacterial soaps, so I restocked. They are coming out with like 7 or 9 new scents for the summer! They have samples that are 4 for $10 right now.....and they aren't that small.....4oz! I got, Melon Cooler, Frozen Daiquiri, Alluring Apple & Perfect Peach! I think there was an Orange scent, Banana Strawberry, Iced Tea (weird?), HoneyBun (double weird!) and Peacan? What's cool is that they are a 3-in-1....Bodywash, Shampoo & Bubble Bath! Cool, huh? Well, Zach is asleep so I'm off to scrap a little!

Pirate Trailer

You have to check it out! My friend posted it on her blog....unfortunately I can't get it to work on mine. Check out my "favorite blogs" and click on Jenn.....it's SOOO worth watching! Thanks Jenn!!!

Merry Christmas

Ok, not really, but it always seems like Christmas this time of year for scrapbookers.....all the new product coming out from the winter trade show. Ooops! I did it again.....spent waaaay over my budget this week. I was naughty and went into a store I've so loyally boycotted for 8 months! I had my peeps looking out for the owners....don't want them to know I was there. They got a paper line that I had to have. I just HAD to HAVE it! Then I slipped into Oasis first thing this morning before some scheduled appts. Damn that place! Why must they carry such awesome stuff? My addict comes out when walking through the doors....I become giddy and excited all flustered...needing to survey the store with my eyes super fast and then off I go to hit all the new stuff. And if that wasn't bad enough, guess who shows up while I'm paying??? Can you guess??? THE UPS MAN!!! I'm torn....do I leave? What did they get? I just spent a fortune and have no business spending any more. Should I wait? I could wait. I'll wait for a few minutes....................but if it's the same stuff we're getting at my store then I get a discount........ok.......LEAVE before you're late! Which is what I did. So here is what I got my hands on this morning. Isn't it pretty? For those of you that know me well, know that I *heart* Doodlebug Rubons...I did not know they were coming out with stamps! I almost fainted......and that was at the price! Aren't those Prima birds the cutest? Illyse....I'm sorry, I got the last one. How cute are the swirls? And the Bazzil half sheets.......it's a sickness I tell you. I touched the Nisa Finn stamps and resisted.

I also wanted to share some layouts I did over the weekend. Enjoy! Now to go play with my stuff.

Busy busy...

Glad it's winding down tonight. Ryan left at 4:30 this morning....Zach crawled into bed with me at 6am....finally got up at 6:45 to get Austin & Zach ready for school and me for work. I'm tired tonight. I'm thinking I might watch Dancing with the Stars tonight. I've never watched before. So I have to share that I DID go see Premonition. Ugh....what a let down. It was fair. After the movie we went to my new favorite place to eat! Havana Mania!!! Love it there. Had a Razberry Mojito too. I scrapped yesterday with my "other" moms group. :) I'm so sad to say that Placentia Linda Hospital will be doing major renovations and we can't meet there any more. I'm going to miss the Sunday group. (unless we can find a new place) Such a funny bunch of ladies. Well, gotta run and get the kids ready for bed.

Did you see him yesterday???

He was on Ellen promoting his new movie Premonition. Can't wait to see it!

Today Austin is home from school....teacher prep day. Sure does seem like Brea has an awful lot of days off! Today is also a cleaning day. Seeing as my weekends fly by I don't get much cleaning done all at once. I work tonight and then not again til Monday. Tomorrow I have a baby shower to go to for my friend Laura (not Bloom) and *hopefully* Ryan & I can go see this cutie tomorrow night! Sunday I'm scrapbooking ALL day! Can't wait, it's been weeks since I've gone to a crop. Monday Ryan leaves for Detroit for five days.

I've seen something on my friends Annie & Joann's blog I'm going to do today.......something I'm thankful for. I love that they do that. Today I'm thankful for..........A WHOLE NIGHTS SLEEP! The last couple of nights Zach has woke up at least twice. Night before last I was woken up 4 times! So I am totally THANKFUL for a full nights rest! Have a great Friday :)

The best day.....

was yesterday. Some how I managed to get my husband to agree to a day of shopping! *sigh* He needed new workout shoes & work shoes....I just wanted to go to Paper Source. I said we could head towards Costa Mesa and have lunch in Crystal Court, then head over to Nordstrom Rack. He liked that idea. We went to Kohl's first, then lunch at Chili's---by the way, the Caribbean Chicken Salad is awesome and totally low cal! Drove down to Crystal Court, hit Paper Source, the carousel & See's Candy for a snack. Then off to the Rack. Holy Smokes that one is waaaaaay better than the Brea one! I found these beauties........Coach sunglasse for $49.97! I about croaked! I got a pair about 1 1/2 years ago and paid $165. (gift cards/birthday money) They're a plum color and I wasn't really sure, but Ryan said he really liked them! After about 2 hours in the Rack we went into Marshall's. JEALOUS! Ours is gone and this one is soooo nice! I have never ever seen so many Roxy Shirts. Unfortuantely I'm built like a truck driver and can't fit into them. :( So after Marshall's I pleaded to go into Old Navy.....offered a Starbucks treat.....agreed! Well, that was when melt down city for Zach hit. Didn't get to look but for a minute. Ahhh....what a fun shopping day with my hubby! I knew there was a reason I loved him.

Friday

What a relaxing day at home we had. It started off by going to the gym first thing (8:30), then running to Michaels to get more finger paints and then back home. Today was definitely craft day in our house! Zach finger painted and played with his play-doh while I scrapbooked. I think this time around I've become more relaxed about the play-doh mess and realize it keeps him busy for about an hour. I managed to do 1 quick LO and finish up another. In between all of this, Zachary kept wanting to fix his hair like daddy. He had lots of gel in it and water and wouldn't let me help. After about the third trip to the bathroom, he wanted a Mohawk like Tony Hawk. ???? Now I know he hears the name Tony Hawk because of big brother, but to actually know that this man has a Mohawk and it's cool? Wow! Here he is in all his glory.



I work tonight....so if you come in say hello. Austin is off to his Dad's house for the weekend. Tomorrow I want to go to Paper Source and to lunch with Ryan. Maybe do a little Spring shopping. As I am in that mode! Have a great weekend!






That orange thing on top of my lo's is a clip I use on the fridge...just in case you're wondering.

It just gets worse......

Why can't I contain myself from buying stuff when it's new? Why can't I just look the other way and say, "no thank you, I really don't need that." So I drove to Oasis last night and mind you, Oasis is like 23 miles from my house. Not a quick little trip. So I drive there and walk out with 4 Heidi Swapp stamps, 1 7 gypsies stamp, Anna Griffin, SEI & A2Z paper. (which I'm sooooo dying to do this layout of my sister with the butterfly paper!) My husband asks what did I buy? Oh nothing I say......as he looking through my bag! ....so he asks why my name is on the bag and he can't seem to understand? I said I put it all on hold and this is the ONLY time I could go. Not true, I could've gone within 3 days, but the insane need it now demon had to go last night. You'd think the maddness stops there.....nah.....who am I kidding? I think I'll go to Kohl's and go buy some clothes. By the way....cute t-shirts that look very "scrapbooking" inspired. Maybe there is a different reason why I didn't work? Maybe it really is because I spend too much and it's not to be a stay at home mom. The kids are a cover-up.....no job, no money, no spending....hmmmm......could it be?

This is why I work.....

Because I can't control my scrapbooking shopping problem!This is what I've bought in the last week.....most of it was purchased within the last 24 hours! By the way.....Joann's is having an amazing crafting sale! So, I *love* KI stuff and they came out with 2 new kits, a Spring one and a "Pieces of me" one. Couldn't pass them up at $11.99. I've been so inspired to scrap more now that my schedule has become kind of hectic. I'm really trying to cram it in whenever I can.

Speaking of hectic.......I feel so overwhelmed. I knew it was hard working and being a single mom, but trying to juggle two kids, work, pre-school, karate lessons, MOMS group functions and whatever else comes along is really taking it's toll. I'm tired all the time.....my weight & exercise is not where it should be and I'm really bothered by that. Ever since the kids got bronchitis back in January I've slid off my program and just haven't been able to figure out a new one with all the new activities. When Zach naps, I want too.....or I want to scrap. Or I clean. Or I'm online. Too much to think about. I'm also torn because I cook meals almost every night for my family. I feel bad when they have microwave food or pre-made throw it in the oven dinners. I really strive to make at least 4 meals a week. I could just ditch that and go exercise :) What to do ? On the up side I've had some really random flattering comments made. Last week a girl at the frozen yogurt shop asked me if I had a school ID for a discount! And today a man (and a cute construction one at that!) was flirting with me. Small chit-chat.......I felt very flattered but also uncomfortable. Well, I'm totally rambling and need to go find a new 80's song!

Layouts

Here are a couple I did over the weekend and yesterday. I have one more, but I need to finish sanding the letters....check back later for that one. :)

Feeling the 80's

I have a huge collection of 80's music on my Mp3 player so I thought I'd change things up with my music video for the next couple of weeks!

Sunday

I worked today and I do have to say I am really enjoying my job. It almost doesn't seem fair that they are paying me to do something I love! I got to place a small order for a few things they don't carry and I'd like to see more of......flowers. (any requests shout it out, love to hear some feedback!) I have tomorrow off and I'm planning to make a meatloaf for dinner so I'll shop for the ingredients after I drop the kids at school and then I'll have about 3 1/2 hours to scrap in peace. Really looking forward to it. I picked up the new Basic Grey Magnetic Mat today. Seeing as I have to move my stuff because of small hands I thought this would be great to have.

By the way....I'm missing the Academy Awards :( Austin has to do a brochure on Puffins. He was at his dad's all weekend and we're just doing it now. Nothing like getting an assignment on Friday.

Day two......

Oh man, it must of been 1st day beginners luck. Within 1 hour Zachary had FOUR accidents this morning! My patience was low because I was totally sleep deprived and we had a party to go to so I slapped a diaper on him and we left. Tonight when we got home he went a few more times and then to bed. Speaking of sleep deprived......working Friday nights is kicking my butt! I love it, but I can't fall asleep when I get home and then have a hard time sleeping in. Any suggestions?

I bought a few goodies today, I think I'm in that spending mode for scrapbooking stuff. I also did TWO layouts tonight! I'll post them later. Simple and fast! Have a great Sunday and enjoy watching the Academy Awards.

Potty training!

It's official! And a day I never thought would come. Zach woke up and decided today was the day that he's gonna go in the toliet! As of now, he's gone 4 times. (Even once at Target!) I am SUPER HAPPY that he has finally taken interest. Those of you that know of his probelm, this is earlier than his specialist said he'd try. Yeah Zach!

*****NEWS FLASH*******
My dear friend Jenn is blogging again! Woo-hoo! Thanks Erika for the update. I just about gave up on ya Jenn. ;)

Looky looky.....

what came in the mail today!!! Yeah Junkitz! This is some of the stuff I ordered from them. I was paid in product for working CHA....how awesome is that? I'm soooo excited to play with some of the new stuff I got. Can't wait for the rest to arrive! Thanks Stacey again for giving me the opportunity to work for you, you're the best!

It's been another week

And I'm slacking with the posts. So sorry. Let's see.....since Zachary's birthday what have we been up to? Friday Zach & I went to Disneyland for a few hours. Man....it was HOT! I worked that night too. I'm going to wear a pediometor next time. I walked soooo much! Moving stuff, setting up new displays, helping customers. It really doesn't seem like work to me. Strange. The hardest part was staying until 12:30. I think this Friday I'll leave earlier.

Saturday I cropped later in the day with some friends at Oasis. Gotta love that! I was so overly tired & punchie, but managed to do 5 layouts!

Sunday was Zach's party. Talk about a weather change! It went from blazing hot the day before to cool and crisp. I dressed wrong and at the end of the day I was freezing! Also I had to hand my camera over and have friends take pictures for me. I wish I would have gotten a family one. Oh well. Check out the size of this Diego. Is he not the BIGGEST pinata you've ever seen! It was so funny to see the kids walk up to it and it be bigger than them. Glad the party is over.

My best friend from high school, Janelle, her husband had a heartattack on Friday. I was so shocked and taken by surprise. Fortunately he's doing fine and had a shunt put into one of his veins. He's young, 44 and I would say in really good health. My heart just ached when I found out. I need to call her again and get updated to see if he's home now. Please say a small prayer for her and her family, they have 4 kids and she's a stay at home mom.

Happy Birthday / Valentines Day!

Today is a double celebration in our house. Zachary was born just minutes before it turned Feb 15th, so we now have a dual celebration! He is 3 today. For some reason he thinks all the hoopla is for him. All the candy, all the cards, the balloons......it'll take a few years. So here's a newborn pic of my redhead....who no longer is red, but a blondie! Happy Birthday Big 3 year old!

The Chicks Rocked at the Grammys!

I had to add their video after seeing them win 5 Grammys last night! I'm thinking of going dark like Natalie. Wow, what did you think of that dark brown hair? I'm such a chicken though. Chicks Rock!!!!

Monday

It has come to my attention that I have another quirk........yes, as perfect as I am in my organizing I keep things in their "original" packaging. It wasn't until my friends made fun of me for keeping my X in the box. I just figured since it's a funny shape, it would be safer staying in the box. As do my stickers, chipboard, ribbon, or anything else that is new. I've gotten better at ditching the packaging......but keeping it in the packaging makes it easier to find admist 800 other black stickers! :)

My second day of work; I thought, "what in the world am I going to do for 6 hours?" Six hours in a scrapbooking department? How much organizing could one person do? Oh let me tell you.......A LOT! It's going to be a while, but once it's where it should be, it'll look so much better. I can already visual the finished look.

It was really hard to leave on Sunday while everyone was still in their jammies all cozy while I left in the rain. I was a little bummed. Giving up some of my freedom for another kind of independence. It is rewarding.

TAG!!! I'm it!

So Ms. Leslie Ashe tagged me, so I'm supposed to list 6 quirky/weird things about me. Which is kind of hard for me because I don't think there is ONE weird or quirky thing about me. :)

1. I drink a nice cold Chai Latte every morning. Yep, every morning. And if I'm out of mix, I go to Starbucks and buy one.

2. I organize too much.

3. I never ever wash my make-up off before going to bed. Ever. And I have amazingly great skin. Not boosting, it's just the way it is.

4. I have to go Scrapbooking at least once a week. It's my fix.....the equivalent to crack.

My friends could probably fill in 5 and 6 for me, but I honestly can't think of any others.

My First Night

It wasn't what I was really expecting. I guess when you haven't worked in over three years your expectations are somewhat different. At first I was just to walk through the department and pick-up and get to "know" the department. Not what I invisioned doing, but ok. So after a couple of hours of doing this and realizing that it really need some TLC, I was ready to reorganize. Not only reorganize, but rip down entire sections and make them make sense. They have so much stuff. Now I understand why they wanted me. I have this need to want to organize everything. I'm not a "neat-freak" but I am organized. My mother & grandmother keep everything. They have a hard time getting rid of the "old". Not hoarders, but they just can't purge. My mom still has my barbie's and some of my brother's baby toys. Sick, huh? So I don't keep much. You're not playing with it? Donate it. It's in good condition? Sell it on Ebay. I keep more meaningful things, just not everything. So I work Sunday. Kind of already on the love/hate feeling. My back really hurts from standing, because let's face it, most my time is spent sitting. However, they will have a booth at the OC Scrapbook Expo and we're going to start pulling merchandise to sell there. Which will free up more space for new product and my crazy organizing. Have a good weekend!

What a day!

I have been bombared today! I finally finished the mini book for Austin's penpal! Thank goodness that's done. Here a sneak peek of it, but you can see the whole thing here http://twopeasinabucket.kaboose.com/pg.asp?gallery=1&cmd=display&layout_id=1082380

Today I attended a funeral for my parents neighbor. It was really sad. She was only 59 and had been sick for many years and was on life support for the last 7 months. They decided she was suffering so much, so last week the family decided Linda would be better off in heaven. My neighbor, or my parents, are neighbors and have been since I was eight! I grew up with their kids, Dave & Jenny. I use to baby sit Jenny! Oh how time flies. My kids always go over to see what Jim (the dad) is up to in his garage. He buys old radios and fixes them and then resales them at flea markets. Linda was the boss....and everyone knew it. But the nicest lady and would always offer you a beverage, something to eat......I'm glad she's at peace now.

So I do have some great news......I'm really excited. I was offered a job at the Red Bee in Tustin to be their "Department Head of Scrapbooking!" Of course I'm thrilled....but scared too. I haven't worked in over three years! They said they are totally flexible with my schedule...how awesome is that? I start Friday night. I can't wait!

Well, I better run, I think Zachary may have fallen asleep. Grandma babysat today while I was gone....she doesn't enforce the nap schedule.

CHA was AMAZING!

And that was mostly due to working for Junkitz! They rocked! I absolutely love Stacey & Kenny and would work for them in a heartbeat.......except they're in New Jersey. They made you feel like you've known them forever. Sue, Debbie and Kelly were super helpful for us "newbies" working the booth. I was amazed at the three new product lines that came out, Extreme Boy, Salsa Celebration and Fanciful. I cannot wait to get my hands on some of this because it has left me totally inspired! Thanks again Stacey (aka My Twin) for a wonderful time, even though it was super busy and draining. See you next year!

Can you tell which one is me? Apparently neither could a lot of people! From the side and behind we looked very similar and people kept coming up to me call me "Stacey". It was pretty funny.

Extreme Boy----LOVIN IT!!!

Salsa Celebration--LOVE IT! Sorry it's sideways!

Thank you, thank you very much......

I love this picture of Stephanie with Elvis! She was so brave to jump in there and take a picture. First off, she's 19 and we were in Imperial Palace in Vegas. Total no, no. Secondly, I just had her finish a cocktail so we could go in. Not that she couldn't have the drink, it's just, well you get it. Then we walk into a parade of impersonaters coming out of a show. Now you can see why I thought she was so brave. Love it!

Sick Family

Let me just say my kids & husband have been soooo sick! I'm really surprised I haven't caught anything! Ryan had a horrible cold that just kicked his butt. Austin started coughing last week and it got worse over the weekend and then Zach started up. Needless to say, they have Bronchitis!!! Austin has been home the last two days trying to get better. His 9th Birthday is on Thursday and he's soooo worried that we'll have to cancel his party. I doubt it, he's been on antibotics for two days and by Thursday evening he should be much better.

Today being that he's home and not deathly ill ( no fever, just a bad cough) I went through his toys and we "tested" the old ones to see if they still work. I was so happy to dump a lot of broken remote control cars and now we're charging the three that still work. We bagged two big bags of stuffed animals and dumped a lot of broken toys. I was hoping to find a place to donate stuffed animals that are in brand new condition. Such cute ones too! So if anybody knows where children might need a new stuffed animal, please let me know. I was thinking of calling CHOC.

Onto scrapping stuff!!!! So I was just on Junkitz blog and saw the sneek peaks.....oh such cute stuff!!!! http://www.junkitz.com/designers/blogger.cfm?username=spanassidi&topten=topten I am soooo excited for CHA. Plus I'm going to a dinner with some of the girls I know on Sunday night. There will be some people there that I don't know yet (Leslie Ashe) and I'm really excited to go hang out at Buca Di Beppo's. Gotta run, hope to post more later!

Time Flies!

It's been another week since I've posted! Still hanging in there with the dieting and exercising. I walked the other night......man was it COLD!!!! There is a lot coming up that I'm super excited about. First, Austin's Birthday is on the 25th. We're having pizza and a sleep over. NO SCHOOL on the 26th!!! Then on the 27th I have my MOMS International Luncheon. Should be fun. Hanging out with the girls is always a blast. Then there is CHA!!!!! (Jan27th-31st) Woo-hoo!!! So I haven't really spilled the beans on that one. I was asked to volunteer a couple of days at the Junkitz booth. DUH! Of course!!! I'll get to hang with the very talented Teresa Collins (which I so love!) and hopefully learn some insightful things. I love CHA, it's like the Disneyland of scrapbooking. Except you can't buy anything. But you do get to see all the new stuff, and who doesn't love new stuff??? Plus you get to do make-n-takes, demo products and meet all kinds of great people in the industry. So excited I can hardly stand it.

I have lots of plans to scrapbook this weekend and desperately need to upload some layouts to share. Wait til you see the one with Stephanie & Elvis! hee-hee

Day Three

Of exercise. It's a love/hate relationship. I love the way I feel when I'm done, I just wish everything was here in my home instead of having to go to the gym. I really need to find more home (or gym) weight training. I was reading SHAPE last night from October, (I bought for my trip to NYC that somehow got lost and never read?) to help get me motivated to lose that last 10/15lbs and they had some really great key points about how to eat and think like a slim person; (I'll share the short version)
1. Figure out why you want to lose weight-do it for you & no one else
2. Consciously change the way you think about yourself-carry a journal and write down positive thoughts
3.Take Charge
4. Identify your triggers-stress
5. Stop the eat-panic-eat cycle-"Now I've blown it, I might as well..." don't diet sabotage
6. Keep an accomplishment list-little things like, I ate fruit instead of cookies, I took the stairs instead of the elevator

So easy and makes sense, just need to do it. I did feel this way when I started Jenny Craig a year and a half ago, now I'm just kind of gliding.....glad I'm not gaining. I'm really hoping to have that flat bikini tummy this summer. That was my goal for last year. I'll try again for this one!

Back on track

Today is the first day where I'm getting my working out back on track. I so desperately needed too. I already went, started light since it's been....uh, four or five weeks! I'm going to sign up for this boot camp at my gym. It doesn't start until February, so I have time to build my strength back up. I'm so hoping that taking this class will help me finally get rid of those last 10-15lbs. I've been the same weight for a year now. Which is good, but I would really love to actually be my goal weight.

The boys are back in school. I miss them, but love the peace and queit. I feel bad, I made them both wear jeans and it's HOT today. Actually it's more of a dry Santa Ana winds feeling. Yuck.

Well, I'm going to try and go scrap a little before I have to get Zachary in two hours. Have a great day!

Happy New Year!

Ok, again I'm late on the well wishes. I hope everyone had a great New Year. I scrapped with some friends on New Years Day and that was a good time. The kids are still out on vacation and return back to school on the 8th. I'm really enjoying them being home. Ryan went back to work on the 2nd to a new building. Unfortunately it's not totally done, but it is really cool. We checked it out over last weekend.

So today I did something to myself that really freaked me out. I'm in major cleaning mode-putting decorations away, still reorganizing the boys' room.....it was a pajama day needless to say. Any ways, the boys have this heavy duty Little Tykes toy box. The lid was flipped upside down on top of the chest and while I was cleaning, it slid down and whacked me right in the shin! YOWZERS!!!!!!!!! Holy @&JNA*&%$!!!! It hurt so bad....I could feel to the core of my body. I'm on the floor trying my best not to cuss, cuz there's the boys wondering what's going on with mom. Zach is offering his blanket and puppy doggie for comfort and I'm just rolling around grasping my leg. So I lift the leg of my pj's and I have this EGG sized swelling that's turing black and blue. Austin grabs an ice pack for me and I'm trying to put it on but it's just so painful. Then I start to feel queezy....so Austin gets me a glass of water. Then I really start to feel like I'm gonna puke. So I hobble into the bathroom and start dry heeving. Now I'm freaking out. Because with the nauseated feeling and the heeving, I'm now shaking and sweating and feeling clamy. I'm thinking I must have done something else? Did I break a bone??? Now I'm so hot I'm taking my shirt off and feeling like I'm going to pass out. Poor Austin is standing in the doorway keeping Zachary out. Thank God he's a strong boy. He asks me, "Mom, do I need to call an ambulance?" "No, I'm ok, just give me a minute, and keep your brother out." So I lay down and let it ride out.....about ten minutes later I hobble to my bed and I call my friend that's a nurse and she said I was fighting the pain and seeing the swelling freaked me out and I basically panicked. Let me tell you, that was the scariest thing ever! I have had panick attacks, but nothing like that. So my leg really hurts and now I have a big ole knot.

No big plans for the weekend....I bought a "pre-cooked" Turkey to make on Sunday. Ryan got a gift certificate from work before Thanksgiving for a Turkey, I'm just getting around to it. :) I'm hoping to maybe get some more cropping time in this weekend. Have a great weekend!