Sharing the Smarts

365 Days Photo Challenge: Day 14

2012-01-14T23:26:00.000-07:00

Today was a wonderful Saturday! Pedro woke me up with breakfast this morning (which was super sweet of him and yummy) and an awesome way to begin the day.

After breakfast I showered and did a hot oil treatment in my hair. I am trying to grow my hair out, and repair some of my beauty school damage. The rest of the day we spent sewing. I made a throw pillow from some fabric I had forgotten about, Pedro made a laptop case cover (from old curtain material... he didn't use a pattern or anything - the guy has knack for building things), and we made Daphnie's crate cover.

Daphnie was the most wiped of everyone. I love that little poodle.

365 Days Photo Challenge: Day 13

2012-01-13T23:09:00.000-07:00

I took my photo this morning while at work, but I was using instagram and I don't think it saved... so at the last minute, I snapped this photo... close (too close) of a call for almost not capturing a photo. I was tired and ready for bed when I took this photo... haha

365 Day Photo Challenge: Day 12

2012-01-12T23:33:00.000-07:00

I know its semi-lame to post another photo of hair, but it is important to me and this signifies another accomplishment and learning experience this week! I played the platinum card tonight... took a girl white/blonde and she LOVED it!!! It looked so good! I was so excited and pleased with the results. 

My mom texted me tonight and asked me if I really only made it 8 days into the year of my 365 photo challenge. Haha It was funny and threw me off guard, but I'm glad she's keeping me in line for my goals! She indicated it may be cheating to post the photo after the specific day, so I will be better at posting A.S.A.P! :) Pedro keeps reminding me I need to use my nice camera, not just my phone for the photos. I am hoping to take some nice ones this weekend... but the most epic photo will no doubt be next Friday!!!!!! Day 20! I can't wait to be "shutter happy" that day! My little brother comes home and I cannot wait!

On a much more somber note, Pedro's Grandma, GiGi, has been in the hospital. This evening, they found out why she has been so sick. They discovered a large tumor in her stomach and let the family know it is terminal. We are not sure how much time we have left with this sweet woman, but I thought I would post a photo in her honor:

365 Day Photo Challenge: Day 11

2012-01-11T23:17:00.001-07:00

Captured this beautiful sunset while at school tonight!

365 Day Photo Challenge: Day 10

2012-01-10T23:17:00.000-07:00

Epic day at school! Even though I have been in school for about 15 months, we rarely get perms at nights... well today I had my very first perm ever!!! We are both so happy with the results!

365 Day Photo Challenge: Day 9

2012-01-09T23:09:00.004-07:00

Today I was able to capture a better photo of the curtains that Pedro and I made last weekend, and I also snapped a photo of Daphnie. We had taken the sheets off our bed to put them in the laundry and Pedro thought it would be funny to throw my scarf on Daphnie. I couldn't resist.

Day 8/465 day Photo Challenge

2012-01-08T22:03:00.001-07:00

Pedro and I drove out to Eagle tonight to celebrate his sisters birthday. Being the end of the day, this was my snapped photo...

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Bedroom Curtains

2012-01-07T23:54:00.001-07:00

I completed my biggest task today of relaxing. What a wonderful day Pedro and I had! We worked as a great team today... I am very proud of us. I also worked hard to step up my game in my role as wife, so I vacuumed and dusted the curtains AND I threw out nasty leftover food (which I despise doing). I also wore my apron most of the day... and cooked breakfast AND dinner - which to some of you may be the norm... but I am married to a personal caterer and chef. Pedro LOVES cooking... and I love it too! Anyway, I ordered some fabric that just happened to be on sale to make some curtains. They turned out so cute! Only problem is that they don't match anything, really - but they are "my style" and I am not so worried about everything matching for now... especially since we will be moving to Rexburg later this year.

I followed this tutorial and I absolutely love them! I will need to get a better photo tomorrow... for sure. I thoroughly enjoyed the relaxing day today... yet we still got things done! We are working on a challenge of cleaning/organizing one thing every day for 2012. So far it's super easy and we have had wonderful success! You can view more information on that by clicking here.

One more thing - I get to see the greatest person EVER in 13 almost 12 days (my little big now little again brother). I am thrilled beyond measure. Happy Weekend everyone!!!

Day 6/365 Photo Challenge

2012-01-06T23:59:00.001-07:00

Date night at home (watching a tv series online- romantic, I know;) )... After a brief trip to the mall. Sometimes there's just no place like home. :) I can't wait to sleep in tomorrow, work on various crafts (seeing new curtains) and relax the day away. :)

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Day 5/365 Photo Challenge

2012-01-05T23:11:00.001-07:00

It's the end of the day, and I'm just snuggling up to my cute little pup. I had so much fun at school tonight- just did highlights on a cute girl and they turned out perfectly! Feels awesome to make other people feel good.I also finally received some fabric I ordered on sale with our Christmas money. I'll be crafting (when I'm not pinning) all weekend/Saturday. Oh Pedro also found some valuable gift cards in our home, so it looks like date night is in the future for a night out as well! Double score!

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Day 4/365 Photo Challenge

2012-01-04T22:47:00.001-07:00

Sometimes you can have your cake and eat it too. :) Celebrated my co-worker's birthday today.

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7 Good Reasons for Menu Planning

2012-01-04T22:10:00.000-07:00

In college, I took a course that covered basics of sewing, cooking, and interior design. I loved the class - not only because my best friend was in the class with me, but because it was so much fun! During the cooking section of the course, we learned some great basics of food storage, meal planning, cooking. I thought I would share some of what I learned:

1. Good nutrition saves time. When you take the time to thoughtfully plan dinner menus you're more conscious of what you and your family are eating. Menu planning can be the first step in a sound nutritional program.

2. Menu planning helps you reduce the number of trips you make to the grocery store and/or your neighbor's house. How many times, when you are throwing dinner together at the last minute, have you discovered that you don't have a certain ingredient called for in the recipe? When meals are planned in advance and a shopping list made out accordingly, there are no surprises, come mealtime.

3. Menu planning saves money. Knowing your food requirements in advance helps you cash in on coupons, advertised sales, and savings due to in-season produce. Planing provides incorporation of leftovers so unnecessary waste is eliminated. With your menus planned and their ingredients handy, you spend less money on fast foods and restaurant meals.

4. Menu plans make the most out of what time you do have available. Check your week's schedule and discover what time commitments are upcoming. On those nights when time is short plan quick or simple meals.

5. With written menu plans you're more likely to delegate some of your meal preparations responsibilities. Post the dinner menu and indicate which jobs are delegated to whom. Someone can scrub the potatoes, put the meatloaf in the oven, toss a salad, etc. If your meal plans are in your head, 100% of the work will be in your hands.

6. Menu planning makes dovetailing possible; doubling your efforts. It's starting dinner after breakfast so you'll have one cleanup instead of two. It's making three meat loaves instead of one. You're dovetailing when you make extra rice for tonight's stir-fry beef that will be used for tomorrow's rice pudding.

7. Menu planning relieves stress. Procrastination is at the heart of a stressful life (or so they say). We rush off to work or get busy around the house and put off the decision about what to fix for dinner. As the day wears on brain, the thought, "What shall I fix for dinner?" weighs more and more. Menu planning enables you to decide what to fix for dinner and eliminates facing the anxiety every day.

I can't say I am a pro -but Pedro and I do work hard to plan out our menus for the week, and we also strive hard to only make one trip to the grocery store each week. Menu planning for us makes a huge difference, and I hope to be even better with incorporating budgeting into menu planning this year.

What's For Dinner: Baked Pasta Alfredo

2012-01-03T23:16:00.000-07:00

For dinner today Pedro and I wanted to create/try a new recipe. We actually just whipped up our own sauce (truly - we took things we like from other sauces (like Olive Garden) and combined them) and what we created was a huge hit. It reminded me alot of the Alfredo from Brick Oven Bistro, in Utah. Biggest differences are the eggs, heavy cream (amount used), and cream cheese.

Baked Pasta Alfredo

1 pound pasta (Bowtie, Penne, your choice)

1½ cups milk

⅔ cups heavy cream

8 oz (one block) cream cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ cup grated Romano cheese

add basil, garlic, salt and pepper (as desired)

Cook pasta as directed, make Alfredo sauce. Strain pasta and return to pot. Add Alfredo sauce to cooked pasta and mix, put into 9x13 dish. Add cheese on top and bake at 375 for 10 minutes.

I am telling you - this photo does not do this dish justice - it was so yummy! The only thing we would do different is add some grilled chicken next time. I'd also like to point out - today is day 3, and this photo does indeed qualify for my 365 days in photos. (Just for my own piece of mind.)

365 Day Photo Challenge: Day 2

2012-01-02T19:01:00.000-07:00

Daphnie laying in front of our space heater: Classic.

365 Day Photo Challenge: Day 1

2012-01-01T23:51:00.006-07:00

I thought it would be fun to take on a photo challenge: a photo for every day of the year (besides, it is on my bucket list). 365 photos for 2012, here I come (or is it 366 with leap year?)

The family played a new game, Quelf, tonight. It is different, but super funny. I recommend it.

I took two photos, because I couldn't resist how funny my dad looked.

2012 Goals

2012-01-01T10:45:00.003-07:00

In comparison to last year's post, I must say it was a 50/50 outcome. I succeeded greatly at a couple of goals, and failed miserably at another. Which is why it is perfect to start fresh at the beginning of another new year. 

2012 Goals:

Follow the Dave Ramsey way - be better with our finances
Continue to work on our communication ("Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus...")
Have consistent date night
Live healthier lifestyles - more gym time :)
Complete Beauty School
Begin our journey to finish school and get our degrees.
Be BETTER.

Last year I posted my bucket list, and this year (listed in green) are the items I have now added to the list.  

My Bucket List

Go Skydiving
Road-trip across the United States with the Brookes (that in & of itself has it's own bucket list!)
Travel to each continent (except Antarctica... I'd rather not be freezing, thanks!)
Learn to speak fluent French & Spanish
Serve an 18 month long service mission helping orphans... in any country.
Return to Ecuador for a service vacation.
Live in New York City
Travel to London, Seattle, Nashville, and Tokyo.
See a Ballet in NYC - one of George Balanchine's would be wonderful
Travel to Italy - ride in a gondola in Venice.
Write a children's book
Create a Library - I'd be happy if all I ever received for every birthday or holiday I received a book. Reading creates a fountain of knowledge (I believe)
Paint the landscape of every area where a major event has taken place in my life. (i.e. - my birth, baptism, wedding, first kiss, etc.)
Live my life with no regrets
Be a lifelong learner and student
Graduate with my Bachelor's degree in something I am passionate about.
Catch fireflies from the Midwest
Dance in the rain with my love
Become a Mother
Take a midnight stroll in Paris
Have 365 consecutive Days of Photos
Own a Polaroid Camera
Become a fabulous photographer
Become my own culinary chef (many more recipes to come!)
Name a star
Stand on the Equator

As a total side note, for 2012, I plan on kicking butt and taking names. :) Seriously though, I feel so good about 2012!

2011 Recap and 2012 Goals

2011-12-31T20:15:00.003-07:00

2011 in Review

January: Spent New Years in Boise. Pedro began the hunt for a new job.

February: I traveled to Las Vegas for Caper, an educational event. Pedro signed a contract to work over the summer with ViVint, and began traveling to Utah for training. We signed up Daphnie for doggy training.

March: Pedro continued training sessions in Utah for ViVint. Daphnie graduated from her dog training at the end of the month.

April: Celebrated Easter. Pedro left at the end of the month to work in Iowa for ViVint.

May: Pedro moved to Midland, Texas with ViVint. I traveled to New York City for the first time ever for hands-on training with my mentor, Vivienne Mackinder.

June: Brookie and Jaydaka came to town and we went shopping and enjoyed a girls weekend. Celebrated my birthday with my wonderful family, we experienced ZipIdaho which was amazing and so much fun!

July: .... we don't remember much. :)

August: I took my little brother Devyn's Senior Pictures. I flew to Denver to visit Berk and Cam, and Pedro drove up from Texas at the end of the month to pick me up. We drove home together from Denver.

September: I had a small get-together for both sides of our families to celebrate Pedro's birthday from August and his arrival back home. We traveled to Twin Falls to celebrate my Grandpa Cook's birthday with lots of extended family. I participated in the Women's Fitness 5k Challenge - it was a blast and I am hoping to improve my time next year.

October: We actually celebrated Halloween for the first time in a couple of years. We dressed up and gave out Smarties.

November: Pedro and I made the decision to go back to school in Rexburg, Idaho for Fall 2012. Pedro accepted a job doing snow removal (except we haven't had any snow...yet!). Pedro also renewed his contract with ViVint for next Summer. Daphnie had her teeth cleaned professionally for the first time. Her little under-bite is so sparkly now!

December: Had our family photos taken. We both finalized our applications for BYU-Idaho, applied for housing, and made a reservation deposit for next fall.

There you have it! 2011 was a growing year, that brought challenges and blessings. I will be honest - I am happy to be done with the year and ready to start a new year. I am so excited for what I think is in store for 2012.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

Lately I pin better than I blog, so here's this past Christmas (which was wonderful) Tumblr style!

Oh Christmas Tree!!!!

We had Daphnie's Teeth cleaned as part of her Christmas!

Amazing blanket my older brother had made for my parents

Yummy chocolate cookies with peppermint kisses we delivered to friends!

Homemade Cinnamon rolls that we ate while drinking Hot Cocoa and watching the Polar Express!

We refinished our kitchen table for our Christmas present! I couldn't be more thrilled with the results! I LOVE it!

Kitchen Table Refinish

2011-12-22T07:06:00.012-07:00

For Christmas this year, Pedro and I were on a budget (who isn't these days?)... so we decided our family gift should be something cost efficient, but valuable to us. We decided to re-do our kitchen table. Before it was a country farm-style table - cute, but not quite "my style". We were able to borrow leftovers of a customized stain that my dad had for the wood, and then we purchased black spray paint for the chair/table legs. All in all, we saved alot of money, and have a beautiful brand new table!

Step 1: Sanded all of the wood down


Step 2: Sprayed liquid sand paper on chair backs and legs


Spray painted Liquid Black on the legs and back of table and chairs

Then we stained the wood, let it dry.....

And Wah-lah:

Family Photos

2011-12-07T15:10:00.004-07:00

We had some family photos taken last weekend as our Christmas gift to the family (per my MIL's request) and I think they turned out great. I am a little self-conscious, but all that aside, we had a great experience with Mandie. You should definitely check her out! :)She was super quick (which was fantastic because it was a little chilly... but beautiful weather none-the-less) and was awesome with the little one, Jamie.

 This last one is my favorite... I think I got a totally different memo, but that's okay! 

I'm Alive!

2011-12-06T23:01:00.003-07:00

I haven't updated on my blog in over a month... Yikes! Well, I promised Pedro (and myself) I would blog, but I think I must have writer's block: I don't know what to write about - at all. If I recall Blanca and I wanted to do a blogging challenge for the month of December... We also "did" one for November, though I clearly and obviously failed miserably at it. I suppose for now I can just do a quick update: 

Pedro- I am so thrilled to say Pedro is finally getting his study on again. Of course this is something I have been wanting for a while, and the time has finally arrived where everything is falling into place. He just needs to interview for his Endorsement for school and his application will be complete for BYU-I! He and I will be moving next fall to begin/continue our education. He will be taking independent study courses from BYU in the meantime. Pedro also got a job this last week! He will be doing snow removal at Micron, which means he will always be on-call through March but we are so grateful for a job. For even 1/2 inch of snow it can be at least 6-8 hours worth of work! So help us pray for snow. :) Pedro also signed a contract to go work with ViVint again next summer, so he will be moving again (to who knows where) in April and I will stay in Idaho and finish up my cosmetology program. We are secretly hoping we can talk my little brother (who comes home next month) into working with Pete and ViVint next summer to earn those college bucks. 

Me (Stayc)- I'm (still) in school but loving it. I am hoping and planning to graduate next August. I recently was accepted into the Phase 2 program at school and am so proud of myself for working hard to get there. I am currently striving for the Honors Program and the Deans list as well, but it is a lot of work. :) Upon graduation I hope to find a salon in Rexburg or IF that I can assist or apprentice while attending BYU-I. I am so excited that I think I have finally nabbed my major: Graphic Design. I feel it is right up my alley- I would love to learn more about marketing, business, and photography as well. I am so excited to keep on continuing my education. I just love learning! Because Pedro and I are saving money for us to both go to school next fall we are budgeting and cutting costs as much as possible, but I so grateful and blessed! Work continues to go well and I  so excited to soon be working again with a dear friend of mine, Meghan! She will be our new hygienist and I absolutely love her! It is so weird to think that I will not be at the office in a year- I have really grown to love my job and the people I work with, but I feel so good about the future, I know it will be a great opportunity for someone else. I also have had a little bit of a fever lately (yes, THE fever) haha but I am doing well. :) I understand everyone does things differently, but I would love any input or advice from my friends that are young mothers - those of you that continued going to school or working with young children at home. Truth be told: I feel so torn... Right down the middle. Of course, if my mother (and dad, and sibs) were willing to move to Rexburg with me it wouldn't be such an problem. You see? I have issues. :) I love my family mucho- to say I am attached would be the understatement of the year. I better clarify... I'm don't have "the flu" (yet)...but I want to..... :) 

Baby Dee- has been extra clingy to Pedro lately (only when I'm not around) and is doing as Princess-y as ever. She is my little bundle of joy! Haha. Seriously though. We had to take her in to have her teeth cleaned and afterwards she was still pretty drugged... Haha Pedro snapped A photo and just whoah... Hahaha. 

We also had family photos taken recently with Pedro's side of the family (our Christmas gift to them) so I need to post those this week. I think that's all I have for now.... 

Feliz Navidad (I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas from the bottom of my heart!) 

Day 2

2011-11-03T00:39:00.001-06:00

I am grateful for a warm bed to sleep in tonight and a roof over my head. Sometimes I forget how lucky I am to have just those two things! The weather is turning bitter cold and I can't imagine not being able to sleep in my own bed at night.

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Day 1

2011-11-01T23:32:00.003-06:00

Time crunch (I'llexplainlaterbecausemywholepostjustgotdeleted).
Hah. Today I am grateful for the opportunity to learn. At work we just switched software programs, and I feel like I am running around with my head off. What uses to take me 30 seconds now takes me 10 minutes. I don't even know how to do my job (it feels like). Obviously with a big change, I anticipated work would be "tough", I didn't anticipate staring at the computer monitor today and trying to work through "tough". So, with that I am grateful for what I do know, and what I have yet to learn. Not understanding just means I have room for improvement. :)

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Day 1

2011-11-01T23:32:00.001-06:00

Inflated.

2011-10-21T21:41:00.000-06:00

Problem:

I feel like I have been blowing up like a balloon lately. Seriously. All I ever want to do is eat, eat, eat! I feel like I am hungry all the time (NO, I'm not pregnant) and when I'm not eating, I'm thinking about what I will be eating next. This is awful! I truly feel like my life has gotten out of control. Confession: I somewhat determine if my life is in control or not by how I look. Maybe you can relate... but maybe you can't. I think most of my friends are either super skinny, or super fit. I have been exercising too! Pedro and I have been diligently going to the gym every night when I get home from class. Still though, I have been gaining weight. Saturday after a super yummy breakfast at Kneaders, my mom proposed a contest: $50 to whomever loses the most body fat (%) in the next two weeks. This meant I had to weigh myself... something I have been avoiding and dreading for a LONG time... My fears became my reality: I have put on 25 pounds since I started school a year ago, but about 15 recently (within the past two months). I feel awful, and I want to cry. 

Pedro has been doing this program, Body by Vi, and doing well - I need to be better at supporting him but I find myself struggling. I promised Pedro if he wins first place, I will also give him $50 cash equalling $100 cash. He told me he would do the same... luckily, I am competitive, but I feel very depressed that a.) I have allowed my body to get this way and b.) I am so caught up in a number. I know, I know "it doesn't work that way, as long as I am healthy and blah blah blah..." but it is so much easier said than done. 

I have been trying to figure out why I might be wanting to eat food all of the time, and I think I have found the culprit: after not being on birth control for several months, I went back onto a medication that I have been on before, but I'm wondering if that is what it causing me to have such a huge change in appetite. Maybe that is super pathetic of me to "blame" my birth control, (I think I have been off of birth control more than I have actually been on it these past 4-5 years, and the weight gain really isn't working for me). 

I normally try and make myself eat breakfast (this has been a more recent conscious effort, but hasn't been that hard because I feel so hungry), then I won't eat anything again until dinner which is at 4. Pedro is so helpful and sends me to work with healthy snack packs: carrots, celery, and cucumbers. I have noticed in myself lately that if I DON'T eat, I get really cranky (almost like a baby, ha ha) and super emotional/irritated easily.  It's not enjoyable for myself or anyone else around me. I think my eating all of the time has caused me to break out too (see I really feel like my life is out of control, and I HATE this feeling). Being someone who once has lost so much weight and then had gained confidence in myself (about a year and a half ago) this is especially hard, it is a position I never thought I would be in again. I beat myself up for it, because I am beyond disappointed in myself. 

I'm sharing this only because I need support to help get back on track. It is so hard for me to not think realistically. I totally become the irrational person that wants the "quick fix", but I know that is not the healthy, best option for my body. Any suggestions you have I would greatly welcome and appreciate! 

My goal is 30 pounds. My dream is 40. It's not impossible, and it's not unhealthy. I just need help getting there. 

Thanks for listening reading!

Making a House a Home

2011-10-19T08:22:00.000-06:00

I am so proud to say I checked something off of my "To-Do" list past this weekend: I went to the library. I have really wanted to be reading more, and I thought the library was the perfect place to start. Plus, I love that there are also DVD's to rent (free for date nights) and cheap printing (I really just need to buy some new ink for my printer, but until then, I think we will just continue printing in Pinks and Blues...). I just LOVE the library. So, Saturday afternoon, Pedro and I ventured out to the library (I like a specific location too... its a little far away from our house hahaha). Well of all books that I checked out (there were 4 total), two of them were interior decorating books, one was a sewing book, a self-help book, and Jane Eyre (I saw the movie recently, loved it but had absolutely no clue what was going on, so I'd like to know now...).

Going through the interior decorating books (I LOVE stuff like this) really got me thinking: I think if it is feasible and possible, I would so much rather Pedro and I build our next home (Pedro has the talent and skill to build our home from the ground up, which really thrills me!), so that we can have an environment that is exactly how we want it. I thought it would be fun to use my blog as my "Look Book" for some of the ideas that I want in the future. I don't imagine that we would be able to build a home for probably 10 years or so, but a girl can still dream. I deeply believe that the home should be a safe-haven place from the world, somewhere that every member of your family can feel safe, loved, and protected. I would hope that I can create a home that has an inviting spirit so that others feel the same way in my home. If you have alot of time to kill (or even if you don't) and want somewhere you can drool and link up to other sites, check out A Life's Design. Your welcome.I am also going to look for (and share when I can) ways to create your dream home with what you have NOW. I look at these photos and think they are nothing like my bathroom now, but how can I create a place that I equally love on a budget?

So, here are some photos I came across that I love for the master bathroom:

I love the built in shelves above the tub here... great way to add storage and use space:

C/O Style at Home

I love this TALL bath... it isn't quite like all of the vintage baths that are really popular (which I also like) but it is a little bit more modern, which I really like. 

C/O Style at Home

To be really honest... that's all I have time for right now, but I will continue posting photos of things I love and different aspects that stand out to me. I absolutely love decorating!

Spiritual Crocodiles

2011-10-16T21:01:00.000-06:00

I gave the lesson at church today for my M&Ms and shared with them a video I thought for sure they had all seen. Turns out none of them had seen it and so I though maybe I would post it on my blog. I know that I have some friends and readers that do not share the same beliefs as I do - and that's okay. I do believe however, in the message of this short clip. I think that regardless of what beliefs you may have - the concept and message taught rings true. 

After watching this, I totally want to travel to Africa, as much as I totally don't. Not a fan of crocodiles, physical or spiritual. Yuck!

If there are any problems viewing the video, click HERE.

Drive-In!

2011-10-15T23:45:00.000-06:00

This past weekend for date-night I thought it would be fun for Pedro and I to go to a Drive-In movie. Neither of us have ever been to a drive-in theatre so I thought it would be fun. We are searching for date ideas that are low-budget (or no budget) and that are things we may have not done before... Trying to branch out (which is really hard for me to do). I have tried to look up different things to do in the valley or the community calendar but I am open to suggestions as well! I would love for Pedro and I to become a little bit more Boise "cultured" and experience new things together. Really truly - if you have suggestions or things that you have done for date-night, please DO share! I would love to know.

We went and saw Abduction at the Terrace Drive-In. I enjoyed the movie (but you may remember that I have a little crush on the main character).... truly I did - the action was a little intense for my liking (not a fan of fighting scenes) but it was a two thumbs from Pedro and I. 

Happy 50th Dad!

2011-10-12T09:18:00.000-06:00

We celebrated my dad's 50th birthday this past Tuesday! It was so much fun, I hope he enjoyed his day. Pedro and I went and decorated his office Monday evening and we were there until 12:45am (I showed up after class) working non-stop. We had fun prepping for his day. It would not have been possible though, without my mom, because she had around 300 photos printed! We only used half and the place seemed plastered. 

Tuesday night I saw one guest at school then headed over to my parents house to celebrate with the family. I am glad I skipped out to celebrate - I would have been missing out otherwise! :)

Here are some photos we captured throughout the day, I took some on my phone and then some on the camera at work:

Happy Birthday Dad! You may be an "old man" now but I still love you! ;) Jk jk!

Bring on the Rain!

2011-10-05T07:08:00.000-06:00

Cloudy with 100% chance of rain... That's my kind of day! Happy Wednesday/Hump day! The week is halfway over. Gotta say, I'm crimpin' my hair for school tonight and going out like a "cracker" (as my friend Bryce used to call me). Today calls for some Black Bean Soup (I'll post the recipe following this one), some boots, and a sweater. If I had time, maybe reading a good book by the fireplace (I doubt I'll have time though, maybe this weekend). I believe the Fall season has finally arrived, and I LOVE it and welcome Autumn with open arms!

I know what your thinking: mmm-hmmm those are some FINE looking storage units.

Senior Portraits: Devyn

2011-10-04T09:20:00.000-06:00

I had so much fun taking my little brother Devyn's senior portraits! I really love photography (I always have), and I'm so grateful that my mom gave me the opportunity to take these photos! I want to practice and play with my camera whenever I can!  I cannot believe he is a senior this year! Time really flies by! I thought I would share a couple of my favorites with you:

I love my little brother and it is so much fun watching him grow up. He has become a great example to me and is a hilarious guy!!!

Photo-rific Post!

2011-10-02T22:07:00.000-06:00

Well, it's obvious I've been slacking for a little bit. I logged into blogger to blog, and instead I got sucked into reading the rest of the world's blogs. Now that its getting late, I'm a little bit pushed for time, I go to post something and I'm completely lost. Haha, I needed some self-directing, for sure! 

I suppose I need to post this Tumblr style, because I have a skype-date with Short Brookie in 8 minutes! Here's what Pedro and I have been up to (and haven't been up to at all):

Selling healthy snacks at school for the Be Nice team at school with Cambray

Pedro just sleeping

We made a trip to DI, and I was sad to see my mom's ladybug sleeping bag go!

Breakfast for conference!

We had Belgian Waffles with fresh strawberries. You can find the recipe here

We've been on a home-made bread kick... making BLT's and such.

Okay, well my time is up! Skype date is now!!! I promise I will strive better to post this next week!

Party Numero DOS!

2011-09-05T21:30:00.002-06:00

After celebrating Pedro's birthday (late) we traveled down to Twin Falls to celebrate my G-Pa's 87th birthday. He's 87! Wow, that's incredible. He's a funny ole' man. I'm sure we'd all agree.  The things he says... and does (squirrel catching - don't worry animal lovers, he always releases them...after spraying their tail...haha). I woke up Saturday morning with an awful headache (I think it is something about the air lately here... super congested and yucky. I snapped the BEST photo of Pedro when I said "Give me your best Blue Steel..GO!" and this is what I got:

I think it easily my favorite photo of him, to date. Rawr.

So, because we (thanks to yours truly) got a late start, we didn't make it to the Twin Falls Temple session that the rest of the family was going to. I was really bummed. We decided to still travel to the temple and enjoy the beauty and temple grounds. It was a gorgeous day out and we felt so much peace being there. 

We had the opportunity to spend the day with family and it was so much fun! THE game, (as in BYU Cougars) was on that day, so of course, ALL of the men were hooked on watching THE game (maybe I should clarify, EVERY BYU Football game is THE game). I should also mention that all of the men (scratch that, ALMOST... Pedro wore a new coral pink polo that was a birthday gift from Devyn and Ally... but aside from that ALMOST all of the men were wearing some sort of Navy blue showing their cougar pride. I even wore my BYU Cougars shirt. While the men watched the game, us women chatted, socialized, snacked on food, and watched the kids and babies run around and play. It was so much fun.

Later that evening, we snapped some photos of the family, and all of us cousins to celebrate G-Pa's birthday.

Us girl cousins! Back Row: Ally, Jess, Myself, Meg, & Jen. Front Row: Natalie, Reesie, Amy

Happy Birthday G-PA!

On our way out before Boise, I asked Pedro to snap a quick photo of my cousin Jess and I, with her adorable little girl Mae. I am obsessed with how cute she is! She is adorable. 

Party!

2011-09-04T20:40:00.000-06:00

I thought it would be fun to throw Pedro a welcome home party / birthday party after he spent the summer working in Texas. My parents were gracious enough to lend us their house on Friday evening, just four days after Pedro and I arrived back in Boise from traveling to Denver. 

Here's a preview of the AWESOME cupcakes I made for Pedro. I found the idea HERE. They were super easy and turn out pretty amazing...Amazingly CUTE, that is.  

Here's what they looked on the inside:

Happy Birthday to my husband and best friend, El Pedro! I love you and appreciate all you do for me! :) I am so glad you are home!

The Best is Yet to Come!

2011-08-30T16:09:00.000-06:00

Well, after a whole summer of pretty much not-blogging, I swear I'm back! Well, the truth is, Pedro is back! He moved home last Monday and I am so excited! Pedro and I have some big changes we want to share with you, so we are planning on posting those this weekend! 

Okay now I have to go to class! :)

As a side note, my mom told me it sounds funny to say, "Pedro is back! He moved home last Monday..." So, to CLARIFY, in case you didn't know: Pedro traveled to Texas this past summer working for Vivint installing security systems. As it was a summer job, he is now back on the job hunt in Idaho. :)

Feathered.

2011-08-13T23:23:00.000-06:00

I don't know where you live, but around these parts, getting feathers in your hair is "the thing to do" this past summer. I actually learned a FABULOUS technique while in Las Vegas this past February of how to use color to create the look of feathers in your hair, but only using the clients hair. If that makes sense? Anyways, it was awesome. I have been doing feathers for a couple of friends, I haven't taken it "full on" but I do enjoy doing it. 

Because feathers are in such high demand, I thought I'd share with you a little secret: I have a personal supplier. His name is Luke, and he is another future professional (with mega talent and a 'thing' for Avant Garde hairstyles everything) at school.  Anyways, I thought I'd share with you his Etsy Shop if you want to purchase your own feathers (they are super easy to install, and it is a GREAT way to make money quickly), or if you live in the area and want feathers yourself, he's your guy. The selection of feathers he has is fabulous and never ending. 

Visit Boise Hair on Etsy or on Facebook.

Tumblr!

2011-08-08T23:27:00.000-06:00

I created a Tumblr account! Just something for me to share my fun Instagram photos. I love that app, by the way. Did I mention I got a new phone? It is the super fab, iPhone. I am absolutely in LOVE with it. So much better for me than my Droid that would repeatedly die, at the (of course) most inconvenient times. Anyways, I have a lot of blogging catching up to do, PLUS I promised The Inspiration Thief I'd guest post for them. Super exciting stuff, I tell ya!

Anyways, Shanna, I want you to know, this blogging here (I'm hopefully about to do)... it's alllll for you! Hahaha ;)

To follow my photo journey on Tumblr, just click HERE

Date Night! ...Er, Not!

2011-07-29T23:08:00.004-06:00

I went for a date night in after an unusually lengthy Friday. After scrubbing up and down my house, and Daphnie, I treated the remainder of my calorie counting to some Costa. I ate alone and watched the recording of this week's SYTYCD.

Aside from feeling super 'emo' it was a splendid evening. Tomorrow I hope I can really blog it out. :)

Shalom.

2011-07-18T23:45:00.000-06:00

This feels awkward... I miss blogging so much! I have been busy, but I've also been lazy. You see, I usually blog on the weekends, but not so much lately (obviously). I think I miss blogging as much as I miss crafting. Things are just different right now in my home so it's not like I can just crank out a craft for a day and not do anything else... Sad but true story. Plus, my house is pretty quiet, I try to fill my time constantly cleaning, organizing, or doing laundry {sorry neighbors for the constant vacuum!}. I don't even know who I am anymore (and no, it isn't 'nesting'). Somehow, every time I get on blogger, my crafting list and baking/cooking lists get longer and longer. I love it... but it stresses me out because I want to do it ALL! This has got to come to an end (by just getting my craft and blog on).

Here's some photos of what I've been up to lately:

I turned 24... so we used all 24 candles! :) I actually can't post any of the photos that were taken of me, because I look super gordo, however, my parents surprised me with a FANTASTIC activity, which in and of itself deserves it's own blog post. :)

We chill under the sun when we can...


Ordered some shoes online... They are the same ones (different color) that Kate Middleton wears!

 I'm in love with The Possessionista. When I learned that THE Duchess had these shoes and they were {surprisingly} affordable for a commoner, I gave in.  I don't really follow American Idol any more, but she's totally my British Idol... which is really saying something because I don't even believe in "idols" -- aside from royalty, of course. 

Aaaand I doggy-sat.

It is now 11:40, my homework is still not done {for tomorrow}, and I think I'm going to give Daphnie a bath. Where are my priorities?!? Sheesh.

Mystery Package!

2011-06-20T20:55:00.001-06:00

I received a notice from FedEx that I had a package awaiting for me. I was totally expecting some legal paperwork and thought that was what it was. So, I wrote a nice little note for the FedEx person to place the package on the back patio....

When I came home, this is what I found:

A package from Mars, Inc. I got super excited, thinking it was some voucher that had been redeemed from two years ago when I did some thing (whole memory is vague) for a free chocolate bar from Mars, Inc. I was in for an even sweeter treat!

Pedro went online and ordered some M&Ms for my birthday with custom messages on them! How sweet (literally) and thoughtful is that! I was SO excited! Even came with a cute little bowl. My favorite number is 3, and there were 3 bags in the box. He also picked my favorite colors (PINK), red, and a iridescent white.

Thank you Pedro! What a great way to start the birthday week!

HoT PiNk Zebra, Please!

2011-06-19T08:46:00.003-06:00

Please excuse my ~~sporadic~~ lack of blogging. I miss it. I need new Internet too (suggestions?). When I get off from work, I spend my time doing homework, studying, watching cutting dvds, or doing laundry and/or dishes... feels like that's what I'm doing before work too... and sometimes after school. Haha. I just have not had the time to keep up with it all! Recently, a great friend suggested I just do the simple post every day about what I am grateful for... kind of like what I did last fall when I had no time. I think I can do that... especially because I have so much I feel grateful for so many things this past week! Next week, I will be posting something everyday, because it is my BIRTHDAY WEEK, and I, of course, celebrate all week, and it is my GOLDEN birthday this year.... To start things off, I had to get some 'birthday nails': sparkle white with hot pink zebra.

BOOM.

For my grateful list from this past week, here goes (to get me caught up)

A.) Opportunity to be in school... I know I always say that, but truly, I love it. Last weekend (or maybe the weekend before?) I was telling Pedro how I think I will be a life-long learner. I just love learning new things and waiting for something to "click" with me. I also think that education is priceless, truly. It is something nobody can ever steal from you, unless you were brainwashed or something.

B.) My family. They are everything to me

C.) My friends - always offering a listening ear, so supportive, and make me laugh. They are heaven-sent friends.

D.) My dad - This past week I had to have a root-canal. A few of years ago I had a really deep cavity that I needed filled. It never bothered me afterwards, but a couple of months ago I would notice that my mouth hurt when I went running, but nothing too major or concerning. I really thought it was my sinuses. Then, for the past little while (few months maybe) my mouth has been hurting. I honestly thought I was either grinding my teeth at night from stress, or my teeth were shifting because of my invisalign aligners. It wasn't too painful (though I couldn't eat on it) and I never said anything because I figured it would go away. This past week while I was getting my teeth cleaned, Donna discovered something in my mouth that was cause for concern... long story short, an x-ray revealed I had an abscess. I tried really hard to remain calm, but inside I was freaking out, trying not to cry. I knew what had to be done treatment wise, but didn't want to do it. It freaks me out to be the patient in the chair... Upon Donna's suggestion, I was sedated for my root canal. It went fairly smoothly (for me, because I was sleeping!). I am so grateful though that my dad was able to take the time to work on my mouth. I felt overwhelmed with gratitude knowing that he took time from his schedule to work on me. It was such a blessing! Especially because I honestly don't know how I could have afforded that... it's just "one of those things" that you have a "rainy day fund" for.

E.) The Priesthood. I received a blessing this past week, and I just so deeply feel that God is knows me, and is aware of my ups and downs, the triumphs and struggles I go through. I feel grateful I could feel that reminder and confirmation again this past week through a priesthood blessing.

F.) My mom. Seriously, my mom is the bomb dot com. There's no need for me to get emotional here (that could just be awkward since I'm typing, and nobody would see me being emotional, haha) but I really could cry when I think of how great my mom is. She is always there for me, always a friend to me, and I feel so grateful for the relationship I have with her. There are so many qualities that I admire in her. She is my mentor.

I don't mean to miss any{one} or thing here, because I have had quite the list these past couple of weeks, but I thought I would name a couple of them that were especially weighing on my mind.

Thanks Blanca for reminding me of the simple ways of blogging!

Let the Celebration{s} Begin!

2011-06-18T20:39:00.001-06:00

Since Short Brookie's birthday is today, and my birthday is a week from yesterday, we thought it would be so much fun to combine our birthdays and celebrate this weekend. Brookie and Jaydaka came to stay the night with me. I was so excited, it was the highlight of my week!!! We had time to catch-up, talk, laugh, shop, and go out to dinner.

Friday night we went shopping and then ate a yummy dinner at Cheesecake Factory followed by more shopping. We had fun, but poor Jaydaka was a tired girl!

This morning I made Brookie these and they turned out super yummy (I was honestly a little surprised, because I didn't quite know if the recipe would turn out based on the night before).... I sang her 'Happy Birthday' and she blew out the candles. It was a great morning. We headed over to my parents house to go swimming, and unfortunately it was raining, but we still got some time in the pool. The water was so warm, which was nice because it felt a little chilly outside. Jaydaka was a little fish! My goodness she isn't afraid of the water, she did so much better than Daphnie does in the water, and Daphnie is a poodle (the breed used to be water-dog retrievers, I'm pretty sure).

After a visit to U-Swirl, a local frozen yogurt joint, Brookie had to head home. I was so grateful to have her with me this weekend, and I feel soo blessed to have such a wonderful friend! She is such a GREAT example to me! I love how she keeps me in line.... I just love her (and Jaydaka & James) to pieces!

Here are some photos (not many) that we snapped...

Wee Bit Wednesday

2011-06-15T10:52:00.016-06:00

I'm SLOW, but I'm BUSY (truly truly... that isn't a lie nor an exaggeration. I constantly tell Pedro what I do and don't have time for; I'm sure he loves it.)

Haha. So here we go:{one} what color best describes you + why? Hot Pink with Sparkles. The BEST. It's bright and girly. {two} how have you changed in the past year?Wow, I have changed so much, in my opinion. I think I'm the same person I have always been, but I am feeling more and more comfortable with who I am, and where I am going. I think with the different obstacles life has thrown my way, I've matured and grown up a bit too. I've also been trying really hard to be a kinder person.

{three} have you ever had any surgeries? Yes, had my tonsils removed in 2008. Awesome. Actually it was only the recovery that wasn't so awesome.... and it was 5 months after getting married. Super attractive to wake your spouse up in the middle of the night vomiting blood. YUCK.
{four} why did you start your blog?Honestly I started my blog back in 2006, just because I wanted to view my ward blog at BYU-Idaho. I don't think I ever REALLY posted anything until 2007... at that point it was journaling for El Pedro and I. {five} what are you looking forward to this summer?Spending time with my family, hopefully getting a summer tan, and being active!
{six} do you have any family traditions for the 4th of July?Not really that I can think of, just a family BBQ and fireworks... we used to do the Stadium of Fire in Provo alot... but not so much anymore. Pedro and I like to watch the fireworks for the city in the park or on Simplot's Hill. I personally would love to make it a tradition to be out camping for the weekend. We did it last year with the Brooke's, super fun, LOVED it!
{seven} what’s something new that you’ve tried in the past few months?Hmmm... a nape razor?! Haha, LOVED that... can't think of anything else for the moment.
{eight} what is the perfect a/c temperature?Oh boy, I think it constantly changes. I am cold-blooded, and I think I am constantly cold. I know I prefer the a/c on in the summertime, I hate having my house too hot when I have the ability to cool it down. Pedro and I constantly change the thermostat. One time, he changed it for me (turned up the heat) and I didn't realize it, so I turned it up too, myself. We BOTH (instead of just Pedro) woke up in the night sweating. Haha.
{nine} what was the last movie you saw in the theater?Pirates of The Caribbean 4. I enjoyed it!
{ten} what song do you think everyone should hear at least once?ooooh, toughy! I LOVE music. I would recommend currently 'The Light' by Sarah Barreilles or "All About Your Heart" by Mindy Gledhill. Both are soft but have sweet messages.

Hey Hey Hey ... Goodye!

2011-06-10T20:04:00.002-06:00

On a whim this past week, I decided to whack my hair off.... I went with an asymmetrical bob...LOVE it!

Hence the title, "Na na na na, na na na na, hey, hey, hey, Goodbyeeeee"!

The Light

2011-06-06T09:59:00.000-06:00

I recently stumbled across a song that I am head over heels in LOVE with. It is called The Light by Sarah Bareilles. Here are the lyrics:

In the morning it comes

Heaven sent a hurricane

Not a trace of the sun

But I don't even run from rain

Beating out of my chest

Heart is holding on to you

From the moment I knew

You were the air in my breath

Filling up my love soaked lungs

Such a beautiful mess

Intertwined and overrun

Nothing better than this

Ooh, and then the storm can come

You feels just like the sun

Just like the sun

And if you say, "Be alright"

I'm gonna trust you, babe

I'm gonna look in your eyes

And if you say, "Be alright"

I'll follow you into the light

Never mind what I knew

Nothing seems to matter now

Ooh, who I was without you

I can do without

No one knows where ends

How it may come tumbling down

But I'm here with you now

I'm with you now

And if you say, "Be alright"

I'm gonna trust you, babe

I'm gonna look in your eyes

And if you say, "Be alright"

I'll follow you into the light

Let the world come rushing

Come down hard, come crushing

All I need is right here beside me

And all the love I'm swearing

Take my love and wear it

Over your shoulders

And if you say, "Be alright"

I'm gonna trust you, babe

I'm gonna look in your eyes

And if you say, "Be alright"

I'll follow you into the light

What a better photograph than this to show with these lyrics? My own little brother, Devyn with a Y, snapped this under the sun last Saturday.

Finally: The Big Apple

2011-06-05T10:16:00.000-06:00

For now, I'm just posting the photos I uploaded to FB, but there are more! I'm just really into editing them a little bit, so I want some more time before I upload those.
I have to say, I ABSOLUTELY LOVED New York City. Loved it. If I didn't want the life I want (haha sounds funny) I would totally live there. Basically, what I mean is: if I didn't want to raise children and live on a potato farm then I would so be living in NYC with the fast pace. I feel a little home(?)sick for it now.

BEST TRIP, I can't believe how blessed I am! I feel so grateful for all of the wonderful opportunities I constantly have, and especially since I began school!

Just Some Hair!

2011-06-04T22:43:00.000-06:00

I'm having a BLAST in school. Here are some things I've recently done:

My newer and {favorite} girl, Ramona!

Razor cut on Olive {Rose}

Lady of the Manor Up-Do Style

Wedding Up-Do (this was our run-through night)

Having formatting issues with Blogger = bomb dot com. :)

Separation Anxiety

2011-06-04T21:56:00.003-06:00

I'm convinced my little Baby Dee is suffering from Separation Anxiety. She's been acting up lately (don't let that cute face fool you!). It makes me sad. She's too cute to be acting naughty! I've been trying to do some research and I've decided to dedicate myself to re-training her. Hopefully something helps my little pup!

Reasons Why #174

2011-06-02T09:48:00.016-06:00

Pedro sent me a random bouquet of flowers at work, just because. What a beautiful surprise that was!

Made my ~~day~~ ~~week~~ month. Best wedding advice was recently given by President Munson (Prophet of my church, to learn about what I believe, click HERE or HERE)was this:

Choose your Love. Love your choice.

Wee Bit of Me Wednesdays

2011-05-18T14:44:00.000-06:00

{one} do you watch the history channel? if so, what’s your favorite program?No, I don't have cable. If I did have cable... maybe! I love history.

{two} what is your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?Cuddle up with Daphnie and read a book... with the curtains open! Maybe make some soup!

{three} what does your dream house look like?

Oh if only I could find a picture... I would post it. Very Tuscany-feel. Ish.

{four} what state were you born in?Utah

{five} do you have a change jar? if so, what do you use it for when it gets full?Nope, I have my piggy bank and then my iPhone fund jar though. That's where any spare change goes!

{six} what’s the first website you look at when you get on the computer?Um...blogger. Everything else these days is on my mobile.

{seven} what is your favorite breakfast?French Toast! Yummy! Although, because my mom is so wonderful, she made homemade cinnamon rolls and I got one at work today! That was the best breakfast! :)

{eight} what’s the most memorable trip you’ve ever taken?Ooooh... tie between Europe, Ecuador, and New York City last week. all were so amazing... but honestly, the most MEMORABLE was Ecuador.

{nine} do you prefer your coffee black or with cream/milk/sugar?I don't drink coffee... I like my hot chocolate to be a Raspberry Hot chocolate, with whipped cream, please.

{ten} have you ever done a professional photo shoot?Yeah, actually I did one year at this fun beautifully modest camp! Super awesome! We had our hair and makeup done, the works!

My Heart is Full

2011-05-16T23:12:00.000-06:00

I haven't forgotten about blogging, I promise! I just returned from a FABULOUS trip to the Big Apple, also known as New York City and I most definitely need to blog about that. I feel like so many things have happened these past couple of weeks, I will have so much "catching up" to do. On a much more personal note, I have another reason for blogging tonight. One that tugged at my heart strings yesterday that I chose not to address, but as my own online journaling, I will {somewhat} address it tonight.

I normally don't blog about religion, or religious things, for that matter... I suppose I do on occasion, but not every single post. You catch my drift. I just don't want to forget this: yesterday I felt so blessed. I truly felt as though God was aware of me and looking out for me. I felt so much comfort and peace. Throughout the day, I had tender mercies of the Lord - different ways I was blessed. I am so grateful for those in my life that are in-tune with the Spirit...while in perspective, part of the day was extremely rough, the other part was extremely enriching. I had individual people that I felt were angels throughout the day for me...one huge blessing was that my mom let me "shop" in her pantry because I didn't make it out grocery shopping. I can't write too much without my vision blurring over {and therefore not see the screen through tears} but I absolutely feel like I have the world's best mother. She is such an example, a beacon of light to me. I am so grateful for the example that I feel like my parents and siblings set for me. I need their examples to help guide me. 

 Sometimes I feel like the guidance I need cannot be fulfilled by another person {although possibly through another} but I know that God knows exactly what I need and He will guide me. I am not sure what my future holds, but I am sure that my God is aware of me, and that He loves me. Knowing that, I am so eternally grateful, and I know I can get through anything. With that, I need to go really write about my day yesterday and the personal experiences I had, before it slips my memory...

Wee Bit of Me Wednesdays

2011-05-11T23:12:00.000-06:00

I know, I know, its a week late, but I had a FAB excuse... so here we go:

{one} what profession have you always admired?Doctors. I admire their dedication to get through school, and the ones that are truly passionate about helping those in need... it is beautiful to me.

{two} what would the title of your memoir/biography be if it was written today?Love, Always... just because I really do believe love is the answer.... and there are a couple of different ways you can read that title...I believe the people we struggle with, we pray to love them and then we find a deeper love for them than we ever knew could exist.

{three} how far do you commute to work?I think it is about 9 1/2 miles one way, a 20 minute drive. To school it is about 10 minutes...I spend an hour on average in my car every day.

{four} are your earlobes attached or detached?Detached.

{five} do you eat the unpopped kernels of popcorn at the bottom of the bag?No, those hurt my mouth to think about. I remember Anna and I would suck on them for the salt though when we were younger!

{six} what is the strangest gift you’ve ever received?I'm afraid to say, for who reads my blog... though it was years ago it was some weird candle thing...

{seven} what is one tv show that you wish hadn’t been cancelled?Hmmm... not sure, but I LOVE FRIENDS. All good things must come to an end though, I suppose...

{eight} what is something that you are saving money for right now?Hahaha... what aren't I saving for should be the question! A Savings, an iPhone, windshield replaced on my car {more like I need to just go and get it done}, another JoTotes bag {SAVED my life in NYC!}, I could go on...

{nine} what hobby would you like to take up?I really wish I could put more dedicated time in to Photography right now. I have always had a passion for photography.

{ten} how many times a year do you get really dressed up?Like really, REALLy dressed up? Maybe once a year... for fun! Technically I already took care of 2011 in Vegas! I'm sure I'll take advantage of it on my birthday coming up... {June 24th, mark your calendarssssssss!}

Wee Bit of Me Wednesdays

2011-05-04T23:10:00.003-06:00

{one} when was the last time you used a pay phone (if ever)?It was in middle school. I remember I was crying, but I really didn't need to be. Haha.

{two} did you ever fail a subject in school? I'm sorry what? Failure is not an option.

{three} where do you go to get your favorite hamburger/cheeseburger?Red Robin (Yummmm)
{four} have you ever served jury duty?Nope
{five} how old were you when you moved out of your parents’ house?17. Weird. I turned 18 a few days later though.
{six} what is your favorite color to wear?Love wearing coral and bright colors! Oooh and navy blue.
{seven} do you have a pair of shoes that you wear all the time?All the time? I always find my Merrill's for good comfort in the winter time... not for the summer time {for the particular kind I have}
{eight} do you enjoy talk radio?No. I do however, enjoy my dad listening to talk radio. Haha
{nine} if you could turn one unhealthy food into a healthy one, what food would it be?Oh snap! Maybe ice-cream.... no really I wish all CARBS could be created equal to PROTEINS. Hahhaha. that's the truth. I could keep going here, but I won't.
{ten} who is the best speaker you’ve ever heard in person?Barbara Barrington Jones. LOVE her!

I'm not making guarantees, but I may {gasp} come back from the dead and find some time to blog tomorrow... no promises though!

Wee Bit of Me Wednesdays

2011-04-27T22:46:00.001-06:00

{one} have you ever been stuck in an elevator?No, thank goodness! {watch it happen to me next week}

{two} have you ever ridden on an elephant?No, that would be amazing for sure though!
{three} have you ever met a well known celebrity?Yes...well I met Kherington Payne. She famous in the dance world.

{four} do you have any food allergies?No, but I don't think my stomach loves gluten so much.

{five} do you know how to sew?Yes. ABSOLUTELY LOVE sewing!

{six} did you get an allowance when you were young?Yes! We put 10% into tithing (church), and 25% to savings. The bomb dot com for doing chores and being a kid right there!

{seven} how often do you fill up your gas tank?Hmm... probably every 3 weeks.

{eight} have you ever been stung by a jelly fish?No. Thank goodness!

{nine} have you ever been robbed?I don't even like this question. It's creepy. Pleading the 5th...
{ten} what is the worst haircut you’ve ever had?The worst? Hmmm... I think it was maybe last fall when I just was more disappointed that my hair was falling out more than anything. Blanca says "technically it was a great cut" but combined with the color, not so much...

Wee Bit of Me Wednesdays

2011-04-20T22:57:00.004-06:00

{one} how often do you do laundry?Once a week…at least. I'm a laundry-addict.
{two} what is your favorite type of cookie?Ooooh I love cookies. Classic Chocolate Chip {with ground up oatmeal} or chocolate cookies with chocolate frosting {and a marshmallow in between}
{three} what would you do with an extra $2000 per month?Pay bills. If it truly was like extra 'spending' money, I'd use it for play, crafting. {four} what was/is your favorite subject in school?English & Reading
{five} have you ever ridden in a hot air balloon?No, but that is on my bucket list as well! Sounds amazing! {six} what was your high school mascot?Patriots. {seven} if you had the chance to go into space, would you?For SURE! So cool! {eight} how often do you go dancing?Never. Unless it is at my house in my room! Haha {nine} would you rather drive or fly?Drive. {ten} have you ever been caught re-gifting?No…I don't believe I've ever been caught... ha-ha. Pedro has a shirt that says "Re-gift Responsibly". So true.

Quick Homeplay Break!

2011-04-17T21:26:00.002-06:00

It's 9pm on a Sunday night I still have homeplay coming out of my ears! Haha longest chapter ever!!! Seriously. This weekend I've been working on blog designs, and we also spent some time with family! Saturday Brookie, James, and Jaydaka came up to visit! We first met up at Red Robin and then we spent the day shopping/walking the mall and other stores around the valley. We had a blast {and found a cheapo-security alarm system for our house - $10 cheap!}. I captured a couple of photos at the beginning of the day... here's what I've got:

I've gotta jet, Pedro and I have SO much to get done these next two weeks, and any spare time I have will be spent with him! While we are moving into this transition, not sure how much blogging I'll get done, haha just a heads up. I'm sure come mid-May I'll find much more time!

Also - to those who commented from my jealousy post, in hindsight, I realize that was VERY ungrateful and awful for me to post. I have bloggers remorse. Thank you for your words of support and encouragement {and understanding}, I needed it!

Love ya'll,

Cutie Pa-tootie little Twinners!

2011-04-15T10:18:00.000-06:00

Don't let these cute little faces fool you. What do these to little pups have in common, aside from their puffy vests?

A. They both choose to fight over each other's toys
B. They both demand attention... I'd like to say, particularly my attention, haha
C. They enjoy destructing things...
D. Both are very vocal... Baby Dee barks when someone is at the door (thrill me. OH JOY). Titus whines when he wants your attention. Its actually hilarious, but not after 15 minutes... hahahahaha

Love my little pups, and I love that my dad owns one of them! ahaha, because I don't know how well I can handle it 24/7.

Nobody Likes a Party-Pooper!

2011-04-14T16:01:00.000-06:00

I just wrote a completely awful, negative post... even though it was exactly how I feel, it was inappropriate {in my opinion}.

After spending too much time getting all of my feelings out, I deleted it. Completely. Not sure if I feel better or not yet. It was all about what a jealous and envious person I am feeling like today, not an attractive quality or trait, for sure. It began last night when I was watching a little baby run around... and then the jealousy overcame me like the ~~swine flu~~ H1N1 took over everyone {almost}. I wanted that. I wanted my own little babe to be chasing after.

I became a jealous extremist when I started reading my friends blogs about their "oh-so perfect lives, perfect boyfriends/husbands, perfect children {even when they were naughty}, perfect jobs..." and everything else in their lives that is just "peachy". It makes me so happy for them, but so - envious. I'd love to say to them, "My perception is that you have it ALL, and your life is PERFECT... what do you struggle with, ever?"

I wish that I had a pill that I could take to take away my bitterness. Wouldn't that be nice? As brutally honest as it is, I can assure you, my life is not perfect. Some days are great, some days are okay, and some days are downright awful. I think when I feel like this its just good for me to remember, that I DO have people that I love, and that love me in return. I still have happiness constantly surrounding me, and just because I don't feel like I have it all, doesn't mean I really don't.

I snapped these photos yesterday and it's definitely what is cheering me up today... tomorrow maybe I'll spend my time thinking of how to clone El Pedro.... yep, that's a good plan.

Only other person I know to fall asleep like this.... My dad! Haha

Here's a fabulous quote I posted on FB recently {I really don't think it has much to do with my jealous-rant here, but it is a FABULOUS quote that I love, and helps keep me going):

Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I will try again tomorrow."
- Mary Anne Radmacher

Thanks for still letting me get that out...tomorrow I promise to be more chipper, {~~BUT SERIOUSLY IF ANYONE OUT THERE IS WITH ME ON THIS ONE, SPEAK UP!~~}

Wee bit of Me Wednesdays

2011-04-13T15:54:00.000-06:00

{one} have you ever fainted?Yes. Scariest thing ever because I woke up feeling like I was in a dream, but wasn't.

{two} what is your favorite casino game?I don't actually play casino games (or gamble for that matter) but I know how to play Black Jack!

{three} do you have a good sense of direction?Hmmm.. I'd like to think I do, but let's be honest here: probably not.

{four} laptop or desktop? Truly, I like desktops better, but I LOVE the convenience of sitting in bed and being on the laptop, makes it so nice to catchup on my blog reading at night!
Ugh, I usually pull it half up and flip the bottom half of the hair out.

{six} do you read the newspaper on a daily basis?No. I will catch the news when I can, but sometimes it is just way too much negativity for me that I'd rather not.

{seven} do you have a favorite celebrity chef?Ummm... There's a man that goes into peoples homes and helps them whip up some fantastic meal for their loved ones... Don't judge because I don't know for sure... but I think it is Curtis Stone... I think he's Australian? Ummmmm if not him, MY MOM. :) {She's a star!}

{eight} what tv show would you like to make a guest appearance on?Oh, hands down: Grey's Anatomy. I'd be the patient that needs my head checked by Dr. ~~McDreamy~~ Shepard.

{nine} do you have satellite radio in your car?No....

{ten} what was the last movie that made you cry?Hmmm I feel like I haven't seen any sad movies lately... Pedro told me to say "The Notebook" because I ALWAYS have a sob-fest in that movie. Everytime.

Okay, your turn for Wee Bit of Me Wednesdays! Head over to My Leigh Ashley's and linky up!!!

{five} what is your go-to hair style when having a bad hair day?

Birthday Weekend {Last Weekend}

2011-04-12T10:07:00.001-06:00

Last weekend Pedro and I went out to Pedro's parent's house to celebrate Tom (brother-in-law Tom)'s birthday. That was alot of possessing in one sentence... Anywhoo - I was disappointed I forgot my camera, however, I am silly and I don't know if they even know that I enjoy photography (they all say Sara is the photographer) and so its probably okay I didn't have my camera to snap photos... not quite comfortable enough with it yet. Haha. Anyway, we went to a nearby park to play a game and then fed some cute little duckies... I had to snap a couple of photos on my phone, because I'm building up the comfort zone, haha.

Sara and Jamie feeding the ducks

Being dumb in the car.... well I was belting out "Friday" by Rebecca Black moments before!!!!

This was a pre-scheduled post because I really don't have time this week,

Too School for Cool!

2011-04-10T22:07:00.001-06:00

I know I have been awful about blogging lately, and truthfully I've just had other priorities and I've been busy. I've been trying to get some things sorted out {in case you didn't notice I went private for maybe 24 hours... hahaha, but I made some other changes elsewhere, like my contact email!}

Well, I'm CONSIDERING having two blogs this summer, one that is private and then this one... we'll see. I just need to decide. With Pedro leaving, I'm not sure how comfortable I am with sharing everything but not having my bodyguard around... if ya know what I mean.

This past week I had such a privileged opportunity to meet Debra Dietrich. If you don't know who Debra Dietrich is, she is the bomb dot com. Google her, seriously. You will find her on IMDB and on her website, so just click HERE! The woman is incredible! She is full of energy, and is not afraid to be herself and say what she thinks, which is a quality I really admire. I'd like to share {for my own personal memory} some of the things she shared.

These are my personal notes of tips for success that Debra shared:

- Campaign for YOURSELF - every single time.
- Next step in your career: do the thing you fear the most. {Can I just say this spoke to me on such a deep level... wow, that is really powerful when you take a minute to think about it!}
- Integrity is being truthful to YOURSELF AND others when no one else is watching.
- Become an expert in your field, whatever it may be.
- Ask for what YOU want, every single time (it is okay to be direct!)
- Monitor your relationships and friendships with others. Choose to be around your mentors, or people you look up to. Do not invest in relationships or friendships with people you do not look up to... and monitor what you give.
- Purge your life: if it is not aesthetically pleasing, emotionally attached, or functional then just get rid of it!
- Live by the 24 hour rule. Take a daily inventory of my life - "was I rude, mean, crude, or unattractive today? What do I need to "cleanup" in my life?" Don't lose sleep over things that are not worth it.
- When your mind says no and your mouth says yes, DO IT {and KEEP doing it!}
- People really don't care what I'm eating or when I'm feeling sick on Facebook... that's why we have twitter.
- Constantly reinvent yourself.
- It is an observation, not a judgement.

Live authentically, and be honest.

I don't have much time, but I can most definitely say that I have absolutely found a new Mentor. I felt so uplifted and inspired meeting her. She was wonderful. What a neat woman! I am so so so grateful for the opportunity I had to go. You know when it feels like life hands you lemons sometimes? I definitely have felt this past two weeks that God has been giving me lemonade. I have a wonderful job that I love, and a wonderful boss that called me this past week and said "Education is important, go to Debra's class!". I also received a phone call from the school owner, Lou Starita last week inviting me to travel to New York City in May for education with Vivienne Mickander.... {Remember this post?} I was speechless but I feel so blessed.

My night is coming to a close, but I hope I have more time to blog this week! I have some blogs I am working on designing and my goal is to install them hopefully next weekend... so those will be keeping me busy! I have some projects I have been working on (and since completed) and I also have some SUPER yummy recipes I need to share soon!

Oh - if we want to talk update, Pedro woke up with like, BLOOD in his eyes today. NOT bloodshot, but like blood vessels that were popped... and a little bit of a black eye... I'm not even joking. I took pictures but it's a little too graphic. That was from too much heavy lifting... I swear.

Now I think I understand how Michelle Money woke up with that black eye on The Bachelor,

Wee Bit of Me Wednesdaysw

2011-04-06T07:49:00.000-06:00

I know I've been lacking in the blogging department... I've been busy I promise, and as soon as I can I'll try to catch up! I have photos to share as well! Yay for photos! Okay, also, I LOVE the new button for Wee Bit Wednesdays! Oh one more thing... I'm working on blogs so that's super fun!

{one} what is one food that, as an adult you love, but as a child you said you’d never touch?

Hmmm... tomatoes?
{two} did you go to college? if yes, what was your major?I went to college and my official declared major was Elementary Education. When I go back I am either going to do Interior Design or Graphic Design with a minor in photography and a cluster/emphasis in business.
{three} what’s the most wild animal you’ve seen in real life (not counting the zoo)?Probably something in the Amazon... haha world's smallest monkey, maybe? Otherwise... a moose in the forest!
{four} have you ever been to a fortune teller?Nope... kinda freaks me out a little, not going to lie.
{five} can you juggle?HAhahahaha. No. Not even with scarves. I know they tried to teach me in elementary school though. Pedro can though...
{six} hardwood floors or carpet?Oooh I love the look of hardwood floors... but carpet is so soft! I say a combination of BOTH, although my dream home is hardwood throughout most of the home...
{seven} is it called “soda” or “pop”?I used to say pop, then I met the Brookes from California who insisted on Soda. It kinda stuck, so now I say soda. Sometimes even SODA POP. Just like Britney (who understands that?!) haha.
{eight} what was your first car?A Red 1996 Grand Jeep Cherokee. LOVED it!!!
{nine} what is the most decadent dessert you’ve ever eaten?Hands down chocolate souffle from Roy's Hawaiin Fusion!
{ten} how often do you rearrange your furniture?I used to do that all the time but not anymore! There aren't many options with our space and our furniture, so "it is what it is" right now...

Wee bit of Me Wednesdays

2011-03-30T13:04:00.000-06:00

{one} if you won a trip to Disneyland/world, who would you take with you?

Pedro

{two} when was the last time you listened to a CD?

Today on my way into work

{three} what spice/seasoning is your favorite?

Cinnamon

{four} if you were in a band, what kind of music would you play?

Haha probably pop... like Katy Perry Pop or Miley Cyrus. Hahahahah.

{five} if you could have personally witnessed one historical event, which one would it be?

Right now.... I'd pick the first Thanksgiving.

{six} if you could go back to school, what would you study?

Well, I'm in school now, studying HAIR, Skin/Makeup, and Nails... but WHEN I do go back I think I'll major in Interior Design and/or Graphic Design and do a minor in Photography and an emphasis/cluster in business. BOOM.

{seven} if you could go to one sporting event, all expenses paid, which one would you see?

World Cup Soccer Game..

{eight} do you drive an automatic or a manual?

Both... my car is automatic, but I drive the car that is manual for better gas mileage...

{nine} are you comfortable speaking in front of people?

It depends... honestly I don't mind it (especially if I know the group). Not my absolute favorite thing, but not something I feel like I have to shy away from, either.

{ten} have you ever experienced an earthquake?

Nope! Thank goodness!

Wee Bit of Me Wednesdays

2011-03-23T16:26:00.000-06:00

I've missed a couple of weeks, and I can't believe I'm squeezing this one in here today! Yay! 

{one} what was your first job?Working as a sterilization tech in a dental office and teaching dance... I honestly don't remember which came first.
{two} have you ever seen a stand up comedian?Yes. I took Pedro to see Brian Regan for his birthday last year. He was fantastic!
{three} when was the last time you played mini golf?Last time I played mini golf....was with my little brother Devyn... it's been within the past 6 months.
{four} what was the last picture you took?Hmmm... at Brookie's house of Jaydaka on her birthday!
{five} burnt food: yes or no?Do I like it? NO. Have I done it? YES.
{six} if you have a pocket full of change, what do you do with it?I don't ever carry change (Pedro does, on a daily basis, just coins, but it's funny just the same) but if I did, I'd put it in my cute little piggy {savings} bank!
{seven} can you touch your tongue to your nose?NOPE. Yucky.
{eight} do you scrapbook?Wow, I've never actually had the patience for scrapbooking, but I do love the look of it! I like online scrapbooking alot {almost better} but I don't do that either...
{nine} do you buy lottery tickets?Nope. I thought when I turned 18 I'd be super "rebellious" and buy one... yeah no, never happened, probably won't ever will.
{ten} do you prefer to be in front of the camera or behind it?Absolutely behind it. I LOVE photography!

Big News! {Not the Baby Kind}

2011-03-22T13:26:00.001-06:00

It's official: Pedro will be moving to Iowa in a few short weeks! He will be working over there for the summer through the end of August / early September. This will be a new thing for us, as I am not going with him, but it is going to be a great experience and will help us grow as a couple. Pedro will be working in Iowa and northern Illinois. We are going to road trip the 23 hour drive together over there, help him get settled in, and then I will fly home where I will continue to work and attend school.

We are hoping for many things from this experience this summer, but who knows what the future will have in store for us! These next few weeks we will be spending DEEP SPRING CLEANING (I'll post more on that later, I've got a bedtime to adhere to!), packing up boxes, having a garage sale (usually not a fan of shopping at them... unless its for thrifty DIY projects, but we're trying to get financially "on-track" here) and getting ready to move. Our goal is to have our house listed and on the market {again} by April 16th. I know the time will sneak up on us!

This will mean quite a few new things for us this summer.... I wish I could say more about it, but I don't know that I feel comfortable to. All I can say is that the experience will be a challenge, but a beautiful blessing as well.

With that, here are 5 RANDOM facts about Iowa!

1. Iowa means "beautiful land"

2. Iowa is the only state name that starts with two vowels.

3. Iowa became the 29th state on December 28th, 1846, after Congress finally persuaded the state to change its name from "Corntopia".

4. Iowa gets more tornadoes than any other state.

5. About one-fifth of the country's corn comes from Iowa's rich farm lands

Photo credit found HERE

Total side note, I have no idea if the above facts are legit (haha) ... I found them on the internet {which would have been okay citing for my 5th Grade State report, but these days... you never know} so ya know... I guess Pedro will find out for himself!

Hasta La Vista {baby!},

Tutorial: Pre-Posting

2011-03-21T09:15:00.017-06:00

I believe it was Saturday that I had a few different people ask me how I find the time to blog. I'm going to let you in on a little secret: I don't have the time, and I rarely find the time! I discovered something that I'm going to share with you (which you may already know about, if so, good for you!) that I rely on HEAVILY.

It is what I call "Pre-Posting". I can usually find some time on Sundays or during the weekend to post and update my blog. When I have enough time, I will write a blog post, and "schedule" it to be "published" later that week (or any date of my choosing). Then, during the week, my blog post "publishes" at the time I've scheduled it for, and at that point, I've usually forgotten.

Here's how this is done:

1. Type up your blog post: "lalallalalblakjdflkjasdlkfj yer mom...."

2. Down below your "post section" you'll see where it says "Post Options".... I've circled it for you. CLICK that.

3. Down pops your screen with your options.... on the right side it says "Post date and time". Select the bubble that says "Scheduled at".

4. Type in the date and time that you would like your post to be "published". For me (for this post) I want it to show up on Monday afternoon. So I wil select 3/21/2011 at 9:15 AM

5. Click 'Publish Post' and it will take you to your list of posts page and will say "Scheduled" on the side. That's all you have to do! You can get back to life and not worry about posting every second of every day! Let me know if you have any problems, questions, concerns with this!

Happy {pre} posting,

Birthday Partie{s}!

2011-03-20T10:37:00.000-06:00

These past couple of weeks have been super busy and {SUPER} stressful for me. I've just had a lot going on and I have barely been able to handle it all... Thanks to God, Pedro, and my family {and a couple of fabulous friends - I hope you know who you are - ahem, Blanca} I've been able to make it through. I see the light at the end of the tunnel! Yay! Super excited about that.

Photo credit found HERE

Anyway, aside from being so busy, I've also felt extremely emotional, pessimistic, and sensitive... hence my lack of blogging. I really hate to bring any negativity to my blog, so when that happens, I just don't post. Contrary to popular belief (not really) I'm not always as chipper and perky as I seem! Haha... but I do try! Happiness is for sure a way of life. So, with that, I can't feel like I can apologize for not blogging when I don't feel that I had anything valuable to share other than a "Wo, is me" pity party/vent.

This past week I happened to have Tuesday night off of class which worked perfectly because it was my mom's birthday! I was SO excited to celebrate with her! My family went to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, then we walked the mall before going home and opening presents and eating {my favorite} chocolate cake. I have the hardest time trying to decide what to get my mom for holidays or events... Pedro and I have discussed it for a while and finally settled on a blouse from Eddie Bauer. We both love that store. Hopefully I can come up with something wonderful for Mother's Day for her.

LOVE LOVE LOVE my mom. Best friend, right there!

Later this week (on Saturday) Pedro and I made our way to Hagerman to see Brookie and James, and to celebrate their sweet Jaydaka's FIRST birthday! It was so much fun! We ate cake and homemade Oreo ice cream (super delish, Brooke made it!). Jaydaka was loving opening presents (even though she was sick and didn't feel well all day... sad story, but true) and was so cute. Pedro and I picked out an outfit and some more super cute bows for her to wear. I went for practical over fun toys. How boring of me!

I captured a couple of photos with my camera, and so did Brooke. It was a great trip and I'm happy to say that Brooke and Jayders are coming up to Boise in a couple of weeks to play some more. I am so excited! Here are a couple of the photos I took while there.... um just kidding if you fell for that because upon review, yeah no that isn't happening. Except for a couple of them:

Not from this weekend, but this picture makes me soooo happy and excited for the Johnson's future!

I can't believe this baby is already 1! I am so lucky and blessed to have the Canfields so close that I can watch their beautiful girl grow up. As a side note, while shopping for her birthday present, I kept telling Pedro how poor we'd be if we had a baby... {especially a little girl} seriously I could go crazy in that department, as Sharpay said it best (in High School Musical 2), "I want it ALL!"

The end.... mmmmkaybye,

Reasons Why #42

2011-03-10T10:35:00.002-07:00

Reason #42 Why I love El Pedro

Dear El Pedro,
I love the way you talk about memories from your mission, or about your grandpa, or Texas...

Love,

Introducing: The Inspiration Thief!

2011-03-08T10:19:00.002-07:00

My cousins started a blog called The Inspiration Thief, and I can tell already it is going to be a fabulous hit! It has everything from recipes, tutorials, to home decor ideas and inspiration. These ladies are talented {runs in the family}! To check it out, click HERE or visit www.inspirationthief.blogspot.com
I am super excited about this! They are currently looking for submissions on decor, DIY projects, recipes, family traditions and anything to improve your home and family. If you are interested in being showcased on Inspiration Thief please contact them at inspirationthief@gmail.com. It's a great way to meet other craftaholics {as I call them}, share your great ideas, and learn other's great ideas as well! Be sure to 'follow' them or leave a comment and let them know you stopped by! Help spread the word!

Blog Design

2011-03-07T10:40:00.004-07:00

Oh, heyyyy friends!

I AM SUPER EXCITED ABOUT THIS!!! {Hence the CAPS LOCK!} I am working on doing some blog designs! I am going to try and build a small portfolio of sites that I have designed, so I need your help! I have three sites that I am already working on, but if you would like a blog "facelift" or make-over, let me know! I am looking for about 3 or 4 more... first come first serve! I am doing it for free while I am creating my portfolio, so let me know ASAP while there are still openings! Send me an email at: sharethesmarts{at}gmail{dot}com. Hopefully I can get a whole thing up and running, but it will take me a little bit of time. If you leave a comment, please leave an email address that I can contact you at!

Spanks,

A New Challenge?

2011-03-06T22:18:00.000-07:00

I love a good challenge!

For sure I am keeping super busy right now! I am officially starting my challenge (although I changed it a little bit, with the influence of my friend Blanca!) tomorrow. I am doing it as a 20 for 20 challenge and my ~~rules~~ goals for it are as follows:

A.) Different outfit for each day (maybe if I get lucky I can turn it into the 30 for 30 like I had originally planned... but for now, it's going to be 20 for 20!)
B.) Get 8 hours of sleep each night... This means I will need to hustle out of class and shut my mouth when I get home! I'm such a "Chatty Kathy"!

C.) Run/Jog 1 mile every day, and walk the one mile with Daphnie on Sundays

D.) Have at least 15,000 steps every single day (I have the worlds greatest pedometer to help me out!)

E.) Invest in some sugar-free gum for my mad sugar cravings

F.) High-protein, low-carb, gluten-free diet to help with my stomach "issues". ahem. Awkward.

Moving on...

I went to the doctor this past week (The bomb dot com, AND he gave me samples... who doesn't love samples?!?) and everything is good and looks normal! Both of my doctors are thinking that my sickness is just a direct result from stress... which I need to learn to control better. Honestly, I'm thinking if I didn't accept so much on my plate things would be better, but they are what they are right now... so I'm going to do my best!

I found a great app for my phone that did all of the meal planning for me, so I don't need to worry! Pedro and I will be eating some gluten-free Lime Chicken Taco's this week {you can find the recipe HERE} which are delish! On Saturday Pedro went on a 5-mile hike out at the Sanddunes {super proud of him} and I was a little jealous at the same time... just because he said the weather was beautiful and I think that would be so much fun! Maybe next time!? Or a fun day-date?!?

I think that's it! I'm for sure going to be taking this DAY by DAY because I know I will have things come up! I am hoping to be able to go jogging in the mornings, and then maybe do some weight training on the weekends at my parents house. If I find an hours worth of time during the week, for sure I'd love to start my P90x program. It is absolutely amazing.

Reasons Why #18

2011-03-04T12:15:00.000-07:00

Reason #18 Why I Love El Pedro

Dear Pedro,
I love your little boy grin, it shows pure delight.

Love,

2011-03-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

{one} do you wear holey jeans? if so, do you buy them that way?Nope...

{two} do you get a full 8 hours of sleep per night?I really try to - at least 7 hours or else I get sick very easily!

{three} what’s your favorite way to eat an oreo?I love to eat oreos! Hahaha... sometimes I split them in half, but usually just biting into it... like a normal cookie.

{four} do you wear shoes in your house?Yes, for the most part, or at least my socks or soft soled slippers. My feet freeze!

{five} who would you call first if you won the lottery?Pedro. For sure!

{six} have you ever been in a food fight?I don't think I ever have! Weird.

{seven} do you snore?I do when I get sick. Sad but true story

{eight} do you know how fast you type?Well, I am a receptionist, so I can crank it out sometimes... I don't remember the last test I took to tell me the exact WPM... So I suppose the answer is "Technically, NO, I do not know how fast I type, but I DO know how fast it sounds!

{nine} can you do a headstand (without using a wall)?Yes. Thank you dance/drill team!

{ten} how do you like your popcorn?Yummm... Homemade is the absolute best with butter and salt! I love to eat peanut butter m&m's or hot tamales in between....

Vibram Five Fingers

2011-02-27T23:02:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow morning I'm going running. I really wish I was going in these:

They would be amazing. My little brother Devyn with a Y LOVES them. Aaaand, naturally, since he is my brother, I love him and therefore, I love the Vibram Five Fingers Shoes.

Especially when they are in hot pink.

This next week is going to be cuh-razy.

I can hardly wait, so bring it!

{I hope},

Envigorating: Nike Throwdown

2011-02-26T22:17:00.000-07:00

While Pedro was watching the Pursuit of Happiness I was writing my lesson and doing homeplay... This commercial came on and I absolutely LOVE it!

Reasons Why #571

2011-02-24T02:06:00.001-07:00

Reason #571 Why I Love El Pedro

Dear El Pedro,
I love how when you get hyper, you kind of go out of control, but you keep saying, "I'm sorry" but its just so funny to watch. You're so cute.

When we are hyper TOGETHER... now that... THAT is EPIC.

Wee Bit of Me Wednesdays

2011-02-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

{one} do you always wear your seatbelt in the car?Yeppers!
{two} do you crack your knuckles?It's an awful habit, but yes I do... not ALL the though. Pedro pops my toes. Was that TMI? Bleh.
{three} what is your favorite flavor of gum?OoOoOh I LOVE cinnamon but I'm usually chewing minty gum...seems fresh{er}
{four} what is your favorite piece of jewelry that you own?My wedding ring and a necklace I got from F21
{five} who is your best friend?Anna and The Brookes. That could sound like a band-name. Also: My madre, Pedro, and Auzzi. Well, just see THIS post.
{six} what is your favorite smell?Clean Laundry! Or freshly baked bread....
{seven} what is your favorite lunch meat?Roasted Chicken
{eight} do you still have your tonsils?Nope, I had them removed in May 2008. Super fun experience, not going to lie.
{nine} do you untie your shoes before you take them off?Tennis Shoes - Yes. Other Shoes - not so much, no.
{ten} what color is your car?One is Red (my car) One is Gray (our car)

Guest Speaker: Mary Burlingame

2011-02-22T00:34:00.002-07:00

Guest Speaker : Mary Burlingame

 MY DREAMS. 

I had the privilege and opportunity to listen to guest speaker Mary Burlingame. When she began speaking to us, she asked us to write down our weight, height, and gender. I will be honest now, I lied about my weight. She then asked us to throw our sticky notes with information at her. She went on to explain that these didn’t matter. These “things” such as our weight, height or gender don’t define who we are, or how successful we will be. That is determined by us as individuals. She then asked us to write down our dreams. I have always been a dreamer and a believer. I believe in dreaming. I decided while Mary was speaking to us that it is okay for me to set big goals and have big dreams. Otherwise, I think my dreams and goals have been conservative. She told us to write them down and to share them. I now carry with me my dreams, and I am planning on making them printed out onto a business - type card size so I can REALLY see them. I thought I would share what my big and crazy dreams are:

1. I want like to be rich. I don’t have a number, or a desire for an amount of income, but I am sure it’s in the triple digits. I would love to be able to live comfortably, in a large home on a nice land of property. I would like to not worry about bills or money, but still be frugal and conservative with what I spend because that is in my nature.

2. I want to earn my bachelor’s degree, from Brigham Young University - Idaho. I still do not know exactly what I would like to graduate with, but I am certain it will either be Interior Design, Graphic Design, Photography, Psychology, or Nursing. I love learning. I also want to learn more about makeup, and graduate with my esthtician’s license.

3. I want to fulfill my dream in education. I would love to someday be a learning leader in a night school cosmetology program. I feel it would be a rewarding job that would provide the stability I need in my life, but allow me the freedom to work in my own salon.

4. I want to open up my own salon franchise, and then have my own private salon in my own for my very personal friends and guests. I want my salon franchise to be known nation-wide, and I do not want to call it a salon, but rather a studio.

5. I would like to make more money on my blog. I love blogging, and I have always really enjoyed reading and writing. I do make a little bit of money currently on my blog, but I want to make enough that I could pay for my “play money” while I am in school or better yet, to put away for savings.

6. I would really like to live debt-free and pay for everything with cash. I want to have a comfortable savings for a rainy day, and have excellent credit.

7. Home is where the heart is. More than anything, I want to be a mother to my future children. I think that being a cosmetologist will be my creative outlet to the world, but I first and foremost want to be a mother.

I know that I can achieve anything I put my mind to, I have always believed that. I do not doubt myself or my abilities, I just know I need a constant reminder and determination to reach where I would like to end up. I believe you should live life to the fullest, because you only live once. I also believe in proving other people wrong (when the doubt you) so just you wait, I’m going to see how many of these I can achieve, if not all of them. If I had to give myself a deadline, I would say I’d like to have done all of these by the time I am 50. I would love to retire by then.

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Makeup: Beauty Tip

2011-02-21T01:31:00.000-07:00

I've been learning even more about skincare and makeup (and the importance of Microdermabrasion... if you want more info on that-send me an email!)I LOVE makeup. LOVE it. I thought I would share with you a FABULOUS make-up artist that does free education classes online (that's pretty much what her youtube videos are). It doesn't get any better than that! Her name is Kandee Johnson, and not only is she super cute and energetic, she has wicked talent as well. Here is a video for FLAWLESS FOUNDATION. She helps put makeup in perspective of artwork, and it makes getting ready FUN (for me anyway) every single day. Think of your face as a canvas... and enjoy her video! Go send her some love and follow her blog / youtube for more classes!

Isn't she wonderful and motivational?

Reflection: Born This Way

2011-02-20T23:03:00.002-07:00

Sunday is a beautiful day for reflection and contemplation to where I'm at in life. Even as I type this out, I really have other things I should be doing, but I feel like I should write what is on my mind before I forget it. Forgive me if it makes absolutely no sense... it will to me. I always tell Pedro that I was not born to be a "fence-sitter", and it's true. I don't believe I was born to be a half-way person, or I would be just setting myself up for failure. I could do great doing either way, right or left, just not stay in the middle. I mean this in all aspects of my life, and to me, it's applicable in many different ways. Lately though, I've felt a little bit like I have been a fence-sitter though, but it has been unintentional. It almost feels like a rut I've been in, so I'm going to try and take charge of my own life and get off of my "fences".

Photo Credit found HERE

The funny thing is that the song "Born This Way" by Lady Gaga plays in my head over and over... hahahah which is ironic to the other song that plays in my head. On Sundays I like to listen to a song called "It's All About Your Heart" by Mindy Gledhill. It is the song that was written for and about Stephanie (Nie Nie) and is played in Nie Nie's video. If you don't know who Nie Nie is, you should check out her blog. She is an amazing woman, incredible mother, and a fighter. Stephanie Nielson is a plane crash survivor with burns over 80% of her body. This video of her makes me tear up every single time...especially the line where she says "I am Stephanie Nielson and I am not body." I wanted to share that video, because I think it is inspiring and a beautiful message of LOVE:

I believe that Stephanie isn't a "fence-sitter", either. She is so strong and steadfast in everything she does. It is people like her that encourage and inspire me to continue on the right path. Life is truly a journey, and I am going to make mistakes along the way, it is expected. I suppose my goal in life is to do my best I can, and live with no regrets. I have to take each day and live it to the fullest, and to my personal best with what I believe in and what I feel is right from wrong.

I suppose with that then I'm going to be trying a couple of new things. I'm going to be taking Kendi's 30 for 30 challenge starting on March 1st, and I'm also going to cut gluten out of my diet. I suppose essentially, I am going to also try and live my life as perfectly as possible... do the best that I possibly can in every single thing I do. I'm going to make a list this week (when I find some time) of things and qualities I want to work on. I remember learning of Benjamin Franklin and how he would track his goals. A great article on mastering his personal goals by clicking HERE. He had 13 virtues he would work on. He would take one virtue at a time and focus on that for two weeks. If he needed to, he would start over. I want to really give that a go and try it. I suppose it is very personal, but I think it will help me if I share what my personal "virtues" or goals are going to be that I work on. I am going to give alot of thought as to what I want to work on, so I will try and post on March 1st, but we'll see how the next two days go.

As a side note, I have been feeling especially self conscious lately, so I am hoping this will help. I have been overly self-conscious about my smile and about my weight. Silly, petty things, but things that I am going to change and take charge of. I'm going to get my teeth cleaned {YAY!} and pop my Invisalign aligners back in... I just have a little bit of movement and then I need to get a retainer ordered before I let them shift again.

Also - one more |side| note: I made each of those recipes I shared yesterday, and they turned out super yummy! I will post more on that later this week as well! I hope you have a great week, and have the courage to MAKE it a great week!

It's just not enough, it's too much, {that's for you MOM|WOW!}

Vegas Baby Vegas!!!

2011-02-20T01:15:00.000-07:00

What  an amazing time I had at the educational event known as Caper! The  experience was surreal and incredible. I am SO grateful for the  opportunity to have gone. A HUGE thank you to everyone who helped me get  there. I enjoyed every minute of it and would love to go again next  year. There were just under 3,000 future professionals that earned their  way to Vegas and it was such a positive vibe and energy, I absolutely  thrived on it. We had some great classes, for hair cutting AND color. I  learned how to make hair look like feathers... yes, feathers. It was,  for lack of a better word, AWESOME. I tried to take lots of photos and  video, but some of the quality of those photos and video didn't turn out  the best... so I will share with you what I do have. There was one  other future professional from Night school that went, my friend Luke.  We had a great time and loved every second of it. I never knew what a  hair show was until I went... and therein I think I found something I am  MADLY passionate about: HAIR, FASHION, mixed with DANCING? Where do I  sign up?!?!? 

Okay, enough of my gibber-jabber, here's my photos:

I tweeted and made it on the big screen! I'm 3rd one up from bottom of tweets!

Obviously NOT hair... but my DREAM wedding cake right thur! Except I'd change the top just a smidge.


Oh, that's chocolate {and Luke} NBD.

Lucy Doughty and I

Luke and I

Some photos I got from the school's website:

My one {and only} regret is that I wish I would have taken my nice camera and gotten more photos. I guess I'll have to go back next year to fix that... can't wait!

I know I will eventually have more photos to post... but until then, here's a video of our week in Vegas! 

Facepalm: FOOD!

2011-02-19T17:26:00.002-07:00

Every other Sunday Pedro and I eat dinner at my parents house... so, every other Sunday we bring over one or two dishes to share. I thought it would be fun to "spice things up" a little bit and try a couple of recipes. Only problem is that it is 5:00pm on a Saturday and I'm looking at all of the recipe blogs...they are mouthwatering - almost to a drooling extreme.

I thought I'd share with you some of my favorite recipe blogs. They are fabulous, you so should become a follower of these sites. Seriously. You'll swoon over most all of them {if not all}. You can thank me later, just don't look them up when you're hungry {especially the desserts}. Trust my advice on that one. {facepalm}

www.justcookalready.com

www.sisterscafe.blogspot.com

www.foodgawker.com

www.picky-palate.com

www.letsdishrecipes.blogspot.com/

www.annemarie-tastebuds.blogspot.com/

www.melskitchencafe.com/

www.becomingbetty.blogspot.com/

www.whatsonmymenu.blogspot.com/

www.onelovelylife.com/

www.onceuponaplate1.com/

I know I've shared a couple of these before... but it's always nice to have a refresher when you get in a cooking rut.

I'll be making this for a vegetable dish tomorrow, and then I'm going to give a try at Kevin and Amanda's BEST CHOCOLATE CAKE. EVER. as well. I usually love the recipes Amanda posts, so hopefully it goes well!!!

Oh, I'm also making these for breakfast in the morning... I have been on a hunt for a fabulous scone recipe for quite some time! I have a plan for a couple of tweaks though... if it turns out with my tweaking, I'll share that too! I'll go dig out a recipe of granola my madre made and share that {~~too~~ three?}

I can hear my neighbor singing and it's seriously scaring me. SCARING ME. Note to Pedro - that is not little Jacob playing the drums... nope, it's the mothaaa.

Little Miss Sassy

2011-02-18T20:35:00.002-07:00

BAhahahahahahaha. If you've heard me mention that Baby Dee is sassy....she really is. It was earlier tonight when El Pedro was playing with my hair and then stopped and I said "Noooo keep playing with my hair pleeease!" It was in that moment, that I realized where Daphnie gets her sass from. See for yourself:

Remember...the DRESSER????

2011-02-18T20:01:00.001-07:00

Why do I get the feeling that everyone thinks I forgot about posting the dresser? I didn't forget... it's just still not completely - complete. I have to just show you how it sits in my family room for now though... I still need to add some fabric to the middle section... and I think that should be about it!

 So to refresh your memory... 

I thought it would be fun to use BOTH handles/knobs... 

 The "during process" part of it, at least. We had to sand away two layers of crappy paint, and air it out of nasty cigarette smoke smells. Bleh. I gagged... Oh and we had to prime it... Wooowee that color is bright!

What do you think???

Maybe I should mention... the pumkins were last autumn! hahaha I PROMISE

Happy Birthday to me. Last June.