WHO ME, PESSIMISTIC?

Welcome to my random ramblings for this very fine Friday.

• I honestly can't believe that I still watch Survivor. It's like a very strong drug. I try to stay away, cause really I know it does me no good, but then I see one little commercial and BAM!! it's like I can't NOT watch. Anyhoo. The first ep I hated Russell. I mean, what kind of millionaire applies for Survivor? Apparently the bored kind. I guess his main goal going in was to show everyone just how easy it is to win, and manipulate the players. And I hated him for messing with my show that I love. Then, BAM! Episode two the guy goes looking for a hidden immunity idol (cause they've had one pretty much every season for the last 10 seasons) and whadayaknow? The guy finds it!!! Without any clues. Suddenly I'm finding myself actually rooting for Russell. What the? Well, hopefully one of the other players will catch on to him soon, cause as much fun as I'm having watching him manipulate the whole entire game, I kinda liked Survivor just the way it was.

• Lady Gaga. People can hate, and say she is crazy, but that girl in my humble opinion is an amazingly creative entertainer. And for the record, anyone who says she is a hermaphrodite needs to recognize. I hate that just because we have a female who is a successful singer and talented entertainer, she must be half man? Give. Me. A. Break.

• Speaking of people who are half man. That woman (yes. she. is.) who won that world track race? Well, all I can say is people are just sad. So she has internal testes. It's not her fault. I just feel bad that she has learned about all of this through public scrutiny. My heart aches for her. And why is it that every time someone mentions a hermaphrodite they mention Jamie Lee Curtis. Is this true? I am wondering.

• Every time someone tells me Thing 2 looks like Shiloh Pitt it makes me laugh. Does that mean I look like Angelina? I. Wish.

• I seriously LOVE Zumba. If not for the workout, then definitely for the laughs.

• Last week on my vacation I had a blast. You know this already. One thing you probably do not know, is that amongst these 10 girls I am the ONLY democrat. And well, honestly every time there was a political comment/Obama health care hateraid I shut my trap. Seriously. I swear. Just let it roll, cause really if I argued everyone of their silly stances I would have been arguing the entire time. And that my friends, isn't my idea of a vacation. But I finally broke my silence on the way back to the airport to head home. And I just about lost it. Excuse me while I step on my soapbox for a moment. Okay, where to even begin. See, this is my problem, I have so much I want to say, and defend, but it just gets all so overwhelming. I'm just saying it would have been nice to have had one other lefty out there with me. We finally just had to agree to disagree. Where I believe we as fellow human beings and citizens have a responsibility to one another, they don't. Which really isn't something we will every agree upon. Which is all fine and dandy. I do however have just one teeny tiny thing to say. All these conservative friends of mine (that I love dearly by the way) who don't feel they have any responsibility for each other (especially fiscally) better watch out when their church decides to implement the dreaded law of consecration. They thought giving away 25% was bad. Try giving away 100%. moving right along. . .

• Project runway!! Is anyone else loving this season? I'm not sure if it is because of the long absence since last season or, because of all the great talent. I guess I'll be honest, I am sorta missing Michael Kors and Nina Garcia and all their snarky comments, but really I would love me some project runway no matter what banana they've got judging. But really now, am I the only one who thought the ice queen dress was blah? Can't believe he won.

• Why is it that my kids are into "painting" my car lately? With water of course. Which makes for lovely water brush marks at child height all along my black car. Kids rule.

• Is it bad that I'm considering going inactive for a while after I get released from my calling? I'm just saying.

• I am loving having the kids in school. And watching Thing 1 read and write is absolutely fulfilling as a parent. His teacher told me he has one of the best penmanship in the class. If this is true, I am worried.

• I am considering getting extensions. Just for fun, for my birthday. Not sure I will leave them in for long, but you know how I love change. i realize this is a very silly thing to do. Consider it my midlife crisis. But I'm thinking it might just be the thing to do since I'm turning thirty in not so many weeks. This. Freaks. Me. Out.

• Our mail used to arrive around 12:30 or 1p.m. every day. Now, for some strange reason it doesn't get here until 6 p.m. I can't tell you how much this irks me.

• I realize that this blog has sorta turned into a coupon blog. And I hate that. But I've started doing this whole coupon thing for my grocery shopping. And I have to tell you, it rocks. I really am saving money. And don't tell hubs, but it's kinda fun to see.

• as happy as I am the EMC library is getting a much-needed overhaul, it is turning out to be very inconvenient. All the construction in this city is about enough to drive me absolutely batty.

• Glee. I. heart. very. much. this. show. Thanks to Kris, I have been enjoying this show for the past few weeks now, and I think it just might be total and complete genius. Getting pregnant through a hot tub? Hilarious.

• Is it possible to be addicted to solitaire? I find it the perfect thing to do while waiting in endless carpool lines. Sure I could be reading the bible or something, but nah, it is only the carpool line after all.

• i love these little glimpses of fall. The slightly brisk weather, the sun setting earlier, sweatshirts, jeans, college football, the leaves on the mountain changing. Oh yes. Hello autumn, i think i love you.

• Don't you just hate posts without pictures? Happy Friday Everyone!

THE REASON MY POSTS HAVE BEEN FEW AND FAR BETWEEN

So, last week I went to North Carolina with 8 of my best girlfriends from High School to visit our friend Ashley who moved there last year. It was so nice to just get away with the girls. I seriously have not laughed so hard in such a long time. We had an incredible time. No kids, no hubbys, just total and complete getaway. We did a crap-load of traveling, laughed the entire day, stayed up way too late, and played on the beach non-stop.

Thanks to Hubs for making this all possible, and thanks to the girls for reminding me just exactly how crazy I used to be before I had kids. I love you gals!

Two deals every Tuesday. Or Wednesday. Depending on the busy-ness and lazy-ness factor.



Okay, this first one is good at Fazoli's. All you have to do is go HERE and click at the top of the page and register your e-mail for this free coupon. Just a little tip--I have an e-mail I set up just for all the stores, and sites that ask for an e-mail. So I don't get all the spam and junk e-mail to my regular e-mail.

This next one is for Tanger Outlets in Park City. Purchase a pink card ($1) at customer service and recieve 25% off a single item. For more info and to find participating stores, go HERE.

And, because I'm a day late, and because I love my bloggers, I have a third deal-e-o for ya. Have you heard of restaurant.com ? Well, it's this fabulous little site where you plug in your zip code and find all the participating restaurants in your area that have put in gift certificates for discounted rates. And until 9/27 you can get an extra 70% off!

For example, yesterday I purchased a $25 gift certificate for The Sandbar Mexican Grill downtown on Pierpont for $3.00, a $10 gift certificate for Rocky Mountain Pizza for $1.20, and a $25 gift certificate for Sugarhouse BBQ for $3.00. I spent $7.20 and got $60 in gift certificates!!

All you need to do, is put in your zip, brows through the restaurants available, find one you like, read the fine print (for example to get a $10 gift certificate you must spend $20), add it to your cart, be sure to plug in the code TREAT for your extra 70% off, pay for it, and then print the coupons at home and enjoy your cheap dinner out.

AND I THOUGHT I'D SEEN IT ALL

Are you pregnant?

Are you impatient?

Fabulous.

Then, I've got just the thing for you. There is a new product on the market claiming to tell you the gender of your unborn baby with an accuracy of 90% at 6 weeks!!!

i know right, that is absolutely insane!!

and just for fun, this urine predictor test turns your urine pink for a girl, and blue for a boy. Awwwwww. Precious. Pink urine.

Remember the good old days when people had to wait until the baby was born? {sigh}. Then it was 20 weeks with ultrasound. Then it was fetal photos at 14. And now it's six. Six weeks? Absolutely incredible.

You can pick up the urine gender predictor test at a Wallgreens near you.

KNOWONDER!

Have you seen this new magazine? Well, let me tell you, it ROCKS!!!

Knowonder is an absolutely amazing parent & children magazine. It's a new publication debuting this month. It is a 132 page magazine filled with stories, art and articles. Knowonder promotes early literacy by putting a story you can read aloud to your children for every single day of the month in each issue. We all know that reading to your children is the very best way to promote and maintain early reading. And now you have something new and different to read every single day! Great for story time or bedtime. Then they have an area devoted to art. Children's artwork from around the country. The last section of the magazine is devoted to articles about parent-centred issues, craft ideas and great tips. But my favorite thing about this magazine, apart from it being FREE, is that they encourage parents to submit stories and pictures of their children's artwork. Always wanted to see your story in print? Send it on in!

You can pick up Knowonder at your local library, or any of these locations absolutely FREE!!! That's right friends, FREE! Just one more way this blogger is trying to look out for you in this crazy economy. Or, you can also register at their site HERE and subscribe to a free digital subscription sent to your inbox each month. You also can have them send you a subscription to your home if you are willing to pay for shipping ($24 a year), but since I'm always at the library, I figure I'll just pick mine up for free. Yay! FREE!!!

So, if ya get a sec, check it out. I promise it won't disappoint!

TWO-FUR TUESDAY

So, the other day I went to Costco, and they had the Christmas crap out already. Seriously. It's September!!! But, instead of getting all grumpy about the sitch, I decided to jump on the bandwagon. Maybe it isn't such a horrible idea to start the Christmas shopping extravaganza a little early. Hopefully these two deals will be a great start!

Have you always wanted a CHI hair straightener but were turned off by the high price tag? Don't worry, cause I've got the deal for you. Chi straightener reg. $190 today's price: $65.73!!!!

No joke. Go here quickly, cause I'm sure they won't last long. Not in the market for a hair straightener? Then grab one for a friend or loved one for Christmas. Trust me, they will LOVE you for your thoughtfulness, and have no idea you saved a bundle ($124.27 to be exact!)

Next up? Crocs. Love em. Who doesn't? Apparently a lot of people. But for those of you who do, they've got a little sale going on now. Buy one, get one free, plus free shipping. That's 50% off for those of you who aren't so great at math.

Go here to steal this deal. Again, great gift. Again, I'm thinking Christmas. How sweet would it be to have all your Christmas shopping done before October?


You. Are. Welcome. Happy Shopping friends!

COUPON LOVE @ NAPTIME

One good thing about the recession eh? Lot's of great deals to be had. Here are some of the latest.


Apparently for this promo, you must sign up for a frequent movie card or something at AMC. Go here for all the deets.

20% off at Bath and Body works. Print the coupon or use code 1207 when checking out.

This one is for the locals. Gap outlet only peeps.

jamba. Print it out and take it with you on your next visit.

you are welcome. Enjoy!

PREP

I just got finished reading this book, and let me just say for the record, that I really enjoyed it. I hesitated posting about it because of it's controversial content, but I just can't stop thinking about it. And that is how I know it's not just a good book, but a great book. If it leaves you thinking, wanting more, and wishing there was a sequel. A little warning though friends, if books had a ratings system, I'm sure this would be rated R. There is strong language and sex so if you decide to read this book, be prepared for that.

That all being said, from the moment I opened this book I was completely and totally sucked in. I read it start to finish in about 48 hours. Needless to say, I'm fairly tired, but feel as though the lack of sleep was well worth it.

Love her or hate he,r Lee Fiora is the epitome of teenage angst. I loved Curtis Sittenfeld's writing. So real, and honest. Took me right back to those awkward teenage years. And as much as I never want to live those years again, I enjoyed my 2 days back in teenage hell. Plus, I found it somewhat insightful since I had a best friend head off the boarding school at 14, and I could for the life of me, never understand why. And although, I couldn't relate to all of Lee's experiences, I found the author's writing style, and prose absolutely intriguing. And I can't wait to start in on another one of her books.

So yeah, if you are looking for a new read, give it a go, just don't say I didn't warn you.

PREP

by Curtis Settenfeld

I REMEMBER

I_LIVE_DELIBERATELY

For the next 28 days I've committed myself to living deliberately.

Do you want to live deliberately too? Then head on over here and get in on the challenge.

PUDDLE JUMPERS WAREHOUSE SALE

Hey y'all! This post is for all my local mommy readers out there. Holler atcha. So, I'm sure you've all heard of or seen these cute shoes for girls and boys. They are called Puddle Jumpers. Thing 2 has been wearing them since she was born almost, and I love them. Not only are they adorable (who doesn't like polka dots?!) but they are really well made and comfy. At least I think so.

Anyhoo, Puddle Jumpers is a local company and if you live in the great salt lake, then you are in luck. Puddle Jumpers is having a warehouse sale today ONLY. Here is the info. For some reason it wouldn't let me just post the flier. But here is the jest of it:

End of Summer Warehouse Sale!!

2681 S. Preston Street (1935 E.) 801.487.1050

Thursday September 10, 9:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.

infants//sandals//maryjanes//toddler boys

$5-$25

ALL SALES FINAL!!

cash, check & cards accepted.

So I hit the sale yesterday at 1 p.m.(it was yesterday and today) and the selection was still pretty good. Lots of sandals. A pretty good selection of maryjanes. The boys stuff goes up to size 7 or 8 toddlers. The girls runs from infant to kids size 6. They also had a bunch of those soft soled infant shoes for $5 (boys and girls).

Happy Shopping!

BARRY LOUIS POLISAR: PART TWO

So, you probably didn't know this about me, but generally I wouldn't describe myself as lucky. For example, back when I was a kid and they actually put toys in cereal boxes (remember that?) it NEVER fell into my bowl. Ever. Course that coulda been cause one of my grubby brothers dug it out before I could, but that's besides the point.) And I've never really won anything. Ever. Not even a measly online blog giveaway. Honestly. Do you feel sad for me? Well, you should.

But my luck concerning celebrity sightings is even unluckier. I mean, hasn't everyone met at least one celeb? Maybe while you were at the airport, or in an elevator or something? Right. Sure you have. Cause you are lucky. And I'm not. But honestly, for the life of me, I can't think of a single solitary celebrity I've ever met. I mean, I've admired them from afar. Concerts, and that kind of thing. Oh and I guess one time at Porcupine I sat a table away form Apollo Anton Ono. (And now I'm wondering if that even counts. He's a celeb right?) At least I think it was him. Or his look-a-like. I didn't ID him. Oh and the night of senior prom I could have sworn that I sat a table away from that guy who used to do those I Can't Believe It's Not Butter advertisements. What's his name? Fabio or something. But again. I guess it's entirely possible that it coulda just been a guy with long blond hair.

But you get the point. My celebrity interaction is pathetic.

And my lack of celebrity luck goes even further than never meeting one. Actually I've missed meeting celebs multiple times. For example one night while I was vacationing in Hawaii with my friend Jill, I wasn't feeling so well, so I decided to stay back at the hotel rather than go out. And yep, you guessed it. They ran into a celeb while out and about. Apparently it was the older brother on The Wonder Years. Wayne. Well, I coulda kicked myself. I mean, Wayne!! Man. I mean, I've never even met a local newscaster or weather guy. And you think that living here I'd have run into like Ed Smart or Dooce or something. But no such luck. Even local celebs are beyond me.

So, knowing all this you can imagine my thrill, wait, no my complete and total elation at what I found in my inbox at 7:43 a.m.

A e-mail from Barry Louis Polisar!!!!! Really! I am not lying. Although given the information I just supplied you with, it might seem totally plausible that I would be. But I'm not. I mean, sure I guess I didn't actually meet him, but he, or maybe it was his assistant, or like his assistants assistant, but someone that has surely met Barry Louis Polisar e-mailed me this morning to thank me for my post. Seriously. I mean, What?!!! Who does that? Apparently very thoughtful, talented musicians. Or their very thoughtful and prompt assistants.

And I was glowing. I mean, am glowing. And then I got all nervous and re-read my silly post again. What did I say? Or didn't I say? And instantly I was embarrassed that I didn't give photo credit. I always forget that. But when do you really think the person you are writing about will actually read it? It's totally amazeballs people.

And just because I know one of my lame brothers is going to comment that I'm so sad and pathetic for making up this post, I am going to copy and paste the entire e-mail here. As proof of my truth.

Hi Amy,
There is no anonymity on the web! Thanks for those kind words.
I thought you (and your readers) might like to sample my songs and wanted you to know that I have them all on my site for free: http://www.barrylou.com/currentCDs.html
Each CD you click on--including the new Tribute Album that is coming out soon--will give you samples, so you can waste hours of time listening.....
Happy listening!
Barry Louis Polisar
==========================================
Author Visits, Books & Music for kids and smart adults
http://www.barrylou.com
Not just Barry's song from the JUNO film
==========================================

I mean, you see that right? It seems legit enough. I mean sure he didn't actually say my name, but he typed it. And surely that counts for something. I mean really.

So, because I am actually totally impressed with this guy, and his thoughtfulness I decided to give him one more shout out.

His name is Barry. He writes incredibly witty and funny children's music. And you can find all his albums right here. www.barrylou.com.

And because I think it's cool he, or his assistant's assistant, took the time out of his day to shoot a quick e-mail of thanks, I'm going to let you know how cool it might be to give Barry merchandise to all your loved ones this Holiday Season. (Yeah, we're on a first name basis) I mean, how great would it be to give a totally hilarious children's album to all your friends and family with kids. Or a thoughtful children's book? Sounds better than a stuffy old sweater-set right?

Seriously. Do yourself a favor. Check him out. And Barry, if you're reading this. Thanks for making my day. It's nice to see there are people out there who can appreciate a good plug. Oh, and good luck with the new album!

BARRY LOUIS POLISAR

photo credit via flickr: Sierra Polisar

Did you know that our kids go to bed at 7 p.m.? Yeah, they really, really do. This is not a joke. It is the honest truth. It's also the best thing I ever did since having kids. One day Thing 1 stopped napping. It sucked. And I cried. Then, because Thing 2 could hear her brother supposidly have all sorts of fun without her, she decided to stop napping as well. Only the thing was, er rather is, my kids get up at 7 a.m. no matter what. If we put them to bed at 9, up at 7. Put them to bed at 11, up at 7. Put them to bed at 6, up at 7. And well, the thing is, they are just nicer to be around when they get more sleep. And putting our kids to bed at six just seems wierd, so we put them to bed at 7. And it is my most favorite thing. I get to hang out with my hubby all night, you know talking about things other than boogers and spy weapons. It's nice. And then I also get happy children in the morning. It's just awesome.

Anyhow, this is not what this post is about. But I guess it is sorta. Well, since we have lots of free open evenings, one night we decided to mix things up a bit and rent a RedBox. Thrilling, right? Well, it's only a buck, and well, it's a buck. So, I reserve the movie online and of course send Hubs out to get it, only he comes back with cookie dough icecream and no movie. Ugg. At least he knows the icecream would help. So, what to do? We decided to pop in JUNO. Which we own. And if you haven't yet seen this movie, I just don't know what to say to you. I mean, honestly? Are you for real. Cause you really need to see it homeskillet. Just trust me. So many great lines. Everytime I see it I love it even more. And since I dressed up as Juno McGuff for Halloween last year, I feel a sort of kinship with her. So, it's simply just awesome. And as we were watching the movie, I had completely forgotten how much I LOVE the soundtrack. And in particular the song in the opening credits. In case you've forgotten, I'll refresh your memory.

All I Want Is You - Barry Louis Polisar

And well, it's great isn't it. So, I got to looking and oh, that man up there? That's the guy that wrote that little ditty you just enjoyed. His name is Barry Louis Polisar. And apparently he is a really talented writer of childrens songs and books. And well, thats just awesome. Cause kids rock. And people who write for them rock even more. And so then I went to itunes. And downloaded a bunch of his albums. And my kids L.O.V.E. them. How could they not, with songs like:

Don't Put Your Finger Up Your Nose

My Brother Threw Up On My Stuff

I've Got A Teacher, She's So Mean

Underwear (personal fav)

We listen to them, and giggle together. And are happy. I love his catchy tunes, silly lyrics, and general make-you-smile-music. For Example:

Donuts - Barry Louis Polisar



Pure Brilliance right? Heck, I love a good banjo, harmonica, and guitar set to funny words. Who doesn't.



So, go ahead. Check him out if ya'd like. I promise you won't be sad you did.

THE PETTICOAT PROJECT

Hey Bloggers. I told you I was back. And this little gem is a goodie.

So, as I said in my last post, I LOVE blogging. Really. Pretty much everything about it. Reading about various (from good friends to pure stranger-cyber-stalking) people's lives. I love hearing about their thoughts, their ideas. What they like, what they dislike. What makes them tick. It's simply just fascinating to me. Perhaps this is why I find that I enjoy almost every single reality show I've ever watched. Even the ridiculous ones. (holla to Tori & Dean) ;)

Well, I've got this friend. And she used to have this blog. That I loved. I mean, L.O.V.E.D. reading. Every time my trusty google reader would tell me she had updated I found myself eagerly looking forward to her new and insightful posts. I enjoyed partaking in her journey. Commenting on her struggles, her passions, her interests. Then this friend embarked on what might arguably be the most important life change ever. Motherhood. No simple task, right? And did I mention that this friend, not only is a fabulous, fabulous mother, but also a licensed clinical social worker? Well, she is. And if you need a good therapist, call her cause she inconjunction with starting her family, also just started a fabulous new business called The Healing Group. But that's not what I'm writing about today. No, today I'm telling you all that my good friend Kris, after taking a little break and navigating that fine line between personal and professional, is BACK IN THE GAME. The blogging game that is. And well, I couldn't be more thrilled. When she told me this news, I'm pretty sure I didn't stop smiling for a good full day. Absolutely fantastic. So, if you are in the market for a new blog to read that is authored by an amazing mother, therapist and wife with a unique point of view, then you are in for a treat. Add her to your google reader, and check her out here!

You. Are. Welcome.

I'M BAAAAACK.

Okay, well. I guess I owe you all an apology. I've been pretty crappy about updating this ole blog of mine as of late. And for that I apologize. It's just that I've been incredibly busy. Which isn't a bad thing I suppose. Just means I've been out living life, without a moment of spare time to blog about it.

And well, when I saw this picture of this swing, it summed up so perfectly in my mind what I have been feeling about my lack of writing/blogging. It's like all summer long I was outside playing. Enjoying life. Doing the monkey bars. Riding down the slide, climbing up the ladders, riding down the fire pole. And the swing was there. Always in the background. And the swing is fun, but it's also work. Fun work, but work nonetheless. Sometimes it was if that swing this summer was just begging to be swung, and other times, I was perfectly content to be standing on still ground. Sometimes I longed for that swing, but couldn't find a spare second, and other times it was as though I was glad to be playing something else. And you see, I love swinging. It's exhilarating. And fun. And you get the most amazing sense of freedom from swinging. But I was just too enamoured with the other things on the playground this summer. Good things. Fun things. But don't worry friends. Cause I'm here. And more ready than ever to get back on that swing.


Okay, sorry about the cheesy analogy. I just re-read that and it's pretty lame, but does describe pretty accurately the mixed feelings I've had about blogging lately. So, probably against my better judgement I'm going to go ahead and leave that swing bit up. Sorry.

So, anyhoo, I've got a long list of blogging topics I've been throwing around in my head, waiting until just the right time to share them. And with both kids in school each day now(Hallelujah!!) that means more time to do what I love. Write. Think. Blog. And read and comment on your blogs too of course. Naysayers say what you will. Blogging is fun, and frankly I've missed it. Funny how it's become almost a break for me. Escape through blogging. Hmmmm.


Anyhow. I'm back. Just wanted to let you know. Stay tuned. Fun is about to ensue.