Naptime Nostalgia

RANDOMNESS

2011-05-17T14:28:00.002-06:00

So, I thought I'd do a throwback on this old blog of mine just for fun. Sort of interested if anyone actually reads this thing anymore. I might start blogging here now and again for fun. maybe. maybe not. depends on my mood. and the day. and who am I kidding? I probably won't so don't expect it. Was that last sentence for me or you? hmmm. things that make you go hmmmm. Remember that song. yeah. awesome.
so far this random is less than stellar.
why is it snowing on May 17th? I mean really. it's unnecessary. we already have a bit of a flood issue going on here, and I feel like the weather Gods are ignoring my constant bantering about how great the sun is. cause, lets me honest. it is. all warm and glowy and stuff.
so many things to random blog about. but where to actually start, now that I've got the perfunctory weather post out of the way?
how about we begin with the fact that school is out in less than 3 weeks. My sister said less than 14 actual school days. Is this making anyone else hyperventilate? And not in a good way? Like in a what-on-earth-am-i-going-to-do-all-day-with-thing1 type of way? Yikes. Don't get me wrong, I love my kids, but lets be honest here people, sometimes they are annoying.
So I started a good-behavior money thing in our house to combat the annoying-ness. Basically I award non-annoying children mom bucks for good behavior. And it has been going great, except I didn't know that both of my children got my husbands saving/cheap/hoard-money gene. They both have about ten thousand mom bucks, and I just want them to cash them in already cause I'm running low on my monopoly money. And it's not like I have lame things to cash them in for people. Good things. like late-ups, happy meals, red box movies, tv shows, extra books at bed, a candy bin and all sorts of other things I hope to bribe good behavior out of them with. Only I didn't really count on them being cheapskates. Maybe if I had commercials for stuff mom-bucks could buy on nick jr. Then they would be all over it. About daily I hear about stuff seen on a commercial that I just can not live without.
really bummed zev & justin didn't win amazing race. also sorta bummed Boston Rob finally won survivor. I mean really. you should win after playing it 4 times. Congrats for beating a bunch of stupid rookies. P.S. nothing makes me madder in survivor than idiots who play for 2nd place.
sorta not-so-sad to know that Thing 1's baseball is almost over. I think we've won maybe like 2 games. I had no idea that Little League was such a big deal. The 3 and 4 games a week was enough to do me in. Love watching him play, when he's not making sand castles out at 2nd base that is. He is a great little hitter, just not sure this is his sport. I forget how much standing around there is in baseball. Thinking soccer might be a better match.
weeded the entire backyard last Saturday. It looks so nice. Wish i could be motivated to put the petunias in the window boxes. Sometimes I think i missed my calling on earth as a Sloth.
Is it just me, or does there seem to be a bit of a baby explosion as of late? 5 or 6 new babies in my ward this month, plus 2 of my close friends just had babies, and another two are preggers. Is it bad that every time I hear of another one arriving I just sorta cringe for the parents? Sleepless nights, zombie days, spit up shirts and poopy diapers. Fun, fun fun. Needless to say, I am enjoying Little Mister who will turn 1 in June. So happy those early days are behind us. Could not be more happy about this. Newborn till about 6 months just sorta sucked. But now that he is mobile, able to entertain himself, and express himself we are just happy as can be around here. Oh how I love children that grow up. One day they will be teenagers and I might ask if you will let me move in with you, but until then I will just enjoy them not being infants.
so we took the kids on our very first solo vacation (meaning no friends or other family tagged along), not to long ago. And what to say, well, hmmm. it was interesting. And we learned a lot. Mostly what not to do next time. like: don't bring a 9 month old who crawls all over the disgusting hotel floor and then sticks his hands right in his mouth. Also: splurge a little and get some nicer accommodations. Comfort inn did include a free breakfast, however it grossed me out and made me feel like an animal. Other things we learned: 4 or 5 days is plenty long. there will be no relaxing. ask for a room away from the pool. sea world is awesome. San Diego safari park is even more awesome. leave the kids at home. oh wait.
hubs and I got called as a Ma and Pa for pioneer trek this summer. We actually are both really excited, which is surprising considering that we will be pushing handcarts, wearing ridiculous clothing, and sleeping in separate tents on the ground. Did I mention we will be celebrating our 10th anniversary over trek? I always dreamed we would go somewhere exotic and amazing for our ten year, but I never imagined it would be church owned property in Idaho surrounded by 15 teenagers none of which will be wearing deodorant. awesome, right? Just know, that I have testimony. So strong that I will forgo an exotic week long vacation in Fiji. Not strong enough though to leave my toothbrush behind. It will be coming on that handcart people.
why is there a random cat in my backyard? Thing 2 just yelled. . ."Our pet cat is back!" So many things wrong with that sentence people. Back? Pet? CAT!?
One of the things I really, really, really love about our recent remodel is the new carpet. Our old carpet was the kind that didn't really show vacuum lines. I really like vacuum lines.
I hope you are watching Modern Family by now. If not, I just have one thing to say, What is wrong with you?!
Did anyone else add "Visit New Zeland" to your bucket list after watching the Biggest Loser eps where they went there? wow. Also, Rulon sucks.
Been thinking lately. Came across this, and having been muling it over the past few days. So, I ask you. "Bloggers, What is my thing?"
I've been trying to make a concerted effort (for a uber-scientific study I invented and am conducting) to get more sleep. For me, with Little Mister waking up each morning around 6, this means being in bed, with the lights off, by 10. Wow this has been an adjustment. Not sure what my findings are just yet, but wow. It's been hard. When did I turn into such a night owl?
Can't tell you how much I am enjoying the final season of Friday Night Lights. It is bitter sweet. I look forward and love them each so much, but it's also so sad knowing there will be no more. Am I the only one, when faced with a problem asks, "What Would Tammy Taylor Do?" Or WWTTD? Seriously, so helpful in all aspects of life. But really, no more Tim Riggins?
You know how some people think their dryer eats socks? I think my closet eats hangers.
Thing 2 is such a joy lately. I really lucked out with this one. Sure she is a little bossy and know-it-all-y (can't imagine who she got that from!), but her personality is just awesome. She loves to be good. Can be kept completely entertained with a coloring book and a few markers, and thoroughly enjoys being a big sister. She is growing up so much and it freaks me out. She is beautiful beyond words-- honestly -- (not just saying this cause I'm her mom. She looks nothing like me. ) and this scares me to death. I want her to know that she is more than her beauty. She is incredibly smart. And witty. And kind. But how to emphasize this in our looks-obsessed culture?
have I said lately just exactly how much I love pina colada sobe? Just one sip, and I am magically transported to the beaches of Hawaii. Vacation in that lovely 2 dollar bottle.

and there you have it. Lots of random crap. if you made it here, give your self a gold star and a big round of applause. You are awesome. Thanks for reading.

RANDOM RANDOMNESS

2010-10-05T12:37:00.002-06:00

Hi bloggers. Did you think I had died? Well, too bad. No such luck. I'm still here. Finally feel a little more like myself with each passing day which is nice. I feel like I have lots of stuff to blog about and am constantly thinking I should blog this or that, and then poof. No time. Baby eats it up, kids eat it up, and the Amazing Race also eats it up a bit too.
Speaking of The Amazing Race. How funny was that first episode with the watermelon in the face? Right in the kisser. Pretty much said that four billion times since. So hilarious. I was dying. I was shocked though that there wasn't more lasting damage to her face. Lucky girl. Also, is it just me, or does that show make anyone else anxious? I swear I need to put on an extra layer of deodorant before I watch.
So, I finally decided to get serious about losing this baby weight. So I signed up for Weight Watchers. Again. Only this time it's free. Yep, free. One of my previous times in which I gained seventy pounds and then lost seventy pounds I kept on going even after I met my goal and got lifetime status. Which I thought was totally useless. Until now. Lucky for me, since I'm nursing and a lifetime member, it's free. And not like sorta free if I pay for online or some crap like that. But really free. I just had to get a note from the doc stating I was solely nursing and they comped me for a year. I just hope it doesn't take that long to get all the weight off. Sure I could just follow the program at home by myself since I'm so well versed in the whole point stuff by now, but honestly there is just something for me about being accountable, and going and actually weighing in. I'm a lot more honest about what I eat. Plus it helps that I downloaded an app for my phone for .99 cents that lets me track my points. Total convenience. WW wanted to charge me like an extra $15 bucks a month to use their app to track points. Um, no thanks. Lucky for me there are all sorts of talented cheap people out there willing to rip other people off and make awesome helpful apps. Go them. Oh and I'm down 7 lbs., not including the 4o pounds I've already lost.
In addition to signing up for WW I started running. Then stopped. Oh how I hate running. Loathe it really. And if I'm being honest, every step I took of those marathons I ran I hated too. So, I got to thinking. What did I do as a kid to keep in shape? And mostly I just rode my bike and roller bladed and stuff. And then it hit me. Roller blades. Um, hell yes! So I got me a awesome jog stroller, picked out some sweet K2 blades, strapped on my helmet and went for a ride. And I loved it. Even though I look totally ridiculous with my blades, helmet, and stroller, I seriously get the best workout ever. I'm serious. Laugh if you want, but it's better even than running. Honestly. Must be something about having to balance on all those wheels, but I seriously sweat more when I blade than when I run. Maybe it's because I tend to slow down or walk when I get tired of running, and you can't slow down when you blade, or you'd fall over. But it kicks my ace, and has been helping in my weight loss. I've been blading every day at the park for about 2 weeks, and I'm loving it. Look like a total nerd, but loving it.
K, so have you heard about this show? Pretty sure it's one of the most amazing half hours of television out there. Yes, it's on MTV. Just ignore that fact. Go, watch it. Trust me, it's good TV. Something about the guys spirit that just gets me. I loved the autism ep. So good.
Since we are talking TV, are you watching Modern Family yet? So funny. So, so, so, funny. I'm also really loving Project runway this season. But really, when do I not love it? Go Mondo!
I'm not just a tv junkie. I like to also waste time reading as well. In fact, I just finished The Hunger Games series. Fan-double tastic. Loved the first, loved the second as much or more as the first (which I think is really rare for a trilogy), and was totally engrossed throughout and honestly read them all in about 4 days. I was the awesomest mom for those four days.
Might be addicted to Bit O' Honeys--which incidentally should really be called Lots O' corn syrup. But oh is it delicious honey flavored corn syrup.
Hating, hating fall this year. For some reason my allergies are out of control. Usually it is my favorite time of the year. Boo to you pollen.
Thing 1 is killing it in first grade. His Spanish is off the hook. He seriously can speak Spanish and it's only been a month. A few weeks ago, he translated the entire Go Dog Go book from English to Spanish. But he also has turned into a little hellion. Whoever said the two's were terrible, clearly hadn't yet hit the sixes.
Might also be addicted to Red Mango. For sure my favorite food as of late. Madagascar Vanilla and mini dark chocolate chips. Party in my mouth. Should buy stock in this company since I go there so much. Good for my belly, not good for my wallet.
Have been eyeing a few different boots for this winter. Nothing says Fall like a new pair of boots.
Was so excited to find that Costco carries my beloved bagel thins. Now that I'm on the points system these are a staple at my house. I love bagels but can't afford all the points. But these bad boys are only 1 point each. Put a little turkey (1pt) and some tomatoes (0 points) and some mustard and you've got a filling 2 point sandwich. Yum.
I'm loving all the smiles coming out of Thing 3 as of late. He is such a happy cute baby. And a total trooper always in the car picking up or dropping off his siblings, or at home being mauled by them. Love him. I think it's funny though that he is in 6-9 and 9-12 month clothing. He is 3 months. I have no idea his stats cause I don't go to the doc again until he is 4 months. I'll bet my left over baby belly he is off the charts.
Just got back from Bear Lake with the Hubrichs. Realized from here on out, vacations will no longer be relaxing now that we have 3 kids to tote along. Fun, yes. Relaxing, no.
Cut my hair. Well, bangs really, and it's been over a month and I still love them. So much. Thanks Em!
Got my new specks from Warby Parker. Love them. Went with the black Zaggs. Can't beat the price, and fit.
Blessed the baby. Hubs did great. But I'm pretty sure Bobby Sid stole the show. Best. Sacrament. Musical. Number. Ever.
Can't think of anything else to bore you with. Hope you are all having a fabulous allergy-free fall.

ADDICTED

2010-08-31T15:25:00.003-06:00

Do they have angry birds rehab? If so, I need a twelve step for this puppy. Best game to pass the nursing hours away hands down.

What is really awesome though, is when I will be stuck on a board for a few days, and finally I have to put it down for a bit so I don't go crazy. Then Thing 2 will pick up my phone, and (since we start the addictions early around here) pull up angry birds of course, and pass that board lickity split. Makes me feel awesome. A four year old can pass the board, but I can't. Sweet.

P.S. Thing 1 announced the crush is back on. And also that his life is terrible.

HOW TO BE ALONE

2010-08-20T10:35:00.002-06:00

First, turn off the music to the left. So you can hear. You'll be glad you did.

Next, listen.

Saw this on design mom. She said she found it "melancholy and beautiful". I would say the same. Being alone, to some, is a challenge. Others, like myself, crave it.

For me, today, I wish it were mine.

THE NURSERY: A TOUR

2010-08-05T15:36:00.002-06:00

So, I know it's been a while since I've blogged. Sorry about that. Life has been somewhat hectic as you can imagine. Three is pretty much kicking my ass. Sorry mom, but it's true. So, I've had some requests for some nursery pics, and so since I'm all about making dreams come true, I've decided to be a champ and post some pics. Hope you enjoy.

So, I kicked off my nursery design with grey walls. That's all I knew i wanted for sure. They are greyish brown and probably one of my favorite things about the room. Then I decided on a granny smith green to go with it. After some seriously bad attempts at sewing crib sheets I just settled on this awesome green one (which matched perfectly!) from Ikea. Love it. And at the steal of a price I bought a few --so glad I did.

Then I decided to add the number birds wall cards that I had originally picked up for Thing 2's room, but thought they were gender neutral enough to work for Thing 3's room. From there, I found this tutorial online to make a bird mobile. So I did. And it was the bane of my existence for a few days, till I figured out how to rig it up. Nightmare. If you decide to do this for some odd reason, call me first, so I can give you the behind the scenes tips on how to not drive yourself crazy.

The crib was pretty much the only thing we kept after having our other two. I seriously thought maybe I could give it to one of my brothers to use one day or something. Never imagined I'd be setting it up again first for myself, but oh well. It worked out great. Made the crib skirt. Easiest thing ever. And yeah, that's pretty much the bed corner. Still working on a plan for something above the crib. I've got a few ideas a brewin' and once I get it up and done I'll be sure to post pics.

Changing table. From Thing 2's room. Changing pad, warm wipes thing that holds our cloth wipes, and yeah. The essentials.

Little bookshelf I found at a consignment store that was a ugly shade of yellow. So I spray painted that sucker a nice green. I like it.

Reading/nursing nook. Had this green wall thing in our garage collecting dust. Think it looks good above the table I stole out of the front room. Found a lamp down in our storage room, and the fan at a consignment store. It's about 30 years old and runs great. That awesome quilt was made by my super-talented aunt Holly. And the pillow too. I picked out the fabrics--and she made them. Amazing! I wish I had that kind of talent. I keep telling her she needs to open up an etsy store.

Close-up of my killer retro turqoise fan.

Sock monkey from Tar-jay. Giraffe from a friend.

Nesting dolls I couldn't pass up from Children's Hour. Old barn hand-me-down.

And I just had to show my genius idea of hanging the book shelf off the back of the crib. I didn't want it on the wall cause I didn't want the walls to get too cluttered.

So yeah, there it is. I think it turned out great, and is even better in person. I pretty much designed it for me, since I spend literally hours in there day and night feeding le babe.

So there ya have it. Hope you enjoyed it.

Catch ya in a nother month. Joke. I'll post again soon. But don't hold your breath.

TUESDAY'S TIP: PETUNIA PICKLE BOTTOM FOR LESS

2010-07-13T18:14:00.002-06:00

So sorry to all the fellas out there, but today's tip is for the ladies. I know a lot of you ladies out there who are moms love the petunia pickle bottom diaper bags, but hate the hefty price tag that comes with the cute/functional bags. So, I found a few ways to get Petunia, just a tad cheaper.

First off, if you really love Petunia, I would say go to their website here, and sign up to be notified when they have sales in their online outlet. They usually carry discontinued stuff and certified seconds which can run anywhere from 30-50% off the retail price.

Secondly, the other day while I was perusing the Costco website, I found out that Costco online actually carries two different PPB boxy backpacks. One of them is the one pictured above. It currently sells in most stores for $169 buckaroos. At Costco you can get it for $114 here.

And thirdly, I found out from my good friend Jenny, that Target now sells a cheaper line from PPB. Don't you just love that about Target? Anyhoo, this is the Target PPB pictured above. I saw it at Target today, and it is super cute. Lots of storage compartments, and the option to wear it as a backpack, which is one of the great draws of PPB. It sells for $49, which is a much cheaper option if you love PPB. Plus, as I was looking it over, it looks to be a pretty good diaper bag, for not too expensive, if you are in the running for a new bag.

Or, you can just get lucky like I did, and find one of last years' models on sale at Nordstroms Rack.

But in all honesty, I used my PPB bag for the first two weeks and didn't really love it. Once you've got it all packed up it's pretty big. And heavy. And with two other kids, and a infant car seat, I just can't handle anything that's bulky and big. Plus it just frankly drove me batty all week. But I did give it a good try, but in the end I went back to my tried and true. Brand new tried and true, but tried and true none the less. But I know some people love them (petunia), so I thought I'd go ahead and post this anyhow. Just in case one of you might be a PPB fan.

Up next week though, I will be sure to post my personal all-time favorite baby diaper bag ever. That I would give 5 stars too, and recommend to anyone. And that's saying something after three kids, and many, many, many diaper bags. So, be sure to stay tuned for that. I'm sure you are all on the edges of your seats. Till next week friends. . . .

WHAT'S YOUR STORY?

2010-07-07T07:40:00.003-06:00

Hey Bloggers.

Good Morning!

Usually as I am perusing my google reader, I just mostly click through. Stop at my tried and true feeds, and catch up with friends via their blogs. But today, there was a post on a non-friend blog that made me stop. And boy am I glad I did. It made me think for a minute. It's titled "How To Live A Better Story." And I had to wonder, how is my story going? Is it what I thought it would be? Thirty years old, Three fabulous kids, nice house in the burbs. Is this the story I should be living? Is this the story i want to be living? The answer of course is absolutely. I mean, I created this life with the partner I love. But I have to ask myself could I do anything to make my story even better? Push myself a little? step out of my comfort zone? Take an uncalculated risk? Learn something new? Accomplish something I once, or even never thought was possible?

And so, I think I will. Shake things up a bit. Or at the very least get a get a good list going of things I'd like to do. Have. And most importantly, Be.

So, if ya get a minute, check out this quick read from Simple Mom, titled, How To Live A Better Story.

TUESDAY'S TIP: STAY IN THE SHOE DEPARTMENT

2010-07-05T20:28:00.003-06:00

So, at first, as your Tuesday's Tip, I was going to tell you not to go shopping a week after giving birth. It's very depressing. Yes. There I was formulating this post in my brain, as I walked amongst the shorts and jeans and tops in the sizes of my former self. It was then that I realized how silly, and rather almost crazy it was to be out clothes shopping this early. And then, while hubs was perusing the suits (the real reason we went shopping), I remembered that even though my waist isn't back, my feet are. And so I meandered into the shoe department. It was right then and there that I fell in love. With these little beauties pictured above.

I think they are adorable, and just what my spirit needed after the depressing jaunt through the clothing department. They are bright red. And have ruffles. And were only $32.95, thankyouverymuch.

Do you think I'm asking too much out of this shoe as to hope that the bright red-ness and ruffle toe might somehow distract the eye down away from the slightly-still-pregnant-looking-belly I've got going on, and straight to the cute shoe?

Yeah, I thought not either. So, my tip: A week or even 10 days after giving birth? Just stay in the shoe department people. Trust me on this.

FIVE

2010-06-19T07:50:00.000-06:00

. . . . more days. Yipee. Skipee.

TUESDAY'S TIP: BELLY BLISS MASSAGE

2010-06-18T19:26:00.002-06:00

Crap-dang-it. Yes, I realize it's Friday. So, sue me. But, better late than never, right?

So, I'm huge. Like really huge. Like I'm pretty sure I'm having another 9 or 10 pounder huge. Yeah. So not fun. But I've been trying really hard to stay positive, at least in the blogging world about said huge-ness. I don't want to complain, cause really, I'm super happy to be pregnant, and feel uber-blessed to be able to do this for a third time.

With that being said, let's just be honest people, the last month of pregnancy sucks. I really feel like it goes one month too long. The last month is just full of swelling, and no sleep (I literally get up about 5-10 times a night to pee or roll over from sore hips), and serious aches and pains. And since I feel like I can't really complain too much on the blog, Hubs gets most of the complaints. I mean, it's sorta his fault right? Ha. Just kidding babe. So, I guess one day all my complaining about my sciatica, and sore hips hit him, and he sent me this e-mail with a link to this lady and her little prenatal massage business. And I would not be joking when I tell you that I called her that very moment. Booked myself a massage right then and there. Huge bonus points go to hubs for taking the initiative for finding me this fabulous gift from heaven.

So, I've been twice now, and all I can say is: I wish I'd known about her sooner. Her name is Rebecca Overson, and she has magical hands people. Magical I tell you. Her company is Salt Lake Prenatal Massage or Belly Bliss Massage. She specializes in prenatal massage, labor massage, and postpartum massage. And she is awesome! And if I can talk hubs into it, I'm so going to be a regular client of hers for well, forever. Cause postpartum is like forever after you have a baby, right?

So, if you know someone who is pregnant, or you yourself are, do yourself, or your loved one a huge favor, and book them or yourself a massage. You will not regret this decision. Best thing I've done. And by the way, how awesome would it be to get this as a gift at your baby shower? Or how great would it be to give the gift of massage as a gift to a new mommy? Priceless, right? I only wish I'd known about her sooner. She also has a labor-inducing massage too, if you know someone wishing they were in labor like now. I would totally sign myself up for this pronto, but my doctor is out of town for the weekend.

So, yeah. That is my tip. Call Rebecca. Book a massage (or gift certificate). And be blissful. Oh, and tell her I sent ya.

POLAROID OF THE DAY

2010-06-13T08:19:00.002-06:00

SUMMER + PREGNANCY =

Oh man. I swear I used to have ankles. Sad, right? This was taken last week amidst the actual summer-like temps. I could go on and on and on about how much I am looking forward to having this baby on the outside, but I'll just say that this little guy is welcome to come any time. You hear that typing buddy? ANYTIME.

Here is to only having a week and half left!

TUESDAY'S TIP: SUNSCREEN CAUSES CANCER?!!

2010-06-08T17:01:00.003-06:00

So, lots of things are annoying in life. Pickle jar tops sealed shut tighter than all get out, my ankles right at this moment (larger than the size of Texas), how sometimes my cell phone doesn't send a voicemail through till the next day, Mariah Carey. You know, the sorts of things that just are irksome. Well, get ready to add another one to the list people.

They are now saying that sunscreen causes cancer! I know right? What will they say next? Seat belts are actually bad for you? Uggg. Well, according to this article almost all (only 39 out of 500 sunscreens tested were considered safe) of the most commonly used sunscreens may be accelerating cancer. And the kicker? The FDA has known this for almost 10 years, and said nothing!

Basically, if you don't want to read it (although I highly suggest you do), it says that any sunscreen with Vitamin A, or one of it's derivatives (most commonly called Oxybenzone), increases the speed at which malignant cells develop. This is all according to the Environmental Working Group which just released their study on Memorial Day. The study also says that most of the sunscreens which tout high SPFs are also a bunch of bull. Mostly because of user error, but EWG still thinks companies should better educate people on how to apply sunscreen correctly, or not be able to brag about such large SPFs.

In the end it says wearing even bad sunscreen is better than not wearing any at all, but I think since there are sunscreens out there with little to no Vitamin A and oxybenzone in them, we as consumers, and educated parents should only be putting low risk sunscreens on ourselves and more importantly our children.

So, to find the list of the best available sunscreens (without cancer-causing Vitamin A), or to see how your sunscreen stacks up to the competition click here. It will ask you for your e-mail, but in the bottom right hand corner of the box you can opt out.

So yeah, that's my tip for today. Go out and get yourself some "safe" sunscreen. Apply it properly and enjoy your summer. At least until they tell us something else in it causes cancer!

LET'S GET THIS DONE!

2010-06-06T19:38:00.004-06:00

Now, I know I haven't really talked about the tragedy that is the BP disaster of an oil spill down in the gulf, but I do have strong feelings about it. Obviously. Cause I have strong feelings about most things. But I sorta don't want to always be the Debbie Downer. You know what I'm talking about, those type of people who only blog about terrible things, or only post negative, woe is me sort of crap of their facebook statuses. (oh how this irks me. ) But really, this whole oil spill thing just really ticks me off. For lots of reasons really -- no one willing to take blame, the fact that these companies have had hundreds of egregious safety violations in the past, yet we still let them drill, the fact that thousands of people are out of work because of it, but mostly cause they can't seem to figure out how to stop the flow. Now I get that we can't just put a bandaid on it, and call it good, but really? Going on 6+ weeks and we can't figure this out?

So, when I came across this little clip, I knew I had to post it. Sure, it's not gonna stop the leak --we'll leave that to the brainiacks over at BP to solve, but at least it will help clean up the ginormous mess left in the gulf and the wetlands, and hopefully keep it from spreading any further.

You can check it out here if you'd like.

TUESDAY'S TIP: SWALLOW THE FROG

2010-06-01T09:17:00.002-06:00

So, I decided since LOST was long over, I'd have to get back to some regular old Naptime postings. So, I'm bringing back and oldie but goodie: Tuesday's Tips.

Without further ado. Here goes nothin'.

Our first Tuesday's Tip is one I read on another blog a few months back about making your mornings and days more smooth. And I've been implementing it ever since, and I have to say, it is absolutely making my life easier. And I'm all for easy, and simple, especially if it comes without a pricetag. So, this first tip is called. Swallowing the frog. Or Eating the frog. Or something like that. I can't remember exactly.

Basically it is just doing that thing you are dreading first thing in the morning. Get it out of the way, and off your mind, conscience and to-do list. For example. Maybe you dread paying the bills, or cleaning out your fridge, or doing the laundry. Whatever it is, as soon as you are up and at em, like the wise people at Nike have told us for years, just do it.

For me it's the laundry. I dread it. But even more than dreading it, I hate having it pile up all around me, and overwhelm me. So, now, every morning after I've had breakfast, I go and put in a load, transfer over to the dryer, or fold the clean ones and put them away. Whatever the laundry needs that morning. And I can't even tell you how much it has changed our lives. I've tried laundry schedules before, and just couldn't quite stick with it. But knowing that I just have to do a load every morning, just as part of my day makes it so much easier to stay on top of. Also, and here is the kicker, I've started putting away the folded laundry immediately. This is so easy, yet so hard to do, but makes the biggest difference.

I love this tip. It really has changed my life. I currently have a dark load to do today, but then everything, and I mean everything, other than what we are all currently wearing is clean, folded and put away. And that simple thing makes me so happy, relieves stress, and anxiety.

So, it may not be laundry, or any of the other things I've suggested, but whatever it is for you, once you've gotten up, and are sufficiently awake, just go ahead and swallow that frog. It will make the rest of the day feel so much better. I promise.

SUMMERTIME FREEBIES

2010-05-27T10:18:00.002-06:00

So, I have to say, one thing SLC is good at is dishing out free entertainment. And this summer is no exception. Here are a few of the things up for free coming your way soon.

MILLCREEK MOVIE NIGHTS

june 04 Monsters V. Aliens Canyon Rim Park
june 11 Cloudy with a chance of Meatballs Eastwood Elementary
june 18 Star Trek Evergreen Jr. High
june 19 Venture outdoors Festival Canyon Rim Park
june 25 Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Big Cottonwood Park
july 02 Sherlock Holmes Canyon Rim Park
july 09 The Blindside Eastwood Elementary
july 16 The Never Ending Story Evergreen Jr. High
july 30 Where The Red Fern Grows Big Cottonwood Park
Aug 06 The tree Amigos Canyon Rim Park
Aug 13 How to Train Your Dragon Evergreen Jr. High
Aug 20 Seven Brides For Seven Brothers Big Cottonwood Park
Aug 27 The Incredibles Canyon Rim Park

*movies start at dusk

FRIDAY NIGHT FLICKS

june 04 Princess Bride Liberty Park
june 11 Star Trek Lindsey Gardens
june 18 Transformers Jordan Park
june 25 Three Amigos Reservoir Park
july 02 Field of Dreams Constitution Park
july 09 The Blindside Fairmont Park
july 16 Napoleon Dynamite Wasatch Hollow

*Movies start around 9 and there will be free popcorn while it lasts!

TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES

*all free, held at Pioneer Park

july 08 Modest Mouse w/Avi Buffalo
july 15 Girl Talk w/Memory Tapes
july 22 Beirut w/Twin Sister
july 29 The New Pornographers w/the Dodos
Aug 05 Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings w/Jamie Lidell
Aug 12 Matisyahu
Aug 19 Big Boi w/ Chromeo
Aug 26 She and Him w/Dum Dum Girls!

And there you have it! Free stuff this summer! Enjoy!

AMEN, AMEN, AMEN!!

2010-05-26T08:36:00.002-06:00

http://www.collegehumor.com/video:1936291

I tried to embed it but it's not working. Go here for some LOST laughs.

LOST RECAP

2010-05-25T19:57:00.004-06:00

Okay, so let's just get to it.

Lost Series Finale. Here's the thing. The episode started. I was into it. It keeps going. I was still into it. It keeps on going. Still enjoying myself. Then the last fifteen minutes came, and I was like what in the what? It was like I was given this big bowl of vanilla ice cream. And I really like vanilla ice cream, in fact, I've been eating vanilla ice cream for almost six years every Tuesday. And then right before I'm finished with my last bowl of vanilla ice cream I will ever have, maybe like the last 3 satisfying bites. I'm really looking forward to devouring with an almost sort of a type of reverence because you see, I know I'm NEVER again going to be able to have a new bowl of vanilla ice cream. Just the memories. And then bam, the last three bites turn into sauerkraut. Out of no where. Just bam. Replaced. And you see some people really like sauerkraut. There is a time and a place for sauerkraut. But not now. Not at the end of my perfectly delicious, perfectly sweet bowl of vanilla ice cream.

So yeah, I pretty much wanted to yell at the screen, who took my vanilla and left me here with this sauerkraut?

That's how I felt about last night's episode. I liked most of it, hated the ending. And I wasn't sure about using that word hate, but I just decided that yeah, it sucked. I almost sorta feel like in the words of Sawyer, "It was all a long con." In that I feel like the ending was a cop out. A way to not really have to answer all the questions. A way in which to keep people still interested. Still talking. An ending that will have them all go out and buy the previous seasons on DVD to watch again to see where they might have missed the long con. But I don't think the answers are there. I think the writers said, "Ooops, well. We've got one season left. We better wrap this up quick." So they did. And in an almost, "WE TOLD YOU THE ISLAND WASN'T PURGATORY" nah, nah, na, nah nah way, they make the flash sideways purgatory. A place where the characters could work out their issues, meet up at a church, and cross over to the other side as one big dysfunctional family. What a friggin' cop out. You mean to tell me this whole time, this is how it was supposed to end? That the plane really did crash, and that the purpose was so that they could all meet, and be a part of people's lives, then all cross over together? Uh, no.

That being said, I have to say I have loved watching each and every episode of this series. Even the ones that weren't my favorites kept me mostly entertained. And I guess that's what a TV show is supposed to do right? Entertain. And that it did. And I enjoyed every bit of it. Just not those last fifteen minutes. And here's why.

My main problem with the ending was that clearly this whole series was about the characters. Who are they? Where have they been? Where are they going? Where would they have gone had the plane not crashed? How will they act off the island? How do they interact with the other characters? Pretty much the whole show is all about the characters, some would argue, Jack being the main one. But this is where I differ. In my mind the creators and writers have done a fabulous job of developing the characters, and for the most part they did an okay job of wrapping up the main ones. But they forgot to wrap up, or answer questions, about the most important character of all. The island. We know all the back stories of all the people, but somewhere along the way the island, it's mystery and it's power, took on the leading role in the show. Bigger than any person in fact. It played such a major part in the series, so to not have any background, and information, any closure on where the island came from, and how it came to be was the most frustrating part about the finale for me.

Some people are frustrated about not knowing the little things, like about Aaron, or Walt, or what the heck the temple crap was all about. Not me. I don't really care about all that. I just care about the island. Where did it come from? Who created it? Why did it have special powers? And rules? Who made the rules? How did the first people get there? How did this cave with the light get there? How did smokey get made? How come the island can be moved. All that. That's the stuff I wanted answers to. Not necessarily all the B.S. Christian Shepherd handed us. And yes, I feel had i got the answers to my questions about the island, I could have finished my last three delicious, satisfying bites of vanilla ice cream. Instead, I'm afraid I'm going to be craving vanilla ice cream for the rest of my life, and having a really bad sauerkraut aftertaste left lingering.

So yeah, those are my thoughts. I'd love to hear yours.

Amy

LOST THOUGHTS

2010-05-20T15:57:00.004-06:00

First off, sorry this post took so long to get up. Our laptop died so we are using an old laptop--seven years old to be exact. And it is so incredibly slow, I feel like I'm on a dial-up connection. Remember those? So yeah, sorry it took so long to get it up.

So, I have to be honest and say that I came into Tuesday night's episode with a bit of a chip, okay maybe a very large chip, on my shoulder due to last weeks ridiculous episode. The more I thought about last weeks episode the angrier I seemed to get about it. And really, I didn't want to feel foolish for sacrificing so much time over the last six years devoted to a show that was in the end just a bunch of crap. So, you can understand my relief when I discovered that this weeks episode would mean getting back to out lovely losties. So, without further ado, here are my thoughts on the episode:

Okay lets start off with Jack and the flash sideways. He's got this thing on his neck. And he's having breakfast with his son who reminds him of his concert. Now this concert I am guessing is where almost all of the losties will reconvene for one serious lostie sideways reunion. I think this is the same concert that Faraday will be playing at. So that will make Widmore and Eloise there. Jack will probably bring Claire. Jack's son's mom will be there (who I am guessing is Juliet), Desmond is bringing Kate, Hurley is bringing Sayid, Charlotte will be there, and I'm sure Miles will somehow get Sawyer to come along as well. Not sure what this all means, but I'm sure Desmond will get them all to realize somehow that they are connected, and then the realization will occur. I'm not sure what this will all mean in relation to island life, but I'm sure it will be the reunion of all television reunions and I can't wait!
So then we see Jack stitching up Kate --how very full circle of them. Reminds me of when he stitched her up (or was it her that stiched him?) after they first crashed. Don't hate me for sort of wishing that she had died. She is for sure one character that I will not miss once this whole shebang is over.
What a night for Ben! Finally we get back to Ben, Richard and Miles. We find out that Ben's got lots of rage still left over from Alex's death with ultimately results in him promising to do all of Flocke's dirty work in killing the candidates as well as offing Widmore. In a way it was sorta nice to see him get back to the evil Ben we all know and love, cause I was really starting to hate the wussy Ben we were getting episode after episode. I am also sorta hoping he is long-coning Smokey and in the end will kill him or something. Redemption would be nice.
But before Widmore is killed we find out the reason for Desmond. He is the failsafe. Should be interesting to see how this all works out. I'm thinking maybe he is the only one who can go into the light and survive? Oh, and what about Richard? I thought he couldn't die--i.e. was immortal? Or was I mistaken about that? And if he is dead, I'm kinda pissed cause I really enjoyed him and his eye-liner. So yeah, I'm really hoping smokey just threw him up in a tree somewhere and he's waiting to be rescued.
The flash sideways where Desmond beats the crap out of Ben was wierd, and I didn't enjoy the dinner with Alex whatsoever, except it was nice to see Roussou normal. The relationship Alex and Ben have in the sideways world sorta creeps me out a little bit. Am I the only one who thinks that?
Moving right along to the most important part of the night. Hurley sees young Jacob. Is this cause he had his ashes? Wierd. Then he runs after him, and suddenly he's adult Jacob? Even wierder. And he sits the Losties down and tells them why he brought them all to the island and chose them as his possible replacements (basically their lives sucked), offers them all the choice in the job opening, and as we've been predicting all season, Jack takes the bait, or rather the cup. Even though I knew Jack would do it, I was really hoping Hurley would. I just still love Hurley's character so much. I also found it interesting that Kate was also a candidate. And how funny was it that Jack had a cup in his backpack? Classic. So, Jack is now the replacement--and like Jacob. And it never fails to surprise me that Jack takes the job without making Jacob even answer a few questions. What is it with these people and not asking questions!!! Jack is now guardian of the mysterious, mythical, and slightly hokey light.
So now the question is: Will Jack succeed?
And remember at the beginning of this season when we saw the island under water? I am sure somehow this will come into play on Sunday I'm just not sure how. Is this how it all will end? Meaning that since the island is underwater, someone kills smokey, and Jack sacrifices himself on the island and drowns, so no one can live there and they all end up living in the sideways reality?
One thing is for sure, I am really looking forward to how Desmond is pulling all the Losties together in the sidways timeline. And I'm excited to see how he's gonna pull this "connection" to the island off. And how is Jack going to save the island? Perhaps in some weird way he will 'fix' Locke on the operating table? Who knows.
Best line of the night was for sure when Miles says to Ben: "I lived in those houses thirty years before you did, otherwise known as last week."

Anyhoo, I can't believe I there is only one episode left! It's a good thing I'm so excited, or else I'd be completely sad. Which I probably shouldn't admit, but I have really enjoyed this whole entire series so much. I am also getting excited for the accompanying shindig! I hope you all can make it! And if you didn't get an invite, and would like to come, it's probably cause I don't have your e-mail. Send me an e-mail to my naptime email and I will send you over an invite. Thanks so much to everyone who has participated in my lost "discussions" either on this blog or in real life. It's been a fun ride! Here's to Sunday!

LOST RECAP

2010-05-12T16:37:00.003-06:00

Wow. Okay, so I'm not really sure how I feel about this episode. I mean, did I like it? Not sure. Did I hate it? Not sure. I mean I guess in a way in answered some questions for us, but in the classic LOST way of just creating more. So, without further ado, lets get into it.

Okay, so the first thing I was bugged about is the fact that with only 3! episodes left here we are introducing more new characters. Uggg. Is anyone else sick of this? Just close it up already. I mean, I don't even really have closure with the characters that we've spent 5 years investing in already. Richard, Miles, Lapidus, Mr. Ecko. etc. We don't need any newbies at this point.
Then, first they are speaking some weird language with subtitles and then bam, English. This was just weird. Is this some weird thing that the writers didn't want to make the actors speak weird for a whole episode with subtitles, or what? Just made no sense. So, yeah, we're not off to a great start here people. Two things I hate.
The next thing we must discuss is the fact that Jacob & no-name (but I'd like to call him Esau. again, how lame is it that the writers still can not come up with a name for this MIB, smokey guy? I mean really. Brother is all we get?) are twin brothers. I feel like this answered a question, but really wasn't any surprise. Their mother comes to the island via a crashed ship, and shortly thereafter delivers the twins and then is brutally murdered by the crazy lady. Now here comes the third thing I hate. Could there perhaps been a more humane manner in which to kill Jacob & Esau's mother? I mean it was terribly violent and a little brutal -- Even for Lost.
So there we are. Crazy lady --who again has no name --just mother.(This so bugs me because in order to engage or relate with a character I really feel like they need a name.) So, she raises the boys as if they were her own. Not sure if she is good or evil. Again with this whole theme. I mean she did murder someone for hecks sake, but apparently she is the guardian of this light--which is the light inside all of us -- or some mumbo jumbo. She also knows a lot about the rules. She somehow made it so the boys can't kill each other. But how? Who gave her the power?
One thing that I thought was fabulous was the casting of the young boys in this episode. I think they did a great job of portraying the older Jacob and MIB.
Moving back to things I hate, did anyone else just hate Jacob and his whole personality? NOt only as a child, but also as an adult? Just made his character weak. And I feel like with how strong of a character he has been throughout the seasons -- powerful and everything I really needed him to come off stronger than he did. And more likeable. I wanted to come out of this episode team Jacob, but I'm afraid that just didn't happen for me. I feel like he was bullied into his position of keeper of the light, and that he didn't really even stand up to anything. So frustrating.
So really quick. This game that pre-smokey finds. Do you really think his 'mother' made it for him? I found it interesting that Esau can lie to her, but Jacob can not. Is this supposed to be some sort of metaphor for good and evil?
Then one day Esau sees his real mother ala Hurley. Esau is the only one who can see her since she is dead. What does this mean? Another metaphor for good and evil? Esau's mother tells him what really happened to her, and shows him the other, other others. Sheesh. Are you still with me? I found it interesting that when Esau tells Jacob this, Jacob still wants to live with his fake mother the killer, rather than go with his twin --his actual flesh and blood. Again, terrible character flaw Jacob. Fake mother takes them both to the light where she really crapily explains to them and us what it is, and what it means. It's in all of us, if it gets out we're all doomed etc. She also tells them not to go into it. Apparently if ya do it's worse than death. I'm not at all satisfied with this. In fact it really bugged me. Again with the introducing a new thing with only three episodes to go. And apparently a pretty important thing. The very thing that's the whole reason for the island, and therefore the show. Not sure if this is a copout on the producers part or what. And how does this light correlate to the temple with that crazy water etc. Is the temple on top of the light source maybe?
I thought it was interesting that fake mother tells Esau & Jacob that they can never leave the island. (Except we know that Jacob has -- to recruit the Losties) Esau spends years finding a way off. Eventually does with the donkey wheel-- that in past seasons has moved the island. I have to say that I for sure in this episode gained lots of respect for Esau/MIB. He was the thinker. The one who questioned authority. The one who ultimately followed his own conscience.
So, fake mother talks or rather pushes Jacob into becoming the keeper of the light via a glass of wine. What does this mean? I thought it was weird and out of place and I didn't like Jacob one bit in this scene. Now Jacob and "mother" are the same? What does this mean?
Crazy lady aka fake mother then goes wackadoodle and kills all the other other others. (Remember when smokey tells kate he once had a mother and she was crazy? He wasn't kidding!) Esau gets pissed and kills her. She thanks him--why? Jacob then gets upset and takes Esau to the light tunnel and throws him in --which is ultimately worse than death. So Jacob is now worse than a killer? Which by the way I thought fake mommy told them they couldn't hurt each other? Does throwing each other down the worse-than-death-light-tunnel not count? In which Esau then comes screaming out as Smokey.
Then we find out that Adam & Eve are fake crazy momma and Esau. Except Smokey still lives, inhabiting his own and other's bodies I guess. The flashback to season 1 was stupid. How dumb do the producers think we are? Give us die hards a break. I sorta feel like they threw that scene in there to prove some point to us -- that they actually knew where this whole shenanigan of a series was going--even in the beginning. Which I don't completely believe.

I guess all in all, I am sorta pissed that in order to close up the whole series we have to be making things, characters and situations up at this point. And really huge, and important things. As much as I've loved this whole series, I think this whole light tunnel crap is sorta a cop out. A quick answer. I really missed all the Lostie characters we've grown to love. And I hope we can get back to them in the next two episodes.

I do have to say though, something I'm realizing now is that this whole show-- the whole premise for the show anyway is one of myth, legend, and fairytale. This sorta bums me out. I mean, I really thought that I was invested in real people, who survived a real (albeit fictional) plane crash and their stories. Seems however this is not the case.

And after reading this whole post again, I guess I can safely say that I wasn't such a fan of this episode. Too little too late Lost producers. And even though this wasn't my favorite episode -- I'm still enjoying it. Still looking forward to the last few episodes.

Now, I must know --what were your thoughts on this episode? Love it? Hate it? Thoughts?

THOUGHTS ON LOST

2010-05-08T11:01:00.003-06:00

Okay, first off I want to say that I did not appreciate Lost taking a week breather. It was annoying how I had to catch myself up for a minute and remember why Jack was with Sayid etc. So, yeah, Lost producers? Bad move taking a week off. Just remember there are only a few episodes left, then you can have forever off. Moving along. . .

First off, lets talk flash sideways. Is anyone else confused by this nonsense? Jack seems to be getting closer to figuring out how they all fit together with flight 815, but Locke? His whole attitude was just weird. Makes me wonder if in some weird twist it's actually smokey in there not wanting to have Jack "fix" him. And really quick we must discuss the box Claire & Jack's dad gave Claire. I feel like I should know what this means, but clearly I'm missing something. The only connection I can make is that it's playing the song we've heard Claire sing to Aaron before. The "catch a falling star, put it in your pocket. . ." Anyone have any better insight into this? I feel like it must mean something since they put it in the episode when they have just precious few minutes left of the season, but maybe it was just to get Claire and Jack together again. Also in a weird sick way, I was sort of happy to see Locke's dad in a wheelchair. I know I am mean and terrible, but so was he. And lastly, nice to see Bernard again. Seems like he genuinely knows about the island life. HMMMMM.
Let's talk Jack for a moment. What a crazy turnaround his character has had through out the series. He reluctantly takes the leader roll, then, we see him in the flash backs and forward being a drunk and addict, then we see him in the flash sideways as a dad, and now we see him as a serious candidate and committed to the island. It's certainly strange to see one character take on so many different rolls, but I do have to say Matthew Fox is doing a wonderful job making each character believable and making his personality so multi-dimensional. We definitely learned more about the "rules" of the island. Meaning smokey can't kill the candidates, but can kill other people on the island, but the Losties can kill each other. Interesting.
So Fake Locke/Smokey decides to off as many candidates as possible. He can't kill them himself, so he must get them to kill each other. By taking an easily planted and very obvious bomb off the plane. How convenient. The most notable were Sun & Jin. I mean how sad was that? Even though I have invested so much time and energy into their relationship I still wanted Jin to swim away for his daughter. *Side note to Hubs. If we are ever in a sinking submarine, and I am stuck, and clearly going to die. Please swim away. Please. For our crazy kids. the end.* And even if you hadn't invested five years of your life into the relationship between Sun and Jin, it would have still made you just a little bit teary to see those hands floating away from each other in the water with the classic LOST music playing in the back ground. Sob. And I guess in a way we found out that Sun was the "candidate" of the two Kwans, cause Jin just basically kills himself, and I thought that was against the rules (remember jack in the black rock with richard?). Although I could be mistaken.
Sayid finally decides to wake up in this episode. Finally, finally, finally, only then to sacrifice himself, and die. So sad. I'm wondering what was the key to waking him up? Was it something Desmond did or said to him? And yay, we know that Desmond is still alive. I'm thinking it will be fun to find out how he fits into the whole scheme. Also, did you catch when Sayid says to Jack "It's going to be you, jack." Hmmm. Does this mean Jack is the ultimate "candidate?" And how would he know? Something again, perhaps Desmond said to him?
So, we know of the "candidates" left there is Jack, Sawyer (albeit unconscious), and Hurley. Kate of course is wounded but alive, but I'm thinking her time is coming as well. Especially cause she isn't a candidate and so neither Smokey nor Widmore see the point in keeping her around. Finally someone that agrees with me that Kate sucks! But an even bigger question I've got is what happened to Lapidis? Did he die, survive? I realize he's not a "candidate", but still. It'd be nice to know. And while we are on the subject, what about Miles, Richard and Ben?
One thing I just thought at the end of the episod was if Smokey knew who was dead and who was alive, meaning he knew Sun, Jin and Sayid were dead, doesn't he probably know about Desmond not being dead?
I am excited to see what role Widmore plays in this whole big mess. Whose side is he really on? And I am glad to see a return to Jacob and MIB next week.
And finally what is the significance with all the Losties getting together at the hospital? What does this all mean? I seriously have no idea, but I can't wait to find out!!!

So, the big Finale event is going down on May 23rd. That's a Sunday night -- not a Tuesday. ABC always does this for some reason. Moves their big finales to Sunday. Must be a bigger TV night for people or something. But ANYHOO, I want you all to know that I will most definitely be having a LOST finale party at my place for sure!!!! And if you comment on my Lost posts you are most definitely invited!!!! I shall be sending out e-vites for all quite shortly, but in the mean time, be sure to keep that night Sunday May 23rd open!!!! CAN'T WAIT TO WATCH IT!

A FEW AWESOME THINGS

2010-05-07T07:58:00.002-06:00

Thing 1's Mothers day program at school yesterday. For his talent time, he read a poem, and unbeknownst to me decided to do an impromptu drawing right on the spot in front of everyone as his talent. I had no idea this was going to happen. I thought reading the poem we wrote together would be the talent. But no. I was dying. It was hilarious. Just like an episode of Win Loose or Draw. We were all waiting in anticipation of what his drawing was going to be. In the end it ended up being a fabulous portrait of his grandma. Love that darn kid.
Speaking of Thing 1, did I tell you he finally learned how to tie? Yep, a few Sundays ago he decided to get serious about it, and so we sat down and within a half hour he had it mastered. He now has his very own pair of Chucks that are grey with skulls on them. And every time it rains he tells me how great it is that he has these Chucks to keep his ankles dry. Pure awesomeness.
Back to the Mother's Day program -- loved the kid who for his talent sang Bob Marley's Buffalo Soldier. And the girl who tap danced on the carpet . And the boy who did ten cartwheels in a row. And the boy who told the vampire who was "here to vash your vindows" joke which took a really long time, and in which I'm convinced made it funnier than any other time I've heard it told. But my favorite was still Thing 1's drawing on demand. Classic. Kindergartners are awesome.
One more thing about Thing 1, after some major luck we were able to get him into the dual immersion Spanish program next year (instead of the french program) which I'm thrilled about. Having him know another language will be awesome, but knowing Spanish will be fantastic. We had a huge cinco de mayo party to celebrate in which we ate nachos, and tacos and I made the most spectacular homemade salsa recipe which can be found here.
Finally decided on a car seat for the babe. After 2 previous purchases & returns I think this will be the one. And most importantly it carries babies up to 32 inches. Which is always a fantastic thing when your babies come out the size of a small pony.
I have good reason to believe that the nursery has a very good chance of getting painted today. I mean, I'm not holding my breath or anything, but I'm fairly certain come Sunday it will be done. This is the color I chose. A nice little warm gray. This is definitely awesome.
Thank you to all of you for taking the time to comment on my nesting post. I love all the good ideas and product recommendations.
It's Friday!!!
The kids have a primary party today. Which means mom gets a little alone time. Hip, hip, hooray!
Thing 2 has her dance recital tomorrow. This should also be awesome.
So many things to be thankful for. Have no idea why I'm in such a positive mood. Must be the fabulous mothers day weekend we've got right around the corner, and the fact that even though it's not super hot, it is most definitely the Spring, and therefore no longer Winter, and therefore no longer sucky.
My cup of vanilla Chi tea (herbal decaf of course) with a shot of skim and truvia that I whipped up myself and enjoyed last night. Heavenly. Only I'm not sure if they will have tea in heaven. But if they do, that's what I'm going to drink.
The new mid-day Real game time for tomorrow. We're taking the kids. Not sure if this is awesome or not. I'll let you know later.
This strange and unexpected, and totally out of the normal splash of optimism I'm having this morning.
This commercial. Thanks for the link hoddogs.
And this one. kinda enjoying the white haired lady. Makes me want to throw a shrimp on the barbie.

Hope you all have a fabulous Friday. I've got nothing but love for ya!

Oh, and for those of you waiting for a LOST post, it's coming. Sorry.

MY LATEST GUILTY PLEASURE

2010-05-06T12:45:00.003-06:00

So, my latest guilty pleasure. 9 by Design. Have you seen it? It's like all the great things I love about HGTV, smashed up together with a little reality TV. It might possibly be my new favorite reality show. It is about these two designers Bob & Courtney Novogratz, who own a design company Sixx Design. It follows them as they build houses, design for clients, and raise their 7 (yes seven!) kids in downtown Manhattan. Sure they have a lot of kids, but don't even for a minute think Bob & Courtney are anything like the Duggars. These people may have a lot of kids, with awesomely different names (Wolfie, Tallulah, Bellamy, Breaker, Five, Holly, and Major), but they also know style when they see it, and you won't see even an inch of waist length hair on this show-- hallelujah!

The other day I was trying to get Hubs to watch it with me. He hates big family reality shows (think jon & kate, duggers, table for 12 etc.), but I was trying to tell him that this one, was nothing like those. If for nothing else he had to watch because of the awesome design, and houses showcased in each episode. But what I should have done, was send him over to Apartment Therapy where they recently did a house tour of Bob & Courtney's latest home. It's right on the Hudson River in NYC, currently on the market for a cool $25 million and is probably one of the most spectacular homes I've ever seen. Might just be my dream home. Think modern meets vintage, meets cartoon. If you are at all interested in design, jump on over to AT here, and take a tour. Trust me you won't be disappointed.

Oh, and if you wanna catch 9 by Design, you can find them on Bravo! Tuesdays at 8.

NESTING -- A CALL FOR HELP

2010-05-05T10:47:00.003-06:00

So, here I am with just about 7 weeks to go, and I am absolutely in my nesting phase. Have been for a few weeks, but it's especially kicking in now. I'm feeling a big push to get the nursery done --just bought the paint yesterday--a nice warm grey, purchase any necessary baby gear, and be organized and ready for Thing 3 to make his arrival in June.

So, I was inspired by Design Mom's five posts about preparing for baby's arrival, and thought I would go ahead and do my own little version here right on Naptime. She divided hers into five different parts. Layette (things you'd need for clothing wise for baby), sleeping (cribs, swaddlers, etc.), bathing/diapering (cloth or otherwise), feeding (bottles, boppies etc.) and mom's needs (nursing, packing for the hospital etc.) I thought I'd just go ahead and lump mine into one post since I know there aren't zillions of you readers out there. Since it's been so long since I had a baby around - and we basically gave away ALL our baby gear, and I know a few of you that have just had babies, or are already seasoned moms, or frankly are just smarter than I am, so therefore, I would LOVE your input. So the question is:

WHAT BABY PRODUCT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND OR CAN'T IMAGINE LIVING WITHOUT?

In other words, what are the products that you reach for. For example for me, I hated the boppy, and just made sure I had a good pillow or two under my arms for nursing. I've heard Aiden & Anais swaddling blankets are great. And I'm looking into the Puj bathtub. I also loved with my first two those little onesies with the fold-over hands so the little babes don't scratch up their faces with those new nails. Or, do you have a carseat you LOVE? or maybe a sling or carrier you just think is peachy? Yep, it can be anything and everything. Bottles, diapers, wipes, etc. Anything you might have an opinion on baby-wise, I WANT IT! Even if it is advice. I'll take it! Anyone tried those wipes warmers? Are they worth the money, or just a waste? See, I've got all these questions and need your help.

So, take a minute, leave a comment, and help a sister out. Thanks!!!

Oh, and for you mamas with multiples or any sort of medical background-- I've got a question for you. I swear I feel like this baby is right down in my pelvis. With the first two I felt like they were right in my ribs, but with this one that just isn't the case. I'm not sure if he's dropped early, or if I just have crappy stomach muscles now after three kids, but something is wrong. Here is the deal. This is going to sound weird probably, but it honestly feels like maybe from all the weight of the baby that I might have broken my pelvis. The under, or backside of my pubic bone/pelvis feels like it might have like a hairline fracture or something. Every time I stand up it is just really painful in my pelvis. And tender, and feels like it honestly might be broken or bruised or sprained or something. And if I stand on one leg --like to get my pants on -- it's terrible. Almost unbearable. So, I guess my question is -- is this even possible? Can you fracture your pelvis? I realize obviously they cant do an x-ray, so how would I find out for sure, and if it is, then is there even anything you can do? I mean, I guess you can't get a cast or anything. So yeah, if anyone has any thoughts on the subject that would be awesome. Thanks.

DETAILS

2010-04-29T10:23:00.003-06:00

So, a few weeks ago, I was in a funk. Could absolutely NOT see any light at the end of this pregnancy tunnel. And I had absolutely no qualms about sharing that funk. People would ask me how I was doing, and I would easily say things such as, "Miserable." "Huge!", and "Go away before I punch you in the face." Yes. I was so pleasant to be around. And I am fairly certain that most of this negative sludge was coming from the fact that I was feeling oh-so-pregnant, looking oh-so-pregnant, and sick and tired of people feeling pity for me. There aren't a lot of great things about the third trimester, at least none that I was willing to focus on.

So as you can see, I wasn't exactly happily pregnant. I was in that stage of being so done with being pregnant, yet, you still have a good 2 and half months left. And well, I must have just been radiating my funk, cause my friend Kristin came up with this brilliant idea. She could tell I was just done, so she decided that we would schedule all these fun things to do from now until the baby was to come and just fill up my time with other things to look forward to so that these last few months would just fly by. She decided to call it the 68 days of Amy or something like that. We were going to fill it with massages and pedicures and just fun relaxing kind of stuff. And then a week came and went with nothing being added to my calendar, and my mood getting more and more sour. Not good.

Then, a few days ago I had a complete epiphany. And frankly, it couldn't have come at a greater time. I started thinking about the best way to distract myself and stop focusing on all the things I disliked about this baby not coming sooner. Get out of my own head if you will. So, then, going off my friend Krissy's brilliant idea, about the 68 days of Amy, I decided to revamp it, and so here is what I came up with. Technically I now have 58 days left before my scheduled C-section, and what better way to make the time fly by than to get out and do a little service. Something here and there, everyday to make the time fly by. Instead of focusing on me for the next 2 months, I've decided to focus on other people. Do a little something for someone else, each day. And since I tend to be a bit of a slacker, and could see myself counting pouring my kids bowls of cereal each morning as service, I decided that the service had to be for someone outside of my immediate family. Extend myself a bit. Get out of my comfort zone. And since I'm huge and prego, and can't help people wash their windows or anything, I decided to keep my service small. In the details. Cause really, I've decided that for me, the best parts of life, are in the details. For instance: A really meaningful, heartfelt compliment. A handwritten, thoughtful thank you note. A short, quick e-mail. A short, sweet text. Taking a neighbors kids for a play date. Baking a batch of cookies for a friend. Hosting a get-together with loved ones. Something. Everyday. And so I don't forget, I'm planning them out. Putting them on my calendar. Something to look forward to every day. Get myself out of my own head, and into other people's lives. Cultivate my relationships with the people who mean the most to me, and get back into the details of life.

And then because sometimes I second guess myself, come up with a killer idea (like this one) and then a day or so later, decide the whole idea is lame and never follow through, God sent me a big old sign. A sign that this was absolutely the thing I MUST do, if I am to survive. Out of nowhere I heard a slice of a song, that I've heard and sung myself probably hundreds of time. Perhaps even thousands. But today, when I heard it, it was as if I was hearing it all over again for the first time. Solidified my need to get out of myself and into the next 58 days of life. Into the details.

"Give" Said The Little Stream

give said the little stream.

give oh give. give oh give.

give said the little stream as it hurried down the hill.

i'm small i know but wherever i go

the grass grown greener still.

singing singing all the day.

give away. oh give away.

singing singing all the day.

give oh give away.

So, if you happen to get a strange compliment, text, e-mail or thank you note in the mail from yours truly in the next two months, just know that you're helping. In ways you wouldn't even realize. Helping me get out of and beyond myself. Helping me to cultivate and create a nest of positivity, and thankfulness, and gratefulness, and love for this baby to come home to. And a mentally healthy and happy mommy to hover over that nest. So, even though I'm not small, and well actually a bit large, I can still make the grass grow greener still, and can absolutely give oh give away. And suddenly, almost in a magical sort of way, even if only slightly, I'm beginning to see a sliver of light at the end of that tunnel. Yep, just a sliver, but something is definitely there. Here's to living life in the details!

LOST CONFUSION

2010-04-22T10:28:00.003-06:00

SPOILER ALERT.

Okay first off, is anyone else not completely enjoying the way the writers are wrapping up Lost? I mean I love the story of course, but the speed, and the way they are just jumping all over the place, it's hard to stay focused. Even for me. Seemed like a huge set-up episode to me.
That being said, let's get on with the goods. One of the big "answers" we got this week was that Christain Shepherd (Jack's papa) has just been Smokey/Flocke all along. Not especially surprising really. Kinda figured, since we know that for some reason Smokey doesn't have his own body. However does open the question as to who was it who came to Jack in LA after the rescue, and to Michael on the freighter? Smokey?
So, Jack jumps ship. Also not surprising. Although I'm thinking that made for a really terrible swim being in jeans and shoes and having a backpack on and all. Hey, I'm just saying.
And if we may discuss the way all these Losties lives are interesecting in the flash sideways. Kinda creepy that Sun recognized Locke. Was she recognizing Fake Locke though? Finally it seems the two realities are beginning to merge. Not sure what this means exactly, but I'm sure it means somthin'. I'm also not sure if their actions off the island or on, are affecting the other existence. Some people really think one affects the other, but I'm not so sure about this. Or is it just destiny that their lives are meant to intersect? I'm sorta thinking that this flash sideways is how the show will end. At least I hope so. That little David (Jack's son) is too adorable a kid, not to ever have been made.
Also speaking of Sun, let's talk about this reuniting scene she had with Jin. I don't know. Maybe it's just me, but it seemed a little hoaky, and honestly bugged the crap out of me. Mostly because I wasn't really able to enjoy it cause I wastoo busy yelling at the screen really loudly, "Turn off the fence! Turn off the fence! For the love of all that is holy, I hope they turned off the fence and do not get fried to smitherines!" And then I guess it was off. Wierd. And then I was all distracted about how they didn't have the fence turned on, and I couldn't really enjoy or focus on the reunion.
One thing I want to discuss for a moment, is this whole idea that Smokey is telling the Losties about leaving the island. I'm pretty sure it's flawed, and he is lying to them. He tells them that before they couldn't leave the isalnd cause Jacob was alive. Except, they did. On the helicopter. Was that only cause they were together? And if this was the reason, obviously Jacob didn't care. Is this cause he knew they would be back? Or, is it because Smokey was really helping them get off the island (like he told Jack)? So is Jack right in wanting them to all stay on the island?
Sorta think it's sad that no one cares if Miles gets off the island.
Also even though I think Hurley's comment about Anikan and the dark side was funny, I also think there is more there. Can people come over from the dark side? Sayid, Claire? Smokey?
Let's talk Desmond for a moment. I'm not sure what his whole purpose on the island is, but whatever it is, I just think that is a really shallow well. And for the question of the night. . . do we think Sayid went through with it? Killing of Des, I mean? My vote is that Sayid did NOT in fact kill Des, and that he let him go. Although I could totally be wrong on this one. But I'm pretty sure Desmond is too awesome to be dead.
And finally, Widmore. What is his deal? Does he really want to kill all these Losties who are candidates? I am so confused as to whose side widmore is on. We know he's not on Smokey/Locke's, but is it Jacob's side, or just his own?
And one more finally, so I guess Jack is "the last recruit"? He's officially on Smokey's side? Or is he? dun, dun, dun.

LINK LOVE

2010-04-22T07:42:00.002-06:00

Okay, so I was gonna do this snazzy little Happy Earth Day post, but my friend Sabrena, beat me too it. And it was awesome. So, rather than waste time and energy (see- me being green--ha!) I decided just to link you over to her blog. Everything she says I ditto--except maybe the EC stuff. That in my book is just crazy. But you could always substitute ECing for cloth --and here is my opportunity to remind you all of my cloth diapering info night that is coming up real quick like. If you got lazy on me, and still want an invite shoot me an e-mail, or comment to this post, and I will send you an invite. Enjoy!

EARTH DAY ACTION VIA SUITE SPOTS

MY DAUGHTER THE KLEPTO

2010-04-17T17:16:00.003-06:00

So yesterday I needed to run out to the distribution center so I loaded up the kiddos and out we went. Mid-stop Thing 1 announces he must visit the restroom. No biggie, only thing once you go out of the distribution center in midvale, you can't go back in from the back doors. You have to walk through Deseret Book. So there we are walking through Deseret Book to get back to the car, and everything seems fine, until we get outside (almost to the car) and I notice Thing two is grabbing her shirt with both hands. Which isn't really normal. So, I ask her what the problem is. She quickly blushes and says nothing. Which I know can't be true. So, I question her further, and ask to see what she's got down her shirt. She of course refuses, and that's when I realize the little klepto has stolen something.

So, against Thing 2's wishes I stick my hand down her shirt and remove the stolen item. I take one look at it, and it's all I can do to stifle my laughter. My daughter the klepto stole a pencil from Deseret book that said, wait for it, wait for it, CHOOSE THE RIGHT.

Classic. Oh the irony.

SO MUCH BEAUTY IN THE WORLD

2010-04-17T12:06:00.002-06:00

Loving this new song by Macey Gray. It's perfect for this spring, and typifies everything I am feeling at this moment.

I beg of you to find this song, download it, play it and dance.

Happy Spring Everyone! It's finally here!

A LITTLE COUPON LOVE

2010-04-15T08:33:00.002-06:00

So I came across a few coupons that I thought some of you might be interested in. I know I am.

Mmmmmm. Jamba. The one thing I for sure have been craving this pregnancy. And of course it's the healthy one. Peanut Butter Mood hold the banana (nothing healthy in there please!). Valid April 12-25th.
Einstein Bagles is offering free bagles every Friday before 11 a.m. Offer good through May 22nd.

This is one I will be taking advantage of for sure. Discovery Gateway (a.k.a the children's museum) is offereing $5 admission for up to 4 people for a limited time. Of course like with all these deals, you must print off the coupon and bring it in.

Also a few more of note: if you are a coffee drinker, bring your reusable tumbler into any starbucks today (April 15th) and they will fill in for free!

Free Grilled Taco at Rubios good today only April 15th.

15% off P.F Changs today only.

Enjoy!

LOST THOUGHTS

2010-04-14T21:14:00.002-06:00

SPOILER ALERT FOR LOST AIRING 4/13

Okay, so let's get right down to business. So much to discuss. Shall we?

Okey dokey. First off I want to say, that even though I thought this episode was good, I didn't think it was great. Seemed kind of choppy and all over the place, and honestly, a little rushed. But, it was still good. I mean, there was lots of Hurley so that's definitely good in my book.
So it's pretty evident here that the time lines flash sideways and island life are beginning to overlap, and merge if you will. Not sure what this all means, other than it's happening.
So if we know they are merging and the characters off the island in the flash sideways are remembering their island lives, are the characters on the island also remembering their flash sideways lives? Is that maybe why Hurley all the sudden has so much gusto? And maybe why Desmond is so calm and fearless?
Okay, so it really was great to see Libby again. I guess I didn't realize what a love connection those two had. It was interesting that in the flash sideways Libby was the one who was crazy, and Hurley was "normal". I also think it's interesting who can remember "island life", and how. Charlie being drugged out, Desmond in the MRI & when he touched penny, Daniel when he saw Charlotte, Libby (not sure how she remembers) and Hurley when he kisses Libby. I'm sure there is something significant here, just not sure what.
So Ilana dies, and honestly, it was a little shocking but truly, I didn't even care. And still don't. Without any back story on her, it was kinda hard to connect, and therefore care. I mean it sucks that she died cause death sucks, but like Ben said, the island was done with her.
Michael. Okay, I didn't really appreciate his return. I never really liked his character, and honestly I was a little disappointed in his "answer" well, rather the writers answer, that the whispers were those that are stuck on the island. In the past seasons these whispers have always preceded the others. And we've been repeatedly told in interviews with the producers that the island is NOT purgatory. So I just did not appreciate this "answer". Seems like a quick fix to me. Boo.
Sayid is really bugging me. I mean, his character was one of the more enjoyable ones in the last five seasons, and this year, it's just so annoying. I want the old sayid back.
Was it just me or did Smocke seem a little confused to see Desmond? Clearly he wasn't appreciating the fact that he couldn't control, manipulate and scare Des. Do you think this is because Desmond remembers the flash sideways and his other life? Love his whole Zen attitude though about asking Smocke "What is the point of being afraid?" Makes you sort of think that he's asking the devil himself what the point of his existence is? So then Smoke just pushes him down the well. Saw that one coming for sure. Too bad Des didn't. I'm glad though that we got a little sneak peak teaser for next week and we can see that Des ends up being okay. Few. And so then what if he stands up and walks over and turns the wheel? Could it just be that easy? I highly doubt it.
So lets talk about the one great thing in this episode. The shocking ending. Des runs over, or under, Locke. I've got a couple theories on this. I did notice that his car had two different license plates in this episode, that they showed very prominently. One when he was stalking Libby & Hurley's date (finally!) on the beach, and another when he runs over Locke. Not sure of the significance, but since we know the writers and producers are so detail-oriented I can't imagine this is a mistake. But I'm just not sure what it means. Is it a third alternate reality (I sure as heck hope not!) or is it Des just changing it so no one can track him down and get him locked up?
And why we are on the subject, why does Des go bananas and run him over? Is it to get him to remember the "island" somehow like he did in his near-death experience, or is it because the flash sideways Des remembers Locke pushing him down the well and is pissed, and gets him back?
So Sun. I'm thinking a Sun/Jin reunion might not come until the season finale.
We must discuss the little smirking boy we saw this episode. Is this an older version of the other little boy we saw a few episodes back? Is this Jacob as a boy, growing older, trying to remind Smokey that his time is running out? Whatever he is, I'm over the producers introducing new characters at this point. I can hardly keep the 15 million currently straight.

Well, as you can see, I've got nada as far as insight goes on this episode. It seemed confusing and jumbled and just wasn't my favorite. Oh well, you win some you lose some. Did you hear that the season finale is going to be five hours?! Well, sorta. A two hour recap, which at first I thought I would just skip since I've seen every single episode of the last five seasons, but honestly I'm thinking it would be nice to just have a little refresher and see how the producers tie everything all up. Then of course the two hour finale, and then an hour on Jimmy Kimmel after the finale. This hour I will probably skip, and just catch the best moments the next day on youtube. But yeah. I can't believe this show is finally winding down. What will I blog about? I guess I will have to start blogging about my actual life again.

GLEE RETURNS. . . FINALLY!

2010-04-14T19:19:00.004-06:00

Finally. Glee has returned. And it did NOT disappoint.

"Did you know that dolphins are just gay sharks?" Best line of the night.

And This little ditty above? Brilliance. Can't wait for the all-Madonna episode next week!

For some reason, the video isn't allowing me to embed it. Probably cause it's so awesome. You can go here to watch Sue Sylvester rock the Vogue!

LOST RECAP

2010-04-07T15:56:00.006-06:00

SPOILER ALERT. LOST THOUGHTS AND RECAP FOR EP AIRING 4/6

Okay, first off, how completely awesome was this episode?! Satisfying in so many ways. I feel like I might be on a slight LOST high if that is even possible. We got to see Desmond again, and Charlie, and Daniel!!!!! Oh yes!!! So many things to discuss. Let's get right too it.

First off we must take note that for the first time we didn't get the whole "previously on Lost" bit. Which I have to say it's about time they did. Cause really, if you're not caught up on island life at this point, it's kinda silly to catch you up in 30 seconds when there is only 5 episodes left.
Finally it feels like the writers are trying to tie this whole fiasco up. Answers are finally coming, and quickly. Almost too quickly it seems.
So we found out for sure that the island was indeed not finished with Desmond. And I was confirmed in my thoughts that it was because of his electromagnetism (or energy) specialties. I'm not sure why this is, other than the fact that maybe it's because he spent so many years down in that hatch next giving himself all those immunizations? This episode seemed oddly familiar to the one where he was on the freighter going back and forth to different times trying to find his constant. Something special about this here time-traveling Desmond. Especially when he finally finds Penny and touches her hand and flashes back to the island. Maybe this is why Eloise didn't want him to find her? Then he would have a constant?
I did want to note that Desmond is one of the only Losties who alternate life is actually worse off island. I mean, I guess he is in some way powerful, working for Widmore and all, but no Penny, no child, no love.
So fun to see Charlie, although he sounded a bit like a crazy man. Talking all the mumbo jumbo of choice and free will. Even though this was confusing I feel like it was a way for the writers to get the larger point of the entire series across, that Sometimes a choice isn't really a choice. And also how about the crazy dejavu drowning thing?! Really creepy writers.
I thought it was interesting to see that it was LOVE that ultimately pulls all three (Desmond, Charlie & Faraday) to their alternate island universe. For Charlie it was Claire, and clearly he would rather have love for a short time and die, then live this other life he is now living. For Desmond it was Penny, and For Faraday it was Charlotte. (Also remember when Jack did sort of a double take with Kate in his flash sideways ep? Maybe it's because he loved her).
Speaking of Faraday. . . . He's BACK!!!! Finally. I loved this little twist of him being Widmore's son, and of Eloise being Widmore's wife. She comes off a little gangster and mobster though in that it may seem like Widmore is running the show, but clearly it's Eloise who is really the one making all the decisions.
But how does Eloise stack up against Jacob and the Man in Black (Locke/Smocke)? Are they (Widmores) the ultimate manipulators, or just pawns in the whole Jacob/MIB thing? I'm thinking the latter since we've seen Widmore and Eloise on the island before as youngsters. So perhaps that is when the MIB/Jacob reels them in to do their work off island? Just a thought.
Really quick though about Eloise, clearly she knows whats going on. Speaks to Desmond like her all-knowing self, and reapeatedly tells him how great his life is and to not mess with things. Do you think this is because Eloise can't truly get over the sacrifice the island took, of her son Daniel? Is she on the side of the flash sideways because she knows DAniel will die if he goes to the island? Is this whole universe being manipulated by Eloise just so she can be with Daniel?
Jumping back to this constant thing really quick, do you think that is why Desmond wants to find all of the people from flight 815? If he can help them find their constants (and does it HaVE to be someone you love or not?) then they will all be okay?
I thought these were some significant lines dealing with the bigger issue LOST writers are tying to get across: Desmond to Charlie: "There is always a choice brotha." Eloise to Desmond: "What happened, happened." and Faraday to Desmond: "What if all this wasn't supposed to be our life? What if for some reason we changed things?"
One thing I am sorta, well really actually, confused about is the whole time travel thing. I wish there was a big visual timeline thing someone could make. It sure would make understanding this whole thing a lot easier. For instance their flash sideways lives (as if the plan had not crashed) do not line up with their flashback lives. Remember how Desmond and Widmore did not get along? This is confusing. Very confusing. Because how would their lives change so dramatically just because the plane didn't crash? Suddenly everybodys lives are better? Hurley doesn't have the jinx/curse, Jack has a son, etc. But Kate is somehow still running from the same guy? I'm so confused.
If anyone has any insights on this or anything else from this great episode just be sure to leave a comment below. Thanks!

BECAUSE I CAN

2010-04-06T21:54:00.003-06:00

Dear Former Facebook "Friend",

Just so we are clear.

I know we haven't spoken in ten years, but I "friended" you anyway cause I mostly thought what the hell. We were friends then, and I thought, against my better judgement perhaps, that you might have, oh I don't know, grown up in the last ten years. But then you go and post half nude photos of yourself in skanky lingerie every three days for all your "friends" to see. And well, I just thought you should know that it makes you look really, really, really tacky. And desperate. Clearly you want to be sure everyone knows what you look like in your skivies. Congrats. You look like a ho.

Cheers,

Amy

8 ESSENTIALS FOR A NEWBORN

2010-04-05T18:01:00.003-06:00

Saw this little post on simplemom.net, and since there are so many bloggers out there that I know of who are prego I thought I'd go ahead and link it.

First off have to say I love the Ergo baby picture. {wink} I agree with almost everything on the list. Except maybe I'd exchange# 2 for a co-sleeper or crib. My kids never slept well in a pack-n-play although it was great to have for traveling and we still use it when friends' kids come over to sleep.

I also might add a great nursing chair--if you plan on nursing--one that rocks and reclines and just is uber-comfy since you will be spending many a hour in it. And add to that list a great nursing bra. Something with support and also easy to undo with one hand. But other than that, I agree that people way over buy and tend to not use most of the baby crap they get.

Anything you seasoned moms would add to the list?

SMATTERING OF THOUGHTS

2010-04-05T15:35:00.004-06:00

I am almost positive I have self-diagnosed VW. That's vacation withdrawal in case you aren't familiar. I know it's been a good few weeks since we've been back, but it was the absolute perfect getaway. And I miss the beach.
So, after finding out that Thing 1's shoes had two enormous holes in the toes, I decided to go out and look for some high tops for him. He was very excited about it, and talked about it for a good two days leading up to our adventure. After shlumming all over the valley I am 100% certain that there are NO high tops in the valley that don't require tieing. Trust me on this. We went to almost every shoe store on the planet. I found out what he really wanted were Chuck Taylors. Which was funny when I asked the lady at Nordstroms if she had the high top version of Chuck Norris'. Yeah. I'm that awesome. She just looked at me like I was crazy, then laughed. And I did too, cause it's pretty lame. So, we tried them on, and honestly, it's just a lot of laces. And well, I can't even bend over to tie my own shoes at this point, let alone someone elses. So, until he learns to tie, he will just have to wait on the Chucks. But we did get a sweet pair of mid-top Schetchers that are velcro. Not all the way high tops, but higher than low cuts. It's very technical people. But now that he's had his shoes for a week, he tells me he hates them and wants the slip on Vans he also tried on. Man this kid is picky about his accessories.
I am officially in my third trimester. Crazy. I can't wait for this baby to come. I'm ready to not have two chins, and to be able to see my toes again, and not have heartburn, and reclaim my waist. Oh, and getting to meet the kid will be cool too.
So, Thing 2 turned 4 years old yesterday. I know, on Easter. I was afraid her day would be spoiled by the big bunny, but no, it was just extra special, and filled with lots of candy. She got spoiled rotten by her grandmothers, and had a fantastic day. She is a fabulous little girl, and I'm so grateful she is mine. It was really adorable when she went over and kissed her brother on the cheek (who woke up with a fever and couldn't attend her party--ended up being strep!), and said, "I hope you feel better brother. Come to my party when you do."
Speaking of Thing 1 (sheesh this is a kid heavy post), last week to celebrate Thing 2's 4th birthday, I temporarily lost my mind and took 7 kids to Classic Skate, and while he was skating around he fell and smacked his face on the ground knocking his front tooth out. And he just came over cool as a cucumber, grinning with a mouth full of blood about how he had "lost" his tooth. Lost is not quite right there buddy. Not sure it was even wiggly, but it's out now, and the tooth fairy came and he earned his second dollar from the generous lady.
So I can't tell you all my level of excitement that Glee is soon to return to TV. It is gonna be total and pure awesomeness. I'm just sure of it.
So did you know we have two pet frogs? Well we do. Sara and Tyson. And the only reason I, I mean Santa, got them for the kids was because pretty much the only thing Thing 1 asked for was a pet Dog for Christmas. I just told him Santa was getting old, and his hearing must have failed him, and he brought you a pet Frog. Well, he bought it hook line and sinker. But really, I got them because they are way awesome-er than having a pet dog. No shedding, no poop, no barking, no slobber. But apparently you do have to change their water twice a year. And well, it's been about six months and I can tell the water needs-a-changing. And honestly, I am totally freaked out. Animals scare me. Even ones as little as frogs. I am freaked out I will kill them when i change the water. I am sure I am going to somehow mess the process up, and then they will die, and my kids will hate me, the end.
My favorite moment of conference this weekend was during the last session on Sunday when Thing 1 turned to me while Elder Russell M. Nelson was speaking and said, "Mom, that guy has the biggest ears I've ever seen." Pretty sure I laughed for a good ten minutes. I'm hoping with all that laughing I lost a pound. Maybe a half?
So my new calling is in the primary. Teaching the valient 11/12s. It's much more low key than the R.S. presidency. Hubs however just got called as the Elders Quorum President. I think it's hilarious when people call him president. And I thought it was even more hilarious when he told me of this great idea his friend Hans had told him about to help with calling and recording home teaching. After he explained the idea to me, I tried to be supportive and not laugh, but what he had just explained to me was a glorified calling tree. Yep, something that women around the world in the PTA and Relief Society have been implimenting for years. He thought it was the best idea he'd ever heard. Hilarious. He really is going to be an awesome EQ pres though. Super excited and motivated. Fun to see him all hyped about the gospel. I really did marry an awesome guy. Have I told you that lately? Well I did.
I bought some tulips for our Easter/birthday party for Thing 2 that didn't end up happening, and can I just say how much I love having freshly cut flowers in the house? Makes it feel all springy. Which is more than I can say for the weather.
So, have you seen the newer TV show Modern Family? I was introduced to the awesomen-ess of it whilst on vacation and fell in love. If you are not watching/tivoing this show, you must. Or catch it on hulu. Total genius.
Still no progress on the nursery, although now that I'm in my third trimester I'm feeling like something is going to happen soon. Especially if I go to home depot and buy the paint and put it on hubs side of the bed.
k, think that is all for now. I'm fat, and pregnant, and am happy that spring break is officially over tomorrow. Back to School. Those words never sounded so good. Love you kids!

CLOTH DIAPERING

2010-04-05T12:08:00.004-06:00

I have a confession to make.

I used disposable diapers for my first two children.

Something about this statement makes me feel a little guilty. I guess it's mostly because I feel a little bit terrible about the amount of waste I've literally contributed to the local landfill. And all because I don't want to take the time to rinse out a poopy diaper.

So, much to Hubs' dismay, I have been muling over the idea of cloth diapering for this third time around. I know most of you might think that's just plain disgusting and quite archaic, but I've heard that the cloth diapering arena has really made great strides and improvements in the last five years. I know it's much cheaper than using disposables (around $300-$1000 total versus $1700-2000 for disposables), much greener (better for the planet), and much cleaner as well (less diaper rash, and blowouts). So, even though it sounds like a wonderful idea, honestly I'm a little concerned about cleaning all those diapers. Listen I hate poop as much as the next person, and the idea that I would have to clean it up is enough to almost make me think twice about this whole endeavor. But then I found out that they have all sorts of different options out there now for cloth diapering. 2 in 1's where you actually have a disposable/flushable insert, all in ones - which are convenient, one-size diapers that fit infancy through toddlerhood, and many others just to name a few. All this information can be confusing and difficult to navigate. Plus since it's not really all that popular (yet), there aren't a whole lot of options in the stores where you can go and see them for yourself. So when I heard about about http://www.uncommonbottom.com/ from my friend Aimee, I went there, educated myself, and then quickly booked a little home consult for myself which then quickly turned into a home consult for me and my twenty closest friends.

Uncommon Bottom is a local company started by a mom who wanted to cloth diaper. Now she does home consults, and sells the different cloth diapers on her website. I am having Laina (the owner) come and give a little information night where she will go through all the different options of cloth diapering, and narrow down with me a brand, and type that we think will be best for us and our situation. Plus she will go through all of the most common misconceptions, and frequently asked questions. I'm hoping it will help alleviate some of my fears about the whole thing, since I really would love to save some money, and help the planet at the same time. Now I want to give a little disclaimer here. Just because I'm having this cloth diaper get-together doesn't mean I'm 100% sold on the idea. Honestly, I might decide after being educated on the whole process that it isn't just for me. And that's totally okay. I just feel like I can't make a really good decision without finding out all the facts and seeing them up close for myself.

So, if you are prego, or planning on being sometime soon, or have a baby in diapers, or are just interested in learning more about cloth diapering, leave me a comment with your e-mail and I will send you an invite to my cloth diapering information night. Or, you can e-mail me directly at naptimenostalgia{at}hotmail{dot}com. I'd love to see you there.

Also, I totally understand if you think I'm nuts and you love disposables diapers. I used to too.

LOST RECAP -- AND THE QUOTE YOU PROBABLY MISSED

2010-04-02T14:16:00.004-06:00

SPOILER ALERT: LOST RECAP & THOUGHTS FOR EPISODE AIRING MARCH 30TH~

Okay, so here are some of my thoughts about Tuesday night's Lost episode.

On Island:

Episode starts with someone looking through night vision goggles at the Losties following Smocke. We later come to find out that odds are it's Widmore's people from Hydra island scouting out the place for Jin.
Okay, now is as good a time as any I suppose. Let's discuss this cave where all the candidates names were that Smocke showed Sawyer. Okay, first off, do we believe this is really the correct list? I highly doubt for some reason that this is/was Jacob's cave. I'm thinking this is Smokey's interpretation of the candidates. For example Kate's name was crossed off in the cave, yet she was a candidate or option in Jacob's lighthouse thingy. So, in the end will it be Smokey's bad that he doesn't think Kate is of importance (other than to get the other Losties on the plane) as he tells Claire? For some reason I am thinking this might be a big screw up on his part. The way the island can continue (because of her) even if she & Smocke can somehow talk Jack and the others on the plane and off the island. Just a thought. Could be way off here. Again love the light and dark. Smokey has a cave, Jacob a lighthouse.
Why is poor Miles always playing games in every episode? That kid needs something to do!
Loved the whole Miles/pilot interaction where he says, "unless Richard is covered in bacon grease, I'm not sure Hurley could track him." And then the best line, "Hey, don't talk about bacon."
Anyone else feel like Jack is really slipping himself into the whole Jacob role? All faith, and calm and stuff? No more doctor, angry, power trip Jack here.
Love that Sun doesn't trust Smocke. Smart lady. She knows she's being used.
Again, I must ask, why will none of the other women (Sun, Kate, Ilana) will share their shampoo, smoothing creams, or brushes with Claire? Can they not see the situation that is forming atop her head? She is three seconds away from a full head of dreads. Just so funny that Claire's hair looks like a rats nest, and Sun's looks almost nice.
Poor Jin, locked up in room 23. Finds out Widmore's crew took him for the electromagnetism information maps that Jin drew up back when he worked for the Dharma.
Loved the question Sawyer poses about Smokey flying his ass over the water to the other island. "Oh, cause that'd be ridiculous". Love it.
Smocke has a little conversation with Widmore. Seems those two are not on the same side, like I once thought. A wise man once said, "War is coming to this island." If I'm not mistaken, I thought that was Widmore who said that to Ben. Am I right?
How sweet was it that Jin got to see his daughter for the first time? Very touching. Come see the softer side of Widmore. Awwwwww.
Widmore tells him about the package. Who ends up being Desmond. Now. Desmond. I'm thinking he was brought back because we've been told (by Eloise) that the island wasn't finished with him yet, and we've also been shown that he is different. Doesn't react the same way when exposed to electromagnetism and time and space travel etc.. So, perhaps he is the key. Maybe he will end up saving the island and having the ultimate showdown with Smokey.

Off The Island:

I am beginning to really enjoy these flash sideways lives. Interesting to me how they usually somehow mirror or echo what is going on on the island. For example Jin being captured, and Sun only being able to speak Korean.
I think it was to Jin's advantage that the 25 grand was confiscated. Bought him some time. Interesting that Sun & Jin aren't married, yet are still very much involved.
Really quick, did anyone else notice Sun looking into the mirror in the hotel room? And Jack looked in the mirror in his flash sideways? I'm thinking Sun is the candidate. Something about looking into mirrors, and Jacob's mirrors, that somehow connects them as candidates in my opinion.
How creepy is that Keamy guy? He is just sooooo evil.
Mikal enters the scene. Fun to see him again. Remember him from the Dharma? You might remember that he used to wear and eye patch. Again, very creepy.
Okay, now I would like to discuss a little conversation and quote that you probably missed that I'm pretty sure is huge. It's really confusing, and I'm not sure what it means, but it was a two second blurb, that you probably missed. If you've got it recorded, go back and listen. It's worth it. Trust me. So Keamy and Jin are in the fridge of the restaurant, tying him up, and, I could be mistaken (cause I had to rewind it about 4 times to be sure) but I think Keamy says to Jin "hold still okay, I'm going to strap you in here, just in case you figure out what's about to happen to your island. Can't have you freaking out." Um, What?!?!?!!?? Did he (Keamy) just mention the island in a flash sideways??!!! Crazy. I even made Hubs listen to the line again, and we both have decided that yes, he definitely mentions the island. I think this is the first time someone has mentioned the island in a flash sideways. I guess Ben's dad did in Ben's flash sideways when he talked about the dharma initiative, but he was talking about the island as it was in the past. Not like Keamy discussing it as it is now, or in the future as it could be. I mean, this whole quote is huge~!!! Wonder what it all means!
Creepy that Mikal ends up getting shot in the eye by Jin. Same eye as the one with the patch on the island. Really hope Sun somehow ends up being okay pregnant and all.

Okay, so those are my thoughts about Tuesday's episode. Have any more to add?

WE HAD EIGHT YEARS OF BUSH AND CHENEY, NOW YOU GET MAD!?

2010-03-28T14:48:00.001-06:00

We had eight years of Bush and Cheney, Now you get mad!?

You didn't get mad when the Supreme Court stopped a legal recount and
appointed a President.

You didn't get mad when Cheney allowed Energy company officials to dictate
energy policy.

You didn't get mad when a covert CIA operative got outed.

You didn't get mad when the Patriot Act got passed.
You didn't get mad when we illegally invaded a country that posed no threat to us.

You didn't get mad when we spent over 600 billion(and counting) on said illegal war.

You didn't get mad when over 10 billion dollars just disappeared in Iraq.

You didn't get mad when you found out we were torturing people.

You didn't get mad when the government was illegally wiretapping Americans.

You didn't get mad when we didn't catch Bin Laden.

You didn't get mad when you saw the horrible conditions at Walter Reed.

You didn't get mad when we let a major US city, New Orleans, drown.
You didn't get mad when we gave a 900 billion tax break to the rich.

You didn't get mad when the deficit hit the trillion dollar mark.

You finally got mad when the government decided that people in America deserved the right to see a doctor if they are sick. Yes, illegal wars, lies, corruption, torture, stealing your tax dollars to make the rich richer, are all okay with you, but helping other Americans...oh hell no.

IS THIS HELL?

2010-03-24T10:05:00.004-06:00

SPOILER ALERT. LOST RECAP AND SUCH FOR EPISODE AIRING MARCH 23RD!~~

Okay, so I finally get my Richard episode, and it's well, just eh. I mean, I loved it, cause it was LOST, but I really feel like I didn't learn a whole lot. Just had some previous thoughts and hunches confirmed. But that doesn't mean there isn't much to discuss. So let's get right to it. And we're off. . . .

ON THE ISLAND:

So the episode starts off with a little information about how Jacob and Ilana met. She is the ultimate Jacob protector. Then, we are hit with a little fireside chat involving Jack, Hurley, Sun, Richard/Ricardo, Miles, the pilot and Ilana. We learn that Ilana is told by Jacob that Richard will know what to do next, since I'm assuming Jacob's dead and the island is without it's fearless leader.
K, so that leads us into this next whole enchilada that bitter Richard is now convinced, since Jacob's dead, that he has been lying this whole time and that the island is in fact hell. That he is dead, and that they all are. And that the island is basically purgatory. One thing that confuses me about this theory that Flocke/Smokey/MIB proposes to Richard is that Ben and the oceanic 6 have all gotten off the island. Sure they came back, but they got off. And I guess my question then is, how do you get out of "hell"? Very confusing.
Richard decides to leave and go find Smokey and let him know that he has decided to switch sides and follow him.
Now there was so much religious mumbo jumbo going on in this episode that it was almost too Biblical if you ask me. Slightly too much for my liking. I mean, I like a good parallel, allegory even, but this was a bit much.
Hurley and Richard have and Isabella have a Ghost moment. It's touching, and slightly lame all at the same time. Hurley tells him that Isabella wants Richard to stop the man in black from leaving the island, and if he doesn't they all will go to hell (at least according to Isabella). Confused much?
But on a quick little side note here, what if it is all just about Hurley? The ultimate connector. Man he is awesome. I just love his character, especially when I found out that ultimately he wasn't even supposed to be a main character, but the pilot audiences responded so well to them that the writers decided to keep him. Three cheers for Hurley/Hugo.

So, some thoughts. So all these seasons and episodes I've thought Richard was the ultimate and knew so much, but really, he is just as clueless and you and me. Nice. Although I do think it will be fun to go back and watch all the seasons again some day just for fun, now that we know what we know. Ya know? Ha. So, in my opinion, the episode was definitely necessary in order for them to tie up loose ends, and make sense of the whole series, but since I knew most of the stuff already I didn't find it very enlightening. No new info, really, just more questions. Ahh, the awesome-ness that is LOST. Love it.

RICHARD'S PAST:

K, so we know that he lived originally in the 1600s. His wife was dying and tries to ultimately save her, and ends up accidentally killing a man, and being thrown in jail. I think it's nice that he's passing his time in the slammer productively -- learning English. Then we meet the corrupt Priest, who will not accept his penance, then he ultimately ends up selling him. Not sure how a priest has all that power, but whatever. I must say between this episode and all the stuff going on in the press, it's not a great time to be a catholic. Sheesh.
My suspicions were confirmed about Richard coming to the island as a slave via the Black rock. Thought it interesting that Smokey refrains from killing him. Ultimately I'm sure it's so that he can use Richard to his advantage.
Thought the pig eating all the dead guys was pretty gross. But nice to see the pig finally getting some revenge after years of wonderful BBQ. ;)
Richard sees his dead wife. Strange, not sure about that part. Maybe Richard is dead? How can smokey get her again, if she is already dead? So weird, although it's not the first time we've seen dead people on the island (Jack's dad).
The man in black comes to recruit Richard to kill Jacob. MIB tells him that this is hell, and the devil is Jacob. Is it strange that I think that the MIB is sorta hot? For an old guy. On vacation we were talking about old hot guy celebrity crushes, and I had a hard time coming up with one, but now I pick the devil. Or not-the devil -smokey, or MIB. Whatever. Moving along. Richard fails in his task to kill Jacob. How creepy was it for MIB to say, "It's good to see you out of those chains?" Hmmmm. Sounds a bit like something Jesus might say,no?
Find out that the black rock destroyed the statue, and that he must again kill Jacob before he speaks. Only one chance. He says that the devil betrayed him, and took his body. But really, if were are speaking biblically, that we know that the real Devil was the one to never receive a body. So is MIB the devil, or Jacob? Decisions decisions.
For someone that's supposed to be "good" Jacob can sure pack a punch. A bit violent if you ask me. Also a bit brisk, and bossy too. I'm not sure I like Jacob in this episode. Is this so I will maybe consider him as the Devil? Probably. Jacob reassures him that he's not in hell, and that he's not dead. Jacob says, "No one comes in unless I invite them in" while pouring wine. Hmmmm again with the jesus mubo jumbo. Jacob tells Richard he brings ships, and planes to the island for the sole purpose of proving Smokey wrong. This seems a bit like messing with people's free agency if you ask me. Tells him the island is the cork, keeping the darkness/evil/devil inside. He says that Smokey thinks that everyone is corruptible, and that it's in everyone's nature to sin. Jacob wants to prove him wrong, but without telling them what to do. Jacob doesn't want to force them or step in. That's not very christ-like. Oh man. Confusing. At first I thought that this was just like the bible. God giving everyone their free will. However, that free will came with a price. A savior--if we are speaking biblically and you believe that. So, Jacob wants everyone to choose good, without having to tell them to do so. So pretty much he is asking Richard to be his representative to tell the people to do good so he doesn't have to. Then Richard asks him to bring his wife back, says he can't. Then Richard asks to be forgiven of his sins, Jacob apparently can't do that either. Which doesn't sound very God or Christ-like. But living forever, he can do. That seems kind of creepy and almost like he is making a deal with the "devil." So, who's the devil, and who is good? Oh, so confusing. Just like I like it. Smokey tells him that Jacob can be very convincing. Just like the devil. And that his offer still stands.
My favorite scene though was the one with Jacob and MIB. Riveting in every way. I was trying to dissect that entire conversation. Who is good? Who is evil, and who darn it, is the devil? And does good gloat? MIB says he just desperately wants to leave. Jacob says he can't leave as long as he is alive. But --- and big but here, isn't Jacob dead now? Real time I mean? So why hasn't smokey left yet? Is it because of the the candidates? Seems like a lot of killing needs to happen. And only with that one sword, and only through the chest, and only if he doesn't speak first. Ugg, that is a lot of rules. Thought it weird that Jacob gives MIB wine to pass the time, and he breaks it? What was that all about? Are we to think that all MIB has to do, is break the glass, and he's free? If only it were so simple.

So, my head is spinning, and I'm loving it still. I'm hoping there will be some more information soon about Ilana. I still can't believe she has such a big role in the whole island Jacob thing, but yet we don't really know a lot about her. But I really can't wait till the next episode, where we can get back to all the other losties and their crazy antics. I've missed them.

OFFICER SAWYER?

2010-03-23T21:48:00.003-06:00

Yay, okay so it's time for a little LOST recap. Spoiler alert. This is for the episode airing on 3/16, so if ya haven't seen it yet, ya might want to hit next blog. And so we begin.

FLASH SIDEWAYS:

Well, so Sawyer is still a conman. Only this time, he's on the right side of the law. So did not see that one coming. Sawyer as a cop. Kinda reminded me of when he was the security guy for the Dharma initiative. Pretty much basically the same guy, only not. Inneresting. Loving that miles is his partner. Love that the go word was "LaFleur". Classic.
Saw in the recap ep, that Sawyer is looking for Cooper, the guy who killed his family, which is also John Locke's father, who eventually did make it onto the island and held prisoner by the others. And then Sawyer got to kill him? Remember? Vaguely? yeah, me too.
Nice to see Charlotte again. Nice to see she wasn't a total beotch like on the island. Too bad he doesn't call her ginger in the flash sideways like he did on the island, but I have to say it was nice to see her all glammed up instead of spewing blood all over the place. But, in all honesty, seeing Charlotte again mostly just made me miss Daniel Faraday. He really was one of the best Lost characters wasn't he?
Not sure about the fact that he watches Little House On The Prarie. Downgrades his hotness a bit if you ask me.

ISLAND THOUGHTS:

Okay, how creepy is Claire's baby thing? Ewww. And does that dharma initiative not have any leftover hair brushes or hair smoothing cream, cause Claire could really use some. Oh, and some prozac.
How weird is Sayid acting? So am not a fan. Interesting that he and Claire have the same "sickness" only it makes Sayid placid, and boring and Claire, wacked out and crazy. Does this mean that the "sickness" affects people in different ways depending on their personalities or something. They are both such departures from their previous selves.
Lets talk Fake Locke. How strange is it, that in this episode the writers wanted to make him off as almost fatherly? (Oh there it is again -- daddy issues). He comforts, he understands, he tells the truth, he breaks up fights, he's insightful, he's consoling. He's so nice, I almost want to call him up and make lunch plans, except then I remember that he kills people. And that's kind of terrible.
Locke finally admits out loud that he is the smoke monster to Sawyer, and sends him to hydra island on a little mission. Tells him it's because, "he is the best liar he knows." Now, has smokey been following the Losties lives as well as Jacob? Or is this a Locke thought? Anyway, he finds his old stomping grounds where he was held hostage with freckles. Finds her dress. Ahh, little lost moment. Remember when Flocke/Smokey told Ben to go to hydra island? Maybe he wanted Ben to run into Widmore and have him killed. Just a little thought.
Locke has a little sit down with Kate where he unleashes his mommy issues. His mom was crazy. Says he still has issues with her. Yeah, well welcome to the club Smokey. My only crazy thought here, is what if he's just using Locke's past thoughts and life to draw sympathy from Kate, playing the crazy-mom card. That whole Aaron bit. Plus, is it just me, or does Smokey, talk and sound an awful lot like Locke? Using even the same phrases etc. Is this just a misstep on the writers parts? I highly doubt it. They seem to be pretty keen on details. My head is all a flutter at who Smokey's mother will turn out to be, if she exists, that is! I really hope she makes an appearance at some point if she does. Oh the possibilities! If her name however ends up being Rebekah, as in the bible story Jacob and Esau, well, that would make a lot of sense. Just a little thought there.
But Claire almost killing Kate at the beginning of the episode, to hugging it out at the end seems a bit much to me.
So the whole double scheme, con Sawyer is pulling on Fake Locke/Smokey and Widmore is awesome. He's not on either team (Jacob or Smokey), he's on team Sawyer. Can't wait to see who he ends up conning in the end. I finally feel though, like he really, really, really wants to get off the island this time. In the past it's just sorta been like it feels like he only kinda wants to get off the island. But now, he really does. Like he realizes that if he gets off, he might get to see Juliet again somehow.
Now, for just a moment I want to discuss the dumb locked door in the sub, cause well, they pointed it out and made such a point of doing so, that I think someone or something is inside of it, that will affect the story somehow. I'm hoping it's Daniel Farraday of course.
And on a side note, can I just say that I HATE, how Lost keeps introducing all these new groups of characters? First its the one plane crash with the original losties, then it's the tailers (those that were in the tail end), then it's the others, then Rosseu, then it's the dharma initiative, then its the freighters, then the other flight, then Ilana's people, then it's the temple people, then it's the new "team smokey" people, and now it's Widmore's sub characters. It's just so much to keep straight. And really, do we need any more new characters when there are only like 8 episodes left? Yeah, I didn't think so either.
Really, really, really, excited about tonights episdoe. I've been asking and asking for a Richard ep, and apparently it's finally here. So, I'm going to stop typing, and go watch, and revel in it. Oh, how I love you lost.
And just one final thought. What if, and I am really hoping here, that Hurley is the answer to it all? How cool would that be? I mean, I'm just sayin'.

LOST IS AN EXTRA SIX MINUTES LONG TONIGHT

2010-03-23T18:00:00.003-06:00

K, just a quick little update to let you all know that tonight's LOST will run six minutes longer than usual. You might want to adjust your DVRs and Tivos stat since we both know that the last few minutes of lost are often times full of more information and answers than the full sixty minutes that preceded them. So yeah, go adjust those recorders now.

Also, wanted you to know that I am back from my little vacation and blogging hiatus. I've got a few blog posts a brewin'. Here is what I've got on tap for Naptime in the next few days:

Last weeks lost recap & thoughts. This might be up a bit later. I watched it whilst on vacation so I wasn't able to take as thorough notes as I normally do since I had no idea where to find a single piece of paper, which was lovely. And notes in my head seem to get jumbled. I am going to watch last weeks ep again tonight and then post my thoughts after that. Sorry it's a week late. People gotta vacate yo. And I will also post my thoughts on tonight's ep probably in the a.m. once I've let my thoughts simmer and stew.
A little update on the baby in utero. Just had another ultrasound today for some issues I'm having. So yeah, I'm sure that one will be riveting.
A little health care post. My thoughts, as well as some really helpful links breaking down the whole thing into much more understandable language.
Vacation recap. Don't want to let go of Cali just yet.
and last but not least, my new job post. Lame that I haven't gotten around to that yet.

So there ya have it. Hope you stop by in a few to check em all out. Later.

LIFE IS GOOD

2010-03-16T13:33:00.004-06:00

So, I hijacked Hanski's computer to do a quick post. The beach house is absolutely amazing. Impeccable in every way. It is like heaven to go to sleep and wake up to the waves. Staring all day every day at a unobscured view of the beach and ocean is incredible. Nothing quite like it, really. The patio of the house leads right down to a small patch of grass perfect for morning yoga, then goes right into sandy beach which is warm and lovely, and about fifty steps later straight down to the pacific. The water is a bit chilly, but was perfect today as I road out in the kayak just because I could. I am loving every minute of this vacation. The living quarters are incredible, the company pure hilariousness, and good times are being had by all. Best point of the day so far has been my bowl of frosted flakes that I ate right on the beach. It's a balmy 80 degrees out, which is perfect in my book. I'm appropriately sunburned, and as Bob Marley plays in the background I am reminded that heaven does exist here on earth, in little slices of perfection that must be acknowledged in order for the universe to keep them coming. Boys are out getting Pina Cola mix, and the ladies are all chilling on the deck reading our various beach books, enjoying our title as the grand champions of catchphrase after last nights blowout. The ocean crashing in the background is just what this mama needs right now. I am eternally grateful for this little getaway sans kids, and am feeling absolutely and completely content at this moment. Gratitude must be given to the grandmas for stepping up big time to watch the kiddos. Missing them much, but thoroughly enjoying being able to spend some time with my first true love.

In all honesty I could go on and on. Everything about this vacation, including the day we spent yesterday cruising around So Cal in the convertible Mercedes has been almost surreal. And my favorite part? That it's only day 4. Many more to come. Big ups to the Hoddogs, Hubricks, Shawsters, and Hacketts for making this vacation all out incredible. It is tax season after all.

Catch all you bloggers on the flip side when I can download a few pics of the pure and total awesomeness that is Wale Rock beach house down in So Cal. I'm off to go lay in the sun.

DR. LINUS?

2010-03-10T18:42:00.003-07:00

First off, I want to say thanks to everyone who commented about my weird pregnancy skin thing. It's nice to know people care. I have a hunch that it just might a been those darn oranges. I stayed away from them today, and I've felt a lot better. Not itch free, but better. So thanks for the concern.

Okay dudes, lets talk LOST.

So how friggin' awesome was this episode? Right? I mean, it took me right back to the good old flash back days. Just loved the whole thing. And honestly, it was a nice break from the rat race that seems to being going on, on the island. So, without further ado, let's discuss.

Okay, first off, I don't want to admit it, but I'm actually finding myself liking Ben? What? This show really is crazy. So, Ben in the flash sideways, as a teacher talking about Napoleon? How classic. Exiled on an island, yet missing his power? Hmmmm. Awful familiar writers. Very sneaky.

FLASH SIDEWAYS THOUGHTS

We find in the flash sideways that Alex still isn't Ben's daughter, yet they have a "father/daughter" type relationship. Again with the daddy issues.
Love how Locke interjects the idea to Ben in the flash to disrupt life and become the principle. Inneresting. Spooky.
Also think it's interesting to point out that Ben takes care of his father, and they seem to have a very healthy relationship. And instead of killing him with poison like on the island, he is helping him stay alive by giving him oxygen. Very ironic. We also find a real clue about the flash sideways, that at least for Ben and Roger we find out that they did go to the island and work with the Dharma initiative, and that at some point they got off. At least in the flash sideways life. Again with the daddy issues though.
Love that we are finding that this internal struggle within Ben for power and to do what is right, is something that's with him even off the island. And I love that in the flash sideways he does justice right, and redeems himself, and this time saves Alex instead of going for the power. Love the allegory. And in the end he even gives up his parking space? How very un-Ben Linus of you Ben Linus.

ON THE ISLAND ISSUES

We find out that Jacob, up until the moment he was killed, thought that it wouldn't happen. Not sure what this means. But thought it was interesting enough to note. Ilana finds out Ben killed him, and she gets pissed. Rightfully so, as she was his bodyguard. We also learn that Jacob was the closest thing she ever had to a father. Does this mean off the island? On the island? So many questions. . .
I have lots of thoughts about Miles and Lapidus. Especially Lapidus. How even though he missed his flight (815) by sleeping in, he still ended up on the island. In effect, he was meant to get on that island. Still not really sure of Miles role in this whole mess. Is he just there to give us funny one-liners and dig up diamonds?
We find out that Ilana is now protector of the candidates. And that candidates replace Jacob. Still don't know if Kwon is meant for Sun or Jin. But we do know there are six candidates. Six left anyhow. . .
Jack now seems to be a different person all of a sudden. Almost feels like I missed an episode on him or something. Or maybe he just really did learn a lot about life from staring off into the ocean that last ep. All content, and full of faith. And out pops Richard. He takes Jack and Hurley off to the Black Rock, which I am assuming the writers want us to believe is how Richard originally came to the island (so very long ago), perhaps as a slave (the chains)? Nice parallel that even though he gets freed from those chains as a slave at some point, he ends up a slave to Jacob in a way. We find that it's Richards first time back to the Black Rock. A possible answer to a question? I can't believe it! Well, a guided answer at least. We find out that Richard wants to die, but can't because he has been given some "gift" or curse depending on how you see it. He has been given eternal life, by just a touch from Jacob. We learn he can't kill himself. And that he's really bitter about that. He thinks he devoted his life in service to a man who told him that he was part of a plan, and now he thinks his life was in vain. Yeah, he's pretty pissed. Love when Hurley says, "He's crazy, and I know crazy." Jack doesn't think that anyone can die on the island until their job on the island is done. Where does all this faith come from? Does he think that Jacob is coming back? Maybe three days later?
Smokey/Locke comes to recruit Ben. Tells him he needs Ben to be in charge of the island. Dangles that power in front of him like a carrot. Tells him that him and his followers (Jin, Kate, Claire, Sayid, Sawyer) are all at the hydra station on the other island, and leaves a way for been to survive and escape. Ben goes for it. Interesting that he knows just what to dangle in front of Ben. Power. His ultimate temptation.
Onto my very favorite segment in the entire episode. Emmy winning, actually, in my humble opinion. Ben explains to Ilana that he knows how she feels. Betrayed by Jacob. And why he killed Jacob. That he regrets how Alex died. That he had a chance to save Alex, but gave it up for the island. All in the name of Jacob. He realizes and explains that he is sorry he killed Jacob. He asks to leave, and go with Locke, she asks why, and he says that very powerful awesome line, "Because he is the only one that will have me." and she beautifully replies with, "I'll have you." Oh forgiveness, how sweet you are. Loved it. Loved it. Loved it.
Then for the good Ben returning to the beach, being accepted by Sun. The reunion of Jack, Hurley, and Richard.
Then the most wackadoodle part of the whole episode. We see a really crappy fake looking submarine scope pop out of the water. The guy spies the people on the beach, and asks Widmore (Widmore!!) if he wants to go through with the plan. Widmore says yes, in a very gloom, and doom like manner. At first I thought he was gonna blast Linus. Classic. Ben is finally good, or at least his goodness is seen, and then bam, dead on the beach. But not so much. We're not sure what this plan is, but I'm thinking it's not a good one. What a great way to end the episode. Awesome cliffhanger.

OTHER THOUGHTS

I'm beginning to see the line between two sides firmly being drawn in the sand. Smoke monster/Locke versus Jacob. Not sure who's side Widmore lands on, but I'm thinking Smokey.
How is it that Widmore was able to find the island this time? Is it because Jacob is now dead?
Okay, how many times can I be reminded that there is only 9 episodes left? And what kind of pathetic sneak peak for next week was that? I'm guessing we are gonna finally get back to Sawyer and what's up with him, but ya never can be sure with a terrible teaser like that. Oh well.
I really, really, really enjoyed this episode. I think it's because I've always loved Ben, even though I used to think he was creepy and evil. His character is so deep and controversial and mysterious. Love learning more about him. And that bad doesn't always equal bad. There is some good in Ben. Loving this whole episode. I feel redeemed in a way, since I was less than impressed with some of the previous episodes this season. Again, I'm still just enjoying the ride. Not really sure they can tie up all the loose ends and answers, but I'm also not sure I'd want them too. However, it would be nice to know how the polar bears got there. But I guess we kinda know that the island can be moved, so maybe that's the answer. If that's all we're getting on the polar bears though, I'll be slightly ticked. But all in all, I give a 10 out of 10 to this ep. And a big two thumbs up to the actor that plays Ben.

If you have any other further thoughts on the subject feel free to comment away. I love to hear what y'all think.

ITCHING FOR RELIEF

2010-03-09T15:39:00.003-07:00

So I think I'm about to go insane! I've got some sort of weird allergy going on where my entire body is itching. I'm not sure if it's something I ate, or what, but literally my entire body itches (my scalp, arms, belly, legs, feet, hands), and is red and has these huge bumps all over it. This craziness started on Sunday. Around 2 p.m. every day my body just flares up and itches. It happened yesterday too, and today it's even worse. Yesterday I took some bennedryl and that helped after about an hour or so, so I think I'm going to go take another just as soon as I'm done here, but this has got to stop. So, I'm begging, pleading rather, to see if anyone knows what this possibly could be, and what I might do to stop it. I went to see my doctor this morning, and he said since the benedryl is helping, it's probably allergies of some sort. So helpful. But I guess my question is how on earth do I figure out whats bugging me? I haven't changed laundry detergent, hair stuff, face stuff, makeup or anything, so I'm thinking it must be food. But how do I figure it out? Do I only eat fruits and slowly add stuff back in? The only thing that I've done differently, is well, I sort of flubbed on my giving up sugar for lent. Saturday night I gave in and had some samoas. Those dang girl scout cookies! So, could it possibly be some sort of weird reaction to sugar after cutting it out for three weeks? Doesn't really seem likely since I always ate sugar before. The only other weird thing is some oranges that I bought from some neighbor kid for a fundraiser arrived on Friday and I have been eating about 2 a day since we have a friggin fridge full. But other than that, everything has been status quo. I'm pretty much a creature of habit, and don't really like to try new things, so I am completely baffled as to what this could be. Any ER nurses out there been seeing weird stuff like this lately? I'm a little concerned since I'm prego, but my doctor didn't seem all that worried, so I just don't know. I'm not worried about the baby, just that I might go mad, and scratch my skin off or something. This is crazy. It feels kinda like I usually do after a c-section and the meds are all wearing off, and you get that itchy feeling. Kinda like that, only times ten. So, yeah, if you know of any home remedies, or any idea what this might be, or how to figure out what it is, please, please leave a comment.

My skin thanks you.

WOW. LOOK AT ME POSTING AGAIN

2010-03-05T08:30:00.003-07:00

I learned from Marta's online blogging workshop to not jumble lots of ideas into posts. To give each idea it's own post. But I learned from myself that I'm too lazy to do that. Beware, this is a long one friends.

So I started this early morning walking group a few weeks ago and I am LOVING it. It's early, but not too early, and briskly energizing, but not too fast, and the perfect amount of people and talk. You know how I love to talk. I love running different ideas I have past them, and can see how much just spending an extra few hours a week with certain people has the tendency to form strong bonds and relationships. Not sure I am getting any more in shape, but at least I can sleep better knowing that at least I've done some sort of exercise. I had to let go of my gym membership cause it was too pricey for the amount I was using it, and needed an alternate form of exorcise. Last time I woke up this early on a regular basis, was for a running group. Now I loved the group, but hated the running. But this walking thing is perfect. I'm sure some wished we went faster, but in all honesty, I'm loving the pace, the route, the women. Everything. In fact I would go so far as to recommend a early morning walking group to every woman out there. Something so great and important for women and mothers especially to move their bodies daily, and talk and foster good friendships with women. My early walks accomplish both.
So, I think I am addicted to Winder Dairy milk. We get it delivered every Monday and I just love it. Lately for whatever reason, we are consuming more milk (probably cause of the pure awesomeness of it) and we've run out by Friday. So a few weeks ago I sent Hubs (big mistake) to pick up milk, and being the saver that he is, he got generic milk and not Winder Dairy. And yes there is a large difference on price, but also a large difference in taste. Skim Winder is creamy, but not too creamy, and hormone and antibiotic free, and just delish. Generic skim milk is like drinking white water. Ewwww.
I don't want to even discuss this since it's just plain terrible, but I feel it must be mentioned. Jake chose Vienna. Just like reality steve said. At first I was ticked, and then I realized that I hate Jake, and think he's a total dork, and deserves crazy-eyes Vienna. Even though I think they are both horrible (how uncomfortable was that whole date with his parents?--awkward) and belong together, I still give them only 6 months max. Unless ABC says they will pay them to get married and do it on TV, in which case, they will be married in six months, and divorced in 3. I know I'm ruthless and mean. Is it just me, or are her eyes weird?
So, one of the reasons my blogging has been severely lacking is that I got a job. And I love it. And I think this one deserves it's own post, so I will keep you in suspense till I can get around to blogging about it.
I think it's crazy that even with baby number three I am still so huge. I'm always one to show right away when I'm prego. Then I stick straight out. And I look 9 months, even though I'm only like five and a half or something. I am way bigger than this lady I saw who is due in two weeks. And way larger than the other gals in my ward due a good month ahead of me. Oh well. Whaddaya do. I guess I need to realize that this is just what my body does pregnant. The end.
So, I gave up Sugar for Lent. Can see no noticeable difference in the three weeks since I gave it up, other than I was shocked at how much sugar I ate each day. It's no longer hard for me to pass it up though. Although sometimes I crave gummy bears. I'm thinking though that it would have been more appropriate to give up my late night snack. Which I thought giving up sugar would accomplish, since my 8 p.m. snack was usually a handful of gummy bears. No dice. Now it's yogurt, or cereal, or dried apples or raw cashews. Something. So I decided to go ahead and give that up too, cause I'm realizing that would be the big sacrifice. So, starting last night I gave it up. Oh, and just so you know, tums don't count. Yes, the heartburn has begun. So no sugar or anything after dinner until Easter. In which case I hope to start incorporating sugar back in on a limited basis, but still do without the late night snack. We'll see how it goes.
Have loved the warmer days. This snow today though is throwing me off and I dislike it.
The nursery is coming along, although I've done nothing yet, but change furniture around. First I like one table, then another, then another. As of today I have decided to paint the dresser/change table a deep dark turquoise. This might change by the time I make it to home depot and get the desire to actually paint. Still want grey walls. Mulling over the idea of painting the crib. Think it might be a bit much though. Found out it's $500 to reupholster the rocking chair/recliner that I LOVE. Might swing by RC willey and see how much it is to replace it altogether. I love that darn chair though, it's the perfect height, rocks, and reclines, and is comfy as all getout, but the light suede, has been through two kids and either needs a good cleaning--which I'm not sure will be enough, or reupholster. Still mulling this one over. Decided Hubs is going to build me a book shelf thing for the nursery. I am thinking it's going to be really easy and awesome. At least in my head it already is. I will be sure to post pictures if it happens.
Thing 1 has had a huge growth spurt in the past month. All his jeans have holes in the knees and are now three inches too short. He sure does rock the floods well though. Just can't justify new jeans at this point in the season though. Does this make me a terrible mom? I think I'll just buy him new longer socks.
Oh and keeping with Thing 1 --to keep the high top conversation at bay I told him that before he can get a pair he needed to learn how to tie. (I've never seen velcro high tops--have you?) So now he wants to spend a good half hour each day practising tieing his shoes. We still are nowhere close. And I think in fact, I'd rather listen to high-top talk than teach shoe tying. He got a haircut last week though, and darn if he isn't the cutest little guy.
I'm getting released on Sunday after 3.5 years in the Relief Society presidency. I have mixed feelings about this. First I was really excited, and now I'm kinda sad. I love change, and feel it's time, but wow, it's gonna be different. Got a new calling already. Released and sustained all in one day. So much for that break I was hoping for. This calling though I think is going to be a lot less intense. And will be a change for sure. I don't want to spill the beans on it just yet, but I'm sure I'll tell you sometime next week after it's official.
I'm starting to get slightly freaked out about new baby. He is growing so fast and now is kicking and punching so hard you can not just feel it, but see it from the outside. It freaked my kids out at first, and I thought that was funny. But now it's to that stage, when about an hour after I've eaten, he get so wiggly that it starts to make me a bit nauseous. I'm not complaining though. I am relishing every wiggle. This just might possibly be the last time I'm pregnant. I'm not saying we're done, I'm just saying adoption is looking really nice right about now.
Love that my kids have been just playing spy kids this whole time together that I've been writing this post. They really are best buddies and great kids. I am super lucky. Even though my daughter is getting more and more stubborn, I can't help but love it, cause she is also getting more and more hilarious. She has an awesome personality and man is she smart. Already reading, which I think is pretty neat at 3 and three quarters. We've definitely turned a corner with her, and I love it. I'm a little worried about the new baby though. Either she is going to get really jealous and mean when he arrives, or she will just act like a little mommy. I'm praying it's the latter.
So I signed Thing 1 up for a dual immersion program they have in his school district. I really am hoping he gets in. I would love for him to learn another language. I signed him up for French, Spanish and Chinese. We should know by march 15th. I think it would be great for my kids to be completely fluent in another language by the time they are in 6th grade. Can only be helpful in life by opening up doors and opportunities. He will have to switch schools, but I'm not anticipating this being a big deal since he already goes to a different school than all his friends. I was blown away when I sat in and observed a first grade classroom. The teacher only speaks in the opposite language. All their subjects are taught in that language, all the papers are in that language, and the kids must speak in that language. It's pretty amazing actually to hear first graders speak and understand another language after only a year of immersion. The test scores of these kids tend to be on average higher than kids in a "normal" classroom, so that's great too. I'll let you know if and when, and what language he gets in. Something to look forward to.
Speaking of looking forward, I've got a vacation coming up that I am ecstatic for. It's coming at just the right time. We are going with a big group of friends for a week without kids to Cali. Just exactly what I need right now. A little time away. Thanks Hoddogs for the invite!
Just downloaded some new apps and music to my iphone with a gift certificate to itunes from my mom for valentines day. And they are oh-so-enjoyable. Thanks Mom!

Well, I think I'm just about out of stuff to say. Seems almost impossible I know. Sorry this is so long. I need to post more often. the end.

A REALIZATION ABOUT LOST

2010-03-05T07:05:00.002-07:00

SPOILER ALERT: CONFUSING LOST RECAP COMING UP
So let's talk Lost. Cause apparently that's all I blog about anymore. Sorry it's late again. Fell asleep on Tuesday and Wednesday trying to watch it. Yeah, this pregnancy is kicking my ace. I really do have lots of random thoughts and posts in my head but no time to post, or rather no follow through or desire to post. Again, I blame pregnancy. Maybe I'll do some posting today. Maybe. Maybe not. I wouldn't hold my breath if I were you. But, without further ado, onto LOST. . .

First off, don't you love this Lost Last Supper photo? So interesting. Locke as Jesus? Is this Fake Locke or Locke before he died and his body was taken over? Think it's cool that all the "good" guys are on the right and "bad" on the left. Except for Richard and Ben Linus. And maybe Sayid, and. . . and that brings me right onto my next point.
Good vs. Evil. Light vs. Dark. It's been discussed before in past seasons, but seems as though the theme for this season, and really the central focus of Lost. I remember back when Locke was Locke he was always talking about faith vs. fear and light vs. dark. Nowhere has anyone really mentioned good vs. evil. I think that's just automatically where our simple minds seem to go. light=good. dark=bad. Not necessarily so, it seems.
Remember way back in the first season when Locke says that there are "two sides -one light one dark"? We are so lead to think that Jacob is light (what with his white shirt, and lack of killing) and Fake Locke as dark (what with the dark smoke and killing and all). But what if light and dark just refer to the elements they are able to manipulate? Jacob with the mirrors and light (to spy on potential candidates), and Fake Locke manipulating dark matter with the smoke monster. Or is he the smoke monster? Whatever. You get the point. Light/Dark does not necessarily equal good/evil. Or does it.
I'm over feeling frustrated at this show. I've reached some sort of weird peace. I think I just had such high expectations for the show and characters, but in the end I must realize that whatever is going to happen is going to happen because the writers say so. And that's all. This is pure entertainment, and I have to admit, I've been highly entertained for the past five and a half seasons. Completely and totally Lost, but entertained nonetheless. Instead of being pissed at the way things are turning out, I now feel total and complete respect for the writers and the pure brilliance that they have created. I don't really care how it ends, cause it's just been such a fun ride. You know? And maybe this is just one more big parallel on life. Don't worry so much about how things are going to "end up". Just enjoy the ride, cause before you know it (in 10 more eps apparently) it's all going to be over. And we won't have any more LOST to theorize about (my favorite part). We will have to move onto something less dramatic and hopefully less confusing. Which maybe you're happy about. Me however, I think I'm going to just stop bitching about all the lack of answers and enjoy all the confusion. Cause really, it's been one heck of a crazy ride. And I've loved every toss and turn. Okay, now I'll step off my soap box, and we can theorize.
Again, so back to the good vs. evil. Dogen tells us, and Sayid, that in every person there is a scale. And so this entire episode focused on Sayid and the tragically tortured person he is. And how good and evil can get all jumbled up into one person. Yes he has tortured and killed many, but we've seen time and time again that this man is capable of love. First with Nadia, and then with Shannon. We've also learned that Sayid is a good man, who has done lots and lots and lots of bad things. He's constantly conflicted with the idea of doing a wrong thing for the right reason. Being able to separate this was the entire focus of tonight's episode. And we see this same reoccurring thing in many of the characters. Kate for instance--pretty much a good gal on the island (raising aaron and all, but did kill her step dad.) Jack --obviously good, yet in the flashforward was a druggie, and in the flash sideways not such a great dad. Hmmmm. I could go on and on. Jin, Sun even (remember those crazy eps where she gets off the island?), Sawyer, Ben? I could go on and on. I know there is something we are supposed to gain from all this, but what? We all have light and dark within us, and sometimes it's so close it's hard to discern? In fact, on an even crazier note, maybe the whole island is a person/being and maybe Jacob and Fake Locke are just parts of him? Maybe Jack's dad? Um, yeah, maybe that's a little out there, but if you think about it in larger terms, and I'm totally sorry if I lose you here but, even God -the ultimate good- created or was able to create evil--in Satan. At least I think. Sure Satan chose for himself, but he was one of God's creations. Wow. Okay, back to reality.
Loving all the crossovers of characters in the flash sideways. Jack in the hospital. That evil Seemy guy who likes eggs and SAyid kills. Just so fun. Think it's sad that Sayid, even in the flash sideways can't seem to escape his past. And he still doesn't end up with Nadia. I wonder if this is what he chooses (Nadia) when he makes a deal with the devil (Fake Locke) so to say when he is promised he can have anything in the world. Or out? Hmmmm. I did notice that both Jacob and Fake Locke make promises in order to get people to do stuff.
Did you notice that Dogan still could not kill SAyid, and tried to get Fake Locke to do it? Did Sayid not succeed in his mission to kill Fake Locke cause Fake Locke spoke first, and his mission was to stab him before he spoke, or was it just to piss Fake Locke off? If Dogan could not kill Sayid, was that because he was or is still a candidate? Even if he has died (for 2 hours Miles tells us!) and been brought back? Is he no longer a candidate? Is he evil? And just who exactly brought him back? And I guess I was wrong in my theory that he was Jacob.
Did anyone else find Claire's rendition of "catch a falling star" uber creepy? Not sure I'll ever be able to sing that song again without feeling a tad bit evil.
Where is Sawyer? I would like an update please.
Apparently the smoke monster can not penetrate pits. FYI-If you ever come in contact with him, just jump in a pit.
Where did Illana, the pilot, miles and ben escape to in the wall? Same wall Hurley & Jack left out of. Smoke monster can not penetrate walls either. I am still confused at the crazy, easily spooked Ben. I liked the confident creepy Ben better. I am hoping he gets an episode soon too. And the fact that Ilana is a main character yet we know nothing about her, is strange.
I am still loving Miles and his one-liners. Especially his one about Claire being dirty and crazy but still hot. And to Kate, welcome back to the circus. Indeed!
Thought it was interesting that Dogen came to the island in a similar way that Juliet did. To save someone. His son, her sister.
Smoke Monster kills everyone in the temple (except for those that can jump in Pitts and escape into walls). Sad for them.
Was it just me or did Fake Locke seem genuinely surprised to see Kate? And Kate is now a follower of Fake Locke?

Wow. So many crazy thoughts floating through my head. It's insane. But I really truly am loving it. Sorry this was so long. You can get back to your Friday now. Any additional insignts or thoughts you might have, just leave 'em in the comments. Thanks!

On a side note. Yesterday it was fifty degrees. Today there is six inches of snow, and still falling. Gotta love Spring. I'm out.

LET'S TALK LOST

2010-02-25T11:24:00.002-07:00

Again, sorry for the late post. I had a late night again on Tuesday and didn't get to it until last night, and then was too lazy to post my thoughts. But yeah, here goes nothing.
First off, we got a Hurley ep!!!! Dude!!! Yay! Well, some hurley, mostly Jack. But that's okay, cause any Hurley is good, and only one small scene with Kate equals a very good episode.
Okay, so is it just me or is it classic Lost that they don't even mention Sawyer, after a cliffhanger like last episode? I mean, really. No mention of him at all or the fact that he was about to do some serious evil work? Hopefully they will get back to him soon.
Okay, if this good vs. evil stuff could get any more obvious. It's very Star Wars, and God & Satan of them. Good seems to be equaling all the chosen or "candidates" --Hurley, Jack, Jin & of course Jacob and I'm assuming Richard. Bad=smoke monster, sayid, Claire (we'll get to that whole fiasco in a minute) and possibly others. Kate and Sun we're not really sure about. My only hold up, is that it's sooooooo obvious the info they are feeding us, that I'm sort of assuming some sort of crazy switcheroo. Good really is bad. Bad really is not-so-bad. etc.
Claire. Okay, now I get that they want us to draw a clear parallel to Rosseau what with the crazy hair and traps and stuff, but it's a little too much in my opinion. I like a little more subtlety and mystery personally, but whatever. Plus it's a bit too much of a character change from her previous personality. Not quite believeable or something. Plus, I'm not convinced she is cookoo, but then again I didn't think Rosseau was either. It should be interesting to see how this "illness" Sayid and Claire have all pans out. But that baby in the carriage was slightly bizzare. And killing a guy with a axe, how very axe murderer of you claire.
Let's discuss Jack for a moment. Loved the flash sideways. I immediately was getting a Jack & Kate vibe with David, but then I remembered that in the flash sideways Jack doesn't know Kate. He recognizes her at the airport but really doesn't know her. So I guess that's out. Plus, would Kate really have a bunny hide-a-key? Yeah, I didn't think so. But again, with the father son relationship popping up again. And then the Asain guy(apparently his name is Dogen) pops up in the sideways flash with his son and tells Jack David has a gift. Creepy. However not remembering and it seems for the first time noticing your appendix scar? Um, lame.
Let's discuss the lighthouse scene. Does anyone else think Jack needs anger management classes? What is it with this guy and him bashing stuff in? In all honesty, I thought the whole idea of the lighthouse was a little cheesy. I found it rather contrived and a bit much. Like Hurley said, How had they never stumbled upon this extra-large light tower before? Yeah, right. But the numbers were back again. And then we have Jack gazing out into the oean to find all the answers to life. If only it were that easy.
And finally, I saved the best for last. Best lines of the night of course come from Hurley. Loved that he was able to talk to Jacob even though he's dead. I like this special gift, even if it is a little Haley Joel Osment. (To Jacob) "I just lied to a Samurai" (To Jack) "Very old school man, you and me trekking throught the jungle to do something we don't really understand. Good times." Classic.
So yeah, those are my thoughts. If ya have any input or ideas to add please leave em in the comments. Thanks!

2010-02-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

Do you have a wii fit? Do you actually use it to work out? If so, you must get these cool dumbells that hold a wii controller and nunchuck to up your fitness routine. I saw these on another blog today, and thought, that these were simply genius. If I worked out with my Wii fitt I would totally get these. But mostly we just use the wii fit to laugh at each other as we try to head soccer balls and dodge panda bears, and ski jump and stuff. Apparently you can get these riflex dumbells at amazon.

MATERIAL GIRLS REVIEW

2010-02-17T16:01:00.003-07:00

So, one of my favorite things about blogging is finding out what products, places and things people love. So, back on my nursery post I was lamenting about the fact that I couldn't find ANY good fabric for Thing 3's room. And a few of you mentioned I head out to Material Girls in South Jordan. And I thought, all the way to South Jordan for a fabric store? And oh my was the little drive worth it!!! FANTASTIC fabric. Bolts, and bolts and bolts of the cutest, funnest, most perfect fabrics I've ever seen. If you are any sort of crafty or love to quilt then you must get out there ASAP. And take me when you do! I found a number of options for Thing 3's nursery, which I am now starting to get very excited about. I just looked around the first time, and I wanted to let them ruminate and see which fabrics I was still thinking about a few days later. Yes, I know I'm weird. And I think there are going to be some very fun baby items made in the next few months. Car seat covers, burp rags, quilts, Binky straps, and of course the crib skirt and sheets. So fun!!! Thanks for those of you who recommended I head out there. It was simply delish, and I say that cause it was total and complete eye candy. Five out of five stars!

SPORADIC SMATTERING OF THOUGHTS

2010-02-17T07:56:00.003-07:00

Let's start with the fact that I HATE being sick. Especially when your prego, and can't take anything good to help. Last night's attempt at sleep was pathetic at best. That might factor into the weird/crazy thoughts for today's post. So sorry about that.
Somehow we have inherited some random cat that lives nearby. It comes in our backyard and sits under the shade in the kids plaything. The kids do not like this. For some reason they are TERRIFIED of cats. Which I don't mind, cause I think cats are eery, and evil, and are always looking at you like they know so much and might use it against you. So, my kids spend most of their time at home, yelling at that darn cat and taking their harmonicas, whistles and any other loud item outside trying to shoo it away. The cat just sits there and stares at them all day. However I am sure I am winning points with our neighbors who probably love to listen to my children make loud noise outside all day.
For a moment I'd like to discuss the total and complete insanity that the Bachelor has become. Okay, is it just me, or is Jake becoming even more idiotic than before? The lines that he says just make him look rehearsed and unrealistic. It's like every girl is "amazing" and "incredible" and why won't he shut up?! I am beginning to think as I watch him interact with Vienna, that he might really just be that dorky kid who never went on dates, or learned how to socially interact with women, especially on dates. And just for a moment, can we discuss the stupid pirate ship? Was that awkwardly uncomfortable for anyone else? It's like they were back in first grade. Which is exactly where there maturity levels must be. And then he just pushes her off the plank, while then following her into the water with just about the wussy-est dive I've ever seen. Sad. I mean, why do I even watch this crap? Then, the fake phone call from Ali. Oh so fake. I am sure she was contractually obligated to make that phone call. Let's talk about the enormous amount of editing that went into that call. First Jake is wearing one thing, then he's not. Then you see Ali in a hotel bathrobe (of a hotel in LA might I add). We are really supposed to think she is back in San Fran? Please. Who lives in a hotel with two 8x10 photos of Jake on her nightstand? Really? Where did she get those? That was a bit much. We aren't that stupid. Not to mention all of the splicing, and cutting and editing that went into making that fake phone call. Apparently Ali is up for the next bachelorette. At first I was wondering how she was going to get Facebook to give her time off for a whole other season, when they wouldn't even give her time of for Jake's season. Then I found out bachelorette's get paid six figures to do the difficult job of dating 25 guys and finding a husband. So, I guess Facebook will no longer be graced with ali's presence soon enough. And see, well, I like Ali, except for the fact that she liked/likes Jake. Says something about her don't you think? I will eagerly be awaiting the announcement as her as the new bachelorette though. I am hoping it will be after the "After The Rose" cause you know that little piece of television is going to be cra-ray-zee. Yay!
Okay, on a somewhat lighter note, Thing 1 has been telling me twelve times a day, every day that for his sixth birthday (which is not until August people--can you imagine how many more times I have to hear about this?) he would like a pair of high tops. Um, what? Do they even make high tops anymore? And where on earth did he hear about them? Rather who on earth told him about high tops? If I knew, then I'd go strangle them. So today, Hubs asks him, why he wants high tops so bad, and he says this: "Well, I don't really like boots, and so if I get high tops, then I can just wear them in the snow and won't get my ankles wet." Classic. I mean really though, who even makes high tops anymore? I'm getting freaky flashbacks of my hightop L.A. gears I rocked all through elementary school. White, with pink and purple laces. saweet.
So, I decided to go completely off sugar. For many reasons really, some of which I will share, others I probably still will share. So, even though I've been sugar free since Monday, I have decided to officially give the evil goodness up for Lent. So yes, that means all the way until Easter. At which point I might go gaga on you and eat twelve entire package of those whopper egg things. Yum. So far I have seen no benefits other than I eat more regular food, and I am more agitated. Couple this with the fact that I have adoozy of a cold, and you can understand why I've seen hubs awake for a total of 1 hour since yesterday at 5:30 when he came home from work. It's not really like I eat a lot of sugar, in fact it isn't really even my comfort food of choice, but I do tend to have a handful of something sugary in the evenings, and that has been hard to go without. Also, I've decided to cut out anything where sugar, or a sugar-like-item (think high fructose corn syrup, or aspartame) is in the first five ingredients. You would be shocked how many "healthy" foods have lots of sugar in them. Rice Krispies? Seems boring enough. Sugar is number two on the ingredient list. Even Fiber One has sugar as number five. But really breakfast isn't that hard cause I usually have this really delicious organic 8 grain hot cereal that has zero sugar in it. Usually I put some organic all-natural maple syrup in it, but I've switched to mashed up banana. And it's surprisingly just as sweet. Go me. Now, don't get me wrong, this isn't going to be any sort of easy. Trust me. But I am excited to do it, and see if I feel any different when it's all said and done. So don't hate me if there are a few ode-to-sugar posts here in the near future. Also, thanks to Sabrena, for the idea to give it up for Lent. You should really go visit her blog. She is fun. Also you will be cursed if you offer me anything with sugar in it for the next month and a half. cursed i tell you.
I have thoroughly been enjoying the our warm (high 4os) weather as of late. Gets the kids out of the house (yelling at the cat) and me as well (when they are not yelling at the cat). I am looking forward to getting out on walks, and seeing the confused tulips and bulbs popping through the earth. Springtime can cure almost anything I'm sure. Hopefully it can help me with this silly sugar detox.
Did I even blog about the fact that I am for sure having a boy? Yep, and a really wiggly one at that. Took the ultra-sound techs like 2 hours to get all the pictures they needed. Everything looks mostly good. I do have a weird placenta thing though. I guess I have an extra lobe of placenta which they are going to monitor with another ultrasound at 26 weeks to make sure that's what it is, and to be sure that the baby is still growing, and to be sure that the lobe isn't covering my c-section scar. If it is, I have no idea what they will do. Maybe I'll get to have two c-section scars? Lucky me. I don't even really know the technical term for this, which is probably a good thing, cause otherwise I'd be googling it, and finding out all the terrible things that can happen. I'm convinced in pregnancy ignorance is sorta bliss.
Valentines day came and went. It was nice.
I forgot to mention our book choice for next month is Carolyn Jessop's Escape. Now, I know this book is a bit older (2007), but it is absolutely fantastic. I love true stories, and her experience about her escape from the FLDS church is absolutely eye-opening. A must read. So that's the book. If you'd like to read along please do. You will not be disappointed.
And last but certainly not least. LOST. I really hope you made it this far. If you did, it will be like your little treat. Sugar-less of course. Okay, so Lost. Where to even begin?

is it bugging anyone else that this is supposed to be the season of answers? Cause really? Am I the only one missing them? Next week's teaser announcer guy said "THE TIME FOR QUESTIONS IS OVER." Somehow I highly doubt that.
Even though this episode did little to further us, I was pleased that there was not even a smidgen of Kate in it, or the temple. I do have to focus on the positive sometimes people.
Okay, so Fake Locke/black smoke monster man apparently can not shape shift anymore. We get this info per Ilana. Which is weird cause her character has never really been developed so I'm not sure how much we can trust her. Also, is it just me or does the smoke monster seem to be about death, whereas Jakob is about life? (remember when he brought locke back to life after he fell out of the window)? But then what about the fact that Jakob has been recruiting candidates to the island, all the while removing their free will and changing up the future? Good, evil? Ahhh! Also, weird that Illana takes Jakob's ashes.
It was nice to see Richard back, although he did not have the elixir of life and save them all. No, in fact he seemed very scared of Fake Locke. And I loved the biblical reference of Fake Locke (evil) asking Richard to come with him, and he would give him information and knowledge. Very familiar LOST producers. Richard of course turns him down. He knows evil when he sees it (apparently through Locke's exterior). But why could he not see the little boy? And who was that little boy? And were his hands bleeding in the first shot? Like stigmata? Could it be young Jakob? And why was Fake Locke so unnerved when he saw him?
Then Flocke talks Sawyer/James into coming with him. Could it just be that perhaps Sawyer is going to pull the ultimate con-man on the smoke monster? Can you even con the smoke monster?
Then they go to the cave. With all the names of the chosen or "candidates". Hmmm. So Jakob has been trying to "save" the island, whereas the smoke monster is just trying to get off of it? And he tells Sawyer he was once a man? Hmmm. Love seeing the island from the view of the smoke monster! And then that little boy again tells him he can't kill Sawyer? Cause he is a candidate? Did anyone else notice not all of the Losties are candidates? Only the men it seems. Inneresting. And the numbers again. And Sheperds was 23. The famous Psalm 23 --the famous Lord is my shepard verse. With Flocke/smoke monster seeming so powerful it's interesting that he really doesn't have any power. He must get Ben Linus to kill Locke, etc. So really, he is kinda helpless. A whole lotta religious mumbo jumbo going on here.
On a side note. In the flash sideways it was fun to see Rose again (who seems to have made peace with her cancer), and Hurley (all confident and sure of himself - and also professing his good luck? ) And Ben Linus as a teacher? Crazy! Did anyone else notice though that Helen said that the wedding could just be her parents and Locke's dad? Does that mean in the flash sideways that his dad never swindled him? I wonder how he gets paralyzed then?
On an even sider note, did anyone watch the Olympics after Lost? Those men's skating outfits were hilarious. And they just kept getting crazier and crazier as the night went on. Oh the love of glitter. Also watched this lost live for the first time, and there were two pretty hilarious commercials. The sienna one and the old spice. Classic. I can see that commercials have definitely gotten better since I've gotten Tivo.
Interesting that all the goodie Losties are headed for the temple. The only safe place on the island. Ashes must mean a lot. At the temple they used ashes to diagnose Sayid. And remember the ashes around the cabin? There must be a large significance of Ilana grabbing jakob's ashes.
So yeah, those are my thoughts. I actually have a lot more, but this post is already turning into one of the longest ones ever, and I'm sure you have more important things to do than read my blog. So I will let you go. Anything you'd like to comment on including the craziness that is LOST would be very welcome.

BOOK CLUB - THE HELP

2010-02-12T15:14:00.003-07:00

Okay, so here is my little book report/discussion group post for The Help by Kathryn Stockett.

I had heard so many great things and recommendations about this book, that I felt like it would be a great pick for our book club. And the book was really good. I wouldn't say great, but I'd say really good. Not one of my favorite books I've ever read, but I'm glad that I read it. Provided me a new perspective of slavery, segregation and civil rights.

So, some of my thoughts. . . First off, I had no idea what a long book it was. Wow. And I will be honest, it was a little slow going at the first. In fact, if I hadn't been reading it for a book club, I'm not sure if I would have finished. It's that kinda slow. But, once I got into it a ways, I couldn't put it down. Especially the 2nd half of the book. It just completely speed by. The story really picks up, and this is where I ended up falling for the characters of the book.

The book is set in the early 1960's in the deep south. Mississippi to be exact. The author writes from the point of view of three different characters. First is Aibileen, who is and always has been, a African American nanny/maid for white women and their families. She raises the kids, does all the cooking and cleaning for them. She tells her story about why she does this, and her experiences waiting hand and foot (and often treated like a slave) for these rich white women of the south. Even though slavery was outlawed years ago, racism, and segregation still lie deep in the hearts of white people throughout the south. Then there is Minny, Aibileen's good friend, who is also a maid/housekeeper for a white women, but who is much more outspoken and rough around the edges. Being an African American women in the south has taken it's toll on Minny. And lastly, Miss Skeeter, who is a young, unmarried, white women who was raised and cared for by an African American woman much like Aibileen and Minny. The story is of these three women and how their lives intersect and combine in a way that almost doesn't seem possible.

At the end I was so impressed to learn the book's author Kathryn Stockett was a white woman. This is so surprising because of the way in which she is able to so easily speak/write and portray the thoughts of a black women of the early sixties. She was raised in Jackson, Mississippi and had a family maid of her own Demetrie, growing up, which is where much of her inspiration and knowledge about this unique situation stems from.

I would very much recommend this book to others who enjoy enlightening fictional reads. Although not completely true, the book still lends to a unique authenticity that is often found only in memoires and non-fiction. Out of five stars I give this book a hearty four.

THE JOURNEY TO A NURSERY

2010-02-11T16:41:00.004-07:00

So, just mulling a few ideas around here, for the baby nursery, and I'd love your input.

So, I have decided to make my own crib bedding for baby #3. And since this is mostly the jumping off point for the rest of the nursery, I thought I'd start here. Since we gave away our other crib sets (for thing 1 & 2), and the ones I keep seeing in the stores and online for boys are either dorky jungle animals and race cars (no offense if that's what you like, it's just not my style) or $400 and up for a modern looking set. And well, I just don't wanna fork out that kinda cash, especially when I'm not even going to use the bumper or blanket (sids hazard). So I decided I can make a crib skirt and fitted sheet lickedy split. Pretty easy really. And for a lot less cash.

But my other problem has been finding boy-friendly fabrics that aren't cheesy or have automobiles or bears, or rattles all over them. I can find lots of modern boy fabrics (think Amy Butler, Michael Miller etc.), but the problem is, they usually have flowers or birds on them. And I don't want flowers. Or birds. What I want is modern, clean, simple, and unique without being too geometrical. Is that too much to ask?

So, I have found one fabric that I really like at Piper's Quilts, but it's $24 bucks a yard, and well, that's just a lot. But it's still cheaper than the $400 options, since it takes only about 2.5 yards for a skirt, and I have found a $5 a yard fabric I like for the sheet, and that is only 2 yards per sheet. But even $25 is a lot since I will only use the crib skirt for about 9 months (till baby can stand) and then we will move the mattress down, and no longer need a skirt. So, is it worth $60 for use of only nine months? Oh decisions decisions. I also found another fabric that I LOVED at a design store, it was light turquoise with orange koi fish on it, but it was $96 a yard. Um, no thank you.

So, then I put my thinking cap on, and started to think outside the box a bit. I thought what if I bought a sturdy plain cream fabric (canvas maybe?) that is cheap ($5-10/yard) and stencil on it? This would actually solve a lot of problems because the color combinations I am loving now, aren't to be found in any modern prints. Plus, it's fresh, unique, cheap and easy. And no one else will have the same bedding -- even if they made theirs, and so his room will be, just his.

I have rustic brown furniture, a cream chair and flakati rug, and I'm thinking grey walls. With that neutral background it leaves me pretty wide open for small amounts of color to be added here and there, since my basics are pretty neutral. I am thinking that I really like a creamy orange with pops of turquoise, but it's been hard to find. I also really like red too. But not with orange and turquoise.

Then I came across this stencil book by Lotta Jansdotter at Barns & Noble and picked it up. It has the most modern, unique, gender-neutral stencils. Most of which are not even intended for a nursery, which is exactly what I like. And I wouldn't go overboard, but maybe a few stencils on the crib skirt in one color, and the same stencil in cream along one wall, and maybe the smae stencil on a pillow in the chair. Repeating, simple theme, but not really. Just to tie it all together. She has a really nice leaf stencil I love, or these patterned circles I thought would be good. Just some thoughts.

Anyhow, this is the book. {On a side note, I am so tempted to cut my hair like hers. This is what I originally wanted last time I cut my hair (think long pixie in front), but I wussed out and went for an easy shoulder-length do. I wanted to wait until I was no longer prego and had lost some of my weight, but I'm thinking this short do, would be great with a brand new baby. So, who knows, maybe Lotta will be more of an inspiration than I thought. }

My other options for the walls instead of doing them all grey paint with a few stencils, is to do wallpaper on one wall. (Now, for those of you like Hubs who are thinking grey is going to make the room look tiny and small, please know that I'm not thinking of going super dark, and the room has two windows, a large closet, and with a crib, rocker and changing table, there really won't be that much wall showing.) I am not really into patterned wallpaper so much, but I love these simple, textured wallpapers I found. They aren't wild, but give interest and add a touch of texture in the room. And, most importantly, it doesn't scream boy or baby.

These are some of the different textures. Think of these in grey, only behind the one wall with the crib, so as to not over do it, and the other walls painted in a matching grey. Also, I love this wallpaper, cause I could still easily hang a picture or painting on the wall over it, since it's still fairly plain. I really enjoy that layered, texture look.

I know this is a jumble of mess and ideas, but I thought I would throw my ideas out there, and see what y'all thought. My overall idea is a simple, modern-ish, yet comfy, light room that doesn't look anything like a nursery except for the fact that there is a crib in it. Any ideas, thoughts, or vetos are surely appreciated.

Oh, and yes, I am planning on taking before and afters of the room once it is all said and done. I always have a lot of ideas when it comes to decorating, and usually I have one idea, let it ruminate a bit, and then find myself being inspired by something else entirely and then I tweak my thought and design completely till it's exactly where I want. It's a good thing I've got a good 5 months before Number three arrives.

WORST EPISODE OF LOST EVER. AND THE RECAP TO GO WITH IT.

2010-02-11T07:53:00.004-07:00

SPOILER ALERT. LOST RECAP.

Okay, so first off, I am sorry that this post is a day late. The reason is simple. The episode sucked. Yeah. As in so it sucked so bad that on Tuesday night after book club, when I decided to sit down and watch it i actually fell asleep! Never in my entire life, or the last five seasons at least have I ever, ever fallen asleep watching Lost. It seems almost impossible, right? What with all the smoke monsters, and tropical polar bears and time jumping. But last nights episode was just terrible. I hate the temple. I hate the temple people. I miss Daniel Farraday and his crazy antics. Can we bring him back instead?

Okay, so I finally did get through the episode last night and here are some of my totally crazy thoughts.

Okay, so obviously we are getting a parallel story line of all the characters had the plane not crashed, and arrived safely in LA. I get it. Claire would still have her baby, Ethan would still be involved, as well as Kate. I don't like this parallel lives thing. I much preferred the flash backs and flash forwards. These just suck. I did notice however that Kate noticed Jack mid hijack. Strange.
I liked seeing Claire again. Her little Australian accent is so nice. But her acting is off. The whole going into labor thing was a bit much for me.
What is with these temple guys? They are way boring, and in no way exciting. I am confused though. Did Jack swallow the pill or not? At first I thought they got it up, and then Mr. Toga and Harry Potter glasses guy get all weird and sketchy. I really just hate this story line.
So, is it just me, or is Sayid not really acting like Sayid? I'm not sure if it's the way he's acting or if his accent is different, but I'm still under the impression that it's not Sayid, and it possibly could be Jakob.
Okay so for these temple people being all about "fate", they sure seem concerned about getting Sawyer back. Speaking of Sawyer, the whole throw the ring in the ocean was a bit lame, no? Wah, wah. What a crybaby.
And Kate, um yeah. She is an idiot. Juliet just died last episode. I mean, give the guy some time lady. And the way Jack looked at Kate when she left the temple? This love triangle is so tired, and I'm over it. I guess it's just that I feel like Kate should have heard me the last five seasons when I was yelling at her through my TV screen to "stay with Jack!" She must have not heard me.
I am so confused as to what year it is. Can anyone clue me in? I am so LOST.
According to this screen still in LA of Claire's ultrasound picture it is apparently 2004. Still doesn't clear up the island time though.
Best line of the night: By Miles - "We'll be in the food court if you need us." Classic.
Now lets talk about Crazy Rousso Claire. Um, what? Last time we saw her on the island she was all chill rocking away in the rocking chair with her Dad in the cabin, right? Now, she's got cookoo, with the sickness we were told about via harry potter glasses guy (really wish I knew his name) to Jack.

Now, these are the things I am hoping happens soon.

Next episode actually keeps me awake.
Lost writers pull their heads out of their a%$es.
Richard and his eyeliner come and give them all the elixir of life and are saved by his goodness.
Daniel Faraday comes back one way or the other. Even if it is in a parallel universe. He was good TV.
Hubs wants Echo back. Sadly, I'm not sure this is going to happen.
I want a Hurley episode. I love Hurley. And I love his episodes.
Kate to just get lost in a time warp. Oh man does she bug me.
Jin to find Sun.
Where are Rose and Bernard? Do they have Aaron? I'm so confused. But I want Aaron to be found. I can't remember where he is.

And those are my thoughts. Discuss.

OVER AND OVER AND OVER

2010-02-10T18:41:00.002-07:00

Can't stop watching this. Total and complete brilliance. Pink was graceful, and lovely this year at the grammys. If you haven't yet seen it, you must. I was so glad she decided to perform this song. It's my all time favorite pink song. Enjoy!

LOST RECAP -- total and utter confusion, and loving it.

2010-02-03T08:26:00.005-07:00

SPOILER ALERT: IF YOU ARE AIMEE OR ANYONE ELSE PLANNING ON TIVOING ALL EPISODES TO WATCH AT A LATER TIME, OR HAVE NOT YET SEEN THE FEBRUARY 2ND EP DO NOT READ ON.

Okay friends. Here are some of my thoughts about last nights episode. Sorry if you were there last night, and have heard some of them already. (Also sorry about the crazy dulce de leche fiasco and freezer burnt ice cream. I mean really. I am totally ashamed. But at least the apple crisp was delish.)

Would have been not-so-smart to have missed the very obvious good vs. evil thing they've got going on. The entire episode I felt as though I maybe was at a sermon. So much religious imagery.
I really wish I knew the guy's name in the black shirt who is now resurrected (see religious) Locke. Or fake Locke. Or Flocke for short. And who is also apparently the smoke monster. Hmmm. So they answered one question. What is the smoke monster all about? Apparently it's some guy. But we don't get any more other info. Classic Lost answer.
Does anyone else think it is ridiculous that no one asks any questions on this show? I mean, they all just stand around quietly and do what they are told. Ask questions people. I mean really. Remember when they were in that weird pendulum place with daniel farraday's mother, just watching it go back and forth to decide what plane to get on to take them back? Well, why didn't they ask Ellie a few questions? I guess it would have been too easy, or she woulda just gave them a LOST answer, which is really a question.
Does anyone else think that Sayid might be the resurrected Jacob? Just a thought. Which is why they didn't flip him over once he became conscious. They needed him to die, so he could be resurrected as someone else. Which is why that weird Asian guy who doesn't like English on his tongue cuts himself to be sure the water won't heal him. If that is true I will be sad cause Sayid the torturer is pretty cool too.
I'm glad Jacob is back one way or another, cause it was really pissing me off that we'd heard about this "Jacob guy" for like 5 seasons and then bam, in one episode we finally meet him, and then he dies. It just wasn't enough. So, I'm glad there is more to him that just that short 60 minutes.
So the plane really does NOT crash. Um, what? Or it does, and they are living two separate lives in a crazy time continuum. Huh? I need a Tylenol. stat. And does Jack remember? Is he the only one? Or does he not remember? Tricky Lost producers. Real tricky. Loved seeing Boone again. And so glad I remembered his name out of the blue and yelled it at the screen. Slightly embarrassing. And Desmond is on the plane? But I guess if the island doesn't exist than he doesn't have to go crazy and push a button in a hatch for twenty years. Good for him. At least, that version of him.
Were we supposed to believe that ALL of their lives would have just kept on sucking had they not crashed? That in fact crashing was a blessing? And Jack's dad not making it on the plane? So not surprised. Cause it would have been Locke. Or something. So confusing.
Is anyone else sensing some big father/son thing going on with Lost? Jack and his dad. Miles and his dad. Ben and his dad. Claire and her dad. Where are all the mothers? Only men could have messed stuff up this much.
It was nice to see Ben scared out of his wits all episode and not the creepy know-it-all I'm used to.
Yeah. That VW bus totally can move a steel beam. Classic.
Did anyone else think it was weak sauce that Juliet gives her whole I need to tell you something really important speech and then dies? Come on writers. That is just lame. Even for you all.
I think the guy who plays Locke and Fake Locke in real life should earn an emmy for his performance last night. Absolutely brilliant. Those scary crazy flocke eyes? Creepy much.
And lets not forget the most important/confusing thing of the whole night. At the beginning when Lost goes all Finding Nemo on us and the island is seen underwater. Um, What??! I am totally confused out of my brain and loving every single second.

I just don't understand people who hate this show. I mean, why watch it? Part of the fun is being totally confused out of your mind and getting to think about it for a week until the next episode. It's the most brilliant TV show I've seen in quite a while. Totally unique and different than anything else on TV. And most importantly it's not a medical drama, or a lawyer drama, or reality TV. If you haven't seen this show, you should get to your library stat and reserve all the previous seasons. Watch them, and then enjoy this final season along with the rest of the world. It's definitely started off with a bang, and I am sure it will only get better.

So, those are my thoughts. Discuss

UM, WHAT?!!

2010-02-02T18:57:00.005-07:00

So yeah, I'm still watching. I have no idea why even though I HATE Jake. I think he is the biggest dork ever. He is a total wuss, and makes me want to barf on the TV screen, but for some reason, I get sucked in. And what's even worse, is I watch even though I know who Jake is going to choose. I mean, what is up with that? But I did have a few comments about last nights episode anyway, cause really, it was just too ridiculous.

1. A turtleneck Jake? Really? 1994 called, and is embarassed that you are ruining it's finest fashion of the day. Terrible. Girls, you really want to date a guy who wears a turtleneck somewhere other than the ski slopes?

and last but certainly not least,

2. Vienna, what on earth was with your George Washington hairstyle last night? So. Not. Cute.

And on to bigger and most definetly better. LOST starts in approximately 54 minutes. I am beyond excited. Can't wait.

VALENTINES DAY FHE

2010-02-02T16:55:00.004-07:00

Family Home Evening. A day late and a dollar short. Sorry about that.

I totally spaced that yesterday was Monday. FHE didn't even cross my mind. How pathetic is that? Our first FHE we've missed this year. So much for that resolution! And I had a whole awesome lesson and activity planned and everything. Oh well. Monday night FHE turned into Tuesday afternoon FHE. I think it still counts.

So I got this idea off of Blond Designs Blog, where she has printed up for the holiday season these adorable I LOVE tags. And I decided that we would make mailboxes for each of us, and then everyday, till Valentines Day, we would write something we love about someone else (or everyone else) on the I LOVE tags, (ex: I love your smile. I love your laugh. I love the way you sing. etc.) and then put them in the appropriate mailbox. Then, on Valentines day morning during our heart pancake bonanza we will get all our "love mail" out of our mailboxes and read them together.

So far this has been a real hit with the kids. They loved decorating their mailboxes, and they love writing the love notes, and mostly they love delivering them. I got all my supplies at The Dollar Tree for under $5. Package of six Manila envelopes, package of glitter glue, package of heart stickers, package of foam valentines stickies, and 6 magnetic clips.

So the kids spent a good hour and a half decorating their mailboxes while I cut out about 4 sheets of the I LOVE tags that you can get here. Then, after much debate between the refrigerator and our back door (the back door won--who knew it was even magnetic?), we hung up our mailboxes, and started in on a few pieces of mail each.
Thing 2 decorating away.

Thing 1's finished product. And well, let's just say I'm pretty sure he won't be majoring in art in college.

Cutting up the tags.

My finished product. Aren't you impressed?

Thing 2 made one for Dad. Isn't it beautiful?

The I LOVE tags are hung next to the mailboxes for easy access.

The finished product. Our Valentines Mail Door.

If you have small kids, you might want to give this a go. You probably have most of this stuff in your house anyhow. I thought about small leftover envelopes we had, but went for the bigger ones cause I thought it would be funner to decorate them. If you have markers, glitter glue, and some assorted left over stickers then you are all set. And I am sure you could just tape up your mailboxes, and once you print, and cut out the tags, you are in for a fun project for only free ninety nine. That's a good price my friends for a ready made Valentines day kid-friendly project.

Happy Valentines Day Friends!

MICHAEL POLLAN part 3

2010-02-02T06:20:00.000-07:00

Okey Dokey folks. It's time for round 3. The last and final on our little Michael Pollan journey. Hope you enjoyed it.

How Should I eat?

44. Pay more, eat less. -- quality over quantity. Food experience over more calories.

45. . . . Eat Less. --Calorie restriction has repeatedly been shown to slow aging in animals. Now who doesn't want that?

46. Stop eating BEFORE you are full. --somewhere between 67-80% full, stop. Don't ask yourself if you are full, but, is my hunger gone?

47. Eat when you are hungry not when you are bored. --Oh Michael, if only it were this easy. " if you are not hungry enough to eat an apple, then you're not hungry." Love that.

48. Consult your gut. --are your eyes bigger than your stomach?

49. Eat Slowly. --savor your food. Put down your fork between bites. It's good manners and good advice.

50. "The banquet is in the first bite." --No other bite will taste as good as the first. law of diminishing marginal utility. More bites doesn't mean more pleasure, but it does mean more calories.

51. Spend as much time enjoying the meal, as it took to prepare it.

52. Buy smaller plates and glasses. --the bigger the portion the more you will eat.

53. Serve a proper portion and don't go back for seconds.

54. "Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper." --You've heard this before. Also, "After lunch sleep a while, after dinner, walk a mile." Good advice.

55. Eat meals. --unless your snacks are real food (i.e. fruit, veggies or nuts) stick to meals.

56. Limit your snacks to unprocessed plant foods.

57. Don't get your fuel from the same place your car does. --gas stations now sell more inside on over processed food than from gas.

58. Do all your eating at a table. --Common sense. You eat more in the car or in front of the TV.

59. Try not to eat alone. --when we eat alone we eat more. Usually.

60. Treat treats as treats. --another idea. Follow the S rule. No snacks, no seconds, no sweets--except on days that begin with the letter S.

61. Leave something on your plate. --"Better go to waste, than to waist."

62. Plant a vegetable garden if you have the space, a window box if you don't. --grow your food. It's fun and healthy and good for you.

63. Cook. --you have all the control.

64. Break the rules once in a while. --I like this rule.

So there you have it. I went to the grocery store today and you shoulda seen my cart. Not a processed food in there. Go me. I took a few minutes this morning, perused a few cook books and made a menu plan for the week, and made a coordinating shopping list. My mother would be so proud. We had a delicious dinner tonight of organic BBQ salmon, green beans with honey- cashew sauce (DELISH), and roasted red potatoes. I was going to do a salad too, but that was just too much food. I've got some fun new recipes to try this week. Including curried vegetables and tofu, and vegetarian chili. It should be interesting. I'll let you know how it goes.

FEBRUARY

2010-02-01T18:14:00.004-07:00

Dear February,

You are: finally here. the month of love. one day closer to spring. spelled funny. fewer snow storms. more sunshine.

welcome. welcome. welcome. It's so good to see you.

Most Sincerely,

Amy

FOOD RULES part 2

2010-02-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, so by now you should get Mr. Pollan's point. Eat whole, real, natural food. Forget about diets, low-fat, low-carb, whatever. Just eat food. But what kind of food you ask? Well let me tell you.

What kind of food should I eat?

22. Eat mostly plants, especially leaves. --antioxidants, fiber, omega 3s. All good.
23. Treat meat as a flavoring or special occasion food. --hmmm. I've feel as though I've heard this before. Eat meat sparingly. Yes, I have.
24. Eating what stands on one leg (mushrooms and plant foods) is better than eating what stands on two legs (fowl), which is better than eating what stands on four legs (cow, pigs and other mammals).
25. Eat your colors. --Vegetables that is.
26. Drink the spinach water. --in the words of MP "the water in which vegetables are cooked is rich in vitamins and other healthful plant chemicals. Save it for soups or add it to sauces."
27. Eat animals that themselves have eaten well. --"the diets of the animals we eat strongly influences the nutritional quality of the healthfulness of the food we get from them, whether it's meat, eggs or milk." Grass fed and antibiotic free meat, eggs and dairy is more expensive, but more more healthy, not to mention tastes much better. You either pay out now (at the grocery store, or later at the doctor.)
28. If you have the space, buy a freezer. -- "when you find a good source of pastured meat, buy in quantity and freeze.
29. Eat like an omnivore. --"the greater the diversity of species you eat, the more likely you are to cover all your nutritional bases."
30. Eat well grown food from healthy soil. --or he could have just said Eat Organic.
31. Eat wild foods when you can. --very complicated explanation in book. Just do it. It's healthier.
32. Don't overlook the oily little fishes. --less mercury lots of omegas.
33. Eat some foods that have been predigested by bacteria or fungi. --Fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and sourdough bread are good sources of B12 an essential nutrient you can't get from plants.
34. Sweeten and salt your foods yourself. --you will consume much less than if the company does it for you. Maybe my mom was on to something not letting us have sugared cereals. However we were allowed a small sugar spoon worth of sugar on our cheerios and grape nuts. Hmmmm. Very wise mother indeed.
35. Eat sweet foods as you find them in nature. --sugar in a fruit also has fiber. Not so much in the juice. Just eat the apple already.
36. Don't eat breakfast cereals that change the color of your milk. --again, highly processed and full of chemical additives. Guess I should go thank my mother today.
37. "The Whiter the bread the sooner you'll be dead." --Eat whole grains.
38. Favor the kinds of oils and grains that have been stone-ground. --olive, sesame, palm fruit and peanut are good oil choices.
39. Eat all of the junk you want as long as you cook it yourself. --How often are you really willing to make real french fries? Or homemade ice cream? Or Pie? Not everyday I bet.
40. Be the kind of person who takes supplements--then skip the supplements. --be wise about your health, but don't waste money on supplements you don't need. If you are eating mostly plants you will get enough.
41. Eat more like the French. Or the Japanese. Or the Italians. Or the Greeks. --they all eat real food. Not processed crap. And the live much longer and are much healthier.
42. Regard nontraditional food with skepticism.
43. Have a glass of wine with dinner. --Or don't. Your choice.

And there you have it. Are you feeling wiser? Or just lost? Basically what I got from that was Eat mostly plants. Organic if you can. If you are going to eat meat, make sure it is organic grass-fed meat, and eat it sparingly. Eat a variety of foods. And eat junk only if it is homemade. Easy enough, eh?

I know this kind of eating takes time. And frankly lots of it. Pretty much if you are going to eat this way, you have to be willing to think ahead. Plan your meals, get to the grocery store often for fresh produce, and then cook them. And that is the key I think. Preparing your own meals. This way you get away from fake food, and into real food. And I know none of us feel we have the time, but hey, I just found time to write this blog post, and you found time to read it, so well, I'm betting you do have some extra time now and again. So get out of the fast food line, and back into your kitchen. Your family and body will thank you.

Next up: Part 3 How Should I eat.

FOOD RULES part 1

2010-01-31T16:13:00.003-07:00

So, one of the really interesting and unique things about this pregnancy has been my desire to eat really healthy whole foods. Not any one thing per say, just healthy eating in general rather. I've never been much of a chef so to say, but since I've been pregnant, I've been cooking dinner almost every single night. Shocker! I have also started baking too. And I have to say I'm really enjoying it. I enjoy perusing cookbooks and thinking about good things to make for my family. I realize that I finally have the time to cook and bake, and for the first time in my life, I actually have the desire. I blame it on the hormones.

So the other day I was in Barnes and Noble perusing the aisles, when I saw this little gem on an end post. I picked it up and looked at it, and I knew it looked familiar but I wasn't sure where. Then I remembered Michael Pollan was a guest on Oprah the other day that I happened to catch. I really identified with his ideas, so I decided to purchase the little book. It's not a long or hard read, but it is filled with some of the most logical, wise advice I've ever read (and believe me, I've read a LOT of diet books) regarding food and eating. So, I decided to buy it. And then I decided that I should share this wisdom with y'all cause it's just so great.

In this book he basically talks about the reasons we as a nation are so unhealthy (i.e. diseases and obesity), and then gives the rules or guidelines to the ways in which we should be eating. His entire book can be summed up in 7 simple words.

Eat Food. Not too much. Mostly Plants.

And there it is. The basic simplicity of all his guidelines. In his book he has 64 food rules, divided into three sections to better and more thoroughly explain these seven words. He divides the 64 rules into three separate sections: What should I eat? What kind of food should I eat? And How should I eat? And since I thought it might be a bit much to list all 64 rules on here at once, I decided to give them to ya in three separate posts, divided up along the lines of his three questions. The rules are his. The little blurb of thought after are mine. For his full reasoning and description buy the book.

Get ready to change your life friends. You can thank me later.

Michael Pollan's Food Rules

What Should I Eat?

Eat Food. --Not over processed packaged stuff passing for food.
Don't Eat Anything Your Great-Grandmother Wouldn't Recognize as Food --example: Go Gurt. Is it yogurt or toothpaste? Over processed, packaged food isn't really food.
Avoid Food Products containing Ingredients That No Ordinary Human would keep in the pantry. --Ethoxylated diglycerides. You wouldn't cook with it, so don't eat stuff that contains it.
Avoid Food products that contain high-fructose corn syrup. --Usually a food that contains HFCS has been highly processed..
Avoid foods that have some form of sugar (or sweetener) listed among the top 3 ingredients.
Avoid food products that contain more than five ingredients. --I love Lara Bars. They usually only have 3 ingredients. Fruit, dried fruit and nuts. Delish.
Avoid food products containing ingredients that a third-grader cannot pronounce.
Avoid food products that make health claims. -- Low fat? Maybe, but I bet they added sugar to up the taste. Also, fruits and vegetables do not make health claims, yet we know they are healthy.
Avoid food products with the wordoid "lite" or the terms "low-fat" or "non-fat" in their names. --Same reason as above. Often times full fat items have fewer calories than their non-fat counterparts.
Avoid foods that are pretending to be something they are not. --margarine is the classic example. Artificial sweeteners too.
Avoid foods you see advertised on television. --Usually over processed yuck.
Shop the peripheries of the supermarket and stay out of the middle. --you've heard this before. Do it.
Eat only foods that will eventually rot. --preservatives are not your friend.
Eat foods made from ingredients that you can picture in their raw state or growing in nature. --For fun check out a twinkie ingredient list. Do not eat Twinkie.
Get out of the Supermarket whenever you can. --And into the Farmers Market.
Buy your snacks at the Farmers Market. ie--fruit, veggies and nuts.
Eat only foods that have been cooked by humans. --Corporations but large amounts of sugar, salt and fat in their food. Yuck.
Don't ingest foods made in places where everyone is required to wear a surgical cap.
If it came from a plant, eat it. If it was made in a plant, don't.
It's not food if it arrived through the window of your car. --one exception--Au Natural.
It's not food if it's called by the same name in every language. (Thing Big Mac, Cheetos, Pringles.)

And there you have it. The rules to good, wise and delicious eating. Now, I don't want you even for a minute to think I am going to follow this perfectly. I am no food saint. Believe me. But I'm gonna simply lean in to it. Try eating more healthfully. At least 90% of the time.

Stay tuned for Parts 2 & 3 from Michael Pollan's Food Rules. Or just go buy the book yo-self. Cause it's good reads people. Good reads I say.

DEAR UNIVERSE, THIS IS WHAT I AM CRAVING

2010-01-27T10:08:00.003-07:00

So in pregnancy women often crave many things. Pickles and ice cream amongst the most popular. I however, usually don't crave things, but rather have aversions. With Thing 1 it was funeral potatoes. Couldn't even get near them, even for a good while after I'd delivered. With Thing 2 it was cottage cheese. Ewww. And with Thing 3 it is meat. Any and all meat. Just grosses me out. I'm starting to come out of it a little bit, but mostly it still makes me want to gag. But this pregnancy I am absolutely craving something, which is very unusual. I want it so bad, but unfortunately I don't think my wishes are going to come true. This is what I'm craving:

A complete and total dreamless nights sleep.

I honestly can't remember the last time I went to sleep and didn't have some crazy, scary, whacked out dream. And it's exhausting. Every night I wake up 5 or 6 times in a panic because one of my children has just died, or been kidnapped, or forgotten altogether. It is absolutely frightening. Someone once told me that pregnant women have these types of dreams so that they can, even in their subconscious, be able to handle any situation involving their offspring. So that we will be prepared in a case of emergency or shock. A sort of innate evolution type-thing. And I guess I can see her point, but it doesn't make me feel any better about my terrible dreams. I just wish they would stop. Luckily I haven't had all the crazy new baby dreams yet. Like when you leave them at home, and just completely forget about them? I hate those dreams. I feel like I have enough guilt about all the many ways I'm screwing my kids up while I'm awake, that I really don't need it while I'm supposed to be sleeping. Needless to say, I'm absolutely exhausted, and would really, really, really love a totally dreamless night. One of those nights where you wake up and go, "wow, that went quick." And for the life of you, you can't remember a single dream. Yes, that would be nice.

YOUR DAILY GIGGLE

2010-01-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

I honestly laughed out loud when I saw this. Cla-ssic. Especially if you live in the valley.

JANUARY PICK --THE HELP

2010-01-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

So, I'm in a book club with a group of really fabulous women, whom I absolutely adore. We pick a book each month and get together and discuss it, amongst other things. So to kick off book club this year I went ahead and picked the book for this month. I'd heard such great things about The Help by Kathryn Stockett that I decided to go ahead and choose it.. And since I've started it, I have been pleased with my pick.

And since I love to read, and know many of you do as well, especially a few of you who live far away, I decided to go ahead and let you all know what book we will be reading each month, then after our group meets, I will post our group's thoughts about the book, as well as my own. And I thought it might be fun for y'all to join in the discussion if you would like. Kind of like an extended virtual on-line book club. So here is my invitation if you would like in on the virtual discussion.

The book for January is The Help by Kathryn Stockett.

Sorry for the short notice, but I will be posting my thoughts about it on Friday February 12th. That gives you a few weeks to read it if you so desire. On the 12th I will be sure and inform you of our next choice so any of you who are interested in joining in our virtual discussions can do so, with plenty of time in February to read the next book.

And if you have already read this book, feel free to comment on my post on Feb. 12th. I am interested to hear what others have thought about this book but haven't finished it yet, and don't want any spoilers, so please wait till the 12th.

Hope you join in!

SIX THINGS. . .

2010-01-26T15:40:00.004-07:00

So, I got a request from the ever hilarious Cottage Cheese Thighs, to name 6 things I am a master at. And it honestly made me think. Cause really, there are are lots of things I'm mediocre at, and hundreds of things I suck at, but master? Well, it took some serious thought to come up with six, but here it is. Six things I am a master at.

Brainstorming. Now, you are probably thinking what does that even mean? But yes. Honestly I am so great at coming up with ideas. Did you know inside this head of mine I've got thousands of fabulous ideas I am just sure will make me & hubs millions one day? Now, if only I had the follow-through of a master.
Traveling to Hawaii. Oahu and Maui to be specific. I know all the best spots to snorkel at, hike at, eat at, and lay out at. Really. Does this make you want to take me with you to Hawaii next time you go? It was worth a try.
Design. Now, this is kinda hard to explain, but I think I have a really good eye for things. For example I have a fairly good idea what looks good on people. I single handedly picked out my sister-in-laws wedding dress. She didn't even have it in her pile of dresses to try on, but I talked her into it, and I'm so glad she did cause she looked AMAZING in it. Another example of this, is that I can see all the possibilities of a run down home that just needs some love. I really have a good vision for "what could be". If I had lots of money I honestly think it would be so fun to design and flip fixer-upers.
Talking. I wish I could say listening, cause it seems more Zen and evolved, but really most of the time I am listening I am just thinking of the next thing to say. This is a terrible quality/habit that I am always trying to fix, but I just can't help it. I love to get together with my friends and chat, chat, chat. I love talking about books (shout out to the bookclub), reality TV, politics, religion, food. Anything really. I usually say way to much, as you probably know if you are any sort of regular reader, but I truly believe the whole point of life is to learn from and cultivate relationships. How do you do this if you aren't willing to share and be honest? So next time I say something on here that makes you want to cringe cause it's just simply too much info, just remember I'm cultivating our relationship. Yes, even in cyberland.
Loyalty. This might sound like a weird thing to be a master at, but it's true. I am loyal to my favorite clothing brands in that once I find something that works, why switch? Loyal to my favorite restaurants and frequent them regularly even going so far as always ordering the same thing. Why mess up perfection? And did I mention that Hubs was my first Love? Yep. High School Sweethearts.
Number six is a tie with two different things. I thought I'd throw some negative things on here, cause lets not forget people that that cup really is half empty, and that cookie half gone. So, laziness & spending money. I am a master at being lazy. I would like to say it's that I am a homebody and prefer to sit rather than stand, but in all honestly it's laziness. Although I do love a clean and orderly home which doesn't really go with laziness, but ask anyone who is close to me and they will say that I am lazy. So sue me if I'd rather go lay on the beach than take a hike. Really now. And I am totally okay with it. Adds to the charm I think. And if you need someone to go shopping with, just ask. Cause I can spend money like a champ. Just ask hubs. Or actually don't. It's kinda a sore spot. Love you babe!

So there you have it. Six things I am a master at. I am pretty sure I am supposed to tag 6 people, but since I know NONE of you will actually do it, I am letting you off the hook, so you don't feel all guilty and stuff. But just know that I would think it would be really fun to hear a master list from all 6 of you who read my blog. Plus, it's kinda cathartic, and therapeutic in a strange way.

AND NOW, ON A LIGHTER NOTE

2010-01-23T13:31:00.001-07:00

Ten days people. Ten Days!!!

COVETING

2010-01-21T16:45:00.002-07:00

Today I am coveting this reversible sling over at Fawn&Forest. Some people hate the sling, but I for one, LOVE it. Both of my previous monsters were also sling babies. I hope to carry on the tradition with baby number three, and I am thinking this is a perfectly stylish way to do so. And at 10% off, I think it's even that much more fabulous.

Also, I think this, or even better yet, this would make a lovely addition over the change table. However, pretty sure Hubs will tell me to go jump in a lake, as the price isn't as nearly as lovely as the item itself.

Pretty sure I could do some serious damage in fawn&forest if I won the lottery or something. The whole site is just oh so lovely. Check it out here if you, like the rest of salt lake it seems, have a baby growing in your belly, or know someone who does.

THE JOYS OF MOTHERHOOD

2010-01-12T18:42:00.003-07:00

Tonight we went out to a very lovely dinner with the fam. It was delish. As we were getting up to leave, Thing 2 decided that she just had to put on her ipod before she left. I suppose for some listening enjoyment as she walked to the car. Thing 1 had no intention of waiting for his three-year old sister to rig up her ipod. So, he went on ahead to the car. I decided to let hubs figure out the ipod sitch, while I went after Thing 1. I found him outside jammin' to the music they have playing outside the restaurant. So I decided to jam with him while we waited for the other two. Now, I know I'm not the best dancer that ever lived, but I can shake my tail feather pretty darn fine if I do say so myself.

Finally, after several minutes of dancing outside, Hubs and Thing 2 make it outside the restaurant. We then start heading to the car. And this is when Thing 1 walks directly smack into the car next to us. Straight into it. Thud. It was loud. This is when I run to him and ask him (while stifling a laugh) if he is okay, and make sure we don't need to head to the hospital or anything. And this, THIS is what he has the gal to say to me.

"Gosh, Mom! (in a loud yelling voice) You made me dizzy from all your horrible dancing!"

Oh great. He's only five and already I'm being blamed for everything that goes wrong in his life. Oh the joys of motherhood.

PURE RANDOMNESS

2010-01-06T19:18:00.002-07:00

Heard the heartbeat today. It's still going strong. Nausea has mostly passed. Thank heavens.
I am getting really super duper excited for Lost. I really hope this season lives up to all the hype, and most importantly, my expectations.
I am convinced Life cereal actually tastes better dry than in a bowl with milk.
I got some maternity jeans yesterday for two dollars and fifty cents. Pretty sure I'm the best bargain shopper ever.
I think maybe it's because I'm thirty now, but I had some seriously long thoughts about not watching this season's Real World. I figured that I am now mostly ten years older than most of those chumps and it's just weird. Then my brother told me that he loves to watch college basketball and they are ten years younger than him, and that made me feel slightly better. I'm considering adding it back to my tivo list.
I have ventured back to spin class. I realize that I really do love to ride, and miss my road bike terribly. It's been hard to justify getting out for a two-hour ride though when I have little kids, but I'm thinking as soon as I'm all healed up from my c-section I'm going to start riding this summer. Maybe start a girls only group on Saturdays? Any takers?
For some reason, see previous bullet point, I say the word "terrible" ALL. THE. TIME. now. It's like I've forgotten words like horrible. It's my new go-to word. I blame Charles Barkley.
Speaking of Charles Barkley, he is going to be on SNL this week. I am slightly excited.
I have no idea why, maybe because there are no good shows on TV anymore since Glee went on hiatus, but I tivoed The Bachelor. Which makes no sense cause I hate Jake, and think he is boring and lame, and boring. And he cries alot. But the girls are always so crazy and fun to watch. Still can't believe some girls cry after being sent home the first episode. I mean, you met the guy once! Unreal!
I really hate the cold and snow, and am super jealous of my in-laws who are currently in Maui. Booo to them.
I used to only hate putting clean laundry away, but now I also really hate doing laundry. Really hate. It's terrible. (See, there it is again.)
I was thrilled this week when I found out they finally make TALL maternity Gs. Hooray.
Was that too much info?
I really love tangy taffy. The long wide kind that they used to have at Starship theaters, and can now only find in limited quantities at some sevs. Oh, and not the kind with watermelon crap or sparkles in them. Gross.
Also, I forgot about this before, but seriously, how many times can they show Jake, the bachelor with his shirt off? It was getting to be ridiculous. That man sure loves his abs.
Been thinking about painting the nursery grey. Hubs didn't really say anything when I told him. I think this is because he thinks it's a terrible idea, and he is hoping grey is a phase and that it will pass. I'm afraid my friends, it's not passing. Grey is totally appropriate in a nursery.
I am thinking of cutting my hair off. I think this is because I'm feeling fat and pregnant and not cute. However, I am afraid I will cut it off, and then it will make my face look fat and then I will feel fat. And then I will be exactly where I started. This is very vain and ridiculous.
I just re-read this post up until here, and I am very depressingly boring. Sorry.
I have 16 more minutes till my R.S. presidency meeting in which I will for the second time tie 100 bows on to 100 bookmarks. So help me if they change the lesson schedule again. . .
We still haven't taken down our Christmas decorations. This is sad, and shows just exactly how tired I am. I thought that was supposed to pass after week 12. Heck maybe I'll just leave em up until next year.
I love my new minivan so much. It is my favorite car ever. The automatic doors, the rear DVD, free sirius radio. It's like how I would imagine a chariot in heaven might be.

I think that is enough randomness for one day. Hope you are all having a fabulous start to twenty-ten!

TWO GOALS FOR TWO THOUSAND AND TEN

2010-01-03T19:28:00.002-07:00

Did you know that I'm religious? Have I mentioned that? Well I am.

Two of my "resolutions" this year are to have more regular personal scripture study, and finally master Family Home Evening. These two have been on my list since the beginning of time, so as you can tell I'm not so great at keeping my resolutions. This is usually cause I just go in with a great idea and lots of momentum, and then by June I'm distracted and onto something else. I figure this is because I lack direction and a plan. But this year, Sugardoodle.net has got me covered.

First off, to be sure my scripture reading stays on par I've got a brand spanking new scripture reading chart. Some awesome Mormon (with a lot of time on their hands) went ahead and copy and pasted the entire BOM into excel and then divided it up into 365 days and what you've got left is THIS. It's got a certain number of equal scriptures to read every day so that you can finish the BOM in a year. Now, this wasn't my original goal, but I figure it will be a nice perk. I fancy a good list. Something that I can keep in my scripts, and mark off everyday. Makes it seem like I'm productive. Now, if I can just manage to crack them open everyday. ;)

Now on to my second resolution. Family Home Evening. I have to say, that every year Hubs and I get better at this one, but somehow we can't quite master it. But I think we've got a pretty good shot this year, especially now that the children's attention spans are longer than two point five seconds. I think we managed a good fifty-five percentage last year. I'm hoping though, to up that to at least eighty-five with this bad boy. It's an entire year of family home evening lessons for 2010 that co-ordinate with the primary theme each week and sharing time. I have asked hubs to print out the entire thing for us, and then we will be golden. Or I guess you could just print out what lesson you need each week too. It's got an assigned opening hymn, scripture, lesson and activity. This is so great, cause half of the time last year we just pulled a super-ghetto fhe, and read a story out of the friend. Hey don't judge us. You know you've done it too.

So there you have it. My first fairly churchy post, and resolution shout-out all in out.

IT'S A. . .

2010-01-01T09:27:00.003-07:00

"And now," cried Max, "Let the wild rumpus start!"

Let the wild rumpus start indeed. We found out a few days ago that baby in utero number three is a BOY!!

I was pretty sure it was, since this pregnancy has been an exact replica of Thing 1's. So, I was pretty calm when the Russian man at Fetal Studio said, "I yam certain. Two hundred pear-cent Boy." No shock there. Just a little bit sad that I won't get to use all those adorable Matilda Jane clothes again. Oh well. Here is to hoping one of my brothers adds a girl to the mix one day soon.

BODY OF WAR

2009-12-28T20:46:00.005-07:00

If you are looking for a warm and fuzzy after Christmas post you are most definitely in the wrong place. Today's post will be raw, real and lies very close to my heart. This subject, however controversial and uncomfortable, must be talked about and discussed.

Tonight I was fortunate to be able to watch an amazing documentary (from my local library) that I've been wanting to watch for some time. It is called Body Of War. It is an amazing film by Ellen Spiro and Phil Donahue that chronicles the life of Thomas Young, a disabled (paralyzed) Iraqi vet.

Here is a little info on the film:

Body of War is an intimate and transformational feature documentary about the true face of war today. Meet Tomas Young, 25 years old, paralyzed from a bullet to his spine - wounded after serving in Iraq for less than a week.

Body of War is Tomas' coming home story as he evolves into a new person, coming to terms with his disability and finding his own unique and passionate voice against the war. The film is produced and directed by Phil Donahue and Ellen Spiro, and features two original songs by Eddie Vedder. Body of War is a naked and honest portrayal of what it's like inside the body, heart and soul of this extraordinary and heroic young man.

Body of War unfolds on two parallel tracks. On the one hand, we see Tomas evolving into a powerful voice against the war as he struggles to deal with the complexities of a paralyzed body. And on the other, we see the historic debate unfolding in the Congress about going to war in Iraq.

The film opens as Tomas and his fiance Brie prepare for their wedding. However, because of his disability, we see how the simple everyday activities for Tomas are involved and challenging. War is personal and the film takes us into the skin and bones of what it means to have no control over basic bodily functions. In many remarkable scenes, we directly experience how vulnerable and open Tomas is as he interacts with his wife, family, and friends

This is an incredible, raw, heart wrenching look into the life of a disabled Iraqi vet. Regardless of your political views, this is a documentary that every American, I feel, must watch. It's uncomfortable at times, terribly sad at others, and portrays a very honest look into the life of Thomas Young.

I feel sometimes like this war, is just an afterthought anymore. Something that isn't really reported on, discussed or talked about. Pictures of the dead and wounded never shown god forbid. Casualties rarely reported. War, almost hidden. Talked over, reported rarely and almost never thought about. I'm not sure if that's because it's an uncomfortable subject, or because it's depressing, but the casualties and cost of this terrible war must be discussed and brought to light.

As of today, the casualties of Operation Iraqi Freedom according to icasualties.org are as follows.

U.S. Fatalities: 4,371 UK fatalities: 179 Other: 139 TOTAL FATALITIES: 4,689

Iraqi ISF Fatalities: 9,347 Iraqi Civilian Fatalities: 46,783

US Wounded: 31,557

Operation Enduring Freedom/Afghanistan Fatalities: 1,554

These numbers are absolutely astounding. Horrible even. It makes me sick to think about this terrible war still going on. When will it ever end? I was very hopeful that things would start to change with our new president concerning the war, unfortunately that hasn't been the case. If we can't stop the war, the very least we can do is educate ourselves on the terrible misfortunes it has caused, and learn from this huge mistake so that we can be assured it never happens again.

This is my hope this holiday season.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2009-12-24T15:20:00.003-07:00

PHOTO CREDIT: JOANNA FROM LOVE. OBSESS. INSPIRE.

just wanted to say a quick Merry Christmas to all my blogger friends. hope you all have a most lovely holiday filled with people and things you love most.

here is just a few of the things i will be enjoying this merry holiday.

delivering gifts. driving to see Christmas lights. opening new Christmas eve jammies with the kids. the annual in-laws family Christmas eve get-together. delish delights. apple cider. book exchange with loved ones. cheesecake. tying bows on gifts. stuffing stockings. watching the children squeal with delight. cleaning up wrapping paper disasters. egg nog. giving, giving, giving. a little bit of getting. mom's eggs souffle. hot cocoa Christmas morn. cinnamon rolls. seeing all the generations gather. cherry chocolates. reindeer cookies. a crisp twenty. delivering cheer. puzzle-putting-togethering. annual Christmas night sleepover with the cousins. playing games with the family. watching a Christmas story. a candy cane or two. celebrating the birth of our Savior. finding joy in the little things.

I wanted to share with you my very favorite Christmas song. And it's lyrics say everything I wish for you this holiday. I really do hope you have yourself a merry little Christmas.

DEAR ANONYMOUS:

2009-12-16T09:54:00.002-07:00

Dear Anonymous,

If you are any sort of regular reader of my blog, you will know that:

a) I tend to be slightly pessimistic. And by slightly, I mean a lot. If you are looking for a happy blog, you are most definitely in the wrong place. So, if you don't like it, move along.

and

b) I find sarcasm quite delightful. Sorry if this rubs you the wrong way.

Most sincerely,

Amy

Oh and if that wasn't clear enough, I have decided to compile the rest of my hatred about the first trimester into one really pessimistic, really negative post kind of as a way to say hallelujah that I am officially as of this week moving along into my second trimester. Here goes nothing.

01. I am fairly certain there is not a baby in my upper arm chub. Even though it looks like it. I am officially in that I don't look pregnant, yet I do look fat phase. This sucks.

02. I am getting zero sleep. I wake up just about every 2 hours. Either to pee, or from all the bizarre pregnancy dreams. Then it takes me at least a half hour to get back to sleep. This also sucks. Especially for my husband.

03. I am absolutely no fun to be around. At all. I am moody, don't feel one bit like myself, and I cry at the drop of a hat. I cried twice last night at So You Think You Can Dance. It's pathetic.

04. I have zero energy. It's like my butt has an automatic magnetic pull towards both the couch and my bed. But I sleep like crap. Very frustrating. This sucks.

05. I have the complexion of a teenager. Enough said. This really sucks.

06. I am hungry ALL the time. And not that emotional hungry that Bob Green talks about, but the "seriously if you don't eat something soon, I'm gonna puke" kinda hungry. And just about every hour on the hour. This is no fun. I feel fat, and am fat. But I can't stop eating. This sucks bad.

07. Realizing that I have 6 more months of this to go. Ugg.

And that's about all the negativity I can muster up at this point.

Now, if you actually took the time to read all of that, I must also say, that deep down somewhere beneath my very sarcastic layer of fat, I (of course) am truly happy to be pregnant. Thrilled, even. I mean we didn't try to get pregnant for almost a good portion of an entire year, for nothing. I wanted this pregnancy. And am thrilled that everything seems to be moving along nicely. I realize that this is a blessing, as many women (some very close to me) have had a very hard time getting and staying pregnant. I get that. Maybe not completely, but in some sort of small way, I get it. And honestly, it makes me really, really, sad. Sad, that I don't understand why all women can't experience the joy of having children. Honestly. Sad, that all women don't get to experience the pure elation of hearing that heartbeat for the first time. Or sad that they won't get to feel the pure joy of feeling your baby move inside of you. Sad, that they won't get to feel what it feels like to be thisclose to the veil as your baby is birthed into this world.

But that being said, it doesn't mean, just because I'm pregnant, I'm going to tiptoe around the fact that I am, or that I think it sucks. Listen. I get it. Life could be a lot worse. I could not be able to have children at all, I could have some sort of cancer. One of my children could. I could live on the streets, heck I could be dead. (Now that would really suck.) But I'm not. I'm just a mom to two children, trying daily to get through this first truly terrible trimester in any way I know how. And if it's by humor and sarcasm and complaining, than so be it. I am sincerely sorry if I come off as blase, or ungrateful in any way. I guess what it comes down to, is I'm not really all that great at expressing all the good (and there is a lot)in my life. It seems much easier to talk about the mundane, or to complain about the bad stuff, or rag on some stupid celebrity.

So anonymous, I really am happy to be pregnant, and bottom line, I realize that that doesn't suck.

MARK'S TRIBUTE

2009-12-16T07:29:00.002-07:00

Just one of the thousands of reasons I think Glee is, er was, the best show on T.V.

Humble actors who make tributes to their crew. Hopefully more of these little vids come out from Mark to hold us over till April. Enjoy!

THINGS THAT SUCK ABOUT THE FIRST TRIMESTER PART 4

2009-12-14T16:24:00.004-07:00

Not getting to eat any turkey on Thanksgiving.

I know right? It’s almost sac-religious. Well, thanks to bundle-of-joy number three the mere thought of meat during this pregnancy, has me rushing to the restroom to vomit. So, rather than chance it, I thought I’d just steer clear. Only, that's pretty much impossible to do on Thanksgiving, cause Turkey smells are everywhere. I mean, pretty much, besides the whole being grateful thing, the whole point of Thanksgiving is to eat and devour as much turkey as humanly possible. Right?

So, Not having any turkey on Thanksgiving? Now that really, sucks.

SAVING MOOLAH THIS CHRISTMAS : Updated with one more!

2009-12-14T15:04:00.002-07:00

So, since we are in a bit of a recession, I thought I'd go ahead and give you all a nice little one-up this holiday. Save yourself a few bucks and instead of buying gift tags, print out your own. There are some adorable gift tags out there on the world wide web just waiting to be printed out, cut up and added to your gifts. So, do yourself a favor, and check them out.

01. Orange You Lucky --just love the whimsical look of these.

02. Domestifluff via papercrave --simple and sweet.

03. papercrave's 2008 design -- comes in three delicious color palates red & teal, fuchsia & lime, and light blue & dark blue.

04. papercrave's 2006 snowman design --who doesn't love teal & chartreuse?

05. Fresh Picked Whimsy -- too cute

06. UpUpCreative.com --no silly pictures here.

07. Living Locurto --love the ho cubed!

08. Vol25 -- if you love here stuff, you will love these.

09. Creature comforts -- vintage holiday love. Comes in red or blue.

10. Lollychops --simple yet again.

And because I love you, a few extra holiday freebies.

11. Goodie bag toppers. Fill a sandwich baggie with goodies, and fold and staple tag to bags!

12. mailing lables. --so going to be using these!

13. homebaked cookie tags.

14. Christmas gift ideas/tags.

15. Christmas wish list for kids.

16. mitten postcard

17. gingerbread postcard

18. christmas stockings

19. presents postcard

Oh and one more: Holiday Party Invitations from loveobsessinspire. --Love these!

Now, as with any good online freebie printable, it is best to use heavy card stock and set your printer to it's best printing capabilities. Enjoy!

A LITTLE BIT OF T-SHIRT LOVE

2009-12-13T06:56:00.004-07:00

I know this post is a little late, but Hubs actually got this beauty for me about two weeks ago. Isn't my husband the best? I've been wearing it, and loving it pretty much every day ever since. And I either get huge eye rolls, or huge high fives. It's awesome.

So, yeah, thanks Hubs for the Max Hall hateraid. I love it!

P.S. I realize this just might be the worst picture of me ever. But see, this is how much I love this shirt. I'm willing to put pretty much the ugliest picture of me ever taken in the history of all of my ugly self portrait shots out for the entire world wide web to see, cause they will also see my pride. GO UTES!!!

THINGS THAT SUCK ABOUT THE FIRST TRIMESTER PART 3

2009-12-13T06:49:00.002-07:00

Feeling like I’m going to blow chunks all day long.

I swear, it’s like I’m on that incessant tea cup ride at Disney Land, except it’s the never-ending tea cups. Never. Ending.

And all the while the world is spinning, and the nausea feels as though it has taken over my body and I might barf everywhere, I have two children yelling at me, that “I want a cookie!” “I want a toy!” “I want a drink!” “I want to play Candy land!” “I want, I want, I want!”

So that’s when I go slightly crazy and I yell at them, “Oh really? Cause I just want to get off this stupid tea cup ride!”

They just stare at me as though an alien has taken over my body. Which, crazily enough, is exactly what has happened.

Oh the joys of the first trimester.

THINGS THAT SUCK ABOUT THE FIRST TRIMESTER PART 2

2009-12-12T07:42:00.001-07:00

BEING DRAWN TO ANY AND ALL PREGNANCY RELATED TV SHOWS.

And believe you me, this definitely sucks. Come on, you've seen em, as you've been browsing your TV viewing options. They can mostly be found on the Discovery Health Channel, TLC, that sort of channel. They are shows that in my normal life I would pass on by without even thinking about possibly watching. But it's like, now that I'm pregnant, I am just sucked into them. All the crazy baby shows. Birth Day, Bringing Baby Home, and Multiple Births. This sort of thing. I mean, really, how bad to these shows suck? Really bad. But without a doubt, every time I get pregnant, I find myself watching these silly shows. And usually in my first trimester. It's honestly pathetic. But it's like I can't help it. I'm like a moth to a flame. A housefly to a porch light. I. Just. Can't. Resist.

But while we are on the topic, can we just talk about the single most ridiculous baby show on T.V., for just a moment? It's called "I didn't Know I Was Pregnant". And it's absolutely insane. It's a 30 minute show recapping different women and their experiences having babies, when they didn't know they were pregnant. Now, wait just a milly moment people. This is absolutely NOT possible. Right? This show makes me laugh, and just think how many delusional people are out there. I mean really. You come home from work, have really bad cramping thinking it's gas, and that you just need to pass a large poop. Go into the bathroom, and plop, out pops a baby. Um, No!! This is just not possible. You mean, to tell me, that you didn't have one single solitary side effect of pregnancy? Yeah, right. I've been pregnant three times, and I'd have to have been retarded not to know. And so far, out of the twenty or so (sad, i know) episodes I've seen, none of them have been mentally disabled. Although, after each episode I really do question their ability to be alive and live on this planet and mother a child. I mean, not even a single symptom? No weight gain? No super-spidey smell? No nausea? And you didn't feel the baby kick even once? Yeah, right. As if. With both of my last I felt like an alien had taken over my body with all of the goings-on in my uterus. And the clincher? Every time at the end of the episode when they are interviewing the "mothers", they ask them how they didn't know, and without a doubt every single lady says, they still had their period every single month. Again, Yeah, right. I mean they do realize it's actually humanly impossible to have a period while pregnant? IMPOSSIBLE. And yes, I know people sometimes do spot, but every month, on the month for 9 months? Yeah, right. Give. Me. A. Break. And the most insane thing of all, is that they don't have like one or two episodes of this show, they have zillions. Yes, zillions. In fact on Thanksgiving, they ran an entire marathon day-long worth of episodes. Meaning, there are lots and lots of really dumb women out there.

Sorry about this post sounding like a guest spot on SNL's "REALLY, with Seth and Amy" but I mean, come on. Really?

PUT ON YOUR YAMAKA IT'S TIME FOR CHANUKAH

2009-12-11T14:48:00.002-07:00

In honor of tonight being the kickoff of Chanukah, I thought I'd throw up an oldie but a goodie.

Enjoy!! And Happy Chanukah!

THINGS THAT SUCK ABOUT THE FIRST TRIMESTER PART 1

2009-12-11T09:05:00.004-07:00

So, whilst I was in the throws of the first trimester and hating every second I decided to write an ongoing series I like to call, "Things That Suck About The First Trimester." Yeah, don't worry people, just because I'm pregnant doesn't mean I'm all happy and nice and full of positivity. Nope, my pessimism is in full force. So, read if you like, pass if you don't. They are mostly, short and too-the point and full of negativity. Just call me the grinch. Fair warning friends. Enoy!

Things That Suck About The first Trimester Part 1:

Super-Spidey Senses.

And in particular my sense of smell. Holy guacamole. It’s like my sense of smell is on steroids. And it is no fun.

There I am the other day, trying to be healthy and not gain 70 pounds like with the last two chilins, at spin class, and it’s all I can do to not walk out of there, because of the overwhelming stench of B.O. and sweat. It was horrible. I honestly kept gagging and dry heaving. And trust me, it wasn’t much better once I got out of that horrid spin room. The entire gym smelt foul. And I know this is a pregnancy thing, cause I’ve never been to the gym and thought it smelled like permanent armpits. And trust me, I go, almost every day. I'm seriously considering which is worse at this point; Gaining seventy extra pounds or smelling B.O. for an hour every day?

Then I get home and the house smells terrible. And so I go on a search with my super-nose to find the culprit, only thing is that the ENTIRE place smells gross. So, first I tie a scarf around my face and nose, cause really, I didn't have a sars mask on hand, and I empty every garbage can, run the disposal for fifteen minutes, and literally threw away everything in the fridge that was older than a week old. When Hubs got home and opened the fridge I'm pretty sure he thought we'd been robbed. It looks pretty darn pathetic in there with a 1/2 gallon of milk and a carton of eggs and pretty much nothing else.

On the positive side, the fridge is clean. On the negative, we're having eggs and milk and mustard for dinner.

Oh, the joys of pregnancy.

THE BIGGEST LOSER: DANNY

2009-12-09T08:09:00.002-07:00

So, I realize I could have just stuck this post in with the other one, but I felt like Danny's transformation, and win last night was so amazing that he deserved his own post. This picture totally doesn't do his before and after justice, but the man looks like a completely different person. I told Hubs when he came out for his reveal that he looked a bit like Mel Gibson. I am so happy that he won. He was so fun to watch all season.

On a side note. How fabulous did Rebecca look? That hair was genius. So happy for her. And Rudy, looked great too! But Tracy? She was almost scary looking with her protein face. I am glad she is healthy, but I'm afraid the minute she takes one bite of a carb she is going to revert back to fat Tracy. Just like Bob says, the people who loose the weight for the competition and for game play always gain it back. I really hope that doesn't happen to her.

But Great Job Danny! Congrats! You DESERVE it!

I'M JUST SAYIN' . . .

2009-12-09T07:44:00.003-07:00

Is it just me, or is the stalkerish over-the-top-obvious crush that Adam Shankman has on this seasons' Jakob starting to make anyone else uncomfortable? It's like, I just want to smack Adam upside the head and tell him he sounds like a silly schoolgirl with all his barfy comments. There is so much sexual tension between these two that it's almost distracting. And Adam's comments are so too-much that it almost makes me a little embarrassed for him. And if I were Jakob, I'd be just a little weirded out.

Hey, I'm just sayin'.

And on a much, much, much lighter note. Glee is on tonight. Oh, how this has quickly turned into my favorite show on T.V. And that's saying something. However, I did hear, they were going on hiatus until next year--like until June. I so hope this is just a rumor. I would really miss the genius that is Glee.

THE DECISION

2009-12-07T16:34:00.002-07:00

Well, as you probably guessed. Yes, I am pregnant. And since this blog o'mine is sorta like also my journal, cause I'm lazy, here is where I'm going to put down into words my thoughts about our decision to get pregnant. Feel free to read or not read. It will probably be very wordy and boring. Just so you know.

So I know most of you are probably thinking that I've lost my mind. Which, I just might have. I know I said I wouldn't be having any more kids. Ever. And in all honesty, I really, really wanted this to be the case. . . for a long time. And really, it's not because I'm some kid-hater or something, it's just that well, I honestly, HATE, despise, loathe really, being pregnant. For me, it's just no fun whatsoever. So, when Hubs and I started throwing around the idea of having more children we started off really slow. First it was, "Oh our kids are so easy now. Everyone can buckle themselves in by themselves. Everyone can poop and pee by themselves. Everyone can get themselves dressed and entertain themselves." And perhaps if I'd been wise, I would have said, "Yes, and why go ahead and mess it all up?" But instead I said, "Yeah, they are getting easy, and it would be nice to maybe start possibly discussing having another."

So we did. We discussed. And at first, I was really only interested in adoption. I mean, let's be honest here people. I hate pregnancy so much, that at first, the only way I was willing to have another child in the family was if someone else carried, and birthed it. Seriously. That was the place I was in. So we talked about it. And decided that it was a good thing. Figured we were good parents, and could provide a nice home for a baby that someone else wasn't quite ready for yet. We got all the paper work for it, and then when it came time to submit and get serious, well, it just didn't feel right for some reason. I started thinking about all those people who can't get pregnant, and who really, really want to adopt a baby. And would I, selfishly, be taking one of theirs? I mean, I was perfectly capable of carrying my own child, I just really didn't want to. Now, I'm not saying this isn't a completely valid reason for adoption, just for us, it didn't really feel right. Ya know?

So, then we talked about foster care for a short time, and then, after all this discussing somewhere amongst it all miracle happened, and I decided that it would in fact be nice to perhaps be pregnant again and have another child. And really, the only thing I can think is that it had been so long since I'd been pregnant (3.5 years) that my brain had forgotten all the terrible things about pregnancy and newborns. You see, it's just that I get incredibly sick when I'm pregnant. I don't mean to complain, but maybe actually I do. It's just absolutely the pitts. Feels like I am on the verge of barfing ALL. DAY. LONG. But for 8-EIGHT!!! weeks! It's insane. And the only thing that even remotely sounds good to eat are carbs. And the bad kind. Not vegetables and fruit. But bread, and English muffins, and party pizzas ;) And while I'm eating it's like the nausea miraculously subsides. And the minute I stop eating-- it comes back with a vengeance. And so, you can understand why I tend to gain a bit too much weight. And by a bit I mean, like seventy pounds. With each. And although I'm no brainiack, I'm pretty sure this is partly why pregnancy sucks so bad for me. I mean, carrying around 70 plus pounds is pretty darn miserable.

So, where was I? Oh yes. We decided to start trying. So, I get my IUD pulled (which is another post in and of itself. Let's just say after two doctors, one ultra-sound and one x-ray it was finally out). But this was right around the time I was going to see all the doctors about my ear. They had put me on some diuretics to see if that might help, but since you aren't supposed to take those while you are pregnant--we decided to postpone really trying for a few months so I could see if the diuretics would help at all. After two months, and no difference we decided to go ahead and start trying to get pregnant. And since with Thing 1 we got lucky on our first try, and Thing 2 was pretty much a surprise (I was still nursing Thing 1), I figured we wouldn't have any problems. Well, that wasn't exactly the case. I knew the IUD I'd had in for 3.5 years had messed up my hormones, but I didn't know exactly how much.

We tried for about six months with no luck. It was so interesting going through that time period. Going from not really wanting something (pregnancy) to by the end, just wanting it so badly. Why wasn't it working? Was I broken or something? And I immediately for the first time understood, if even only slightly, what it was like to want to have a baby, but for some reason your body wouldn't make it happen. Living my life in two week incriments was very insightful. Two weeks to ovulation. Two weeks till test time. So frustrating, yet so humbling at the same time. So, after six months of trying I decided to go and get my hormones tested. And finally I had an answer. All of my hormones were completely out of whack. That IUD had really screwed me up. My estrogen was too low. My progesterone was too low, and I had absolutely NO traces of testosterone at all. And well, this combination doesn't make for very fertile eggs. Pretty much she was surprised I was ovulating at all. So she put me on some all-natural plant-based hormones and wadaya know? That first month on them I got pregnant. Fabulous.

Then the nausea kicked in and I've been in hell ever since.

No. Just joking. But that's how it happened. How I went from being totally ambivalent about having a baby, to wanting a baby so badly, to now, not knowing if it was such a grand idea. I'm sure this feeling will subside along with my nausea. Hopefully.

I just want to thank all of you who commented on my last post or on face book with congratulations. It feels really great having so many wonderful friends and family out there who support me.

Thanks bloggers!

A LITTLE WORD PUZZLE

2009-12-06T16:19:00.000-07:00

the end.

A LITTLE HOLIDAY CHEER

2009-12-03T04:38:00.000-07:00

So, just to show you all I wasn't kidding about my love for all things Christmas, I decided to put up some iphone pics of my Christmas decorations. Just to put the blog in the Christmas Spirit, I suppose. I actually put the decorations up before Thanksgiving, but decided to wait until at least December till I posted. You. Are. Welcome.
You gotta believe baby.

Since we don't have a fireplace. . . hooks will do.

The red ornament balls I got for a steal out at Ikea. I have two more bowls full in the other room.

The top third of our Christmas tree. Seriously. I had only one request of Hubs' few days off around Thanksgiving. I wanted my tree up in my front room this year instead of the great room. Only problem is, my front room ceiling is significantly lower than in the back, and well, the whole tree didn't quite fit. So, I came home one day and Hubs had rigged up most of the tree in the front room. Oh yes, he did. And after I laughed for about five minutes, I thought it was a perfect solution. A little lame, yes, but I think it does the job just fine. We are absolutely a little retarded. And cheap too.

The bottom two-thirds of our tree. Luckily Hubs rigged it a bit so it doesn't look quite so ridiculous. I think I might factor a new pre-lit (genius) tree that fits into our front room and our budget next year.

The hit every year. Nativity you can play with. Except we are missing a wise man, and a couple animals. Oh well. You get the point.

My Christmas village I got one year from my mother-in-law. Looks amazing all lit up at night.

My new wooden, i.e. kid friendly, nativity I got last year at an after-Christmas sale for $5. Yes, five whole dollars.

And there you have it. I hope I haven't totally bored you silly. Now, go put on some festive Christmas tunes, and put your tree up already. Before it's too late.

Happy Christmas Friends!

OUR LITTLE ELF FRIEND

2009-12-02T04:30:00.001-07:00

So glad it's that time of year again to welcome our little "elf on the shelf" friend back from the attic, I mean, North Pole.

He has been bombarded today by requests for Santa from the kids. And miraculously our behavior has improved ever-so-slightly.

Although, I am somewhat concerned about the name the kids came up with. Drum roll please. . . .

Bird. That's right. Not Bert, but Bird. The only thing I can think, is that since I told the kids that he flies back to the North Pole every night to let Santa know if they had been naughty or nice, perhaps they thought he would feel right at home amongst the other flying things with a name like Bird. Thing 1 wanted Fred, but Thing 2 and her stubborn-ness won out. Bird it is.

So, without further ado, Welcome back Bird! Welcome back!

AS PROMISED

2009-12-01T16:17:00.004-07:00

So here are the pictures of the advent navity calendar I made last night for the kiddos (from the previous post), all laminated and lovely. Enjoy!
The Stable

All the peeps.

Mary, Josephy & baby Jesus

Wise men & their camels.

Singing and or yawning angel.

I so hope y'all decide to make these either with or for your little ones. I am so happy I took the time to do it, and I'm sure the kiddos will love it.

ON THE FIRST DAY OF CHRISTMAS. . .

2009-12-01T06:47:00.004-07:00

Oh man, is that the smallest picture ever? Ha. Well, just go with it.

So, it's finally December!!! HOORAH!!! I literally can't even tell you how happy I am that it is now December. For lots of reasons. But mostly because I love all things Christmas. I know it kinda doesn't go with my pessimistic personality, but it's true. I love Christmas. Like, you know how most people have been pissed for weeks that Christmas stuff has been in stores since Halloween? Well, not me. In fact, I've been listening to lite FM 100.3's (haters beware) all Christmas fare for a good three weeks. I thought maybe, much to Hubs chagrin, that it might hurry the holidays along. Every time I get in to drive "my" car after he's driven it, I have to change it off of NPR and over to my fm 100. I mean, who needs depressing talk radio when you can listen to Frosty the Snowman over and over again. And no, I'm not joking.

So, there is a reason for this post. I swear. So, every year, my uber-thoughtful/crafty mother makes a sticker advent calendar for my kids to count down the days until Mr. Claus arrives. She did this every year growing up for me and my brothers, and now does it for my children. I know, I really do have the best mother ever. In fact, every year when she hands me the sticker calendar, it's almost like, now it's officially the Christmas season.

The only problem with this sticker calendar, is that there is only one. And I've got two feisty (I wonder where they get it?) small children who apparently can fight over stickers like it's no one's business. Most days there is in-fact two part sticker application (Thank You MOM!), but some day's there's not. And well, I just didn't want to hear whining this close to Christmas. It's just not right.

So, I went looking on the Internet for some different advent calendar ideas and came across this little Nativity Advent Calendar. Each day you add a different animal, or nativity participant, until Christmas Day when the Christ Child is added and your nativity is complete. So, I thought one kid could sticker every evening, and the other could add to our nativity. Wala. Harmony in the home.

So here is the link from theideadoor.

Print all these pages on heavy card stock. Color with color pencils and markers. (I did mine last night and I must say, it turned out lovely) I will post pictures later, sorry. Once all the animals, and people have been colored, then cut them all out individually. Then comes the fun part. Lamination baby! I love laminating things. It's almost a problem. Almost. Anyhoo, laminate all the parts, then cut those out. Be sure to laminate the stable on one sheet. Along with the nativity, the project comes with The Christmas Story, and a little saying along with an item to add to the nativity each day. I plan on just hanging the stable on the fridge next the the sticker calendar. Then just roll up some tape and tape each item/animal/person on the stable as directed. The great thing about this, besides it being absolutely FREE!! is that since I laminated it all, I will be able to use this again, and again. Making it sort of a new family tradition. And saving me money over and over again. Go me. One kid stickers. One kid adds to the Nativity. Brilliant!

So, I promise I will post pictures of the calendar this afternoon, I just don't have time right now thanks to my super-long rambling post. Plus, I wanted to give you plenty of time to get it made so you and your kids can start adding to the nativity advent tonight.

Happy Christmas people, and Happy Advent-making as well!

A LITTLE FRESH TWIST FOR THE RIMMERS

2009-11-27T11:47:00.003-07:00

So, I've got a great little bit of news for those livin' in or near The Rim. A new little pay-by-the-ounce Fro Yo shop just opened up west of Cafe Rio and Citris Grill on 3300 south, and honestly, I couldn't be happier. As much as I love me some Maverick, and Top stop fro yo, both are more than a little bit of a drive. And frankly, I feel guilty sending Hubs out for such a drive all in the name of a little fro-yo. But now that we've got one right in our hood I hope to be a frequent visitor. Plus, they also have a serious assortment of toppings to go on your chosen yogurt. Fruit, candy, and the works. Makes my mouth water just thinking about it.

Here is their current list of yogurts on tap. Plus they have added pumpkin, and egg nog for the holidays.

In all honesty, I haven't tried it out yet, but it's on today's To-Do list. And I will be sure to update with my review later. Three Cheers for Fresh Twist upping the awesomeness of The Rim's thirty-third dining out options. Woohoo!~

UPDATE: We went and experienced Fresh Twist for ourselves yesterday and I must say, the Fro Yo was delish. I'm wishing they had a few more topping options, but I'm sure that will come with time. I couldn't decide between something sweet, and something tart, so I went for both! Love that! Half my bowl was french vanilla with a little bit of Butterfinger bits on top, and the other half was the Raspberry (my fav!) with a granola on top! And it was oh so yummy!

THANKSGIVING BREAKFAST

2009-11-25T18:44:00.003-07:00

So, I decided that Thanksgiving should be a day filled entirely with good eats. Because breakfast on this particular Thursday often gets overlooked, I've decided to whip up this little bit of lovely for tomorrow mornin'. I am hoping this makes watching the Thanksgiving day parade on T.V. with my kiddos a little more bearable. I mean, I can't even stand a real parade for heavens sakes let alone one on television. And although I've never made these sticky buns before, apparently it only takes 5 minutes of prep tonight, and 25 measly minutes of cookin' time in the a.m. Just my kinda cookin'. Here's the delicious goods if ya wanna give it a go yerself.

Overnight Sticky Buns

recipe courtesy of ShortStop

Place 14 frozen dinner rolls in a buttered bunt pan.

Sprinkle rolls with 6 T. of butterscotch pudding mix (not instant)

Mix together:

1 stick melted butter

2 tablespoons cinnamon

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Pour butter mixture over rolls.

Cover with foil, and let rise overnight.

Do. Not. Refrigerate.

In the morning, bake at 350 for 25 minutes.

Remove from oven and invert bunt pan onto circular platter.

Serve immediately.

mmmmmmmm. Sounds delish, right? Hope you all have a fabulous Thanksgiving tomorrow filled with lots of food, family and fun!

QUALIFY

2009-11-18T09:35:00.003-07:00

image credit: mario bellavite via flickr

So, about a week ago, something quite miraculous happened at our house. Some of you might not think it a very big deal, but I personally think it's one of those things in life that qualifies you. Like when all of a sudden your baby rolls over, and their not a newborn anymore. Or, your teenager learns to drive, and suddenly they are capable of so much more.

Well something like that happened here just last week. And it makes me absolutely giddy. Thing 2 learned how to pump. In other words, no longer will I have to spend hours upon hours at the park pushing her on the swings. Because apparently, to her, the swings are the only thing worth actually going to the park for. I guess she just figured, that if her brother could do it, so could she. And for 3.5 years old, I think it's pretty darn cool of her. And I no longer have a little child that needs my help. Nope, she is an official kid. A playing in the backyard kinda kid. Pumping and swinging and getting her knees all scrapped up and everything kinda kid.

And I love that.

Every morning at 7 a.m. she asks me if she can go outside and swing. You know, cause she can. All. By. Her. Self. Never mind the fact that it's a balmy 35 degrees out. No, she doesn't care, nor does any child really, who just wants to play. She gets herself dressed, puts on her coat, and hat, and heads outside with her brother, and they swing. And swing. And swing. And laugh. And swing. And I can see the pure joy on his face that he's got a built in friend in his little sister. She's cool, and will play spies with him, and swing with him all day long. She however, just grins from ear to ear with pride, because she no longer needs to be pushed. Nope. She can do it all. By. Her. Self. Just. Like. Her. Brother.

And for a moment I have a glimpse of what my future will be like with this amazingly smart, somewhat bossy, absolutely driven, energetic, at times sassy little girl. "No mom. I don't need you to tell me how to put mascara on. I figured it out, all.by.my.self. "

I am in for one heck of a ride.

I love you Thing 2!!! Congrats on learning how to pump!

A LITTLE BIT OF EYE CANDY IN MY MAILBOX

2009-11-16T14:19:00.003-07:00

Can I just take a moment and tell you all how much I love jcrew? Well, I do, and their latest catalog, was like a little piece of eye candy. I perused, and perused again. And even one more time. Just for good measure. Cause the pictures are just so lovely. Doesn't seem like a clothing magazine at all, but rather like a really cool photography art book that should belong on your coffee table. The pictures really are that charming.

And if we may, just for a moment, discuss the clothing? How great is their stuff lately? I'm just so impressed. The women's clothing is billowy, and light, and just so completely feminine. The Men's stuff is stylish, classic and rugged. (All things that make for a uber-handsome hubs. ;)) And the kids clothing? Where do I even begin? I've been a crew cuts fan for some time now (beginning with our family Christmas pictures last year) and continuing right on until today. And I will tell you what. One day, when I become super-rich, and have all sorts of savings, and retirement, and mission funds, etc, etc. Then, I am going to go and open a Crew Cuts franchise here in Salt Lake. Cause, I mean, really. Don't we have more children per square foot than any other state or something? Plus, I could really enjoy getting all those well made, cute, and classic clothes at cost.

But one of the greatest things about their most recent holiday catalog, was J.Crew's fabulous new gift guide. I mean really. Who wouldn't love to be a member of the "cashmere of the month club"? Or for those of you who fancy a little juje (accessories) like me, how about a gift to their "jewelry of the month club", or "shoe of the month club"? The gift that keeps on giving all year long. Pure marketing brilliance if you ask me. However, since they don't put said prices of clubs in the catalog or online, I'm sure they cost a pretty penny. But props for the creativity.

So, if you are like me, and love to browse a free catalog, do yourself a favor. Order one from j.crew and just enjoy. And hey, you might even find something to add to your wish list for Santa this year. ;)

Happy Perusing!

COUPON LOVE

2009-11-13T04:47:00.000-07:00

A little coupon love for ya. Janie and Jack's Friends and Family starts today and goes through the weekend. Gotta love 25% off!