YOUR DAILY GIGGLE

Too bad I didn't have this a few weeks ago for Mother's Day. I thought this was hilarious.

All you mothers and mothers-to-be, enjoy!

ONLY 5.5 HOURS UNTIL. . . . .

The Season Finale of Lost!!!!!


But who's counting?

TUESDAY'S TIP Publish in the future

Hey all you awesome bloggers out there blogging with blogger:

Whoa. That was a lot of blog in one sentence.

Did you know that you can now write posts and schedule them to post/publish at a later date? It's one of bloggers newest features, and I have been enjoying it for quite some time now. And I wanted to share it with all of my favorite bloggers in case you didn't know. It really is the greatest thing ever. Gonna be out of town for a few days? Wanna take a few days off from blogging without your readers ever knowing? Well now you can.

Okay, so here is how it works: Just go to your create a post page, and create a post like you would normally do. When you are finished instead of clicking the orange publish post button, click the "post option" link in blue right above the publish post. Then, just set the date and time you would like your newly created post to publish. For a more detailed explanation from Blogger, just click here.

So I know it doesn't sound all that exciting, but for someone like me, who tends to cluster post, has kids (in other words, not a lot of time), and likes to post on a somewhat fairly frequent basis, it really has been quite handy. Check it out if you'd like. And post away!

THURSDAY AT THE GYM

So I just got back from the gym, since I am too big a wuss to run in the rain, or snow or really anything except perfect weather. Yes, the conditions have to be perfect. Sorry Kelly, Kristine, Jenny, Suzanne, and Marianne for bailing out this morning. I'd just rather pretty much do anything than run in the rain. Well, to be honest, I'd rather do pretty much anything else besides run period. But thanks to Hubs I have to get in shape for that awesoem race he so kindly signed me up for without my knowledge.


So anyways, there I was busting my butt through my fiver today on the treadmill when I look at the treadmill in front of me, and this lady has, I kid you not, flip flops on. Seriously. And that wouldn't have been the worst thing ever, but then I look down again, and not only is she wearing flip flops, but they are those flip flops from a few years ago that have like little teeny two-inch heels on them. But did you forget, that we weren't at the beach or the mall? No, we were on treadmills at the gym. And that's not all folks, no, she has high-heeled flip flops on with. . . . . . SOCKS! Ya know, in case her feet get sweaty I guess. On. The. Treadmill. Oh, man. Made me giggle.


Ya really just never know what you're gonna get at the gym. I love the gym for people watching opportunities. Remember when I thought I saw John Corbett and almost asked him for his autograph, but then realized it wasn't him? Man, my gym is awesome.

SET YOUR TIVOS CAUSE SYTYCD STARTS TONIGHT!

You guys, I am totally not in the least bit embarrassed to admit this, although for some reason I'm thinking I should be, but I am so completely stoked that SYTYCD is back! Starting tonight! And a two-hour premiere! Yay!

I really hope Cat is back again cause I can't get enough of her lovely accent. And I hope Wade Robson will make a few cameos this season as well, because his choreography is just sick. And I even heard Nigel say that they came to SLC twice for auditions cause lets face it, SLC rocks! I mean come on, they even film HSM here cause of all the sweet dancers. So I will be keeping my eyes peeled for a few SLC hot spots.

I have been enjoying this fabulous show since the very first season. Holla to Benji! It is so fun to watch those dancers. They are insane, and can really move. And to be honest I'm just so jealous. I covet their sweet dance moves. My only moves are the sprinkler and the running man. Wow I'm old.

Okay, so if you are interested SYTYCD starts tonight. And I will for sure be doing weekly re-caps. And rooting for whoever it is has the SLC connection. Yay!

And because I know you were wondering, that is totally me in the above picture. I wish.

SPIDEY GOES TO COSTCO

Okay, so, where to begin? Well, I guess I will start out by saying that one of my best moves I've made as a mother in my children's eyes, would be having our huge trunk full of costumes/dress ups I've accumulated over the years. I bought most of them online at www.buycostumes.com a few Summers ago from the clearance bin. And my kids love them. And consequently play with them almost daily. And all of their little friends enjoy dressing up as well. And it's been a great way for them to be imaginative and crazy. . . . when they dress up AT HOME.

And the hit of the bunch lately has been this Spider man Costume I actually bought from Costco last fall. But honestly, if I have to put this darn spider man costume on Thing 1 one more time I think I'm gonna scream.

So last Thursday I needed to run to Costco to pick up a few things for my girls-only weekend getaway. And if any of you remember last Thursday in particular you might remember that it was a bit hot. Not dreadfully hot or anything, but hello, it is May. Well, this particular day, like most days, included Thing 1 insisting upon wearing said spiderman costume around as his clothing. Usually in the winter it goes over his clothes, and sooner or later he gets hot and sweaty and off it goes. But lately? He wants to wear it EVERYWHERE. And Costco was no exception. Except now, that it is getting warm, he likes to only wear his undies (spiderman of course) underneath so the padded (fake muscles are important) costume doesn't get too hot. And I told him, "You are going to be too hot. Let's wear "normal" clothes to the store, then as soon as you get home we can put spidey back on." Well, he didn't like that, and started telling me all of the reasons he needed to be spiderman. Which included being able to save Costco in case of an intruder. Seriously. And I wasn't in the mood for an argument, so I chose not to fight this battle. Well, at last not right at that moment. We put the costume on, and got in the car. Well, I did at least talk him into keeping the mask at home, which was a good thing. Cause really, that mask is ridiculous with it's two mini Velcro spots. Keeps falling off, all day. Which just means I spend my day velcroing the mask back on every 20 seconds. My life is riveting, I know.

So anyways, there we are walking around Costco when Thing 1 announces that he is hot. Really? In a fully padded suit from your neck to your ankles? I can't imagine why? Well, remember his logic about no clothes underneath? Well, that didn't really pan out so well, given we were in public and I look over and my three-year old is stripping down to his drawers right smack dab in the fruit section. Yes, lovely. And just so you know, apparently my three-year old has no qualms about being seen in his underwear in public. Might be my re-occurring nightmare, but apparently he finds it freeing, and not in the least bit embarrassing. Well, remember back when I said letting my three-year-old wear his costume to the grocery store wasn't a battle I was willing to fight? Well, allowing my three-year-old to walk, er rather run around Costco in his skivvies is one I am willing to fight.. . and win. Most importantly so my face would fade back to it's normal color. Somehow (thank heaven) I talk the kid into putting the costume back on (in case of an intruder, he'd be ready. Or something--but just the legs) and tying the arms around his waist so he was just nekkid on top. Shirtless rather. And it did take some serious coaxing, well, to be honest I did some serious bribery right there by those grapes. But it was worth it. A bag of Costco-sized dum dums later, we made it home, mostly dressed.

And what did I learn? Well, first off, my three-year old is getting too darn smart and sneaky. I'm gonna have to start switching up my parenting tactics with this one. Secondly, I'm really looking forward to an entire Summer with Thing 1 (note the sarcasm). And Thirdly, you can bet your bottom dollar the minute Thing 1 went to bed that night I hid that costume. Am I mean? Yes. Will spidey return? Yes. Probably. Yes. I just need a few days break. Really. At least that is what I keep telling myself. And for now, I am thoroughly enjoying my spidey-free days.

TUESDAY'S TIP ants-b-gone

It's Tuesday again, so. . .

Do ya have ants? I really hope not. But if you did, all you would have to do is:

Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it; take it "home”, can't digest it so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works & you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed!



I really have no idea if this works, but it is again one of those random e-mails I get from Mary Jo. Have I mentioned she rocks? Full of large amounts of random information. If I ever get ants, I'll let you know how it goes. Although, a week does seem like an especially long time when you are dealing with pesky bugs.

GPG GETAWAY 2008

Harley & Bucks. Jill, Abby, Stace, Ash, me, Sara, Katy & Trish. I know this isn't the best picture we got, but it's the only one on my camera with most of us in it at the same time.


Okay, so this weekend was an absolute blast. 9 of my best girlfriends went up to Eden for some much needed girl-time before Ash heads of to NC for the next 6 years. It was so much fun. We left Thursday night and didn't get home until late last night. Three whole days with the girls. It really was so nice and relaxing.


Thursday night we arrived late, talked until the wee hours of the night ( or was it morning?) and then went to bed thinking I'd get to sleep in for the first time in ages. Well, that was a good plan, but as soon as 6 am came I was up. I guess my body is so used to waking up for my 6 am run that it just assumed I'd want to do it while I was on vacation. This wasn't the case. But luckily, I was able to go back to sleep. But don't you even for a second think I really slept in. By 8 I was up for good. It really is sad what happens to your sleeping habits when you have children. Before kids I used to relish sleeping in. Now, 8 a.m. is as late as it gets. Lame.


Friday morning we went for a long walk, ate breakfast, showered and pretty soon the rest of the girls were there. It is so funny that we need absolutely NO entertainment cause we could all just sit around and talk for hours and be happy as could be. And that is just what we did. Around five we headed into town (if you could call it that) for a little boutique shopping and dinner at Harley & Bucks. Which was way yummy. If you are ever in that area, I definitely recommend it. BBQ, burgers, tacos, sandwiches, ribs, steaks. The good stuff. After dinner we headed back to the gorgeous mansion we were staying at for a little more of the usual (gabbing), but we did have the Jazz game on in the background.


The place we stayed was Abby (Rogers) Pohlman's, and it was simply lovely. 7 Beds, 5 baths, game room, play room, hot tub, gourmet kitchen and the best comfy, mushy sectional couch EVER. Hey, it fit nine girls comfortably every night. And that is saying something. It is a seriously sweet couch if you ask me.


Saturday morning Stacie and I got up and ran about 8 miles of the Ogden Marathon with my mom who runs it every year. And it was gorgeous. And she did great. We met her at the half-way point, and ran with her up and around the reservoir, and it was beautiful. Rolling green hills, glass-like water, snow-capped mountains in the distance, and a perfect sixty-eight degrees. After we ran we came home, layed out by the pool for an hour or so, had lunch and just mostly talked, watched 27 Dressses, and talked, and talked some more until dinner. We had the yummiest cheesy chicken enchiladas (thanks Jen) and faux fried ice cream that Jill made us that really was the yummiest desert I'd had in a long time. Then it was time to bust out some games. We played a board game for a bit then headed downstairs for some serious game time. We played indoor GPG four square, had a way fun round-the world ping pong tournament, and even played musical chairs (don't ask). Anything with these 9 girls is a blast. I was seriously laughing so hard the whole time. My side and cheeks were killing me by the end. Then we caught the end of SNL (Steve Carrol is hilarious), talked some more and then went to bed at another crazy hour.

Sunday again I tried to sleep in, but 6 seems to be my optimal wake-up time. We made breakfast, talked some more, cleaned up, had lunch, played Ticket To Ride (where I kicked everyone's aces) and then watched Becoming Jane. After that we got our stuff together and it was time to head home. We really had the best time ever. So many fun times. I'm grinning just thinking about them. I love to get together with these girls. We always have such a crazy time. No kids, no husbands, and just the girls. We decided that this would be the beginning of a yearly tradition for us. Although the location will change, the friendships and love we have for each other will always remain.


I love you girls.


My top ten 2008 Eden memories:

10. Eating dinner with the gals at Harley & Bucks.
9. The enormous, smushy, super-comfy sectional where most of our good chats went down. Including our autism/immunization debate. Love you Abbs.
8. Jen's enchilada's, Jill's faux-fried ice cream, and Sara's granola. Yum-0.
7. Diet Coke, and redbox runs with the girls.
6. Katy & Jill and their adorable baby bellies. I love prego chicks.
5. Running part of the Ogden marathon with my mom & Stacie.
4. The person who will remain nameless and the effects of their lingering raw broccoli.
3. Stacie's round-the-world ping pong victory dance. (I tried to get this on video, but my battery ran out seriously at that same moment.)
2. Musical chairs (Again don't ask)
1. Getting to know my best girlfriends even better.


Thankyou so much girls for all the new, fun, inside jokes, memories and belly laughs. It couldn't have been sweeter.


Dinner at Harley & Bucks. Sara, Katy & Trish. Sorry about the close-up Trish.
Jill, Abbs, & Stace.
Stacie & Ash.
Our super-serious round-the-world ping pong tourney.
Sorry about all the weird water marks. I need a new camera.
Jill & Stace the ping-pong champions do a serious final playoff with the hit & spin. Yes, Stace is sporting a Skyline sweatshirt. Holla.
The three ping-pong champs. (There were only two paddles.)

TUESDAY'S TIP Leftover Snickers?

Okay so this tip comes courtesy again, of the ever-fabulous Mary Jo. So when you are devouring your treat, you can thank her not me.

This tip starts out, "Take leftover snickers bars from Halloween. . ." Wait, what? Leftover Snickers? That so does not happen. Ever. I mean, lets be serious here. Leftover Halloween candy is like the smarties, toothbrushes, and tootsie rolls. But Snicker bars? Yeah right. That was like hitting the lottery. Leftover snickers bars is like an oxymoron in my world, but whatever. So, if you have leftover ones, use them. Otherwise, head out and get yourself some snicker bars (funnily whenever anyone ever talks about snicker bars, I always think of Ms. Weese, I mean Reese, at Wasatch who taught geometry and would always introduce herself at the beginning of each semester by saying that she likes Snickew baws and owanges.) So anyways, get the snickers, chop them up in a food chopper. Peel, core and slice a few apples. place them in a baking dish and sprinkle the chopped candy bars over the apples. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes. Serve alone or with vanilla bean ice cream.


I know, right? You. Are. Welcome.

GOOD LINKS

• if this is true I need to ask for a raise.
• I really liked this post all about the Miley Cyrus/Annie Leibowitz controversy.
• This made me cry.

SURVIVOR: TRIPLE THREAT

So, Sunday night when I was watching the season finale of Survivor: Micronesia (and loving every minute of it by the way), I couldn’t help thinking that Survivor really is good for more than just winning a million dollars. Although that really is great and all, we must discuss the other wonderful-ness that is Survivor is made of.



Okay, first off, why are you laughing? Is it because Survivor is so very 90’s? Well, whatever. Survivor is the greatest reality show out there in my opinion. The set-up of the game, the challenges, the whole “let’s throw you out on a deserted island with nothing to eat and a bunch of really annoying people and see how you fair” thing. Combine that with Probst’s dimples, and really, what more do you need? In my mind, it’s brilliant. It’s got to be good a good game/show, if you can have this many seasons and the show is new, different and exciting every time.



And now that we are discussing it, can I just say that this season of Survivor was my absolute favorite? It really was the best. If you haven’t been watching then, you should rent this season on DVD the minute it comes out. It really just was that good. It was fans vs. favorites this season. Meaning they brought people who’d already been on once before for a second shot at a million, and their biggest fans. It made for fantastic TV. And the chicks just killed it this season. Final 4 girls. And because the women were in charge there were lots of blindsides and manipulation. And it was awesome! And poor Eric. Oh man. So so so dumb.



But this is not what I want to discuss today.



I have something much more important. Do I have any single people out there? You wanna find love? How about reality TV love? Well, okay, now whatever you do, DO NOT sign up for The Bachelor. I mean really, are any of those couples still together? Really, if you want to find love, I am convinced Survivor is the reality show where you can find it. I mean, come on, every season there are at least a few love matches and this one was no exception. And there have even been a few to last outside of the season and even one that ended up married. Take Rob and Amber from the All Star season. Ethan & Jenna, Ozzie & Amanda. And really, let’s be honest, even Jeff Probst found love with Julie Berry from the Vanautu season. And if the host can even find love, then it must be the place to find love. And if I’m not retarded, that seems to be a better turn-out than all of the Bachelors combined. And I’m sure I’m leaving a few dozen other Survivor couples out. Seriously, that show should be renamed Jungle Love. It’s crazy. Must be something in all that coconut their eating.



Another great thing about Survivor? Need to loose a few pounds? Don’t sign up for The Biggest Loser. Just sign up for Survivor. I promise you will lose weight when your diet consists of coconuts, bats and rats. Plus, Survivor has a bigger payout.



So really, it’s simple my friends. If you want to loose weight, find love or pay off some bills, Survivor is the show to be on. And as much as I love to watch, I would be the crappiest Survivor ever. I would be the one crying in the cave when it’s been raining for 7 days straight. And I don’t like to eat bugs, or rodents really. But I would like to have a million dollars. So maybe. . . .



I could send Hubs! Perfect. He really would be a fantastic Survivor. He is as fit as a fiddle, probably could climb a coconut tree pretty fast, can play chess like a champ (strategy), tivos Survivorman, and lets face it, if he can live with me, then he could probably handle any other crazy people for 39 days. Plus, I think secretly being on Survivor would be his ultimate. All that testosterone you need to build a fire.



Okay, now I am straying from the point of this post. Yes, there was a point. Let me find it. Oh, yes,
1. Survivor rocks. All seasons but, like 2 seasons ago, have been awesome.
2. Survivor clearly has the best reality TV odds at finding love.
3. Survivor also has a nice built-in weight loss program, which is a nice perk.
4. I would love to play Survivor, but I would so be the first one out.
5. I should send Hubs to play Survivor instead. He would win. But I would hope he doesn’t find love or lose weight, cause in those two areas he is already set.
6. Survivor this season was 2 Legit 2 Quit.

Hope you are all having a good one!

PRODUCT JUNKIE Daily Bread

So, if you are anything like me, whenever you hear the words food storage you just mostly just pretend you didn't. That's right. I used to be one of those non-practicing food storage Latter-Day-Saints. Gasp! The shock. Sinead O' Rebellion. That's right. I admit it.

Even though many, many righteous men & women have told me "Be Prepared", I just couldn't. Or didn't. Or didn't want too. Honestly, even the thought or idea, or (even worse) a lesson, on food storage was enough to have me run into the cultural hall and slam my head against the brick walls over and over again.

In the past this concept has been just too difficult to wrap my little catastrophe-avoiding mind around. I mean, yes, I am aware that I'm supposed to have a food storage. And yes, I'm aware that I live VERY CLOSE to a fault line. And yes, I see the wisdom. But no, I don't want to discuss it.

I guess I just figured if there ever was a real need, or calamity or something, I'd just walk the mile and a half to my parents house and eat theirs. Except well, now it's not quite that easy. You see, I'd have to drag my three year old and two year old all the way there too, and share it with them and all (I hope you can hear the sarcasm in my voice people). Plus, my parents have had theirs since I was a kid, so really I would be petty scared to open up those boxes. I think I'd rather starve.

There are just so many good reasons for me NOT to have it. Well, firstly, to be quite honest I don't cook. Seriously. Some people say that to sound cool or something, but no really, I can't cook. At all. Ever. And when I do, it's bad. So I've just decided to stay away from it altogether. (No, we don't eat out every meal. Lucky for me Hubs is a fantastic cook.) So usually in the past when I've thought of food storage I've thought of those 500 pound barrels of wheat sitting in some one's basement. Oh great. What on earth am I going to do with 5oo pounds of wheat? Grind it? Yeah right. Bake it? In what? In my opinion if things are so bad, that I am desperate enough to resort to my barrel of wheat, then I doubt I'm gonna have an electric grinder, or an oven to bake that darn wheat in. So then, I guess I could just have to eat the wheat kernels raw. Nah, I think I'd rather die. So that whole idea, was out.

And Hubs idea of food storage was alot easier. So easy in fact, its almost non-existent. And it's super cheap, well, free really. You don't have to store anything, or bake. Yes, his idea of food storage was keeping all the past episodes of Survivorman and Man Vs. Wild on our DVR. Hmmm. Yeah.

Yes, there are other ways to go about food storage. Like my previous method. 700 cans of Spagettios in my pantry. Yum. But then I realized that 3 months on Spagettios was going to be about as much fun as eating the raw wheat. Plus, I guess I hear that Spagettios don't last forever (shock!) so eventually you have to replace them, and yadda yadda. You can see why all my previous attempts at gaining a food storage haven't been so successful.

Until . . . .

I heard about Daily Bread. They are a little company that started after the recent Asia tsunami tragedy. A few guys who were friends realized that their families were really unprepared in the case of an emergency and so they sought out a way to obtain a food storage. (Been there done that.) But they quickly ran into some of the problems I had. The expense, obstacles of storing it (not enough space, rotation, etc.), how long it would last, and how to use it. So they started looking into freeze dried foods. Okay, so I know what you are thinking. But stay with me. Are you having bad flashbacks to your scouting days when you had to try an MRE? Well, these are much the same, except they taste really, really good. I promise.

Basically what they are is freeze dried food. And all you have to do is add water. Seriously. If it's hot water, they taste better, but really, hot water, and let it sit for about 10 minutes and then, walla, you have a meal. This is my kind of cooking. No measuring, grinding, kneading, or baking. Just open, pour, stir, open, eat. Simple right? But the best thing about all of it, in my humble opinion, is the fact that it lasts TWENTY FIVE YEARS!!! Did you get that? 25 Years!

That's right. No rotating the food. No worrying about the food being bad, or opening it up to only find weavels or something gross. Nope, it's completely good for twenty five years, and in most cases, even longer. And if you even think for a minute in 25 years it won't taste that great, guess what? You are wrong. It tastes the same today as it will then. And speaking of taste. . .

It really is good. Vegetables, meat, potatoes. The good stuff. And are you worried about the price? Well, you shouldn't be. It's only about $2.30 a serving. That's pretty darn good. We got our family set up for an entire years worth of food. And the best part? We didn't have to pay it all out in one lump sum, which has been another factor adding to our reasons we've been putting this off. Daily Bread is allowing us to pay it in a few monthly installments. Yay. In just a few short months, I'll be free from ever worrying about food storage again. At least, for 25 years. And storing it? It's all so small, that it fits under a bed, or in a closet even. No needing an entire storage or pantry for this stuff.

And the best part? No more nightmares of raw wheat or Spagettios for this girl. Nope. My family is covered. And ya know what? It feels great. It's nice to finally have that annoying "food storage monkey" off my back. And now, I won't be going to hell. Well, at least not for not having food storage for my family. Now I can say "Yes !"with pride in my temple recommend interview when asked about food storage.

Okay, so if you are at all interested in getting more information, you can head on over to their website, or if you live in the Land of Zion you can just give this super friendly guy that sold us ours a call. His name is Zach Brown. His phone number is 669-6094. Or you can e-mail him at bwrestler13o@gmail.com. I swear I do not get a single dime if you call him. But you still should. Just to taste the stuff. Cause really, I now know your families food storage plan is to come over to my house in the case of an emergency, but you know we won't be just letting that stuff go for free. Hey we are Christians, so we'll barter. And just so you know we really like the white and pink frosted circus animal cookies with the sprinkles.

You are welcome.

I'd say nap time today was a success. You?

PRODUCT JUNKIE rei sale baby!

Well, hello everyone. I hope you are all having a fan-double-tastic Thursday. I just wanted to make sure you all knew about one of my favorite sales of the year. The REI anniversary sale. It's always a good one. And REI is within spitting distance so, we like it. Plus, if you are a member you can save an extra 20% off one item. And that is just fantastic if you ask me. We hit this sale every year without fail, and here are some of REI 08 anniversary sale purchases.

1st item:
So, do you see this beauty? All I can say is, Happy Mothers Day to me. Remember a ways back when I told you Hubs had so lovingly and graciously signed me up for the Ragnar Relay without my approval? Well, by darn it, it's turning out to be a great thing. (But don't tell him that, or he'll start signing me up for all sorts of other crap left and right without my approval.) So, anyways this little gadget is the Garmin 205. And isn't it beautiful? Hubs received one for Christmas from my parents last year, and I have been borrowing (and coveting) his everyday since. But I really wanted to get my own so I could track my own runs, and tally calories burned (so I knew how many Creamy's from the day before I'd burned off) and all that. Plus, sharing items you sweat on is not something I recommend. And then, like a sign from God, my REI anniversary magazine comes in the mail. And there it is. My future Garmin 205 staring up at me from the page. And on sale! And practically yelling at me. "Buy me! I'm on sale! I will make you happy! And thin! And buy me!" So, what's a girl to do? Well, I went up and bought it of course. And I've been happily enjoying it ever since. And now that I even have a running group (yay! Holla Christine, Kelly, Jenny, Suzanne & Marinanne) it's been awesome to see exactly how far we are running and just how slow or fast we are going. Yep, we are up to 4.5 miles a few times a week. And it feels great. I mean, it feels nice to be getting in shape, but the early-morning start (6am), although I thought at first it might kill me, is turning out to be something I (gasp!) almost look forward too. It's nice to get out, start my day off with a little workout and get to chat with the girls the whole way. There is something priceless about being about to discuss your dismay at Lauren & Brody not ever actually making it to "couple-hood" and swooning for a few minutes about Steven making an appearance, and dogging Heidi & Spencer for a few blocks that just sets my day off on the right foot.** Maybe Hubs knew that deep down somewhere in some small hollow spot in my heart there is a place that LOVES early morning runs with good girlfriends. Maybe that's why he signed me up. Then again, maybe he just needed another runner.


Okay, next item purchased:

How cute are these Keens? Got Thing 2 and me matching pairs! (Are you rolling your eyes? That's okay so did Hubs.) Did you know that if you wear a 7 1/2 or smaller in women's shoes then you can fit into kids shoes? Well, I have been sporting kids shoes since back in the day when Doc Martens were all the rage. Wow, that dates me a bit. Doc Martin's and Girbauds. The nineties rocked! Hey, don't laugh. Kids shoes, especially brand name ones, are made just as well as their adult counterparts for like 1/4-1/2 the price. $30 versus $100. No question. And if you've never worn Keens, really I don't know what to say to you other than, "You are missing out on a little slice of heaven right here on earth." That's right. It's like walking in mashed potatoes. Except without the lumps, and goo and mess. Okay, bad analogy. Just try some on already. Your feet can thank me later.

Third item purchased:

Each year we hit this sale to get the kids their sandals for the summer. Thing 1 did not want to match is sister and mother. And he politely told me so, by yelling at the top of his lungs in front of everyone that he did "not want to wear girl shoes"And I can't really blame him. Except for the yelling. Dang, for having a hearing loss, that kid sure can make some noise. So, he picked this lovely shade of green instead.

Okay, so if your interested in channeling your inner granola, head on over HERE and check out the sweet sale.

** Yes, I know it's fake. But so is Diet Dr. Pepper. And even though we all know it will probably kill us one day (aspartame), we still love it, covet it, and drink it. Because of it's fake syrupy goodness. Just sing along with U2 and me, "Even better than the real thing."

TUESDAY'S TIP gas prices

Okay, well today's tip comes again from good old Mary Jo. She never disappoints. Today she sent me a little link that I think just maybe, might need to be added to my favorites list. And it came just in the nick of time. Saturday Hubs thought he would do me a favor and stop off and fill up my car for me. This was very sweet. But I think he almost had a heart attack when he found out it was $75 bucks to fill er up. Maybe next time he will head on ova here first, pop in our zip code, see where he can save, and fill er up there.


I wish I had one of those cool electric cars. That look like they have no doors or windows or roofs. Maybe this wouldn't be fantastic with kids, but it would be fun.


And a lot cheaper.

A LITTLE BIRTHDAY FIB

Yesterday, after primary, but before Sacrament meeting, the primary president comes running toward me with a worried look on her face and says, "Oh my goodness. I feel horrible. Did we forget Thing 1's birthday this month?"


I kind of look at her strangly, and say, "Um, No. Thing 1's birthday isn't until August."


She looks back at me, and we both begin smiling, because the reality of the situation and basically knowing Thing 1, starts to come together for both of us and she says, "Well, he must like suckers."







Yep. My three-year-old lies at church. I mean, come on. At least if your gonna lie, don't do it at church. Come on kid. Where's your morals? Lying in church about your birthday for a sucker? Classic.

JUST ANOTHER MANIC MONDAY

Okay, if I may, I'd like to discuss something that's been ruffling my feathers ever since March 18th, and frankly, I just can't seem to let it go.


What is it you ask? Well, let me tell you.


March 18th just so happened to be Hub's birthday, and being the fantastic wife that I am, I threw my two kids into the bath, made them look presentable, swung by Costco, picked up some cupcakes, and balloons and headed over to Hub's office to surprise him.


And that is when it happened. The little occurrence that will forever be known as "the incidence of ot-eight". . Seriously, so furious.


Okay, so some quick background. Hubs is a fantastic commercial real-estate agent. (Really. If you need some commercial space, just ask him.) When you are in this business you work for a broker. Well, sort of. Well, better said, is you work under a brokerage. All the agents, including Hubs are really independent contractors. Which is just a fancy way of saying they work for themselves, and have to pay all their taxes. Glamorous right?


Okay, so back to the office. There I am with two kids in tow, mind you, and Hubs is no where to be seen. Apparently he went out for a little birthday lunch with his partners. Which is totally fine. I should have called, but really, that would have ruined the surprise. So, I turn around, and one of Hub's co-workers who sits a cube over stands up, walks over to say hi.


And normally this would have been fine. BUT IT WASN'T. Why, you ask?


Because, he had a huge mouthful of barfalicious, disgusting, nasty chew. Yes, as in Tobacco chew. And a spit cup. And I was so mortified, and completely grossed out, that I didn't even say Hi back. He probably thinks I'm a bitch now. Which is partly true. But really, chew in the office?!?!?!?!?!?!


It's just disgusting. EwWWWWW! Not to mention, then Thing 1 asks me what he had in his mouth. I am thinking to myself, Really, I'm going to have this conversation, no, not at a ballpark, but at the OFFICE?


Uggg. Now, am I not conveying my complete and total distaste, and disgust at this whole thing? Well then, LET ME BE CLEAR. I was totally disgusted, and irate, and grossed out. So, I grab my kids and leave.


So, of course the first thing I practically shout at Hubs on his birthday no less, "They let you chew tobacco at work?!?!?!!?" His response?


"Well, not me, but technically? Yes, I guess. We are independent contractors, so we really aren't employees." Then he goes on. . . "Allot of guys at the office do it. It's not just (barf-head who sits next to me)."


"What? That is insane! Not to mention, gross, disgusting, and unsanitary!!!!!"


Hubs just laughs. I want to ring his neck, his gross co-workers neck, and the owner of his brokerage's neck.





Okay, now seriously, how is this okay? I mean I get that they are not employees, but really, do they have some sort of office policy? Dress codes? Well, no. And I mean I guess I sort of get the logic behind it, because I realize if you take tobacco away, then you have to take coffee away, and then god-forbid short skirts and midriffs, and then what do you have? A normal office maybe? Strange concept.


But the thing is, coffee can make your co-workers breath reek, but really that doesn't affect you. Short skirts, can make you cringe when you see a bit too-much but it's not going to kill you, but tobacco? It affects everyone. Everyone who has to see you with that ridiculously big fat yucky lip sticking out and your nasty chew cup. Everyone has to hear and see them spit. This has to make for a lovely work environment.


Seriously. Iamthisclose to writing an anonymous letter to the owner of his brokerage, only now I guess it won't be quite so anonymous. But really, am I the only one who finds this ridiculous?


I mean, I think it's disgusting. Spit cups at work? You have got to be kidding me. I think it is stupid enough on the ballfield, but at the office? EWWWWWWW!!!!




So, my question is, what is a girl to do? Just turn my head, ignore the stupidity of others, or take some sort of action? And if it's action, then what? A letter, a bad look, a conversation? And with who? Mind you, Hubs job is kinda important to our family. So, I don't know. If this was my gross neighbor at his house, then fine. Do what you may in your own free time on your own personal property. But at a place of business?!?!?!?!




And I apologize in advance to Hubs for having to listen to this rant one last time, and to my family who has heard me bitch and moan about this since March. Sorry, but chew at work? INSANE!

THE LACE PLACE

Oh the wonderful thing about girls,

Is you can put their hair into curls,

or a pony, or pigtail, braids or fishtail,

But with a ribbon you won't ever fail.

Gotta love the ribbon selection at the Lace Place. Now that Thing 2 has enough hair for piggies, and ponies, we decided to pick up some ribbon for fun. And let me tell you, it was.

PRODUCT JUNKIE Livestrong

Just wanted to share my latest love. At least when it comes to running clothes that is. Ordered these a few weeks back and have been enjoying them ever since. Now, don't get me wrong, it doesn't make it any easier to run. No, I still hate, wait--loathe, every step, but at least now, I know I look good. And come on, that's what really matters right?

And just because I love you all so very much, I thought I'd pass on a little discount to you my good friends. Now through May 8th take 15% off your order. They have running gear, cycling gear, golfing gear, and the good old yellow wrist bands. Plus lots of other stuff. Maybe it might be a good gift for that mother in your life? Wink, wink. Plus, it all goes towards a good cause. What could be better really? So, for all you athletic types, or couch potatoes with athletic mamas, ya might want to head on ova here to pick up some good stuff. You can thank me later.

MAY DAY, MAY DAY!

I really can't think of a better way to ring in may than with a few inches of snow. I kid, I kid.

Happy May Day Everyone!

TUESDAY'S TIP 31 cent scoop & boosterseats

Okay, so because I was late posting Tuesday's Tip, I am gonna do double duty just to show y'all how much I love ya!


So as many of you probably already know, TODAY-TONIGHT April 30th is 31 cent scoop night at Baskin Robins. From 5 to 11pm tonight you can join in on the all the fun. This delicious promotion helps the American Fire Fighters Assoc. so head on in for a good cause and some good ice cream at a great price.

See you there!

My next tip, is a little more on the safe side. Not nearly as fun, but twice as important. Next Monday the new Booster Seat Law goes into effect.

The new law states that any child under age eight MUST be in a booster seat or pay! Booster seats save lives people! There is one exception, children under 8 who are taller than 57 inches may sit in a regular seat with seat belt. To read up on the new law click here!

Please, please, if you have a child under 8, do the smart thing. Boost and Buckle!

FANCY NANCY

So, are any of you familiar with this book? If not, you must check it out. I simply love it. For many reasons. Nancy reminds me a bit of Olivia. They both understand the importance of accessorizng.


Yesterday at Thing 1's tee ball game, there was a little girl on his team who reminded me of Nancy. She had on red sparkly shoes (think Dorothy from Oz), a crown, a touch of blue eyeshadow, and a pink glove.


And I loved it. A girl who can play ball, and accessorize. Now, that's my kinda girl.

FOR TODAY:

Just for today I am loving that I have these adorable fingernails attached to these cute, squishy, baby hands so that I can paint them this lovely shade of fuschia.


This is Thing 2's first time ever letting her mama paint her nails. She sqealed with delight, I ate my cereal through watery eyes, because of the pure joy it brings me to know I have a girl to share these priceless moments with.


A little breakfast mani. Life is grand.

HAPPY EARTH DAY FRIENDS!

In honor of Earth Day 2008, I am going to recycle like a banshie, reduce my usual toilet paper quota by 2 sheets (whoa!), imagine myself planting a tree, and then walk outside, smell the semi-clean air and sing kumbaya with my children.

Happy Earth Day!

TUESDAY'S TIP petunia pickle bottom

Today's tip comes curtesy of Petunia Pickle Bottom themselves. I'm sure you've heard of and seen their lovely diaper bags, clothing and crib bedding. And normally I would put a cute picture of one of their adorable bags up, but PPB has disabled the lovely right click on their site, so you will just have to click here, to view their darling products.


Anyways, Petunia is having their semi-annual online sample sale. This is where you can get secconds, and discontinued items at more than half off. To check out the inventory go here.


Don't have a baby yourself? Trust me when I say, any new mother would be thrilled to get a PPB diaperbag, set of onesies, blankie, or crib bedding set for their new baby. And you'd better hurry cause the sale starts today, and ends on the 28th. So it won't last long. So go ahead already, shop your little heart out.








Oh, and one more tip. I just got an e-mail from Hugs & Bugs Children's Botique (2261 E. 3300 S.). They are having a last-chance opportunity to shop the last of their inventory (plus a few boxes of new things) before they close their doors for good. Everything will be 75% off! But hurry in today because this is a one-day only sale. Tuesday April 22 from 5-9 p.m. See you there!

MICHAEL ENDORSES OBAMA

I realize this might be a little much for some of you right-wingers out there, but I found this letter insightful, thought-provoking, and of course humorous (it's michael moore after all). Enjoy!

Monday, April 21st, 2008My Vote's for Obama (if I could vote) ...by Michael Moore

Friends,

I don't get to vote for President this primary season. I live in Michigan. The party leaders (both here and in D.C.) couldn't get their act together, and thus our votes will not be counted.
So, if you live in Pennsylvania, can you do me a favor? Will you please cast my vote -- and yours -- on Tuesday for Senator Barack Obama?

I haven't spoken publicly 'til now as to who I would vote for, primarily for two reasons: 1) Who cares?; and 2) I (and most people I know) don't give a rat's ass whose name is on the ballot in November, as long as there's a picture of JFK and FDR riding a donkey at the top of the ballot, and the word "Democratic" next to the candidate's name.

Seriously, I know so many people who don't care if the name under the Big "D" is Dancer, Prancer, Clinton or Blitzen. It can be Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Barry Obama or the Dalai Lama.

Well, that sounded good last year, but over the past two months, the actions and words of Hillary Clinton have gone from being merely disappointing to downright disgusting. I guess the debate last week was the final straw. I've watched Senator Clinton and her husband play this game of appealing to the worst side of white people, but last Wednesday, when she hurled the name "Farrakhan" out of nowhere, well that's when the silly season came to an early end for me. She said the "F" word to scare white people, pure and simple. Of course, Obama has no connection to Farrakhan. But, according to Senator Clinton, Obama's pastor does -- AND the "church bulletin" once included a Los Angeles Times op-ed from some guy with Hamas! No, not the church bulletin!

This sleazy attempt to smear Obama was brilliantly explained the following night by Stephen Colbert. He pointed out that if Obama is supported by Ted Kennedy, who is Catholic, and the Catholic Church is led by a Pope who was in the Hitler Youth, that can mean only one thing: OBAMA LOVES HITLER!

Yes, Senator Clinton, that's how you sounded. Like you were nuts. Like you were a bigot stoking the fires of stupidity. How sad that I would ever have to write those words about you. You have devoted your life to good causes and good deeds. And now to throw it all away for an office you can't win unless you smear the black man so much that the superdelegates cry "Uncle (Tom)" and give it all to you.

But that can't happen. You cast your die when you voted to start this bloody war. When you did that you were like Moses who lost it for a moment and, because of that, was prohibited from entering the Promised Land.

How sad for a country that wanted to see the first woman elected to the White House. That day will come -- but it won't be you. We'll have to wait for the current Democratic governor of Kansas to run in 2016 (you read it here first!).

There are those who say Obama isn't ready, or he's voted wrong on this or that. But that's looking at the trees and not the forest. What we are witnessing is not just a candidate but a profound, massive public movement for change. My endorsement is more for Obama The Movement than it is for Obama the candidate.

That is not to take anything away from this exceptional man. But what's going on is bigger than him at this point, and that's a good thing for the country. Because, when he wins in November, that Obama Movement is going to have to stay alert and active. Corporate America is not going to give up their hold on our government just because we say so. President Obama is going to need a nation of millions to stand behind him.

I know some of you will say, 'Mike, what have the Democrats done to deserve our vote?' That's a damn good question. In November of '06, the country loudly sent a message that we wanted the war to end. Yet the Democrats have done nothing. So why should we be so eager to line up happily behind them?

I'll tell you why. Because I can't stand one more friggin' minute of this administration and the permanent, irreversible damage it has done to our people and to this world. I'm almost at the point where I don't care if the Democrats don't have a backbone or a kneebone or a thought in their dizzy little heads. Just as long as their name ain't "Bush" and the word "Republican" is not beside theirs on the ballot, then that's good enough for me.

I, like the majority of Americans, have been pummeled senseless for 8 long years. That's why I will join millions of citizens and stagger into the voting booth come November, like a boxer in the 12th round, all bloodied and bruised with one eye swollen shut, looking for the only thing that matters -- that big "D" on the ballot.

Don't get me wrong. I lost my rose-colored glasses a long time ago.

It's foolish to see the Democrats as anything but a nicer version of a party that exists to do the bidding of the corporate elite in this country. Any endorsement of a Democrat must be done with this acknowledgement and a hope that one day we will have a party that'll represent the people first, and laws that allow that party an equal voice.

Finally, I want to say a word about the basic decency I have seen in Mr. Obama. Mrs. Clinton continues to throw the Rev. Wright up in his face as part of her mission to keep stoking the fears of White America. Every time she does this I shout at the TV, "Say it, Obama! Say that when she and her husband were having marital difficulties regarding Monica Lewinsky, who did she and Bill bring to the White House for 'spiritual counseling?' THE REVEREND JEREMIAH WRIGHT!"

But no, Obama won't throw that at her. It wouldn't be right. It wouldn't be decent. She's been through enough hurt. And so he remains silent and takes the mud she throws in his face.
That's why the crowds who come to see him are so large. That's why he'll take us down a more decent path. That's why I would vote for him if Michigan were allowed to have an election.
But the question I keep hearing is... 'can he win? Can he win in November?' In the distance we hear the siren of the death train called the Straight Talk Express. We know it's possible to hear the words "President McCain" on January 20th. We know there are still many Americans who will never vote for a black man. Hillary knows it, too. She's counting on it.

Pennsylvania, the state that gave birth to this great country, has a chance to set things right. It has not had a moment to shine like this since 1787 when our Constitution was written there. In that Constitution, they wrote that a black man or woman was only "three fifths" human. On Tuesday, the good people of Pennsylvania have a chance for redemption.

Yours,

Michael Moore

MichaelMoore.com

MMFlint@aol.com

Thoughts?

DORA THE EXPLORER

As Thing 2 was waking up from her nap today, this is what I heard coming from her room:

"Mommy, abre the door! Gracias amigos!"



Most parents would be bursting with pride. I however, decided it was time to cut back on the Nickelodeon.

Adios!

RIP OUTLET SHOPPING

Okay, so beware, I am about to let my pessimistic side run wild, so if you are an overly optimistic person, or a new reader, or prefer happy people, just know that I can't help it.

So, last Friday I thought it might be fun to round up the troops and head up to the Tanger Outlets in Park City. I usually love to go up to the outlets to do a little shopping now and again. Who can resist a new running shoe or pair of cheap shorts? I love to get out of the city, and head up the canyon, where the air seems just a bit clearer, and the prices a bit lower. And really, who doesn't love a bargain?

Well, prepare yourself friends, because now is where my lament will begin. As we were perusing the outlets, if I can even call them that anymore, I took one look around and announced: "These Aren't Outlets!" (By the way, no one cared. Not even hubs. He kept right on shopping. ) For Real. Where did all the outlets go?

And then I found myself in a quandary. Remember back in the day when you could head up to Park City and go in a store, and find last season's digg's for half the price? Well, my friends, that just doesn't happen anymore. Most of the stores up there, are just that. Stores. No outlet. No discount. It's like a big strip mall. Yuck! Seriously. There isn't one single store up there that even qualifies as an outlet. And in my book that means clothing from it's mother-store, but deeply discounted. But now, you just have stores that must have their own designers and their own lines. Because it just seems the clothes up there are now either a) not discounted, or b) they are crappy quality. I mean really, an Old Navy outlet? Does it get any more ridiculous?

I mean, I'm not sure really why this bugs me so much. It must be my vain, simple mind. Or maybe it's because I used to LOVE outlet shopping. But whatever the case, now, it's like just another mall. American Eagle, Children's Place, and Gymboree. Ugg. I can get that anywhere. And really, it would be fine, if the stuff was actually deeply discounted. But it's just not. And I can't stand it!

Now, I realize there are much more important things I could be brooding about. Things like global warming, abortion, and for darn sakes this RIDICULOUS war, but I just can't seem to understand where all the outlets have gone. And this upsets me. And no, people aren't dying because of it, but I just can't sleep well anymore knowing that outlets are becoming extinct.

What will I do? Where will I go to find the joy of bargain hunting? Online? Sure, Zappos, overstock, and Ebay have great deals, but there's not the twenty minute getaway, and the air? Not nearly as clear.

So, I guess my only option is to mourn the "outlet". Say good-bye and move on. May the joy of "outlet" shopping forever rest in peace.

MICHELLE TANNER, IS THAT YOU?

Seriously choked on my Corn Chex this morning when I saw this.


Is that a sweat band? Like that people wear at the gym? Well, actually old men with tube socks wear at the gym? Except, wait, is it velvet? A velvet sweat band?

Fancy.


P.S. On a totally serious note . . . is she wearing one shoulder pad? Cause I mean that's bad. Not that she's wearing just one, but no, the fact that shoulderpads could be on their way back in. This scares me. Or wait, what if she isn't wearing a shoulder pad and actually just has one super-tall shoulder? Eww, that's wierd. And even worse than wearing one shoulder pad.

Or that sweatband.


Looking at this picture makes me feel like I need to gas up the delorian and head back to 2008.

GETTING REAL, THE THIRD SHIFT, AND TOXIC SHAME

"Everyone needs a sense of shame, but no one needs to feel ashamed." --Frederick Nietzche

Okay, so a few of my good blogging friends have been posting fantastic fodder lately. And I love it.


My friend Aimee, who is a grad student in marriage and family therapy, just recently did a very poignant, raw, and I think rather gutsy post all about her thoughts on gender equality, socialization of women, and the third shift. You can read her amazing post here.

Then there is my other friend Kristin who just did a little post all about getting real. She discusses the constant pressure people in the blogging world feel to "measure up." And how some bloggers constantly compare themselves to others. But in reality they are just seeing the edited version of others.


I enjoyed both of these posts and commented on them both briefly. But the more I read the comments of others and reflect, I realize that I have many more thoughts on both of these subjects and how they are related and thought it might be nice to do my own little (or not-so-little) post myself.


Okay, first off, Kristin's post immediately caught my attention, because I too, have heard this same thing from some of my own bloggging buddies. The whole attitude that they just hate the comparison and don't feel they can handle the pressure of writing about their lives and how they portray themselves.

And my comment to this is simple. People who blog, rather, people who blog well (and there is a difference) do so because they enjoy it. Put simply folks, you won't see me in any scrapbooking clubs or quilting bees. Why? Because I hate that stuff. And I wouldn't in a million years try to do something that I suck at, then complain that others are better than me. Is that too harsh? Well, it's not that I think I'm fantastic at blogging or anything (cause let's face it, I'm not), but I guess I just really enjoy it. And if I suck, well, too bad. Don't read it. I don't care how many people read my blog, and even though I do have a site meter, I don't measure my worth by it. For darn sakes people, if you find joy in blogging then blog. If not, well, stop. It's not worth the anxiety is it?

The reason I do this, is well, I honestly can't scrapbook. In fact I don't think God gave me a single crafty gene. And as much as my children frustrate me, I really do want to remember these years. In essence it is a way for me to be a virtual scrapbooker. Remember all the fun times with way-too-long descriptions.

And it's funny because with my pessimistic attitude I find that I don't really edit my life all that well. Sure, there are areas of my life I'm not really willing to share, but for the most part, I find that I get the most joy out of this strange sport when I share the good, the bad and the ugly. And although it's not a 100% accurate portrayal of my life, I do find, the more honest I am, the more fun I have. Maybe it's because we (society) like to see how other people live their lives. Hence the "reality" TV craze. Or maybe it's because we all are really just looking for ways that we all connect. Ways that we are the same. Rather than different. Whatever it is, the connection that blogging provides, in my mind, is lovely.

And this leads me into the topic of the Third Shift that Aimee discussed. First off, let me just say that I am totally jealous that she gets to study this stuff. Maybe one day when my kids are old and able to feed and dress themselves well, I too, may venture out into the world of therapy education. I so appreciated all her thoughts on the Third Shift and how we as women often fall victim to this shift in our psyche around age 12 when we start worrying about what others think. Spending too much time worrying about beauty, and our physical appearances. And listening to our negative selves too much.


And well, if you thought you were going to get a zen, grounded, women's-rights type speech here about how well I've done in my life dismissing these thoughts, then you would be sorely mistaken. I hate to admit it, but I too have fallen victim to the Third Shift. It seems, over and over, too many times. I've often heard that once you get into your forties you stop worry about this stuff. And this is one of the reasons I'm looking forward to my forties.


But these thoughts made me think about this awesome book I just read by John Bradshaw titled "Healing The Shame That Binds You." And although it sounds like a snoozer, it actually is really interesting. The book discusses the ways in which we as people go from feeling guilty to shameful. And how some of us can't get past the shame we have felt in our lives and internalize it into toxic shame leading us to act out in addictive and compulsive manners. And even sometimes, develop a totally false self to cover up our shame. Sounds exciting right? But really, I think so many of us out there wallow in self-pity and shame.

Bradshaw says, "In itself, shame is not bad. . . Shame is the emotion that gives us permission to be human. Shame tells us of our limits. Shame keeps us in our human boundaries, letting us know we can and will make mistakes and that we need help. Our shame tells us we are not God. Healthy shame is the psychological foundation of humility. It is the source of spirituality." He goes on, "What I discovered was that shame as a healthy human emotion can be transformed into shame as a state of being. As a state of being shame takes over one's whole identity. To have shame as an identity is to believe that one's being is flawed, that one is defective as a human being. Once shame is transformed into an identity, it becomes toxic and dehumanizing."

So, maybe those of us that have this problem with the Third Shift are just feeling shameful about ourselves. And hopefully it's not toxic in nature, but my instinct is that probably too many people, and especially women, are walking around carrying loads of toxic shame. They feel shameful about everything. Bradshaw talks about the ways in which we hide our toxic shame, ways to uncover it, and later how to recover from it. It has been a most enlightening experience.

Aimee asks on her blog how we balance The Third Shift and how we keep from listening to the negative self talk. Well first, I think we all need to get honest with ourselves and others. And maybe that starts with honesty on our blogs (thanks Kristin), or maybe not. Maybe it means getting honest with a therapist or sponsor. Next, I think we need to spend more time being gentle to ourselves. Loving who we are. Now, let me say, I am so not good at this. But, I wish I was. Bradshaw says, "Giving and receiving unconditional love is the most effective and powerful way to personal wholeness and happiness." And who doesn't want that, eh?


So, I hope that I haven't thoroughly confused you now. If I have, go read Aimee's post and Kristin's post, let it simmer, then let's discuss. Cause, really, it's one of the most fantastic things about blogging. Sharing your thoughts about other's posts. At least it is mine.

Thanks girls for your inspiration! And for those of you still with me, congratulations.