OH NO!

Everyone knows how pro-Obama I was during the election. And this? Well, I don't have words quite yet, but it concerns me. I'm just sayin'. Have a lookie and let me know what you think.

SUNSHINE LOVE

Okay, first off I just need to get something off my chest. Here goes:

I really, really, really sometimes wish I was one of those bloggers who could write short, funny, intriguing posts. Well, that's just not me. And as much as I wish, and hope it was, it's just not. My posts and my writing in general tends to be really wordy. And lengthy. And can seem somewhat like I'm just rambling. Which I guess, I just might be. And well, I'm sorry about that. I wish I could write differently, but I can't. I'm not sure if this is because I talk to two people about superheros and princesses all day, or if I just have a lot bottled up inside me, but either way, I realize it's kind of annoying. I'm working on it. But brace yourself friends, this is gonna be a long one.


This topic, is well, so close to my heart, I just don't even know where to begin. Music. I love it. And I need it daily. Music is such an amazing art form to me. The way people can put their thoughts and words to music has always intrigued me.

I didn't necessarily grow up in a very musical family per say, but there was always music in the home. I mean, my Dad plays the accordion, but I've only heard him play a few times. And my mom doesn't play any instrument, but she can sing nicely. I'm not sure if it's because she didn't really learn to play an instrument or what, but she insisted, or MADE us rather, learn to play the piano. Which, when I was a child, I absolutely HATED. All that darn practicing. Ugg. Couldn't my mother see I would much rather be outside playing kick the can, than counting notes and struggling through arrangements? And don't let me even get started on all the lying I did surrounding that darn piano. I mean, my mom must have known. Was it really possible that every time she went out I did my practising? I can remember fighting with my brothers about it. Who's turn it was to get to say they did their practicing while she was out. Just. So. Wrong. But I loathed it. All that stupid practicing! I finally quit when I was in junior high. I guess she figured since I could play most of the hymns then I was good.

Both my Mom and my Dad loved music and we always had it playing in our house, and in the car. I grew up on James Taylor, Simon & Garfunkel, John Denver and Anne Murray. With two older brothers though, I also grew up on Tupac, Run DMC, and pretty much all the 90's rap that was out there. My oldest brother was known for his extensive CD collection. One of the biggest at his high school. Unfortunately, my room was right above his, so I pretty much lived and breathed rap music. I think this must be why I kinda have this strange love for hip hop and rap, whereas most people I know hate it.

One of the things I just love about music is the way it can serve almost as a backdrop in your life. There are so many different songs that when I hear them, take me right back to a certain time in my life. Even sometimes a specific moment in time.

Take Thugs N' Harmony's wonderful little song Wake Up for instance. My brother Dave, I kid you not, set this CD as his alarm every single morning his entire senior year. Every morning I would wake up to that ridiculous song. "Wake up, Wake up, it's the first of the month." Ugg. I could shoot myself!!

Or how about Blind Melon's It's no rain? This takes me right back to my first real kiss ever. Good old Lee. He loved Blind Melon. And that song was super popular at the time. The summer after 7th grade. Gotta love it. Every time I hear it, I think of him.

Indio Girls? Immediately think of Lake Powell. We would jam to this the whole way down and the entire week we were there.

Or how about Smashing Pumpkin's 1979? One Friday night when I was in high school a bunch of my friends had rented out some rooms downtown at Little America. I don't remember much, if anything about that night, except for that Jeremy Lyman was there. And he had just bought this new car. And by new I mean, new to him. It was some 1970's boat, and he took me and a bunch of my friends on a ride. I have no idea who was there, i just remember sitting in the back seat, with all the windows in the car down, hair blowing in the wind, with the speakers blaring the Pumpkin's 1979. It was then that for some reason Jeremy went the wrong way down a one-way street. We were screaming our heads off at him, because of all the cars coming straight at us. I thought I was going to die. I'm laughing just remembering it. We were so scarred. And all the while Smashing Pumpkins was jamming in the background.

Take Dave Mathews Band. There are a few of their songs that just hold so much emotion for me. They are so dear to me, that I almost don't really even feel comfortable sharing which ones. But they will always mean Hubs to me. Too many lazy days spent sluffing over at his house on the water bed.

And Simon & Garfunkel's I am a rock? This will always mean family to me. It's been a long-standing joke in our family, that although I love music, I'm not so great at hearing the lyrics. And I don't really care. I just sing it like I hear it. So, all growing up when the song says, "I am a rock, I am an island." I thought it said, "I am a rock, I am an awe---some rock!" In fact, I still sing it that way if I hear it come on. Even at my wedding my brothers intentionally put this song on the mix and sang it wrong just for me.


So yeah, music. It really is the backdrop of my life. That's why today, after a specifically intense spinning class full of Lady Gaga and other ass pushing songs, it was a nice reprieve during the cool down to hear a song that I haven't heard in a really long time. And that I absolutely love. And represents and means so much for me. That song?

Here Comes The Sun by the Beatles.

Okay, I guess I need to say something really quick. For those of you who know me well, or are a regular reader know of my absolute LOVE and NEED for the sun. I have self-diagnosed SADD, and just crave the sun. I am that person that has every blind and window wide open. I always think it's funny when I drive down the street and everyone has their blinds and shades pulled in the day. I so just don't get that. In fact I would rather be awakened by the sun than anything else. This is why I love summer. Long days. The sun rises early and sets late. I honestly think there might be some sort of secret chemical in the sun that my body just needs. Like maybe vitamin D. I just need loads of it. And so, I must see it everyday or else I just get sad and depressed. It's very strange and weird, I know, but it's me.


Anyhoo, as I was listening to the wonderfullness that is the song "Here Comes the Sun", it made me think of all the other brilliant tunes out there devoted to the word sun. And well, I thought today, with the officially start of summer, that I might share some of those lovelies. I hope you are having a fabulous day. And that this warm weather is warming your soul like it is mine. It's like I slowly start to come alive as the sun makes it's debut each spring. I literally turn into a different person in the summer. I want to get out of the house. I want to go on walks, go to the pool, go up the canyon to roast mallows and dogs. I want to be out, basking in it's awesomeness. So, here's to you sun!! Welcome home. Welcome home.

Here Comes The Sun - Beatles



That leads me right into:

You are My Sunshine - When I was looking for a video to post with this song, I came upon this one. And I am such sucker for people proclaiming their love through video and music. Enjoy!




Next up: Len, If You Steal My Sunshine. Most of you are probably thinking to yourselves, Who?
Sure, they are a one-hit-wonder, and the video is horribly cheesy, but the song is as catchy as ever, and is in most of mix playlists. I mean, scooters? Really? The option to embed this song has been disabled, so you are gonna have to click here, to listen to it in all it's glory.

Fallen Sunshine by Matt Costa & Jack Johnson






Want to continue in this little fun sunshine roadtrip? Then please check out these:

Walking on Sunshine

Sun is Shining - Bob Marley

Sunshine On My Shoulder - John Denver

Sunshine - Mos Def

Good Day Sunshine - Paul McCartney

Sunshine Of Your Love - Jimi Hendrix

and last but certainly not least, You Are The Sunshine Of My Life - Stevie Wonder


Well, I hope you enjoyed my trip down memory lane. I've loved sharing a little bit of sunshine with you today. Hope you all have a fantastic Memorial Day weekend filled with entirely too much sunshine!

CRAFTY SHMAFTY

Saw this cute flutter top tutorial on Sew Mama Sew! and I think I just might try to make it. Doesn't look too difficult. Plus, the fabric combinations are endless. Oh, just think of the fun. . . .

TUESDAY'S TIP: SUMMER FUN

Well, it's beginning to feel more and more like summer around here. What with the ridiculously hot days, school ending for Thing 1 this week, and swimming lessons starting up, it sure does feel like we are in the swing of things. There are a few things that signify summer to me. The warm summer evenings spent BBQ-ing, Bob's Brain Freezes at least weekly, swimming everyday and a few more that I thought I'd highlight. Check em out if you'd like.


First off:

Starting Monday June 22 and going through August 3 from 6-8 p.m. Red Butte Garden will be having performances, entertainment, crafts and activities. Rates are $24 for 2 adults and 4 kids, regular garden admission rates (if there is fewer of ya), or FREE for those with memberships.

• June 22 - Salt Lake Scots (bagpipers). You know we will definitely be to this one. Just so hubs can say "Piper down" in his best Scottish accent.
• June 29 - Bollywood Dance Club
• July 6 - Ko Ngati Hiona - Maori music & Dance.
• July 13 - Death Cab for Cutie is having a concert. Might be fun to just go and let the kids play and listen to the tunes for free.
• July 20 - Kenshin - Taiko Drums, Japanese. Really excited for this one too.
• July 27 - Eastern Arts - dance & music.
• August 3 - Morning star - Native American dance and Music

I'm really excited for these, and am even more pleased with myself for getting the yearly membership. Can't think of a more fabulous way to spend family night then basking in some enriching music and dance.

Next:

This years farmers market starts June 13th and runs through October 17th. Open 8 a.m.- 1 p.m. We go quite frequently during the summer for fresh organic veggies, and since our kids are early risers, we get there when it opens. It's a lot less crowded which means easier parking and more elbow room.

And last but certainly not least:

Millcreek Movie Nights. The first one is coming up quickly.

• June 5th Kung Fu Panda Canyon Rim Park. Movie starts at dusk. You know we will be rocking this one since this is my very favorite animated movie ever. Robin Hood is a close second, but KFP pulled ahead this past year.
• June 12th Mama Mia Evergreen Park. Again, movie starts at dusk.
  
  

THE BRIGHT SPOT IN AN OTHERWISE CRAPPY DAY

Tonight I can't decide which is funnier. The season finale of SNL with host Will Ferrell, or Hubs trying to tivo through it. Not knowing if it's a real commercial or an SNL short. Nope, went to far, have to go back. Watching real commercials for way longer than necessary cause really, you never know, and watching him get frustrated about it.

Ahhhhh. Good times. Good times.

MY SO-CALLED LIFE

• Okay, first off. There are no pictures to go with this post. I understand if you want to immediately go and hit next blog. I get it. They will probably have pics. I will not. If you decide to stay, don't comment about me not having pics. Just accept it.

• Where was I? Oh yes, My so-called life. Remember that TV show back in the nineties? I loved it. It was only on the air for maybe like half a season, but what a season it was. Actually, to be honest, I don't remember a lot of it. Mostly just coveting Claire Dane's hair and Jared Leto. Not necessarily in that order. But really it was hard not to love Claire's teen angst when I was currently experiencing my own teen angst. I believe I was a sophomore. The only reason I remember this is that there was this girl in my class who loved the show so much that when she heard it was being cancelled she made up a petition to have people sign to save the show. At the time I didn't sign it, cause well, frankly I was a teenager and cared to much about what people thought of me. But I can also remember feeling a kinship with this girl. Someone else who loves the drama of television as much as me. I always have. And ever since reality tv and Tivo, honestly, it's gotten much worse. But this time of the year? The end of season finale time? My love for TV goes to a whole new level. Am I proud of this? No. It just is. Believe me, I've tried to go without TV. But I just can't. So sue me. I figure since I don't watch "live" tv anymore, I'm saving tons of time and since I only watch until after the kids are in bed, that it is sorta somehow justified. The only show I can watch live anymore is The Food Network. More specifically Paula Deen's Home Cooking. Just something about her southern drawl and massive use of heavy cream and butter that just soothes my soul. But alas, I digress. Let's get on to the goods.

• Okey, dokey. Before I begin, I probably should warn you that I'm feeling a bit strange at the moment. Not sure if it's the fever I'm rockin' or the heavy cold meds, but yes, this post will be odd. Just go with it. Let's start with the Biggest Loser. Oh man what a show. I just love it. However I also love to watch it while eating sugary sweet tangy taffy. I just think the taffy makes the show better. I know it's wrong, and I kinda feel guilty when Bob comes on with his little tips about healthy eating. But that is what Tivo is for, right? So, it's no secret that I wanted TARA to win. Really bad. I even wore a "GO TARA" shirt the night of the finale (see I told you I was crazy). But my shirt magic didn't help. That whiny little butt face Helen had to win. Eww. Just saying her name makes me want to vomit. Who sends their fat kid home, so they can stay and get skinny. Boo to you Helen. Boo. Okay, moving along. How fantastic did Mike look? I know I've said before that he doesn't deserve to win, simply cause he kept saying he was going to, but I would like to now retract that statement. Ever since Kris opened my eyes to the fact that heck, this is the first time he's ever been skinny in his whole life and he deserves to be a little cocky, I've agreed. Great job Mike. But the shocker of the finale was definitely Jerry. Who is this guy? Comes to the ranch for one week, faints, goes home and looses like 147 pounds!!! That is insane. I thought it was funny how he kept pumping his fist in the air. And it looked like his dentures were going to fall out at any moment. Congrats Jerry.

• Moving right along. . . LOST. Holy guacamole. My head is still spinning. Let's just take it from the top. Okay so the thing that eerks me the most is we've been hearing about this bloody Jacob for 4 seasons now. And he finally makes an entrance. And a very odd, verry creepy entrance at that. But don't get too attached friends, cause by the end, he is toast. Burnt toast. I did get the feeling though each time he visited one of our beloved losties he almost ushered them to the island. As if it was their destiny. Did you notice that he also touched or passed them each an item? Creepy! Glad to know that Hurley isn't crazy. He is still my fav. Kinda want to read O'Conner's book Everything That Rises Must Converge that Jacob was reading in the ep now. But wait on hold a minute, only the best thing ever also happened in the ep, Rose and Bernard are back!!! Yippy skippy! I'm so glad they are not lost. Just enjoying their little bungalow by the beach. Love how they said, that most people work all their lives for a little shack by the beach. And they have it. Very appropos Rose. Okay who was that guy in the beginning? Wearing all dark? While Jacob was wearing all white. This ep seemed a little "Narnia" influenced if you will.
  Alot of religious mumbo-jumbo underlying this show. And just who in the sam-heck is inside of Locke? Smoke Monster? Ahhh, I must now go and take an advil. My head hurts.

• Next Up? Greys Anatomy. can't say I really love this show. it's just eh for me. But I was kinda sad to see Isobel and George die, although I kinda saw it coming since I heard that they were both being let out of their contracts. This is all I have.

• Just can't wait for the Survivor season finale tonight. I really hope JT wins. They were silly to vote off coach. He was the perfect person to take to the end. On a side note here. I really wish Hubs would try out for Survivor. He would totally win. He is wicked smart, seen every episode of Man Vs. Wild, and ain't too bad on the eyes. ;) His only problem I can foresee is the fact that he doesn't do well without food. Kinda turns into a grump. But then again, who doesn't? Next time you see Hubs, please encourage this. I think it would be fantastic to have him win a million dollars.

• Okay, well I think that is about it for this novel tonight. I am sure there are other shows to blog about, but since I feel like I got run over by a truck I think I will go relax. Oh, and p.s. who gets two flat tires in one day? I did break a mirror last week, and I'm starting to worry that my seven years has decided to start today. I hope to high heaven that your Sabbath is going better than mine. Cheers!

CONFESSIONS OF A FOUR AND A HALF YEAR OLD

Yesterday as we were getting ready for Grandma's graduation and dressing up in our Sunday Best Thing 1 says to me: "Mom, is tomorrow Sunday?

Me: You betcha!

Him: Mom, I have something to tell you. I don't really like Sundays the day very much. I like Sundae's the ice cream a lot better.


Amen brother. Amen.

ART FAIR

So, my very favorite little girls clothing line, Matilda Jane, is having their "Art Fair" clothing sale this weekend and I thought I'd share this little fabulous secret with you, cause frankly you rock. Very rarely does Matilda Jane ever sell their clothes online. Usually you have to buy it at a trunk show. But this weekend (today, tomorrow and till 11 pm EST on Sunday ) you can purchase till your hearts delight. Since it is Art Fair, all sales are final. Be warned, it is the cutest clothing you will ever find for little girls. But the sizes do run a bit big. They do have a bit of boy clothing under the heading "Mighty Acorns". And of course, a few bits and pieces for us ladies.

They will be adding more stuff throughout the weekend, so be sure to check back. I was reading the owners blog today and she said they had 18GB of traffic in the first hour. Yeah, that doesn't mean anything to me either. But she said that they placed 1,100 orders in the first 35 minutes. Crazy right?! I think it's funny, cause most of Thing 2's closet is MJ, and I love it with a passion, but I didn't realize so many other people do as well. I guess since they so rarely sell stuff online, people buy it up in bulk, and then sell the clothing for almost twice as much on ebay. I'll have to remember that when she grows out of her MJ stuff. Yesterday when I was browsing the inventory they had so much stuff. Today after I got back from running errands, they had about a third of what they had this morning. Insane!!

Okay, well that is all for now. Hope you are all having a fabulous weekend!

CONGRATS!

Well, it's official. My Hubs is now a son of a preacher. My beautiful, smart mother-in-law just graduated with her Masters of Divinity. You know what that means. She's officially a preacher. And that makes Hubs, the son of a preacher. So in honor of her graduation, I thought I'd post this little vid. I think it is so groovy. Love the beehive, the vest, the spider lashes and sleeves for days.

Just listening puts me in a smooth late-sixties type of groove. Congrats Marijke! You've worked hard and we look forward to listening to you get your preach on!

Sing it Dusty!

TEN WORDS

Here are ten words that I hope you never have to wake up to. . .

Thing 1 to his sister: "Let's go show mom your new haircut I gave you!!"



Uh, what!?!


Um yeah. I'll be the first to admit that I'm not much of a morning person. But pretty much as soon as I heard those words I was very much awake. I jumped out of bed and went running to see the aftermath. All I could think was my brother is going to kill me. Thing 2 has to walk down the aisle as a flower girl in no less than a month.

So, I'm screaming like a mad woman running out to the kitchen. I think I scared the pants off of Thing 1. He just looked at me like I was slightly crazy (which I might have been).

Me (said very sternly): Where is your sister?

Him: Over there.

Me (again with the stern-ness): Did you cut her hair?

Him: Yes.

Me (blood pressure rising): Where are the scissors?

Him: Right here.

Me: Where?

Him: Right here on my hand. I used my finger scissors.



Holy Crap people. Talk about almost having a heart attack.


Then I preceded to hide all the scissors in the entire house just in case Thing 1 has any more urges to play barber shop.

MOTHERS DAY MIRACLE

Well, I hope you all had a fabulous Mother's Day. I sure did. It all started off very nicely with me being able to sleep in till almost 10:00 a.m. !!! I honestly didn't think it was possible. I heard Hubs get up with the kids around 6:30, smiled to myself cause I knew my stars had all aligned (late church, no plans, etc) and today was the day to sleep. And sleep I did. I honestly don't think I have slept that late in six years!!! I was hoping for about 8 or 9 if I got lucky. And it felt absolutely fantastic to sleep till 10. And honestly I could have kept right on sleeping until noon, but when I cracked one eye open to check the time and saw that it was 9:50, and we were due to be somewhere at 10, I decided to roll out of bed. And the best thing was, Hubs knew we had to be there at ten, but he still just let me sleep, knowing we'd be late. I'm sure he knew I would have given him the death stare if he'd have waken me before I was ready, but also I'm sure he did it out of the kindness of his mother-loving heart. Thanks Hubs!

Then, I meandered slowly downstairs where Hubs was keeping the children hostage so I could sleep and was immediately trampled with hugs and a huge screaming Thing 2. Course she was screaming "Happy Birthday Mommy!" Close. Well, it's all the same in her book I suppose. Then we went upstairs to open only the most fabulous, thoughtful gift ever.

If you know me in real-life you would know that I come up with a million-dollar idea at least on a weekly basis. Honestly. Ask my family. Some of my ideas are just eh. But some, some are money-makers. Like the double-stuffed Oreo. Yeah, that was my idea first. Way before it came out. Told you I was a money-maker. Anyhoo, this latest idea Mar & I have brewin' is sure to be a hit and we've been working really hard on getting our proto-type made and perfected. The only problem with starting a new business is actually doing all the legal government mumbo jumbo. And that is just the part I hate. So, what did my fabulous Hubs do? He went out and started a L.L.C. for me. Complete with a tax ID so I can get my wholesale license and start buying crap for cheap. Seriously? Best gift ever right? I just love how thoughtful he is.

Then we got everyone showered, went to my MIL's house for a little breakfast (which was extra-delish) then headed out to church. (okay, a little side note here. Can I just say how much I love the late church? 1 p.m. rocks. Course I don't have a little one who naps through that time period anymore, so that's not a problem, which definitely helps.) Church was great because I was able to see Thing 1 sing, well, not really sing, more like stand there and look cute while the other primary kids sang. He kept looking over at me and grinning. Cutest thing ever! Then in Sunday school I got to hold a 7 week-old baby. And it was just precious. And I was happy when it was time to give it back. And in RS, I didn't have to conduct, or teach or anything. So that was nice.

Then, after church we went to dinner out at my bro and sis-in-law's house. It was absolutely scrumptious. But the cookies my sis makes for desert? To. Die. For. Her chocolate chip cookies are honestly my favorite things ever. For my birthday that is all I'm asking for. Some of her cookies. Now there is a business I should start. Go Sally!

Then because we stayed a little later than we should have out at my bro's house, the kids were extra-exhausted. It was past bedtime for sure. And just as my cute Thing 1 was nodding off, he says, "Mom, I hope you had a happy Mother's day." And then he fell fast asleep. Really now, what more could a mother ask for?


A perfect day complete with sleep, thoughtful gifts, good food, a little worship, babies, chocolate chip cookies, and my own soundly-sleeping children. Thanks everyone who made my Mom's day the bomb. You rock.

IF I HAD A MILLION DOLLARS. . .

You know the catchy little tune by the Bare Naked Ladies? (One of the best concerts I've ever been too by the way) Well, If I had a million dollars this is what I would request for mothers day.

I mean, just look at it. It is a Genuine Stella scooter. Isn't she purdy? I quite like the blue, or. . .

the avocado green. Either would do. But I have to say I appreciate the white walls that come on the avocado color. But one thing is for certain. I wouldn't be able to just get the Stella alone. Heck no. I would also request the side car as well. See below.

I mean, really, a million dollars. We could splurge on the side car. It is the perfect mothers day gift. Take just the scooter out on your own, and have a little alone time. Or, hook up the sidecar bad boy, helmet up the kiddos, stop for a sugary delight (a.k.a. Slurpee) and head to the park. What could be better?

Oh man. If I had a million dollars.

If you had a million what would you request this mothers day?

P. S. No pressure Hubs, no pressure. The number two item on my mothers day dream list is something that doesn't require even a penny. That would be me sleeping in until like 8 or 9 or 10. Well, really, I'm pretty sure I can't sleep past 8, but it sure will be fun to try. Oh, and if any of you suckers call my house Sunday morning, so help me. . .

Happy Mothers Day Y'all!!!

FOR ALL YOU LOSTIES OUT THERE

This made me chuckle. Out loud. Hope you are all enjoying your weekend!

PURE RANDOMNESS

Okay so here are my random thoughts for this lovely Friday.

• Did you know that No Doubt is getting back together? This is fantastic news. I absolutely loved their album Tragic Kingdom. I love how they incorporate rock and ska. We just don't hear enough Ska anymore. Remember when No Doubt used to be all about the ska? Yes, I do love them. And I'm happy about their reunion.

You can check out their first time performing live together since they have reunited. They did an oldie but a goodie. Spiderwebs. Check it out if you'd like.

• Swine Flu. Also known as the H1V1 flu virus. Okay, where to even begin. First off people, stop freaking out. Remember Sars? Remember West Nile? Yeah, just a distant memory of another media driven, fear based "possible pandemic". Sure people died from both of these viruses, but probably not more than all the people who fall out of their beds at night and die. Really now. Let's not freak out until those tests come back positive.

• Okay, no where in my little rant above did I say to travel to Mexico. Did I? Cause that would be really silly. But my little brother must like silly, cause as of yesterday he traveled right directly into the belly of the beast. Mexico City. Yeah, I always knew he was a bit crazy. Just know this, when he comes back, I'm staying far away, until the incubation period of that crazy flu is long gone. Next. . .
  

• Mar & I have been working on this great idea that is going to make us millionaires! Well, at least hopefully will make us enough money to help start our new business. I just love our idea, and how it is shaping up. As soon as we are a little further along, we will unveil the brilliance right here. Stay tuned.
  
  
  

• Felicity. Okay, if you are a reader you know that I loved that show. It had a great run. And whenever I happen to catch it on cable I like to sit and watch, just cause I loved that whole Ben/Noel/Felicity triangle too much. Well, the other night I had this dream, and I was living in the Loft that Sean rented on the show while they were attending NYU. You know the one. Brick walls, hardwood floors, huge open floor plan, loft bedroom, and the seethru fridge. Complete and total awesomeness. He let Ben live there and his girlfriend? Remember? Yeah, I wish secretly that I could live in a place like that. That was an awesome dream. No, unfortunately Ben wasn't there. Just me and my Hubby and kids. But we loved it there. And the kids thought the see-thru fridge was the bomb.
  
  
  

• Every time my kids sit down to watch Yo Gabba Gabba! I find myself oddly jealous of DJ Lance. This is a bad picture, cause the guy has the skinniest legs ever. I wish I had the skinniest legs ever. His orange jump suit looks fantastic on him.
  
  

• Lost. Okay, where to even begin. How about not with this week's episode but the one from three weeks ago since I forgot to blog about it. Oops. And then they had that lame "special" episode which was just a re-cap ep. Which I loathe. Okay so, stay with me. Three weeks ago's ep. Here goes. These are my random thoughts. Randomness within randomness. Equals awesomeness.

1. Loved that this episode centered around Miles. So creepy that he can talk with dead people. Love that he is the Dharma dude's son. I so called that on the first ep he was on. Booyeah.
2. Loved the interaction between Hurley and Miles. Mostly cause Hurley's my fav, and Miles is just so blunt and dry. Love that.
3. The writers are really stepping it up this season with the one-liners. Best line of the episode comes from Hurley. "The Ewoks suck, dude." Hurley I agree, but Jar Jar Binks was pretty bad too. Also good line from Hurley, "Maybe he will let you hold baby you. . ."
4. The guy that kidnapped Miles was on the plane too that crashed on the island. creeeepy.
5. Is that Jon Gosselin?
6. Still very confused about the dual-existing people on the island. Miles as a baby and an adult. Ben as a kid and as an adult. Very odd. Very kooky. Very Lost.
7. Faraday is BAAAACK!!!!

Okay as for Wednesday's ep:

1. Daniel Faraday is the original time traveler. "Doc" from Back to The Future's got nothin on him.
2. Daniel's mom is crazy Eloise, and his dad is even crazier Widmore. I think we all kinda figured this out. This means Penny and Daniel are at least half siblings. That's cool.
3. Eloise can see the future. This would be fine except for Lost futures are confusing. Can she see the future pasts?
4. Why would Penny leave little Charlie with a nurse? I swear. Will these people never learn?
5. Loved when Daniel was young and his mother told him that he couldn't play the piano anymore cause he had other things to do. And he says, "I'll MAKE time." Very apropos.
6. Okay, can we finally talk about the re-occurring "sucky parents" theme that Lost has going on? John Locke-Dad missing until he used him and them pushed him out a window. Faraday-- Um, we've discussed this one. Eloise is just a bit controlling and bossy. Widmore seems rather snide. Penny--I don't think they have mentioned her mother, but Widmore is definitely creepy and they are no longer speaking with one another. Sun--her dad was a crook and very shady. Sawyer--Dad wasn't around, and mother was killed. Kate-- step dad was abusive. Mother was the key witness in her murder trial. Jack & Claire--Alcoholic father. Miles--thought his dad was dead, now he knows better. Plus his Dad listens to Country music. I could go on and on. I think you get the idea though. All the Losties parental units pretty much are worthless. I wonder how this will play out in the end.
7. Apparently this is no longer the last season. Not sure how I feel about this. Was kinda looking forward to some answers and closure, but I do love Wednesdays purely thanks to Lost, so, hmmm. The jury is still out on this one.
8. Okay, crazy thought here, but what if Desmond and Penny's son Charlie, really is the same "Charlie"? That would be wacko and totally Lost-like.
9. Could Daniel be Jacob?
10. Hmmm. Can we discuss this whole Sawyer/Juliet/Kate/Jack love triangle? It sucks. I hate Sawyer and Juliet together. What a jealous hussy. It's just a nickname. Jack just bugs me now, and Kate, well I just can't get past the scrunchie.
11. Loved the Twitchy nickname. Classic. "Welcome to the party Twitchy, cupcakes are on the counter."
12. Just love the whole ironic twist of the title. Yes they are lost, and frankly, so am I.

Hope you all enjoyed my randomness.

ODE TO THE CUL-DE-SAC

Okay, for those of you who know me, or read this site on a semi-regular basis, you would know that I do what I can for the environment. I recycle. I try to drive less, and walk more. I try to remember my canvas bags when I shop. I try to buy organic when possible. We eat way less meat as a family. And we just generally try to consume less. We really are doing what we can to make less of an impact. But there is one environmentalist movement catching on out there that I just can't seem to get behind. The movement that I'm speaking of is the one that is doing away with the cul-de-sac.

Environmentalists say that cul-de-sacs use up too much land, "create car dependant zones where inhabitants spew four times as many green house gas emissions as downtown dwellers and cause traffic congestion on the limited number of collector roads." Cul-de-sacs also are more crime-ridden, and is more difficult to get firefighting, snow plow and other municipal services into them.

Ruining the environment isn't the only sin of suburbia and cul-de-sacs. According to this article, and others, people who dwell there are fatter, and more out of touch with their neighbors.

Because of these and other reasons, many urban and city planners are doing away with cul-de-sacs all together. And this my good friends, in my eyes, is a total and complete tragedy. And this is why.

You see, I grew up in a cul-de-sac. And it was awesome. In so many ways it defined my childhood. When I was in elementary school my parents moved two blocks. At the time it was completely devastating. Those two blocks meant a totally different world. Different friends, different ward, different life almost. And I suppose it was. But we moved from a street to a circle. And that was the clincher. One of the things that came with this change was night games. What are night games you ask? Well, probably only the most fabulous thing from my childhood. Honestly, I think its an eighties thing. I don't see kids outside doing this like we did.

Pretty much every night after dinner, all the kids in the neighborhood would gather for our nightly ritual. Deciding on a game, and picking teams. Sure, we played pilthy little pathetic night games back in our old house on our old street, but nothing steps up night games like a circle or cul-de-sac where you can gather.

This was serious business, circle night games. The game was chosen. Usually Steal The Flag. And the two home bases were usually my house and the Thompsons. Right across the circle. And almost like a message from heaven, from the Steal the Flag gods, was a line running right down the middle of our circle. When they had made this particular cul-de-sac, the asphalt layers must have laid the asphalt in two different stages, because that line was unmistakable. No need for a silly chalk line. No arguing. We had a built-in line. Prodding, begging and pleading for someone to use it to play Steal The Flag. And oh, did we. And these weren't just little puny night games. No way. Within our circle and a about 4 houses down each street, we could round up about 35 kids. Seriously. Between the Wisans, Thompsons, Watsons, Stakers, Morgans, McConkies, and us it was roughly 35. And there were a few magical summers where even the oldest kids weren't "too-cool" to play, and the youngest just were thrilled to be allowed to play. These were the summers that when I look back seem almost sticky-sweet. Do you know what I mean, you think back and if you close your eyes you can almost smell those warm summer evenings. Full of adrenaline, and competitiveness. The days were long and hot, and the nights were filled with friends and games and fun. I've got a seriously bad case of nostalgia here.

The night always began right after dinner with kids running outside, still chewing up that last piece of supper. Wanting to be sure they made it to the picks. You didn't want to come late and just end up on a team. You wanted to be a part of the origination. Because no matter how many times we played this game, it was always different. Different people, different bases. Different team names. The game changed nightly. This is how the magic began.

We would pretty much all line up on the line. The two oldest would be captains. And as the sun slowly set in the background, teams were chosen. Lines were formed. Sure you might have spent the entire day playing in "her" backyard, but now, she was the enemy. You needed someone fast. You needed someone to man the line. You needed someone to guard the flag. You needed someone to guard the prisoners. And most importantly you needed someone with a plan. When the teams were formed, flags were found, rules were set, and boundaries formed, then the game could begin. Some nights the boundaries were a few houses in each direction. But other nights, say a Friday or a Saturday when we would invite the kids from down the street, and the numbers easily swelled to 50, the boundaries would be half a mile. And that's what made it fun. Rules were simple. You cross the line and someone touches you, you're caught. Sent to the others prison. Prison had to be within 15 feet of the flag. The flag could be hidden, but at least part of it had to be showing/accessible. The rest was fair game. If your numbers got low you could always form a rescue party. Which was good, cause when you are in prison you can search for the flag. Which is why it was always a good idea to have a sacrificial lamb get caught early on, find the flag and then get rescued. At least in theory anyway. If you got to the other side and touched the prisoner you could walk back free.

My favorite nights were the nights I was sent on a mission. Go with this person. Down the gully, around the backside up around Wasatch, then slowly back into the flag yard. And my orders were simple. Forget the prisoners. We can sacrifice them. Don't get caught. And. Go. For. The. Flag.

And we didn't discriminate. Any and all ages were invited. Usually it was a moment or two before someone fell for the old tug-of-war scheme at the line and ended in prison. We even got so technical to say that your toe could cross, but if your entire foot crossed, you were done. Off to prison, where let me just say, the game pretty much sucked. I'd played a bad hand a few times, saw who they let out to guard the line. Kindergartners? Are you serious. Ran the line. Headed in for the flag. Only they left their oldest and biggest to guard the flag. Bad move Aim. Bad move. But I almost had it. Almost isn't good enough in night games. You could almost kick the can, or you could kick it. You could almost steal that flag, or you could find yourself in prison. Almost meant getting caught. Almost meant getting out of the game and sitting on the curb. Almost meant losing.

Usually at some point, when the sun had long-since gone a mom would poke her head out the door and yell, "Five more minutes!" Which we were almost always able to stretch into ten or fifteen, but once the numbers started dwindling, the game was over. Sometimes when it ended in a draw we would pick up right where we left off the next night. And again, magic.

There were days when those of us who fell age-wise right in the middle would try to re-enact Steal the Flag in the middle of the day or Kick the Can or Steal the Shoes, but it was never the same. I'm not sure if it was the heat, or the lack of darkness, but the game was never as good as when it was played at night. It just wasn't the same. I think there just might have been something magical about late summer evenings when I was a kid.

Sure there are other great ways to use a cul-de-sac. Bikes, roller blades, roller skates, and skateboards all are great options, but in my humble opinion, there is no better way to use a cul-de-sac that a good game of Steal the Flag. Of course back then, parents weren't worried about their kids running around in the dark by themselves. Or at least they didn't seem to be. Cause I never saw a parent out watching us. Ever. It was just us kids. Fighting with all the loyalty we could muster for our "team". Trying with all our might to Steal that darn flag.

So, to hear that they are doing away with cul-de-sacs kinda, sorta, breaks my heart a little bit. Makes me sad to think of all the future generations that won't be able to participate in the awesomeness that was night games. And night games were just eh without the circle. It was the circle, my friends that made them awesome.

So, to all my former steal the flag buddies, holla at ya. The Terrace Heights night games were simply put. Magical. Thanks for the memories friends.

THIS ONE IS FOR MY TWO MALE READERS

So, according to this totally reliable (feel the sarcasm) news source, get this, Will Ferrill is set to be the first "guest" on the wildly popular (and also a little fake), Man Vs. Wilde.

This is the most fantastic news I've heard all day for a few reasons:

1. no one, famous or otherwise has ever guest starred with ex-special forces solider and survival expert Bear Grylls. Will Ferrell will be the first to do this. Isn't this amazing?
2. With Will on there hilarity is sure to ensue. I hope somewhere in the hour-long episode he does a Bear Grylls impression. In front of Bear. Cause anyone who really knows me, knows that I do a killer Bear Grylls impression. It really is fantastic. I hope one day you might be privy to the fantastic-ness that is my Bear impression. It's pretty impressive. And if I am ever in the same room as Bear, I am so totally doing an impression of him for him. I am sure I will be the first to ever do this to him, and he won't think i'm insane at all.
3. This just might be every man I know (meaning Hubs) hidden or in Hub's case not-so-hidden dream come true. I think Hubs in fact wishes he were Bear. Hubs has even discussed this with his best friend and they have tried to set up their own Man Vs. Wild type excursion. They are 30. And NOT survival experts. And yes, they know these two things and still want to do it.
4. And really, what red-blooded American male doesn't love Ron Burgundy, I mean, Will Ferrell? Really, it's like two of his favorite worlds colliding magically into one another. Enlightenment is most certainly going to be attainable.
5. Apparently they drink their own urine!!!! And bite into reindeer eyeballs. Um, I thought reindeer lived in the North Pole? Is this even possible? Now, because of this information I'm not so sure I want to watch. However, I'm sure after hearing this particular info Hubs will want to watch and set the Tivo.

Okay, so if this information doesn't get you I don't know what will. Man Vs. Wild airs on The Discovery Channel. This particular episode will air in early June. Set or don't set your Tivos now.

To my two male readers out there. You. Are. Welcome!

FREE EARTH DAY GIFT. . . CAUSE I LOVE YOU

HAPPY EARTH DAY!

Because I love you all so much, and I also love the earth, I have a FREE gift just for you. If you click here you can sign up for a rebate coupon for a FREE roll of Reynolds Wrap 100% recycled aluminum foil. But don't wait. The offer is good only today, Wednesday April 22 in celebration of Earth Day!

Hey, did I mention it is FREE?

LOVE STORY MEETS VIVA LA VIDA

A little Love Story (Taylor Swift) meets Viva La Vida (Coldplay) arranged and played by Jon Schmidt. I suggest that you push play, pull up another window/browser/tab and go about your Internet business while enjoying this little ditty. It's long but absolutely lovely. It also makes for lovely music while you clean out your fridge. Go me. Hope all you in slut are enjoying this fantastic weather. Now get off the Internet and go outside already!

Big props to Bishop Cope for the you tube clip tip today!

If you are interested in downloading the song for .99 go here to get it!

EXCITED DOESN'T EVEN BEGIN

to describe my feelings about being able to see this tonight. I am absolutely thrilled. My Dad got me these awesome tickets for my Birthday last year. I have been patiently awaiting this night now for six full months. My ENTIRE (minus the Jersey crew) family is going to be attending so it should be a fantastic evening. Happy Birthday to me!

LETS TALK LOST

Okey dokey folks. Hold on to your hats. This is your spoiler alert. If you haven't watched last weeks episode then frankly, I feel sorry for you, but you also better stop reading any further, cause I am about to get Lost Crazy on ya.

Okay, this episode needs a snazzy name, like um, how about. . . SMOKE MONSTER. dun, dun, dun.

No, really though. Isn't Lost just completely whacked. I thought this episode was gonna be one of those episodes where they answer a bunch of questions that we've had for 4 seasons now when they answered one in the first five minutes. You know the question. How in the Sam heck did Alex come to be with Ben? Did Russo and Ben you know, do it? Or did she loose her when she went crazy? Or did he steal it? Bingo! Bad boy Ben just up and stole that baby, and brought Ethan with him. Insane!

And well, that was about the only thing they cleared up the whole episode.

Seriously.

So, did anyone else think it was hilarious that this "smoke monster" that was so important enough that it could judge Ben pretty much was summoned by flushing the toilet? Really now. Drain a stanky old water hole and up comes the holy, revered, all-knowing smoke monster? Please. And all I could think was, "What, no smoke monster flash back?" or even a flash-forward? Slackers.

Okay here are a few points I would like to discuss or rather would like the writers to work on answering for me in the next few episodes (yeah right).

• Does Richard Alperts eyeliner have any connection to all of the Egyptian crap on the show?
• Ilana. Who does this chick think she is? Asking questions about "Who lies in the shadow of the statue?" Is this supposed to be some kind of code question? Does she work for Widmore? And if this is the statue she is referring to:
  

I'd say the answer should be: toejam.

• Is anyone else enjoying the new Locke and his one-liners? I am enjoying how his calmn-ess and confidence is bugging Ben. Really, I enjoy anyone who can annoy that man. Go Desmond for punching him in the face. Brilliance.
• I still want a Richard Alpert episode.
• Where exactly are Rose & Bernard?

Okay, that's about all I've got for last weeks episode. Even though this show is completely kooksville I love it.

THING 1 GROWS UP OVERNIGHT

Yesterday marked a HUGE MILESTONE here at our house. And yes, I realize this is a silly thing to blog about, but I wanted it recorded for him. So he could know the day, and read about it, and know just exactly how I felt.

Yesterday started off like any other. Got up, got the kids breakfast, asked them to get dressed, did Thing 2's hair, and asked Thing 1 to go and get his hearing aids so I could put them in.

Only. . . he came out with them and said, "I want to put them in." "Sure." I said, thinking he wouldn't be able to, cause they are super teeny and well, it's hard even for me to get them in, and I can see what I'm doing. But well, he insisted. So, I told him to give it a try. And for the first time EVER. . .

drumroll . . .

THING 2 PUT IN HIS OWN HEARING AIDS!!!!!!

I can not even express to you the complete awesomeness of this. You really have no idea. This is such a huge thing. Either I or Hubs have been putting his hearing aids on for his entire life. Every morning. And when he was napping, again, after he woke up. That equals somewhere right around 2,500 times I've put those darn things in! Not to mention the first 2 weeks he had them, and I wanted to cry every minute cause he wouldn't keep them in. I was literally putting them in every 5 minutes. I remember the audiologist telling me. Five minutes. Shoot for five minutes. Now, he leaves them in all day, and even asks for them if we forget. But putting them in all by himself? I really often wondered if and when this day would ever come. And it has. And it makes me kind of teary. I mean, it's been the thing I do each morning. Clean em, check em, put em on. My little bonding time with Thing 1. We usually never talk about hearing aids, but well, he sits completely still for maybe 2 minutes while I do my thing. And he talks. About all sorts of things. Usually super-hero related, but the thing is he sits. Still. And just talks. But this morning? He came out with them on! And you shoulda seen his face! He was so proud of himself. Such a big guy now. Unbelievable. My little guy is growing up. And as absolutely fantastic as this is, I kinda want to cry a little. Never again will he ask me to put his hearing aids in.

But in life, like any other milestone, it's a good thing. I'm really, really, happy for him. Even if I do feel like crying. Well done Thing 1! Well Done!

CONFESSIONS OF A MOTHER vol.1

New Naptime Series I'm starting up. We'll see how long this one lasts. . . .

Confession #1:

Storytime is easily one of my favorite times of the day. The kids sit still. It's quiet. And we all get to escape to a faraway place.

However, I must confess, that often times, well, really, mostly every night, when I'm just plain exhausted and ready for the day to be done, and we are all jammied up and reading the bedtime book. . .

and the story just seems to keep going and going and going, sometimes I well, skip pages. Most nights I'm happy with this decision. Especially if the story involves Disney princesses or Dumbo.

HAPPY EASTER WEEKEND!

Happy Easter y'all! I hope your weekend is filled with all things Easter-y! We will be egg-hunting our hearts out, dying eggs (for the first time with the kids! This should be an adventure.) like crazy, and brunching with the best of 'em.



While we are talking Easter. I'd like to give a little shout out for Christ. I'm grateful for his life and the perfect example he lived. I'm also often in awe of his death and the entire complexity, sacrifice and pure love of that event. And then there is the resurrection. For behind that big bunny, those delicious malted eggs, and a jelly bean or two, lies the real reason we celebrate this holiday. The resurrection of life, and the magnificent, often overlooked miracle of giving us the ability to be free from sin. For this, I am ever and daily grateful.

Sorry to get all church-y on ya. Here is my favorite Easter Hymn I'm hoping I get to rock out to and sing on Sunday.

He Is Risen!

With dignity

1. He is risen! He is risen!Tell it out with joyful voice.He has burst his three days’ prison;Let the whole wide earth rejoice.Death is conquered; man is free.Christ has won the victory.

2. Come with high and holy hymning;Chant our Lord’s triumphant lay.Not one dark some cloud is dimming Yonder glorious morning ray,Breaking o’er the purple east,Symbol of our Easter feast.

3. He is risen! He is risen!He hath opened heaven’s gate.We are free from sin’s dark prison,Risen to a holier state.And a brighter Easter beam On our longing eyes shall stream.

BECAUSE I LOVE YOU. . .

Okay, some info for my fellow LOSTIES out there. I feel it's my civic duty to inform you that tonight's episode will run from 8:00 p.m.-9:02 p.m. This info comes via the producers. And well, we all know there is NOTHING worse than missing the last two cliffhanger moments of LOST. Missing those last two minutes I've learned, can put you completely behind. And make you even more LOST than ever. Sometimes by thirty years. Adjust your tivos now.

You. Are. Welcome.

THOSE FOUR DREADED WORDS. . .

So, I'm not exactly sure when this happened, but sometime between the time I was in my early twenties with not a single real responsibility I could spit at, and well, now, I'm pretty sure that I've turned into:

A WALKING, BREATHING, LIVING

POST-IT NOTE.

I mean really. It's absolutely amazing the amount of information I must remember on a daily basis. Sometimes I often think to myself how I spent so many years of my life not-remembering things. For instance:

Remember to put the milk away. Yes. I actually have to remind myself to do this.

Remember the wipes. Seriously. Take my advice on this one. DON'T EVER LEAVE HOME WITH OUT THEM. Three words friends. Green flowing buggers. Just remember the wipes already.

Remember to pick up child from preschool.

Remember to put batteries in the hearing aids.

Remember to put hearing aids on child.

Remember the quiet bag at church. Another duzy. Just don't forget the bag people.

Remember to floss.

Remember to take your vitamins.

Remember to tivo.

Remember to be positive.

Remember to incorporate vegetables if at all possible into Thing 1's diet. Even if you have to sneak.

Remember to pay the bills.

Remember to do the laundry. Really though, how could I forget?

Remember to set the alarm. Remember to ask Hubs if he set the alarm.

Remember to water the one living plant in the house before it dies too.

Remember to say please.

Remember to say Thank you.

Remember to be positive when reminding Thing 1 for the thousandth time to flush.

Remember to put on a bra. Yes this has actually happened.

Remember to put on shoes. Again, yes.

Remember to put on pants. Just kidding.

Remember to put pants on Thing 2. This one did happen.

Remember to keep in touch with family.

Remember to reply to those e-mails.

Remember to repent.

Remember it's my month to conduct.

Remember to bring dinner to so-and-so.

Remember it's playgroup this week at my house.

Remember, remember, remember.

I mean how exactly did this happen? My one and only theory? Kids? Wrong. Marriage. BINGO!

Now, don't get me wrong. I love my dear husband as much as the next lady, but I swear it all began pretty much the day we moved in together. And somehow it stuck. *Yes, that was supposed to be funny.* And if I try to pinpoint the exact moment in time, I'm pretty sure that I can.

It all began one beautiful sunny day about a week after we'd been home from our honeymoon and all settled in to our 350 square foot apartment. Somehow we'd deemed it Hubs job to clean the bathroom. Well, really now, that was ALL he had to clean. I'd do the other 345 square feet, if he'd just do that five. And so there we were. A week into our bliss, only our bathroom wasn't so blissful anymore. It was beginning to accumulate hair and just mess. And being that our bathroom was in, yes IN, our kitchen I thought that it was pretty gross to at least not keep it fairly clean. I mean really, there wasn't even a sink in there! So, he had to clean the shower and the toilet. That's it! Honestly. Okay, were was I?

Oh yes, that fine sunny day. I asked hubs ever so politely if he'd had a chance to clean the bathroom yet. Or did he have a plan to do so? Really, just as sweet as sugar and soft as butter. No nagging or blunt-ness. Just lovingly pondering. Like you do when you are a newlywed and don't know any better. And you could be an angel on a cloud asking someone if they'd like any philly cream cheese cake bites. But the words that came out of that man's mouth have forever baffled me. I still to this day can not get over it. He said: (and I quote)

"Will you remind me?"

"Um, What? Remind you to clean the bathroom? What do you mean? I kinda figured since we were having this little convo that this could be your reminder."

"No" he says, "I mean will you remind me when it needs to be clean?"

Again. Baffled. Trying my hardest to remain newlywed-like. "I don't get it."

"Will you just tell me when it needs to be cleaned?"

"You can't tell?"

"Well no."

Again, stunned silence. This is something I wasn't expecting. I mean sure, I was expecting tiffs over the remote, and struggles for the covers, but knowing when a bathroom needs cleaning? Un-be-lieve-able! Right?! Then he goes on. . .

"Just tell me. Just remind me."

And this is the conversation that has literally lasted almost 8 years. I just don't understand. How do you not know when a bathroom is dirty? I don't need to remind you. The bathroom will! Your eyes will! Sheesh.

But as the years have gone on we've found a way around this little argument. Her name is Emma. And I can honestly say, I might love her more than Hubs. Kidding. Kidding. Never, but close. She can clean a bathroom like a champ. But this is beside the point.

Even though we no longer argue about the bathroom's cleanliness, I can honestly say I get those dreaded 4 words "WILL YOU REMIND ME." at least on a daily basis.

And I sometimes just don't get it. How can I remember to do that entire fascinating list above every day, but Hubs has the audacity to ask me to send him a reminder e-mail in the morning to e-mail me. What? Seriously? Is that the rest of my life? Human Post-it note?

Well, if this is what I'm going to be seen as, I'd like to think of myself as the the hot pink ones. Cause that's kinda fun. Normal size, nothing fancy. Unlined--lined ones are much too boring. And if it's not too much to ask maybe the pop-up ones? You know the kind. The ones that accordion out? They are kinda snazzy don't ya think? And fun. And probably remind like a jem. None of that boring old yellow one side sticky for me. Lame-o.

Heck no. I've decided those four words like em' or not, I'm pretty sure they are here to stay. Not sure if it's Hubs specifically that thinks he's married a human post-it note, or the general male population (I'd like to please think I'm not the only one), but I've decided something tonight while laying in bed fulfilling my duty of human post-it note. It's really not that bad. And well, now, honestly, it makes me kinda laugh. The thing that man asks me to remind him! And truthfully, I like that someone wants me around enough to tell him crap to do. Sort of like having another child, but funnier and stranger. And well I guess the bottom line of this lame little post is that I love him. All of him. Even if he does see me as an extra large life-size post-it note.

RED BUTTE GARDEN

So, I'm not sure if it's because it's Spring Break and I'm getting a little taste of what this summer is going to be like without preschool, or because Summer is finally within earshot, but I'm gearing up for things to keep the kids busy. At the very end of summer last year I met a friend up at Red Butte Garden for a nice afternoon lunch picnic and let the kids run around. And ya know what? It was an absolute blast! My kids enjoyed it so much. The mazes, ponds, water features, huge sandbox, and ride-able lizards were all a hit. Not to mention all the lush gardens and flowers.

So, I decided to splurge and get the circle of friends membership for the year for $55. It gets me in and 3 of my buddies. That means I can take hubby and the two rascals, or me, my two kids and YOU! That's right. For the whole year I can get out of the house and let the kids run wild somewhere else. Right now they are having their spring bulb festival, so I think I'm going to head up there one day this week and enjoy all the wonderful bulbs. I can't wait!

I'm really looking forward to having another place to take the kids besides the pool, park and the zoo this summer. So, if anyone is interested in picking a family pass up for themselves too, I wouldn't pass up the company! Or, if it's just you and your kids come along and enjoy a little free outing (at least for one of you) on me. You can look into more info here.

HOLY SHOMLY SHE'S THREE

So in preparation for Thing 2's third birthday today, last night I headed out to my least favorite place on earth. The toy store. Seriously I cannot stand that place. It drives me bonkers. And since everyone knows that God skipped me when he was handing out the patience gene, let's just say I avoid it at all costs. Especially if I have to two kids in tow. But since the only time I could get out was after the kids had gone to bed last night, it really wasn't so bad. It wasn't until Hubs called me at 8:00pm asking how much longer was I planning on being that I realized that life had seriously changed. I had just spent my Friday night at the toy store. By. My. Self. Sweet. But really, I had the funnest time. I got totally and completely mesmerized by all the toys. It was awesome. And when I got to the checkout line I realized that pretty much I'd gotten her all the cool toys I never got as a kid. And you know what? Every single one has been a hit. I tried to steer clear of the pink aisles (we have enough of that around here-barf!) and spent most of my time in the learning toy area. Here are a few of the gems I picked up.

My first 80's throwback toy pickup was this little beauty. You might not recognize it because of the awesome cube shape (allowing multiple people to play--brilliant!) but yes in deedy that is a LITE BRITE.

Growing up my friend Wendy had one of these and we literally went through pages and pages of Lite Brite designs. This has provided at least a few hours of entertainment today. Totally worth every single precious penny.


This next 80's throwback toy I HAD to buy for her the minute I saw it. I enjoyed many a SNOOPY SNOW CONE growing up. We never had one at our house, but I had a few friends who did. I was super jealous. But now I don't ever need to feel jealous again! I can have a snoopy snow cone any time I want. I am also hoping this might help move along the broken ice-maker-machine problem we are currently experiencing at our house. Hint. Hint.

And last but not least CHUTES & LADDERS. I spent many a day as a tyke enjoying this game. And since my kids are always begging me to play games, (and really how many times can you play Candyland and Elefun?) I decided this would be a good one to add to our collection.

I also got her a a doctor kit (she is a little shot happy if you ask me) and a hello kitty bingo game, as well as 3 Fancy Nancy books. She has been loving them all. Oh, and I can't forget the gigantic pink and purple balloon bouquet. The shrieking that came out of that girls mouth at the sight of those balloons was unbelievable. Holy cow, where did she get that kind of volumeage? I was able to catch some video, and I will try to post it over at the family blog. It's a bit long, so I'm not promising anything, but I'll do what I can.

I just love that little girl. We had an absolute BLAST today! She is a complete joy, and I am so glad she is mine. I caught her singing out loud twice, "I am three, I am three. Almost three and a half." Oh man, life sure does pass by quick. Wasn't it just yesterday I was begging the doctor to get her 10 pound body out of my uterus before I hurt him?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY THING 2!

TV ROUNDUP

Okay, so I have been wanting to blog TV for a while now, but just haven't found the time, and then the posts started piling up, so instead of little individual posts on each show you are getting the prime time smorgasbord with a little sprinkling of other stuff. Prepare yourselves. It is kinda long, and kinda awesome.

• REAL WORLD BROOKLYN

Um, yes I'm almost thirty, and yes I still watch MTV. Don't hate on it. You know you watch it too, only you probably watch the Hills. Ewww. Anyhoo, I've gone over this a million times, so I'll give you the short version. MTV was banned in our house. Now that I own my own home, and the TV the ban has been lifted. Because I was mentally scarred from the ban, I'm sure I will watch MTV into my nineties. Don't hate. Anyhoo, moving along. This season MTV brang the heat. I have to be honest and say I really loved the first couple of seasons, and even up into the Hawaii cast, but once they filmed in Las Vegas unfortunately RW took a turn for the worse and it was alot of booze, and clubbing and sex. But this season they did the unthinkable. They had 8 roomies! I know right? Stop the presses. And they didn't give them a job, and I think they only showed them clubbing/drinking in ONE episode. They had a really good group of people including a transgendered gal, an Iraqi vet, two kids from Salt Lake and a Mormon. I mean come on. How could I NOT watch? Turned out to be a pretty grand season. But the reason for this long mumbo jumbo is to tell you the greatest news. In the first episode Baya & Ryan (seen above) flirt. But since Ryan has a girlfriend they really never pursued the relationship further than friends which I loved. Then on Wednesday during the reunion special they announced that Ryan had broke it off with Belle and was now dating Baya!!!! I was so excited! I mean, Tom Cruise jumping on Oprah's couch excited. And I'm all excited to tell Hubs, and he just rolls his eyes. So, I had to tell someone. And lucky for you, it's you. I hope they stay together through his second Iraq deployment, then get married and have lots of mini Baya and Ryans. Yes. I need to get a life.

• Moving right along. . . that brings me to LOST.

My brain hurts. Does anyone elses? Oh how I have missed blogging about this show. I stopped because it was all so confusing, but I just had so many thoughts about this episode I just had to share.

1. Okay first off, the picture. How great was that conversation between Hurley and Miles? Hurley throwing Back to the Future references out there was awesome. Hurley is by far my favorite character on LOST. My reaction to the conversation? I think Hurley said it best, "That was really confusing." No crap dude!
2. Do the writers have any idea what in the sam heck is going on? Or are they just trying to confuse us all? I'm kinda convinced that the show is going to end in one of two ways. 1-after all the time travel the show ends with flight 815 crashing back into the island exactly the way it all began. *Cue sappy music*Showing that you can't change the past. Or 2-It will show them all boarding flight 815 again, except this time since they did all the stuff they did, the plane will land in LA just as it once should have. Either way, I'm kinda looking forward to my head not hurting so much on Wednesday nights. But I still say hands down, LOST is the best show on TV right now.
3. What in the crap? Why was Kate wearing a scrunchie? She would never do that. And she bugged me this episode. I wanted to slap her. Not that I condone violence in the least. But why is she helping Ben?
4. Jack is just plain annoying this season.
5. I love Sawyer's daughter's name. Clementine. So cute.
6. I've decided none of these people were taught very good communication skills. The thing that bugs me the most about this show, (which is probably why I love it) is why don't they ask more questions? I swear those people just like to be confused. You got Locke in your face? Ask him some questions. Chatting in a crazy room with Elly? Ask some questions people!
7. Bring back Faraday!
8. One final note, I want, er actually am craving a Richard Episode. Pretty please?

• This is not in any way shape or form TV related, but I think I have a girl crush on Rachel McAdams.

• BIGGEST LOSER

Okay, I am so loving this show. So inspirational! And Tara? That chick is amazing? I am so impressed. 100 pounds. Incredible! And those two Tongan cousins? Hysterical. Especially ( I think his name is Philip) the one with the fro and the crazy large mouth? He is funny.

• JOHN & KATE PLUS 8

Um, did she really get TWO!!!! puppies when she has sextuplets and twins? No more sympathy for that lady. If she goes insane I won't feel one bit bad. Stop adding to the chaos already! And not letting her kids name the puppies? Two words. Control. Freak.

• AMERICA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS

Don't worry, you didn't accidentally click over to someone elses blog. This is still Naptime and yes this show is in fact still on tv. I miss Bob Sagget. NOT! Just thought I'd bring the 90's back for a sec. So, one Sunday as I was perusing the channels, this show was on, and I stopped because, well because, I'm a sucker for silly humor. I mean how can you not laugh at people falling down? Am I too easily amused? Well, my kids were DYING. Laughing hysterically. It was so funny. I was laughing at them, laughing at the tv. It was awesome. My side hurt. I love when my side hurts. So, now it's on our TV schedule. And I'm telling you. And I'm not embarrassed. Cause my kids love "The funny show". And so will yours. As long as you don't mind them watching people get kicked in the balls. Check out a funny clip or two below.

http://abc.go.com/primetime/afv/index?pn=player&itemId=364210

• And I did save the very best for last. Why? Cause last's the best of all the gang silly. And because the most awesomest thing ever was on today. JACK BLACK WAS ON YO GABBA GABBA! I (I mean my kids) have been looking forward to this all week. And it did NOT disappoint. Hilarity ensued. Check it out for yourself. "There is no charge for awesome-ness or attractive-ness." -Jack Black as Kung Fu Panda.