MY DAUGHTER THE KLEPTO

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

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

Classic. Oh the irony.

SO MUCH BEAUTY IN THE WORLD

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

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

Happy Spring Everyone! It's finally here!

A LITTLE COUPON LOVE

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


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

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

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

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

15% off P.F Changs today only.

Enjoy!

LOST THOUGHTS

SPOILER ALERT FOR LOST AIRING 4/13

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

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

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

GLEE RETURNS. . . FINALLY!

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

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

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

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

LOST RECAP

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

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

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

BECAUSE I CAN

Dear Former Facebook "Friend",

Just so we are clear.

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

Cheers,

Amy

8 ESSENTIALS FOR A NEWBORN

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

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

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

Anything you seasoned moms would add to the list?

SMATTERING OF THOUGHTS

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

CLOTH DIAPERING

I have a confession to make.

I used disposable diapers for my first two children.

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

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

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

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


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

LOST RECAP -- AND THE QUOTE YOU PROBABLY MISSED

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

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

On Island:

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

Off The Island:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

IS THIS HELL?

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

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

ON THE ISLAND:

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

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

RICHARD'S PAST:

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

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

OFFICER SAWYER?

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

FLASH SIDEWAYS:

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

ISLAND THOUGHTS:

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

LOST IS AN EXTRA SIX MINUTES LONG TONIGHT

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


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

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

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

LIFE IS GOOD

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

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

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

DR. LINUS?

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

Okay dudes, lets talk LOST.

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

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

FLASH SIDEWAYS THOUGHTS

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

ON THE ISLAND ISSUES

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

OTHER THOUGHTS

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

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

ITCHING FOR RELIEF

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

My skin thanks you.

WOW. LOOK AT ME POSTING AGAIN

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

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

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

A REALIZATION ABOUT LOST

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

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

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

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

LET'S TALK LOST

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

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

MATERIAL GIRLS REVIEW

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

SPORADIC SMATTERING OF THOUGHTS

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

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