Sticks and Stones

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion...but that doesn't mean it always has to be said. (Dear friends, please don't take this personally, it's not you.) I'm talking about facebook and pinterest comments. They are my two most viewed websites but at the moment I'm feeling yucky about one of them. I really do not like confrentation. I think if I took debate class I would end up having an anxiety attack on day one. So even though things I read have nothing to do with me it still upsets me. Some people have some very opinionated friends on pinterest. Just reading the comments some people put make me mad. I wouldn't comment things like that on my friends pins. I care about people's feelings. Probably too much at times but I don't know too many people that would say I hurt their feelings by something I said. Perhaps part of it is the artist in me, as well. In art everyone has their own interpretations of things and own ideas and tastes. Just because I don't like it doesn't mean it is wrong. And I know my feelings have been hurt by someone saying something bad about my artwork. So I think if someone pins something they think is interesting and you aren't a fan keep your fingers off the keyboard. Don't say anything. My feelings can be hurt easily and I tend to take critisism very seriously. I am a people pleaser. I don't think it is bad to assume everyone else could be like this. And since I do, I watch what I say in order to not hurt them. No one likes to be told they are wrong or stupid. If you feel it absolutely necissary to say something go easy on them. If they don't get it after that then it might be ok to just tell them exactly how you feel.
This may seem like a weird blog. Just abother venting session, and it is. My anxiety is high lately and I've found it just makes it easier to upset me. Why can't everyone just get along? Why do certain people have to disagree with everything I say lately? I think some good advice to end this with would be the words of Thumper on Bambi, "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all."

It's The Difference That Makes It

No, I'm not perfect or a genius but sometimes I think I should have been an English major. Lately, it has been getting harder and harder to keep from correcting people on Facebook. There IS a difference between certain words and it looks ridiculous to use the wrong word. For example, there was a sign on the road that said, "Road work TELL Sunday". Tell Sunday? What are you going to tell Sunday and how does that have anything to do with road work? How embarrassing. Then there is a comment on Facebook: I've been here sense noon! Sense noon, huh? What do you sense about it? And the best one: I love you to. You love me to where? I just love how innocent people are when they either can't spell the correct one, really don't know the difference, or just don't care. It's just too bad it makes them look silly.

Stolen Words

I worry, I wonder all the time, why worry?
It's killing me, forget about it
I whisper, remember what she did, don't miss her
Set me free, she won't allow it
Angry and gone
And the list goes on and on
I just want to be ok, be ok, be ok
I just want to feel today, feel today, feel today
I just want to feel something today
Open me up and you will see
I'm a gallery of broken hearts
I'm beyond repair, let me be
And give me backmy broken parts
I just want to know today, know today, know today
I just want to know something today
I just want to know today, know today, know today
Know that maybe I will be ok
Just give me back my pieces
Just give them back to me please
Just give me back my pieces
And let me hold my broken parts
You keep crying, crying, crying
Till you cannot see at all
You keep crying, crying, crying
Till you cannot breathe at all
What do you do when you’re alone?
What do you do when no one’s home?
What do you do when you’re alone?
Out of control,
Now on your own
Never waking up
The alarm is broken
Running in a dream
and it’s like slow motion
Alone
Is there anyone out there?
Is there anyone now?
All I needare the details
Just to find a way out
You can’t break away what you cannot change
You can’t break away
You can’t break away what you cannot change
You can’t break away

I am Me

Sometimes it is hard to not compare yourself to the people around you and the people you grew up with. It's really easy to be negative and most people compare others at their best with you are your worst. I was just reading some blogs and feeling really depressed because they were doing things I always wanted to do but didn't, or they have things I always wanted. So this blog is a reminder to me that just because life isn't how I pictured it doesn't mean it's bad. Some people have careers, even the careers I always thought I would have at this age. But I have Kyler. I am a mom and I love it. Some mom's have clean houses. I have a job, and not a lot of energy. I love my job and love helping support my family. Some mom's have their family on good schedules. I have a wonderful husband who not only supports our family but also cooks dinner. Which means we go by his schedule, which varies depending on the day. I don't have to have the picture perfect life or life I always pictured to be happy about how my life is. The funny thing about this is realizing I was picturing my life all wrong. 48 hour days, at least. Going to work, cleaning the house, making dinner, scriptures and prayers, bath time and bed by 830 so I can still have time to talk to my husband before getting 8 full hours of sleep so I could wake up in time to make my families breakfast and lunch, get everyone all perfect and ready and go to work again. YEAH RIGHT!! So I didn't go back to school? I married a wonderful man and started my family. So my baby doesn't have a perfect schedule and all the extra stuff I thought i'd do with my kids. But he is happy and healthy and will always have my love. Life is never how We plan it to be. Live for today, you never know what tomorrow brings.

Fix You

When you try your best, but you don't succeed
When you get what you want, but not what you need
When you feel so tired, but you can't sleep
Stuck in reverse
And the tears come streaming down your face
When you lose something you can't replace
When you love someone, but it goes to waste
Could it be worse?
Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you
And high up above or down below
When you're too in love to let it go
But if you never try you'll never know
Just what you're worth
Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you
Tears stream down on your face
When you lose something you cannot replace
Tears stream down on your face
And I...
Tears stream down on your face
I promise you I will learn from my mistakes
Tears stream down on your face
And I...
Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you

Under Pressure

Pressure pushing down on me Pressing down on you no man ask for
Under pressure -that burns a building down
Splits a family in two
Puts people on streets
-that's o.k.
It's the terror of knowing
What the world is about Watching some good friends Screaming 'Let me out'
Pray tomorrow -gets me higher
Pressure on people -people on streets
O.k. Chippin' around -kick my brains around the
These are the days it never rains but it pours
People on streets
People on streets
It's the terror of knowing
What this world is about Watching some good friends Screaming 'Let me out'
Pray tomorrow -gets me higher high high
Pressure on people -people on streets
Turned away from it all like a blind man
Sat on a fence but it don't work
Keep coming up with love but it's so slashed and torn
Why -why -why ?
Love love love love love Insanity laughs under pressure we're crack
Can't we give ourselves one more chance
Why can't we give love that one more chance
Why can't we give love give love give love
'Cause love's such an old fashioned word
And love dares you to care for The people on the edge of the night
And loves dares you to change our way of
Caring about ourselves
This is our last dance
This is our last dance
This is ourselves
Under pressure
Under pressure
Pressure

No one ever knows what anyone is thinking, going through, dealing with, feeling or what pressure they are under. There are too many variables. As humans we keep so much inside. Hiding it from the people we see and talk to, hiding it from our closest friends, and even hiding it from ourselves. There is always an inner part of us that we wish we could change, get rid of, cure.
We all have to learn how to live with ourselves. We need to remember we all have something we are dealing with, some better than others. We all put on our happy faces in the darkest days. And it is easier for some to do than for others.

Vent...vent...vent....

I WAS going to put a cute little blog about my baby on my famlily blog but for some stupid reason it isn't working. It never does. I tried to put pictures on when we first got internet and something was wrong with the computer I was using so it wouldn't upload the pictures. So I got over it and went to use my inlaw's computer. I had to put the pictures on the computer first and when I went to upload them from my camera to the computer I realized the camera was dead and I forgot the charger. So I couldn't do anything. Next, I decided to use our laptop. I spent a whole day trying to figure out how to get the pictures where I wanted them on the computer because the stupid camera comes with it's own system that I didn't want to use. Figured that out and then decided to do a blog only to realize all the pictures I had were from Lake Powell and I wasn't in the mood to do a big long picture blog about Lake Powell...yet. So I took the time to email myself the pictures on my phone and then download them all onto my computer. (There is supposed to be a way I can just plug my phone into the computer with a USB but of course when I tried it, it didn't work...as usual.) So then I begin my blog and start by putting pictures first because as any of you who have "blogger" know, the pictures will go at the top, even if you already have text there. Anyway, I wait and wait and then....internet explore decides to close. Right when the pictures finish uploading but it isn't on long enough to save my blog as a draft. I open internet explorer and get to the site only to find it did not save my pictures that I so patiently waited for. And that was it. I took a deep breath, decided not to throw the computer across the room (which is another story for another blog) and went to my own blog to write this. A venting blog on how I really can't deal lately.

...and then I rambled for a bit before deleting a paragraph and starting over and then....Kyler unplugged the laptop. Awesome. So I stopped to spend time with my child that I was obviously not giving enough attention to. So guess I will just publish this.

I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for...ICE CREAM!

I love ice cream...surprise! Haha! But I don't love ALL ice cream. So, following the 'ask-answer' blog I did yesterday, let's see who knows what I like and don't like when it comes to ice cream. Don't forget to comment! Even guesses could be right!

1. I have already blogged about my favorite ice cream, cookie dough by blue bunny. Besides that flavor I have 2 other favorites. Mint chip is one and what is the other?

2. What is my favorite topping besides cookie dough?

3. What flavor ice cream (plain flavor) do I Not like?

4. What topping/mix-in do I hate?

5. How much ice cream do I eat in one week, on average?

One week to comment your answers...or more if no one comments.

ILOVEICECREAMILOVEICECREAMILOVEICECREAMILOVEICECREAMILOVEICECREAMILOVEICECREAM!

Back to the Blog

I realized I haven't blogged in awhile. I guess after that 30 day challenge I didn't feel like I had much to talk about. My first idea was to do another 30 days but then I thought, "wow, I talk about myself a lot." So I decided to switch it up. No, I'm not going to talk about other people. I'm going to have other people talk about me! Hahaha I sound so conceded. But hey, its my blog, or Empire, really. I know not many people read my blog but I do know of a few people that do. So I'll ask questions I think very few people know the answer to and see who really knows the answer. So, if you do know the answer, leave a comment. After 1 week I will tell you if you're right or not. What a fun game!

1. I very rarely get sick. When was I the most sick (that I remember)? Here's a clue: something big was going on in my life at the same time.

2. Not that I'm proud of it but I have sworn a time or two in my life. How old was I when I said my first swear word. *bonus if you know Which word it was.

3. I am "addicted" to 2 sugary things. What are they?

4. What movie did I hold my breath while watching the first time until the person watching with me said, "breathe!"?

5. What genre of movies do I refuse to watch?

6. How many elementary schools did I attend?

7. What is the nickname I had that is a type of animal?

8. When I was little what did I call "ice cream"? (There is no right way to spell it.)

9. I have 4 favorite numbers. Name at least one of them.

10. What country do I want to visit? Careful, this could be a trick question.

Don't forget to comment! Even if you only know one of the answers or just have a guess.

Home {not so} Sweet Home

If you have read my blog before you will know that we recently fixed up our house in St. George. Well, the new renters (who moved in in April, decided they couldn't afford to live there and wanted to sell their contract. We put anv ad on ksl classifieds on a Tuesday and by Friday afternoon we had the deposit of our new tenants. This gave the current renters one week to move out. They agreed to it so that they wouldn't have another months rent to pay. We had heard from the new tenants that not everything was in perfect condition. So we decided to drive down to make sure and meet the new tenants. The privious ones only lived there for 3 months, how bad could it be? So we get there and the old tenant is showing us around the house and one of the bedrooms has a broken door jam. As in, their kid locked it from the inside so instead of calling a lock smith or trying to figure out how to unlock or unhinge the door, they just broke it in. It was cracked and in pieces for about a foot and a half along the side. They had "tried" to piece it back together with the few bigger pieces by screwing them in. (Because that doesn't look tacky at all!) And then they wanted to fill the rest of the holes with putty. Are ya kiddin me?! I guess if the house we a run down piece of crap it would be ok but this is a nice house that we just fixed up to top condition. So Jake goes to Lowe's hoping he can just replace the one one piece. Nope. They broke it so bad we have to replace the entire door jam. So Jake finds out how much it will cost and how much to instal it and everything and we head back to the house. That's when we notice the scratch in the living room wall that runs the entire length of the room. A big black line and a couple big gashes. What have these people been doing??! And the girls all "oh, I can just paint over that." Uh, no! Jake tells he the holes have to be filled first and then sanded and then painted. Ridiculous! Next she tells us that the front door knob was all jamed in and they had to "fix" that so the door would stay closed. There was not even 24 hours between the time we left and they moved in. Meaning either the old tenants or someone else tried to break in in that short window of time or they did something to that door too. We agree not to charge them for that and Jake fixes it the right way in less than 5 min.
Ok, now a little background info. They lived there 3 months and we never got a full months rent. They did pay the $500 deposit. So they owed us $470. And although it says in our contract you can't use your deposit for last month or back rent we decide to let them do it. We never once charged them a late fee. And we let them pay later in the month when they got their check. We were nothing but nice. So they now only have $30 of their deposit. We decide that needs to go towards all the minor repairs we have to do and that makes us even. And then there is the $200 for the door jam, which they broke. I understand some people aren't good with math but it seems pretty clear to me. She just kept saying "that comes out of our deposit right?" Honey, you ain't go no deposit! After awhile she gets it and we decide to have her sign a contract saying they'll pay the $200 by the end of the month. She calls her husband to okay it with him and I can hear him yelling on the other end. He obviously doesn't get it either. You can't just not pay rent and then expect everything you owe to disappear because you're moving out. Besides that They broke the door! Holy cow some people amaze me at how ridiculous they are. Anyway, she signs the contract and says she is going to leave...only she doesn't. She hangs out until the new tenants get there. And in listening to them talk I find out one of her kids peeed all over the wall so she had to clean that up. Not to mention he did it multiple times. And we found out that when the new tenants went to look at the house the other tenants just locked all 3 of their kids in a room and watched tv. Real responsible. No wonder he peed on the wall. The kid was left unattended.
So in the end she signed the contract and we're waiting for our $200 and the other renters paid us everything the owe on time. Let's just hope they keep that up. We are so glad to be rid of the other renters. If they could do that much damage in 3 months I don't want to know what it would have looked like over a year!

An Answer to My Prayers

IT HAS BEEN FOUND!!!
Thanks to all those who wished and prayed (and emailed Blue Bunny) for my ice cream to come back. I guess it never stopped being a flavor, Walmart just decided to stop carrying it. HOWEVER...Macey's has it! (for now) I don't know why I didn't think to look there, it's only blocks from my house. We just always do our shopping at Walmart. Jake went there the other day to get something and realized they had it! I was sooooo happy! He told me he didn't get it because I still had a lot of ice cream. Tonight we went there to get a couple things and I saw it. At first I thought, oh I don't need it. I should finish the other ones first. But then as I started to walk away I just couldn't do it. Plus it was on sale and it probably wouldn't be when I did come back for it. And it can sit in the freezer for a bit so I can finish the other one. Oh who am I kidding?!! I'm going to eat some as soon as I finish this. Mmmm heaven. I can almost taste it already. Well, that' enough blogging...I've got stuff to do (and ice cream to eat!!!!)

Celine says it all...

I was waiting for so long
For a miracle to come
Everyone told me to be strong
Hold on and don't shed a tear

Through the darkness and good times
I knew I'd make it through
And the world thought I had it all
But I was waiting for you
Hush, love I see a light in the sky
Oh, it's almost blinding me
I can't believe I've been touched by an angel with love

Let the rain come down and wash away my tears
Let it fill my soul and drown my fears
Let it shatter the walls for a new, new sun
A new day has...come

Where it was dark now there's light
Where there was pain now there's joy
Where there was weakness, I found my strength
All in the eyes of a boy

Hush, love I see a light in the sky
Oh, it's almost blinding me
I can't believe I've been touched by an angel with love

Let the rain come down and wash away my tears
Let it fill my soul and drown my fears
Let it shatter the walls for a new, new sun
A new day has...come


It's pretty obvious what this song is about but I heard it the other day and realized it was a great way to describe how I felt when jake and I first met.

iCe CrEaM DELEMA!!

I'm very upset. As some of you may have heard or read on previous posts or facebook I have an all time favorite ice cream. After all these years of trying flavor after flavor, brand after brand I have found the ONE. And that amazing ice cream is Blue Bunny's Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. It is an amazingly creamy ice cream that is swirled with cookie dough ribbon and cookie dough chunks and chocolate chips and it is always just a perfect mix. And it comes in an awesome plastic container which means it stays fresh and the box doesn't get all wilty when I eat it out of the carton. I remember when I found this ice cream. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. All my life I had said my favorite was either vanilla or mint chocolate chip...and then there it was! Perfect. I had to have it. Jake made sure to keep it stocked in the freezer. Sure, I got a different flavor every once and awhile (like 3 times) but I always went back to my one true love for ice cream. And then.....something HORRIBLE happened. AWFUL! TERRIBLE! I went to buy another carton and it was....GONE!! No where in sight. Not just out of stock. It wasn't there. No tag. No nothing. And in it's place? Some disgusting peanut butter crap! Doesn't Blue Bunny know that ice cream is what keeps me going some days? It almost brings me to tears. Every time we go to the store we check....it's been about a month now. No luck. I was forced into getting something new the last time and I got stuck with a stupid brownie bite with carmel swirls. The brownie bites were gross. And tonight I got Beyer's Mrs. Fields cookie dough. The closest thing to the ultimate ice cream. It was ok. Too many chocolate chips, dough was a little gritty, and well, it just wasn't my Blue Bunny. I suppose I should start trying other stores but I doubt it will be there. If Blue Bunny discontinued it I will be very very very sad for a very long time. So here's to asking your support. Cross your fingers. Make a wish. Say a prayer. Whatever it takes to get my ice cream back!!

I thought his name was Warren.

Names that bother me.
Jennifer and I had this conversation awhile back and working in a pediatricians office I see a lot of names I just can't stand. Please don't take offense if any of these are yours or someone you knows name. Its strictly the name and not the person.
Stephen...pronounced ste-ven. Cuz I want to say stef-en.
Sean...Shawn. Seen.
Lincoln...what's with the silent L? But for some reason that's the only way it Should be spelt. I recently saw 'Linkon' and that bothers me even more.
Axel/Aksle...that is a car part, not a person. Also, easily miss pronounced to sound like what you might call someone who is being a jerk.
Chelsea...Chel-see-a is how it sounds in my head.
Kid. No, I'm not joking, people really do name their kids Kid. That being said I should also add...
Guy. Why not just name them Person. Human. Man. Boy. Male.
Mia...is It my-a or me-a? I get it wrong either way.
And then there are the people who name their kid one thing with the intention of calling them another. For example they "go by their middle name". If you want them to go by their middle name why not just save the kid a butt load of confusion and put that name first?! Or recently I've found people are naming their kids one thing and calling them something that isn't even close to their given name. Example...his name is Joseph, let's call him Jack. What? Cuz they both start with a j it's ok? Now sometimes you can get away with this. Like, if there is a sibling who can't say the given name so they get called something else and it just sticks. What I don't like is when people do this intentionally.
And lastly, names that make you go "huh?" These are the kids that just learn to memorize where their name is on the roll so that when the substitute teacher suddenly pauses trying to figure out how to pronounce it they can just say "here." And I don't necessarily mean names in other languages. I'm sure in their language it's a perfectly normal name. I'm talking about the names people come up with just by throwing a bunch of letters together and then pronouncing it completely different than how it's spelt.
I only hope my children will like the names we pick for them and they won't have too much torture because of their name. I love my name but Melissa, Alisa, Alisha gets old. Poor Tyler...I mean KYLER...with a k!

LAST DAY! I did it!! The End. Finished. Complete. HOORAY! DAY 30!!!!

Blog 1

Something that means a lot to you.

The two most imporant things in my life right now are my boys, Jake and Kyler. And since I talk about Kyler a lot with everything I think this one will be Jake's turn.
I love him so much and don't know what I would do without him. I am so grateful for him everyday. He is so wonderful and i'd say more than the average husband. I wouldn't be surprised if some of you ladies out there were a little jealous lol. He works hard to support our family and he's a hard worker at home too. His parents raised him right. I am SUPER spoiled. Jake loves to cook so I hardly ever cook. Even if we aren't having the same thing he will still make mine for me. And then he even cleans up and does the dishes. He does the laundry more often than me and he does all the yard work. He is an amazing dad to Kyler and Nala. And he loves me no matter how crazy and emotional I get. He very rarely gets angry or annoyed and he never yells or says unkind things to me. He has a strong testimony and he knows how to make me laugh. I am soooooooooo blessed to have Jake in my life. I still don't know what I did to deserve him but I'm not complaining!

Blog 2

Whatever tickles your fancy
10 random facts unique to me

1. I have sleep paralysis (and yes, Jennifer, I did jinx myself).
2. I am super scared of ants. They creep me out really bad.
3. I didn't get my license until I was 17 1/2, I got my first kiss that summer too.
4. I have never broken a bone or had stitches.
5. My original due date was Feb 29 so I was almost a leap year baby.
6. My honeymoon was my first time on an air plane.
7. I love wind mills. Its weird but its because we always pass them on the way to cali.
8. I was an only child for the first 7 1/2 years of my life. Now I'm the second oldest of 8.
9. I have depression/ anxiety and monophobia, although I haven't confirmed that last one, I'm pretty sure I have it.
10. I don't like roller coasters or the feeling of your stomach dropping.

Dia Vientinueve

Blog 1

Your family

Well, there's my cute little family, which consists of:
Me, Jake, Kyler, and Nala. We all love each other and spend our time fighting over kisses and loves. :)
Then there are my in-laws. Some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. And best of all, they're Normal! They're always so laid back and cool about things. They may not always agree but they work it out without all the drama. Their family consists of:
Mom and dad, Allyson, Chris, Mike, Jake, Bobby, and all of their spouses and children.
Next is my family. Divided in two, which makes for more to love.
My mom's side: Mom and Joe, Jimmy and Kathleen (steps), Mandy, and Issac (half).
My dad's side: Dad and Cece, Kayla (step), William and Mason (half's).

So as you can see I come from a big, confusing family. And if you're looking at that and saying, "it's not that confusing" well, you don't know the half of it. And those of you that do know my family history are either saying, "yeah, I still don't get it" or you must be related in order to completely understand it. Let's just say my ancestors are going to have a blast doing my geneology.

Blog 2

Hopes, dreams, and plans for the next 365 days

Well they say the world ends tomorrow so I guess nothing! Haha! Ok, I don't really believe that. I guess my plans will be to just keep living. I hope to be happy and for my family to be happy. My dream is to somehow do something towards my wedding planning career and make more money. Gain a stronger testimony. Go on a vacation (please, oh please!) And just try to be my best possible self. Practice what I've learned in therapy and maybe go to some more.

For The Love

While sitting in the lobby of a car dealership a man saw Kyler on Jake's lap and said, "Looks like you guys did things the hard way. We got ours on Ebay. We have 2 little boys from China." Obviously joking about adopting his sons I found the conversation we had after that interesting. Jake told him that we are planning on adopting from Russia eventually. He said it wasn't really all that easy to adopt. We agreed and said that's why we were waiting awhile, to save money and be more prepared. He then asked, "How do you feel about fetal alcohol syndrom?" I told him it would be rough but we know that adopting from Russia comes with a lot of challenges and FAS is pretty common." The next part is what surprised me. He told us that China didn't have things like that and his kids were super smart. His 4 year old was using really big words and is in advanced preschool. I felt like he was trying to sell the idea of adopting from China to us. Like Russia is not a good place to adopt from. If you want a really good kid go for China. I'm sorry but adopting is Not like buying a new car. I don't plan on inspecting the child I adopt and saying, "well, his head is a little big and his teeth are crooked." I'm adopting for love. I'm going to accept whatever child God thinks I should have. I wouldn't rate the children I give birth to and adopting is no different. I know that people might think we are crazing for adopting, especially from Russia. We are able to bear children, we aren't rich, and Russia is one of the most crazy places to adopt from. Their government is crazy, making the process complicated, and regulations for adopting are crazy as well. We could "pass" all the tests and get to the court system and the judge could say no just because he doesn't like our smile. And like the guy at the dealership pointed out there is a lot of FAS and other health issues to contend with. And despite all that I still plan on adopting from Russia in my life time. I can't tell you exactly why I want to. I just know its what I need to do. I know of people that say they are done having kids and then later get this feeling that there is one more waiting up there. Well that's kind of how I feel. I have this precious baby girl who will be waiting for me when the time comes to adopt her. And no one can change that.

DAY 28! day 28! dAY 28! DaY 28!

Blog 1

Yourself in high school

High school. Good. Bad. Best 3 years. Worst 3 years.
Sophmore year...mostly bad. I was still in my awkward stage. I wore glasses the first half of the year. I had no sense of style at all and I still thought I wasn't allowed to talk to boys until february, when I turned 16. I had a bad teacher that caused problems part of the year. My locker was in the worst place possible. I was still getting lost after a few months. There just wasn't a lot of good that year.
Junior year...getting better. I knew what I was doing for the most part. I bought a straightener for my hair. I was finally getting out of my awkwardness. I had a boy friend or two. I had good teachers. I was finally having fun.
Senior year...loved almost everything about it. I could drive myself. Definate plus. I had great friends. I had free classes to do whatever I wanted. I got a job. Money is always good. Boys. Fun fun fun. Although sometimes I look back and think I should have been more serious and got more done before college. But then I think no, I'm glad things happened the way they did.

Blog 2

This year, in great detail

A year ago today was jake and my first anniversary of being sealed in the temple. Jake was so sweet and got me a very pretty necklace with Kyler's birth stone. I was pregnant at the time and we knew I was due in Oct so after he gave me that necklace we just prayed I would actually have the baby in October.
In June we found out that Kyler was a boy. That was very exciting.
We went camping a few times last summer. In July I quit my job at orchard park and started working for my dad at his car dealership and started training for my current job at a pediatricians office. In Aug Jake and I celebrated our 3 year anniversary and Courtney and Alec got married. September 30 was Jennifer's birthday and the day I started to go into labor. October 4 Kyler was born. In November we went to cali to visit family for Thanksgiving. Dec was Christmas, of course. February was my 23 birthday. In March my grandpa passed away. April wasn't too exciting and now here we are to May again and I can happily say I celebrated my first mothers day and like I said in the begining, today is our 2 year anniversary of being sealed to my amazing husband.

SOME PEOPLE!

What is with some people? I know we're all different and there's always someone else out there that thinks you're just as weird as you think they are...but some people are just extreme. And some people just drive me nuts!
Some people act like they are rich and famous when they clearly are Not! You know the type. Cocky. And they are either too happy, because everyone loves them and they know it, or just plain rude.
The happy guys like this are super flirty, calling the waitress by name and telling her how much everyone loves him. And the girls like this will call you "hon" or "sweet heart" or, if you're in the south, "sugar pie". And they are always sure to thank their fan club.
Then there are the mean ones. The ones that really must have something up their bum because how else could they look like that? And even though they've never seen, talked to, or met you before they act like you did something really rude. You say hello with a smile and they can barely muster a hi while avoiding eye contact because you're so far beneath them they can't see you anyway. And then its like everything you ask of them, no matter how small, is just absolutely ridiculous. Nothing you do or say could ever please them.
It's people like that, that make me crazy. But I guess everyone is someone and together we make the world go 'round.

dDd aAa yYy 27

Blog 1

Something that upsets you, and something that makes you feel better

Lots of things upset me. The ones I can think of now are...
"Friends"....people that used to be my friend but aren't anymore. And sometimes I think I miss them but then I remember why we aren't talking and realize its probably for the better. Even if we are just being stubborn. I have a hard time because I want to trust everyone but I just can't keep getting hurt.
Family ....mine can be a little crazy at times. Divorce. Teenagers. Extended family. Jealousy. Opinions. I know everyones family is a little messed up but I think I am right in saying my family got a little extra dose of crazy.
Money ....there is never, ever enough. And trying to always manage it is a pain-in-the-BUTT.
Rude people ...this includes rude drivers, rude customers, rude everyone. Just be nice!!
Memories ....sometimes I would just like to forget the hurt.

Things that make me feel better...
Skittles ...hand me a bag and see if I can help smiling.
Ice cream ...its just my favorite
Dr. Pepper ...same as the skittles. Jake's choice method of cheering me up.
Hugs ...from Jake are best but I do like other hugs too.
Therapy ...haha I'm laughing because I know it helps but I usually dread going.
Kyler's giggles ...I can't help but smile when I hear them, even if I'm crying my eyes out.
Jennifer ....listening and talking through my problems with me. She is the bestest best friend.


Blog 2

Your month, in great detail

I had a hard time remembering my week and now I have to do the month!? Let's see...what happened this last month? We had Easter breakfast at our house with my mom and family and then Kyler and I went to dad's for dinner. Kyler got his first ear infection. We cleaned up the yard and planted flowers. Ummm......I can't think. I quit my job at Shamrock. We bought a new tent. I had my first mothers day. I had, and got out of jury duty. That's really all I can think of. My life is So exciting!

Blog Day 26

Blog 1

15 facts about you

1.I have a photographic memory
2. My cousin is also my step-sister
3. I am a perfectionist
4. I am afraid of needles
5. I don't know how to drive a manual
6.I am afriad of deep water
7.I like pepperoni and olive pizza
8. I do not like peanut butter
9. I wear contacts
10. I am exactly (pretty close) 5 ft tall
11. I am a romantic
12. I like school, including math
13. My favorite color is purple
14. I went to 4 different elementary schools
15. I want to/wish I could write movies

Blog 2

Your week, in great detail

Monday- I went to work. I picked up kyler from moms. I came home and cleaned up the house. Jake came home. We went to Taco Bell and they gave us crappy food. I called and told the guy and he was all "yeah, whatev". We went to costco and got a new tent and wipes. We came home and watched tv before going to bed.
Tuesday- we got up and got ready. Went to Ross and got some clothes for Jake. Went to Cafe Rio for lunch. Went to walmart. Came home and did some weeding. We went up the canyon with the scouts. Had wendys for dinner and that was about it.
Wednesday- I went to work. Came home and watched Jake fix up our flower bed. It is now beautiful. We went to dinner with Jake's mom, Bobby, Emily, and Landon at Ruby River.
Thursday- Jake went to work at 10. Kyler and I hung out. We went for a really long walk. Went home and watched tv while waiting for Jake to get home. When he got home we went to walmart and bought my mom some plants for mothers day. Then we took them to her. Came home and finished the flower bed.
Friday- I went to work. Then I don't remember....weird.
Saturday - Jake went to work at noon. Kyler and I went shopping with Jennifer and hung out at her place for a bit. Then Kyler and I came home and vegged til Jake got home.
Sunday - you can read about that in my previous post.

day 25 52 yad

Blog 1

An animal you'd like to keep as a pet

I always wanted a tiger. Like Jasmine in Aladin. But mine would be a white tiger. I think they are prettier.

Blog 2

Your day, in great detail

Wow. Just had to be today's. I'll try to be happy about it, it was a rough day.
Woke up around 10. Did my hair and make-up. Jake made breakfast. We ate eggs, bacon, and toast with OJ to drink. I went and got Kyler and fed him breakfast. Realized he wasn't ready, Jake was just starting to get ready and I still wasn't dressed and we only had 15 before church started. Decided we weren't going to church. Finished feeding Kyler. Sat on the couch and watched TV. Put Kyler down for a nap. Ate some Oreo's. Got kyler up from his nap. Played with him for a bit while Jake took a nap. Kyler started to cry, he was constipated. Jake and I took turns trying to make him more comfortable and get him to stop crying. He finally relaxed. Jake went to work. Kyler and I decided to take a nap. I couldn't sleep but tried until Kyler woke up a little over an hour later. Put on the movie 9 and made myself some ramen noodles. Ate while watching the movie. Fed kyler. Then he pooped (finally). Held him while we watched the rest of the movie. Text Jennifer. Got a bath ready for Kyler. Bathed him. Got him dressed. Sat on the couch. Started doing my blog. And here we are...

DAY24

Blog 1

Something you would never get tired of doing

Everything I think of sounds good until I think about doing it forever. I guess it depends on how the question is being asked. Like is it something I just have to do non-stop or something I do daily? I don't think I could do anything non-stop, 24/7 without getting bored. I get bored easily. So I think I'll go with the every day thing.
Things I could do everyday without getting tired of it-
Kissing Jake
Kissing Kyler
Making Kyler giggle
Checking Facebook
Eating ice cream
Eating skittles
Sleeping in

Blog 2

Whatever tickles you fancy

Hmm....how about the opposite of the above. Things I will always be tired of.
Things I wish I never had to do-
Laundry
Dishes
Floss my teeth
Get sick
Pay bills
See ex boyfriends
Pee
Pull weeds

Day 20 + 3 = 23

Blog 1

Your favorite place to eat

Mmm....I love food and I love eating out. So I don't think I can pick just one place.
Fast Food- I can almost always go for Wendy's
Mexican - Cafe Rio
Italian - the food is good but the service sucks but I have to say Olive Garden
Asian - Asian Star
And finally I have to put a restaurant that I know Jake thinks I would say is my favorite because I crave it all the time. The Blue Lagoon. Never heard of it? That's because it is on a cruise ship. They were the perfect place to go for comfort food at all hours of the day or night. They had chicken fingers and French fries and wonton soup and cheesecake and pound cake and deliciousness! Mmm, now I'm hungry.
Also, a restaurant in Mexico called Cynthia's. So yummy!

Blog 2

A YouTube video

Well I don't watch much YouTube but the other day Jennifer and I were watching these really funny animal videos. And I know I'm going to sound ridiculous but I can't remember what they're called. I'll have to post the link to one on here the next time I use her computer.

22 Days of Blogging

Blog 1

Somewhere you've been

I am very fortune to have been on a lot of vacations in my life. One of my favorite vacation spots is Santa Cruz, CA. Its right in the middle of the California coast line and it has the best beach boardwalk ever. Its got an arcade, an amusement park, which is better than lagoon, food, shopping, and the Beach!! And at the end of the pier is a very yummy ice cream shop. And we always stayed in a motel that was literally right across the street. And then, if that isn't enough, its only about a half hour scenic drive to Monterey and Carmel. Carmel is so beautiful and so is Monterey. I love going to Monterey for 3 reasons. 1) Bubba Gumps. A restaurant that is themed around the movie Forrest Gump. And even if it is a fish place and I don't like fish its just fun to be there and they have really good views of the ocean. 2) Monterey Bay Aquarium. I love that place. I love the ocean. 3) The Silver shop. I can't remember exactly what it's called but they have a ton of silver rings and jewelry. I always wear 3 rings, my wedding ring, my promise ring, and my silver ring from Monterey. OK, now I'm going crazy and want to go there right now. We were actually planning on going last year but that was before we knew I'd be pregnant. And it just wouldn't be as fun not being able to ride rides and the long drive out there. But I do hope we can go again soon.

Blog 2

A website

Two fun websites are:
Not Always Right....the customer isn't always right
My Life Is Average....random happenings in people's lives

And of course my most visited websites are:
Facebook
Hotmail
Blogger
MACU

My blog is an adult now. Day 21 :)

Blog 1

The meaning behind your blog name

I'm a little hesitant to do this one because I like that not many people know. My blog title, Alyssa's Empire: Open til Midnight, is from my favorite movie, Empire Records. In the movie they answer the phones, "Empire Records, open til midnight." So I just made that my own (with a little help from my best friend, and person who introduced me to the movie, Jennifer.) At first, all the blog titles were lines from the movie but when I started doing the 30 days of blogging that didn't really work out.

Blog 2

A recipe

One of my favorites growing up, which makes it one of my comfort foods. Something I actually don't mind eating left overs of. And one of the only things I seriously craved while I was pregnant.

Tuna Casserole

3 c Cooked macaroni noodles
1 can tuna fish
1/2 c milk
1 c grated cheese
1 can cream of chicken/ mushroom

Combine all ingredients in 2 qt. casserole dish and top with cheese. Bake 20-30 min at 375°.

Twentieth Day

Blog 1

The town you live in

I live in Provo, UT. College town USA. I really like where I live because it is close to just about everything. But I have to admit Provo isn't my favorite. I'm not sure what it is but Provo just isn't as warm and loving as Orem. Orem will always be my home. They might be right next to each other but they are completely different. Maybe its because everyone comes and goes so fast. Or maybe it's because most people are still in school so they are too busy and too clicky. Jake agrees. Provo is cold. And I don't mean the temperature. For some reason its hard to get to know people and be friends with people here. Since we moved to Provo we just haven't felt like we fit in for some reason. In Orem it just always seemed like we were one big family. It didn't matter who you were. Rich/poor, young/old, Oldsmobile/ inactive, kids/single. We all helped each other out. We were all friends. Orem: family city, USA. Which is why when we move again I hope it can be to a place like Orem. I would say we would just move to Orem but it's pretty expensive.

Blog 2

A hobby of yours

Scrapbooking
Art projects
Reading
Writing

Those are my general hobbies. But lately my hobbies are:
Tickling
changing diapers
Feeding
Playing

d1a9y...read between the lines

Blog 1

Someone you didn't want to let go, but just drifted away

Ok, I have to be honest, I just randomly picked this topic. I was following the topics that my cousin was doing on her blog but I've now caught up to her and she doesn't have a day 19 yet. So I went to a friends blog and picked one of her topics. And now that I have that out of the way...
There are a lot of people that I wish I were still friends with. But life happens and we just drift or change. So I don't know who reads my blog but I'm just going to be honest and list the people I really do miss. If you're on this list and think we are still close you might want to give me a call cuz I'm not so sure we are. If you aren't on the list and think you should be...its obviously been too long.

Tracy
Darian
Danielle
Michelle
Emily
Kira
LeErin
Katie
Kathleen

Blog 2

A talent of yours

I guess my biggest talent I have is my artistic talent but I feel like I've already done this post because of the one I did about a piece of art. I've had a lot of practice and its paid off. But I'm a perfectionist so I never think it's good enough and I don't have the time or more like the patience to do it. Maybe I'll find a way to put some of my art on here. Some day.

Responsibility

Why can't people take responsibility for their own actions? It drives me nuts!
Someone is speeding and gets pulled over and gets a ticket. Their response? That stupid cop gave me a ticket!
A kid is talking in class. The teacher sends them to detention. Then they hate the teacher.
someone commits a sin and then is told they need to repent of it. Then they hate the religion.
An employee gets caught slacking off on the job and then they hate the manager who writes them up.
It just doesn't make sense. If YOU were doing something wrong and got caught it is not the person who caught you'd fault. YOU chose to do it. Take responsibility for YOUR actions.

Day18

Blog 1

Favorite Birthday

I think one of my most memorable birthday's was my 6th birthday. It was actually warm enough to have an outside party and it was my first real "friend" party. Lots of people came and we played games and I got the cake I had wanted for awhile, a Barbie cake. Which was a cake that had a Barbie doll in it and the dress was made of cake. I also got a family party and my Grandma Karen and Grandpa Grizz came and I got a diaper bag full of baby doll stuff. I was so excited!
Other birthdays I remember:
8- party at McDonald's in Wyoming.
11- skate party at classic skating
13- just a fun party at my house.
14- dress up party. We got our hair and make-up done and went to dinner.
16- date party. Not so great but I remember it.
18- party at Jordan's house. Would have been more fun if I actually had friends.
22- I was sick on my birthday is all I remember.

Blog 2

Whatever tickles your fancy

So I think for this one I'll steal an ABC list from my cousin's blog.

Age: 23
Bed size: King
Chore you hate: Folding the laundry after its done
Dogs: Nala
Essential start of your day: Putting my contacts in
Favorite color: Purple
Gold or silver: Silver
Height: 5'0''
Instruments I play (or have played): Piano
Job title: Receptionist
Kids: Kyler
Live: Provo, UT
Mom's name: Leslie
Nickname: Lyssa, Lyssy, Lyss
Overnight hospital stays: Oct 3-7 2010, giving birth to Kyler. I loved staying at the hospital.
Pet peeve: Arguing and hypocrites
Quote: "We are free to chose our actions. We are not free to chose our consequenses"
Right or left handed: Right
Siblings: 7
Time you wake up: Mon and fri 6:30. Wed and some sat 7:15. Tues and Thurs 10:30. Sun 9:30
Underwear: garments
Vegetables you dislike: cauliflower, squash, asperigus
What makes you run late: waking up late, clothes, and poopy diapers
X-rays you've had done: Just on my teeth at the dentist
Yummy food you make: pancakes
Zoo animal: I like the tigers and penguins

DaY SeVeNtEeN

Blog 1

This month

April. This month wasn't too exciting. I went to work. Quit my job at my dads work. Kyler had his 6 month birthday and doctors appointment. He weighs over 15lbs now. No wonder my back hurts. He had his first Easter this year. Which wasn't too exciting but it was a really good day. My mom and family came over for breakfast and then Kyler and I went to my dads for dinner. We got new renters this month. So far so good. Jake and I have now known each other and been together over 4 years now. Hmm...that's about all I can think of for now.

Blog 2

A piece of artwork

Being somewhat of an artist this is kind of hard to pick. One of my favorite, and I think one of my best, pieces is the painting I did for one of my classes at UVU. It is of an American flag with the Marine Corps logo in front of it. I think it's one of my best because it's actually finished (I always lose motivation before I finishk a painting), and it may have been an assignment but I got to pick exactly what I wanted to do. And I put a lot of heart into it. At the time I was dating someone in the marines.Part of me wants to sell it because its probably the only piece I could make money off of and well the whole ex-boyfriend thing. So...if you're interested make me an offer!
A little about my art:
I don't do real life. I can't draw anything with a face very well. I draw a lot of spring. In other words, flowers, butterflies, landscapes, that sort of thing. I like to draw still life and 3D buildings and stuff. I like acrylic paint and sometimes watercolor. I like oils but its a lot of work and takes too long to dry. I also love ceramics and using a pottery wheel. I like to draw Celtic knots and cool designs. I like to scrapbook and I do some floral work. With my mom being an artist along with my uncles and step dad I guess you could say I inherited it and I really am an artist at heart. If only I had more time, and space, to do it.

Sweet Sixteen. Day 16

Blog 1

First kiss

Do you want the whole story or long story short? Long story short: His name was Jeremy. Ok, you're right, the whole story might be better.
I was "going out" with Jeremy and he asked on our first date if I was still VL. When I said yes I'm pretty sure he made it his new goal to steal my first kiss. I wasn't so sure about kissing. I had a couple of boy friends before him but they never tried to kiss me. Weird! I was 17, definatly passed my sweet 16. So I tossed around the idea, playing hard to get while he tried to make a move for a little over a month. *side story...I told my friends about the 'first kiss drama' and they decided that because they hated Jeremy they should not let him be my first kiss. So he took me on a "date" and then attempted to kiss me at the door step. Little did he know my other friend told me of their plan....I turned my head when he made a move. Ouch!* So Jeremy may think he got his way by getting my first kiss but it really was me deciding that is what I wanted. Needless to say it was short and sweet. More like just a brush of the lips. Of course the next day I got the real thing. *back to the side story...my friends did not know I had kissed Jeremy. So at one more attempt he took me on another date. This time I gave in and let him kiss me. (I know, I was a lip slut, 2 guys in 3 days) He did not find out that he wasn't my real first kiss until much, much later. And Jeremy never knew what happened 2 days after our first kiss.* It may have been wrong of me and maybe a little mean but meh, I like the story and hey, they both got what they wanted and I got double action! Ha!

Blog 2

A song that makes you cry (or nearly)

2 come to mind but its been awhile since they've made me feel that way. Mostly because the reasoning behind them is gone.
Wake Me Up When September Ends by Green Day
Run by Snow Patrol
And sometimes How to Save a Life by The Fray

I also used to always cry when I heard God Be With You Til We Meet Again

Half Way! Day 15

Blog 1

Dreams

Dreams...this word could mean 2 things. It could mean things I wish/hope for or things I actually dream about at night. I guess my dream for life would be to be a successful wife and mother and then to be successful in my career as well. I wish I could go to school but the reality is life happens and things don't always go the way we want. Not that I had a drastic change or something in my life. I just didn't realize, when I planned my life as a child, that life isn't always as easy as it seems. I always thought I would go to college, get married and have a couple kids and then be a full time teacher. Well, then I decided I didn't want to be a teacher. It was harder to go back to school not knowing what I was going to do with my schooling especially knowing I'd have to pay for it all, eventually. Then I decided I wanted to be a wedding planner. One online class for only $500. Would have worked out perfect if it weren't for our stupid renters not paying us month after month. And then we decided it was time to start our family. And now I have a great job at a pediatricians office working good hours. Things are great, they just never go as planned. And I just have to keep reminding myself that. I'm a major perfectionist so when things don't go to plan I tend to feel frustrated. I just have to remember that just because plans changed doesn't mean things are bad. I just have to live for today and make the best of it. G
And then there are the dreams I have at night...I have a pretty good memory so I can easily remember my dreams. Which is sometimes nice but sometimes not because if it was a bad dream I have a hard time getting it out of my head. Luckily, I don't have many nightmares. I refuse to watch scary movies because I'm afraid of having nightmares. I dream about work a lot. Which is sometimes annoying because I usually dream about the stressful parts and then I can't sleep well. I like dreams. I thinks it can be so interesting to think about the stories your mind puts together when you're sleeping.

Blog 2

A fan

As in what I'm a fan of? I am a fan of music. I've been in 2 official fan clubs. Fall Out Boy and Panic! At The Disco. I used to be able to tell you everything there is to know about those two bands. But now I'm a mom with better things to do then follow other peoples lives. And now I'm sad to say Panic! came out with a new cd and I didn't even know about it until I heard their song on the radio. Sad day for me, realizing I'm growing up. Here's what I can remember...
Fall Out Boy:
Patrick is the lead singer. Pete Wentz is the bassist and back up singer and he writes most of the lyrics. And he is married to Ashley Simpson (I'm not sure why!) and they have a son named Bronx Mogli Wentz. Andy is the guitarist and joe is the drummer. Their producer or label or whatever its called is Fueled by Ramen. Sad. I used to know a lot more.
Panic! At The Disco:
Brenden Urie is the lead singer. I kissed him on the cheek. He grew up LDS. Ryan Ross was the guitarist (I sadly just learned he isn't even in the band anymore). I kissed him on the cheek too. He wrote a lot of their first lyrics. And I don't know the other band/former band members names. They are from Las Vegas and were made famous by Pete Wentz.
And that's all I can think of for now.
I'm also a fan of Edward Norton and Jonny Depp isn't too bad either.

d-A 4-teen

Blog 1

What you wore

Today I wore my butterfly jeans. (They have a pink butterfly by the back pocket.) And a light pink shirt and pink jacket. White socks and my pink and tan shoes. I wore pink earings, my wedding ring, promise ring, and silver ring. And a rubber band in my hair. (And of course my underwear and bra.) Guess you could say I was "pretty in pink" today.

Blog 2

A non-fictional book

I'm not really into non-fiction so this might be a tough one. Hmm...got it! The Book of Mormon.
I hadn't ever really read it when I was younger so I'm glad to say that Jake and I actually read the whole thing a couple years ago. What a testimony builder! I mean, growing up I read bits and pieces and heard the stories but it wasn't until I actually read the whole thing that I realized how amazing it really is. And it completely shocks me to think how many people don't believe it. And don't believe that Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God. Honestly, I think if you don't believe The Book of Mormon is true you haven't read it. And if you have you must be pretty strong to keep telling yourself it isn't true. Seriously, what an AMAZING book!!! I recommended Everyone read it at Least once. It will change your life.

D.A.Y. 13

Blog 1

A Picture

Seriously? Maybe later.

Blog 2

A fictional book

Just one?! I can't pick. OK.....The Big Empty. Alright, so its actually a series of 4 books but it might as well be one book. Its one of those series where each book has a cliff hanger ending so you go crazy until you can read the next one. Which is why I have made a rule for myself: DO NOT START READING A SERIES UNLESS YOU ARE POSITIVE THE LIBRARY OWNS THEM ALL. You may or may not have heard but the Orem library does not own the last book of this series. Therefore, as much as I like these books I do Not recommend reading them....unless you talk to me first. I Do own the last book, thanks to Jennifer. I'd say she was just being nice but its more like she couldn't take my complaining anymore. And she loves me a lot. Anyway, about the book(s);
Its set in the 2000's and tells a group of teenagers stories about surviving what's basically the end of the world. I don't want to give too much away. It can be kind of scary if you start to think about how easily our world could turn into what happens in the book. Read it. Or don't. But remember if you do, call me first.

On the 12th day of blogging...

Blog 1

What you did today

Up at ten. Kyler and I got dressed and ate breakfast. Then we went to Orchard Park to visit some of the residents that I miss. It was a lot of fun. Then we went to my moms to say hi and so that I could feed Kyler. Afterwards we went home and while Kyler napped I cleaned the house. After he woke up we played for a bit until daddy got home. Then we all went to Costco and bought a very nice tent for this summer and then went back home. We debated about what to eat for dinner and finally decided on fritos and taco meat for me and brotz for Jake. And now here we sit, in front of the TV. Kyler in his play thing and me on my phone.

Blog 2

(I'm an idiot) whatever tickles your fancy
When I started this whole "30 days of blogging" thing I did not realize this meant I can blog about whatever I want. I get it now. So I pick...I take that back...Jake picks...cookies.

Jake makes the worlds best chocolate chip cookies. He made up the secret recipe by taking the best parts of other cookie recipes. His family, mostly his dad, love it when he makes cookies. And so do I. I do wish we could eat them all before they go bad though. Even if we do give most of them away. I just hate for anything to go to waste.
The secret recipe is going to be passed down to Kyler, when he is old enough. Yum yum yum!

DDaayy 11

Blog 1

Your week

Sunday: church
Monday: half day of work
Tuesday: day off and running errands
Wednesday: back to work
Thursday: day off, just me and ky
Friday: work again
Saturday: day off to clean the house

Usually not too exciting.

Blog 2

A photo of you taken recently.......yeah, you know the drill.

A Big Fat Hen. Day 10

Blog 1

What's in your purse

Purse? Do I have one of those? I have a diaper bag. Does that count?
In the diaper bag you can usually find :
Diapers (obviously)
Wipes
Toys
An extra onesie
An extra outfit
A binki or two
Vitamins
Mylicon drops
Advil
Droppers for all 3 of those
Ointment
Nail clippers
Lotion
A changing mat
Gum
Pen
Femanine products
Nursing pads
My wallet
Phone
Keys

And I think that's it for a usual day. It gets pretty heavy but hey I'm building lots of muscles with the bag on one arm And a 15 lb baby on the other.

Blog 2

A photo (seriously?!) of you taken over ten years ago.
So I would have been 13 or younger. Just picture me with shorter hair and big ugly glasses.

Did I hear a Niner in there? Day 9

Blog 1

A Wish

If a genie gave me 3 wishes I would wish for:
1- A happy, healthy family.
2- Enough money to never stress about money.
3- To be a successful mother and wedding planner.

Blog 2

A photo you took

Once again...check back later...

Day Eight! Great!

Blog 1

Beliefs

Although most people may not realize it I am a very opinionated person with lots of beliefs. I just don't like to argue or upset people so I know when to keep my mouth shut.
Beliefs on religion:
I am, and always have been, a member of The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. And although my testimony has struggled at times I have always known what I believe. I believe in The Savior, Jesus Christ and the Atonement. I believe in repentance and forgiveness. I believe in the Holy Ghost. I know God answers prayers. I believe in eternal families. I know God loves all his children and I am a child of God.
Beliefs on children:
I am the oldest of 8, I have one child of my own and a handful of nieces and nephews. I now work as a receptionist in a pediatrician's office. I went through school thinking I would be a teacher or a child psychologist. I always knew I would be a mom and really looked forward to it. I have taken a lot of classes and done a lot of observing, which has taught me a lot. I'm not saying I'm anywhere near perfect, I just have my own opinions about children and how they are raised and what makes a child who they are.
I believe children need attention. The right attention and the right amount of it. A child who constantly does things to upset their parents probably isn't getting enough good attention. And after so long they make it a habit. Thinking that's the only way to get attention and realizing its a lot easier to get their parents attention if they are doing something they shouldn't.
Children learn by example. If you don't want your child to do something, don't do it. If you want them to do something, do it. Don't be a hypocrite. Its one of my biggest pet peeves. A parent lies and then yells at the child for lying. Where do you think they learned it? A parent yells or hits and then tells the child not to do the same. A parent shows no respect but then demands it from the child. Children and constantly learning, take the time to teach them.
Children need patience, love, respect, and help, to get through life.
Beliefs on life:
Treat others the way you want to be treated. Bottom line.

Blog 2

A photo that makes you angry/sad.

Seriously? Another photo one. Well the first thing that comes to mind are pictures I've seen of the children in Russian orphanages. As some of you know, we plan on adopting from Russia...when we get out of debt, but before we die, obviously. It makes me sad to think about what children all over the world, orphans or not, have to go through. People just can't take a minute to help someone else or to even help their own country. Children are just so helpless. I just don't understand how people can be so cold hearted.

Seventh Heaven...Blog Day 7

Blog 1

A Moment

One of my most favorite moments was....
Jake and I had just started dating and he still lived in St. George so my friends and I decided to take a road trip down there for a few days. While down there we went down to Vegas. We had a really fun day walking the strip and going to the M & M Factory, Coke Factory, and of course The Cheesecake Factory. After dinner Jake and I decided to spend some time by ourselves. He told me he wanted to "buy me something". I was kind of confused by this. Since when do guys like to just buy girls things? Haha. So we decided to go to the mall. We walked around and I couldn't think of anything that he could just buy me. So we went to Zale's....yeah. Anyway, we ended up looking at promise rings (because I wasn't ready to get engaged, we'd only known each other 3 weeks). I picked one out right before closing and we were supposed to meet our friends back at Ceasar's Palace at 9. We rushed back as fast as we could, running most the way. We finally go to Ceasar's Palace and decided we could slow down, now that we were there. *and here's the moment* we walked up the side walk a little ways and stopped. If you've never seen the front of Ceasar's Palace it has tall tree's, I'm not sure what they're called but I'd say the tree's you think of when you picture Tuscany...and there are little pools of water and a little lighting and well it was just a beautiful spot. And he kissed me. And maybe it didn't last very long but for that moment I'm pretty sure time stopped and we were the only people in the world. It was my most magical, movie like moment I'd ever had.
And just a side note* I text him the next day, on the car ride home, and said that I was ready to marry him. :)

Blog 2

A photo that make's you happy.

Once again, I can't put pictures on here from my phone. But one that comes to mind is....any of Jake and I and any of Kyler. I might have to add pictures later...so check back in awhile.

Day 6

Blog 1

A picture of the last item you bought...

Well, I can't put pictures on my blog from my phone so I don't think this one's gunna happen. I'm not even sure what the last thing I bought was. We went grocery shopping yesterday but didn't buy anything too exciting. So I guess this blog isn't going to be too exciting either.

Blog 2

Whatever tickles your fancy

What does that even mean? Like what makes me happy? Ok...
Kyler. He makes me S-M-I-L-E!!! :)
Jake. He makes me giggle.
Music. I am a big fan of music.
The ocean. Who doesn't like the ocean?
Ice Cream. Always makes life a little sweeter.

And lots more! But I'll stick with those for now.

High Five, Day Five

Blog 1

Favorite Memory

October 4, 2010, in other words, being in labor with my beautiful baby boy. Most women probably want to forget labor but I really didn't have it too bad. If you want to read about Kyler's birth you can visit my other blog...jnacohoon.blogspot.com. I just loved that moment when he was actually here. I could see him, hold him, kiss him. And he was so perfect. I just couldn't get over it. Not too big, not too little. Just perfect and pink and automatically I developed a whole new level of love I never knew exsisted. And it grows more and more each day. I doubt I'll be as lucky with my next children but honestly because Kyler was so easy I almost can't wait for my next one. I thought pregnancy would be hard and although it had its unpleasant parts, the good out weighed the bad. I thought labor would be hard, and although it didn't go exactly as "planned", it was perfect. Everything went so well in the end and just knowing my baby would be in my arms at the end of it made it so much easier. I thought motherhood would be har, but I've found that it only gets hard when I don't have time to do the things I want and spend the time I want to with him. I love being a mom more than ANYTHING! :)

Blog 2

Favorite Quote

"It's best to think of how to carry your load, not how heavy it is."

and

"There isn't anything that happens that can't teach us something, that can't be turned into something positive. One can't undo what's been done, but one can use it creatively."

I can't remember exactly where these quotes came from but I think at least one of them is from a book by Madeline L'Engle.

Day Four (4)

Blog 1

Who you've been closest to, longest.

That's not a family member....hmmm...probably Michelle. She and I have known each other since the 4th grade. We weren't really close until Jr. High but have been pretty close since then. Of course we've had our in's and out's throughout the years but we always manage to stay friends and catch up every once and awhile. A few tid-bits from our friendship:
We are both short, which is always a plus :)
My full name is Alyssa Michelle. Her sisters name is Alissa. It just works.
We used to play store and sell just about everything in our rooms. We even had pretend money and made credit cards. Our store was called "Hurley", named after her dog. It was a very serious business.
We've always gotten along well. No big fights or disagreements.
We have always just somehow understood each other.
I love that even though we're growing up and making our own lives we don't forget about each other. And I dont think we ever will.

Blog 2

Favorite Book

I really like The Giver and A Ring of Endless Light. I like more teen fiction than anything else and growing up it was anything by Roald Dahl. The BFG. Witches. James and the Giant Peach.
I love to read but I am kinda picky. I don't like scary, mystery, too much detail, sci-fi, and I don't like much non-fiction, in general.
Harry Potter was pretty good but I still need to read half of 6 and all of 7. Also, I don't like reading whateveryone else is. That being said I haven't read Twilight and it took me awhile to even start Harry Potter.
Speaking of series...The Big Empty was a pretty good series but just a word of advice...don't start a series unless you are sure the library owns them all. Otherwise, it could cause a lot of anger towards the library and a lot of torture on your part, not knowing what will happen next. Yes, I speak from experience.

Third Day...

Blog 1

The parents

I have 6.
A mom and step dad.
A dad and step mom.
And a mother and father-in-law.

Blog 2

Favorite TV program

I don't have an all time favorite and lately I don't even have a favorite.
Some that I've liked in the past are:
Gilmore Girls
House
NCIS
Family Guy
Criminal Minds
Friends

I'm not really into TV. It's probably one of my least favorite pass times. I hate having the remote. I'd rather have someone else pick the channel.

Day 2, today...

Blog 1

First Love

Ice cream. Loved it since day one. When I was little I would say "I meam"
My favorite has always been vanilla because you can add anything to it, followed by mint chocolate chip. I love ice cream.

Fall Out Boy. My first love in music. It was love at first listen. I don't like their newer stuff as much because it has a different feel to it. (I blame Ashley Simpson for giving it a pop feel.) They were my first obsession. I joined their fan club. Wanted to marry Pete Wentz. (Still love him, even if he is with Ashley. I guess it's only fair, I do have Jake, I can't expect Pete to be alone forever. Haha)

Alright, alright, I'll answer the question the way it was intended. But talking about past relationships isn't always fun.
His name is Kevin and although he was my "first love" he was not meant for me at all. Anyone that met him would know why. I'm sure he'd get a kick out of this if he read it bit I'm banking on the fact that he doesn't even know this blog exsists.
Why was he my first love? I'm not really sure. I should have got out before our relationship started but teenage emotion is a little crazy. I will say he was nice at first. Then he joined the marines and his mean, manipulative side came out. And I guess I thought I couldn't leave....
And then Jake came along! And he rescued me! My knight in shining armor! And then I learned what it was like to love and be loved. And I couldn't be happier.
A lot of people thought Jake and I got married too soon but honestly it had to happen that way or it wouldn't have happened at all. I was so messed up from that relationship that getting married was the only way I could completely remove him from my life.
Jake was an answer to a lot of prayers. Not only mine but my parents and friends as well. Everyone but me could see how unhappy I was. I met Jake and it was like turning on the light in the darkness I had lived in for so long.
Jake showed me what it meant to love and respect each other and that it is possible to have a happy relationship and not fight all the time. Jake and I don't fight. We don't really have anything to fight over. He never disrespects me or says anything that could hurt me in anyway. He knows how to say "I'm sorry" if he does upset me in anyway and he'll do whatever it takes to make me happy. I am treated like the princess everyone told me I should be. And the very best part is that I get to spend eternity with him.

Blog 2

Favorite Movie

All time favorite movie: The Princess Bride
Who doesn't love that movie?

Recent favorite: What Happens in Vegas
So funny, so cute.

Favorite Disney: Meet the Robinson's
I love that movie lately

Favorite "kid" movie: Ramona and Beezus
Cutest movie ever.

Favorite when I was little: Beauty and the Beast and/or Aladin
Beauty and the Beast was the only one we owned for awhile but I loved it and Aladin turned into my new favorite. I wanted to be jasmine when I grew up. I mean I knew she wasn't real, I wanted to do her voice. I would practice all the time.

30 Days X2...Day 1

*for BIRD...I know, I know, the titles aren't right lately but I think I've decided to only use them if they really fit. Otherwise I have to go way out on a limb to make one work. Ok, now on to the blog!

I see a lot of "30 days of blogging" on people's blogs and it looks kinda fun so I guess I'll join the crowd. I doubt I'll be able to blog everyday so it will be more like "30 blogs where I write about the thing the list tells me." Since there are so many out there I couldn't decide which one to do. So I picked two that I liked that don't really require pictures. I might add pictures later, when I have a working computer. I'm going to do both lists at the same time to get it done faster.

Day 1, Blog 1...

Introduce Yourself

My name is Alyssa and I've been married 3 1/2 years to the most amazing man in the world. This month, on the 18, we will have known eachother for 4 years, but it seems a lot longer. We have the cutest 6 month old baby and I couldn't love anything more than him. I live in Utah and I always have, except the year I lived in Evanston, WY. I come from an amazing family with 4 parents and 7 siblings. I have a best friend named Jennifer and I don't know what I'd do without her.I am a perfectionist who is still learning that nothing can ever be perfect. I easily hide the person I really am underneath what I want people to see. I have a fantastic memory that is sometimes more of a bother than a blessing. If you ask me I will be honest with you, unless it's something that could hurt your feelings. I am a people pleaser, to some extent. I wish I could be friends with everyone and be just as close to people that have moved out of my life as we were when our friendship began. I have a hard time saying goobye and a hard time meeting new people. I'm shy at first but once I open up you won't be able to shut me up. I don't go to school but I love it. More money, more time, sign me up! I hate confrentation and arguing. I hate war and fighting and if I had one wish it would be...world peace. Ok, maybe not but it sounded good.

Blog 2

Your Favorite Song

This is a HARD thing to answer. There are new songs everyday and new things going on in my life all the time. It would be almost impossible for me to pick. I love music a lot, a lot! So I'll pick a Few favorites...

The first one that comes in my head as an all time favorite is:
How to Save a Life by The Fray

I just love it. Love the piano, love the singing, love the lyrics, love the band, love it.

Hmm...maybe that wasn't as hard as I thought it was going to be. Yeah, I think I'll just leave it as that.
Done and done.

Some poetry from my past...

Life Happens

We met and all my fears were left in the dark.
We met and I noticed how much you really care.
We met and my life was put on hold.
We met and my other thoughts vanished in an instant.
We met and I knew you were there to lend an ear.
We met and all I know is peace.

Life happens, change takes place.

Life happens, but forgiveness is the key.
Life happens, our paths in life are changing.
Life happens, we can only hope for the best.
Life happens, we wish to end up in a better place.
Life happens, wondering what the future will be.
Life happens, and I only notice when I want to.

Life happens, and I notice, only when it is close to my heart.

That was a "found poem" I wrote in high school. It is made up of lines I pulled from some of my other poetry and writing projects.

End of the Road

Life is a road, twisting and winding.
Making its way through all the experiences.
Some roads are short and go but a small distance.
Other roads are long and go "up hill both ways".
No road is the same as another.
Yet all our roads cross at some point.
We head towards the horizon.
Not knowing when we'll reach our destination.
Many roads end suddenly, without warning.
I want to be on the road that goes on forever.
The straight path is easiest.
The ones that turn are more fun.
Don't ever think you're too tired to go on.
Think of the adventures that lie ahead.
We cannot know where our road will lead us,
Only hope it ends up in a good place.

This next poem is one I wrote on September 11. It describes how I lived that day...

America the Beautiful

Eighth grade science and the teacher is late.
He comes soon after with a look of hate.

The students all question his look of fear,
Then wonder why our teacher has a tear.

He turns on the TV to watch the news,
We see the policemen and firemen crews.

One building's been hit and we see the flames.
Then listen closely as our teacher explains;

"The Trade Center's been hit by a man no one knows..."
Looking back to the TV, we watch as the other tower goes.

We go to our classes and the emotions the same,
Reality's sinking, this is real, not a game.

Some years later and the emotion's still strong.
It's sad that this war has gone on for so long.

America the Beautiful, our country will always be,
We're no longer "invincible", that's easy to see.

More poems to come later...

...Thus striking a blow on all evil and making this world a better place to live in.

Part II
Last week we went back down to the house to finish cleaning up and get it ready for our new renters. We left early Tuesday morning and got there a little after ten. Jennifer came with us, which was a huge help. It was good to have an extra set of hands to clean and help watch the baby.
We started with the kitchen. Jennifer scrubbed the freezer and then started on the stove. Little did she know that would be a 3 day project. Who knows the last time it actually got cleaned. I started on the microwave. I'm still not sure how it took me so long to clean such a small space. Jake started by patching all the holes in the walls.
I'll skip all the little details but lets just say I had never been so thankful for gloves and having worked in housekeeping for almost 5 years.
I am so proud of Jake. He painted the entire house in 1 day. He steam cleaned all the tile and ripped out all the carpet. He is such a hard worker. I'm so thankful to be married to a man who knows how to work hard and get the job done.
Jennifer was supposed to be back to work on Thursday but lets just say I had a little bit of a meltdown when we went back to the hotel to pack up on Wednesday night. We had so much left to do and I felt horrible having to leave Jake there to finish. I was also having a hard time dealing with the fact that Jake and I have been together almost 4 years and since about June of 2007 we have not been apart over night. I was going to have to drive back without him, unpack without him, go to bed without him, and wake up without him. My anxiety level was a little high and Jennifer decided my sanity was a little more important than work. I'm so grateful for that because even thinking about it now I know I would have lost it if we had left that night.
We did leave Thursday afternoon, before Jake but knowing he was only a few hours behind me I was OK. The carpet came in that day and I couldn't be in the house with the baby so there was really nothing else I could do.
Jake said he felt like he was on a home make over show where they finish at just the last minute. The family moving in were still driving and wouldn't get there til late so someone in their family agreed to get the keys from Jake. Whoever it was was had seen the house before we started cleaning and Jake said they were in shock with how amazing it looked.
After all our hard work we're really just hoping it pays off. We need good renters who pay rent and I think we might actually have that now. (Fingers crossed) Now if we could just get the $2000 from the people who still owe us. (That's not including the $3000 owed from our first tenant. We have pretty much just decided we aren't ever getting that.)
Do Not Become A Landlord If You Don't Absolutely Have To

You Forgot Your...Thingy!

Our day went like this...

In the hotel room>

"Jake, I'm being serious here. I need you to try your very hardest to remain calm."

"I know, I am expecting the worst so I'll be ok."

Drives over to the house> "Try not to punch any walls either, it wont help, you know."

Opens front door>

"Oh. My. Gosh."

Jake filming with our home camera>

"Oh, gross. Don't breathe." "This is nasty!"

Pan of living room> Pee stained carpets. Trash bags strewn about the room, trash falling out. A couch in the middle of the room. The arm rests are destroyed and there is 'couch fluff' everywhere. The cushions are all crooked. A lone side table. A large, older model, TV in front of the couch. Uneven blinds that are scratched and broken from the dog scratching and biting at them. A tall bookshelf full of random items.
"Those blinds used to look nice."
Walk into the dining room and kitchen. Jake opens the fridge>
"Close it! Ah! What did you do that for? Are you trying to kill me? Its bad enough with the dog pee smell."
"Yeah, my bad."
Walks out to patio after struggling to get the sliding door open.
"Pretty sure that handle wasn't broken last time we were here."
"Is that...?"
"Yes, that's a pile of dog poop."
Pan of patio> The built in barbeque (luckily still in tact). The garden, complete with poo piles, empty beer cans, an upside down lawn chair, and trash. An old futon bed. A Gatorade sales container. A rug. 3 half full trash cans and a dust pan.
Return inside house and venture up the stained, trash covered stairs. Bed room #1>
"Oh look, another TV."
"Sweet. And a basketball."
Pan of bedroom #2>
Lone mattress and body pillow. Small shelving unit with lamp. Large mirror. One yellow hanger and a trucker's hat in the closet. A pile of wires and a few pens.
Into bathroom >
"You know, the bathrooms not that bad. Not as bad as I thought anyway."
"Well they obviously didn't use Any of those cleaning supplies on the toilet tank."
Stepping over dirty towels in the hall way to see the laundry room, complete with 6 boxes of dryer sheets, a bottle of bleach, some powdered detergent, a red silk table cloth on the dryer top and lint piles and used dryer sheets everywhere.
"Yuck. We're going to have to clean the washer."
Bedroom #3
"Ewe."
"Well they left a dresser…sort of."
"Yeah...."
Walking back down stairs>
"OK, here's what we do. We get gloves and black bags and just start getting all the trash out."
"And smell good stuff. We Need smell good stuff. "
Go to store. Cart has the following: paper towels, bleach wipes, bleach spray, gloves, black bags, two spray air fresheners, toilet paper.>
Back at the house. Jake begins spraying the house with air freshener while Alyssa opens and puts on the gloves. Jake tackles the fridge and Alyssa starts filling trash bags.
A few of the treasures found throughout the day:
Canned food storage.
An empty vodka bottle.
A fishing real.
DVD player.
Box for a hookah glass.
Green, lace bra.
Numerous hygiene supplies.
Unopened Mary Kay products.
Blankets.
Towels.
Iron and ironing board.
Stray dishes.
Candles.
A scale.
Kitchen utensils.
Dog toys.
And all of the previously mentioned items plus some unmentionable items.
After filling an entire truck with a load of garbage and cleaning constantly, it still looks untouched.

And now we are on our way home from our lovely house in St. George. We will be returning next week to replace carpet, paint the walls and finish cleaning so that it is ready for our new renters. A nice family of 5 who has already paid the deposit and doesn't seem to have a problem with paying the rent. They aren't students who party and don't have a job and don't care how the place they live looks and don't care if they rack up late fees for not paying rent. They don't leave their dogs home alone for days and then complain to us that it is so dirty its unlivable. Since when is it the landlord's job to clean the house? I guess it wasn't enough that we have fixed the AC, heater, washer and dryer, replaced the fridge and water heater. Fixed the toilet and 2 doors. Got the carpets cleaned before they moved in. And put up with them!!!
Being a landlord is not fun in any way, shape, or form.
Look for "Part Two" after next week.

*untitled*

I'm like a bird, I only fly away
I don't know where my soul is,
I don't know where my home is
(and baby all I need for you to know is)
I'm like a bird, I only fly away
I don't know where my soul is,
I don't know where my home is
All I need for you to know is

Your faith in me brings me to tears
Even after all these years
And it pains me so much to tell
That you don't know me that well
And though my love is rare
Though my love is true

I'm like a bird, I only fly away
I don't know where my soul is,
I don't know where my home is
(and baby all I need for you to know is)
I'm like a bird, I only fly away
I don't know where my soul is,
I don't know where my home is

Let's Save Our Hallmark Moment...

F.R.I.E.N.D.

What does it mean? What is it? There are a lot of different kinds of "friends". It's a little crazy, really. Looking at my Facebook I realized I have quite the variety of "friends".

There are your best friends. You know, the one or two people you actually call your best friends. The ones who are always there for you. You can talk to them about anything and everything. You know each other so well you could be relatives and you hope you will always be best friends.

There are real friends. The ones you actually talk to and see in person on a regular basis. The ones you actually like hanging out with and even though you always have a good time hanging out, they aren't close enough to be called your "best friends".

There are friends-of-friends. These are the friends who you get along with and don't mind hanging out with but you probably wouldn't just call them up to hang out one-on-one. You only hang out when you all get together with the friend you met them through.

There are acquaintance's. People you know from other friends or family. You know, your cousin's boyfriend or your sisters best friend. People you have talked to once or twice but you wouldn't really call them a "friend".

Then you have the people you went to school with, worked with, and people who go to your same church. These people could be called friends but if people ask, you usually refer to them as "a girl I work with/went to school with/go to church with".

There are old friends. The ones you grew up with and even though you have both changed so much you can't stand each other you can't help but remember the good times so you keep in touch.

There are online friends, who you met in a chat room or randomly added you on Facebook or Myspace. People you have never actually met in person but seem pretty cool online.

There is family. People that are actually related to you so you would call them your cousin/sister/brother/etc. but they are still cool enough to hang out with, or you want to keep in touch so you keep them on your Facebook.

There are the "ex's" who you are either friends with either because you really are (not likely truthful) or you just get along and don't mind remaining in contact with...or you just want to keep tabs on them.

There are the "you're not really my friend or any of the above mentioned but I'm a nice person so I'll pretend I like you". Which is pretty self-explanatory.

There are people you used to be friends with but then something happened like a stupid fight or someone "dissed" the other one so you're mad at each other but both too stubborn to admit you're fighting or one of you was in the wrong. So you remain enough in contact with them (whether it be a phone number you just can't delete from your phone or a friend you can't delete off Facebook).

There are probably a lot of other sub-categories for friends but I think I've covered the basics. So next time someone calls you friend or you say someone is your friend...do they really mean it? What do they really mean?

By noon or one...by 1:37 exactly!!

I'm a little bit ocd and a lot-a-bit a perfectionist. Everyone has their own weird little quirks but last night, while making my dinner, I realized I might have more than most. Just while making a simple scrambled egg sandwich I found 8 things that I have to do.
1- the eggs have to be completely cooked. I don't like them runny at all.
2- no white parts in the egg. I like my eggs completely mixed together so I don't have to eat just the white parts.
3- I'm afraid of the crumbs in the butter. I can't put butter with even a couple crumbs in it on my toast, it freaks me out.
4- my bread/toast cannot touch the counter. Even if I just washed it. Has to be on a plate!
5- I like my egg sandwiches cut down the middle but every other sandwich I like diagonally.
6- I only drink milk with egg sandwiches. Anything else would be weird.
7-I can't reuse my glass. It can be refilled with milk but even if I rinse it out I don't think I could drink anything else out of it. If the glass had water in it and then later I needed another drink I would have to rinse it out twice. Once is not good enough. (Jake learned this one pretty quick and now is so sweet to always rinse my glass twice.)
8- I have to look at and carefully inspect the food before it goes into my mouth. No surprises. I actually realized this one more tonight while watching Jake eat rocky road ice cream. He just scoops and eats while being completely focused on the TV. I could never do that. When I pointed out to him that this seemed crazy to me, not knowing what goes into his mouth, he responded with "and need I remind you about the crumbs?" Yes, I fear crumbs, ok!

8 'weird' things that associate with one meal. Sad really. I could probably go on for days about all my little quirks but just for fun I'll list a few more that I have.

- my hangers have to be ALL white. No wire. No color. No wood. White.
-my clothes are in color order in my closet. (I'm learning to be ok when Jake puts them in the wrong spot. I'm just thankful my husband does laundry. I really can't complain.)
- my slippers might as well be my security blankets. You know when you were a kid and used to play "hot lava" by standing on the furniture and pillows and not touching the actual floor? Well kitchen tile might as well be "hot lava" because I refuse to walk on it without slippers, or at least socks. (Jake thinks its funny to leave me stranded in a room by stealing my slippers.)
- I don't push carts. Unless I have to. But I Hate pushing carts. They are gross for one but mostly I hate pushing them because its like driving a car on roads with no rules and other people can hear you if you yell at them for pulling out in front of you. I hate driving because of stupid people and I hate pushing carts even more because of stupid people.

What are these, caffine pills?

I couldn't sleep last night
My ears were ringing in my head
Best friends with the boogey man I may be better off here dead
I'm running on empty once again
Too tired for tears I dread
Sink deep into those magic dreams
While I blast off in my bed

And you know I've played it all in here
Where everyone hides their darkest shades of fears
And I threw my whole night down the drain
You know 'cause everyone says that I'm not the same
Since I changed my name

Three hours later and I'm staring at the ceiling still
Xanax does nothing more than calm the sleeping thrill
Turning the pillows round and round to find the cold spot for my head
Ah, bless my only friend

And you know I've played it all in here
Where everyone hides their darkest shades of fears
And I threw my whole night down the drain
You know 'cause everyone says that I'm not the same
And everyone turns tricks for fickle fame I feel my body's lost control
My knees get weak as I drift away
And it gets darker, darker
Dreaming's where I am

MIDNIGHT!

There's just no time anymore. No time for:
*blogging
*reading
*sleeping
*cleaning
*playing
and about a billion other things I want to do.
Ah, the joys of being a mom who works two jobs.

Yeah, I've got a little stress, but who doesn't? Being a mom isn't the easiest job in the world, but its also not the hardest. I LOVE being a mom. Love every single second of it. If I could pick one thing to do for the rest of my life it would be to be a mom. But being a mom comes with a lot of other responsibilities. Kids are expensive, for one. So as much as I hate it, I gotta work. Don't get me wrong, I love my jobs (one more than the other) but its hard to be away from my little buddy and its not very easy trying to take care of him at one of my jobs.
Lately, all of you Facebook -ers have probably noticed me being a little down. So let me open a little window as to why. And once again, I'm not looking for sympathy or anything. Just venting.
I'm a perfectionist. And although probably don't need to say anymore, let me elaborate. I like lists. I like schedules. I love plans and planning and I love it even more when things go to plan (who doesn't?). I like 8 hours of sleep and 3 square meals a day.
Now take all the things I love...and flush them down the toilet. I went from having a pretty good routine and being able to plan everyday in advance and the comfort and freedom of knowing how to do my job to two completely new jobs where I know very little. Once again I'm at the bottom of the totempole (how do you spell that?) at both of my new jobs and then lets throw a brand new baby into the mix. I have 2 days off. The one where Jake and I run all our errands and catch up on life and Sunday, where I catch up on sleep.
The moral of this story? Please don't worry if I seem a little "off". This new life is just taking some getting used to and eventually I'll be OK. But for now just know that I need to vent every once and awhile. (And as much as I wish it were all Just hormones and the doctor could just give me a pill and make it all better, its much, much more than that.) But I'm working on it and I know that I will eventually be OK with it all. But for now its OK to lose it a little every now and then.