Mind Your Manners

New Blog!! :)

2010-01-24T23:15:00.000-08:00

I've finally started my new blog....follow me here!

I'll leave this one up for a little while, but will be deleting it in the next month or two...see you over there!

2010

2009-12-26T22:28:00.001-08:00

Considering starting a fresh, brand new blog in '10...will let you know. :)

breathe.

2009-11-11T22:15:00.000-08:00

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matthew 6:34

I spent a tough day worrying about the future.

Thinking of my dreams, Craig's dreams, our dreams.

How far out of reach they are.

A friend of mine had this posted on her facebook.

God knows exactly what to say to ease my troubled mind.

today.

2009-11-11T12:33:00.000-08:00

{ daizeychic at etsy }

kind of blue today.
want to be home.
{all the time}

someday...

2009-11-04T13:52:00.001-08:00

i want to have a super blog.
you know...
the kind that has all the ads...
every post gets like a bazillion comments...
the kind where i will get book offers for my funky recipes
*and craft ideas*

wouldn't that be grand?

{and for your entertainment...a bunny with a pancake on it's head}

tagged.

2009-11-02T21:40:00.000-08:00

If you are reading this, you've been tagged. Copy these questions and post the answers in your blog. It's a bit cheesy, but a time waster (if you're looking for one).

1. Where is your cell phone: in my purse...I lose it throughout the day numerous times...2. Your hair: is frizzy and hasn't been getting the daily styling attention it needs...it must be getting tired of ponytails. I would die to have this gals hair...I love her style (especially clothes...this pic does not show her cuteness!) 3. Your mother:
is awesome and has a beautiful heart...and she's a hottie and doesn't even know it :) 4. Your father:
has dimples just like mine and gets as politically charged as Craig.

5. Your favorite food:
pizza...hands down. 6. Your dream from last night:
I barely slept last night...not enough time to dream. Been dreaming of tornados lately...hmm 7. Your favorite drink:
Diet Coke/Pepsi/Mt. Dew. If we aren't talking calories though, I love Chai Lattes (with maybe a pumpkin twist), hot apple cider and this time of year, start cravin' the egg nog :) 8. Your dream/goal:
to be the best wife and mommy I can be. 9. What room are you in:
dining room/office
10. What is your hobby:
I love to bake (which goes on hiatus with dieting), decorating...especially for the holidays, making little things, trying to make people feel special and just enjoying my simple, lovely little life. 11. What is your fear:
anyone I love being hurt or in pain.

12. Where were you last night:
chillin' with my hubs 13. Something you are not:
a liberal
14. Muffins:
are so yummy...i like the tops the best. I always save it for last :) ...but to clarify I'm not a fan of my own muffin top...grrr!

15. Wish list items:
a Wii, a house, a baby, an amazing work from home be my own boss job (for when I have those babies), and happiness for everyone :)

16. Where did you grow up:
Albany, OR

17. Last thing you did:
kicked Craig's butt at Dr. Mario...and then farmed on Farmville :) 18. What are you wearing:
my way to big Old Navy pjs, Boys & Girls Club t-shirt, and OSU fleece.

19. Your TV:
is old, and I want to get a new one...with my wii. I have big dreams :)

20. Your pets:
I love my kitty :)
I also want...a mini-kitty :)....

21. Your friends:
are amazing. I am blessed.

22. Your life:
is a bundle of sweetness
23. Your mood:
anxious...been anxious a lot lately :P

24. Missing someone:
Craig...he was really sweet today and now he's sleeping....I feel like I didn't see him much today.

25. Vehicle:
camry 26. Something you’re not wearing:
a tiara

27. Your favorite store:
today...it's Target <3...as>28. Your favorite color:
i can't pick a favorite...i love them all :) 29. When’s the last time you laughed:
today :)

30. When’s the last time you cried:
This morning (anxious/anxiety...nothing really bad happened...i'm just a crazy girl)

31. Your best friend:
has such a beautiful heart. :) I love him. 32. One place you go over and over:
to see Ellie :)

33. One person who emails me regularly:
mainly work people...even if it's just fun mail :)
34. Favorite place to eat:
at home, when it's warm and cozy.

35. Where do you want to be in 6 years:
Still growing and going wherever I'm supposed to be.

halloween baking.

2009-10-28T16:10:00.000-07:00

Some fun & yummy treat ideas for Halloween.

Look for links under the photos for recipes, etc. :)

Owl & Hypto-swirl cookies from Bake It Pretty.

Spider Cupcakes from the Martha Tombstone Cookies from Sunset Magazine Peanut Butter Popcorn from the Kitchn The Classic Caramel Apple by Paula Deen

dread.

2009-10-18T22:39:00.000-07:00

i know i have gained weight. i know.

i don't think i can get on the scale for a week. i need to diet & exercise, then weight myself so the bitter truth won't be as difficult to swallow.

i have enjoyed myself. a lot.

even though we did a great deal of exercising with what's been happening with weight-loss...I don't think that's going to cut it for maintenance.

since before the wedding i was having a difficult time losing weight (or even a difficult time not gaining), i'm worried my last 2 week "off my diet" regimine has kicked my rear.

i really wish i could take 3 - 6 months off of work and solely focus on this and get this conquered.

i'm not really sure what to do...what direction to go. i'm thinking lots of fruits and veggies throughout the day and a lean protein dinner...and lots of exercise.

i am finding it difficult to find the motivation to do medifast.

kind of sad tonight. frustrated. disappointed and a little lost.

i hope i can get things going in the right direction.

so tired of even thinking about this.

i know i can do it. i just want to get it done already!

and back to reality.

2009-10-15T16:52:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful time with the wedding....the planning, prep, set-up, the wedding itself...everything!

But boy...am I glad my brain no longer is thinking rsvps, cake, who gets what, keys, fishing line...all of that.

The lovely Angela Cardas took some amazing photographs...

Thank you so much Angela!!

We just got back from a trip over to Black Butte Ranch and the surrounding area....loved it! We both have the same idea of a good time...lots of hiking/exploring, little bit of shopping, lots of eating and exercise.

Now I feel like life will get back to normal.

Go to work, come home, have time to actually do laundry and all sorts of little projects that have been set aside.

I am so happy to be married to my best friend. :)

die.

2009-10-07T14:58:00.001-07:00

I love these anthropologie shoes... <3

Perfect for fall :)

black butte.

2009-10-07T10:31:00.001-07:00

so ready. :)

halloween costume inspiration.

2009-09-24T20:29:00.001-07:00

A little circus, a little burlesque, a little Britney.
And Target had the BEST shoes...but I need black...and apparently they have black online....ooooo

so excited. :)

it's happening.

2009-09-23T12:27:00.001-07:00

feeling a little stress.

might go crazy.

apologies in advance.

lovely.

2009-09-22T15:01:00.000-07:00

love this.

(ok...sometimes, I get a little artsy fartsy/hippy on myself, but only when it's cute like this)

photo cred. Bluebird Vintage

pssst...

2009-09-16T21:30:00.001-07:00

{for those of you that don't know yet...Blackberry Junction opens Friday}

yay!

new moon.

2009-09-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

can't wait.

plaid love.

2009-09-13T18:56:00.001-07:00

My favorite fall fashion this year is plaid!! It's everywhere and better than ever. It's relaxed, country, but with the right belt and accessories...fashion forward.

Anthropologie - Banking Grounds Blouse.

I'm thinking with either a high-waisted thick belt.

Forever 21 - H81 Plaid Ruffle Woven Top Forever 21 - Heritage1981 Gingham House Dress....say with a belt and leggings...oh yes. :)

Forever 21 is awesome, and I just found out they have a plus size line. That's helpful for these Junior sized stores!
Nordstrom - Love Squared Lace Trim Plaid Blouse

I so want a fall plaid dress...

elsie's hot tip.

2009-09-12T18:55:00.000-07:00

Miss Elsie Flannigan posted on her blog a shop she stopped by in Chicago...Renagade Handmade.

It's so great! I'm absolutely dying for this "Ah, Nuts!" print by Too Many Suitors.

Die.

This definately makes me miss screenprinting. I have got to clean my screen and get goin' on some art!

i die.

2009-09-09T09:47:00.001-07:00

The Rachel Zoe Project has got to be my favorite show right now!
It makes we want to be glamorous, play with clothes, hair makeup. and SHOP!

I adore every person on this show (even Taylor....with out that 'tude for everyone to roll their eyes at...we'd be missing something)
Brad...love. :) Bowties absolutely have a new stylistic respect from me.

These sunnies are bananas :)
I so hope that this season is longer than the 5 episodes last season. Since it's began, I've been pouring through Vogue and InStyle. Even Craig is enjoying it...even though I think he's enjoying all the pretty girls in the magazines. But he made a point to tell me that the only girl pictures he has in the truck are me :) He does make me feel beautiful and glamorous.

So...if you see me wearing some funky clothes, sporting some red lipstick & hats, please forgive me...I have become a Zoe-bot.

so ready.

2009-08-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

I am stoked.

I am orange.

makeup love.

2009-08-20T22:55:00.001-07:00

I am definately digging this Yves Saint Laurent Eyeshadow palette I found on Sephora.com5 Colour Harmony For Eyes - 6 Garden of Eden

Thinking I'm going to make my pre-wedding Portland trip next weekend...yay! Washington Square here I come! (and maybe....just maybe a little side trip to Ikea for pure relaxation) :)

Switchin' it Up.

2009-08-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

My weight loss has slowed to practically zero over the last couple months.

It seems like when I hit that 30 lb mark or so (I'm at -36 now) :), my body seems to become so used to the diet I'm on, the loss just haults....or slooooows to a crawl.

My goal is to be down 50 lbs by the wedding, but I can't do that if I'm loosing 5 lbs every two months.

SO...
I'm switching it up....saying goodbye to Medifast (for the time being) and heading to Atkins.

I decided I would give it a shot to see if it would give my body a weight loss jump start.

I was right...down 2 lbs in 2 days. I'm hoping that this keeps up. Even for 10 lbs in 3 weeks or so. And then return to Medifast if it slows down.
I have got to tell you....it has been really nice eating lunch with a fork and actually feeling full.
Medifast taught me sooo much on portion control and how much food I actually need to run my body efficiently. Also how CRITICAL it is to get your water!

I'm also taking a fiber supplement while on Atkins, to make sure I am getting that nutritional component of my diet (which helps assist weight loss).

Wish me luck...I am feeling so much better 36 lbs lighter (80 lbs lighter than my heaviest!) that I want to keep going.

Oh...and exercise is a must!

birthday giveaway!

2009-08-07T22:06:00.000-07:00

The fantastic, talented, beautiful, sassy, darling Anne is having a super giveaway in honor of her upcoming birthday! Her blog is great! Super inspiring and lovely. A must check out!!

{wow Anne, you got my out of my 2 weeks of no blogging...I'm blogging again baby!}

fabric flowers and baby kitties.

2009-07-17T22:50:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Martha Stewart.
Since I'm trying to be a DIY bride (for fun and thriftiness) I have been looking at alternatives to fresh flowers.
In the Martha's current issue of Weddings, she highlights Laurie Cinotto of Tacoma, Washington. Laurie creates flowers from cotton, linen and crepe paper.

On lalalaurie.com, she documents the making of her bouquet for the Martha. Love! :)

On her etsy page, she has bouttonieres too...This deer, gingham and button one has me revisiting the idea of the boys wearing them. Perfectly "jessica."...yes, jessica is a verb around here :) Craig knows what I mean.

So, this lovely ladies etsy shop and website were fabulous. I found a link to another blog with a super duper cause.
I'm not sure if she runs the blog, or how she is involved exactly, but makes me want to adopt.

The Itty Bitty Kitty Committee
They foster adorable baby kitties and find them homes in the Tacoma/Seattle area.

{My heart is melting. I think I need to drive to Seattle.}

headbands & baby girls.

2009-07-10T11:09:00.001-07:00

Headbands are the best way to dress up a bad hair day...{I need to get some}

I am loving this crocheted headband from

The Bungalow on Etsy

These are definately on my list if I every have a baby girl on the way...she is going to be dudded up!! I found this one on Banner Boutique
to go with her tutu...
drinacat

my achin' back.

2009-07-05T20:47:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Craig and I headed to Winchester Bay to the dunes.
He rides atvs...I don't.

I love that he does. I think it is definately part of his "hot factor."

I would love to be good at it...problem is. I'm a chicken.

Craig was of course a genius with the fire.

The only other photographic evidence of where I was this weekend, is Craig's friends attempting weelies in Paul's Rhino.

There was minor success. :)
Unfortunately, the entire weekend I was plagued with a bad back. It hurt to get in and out of the car and walking around on sand didn't help. The only relief I got was laying on the air mattress for awhile. I'd go a couple hours and have to lay down again.

{I am thinking a doctor's trip is coming up. Barely walking...not working.}
I love camping. I love tent camping, but I'm thinking that I would love to find an old Airstream Trailer and re-decorate the inside, while Craig polishes the outside. To have a toilet with me would make all my {camping} heart desires come true :)

{If anyone happens to know someone selling an old Airstream...pass the info along}

Happy 4th of July!!

2009-07-02T14:56:00.000-07:00

4th of July always makes me want to bake with (and eat) berries and whipped cream...well, cool whip.

Hostess with the Mostess (last year) posted some great recipes.

4th of July also means that SUMMER IS HERE! And more days of sunshine ahead. yay!

Have a great weekend with friends and family.

Take time to really appreciate and be grateful for our wonderful, amazing, stupendous country :)

I'm definately proud to be an American!

{yee-haw}

pottery barn love.

2009-06-25T11:01:00.000-07:00

love this. i want to be here right now....I will put this in my list of dream house stuff for someday :)

hmmm.

2009-06-18T22:01:00.001-07:00

i think i just might.

i never buy myself treats, but i might....
of course the $99 one...not the new one. :)

wild strawberries.

2009-06-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

I love the wild strawberries that grow on "the ranch."

My goal, over the next few days, is to pick enough I can make Craig a pie...or maybe a mini-pie.

This is definately a project...they are itty bitty!

Maybe if I'm super good...I will let myself have this treat. It's a pretty responsible treat when done right :)

Click here for Martha Stewarts Icebox Strawberry Pie...looks Delish! :)

craig's celebrity look-a-like of the week.

2009-06-17T16:06:00.001-07:00

Mr. Kenny Chesney
(not really a weekly thing...don't worry)

cravings.

2009-06-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

I want...

I get...

they tell you it's going to be like this...

(as you can see...it is not)
BUT...

I want to be like this...

not this...

so I know what I gotta do...

anthropologie love.

2009-06-11T21:23:00.001-07:00

I am starting to love clothes again. Anthropologie is my fave.

I only wish it wasn't so $$$!!

I cannot wait for the next 20 lbs to be gone...the fashion world will be mine! :)

can't stop.

2009-06-09T15:04:00.000-07:00

I can't stop going, going, going. I feel like I should have kids in sports. I feel like I'm running around all over the place. I need to stop. I'm tired.

Here are a couple pics of where I've been going....My beautiful mama and I at Ladies Night Out at the BGC of A! (I had to change it to black and white becasue I was a lovely glowing red color from the sun earlier) :)

The crew at the Middle School Blast from the Past Dance....we are missing a few fabulous members, but we look pretty hot none-the-less. Gotta love Amy's "wings."

There have been other things gone, mainly in the name of wedding(s). I am looking forward to Saturday. I am keeping my calendar clear. I feel like I haven't seen Craig in forever! :) After tomorrow's dinner event at work, the rest of the week will be downhill. (yay!)

slow and steady.

2009-06-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

So, I don't want to get into the habit of this being a weightloss blog, but I hit a milestone this morning...yay! down 30 lbs!

I am so ready to keep this up. It has been slow and steady. The healthy average of about 2 lbs a week. Weight I'm going to keep off. And let me tell you, slow and steady adds up!!

The weightloss slowed in the middle of May and I was frustrated, but I busted through that plateau like a champion and we are rolling again.

4 months until wedding.

I've gotta get hot!

(Craig and I have a little friendly competition going...he wants to look hot for the wedding too! Maybe I need to wager a little bet) :)

grown-up treat.

2009-06-02T19:32:00.000-07:00

So Cute...love.

These would be so fun for a summer bbq....
Check out Hostess with the Mostess for the recipe.

quails n' bunnies.

2009-06-02T19:22:00.000-07:00

I got to say, I have absolutely LOVED having my lens (nikon 55-200) on my camera, so I can check out the little buddies we've got hanging around.

(Thanks again Mom and Dad!)

I love quail. I love their hair-do and how pudgy they are :)

and of course. I love the bunnies. I don't have a garden right now, it might be different if I did. I seriously turn into a 4 year old when I see one...."BUNNY!" (and I clap my hands).

I like their tails, but that is near impossible to get a picture of...they are FAST!

End of Month 3.

2009-05-31T15:19:00.000-07:00

I have got to say...time is flying.

I just finished my 3rd month of Medifast.

For a diet program/lifestyle change, it has been really do-able.

My monthly goal is 10 lbs a month and I'm shy about 2 lbs for this month. I am not complaining at all! It was a hard month to get going and the back half of the month my weight started moving again.

So, my goal was to be at negative 30 lbs by today and I'm at 28. That's a pretty darned good percentage if I do say so myself.

Today, I'm tired, bored (since I've been go go go at work and now it's slowing) and really wish it was 10 degrees warmer.
I'm craving "out to dinner." Mexican. I'm thinking it's a celebration day and I will allow myself this luxury...no margaritas though....talk about loaded calories!! :)
Tomorrow back to devoted dieter. I have a wedding to get hot for...not to mention for what I purchased yesterday! YIKES! :)
I am thrilled...the fabulous Angela Cardas is available to be our wedding photographer (speaking of which...I need to email you Angela!)...she did our great engagement pics...

I started Medifast the day of our engagement shoot...or the day before.
28 lbs heavier does not seem that long ago.
p.s....kam, those are my saggy butt jeans :)
I would take a picture of me today, but I look like el crap-o and sprucing myself up sounds like way too much energy.

Laters :)

target love.

2009-05-21T16:21:00.001-07:00

this would go perfect with my apple green walls & red mixer :)

($14.99)

duely noted.

2009-05-21T09:44:00.001-07:00

Craig stated that you couldn't see the ax in my previous post.

Here is the ax-man. (um, don't get too close)

a couple pics from home.

2009-05-20T16:31:00.001-07:00

My kitty...chillin' with me while I was hanging out in the sun.

Craig was pretty excited to get rid of the yicky mattress.

A bunny that hangs out at our place...he's got a hurt ear :(

(Craig took the bunny pic)

You gotta love a man with an ax. :)

I love my weekends.

bubble tea.

2009-05-18T16:19:00.001-07:00

Is bubble tea good?

I kind of want to try it, but I'm kind of scared.

I think you can get it in Corvallis?

lovely blog.

2009-05-15T13:21:00.000-07:00

I found an absolutely lovely blog that I found this picture on...if you love unique, design, art, fashion, you've got to check it out...Design is Mine. I love it!

Craig is being super supportive of my creative abilities lately.
He is dead-set on me entering something in the Benton County Fair. So cute.
He was demanding (in a nice way) that I paint something, take a photo, draw with oil pastels...he didn't care, he just wants me to create :)
I love him.

So this weekend...I am preparing for my new artistic adventures. I am going to try not to be afraid and have fun with it. (I sometimes am afraid because I can be fairly critical, and don't know if I can "live" up to my standards).

I think this weekend. I will create my space. I was thinking of going creamsicle...bright pop of orange on 2 walls and white on the others. I should probably use the paint I have first though...a dirty pale blue...that might be nice. :)

I'm excited.

glittery goodness.

2009-05-14T15:57:00.000-07:00

These make me so happy.

I decided to check out the Rue 21 website (the new store in the mall).

I haven't been there yet, but plan to go for work's 8th grade dance "Blast from the Past." These super fabulous bracelets were so my favorite when I was a kid. They are definately on my list.

mobile home remodel.

2009-05-11T13:33:00.000-07:00

Maybe Craig and I should just remodel the mobile home.

Totally Kidding... :)
This is actually a "green" mobile home and probably costs a ridiculous amount. You can power it all for a dollar a day. I saw it on yahoo's homepage.

Yesterday was so fabulous. Craig and I spontaniously began gutting out all of our junk...boxes, a mattress, etc. I can't believe the room we have now...my Christmas stuff actually fits in the closet! Throughout this week I'll be doing some deep cleaning. If it was warmer I'd rent a carpet cleaner, but that's a summertime job in my opinion.

Next step...get rid of the 1987 couch...this is also a summer job. It's so big we have to take out our front window. :) I will be so happy when that day comes...maybe we can burn it. :)

Retro Chairs

2009-05-11T10:38:00.001-07:00

I saw these on the Farm Chick's blog today.

I absolutely love everything retro (well...not everything will be allowed in my house, but there is definate appeal).

I think I might just have to make a trip to Lowe's to pick up a couple.

Hopefully they come in red :)

creepy crawlies.

2009-05-08T15:47:00.000-07:00

I just got into a battle with this guy.

I won.
But now I feel like they are crawling all over me.
Yick.

p.s. he was only like an inch and a half long. This picture is way scarier...which kind of freaks me out. :)

link fixed.

2009-05-07T18:13:00.001-07:00

Ok...link fixed to i heart shoes' blog.

Totally my fault, I had it in there wrong :)

i heart shoes blog!!

2009-05-07T15:47:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone!!
My sister's shop has started a new blog! Please add her to your list and start following her :)
She will have updates on merchandise and sales...and specials you can only get by checking out her blog. She'll also have some style and fashion tips.

Remember how important it is to shop local and support our community.
It's a difficult time, and these little shops need support.

the eights.

2009-05-05T21:14:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by the fabulous Miss Anne (correction...Mrs. Anne) :)
from Indefinately Definate.

It's the *8* things post!

8 Things I Look Forward To...
#1.) Seeing Craig's smile :), hugs, kisses
#2.) Weekends!!
#3.) A real meal at the end of the day!
#4.) Hangin' with our moms & dads
#5.) Watching Ellie freak out
#6.) Being Craig's wife.
#7.) Doing little art/home projects
#8.) Cleaning out a bunch of junk *hopefully this weekend*

8 Things I Did Yesterday
#1.) Washed my hair
#2.) Went to work
#3.) Drank lots of water!
#4.) Went to Winco on the way home
#5.) Got trapped in the Winco parking lot by the cart-picker-uper...in a downpour.
#6.) Gave Craig his Blueberry Eggo Waffles :)
#7.) Talked with Craig about cakes, future stuff and were silly with the exercies ball.
#8.) Made a super duper omelette. (that was good for me!)

8 Things I Wish I Could Do:
#1.) Make my sister not upset & feel better
#2.) Loose all my weight overnight :)
#3.) Be a mommy.
#4.) Have a successful graphics business...small, but makes enough money I can stay home with my babies when I'm a mommy.
#5.) Eat pizza.
#6.) Make sure that my friends and family have no hurt or pain in their lives.
#7.) Have a craft room.
#8.) Surprise Craig with an awesome house I had secretly custom built. :)

8 Shows I watch:
#1.) American Idol
#2.) FOX News
#3.) Intervention
#4.) Family Guy
#5.) Ax-Men
#6.) Anything HGTV
#7.) Anything Bravo
#8.) Anything We

Those are my 8's.
My turn to tag....YOU!Come on, you know you want to!Here's the rules, just in case you want to follow them:

1) Mention the name of the person who tagged you.
2) Do the lists of 8.
3) Tag 8 bloggers of your choice.

My tags:
Sunny over at Haynes Our Way
Susanne over at PaulaDeanWannabe
Missy over at "Miss"Understood
Kambria over at {TheNextBestThing}
Maxine over at Mamaof3ds
ok...I'm cheating...i'm tired and going to sleep :)

4) Let them know that they have been tagged!

rustic cake stand.

2009-05-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

I found this on Once Wed and I love it.

I love "rustic chic" and I think this would be perfect for little cake at a little wedding in a barn.

It looks super easy and inexpensive to make...check out the picture tutorial below...

Craig told me last night he wants chocolate cake at our wedding and he wants like 30% more than you need because he wants lots of cake.

I'm thinking cute little round cake (like above)...and we can have some monster New Morning Bakery chocolate sheet cakes in the back....and some vanilla...that's my favorite!

home inspiration.

2009-05-03T15:07:00.001-07:00

Since it's probably going to be a little while until Craig and I get into a house, I'm collecting ideas that I'd love to have in my home someday. Not all will happen, but it's fun to daydream.

The Martha has a fantastic idea in her April 2009 issue of Living to customize an Ikea dining chair.

With a little paper, glue, exact-o and sealer. You can create a chair to fit your decor and personality. I absolutely love this paper. They refer to Print Icon for paper, but I can't find this pattern. :(

love.

graphics freak.

2009-04-30T16:18:00.000-07:00

So since we are getting closer to nailing down the wedding date, I have been dreaming of invitations. I loooove invitations and I want to design ours.

I was thinking it would be super cute to find a cute deer sillouette.

Have it really woodsy, cute, country.

I seriously was thinking about this just today.

Then I went to i-do-it-yourself.com and voila...there were these...

I love this little deer. I was thinking of a solid red heart somewhere rather than the flower.

Ahh, I am so ready to get designing on these suckers :)

The girl who did these invitations was designing them for her wedding. She signed up for a letterpress class! I SO wish we had that around here.

Letterpress is amazing!

Yay!

progress.

2009-04-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

Since I see myself everyday...I thought I'd do a side by side at what losing 20 lbs does.

I look and feel so much more comfortable.

I cannot wait for the next 20 lbs!! :)

Seriously though...I couldn't do it with out the love and support I get from my family and friends.

I love y'all!

Middle School Dance tonight...ugh.

Going home for a long break...yay!

1st milestone.

2009-04-24T10:44:00.001-07:00

There is this much less of me since March 1...Yay!

I told myself I couldn't try my first wedding dress on until I lost 20 lbs. And I've done it! :) The scale was actually trying to stay on 21.

I don't know when I'll shop. Don't know when our wedding will be.

I want to know...so I can shop.

A bit frustrated, but FREAKING HAPPY that I'm on my way to a hotter, healthier me :)

Have you ever heard the song...

2009-04-23T16:36:00.000-07:00

"Yo Mamma Smokes Crack Rock"

I sometimes absolutely adore my job.

I'm not going to get into the story, but the gals I work with will totally get this. :)

Downtown Tour & Wine Walk

2009-04-23T10:38:00.001-07:00

This looked like fun...I can't make it (heading to the coast with some good friends), but I thought I would share.Friday, May 1, 4-8 p.m.

Go to albanydowntown.com for more information.

(I know this is kind of hard to read) :)

Finger Monkey.

2009-04-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

So...I believe this is the latest craze in "little pets"

A Finger Monkey!

It's real name is a Marmoset and it only grows to be about the size of a Coke can and weighs about a pound. I think they are soo cute! I don't think I really would want one, but I had to share!

They are not cheap...averaging about $3000 bucks. Yikes!

(And they don't attack)

love.

2009-04-21T11:24:00.000-07:00

I so wish I had a reason to make these :) hostess with the mostess

sunday.

2009-04-20T14:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was such a great day...well besides a few "diet breakdowns"
Craig decided it was too nice to stay home, so he took me to lunch at Applebee's.

Then we headed to Peavey Arboretum to have a little hiking fun.

I didn't know that they had logging competitions there.

We stopped by Winco- got a few things.

Then went home.

We still decided it was too nice to stay inside, so Craig was a good sport and did a little bit of lounging in the sun on a blanket in the side field.

One of these guys tried to sneak up on us!...

After a bit Craig asked if I wanted to go for a little ride on his 4-wheeler up to the top of the hill. We chased a deer...It reminded me a bit of the whole Twilight opening sequence plus 4 wheels.
On the way back we stopped at the pond and watched for frogs. Craig caught one! He was itty bitty...I am so sad I didn't have my camera. I held him, but I am a typical girl that I squealed and dropped the poor thing when it moved just a little.

Overall..great day. :) Thanks babe!

yay!

2009-04-17T09:43:00.000-07:00

I cannot wait for the weekend and it's weather! :)

Susanne Tagged Me....

2009-04-15T13:35:00.000-07:00

So this tag is definately floating around. Susanne got me!

Once you are tagged you must take a picture of yourself right then and there....no primping.

so in all it's glory here is mine...

Reasons it's horrible:
1. Taken with my trusty phone
2. My eyes are killing me...red, scratchy watery, basically been crying involuntarily.

3. Hair is just hair...blow dry and go day.
4. Glasses... *according to Craig my Vermont Country Club Snooty Glasses...I really like that I am so blind my face behind my glasses does not line up with my cheek. lovely.

5. Fuzz balls all over this sweater...yuck.

6. Self-portrait ...you never know what you're gonna get :)

My tag victims...

Sunny

Kambria

Missy

Angela

and whomever else would like to throw yourself out there :)

60 lbs.

2009-04-14T15:07:00.000-07:00

So since my heaviest I have lost 60 lbs.

This has been over the course of a few years...so yes, I need to remind myself what I have accomplished....and that a pound here....a pound there truly adds up.

I wish I had a picture to post at my heaviest, but I have an almost halfway picture. I think the only picture I had at my heaviest was on my sisters computer and it crashed. I couldn't believe how I looked when I saw it after I had lost some weight.

(yuck...I hate this pic) :P
Here is a sort of now picture...do I have one?? Well this is from October...I've lost about 15 lbs since then.

Ok...so neither of these pictures are the most body revealing, but hey...I see a difference, and I think I look more "normal" here. :) I can't imagine what 50 more lbs will do.

I found this website where you can plug in the weight you lost or weight you need to loose and see how much it is in other "measurements." Here is my 60 lbs....

You entered 60 pounds (27 kilograms).
60 pounds is the average weight of a 8-year old boy.
How Much Fuel Is That?
To lose that amount of fat would mean to burn 210,000 calories or 878,640 KiloJoules! That is the equivalent of 6.83 gallons of gasoline. Humans, however, are far more efficient than cars, getting about 912 "miles to the gallon". If you could dump this many calories into the tank of a Honda Civic, you would be able to drive it about 230 miles before running out of gas!
Let's see how your goal would convert to other forms of fuel. 210,000 calories is equivalent to:
6.83 gallons of gasoline, or
75.04 pounds of coal, or
104.25 pounds of oven-dried wood, or
9.23 gallons of propane
This amount of energy would ...
Brew about 586 pots of coffee, or
Light a 60-watt light bulb for 4,068 hours ( 169 days = 0.53 years)
Cutting 210,000 calories is the same as saying "no" to:
2,625 apples, or
2,100 bananas, or
12,353 cups of cabbage (whew!), or
1,448 baked potatoes, or
2,625 large eggs, or
1,750 cups of 2% milk, or
151 pounds of ground beef, or
2,414 glasses of wine, or
650 Snickers bars, or
875 Clif Bars ( 1,167 Luna Bars), or
1,511 cans of Coke, or
1,235 pints of Guinness beer, or
427 Big Macs, or
408 Quarter Pounders with Cheese, or
300 Whoppers, or
636 Subway 6" Oven Roasted Chicken Breast sandwiches, or
1,235 Taco Bell crunchy tacos, or
894 slices of pepperoni pizza from Pizza Hut
What it Takes to Burn 210,000 Calories
To burn 210,000 calories, a 190 pound male would have to:
Backpack for 348 hours (14 days) nonstop, or
Walk for 805 hours (34 days) at 3 mph straight, or
Walk 2,414 miles (1,509 kilometers), or
Bike for 609 hours (25 days) at 10 mph, or
Bike 6,087 miles (3,804 kilometers), or
Play basketball nonstop for 335 hours 14 days), or
Play billiards for 972 hours (41 days), or
Go bowling for 811 hours (34 days), or
Stay on the golf course for 609 hours (25 days), or
Spend 271 hours (11 days) playing competitive football, or
Jump rope for 256 hours (11 days) straight!
You would have to walk the length of England about 4.03 times to burn 210,000 calories.

This definately puts in perspective what I've accomplished and *gasp* what I'm still going to accomplish :) It's a long road, but I'll get to the end eventually.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T22:53:00.001-07:00

one month down.

2009-03-29T12:39:00.000-07:00

After one month of the medifast diet, I am down 13 lbs. So happy.
I try not to think how far I need to go, just making slow progress with little milestones along the way. It's hard.
Everyone has been such a support to me...thank you!
(I can not even begin to tell you how bad I want a sugar cookie...but, I'm stickin' to it)

glutes.

2009-03-19T12:11:00.000-07:00

Ok...I want a sexy butt...who doesn't. I have been looking around for some great butt excercises (along with abdominal ones...YUCK) to help assist my body moving in the direction I want it to. I thought I would share a couple really easy ones that I found on prevention.com. I'm sure a lot of you have seen these before, as I have, but it's a great reminder...shorts...ugh, swimsuits are coming.

Lunge and Rise
Stand 3 feet from stair with a dumbbell in each hand. Step with left foot, placing it on stair and allowing right heel to lift off floor. Bend both knees and lower into a lunge, left leg bent, so knee is directly over ankle and right knee not quite touching floor. Shifting weight to left leg, push off right foot to stand, lifting foot and tapping it on stair. Step right leg back and repeat lunge. Do all reps, then switch sides.

Bridge Lift
Lie on back with knees bent, feet flat on floor shoulder-width apart, and arms at sides. Press into heels, squeezing glutes as you lift hips for 2 counts, forming a diagonal line from shoulders to knees. Extend left leg straight out in line with torso for 2 counts, then bend and return foot to floor, holding another 2 counts. Lower hips; repeat lift, extending opposite leg.

For more, just click on the link in the exercise title.

on my way.

2009-03-18T21:16:00.000-07:00

10 lbs gone! YAY!

This is hard. But worth it.

makeover and roses.

2009-03-15T15:34:00.000-07:00

I have been a bad blogger. Nothing really to blog about. Work is super busy, life is just chugging away....along with the dieting.

I've been slowly changing our bathroom. The challenge: orangish-brown linoleum, 1960s yellow shower, tub, toilet & sink and a faux marblish looking countertop. What to do?

I decided to stay in the warm family and went with an antique dirty red color. Wow...that's a lot of color! (and lots of coats!). I also added new drawer pulls & a stencil. Much better, but still need to get the new accessories thing goin' on and scrape some paint off the window. I'm also going to make a little curtain to hide our storage mess under the counter. Oh! And change that last drawer handle...I can't find the screwdriver!

Craig is so wonderful. He surprised me at work on Friday with a dozen roses. :) I love him :)

thankful.

2009-03-02T22:27:00.000-08:00

I am so happy to be on this journey I am on.

It's not easy, but I feel I am on the right track to getting to where I want to be.

Of course, I am talking about the battle of the bulge.

It feels good to be doing something about it.

I am so blessed to have so many supporters in my life.

Thank you all! :)

This morning began with good news...4 lbs down in 2 days.

I know I can't expect it to keep up at this rate, but to see it moving in the right direction after a month and a half of nothing is so great.

p.s. I am totally taking that pic if I get to a stomach like that!

day 2.

2009-03-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

Today is day two on serious diet plan no. 1.

I have to admit. I am hungry right now.

The food is really not too bad and I'm going to fill up on water until dinner.

I am so excited! Craig and I just finished our e*session with Angela Cardas, Photographer extrodinaire. She is so fantastic.

We are so excited and thrilled to have our photos taken by such a super gal! :) Thank you Angela.

summer shoes.

2009-02-25T22:47:00.000-08:00

oh I can't wait!

I can't wait for sandals and warm toes :)

Huaraches are back and better than ever!

These are by Enzo Angiolini "Muffin" Sandal

Love these ballet flats by Sigerson Morrison

These fantastically "Barbie" pink sandals are by Nine West.
I want these for when my feet are super tan! :)
Hogan, by Jessica Simpson

Oh, yes, I am so ready for summer.

simply fabulous.

2009-02-24T21:53:00.000-08:00

So, no one can replace the Vera, but I have found a fantastic new bridal designer.
Stephanie James Couture is my new favorite.

I absolutely love the vintage 50s look.

I die.

I'm not exactly sure about the price, but the Knot had $$$$ <--- 4 dollar signs...yikes!

Oh! And p.p.s. the amazing Vera Wang that Kate Hudson wore in Bride Wars can only be purchased at Helen Rodrigues in Austrialia.

(like I was going to get it anyway!) :)

:)

2009-02-23T16:16:00.000-08:00

Richard Perez

gocco crazy.

2009-02-20T23:57:00.000-08:00

I am so in love with these little gocco machines!!

They are like mini-screen print machines.
I absolutely adore printmaking since it was my second emphasis with my art degree. I miss it!
I would love to get one of these, but they cost a little $$$
Here are a couple etsy crafters that use their gocco to create some fabulous-ness!

Birdie prints by littlestflower

Invitations by UglyKitty (hmm, this is definately a thought...not the design, but the process) :)

Tags by ouou

another new beginning.

2009-02-20T13:27:00.000-08:00

Ok...the Atkin's thing has run it's course with me.

I have had literally a 2 lb success in 2 months.

I can't keep it up for that. My body is just not responding.

Craig has had success and I am so proud of him! He looks HOT! :)

So I am a BIG fan of not counting. I do not like diets where you have to be meticulous of counting points, calories, fat grams. I think about it too much when I do those, and simply lose my mind!

I'm starting Medifast.

It's a drastic cut in calories. The minimum you can take in and still be healthy.

There is no counting, nothing.

You used to only be able to get it from the doctor as a prescription (due to the low calories), but now they have approved it without (I don't know how long that's been, but new to me).
I am very excited. I think this could be it for me.

You get 5 of their "meals" a day...bars, soup, oatmeal, etc and then you eat a "lean and green" meal for dinner. Chicken breast and salad for example.
Looking at success stories (on their discussion board...not ads...and people that have done it locally that I know, or word of mouth) are EXTREMELY successful.

On average people loose 5-7 in the first week (normal for a diet change), but some loose up to 12, that would be AMAZING, but def not counting on it. The average after that is 2-5 lbs a week.

I ordered my first set last night. The lady I order it from has lost 39 lbs since August. (If you order it from a local "Health Coach" you get a discount).

So, wish me luck! I get my first shipment next week.

(and watch out around then...I may be a little cranky) :)

love.

2009-02-17T22:44:00.000-08:00

music.

we surround them.

2009-02-17T16:21:00.000-08:00

Do you believe in 7 of these 9 principles?

The Nine Principles
1. America is good.

2. I believe in God and He is the Center of my Life.

3. I must always try to be a more honest person than I was yesterday.

4. The family is sacred. My spouse and I are the ultimate authority, not the government.

5. If you break the law you pay the penalty. Justice is blind and no one is above it.

6. I have a right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, but there is no guarantee of equal results.

7. I work hard for what I have and I will share it with who I want to. Government cannot force me to be charitable.

8. It is not un-American for me to disagree with authority or to share my personal opinion.

9. The government works for me. I do not answer to them, they answer to me.

If you do, send your picture into wesurroundthem@foxnews.com

If you'd like more info check out Glenn Beck's site.

Also, he includes 12 values....

Honesty
Reverence
Hope
Thrift
Humility
Charity
Sincerity
Moderation
Hard Work
Courage
Personal Responsibility
Friendship

This is what it means to be a conservative.

a couple things i love.

2009-02-15T13:10:00.000-08:00

Acorn Birdhouse from Anthropologie

Owl Lamp, also from Anthropologie.

My new rug for the kitchen from Ikea. Craig picked it out :)

Ariat Fat Baby boots

Pink Heart Sunglasses from Red Velvet Art

Happy Heart Day!

2009-02-13T23:30:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

inspiration notebook.

2009-02-13T23:20:00.001-08:00

I got my lil' wedding inspiration notebook done. Now I have a place to put all those thoughts, instead of just rethinking them in my head :)

Now, if I could only get the groom talking, we'd be on a roll. ;)
Gosh, that one crooked ribbon is driving me nuts, I'm going to go cut it now :)

my lipgloss is poppin'

2009-02-13T22:11:00.000-08:00

So I went shopping today, on a mission to find fabulous tops. No such luck.

Well, I did find one, it wasn't on sale, so I couldn't justify it.

I may have to go back to get it. I think I will wear it with a little black cardigan and some black flats for Craig n' my pictures.

I did, however, remember to bring my empty MAC Cosmetics containers. If you bring 6 empty containers into them, you get a free lipstick. Well, I had 12! I got 2!! :) I got 3-D (my daily stick) and bombshell...a fantastic pale pink.

I also could not resist some new gloss...

MAC has teamed up with Hello Kitty for a new line. Love. Love. Love.

I got Nice Kitty. Totally bright hot pink and it's fantastic. I am seeing more and more the neon pink lipstick look (this isn't quite that intense).

I also got a new friend for an early Valentine's present. I love him. :)

You can't tell in this pic, but that little blue thing on his head...well it's wings to a honeybee :) love.

took the wind out of my sails.

2009-02-11T22:22:00.000-08:00

That's how I feel. Defeated.

Just going, going, going...positive! Yes!

Then bam, not what you thought.

I'm tired. A little lost. Definately frustrated.

Thank goodness Thursday is my Friday this week!!

I think I need a shoe shopping trip...or makeup...maybe Ikea.

These are fabulous...and I know just wear to find them :) With jeans...i die.

vera.

2009-02-09T22:32:00.001-08:00

a bit over the top.

love.

target love.

2009-02-08T23:15:00.000-08:00

This would shut my living room down. I die. I could totally make this work. {heart}

I love you Target.

amy atlas.

2009-02-08T22:50:00.001-08:00

Amy Atlas is simply amazing! I can't say much more than that! :)

If you are looking for some ideas for an event or party you are having check out her eye candy on her website. I die.

Also, another website I came across is Southern Weddings.

It's a new? wedding magazine.

I love this inspiration board they created...(sorry it's kind of pixel-y)

Now if only I knew where and when our wedding was going to be, so I can actually plan it, instead of getting too many different ideas in my head...ah!

not much happenin'.

2009-02-08T22:19:00.000-08:00

Hi All.

Not much is going on to share and I've been pretty uninspired to blog lately. To let you know that I'm still alive and kickin', I thought I would share a favorite font of mine :) For those of you that don't know, I'm a font freak! Yes, it's the designer in me. Speaking of which, I need to start using that creativity!!

Favorite font of the day....

Chicago House from dafont.com

I love dafont.com...so many great fonts for free...if you haven't checked it out...and are lovin' the fonts, you must go!

this made me smile.

2009-02-05T12:05:00.000-08:00

holy shoe sale batman!

2009-02-03T10:07:00.000-08:00

Here it is!!

I Heart Shoes is having their end of season sale!!

Boots and Shoes up to 50% off!!!

Hurry in today!

I Heart Shoes is located in downtown Albany in Flinn's Block

222 1st Ave W

If you have any ? let me know!!

kutless.

2009-02-01T21:56:00.000-08:00

I came across Kutless as I was wondering through Youtube.

James Mead, who plays guitar for Kutless, used to work at the Boys & Girls Club I work at. I remember his strong faith, even though he had a rough rocker look. I am so happy to know that he has been successful in following his dream in this band. They've been going since 2001.
A sweetheart of a boy also was in Kutless, Ryan Shrout. He was such a warm-hearted wonderful soul. He also worked at the Club. I believe I remember a performance by him that included "Leaving on a Jet Plane" at a talent show. He had to leave Kutless because he felt it was time to be with his family.

I wish both of these guys a wonderful future! :)

(Ryan is in front with the long hair, James is on the same side in the back)

just hand me my brush.

2009-02-01T09:25:00.000-08:00

Another weekend of painting. This weekend we are tackling the bathroom. We got 2 coats last night, but we need another. Red is a sucker!

And if anyone is curious...I paint like this kid. Whatever I am wearing is virtually guaranteed to be destroyed (including my hair and body)

Now I will be on the search for some decor for the bathroom. It's a LOT of un-interupted red.

Boot Sale!!

2009-01-29T15:23:00.000-08:00

Hey all y'all!

If you are looking for some fabulous deals on some killer boots....

I Heart Shoes is having a sale for 20% off all boots!

just mention you saw this on my blog.

Check out some of these cute styles...

A couple Jessica Simpsons...

super soft and comfy Rocket Dogs... And these from Betseyville...i die.
These look super cute with jeans too (and are VERY comfy!)

and p.s.....there will be an upcoming sale on other shoes coming up...I'll keep you posted!

they may be in michigan...

2009-01-29T15:17:00.000-08:00

...but this cake is so adorable! I had to share.

by Cake Nouveau

my lil' sis.

2009-01-27T21:50:00.000-08:00

My sister, Jen, is a super fabulous woman.

She is stylish, fun-loving and would do anything for her family.

She's getting married to the love of her life. :) He smiles like that all the time :)

She is super talented...(especially after a couple drinks, teasing...really she is more talented than she thinks). She's playing her own rendition of chopsticks above.

She's a bit of a diva, but completely humble.

And she is not afraid to get a little bit dorky with her big sis.

She is a beautiful girl, and doesn't even know how beautiful.

I loves you sissy!

yummy goodness.

2009-01-23T17:30:00.001-08:00

Happiness is...Reddiwip only having 1 carb per serving.

I am so happy to have a sweet treat, of course I can't down the entire can (which is entirely possible), but it gives me a little decadence when I need it. Rumor has it that they have a chocolate flavor...wonder about the carbs on that one.

This picture pretty much demonstrates the only effective way Craig can deal with my extreme moodiness lately. That and a Craig hug and kiss (that's my favorite).

So...here's to Reddiwip, allowing me, a meat and cheese eater, to keep my sanity.

My addictions!

2009-01-21T14:07:00.000-08:00

I am finally remember to do this...thanks girls!

I was tagged by Miss Susanne.

So these are 5 things I am currently addicted to....

1. Craig...always.

2. Facebook, Myspace & Blogs... of course!

3. Paint Chips

4. Craig's fleece pajama bottoms, his fuzzy socks and fuzzy blanket (I die, no pic available)

5. Decorating. I need to do this more, but I think about it constantly. I love.

i owe an apology.

2009-01-18T16:59:00.000-08:00

To Craig.

I have been a pill lately.

At the drop of a hat my mood can turn from great to bad.

I'm frazzled, at wits end and seems like when I want to have a pity party I have no problem digging myself into that hole.

I've been negative.

Thinking of all the things I can't have yet.

Frustrated with myself and then getting more frustrated and disappointed with myself for acting that way.

I know it bothers him when he sees me sad.

I'm so sorry babe. I will be better.

I love you.

I'm thinkin...

2009-01-15T13:13:00.000-08:00

I think I need to start a wedding inspiration binder. I am helping my sister a lot with her wedding for this August and Craig and I's...well who knows when. I need to start tucking stuff away because I am loosing things and not thinking straight.

I'm thinking something like Donna Downey's inspirations journals...

or an inspiration board...this one was from flickr.
I'm hungry. I want a... :(

giveaway!

2009-01-15T09:32:00.000-08:00

Miss Anne has a super cute giveaway! It totally makes me excited for all the cute Valentine's Day stuff. Make sure you check out her blog (if you aren't a rockstar follower already). She is amazing. Inspiring and such a sweetie.

Here is the LINK.

attn: pay it forward winners.

2009-01-14T09:40:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness. I am such a slacker sometimes.

I wanted to let my Pay It Forward giveaway winners (Anne, Angela, Kambria and Sunny) that I have not forgotten about you! :)

Things got crazier than I thought this year (primarily due to being stranded because of the snow). I am back on the mission and you should be hearing from me soon :)

P.S. on a good note my pants got a little tight over the holidays (thats not the good part), but this morning I put on one of the tight pairs and it is feeling more normal again! YAY! It's amazing what 5 lbs can do. (Remind me of this when I start griping) :)

currently...at my limit.

2009-01-13T16:16:00.000-08:00

I am completely unmotivated.

I have put all my energy into diet and trying not to drink diet pop (successful so far) that I have zero motivation for anything else.

Forget Exercise. Can't do it. Too tired.

Painting...no.

Thinking...borderline.

I seriously just want to go home, pull the covers over my head and sleep. How selfish is that?!