This is my 39th post of the month. I think I've done pretty well keeping up my habit of blogging every day. I'm now banking 8 "vacation" days for the future.
Speaking of vacations, Carl will be spending next week in Long Beach, CA for a conference. We went with him twice last year for conferences in Long Beach. Now that Catherine has moved, I just don't see the point in us tagging along. Plus, Caleb would do better by not missing school for 3 days (it's a short week next week). I'm planning on going to the Y every day and taking the kids to the babysitter's at least one afternoon for a little respite for me. I'm not looking forward to spending the week without my spouse but I look at it as "earning" my girls weekend getaway. I also just found out that he's going to go to L.A. again in September for another conference (in addition to going to Vegas in April and September). His job is so demanding. ;)
Speaking of jobs, I'm trying to get more organized. I've got a craft room to clean up (constantly) and the bedrooms need help. I'd like to get a handle on things around here so I can work more on my Stampin' Up and craft show goodies. Maybe I'll set another daily goal (like blogging) and work on it for February. I'll think about it today and get back with you all, faithful readers.
Speaking of faithful readers, thanks for stopping by. I appreciate it.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Progress
The tree is still up but I made significant stocking progress while watching Miss America last night. You would think I would have been rooting for Miss Oklahoma but I found her completely uninspiring. Plus, her final interview answer? What a dud! I can't believe she won. I also had to fast forward (thank you, DVR) through her talent. After the first few lines of "You'll be in My Heart" from Tarzan (total musical theater styling--but crappy regional musical theater) Carl and I thought we were going to die. I was rooting for Oprah loving, tap dancing Miss Georgia. I watched her whole talent number (although not entirely impressed--even I know how to shuffle off to Buffalo) and I liked that she told Chris Matthews about Oprah's love life. Miss Texas was the 1st runner up. I think I had an opinion against her from watching the Pageant School special. If I hadn't seen that, I think I may have rooted for her in the end. Because you know, my opinion and who I root for matters in all of this.
In other news...both of my kids wore pants all day yesterday. I took pictures to prove it. Sure, I could have just put pants on them to take the pictures so it doesn't really prove that they had pants on all day. But, I think most of you know that I am too lazy to do that so I guess it does prove that they had them on all day.
Not only were they wearing pants but they were accessorized! Eva had on some sunglasses and Caleb is sporting not one, but two cell phones! If you can't tell, he's letting us all know that he's FOUR!
Monday, January 29, 2007
Caleb's FOUR Today!
Caleb is having an excellent birthday today. We've celebrated all weekend. These pictures were taken on Saturday. I made his cake in my little mini springform pans that I got free from the Calphalon store next to the Oprah show. The plate was made just before his 1st birthday at All Fired Up in West Lafayette, IN. I made one for Eva, too, right before we moved. If we ever get another kid I'll have to find a new place to make my plates! We're having cake again tonight (chocolate) and his best friend, Spencer, is coming over.
I'm sure they will have a blast playing with this toy that Grandma and Grandpa Greer picked out. *While Caleb was not wearing pants when we took this picture on Saturday, he is wearing pants today* We're also giving him his little mini trampoline tonight. Eva picked out a t-shirt for Caleb that says "Ladies Man". Oh boy, is that the truth. I think he scares some of the little girls in his preschool class. When he gets off the bus he tells them that he loves them. If they don't say anything back he says, "Say, I love you too!".
We went to his classroom this morning for snack time. Caleb got to wear a blue crown with all sorts of stickers and glitter on it. He's been practicing saying how old he is now. We worked so hard for him to learn to say that he was three and he really just mastered answering that question a couple of months ago. He's been mostly right today. I'm so proud of him!
He's looking forward to having some more cake today. He calls it "birthday cake me out to the ballgame". Good stuff.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
O Christmas Tree
I still have the Christmas tree up. There are still some presents underneath it (opened, of course). Last year at this time our tree was still up as well. I think we took it down on Valentine's Day or Easter. I remember it was one of those holidays. We've had plenty of opportunities to put it away already but I'm holding out. Why?
I NEED TO FINISH EVA'S STOCKING!
If I don't finish it before I put away all of the Christmas decorations, the chances of it being done for next Christmas are pretty slim. I've been working on it a little bit each night and I'm finally seeing real progress. I think I'll finish it before Carl leaves for his trip to Long Beach (Feb 5th).
Or, when is Easter this year?
Or, when is Easter this year?
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Eva's Hooded Sweater
I finished seaming up Eva's sweater and sewing on the buttons so today wasn't a total bust. It fits her like a dream! It's got a little pocket in the front. The pattern is a leaflet from Wendy/Peter Pan. While I was knitting I was thinking the pattern was a piece of junk but now that it is finished and it looks so great I'm beginning to forget about it. Still...I think the next one I make will have some major changes. There is really no reason for the raglan sleeves to be sewn in. It can easily be done in one piece. The yarn I used is Kaleidescope DK . It's a lilac colorway (I can't remember exactly what it was called and I don't have the ball band handy). I bought a few extra skeins in a denim color so I can make one of these for Caleb. There is an option for a zippered collar with no hood. I think I may do that version instead for Caleb.
Uninspired
I have felt very unproductive today. Saturdays are usually big "work" and/or fun days for me and today it has just been blah.
1. I didn't get dressed until 11:30am.
2. I watched about 2 hours of nonsense on MTV.
3. I surfed the web for some shawl patterns (haven't found "it" yet).
4. I drank 2 diet Pepsis.
5. I made a birthday cake for Caleb (it's Monday but we celebrated today so he'd have lots of time to play with his toys).
6. I haven't knit anything and this disturbs me. I did seam up a hooded sweater I made for Eva.
7. I went to Hobby Lobby to buy buttons for Eva's sweater.
8. We ordered chinese food for dinner. It was some of the best we've had in a while.
9. I helped Carl blow up this huge ball toy for Caleb (from his Grandma Greer).
10. I played Pyramids on the internet for 45 minutes.
1. I didn't get dressed until 11:30am.
2. I watched about 2 hours of nonsense on MTV.
3. I surfed the web for some shawl patterns (haven't found "it" yet).
4. I drank 2 diet Pepsis.
5. I made a birthday cake for Caleb (it's Monday but we celebrated today so he'd have lots of time to play with his toys).
6. I haven't knit anything and this disturbs me. I did seam up a hooded sweater I made for Eva.
7. I went to Hobby Lobby to buy buttons for Eva's sweater.
8. We ordered chinese food for dinner. It was some of the best we've had in a while.
9. I helped Carl blow up this huge ball toy for Caleb (from his Grandma Greer).
10. I played Pyramids on the internet for 45 minutes.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Lace
This time last year I was gearing up for the Knitting Olympics. In two weeks' time I made a gorgeous shawl. Remember it? Here it is at the medal ceremony. It made a poor showing at the State Fair (I blame the judges, of course!) and I forgot to enter it into the county fair! My Snowdrop Shawl is now living it up in Oklahoma with my mom.
I had so much fun making it, that I'd like to make another lace shawl next month. I won't have the crazy deadline like the Olympics. I'll give myself the whole month to finish it. I already have some yarn (the same I used for Snowdrop---100 grams of baby alpaca in ivory instead of red). What I don't have is a pattern.
I'm looking for something free (like the Snowdrop Shawl from the Yarn Harlot) or something I can download for less than $3.
This shawl is destined to be a county and state fair entrant. It will then be gifted to the person that I feel would appreciate it the most. Would you appreciate a hand knit shawl? Let me know.
I had so much fun making it, that I'd like to make another lace shawl next month. I won't have the crazy deadline like the Olympics. I'll give myself the whole month to finish it. I already have some yarn (the same I used for Snowdrop---100 grams of baby alpaca in ivory instead of red). What I don't have is a pattern.
I'm looking for something free (like the Snowdrop Shawl from the Yarn Harlot) or something I can download for less than $3.
This shawl is destined to be a county and state fair entrant. It will then be gifted to the person that I feel would appreciate it the most. Would you appreciate a hand knit shawl? Let me know.
The Artist Formerly Known as Big Apple
You all will thank me that I have no pictures to go along with this story.
Yesterday was a big day at our house. We were meeting a Special Education grad student from UNL for the first time. She's going to be working with Caleb for one of her classes. In addition to that we had Caleb's speech pathologist and one of the para-professionals from his school out to work on his program in our quest for me to gain "instructional control" (it's working!). All of this is supposed to take place during Eva's nap time.
Eva didn't nap yesterday. We tried. She was in her crib. I could just hear her playing and jumping around in there. When we were almost done, Linda (the para) asked if she could go and get Eva. She went in there and she called out to me that there was some fingerpainting I needed to take care of. Huh? She doesn't have any finger paints in her crib.
See where this is going?
Poop. All over poop. Stinky, gross poop. I got Eva into the bathtub and Linda gave her a bath while I finished up with the student that needed to leave. I don't think Linda was expecting to have to do that when she came over yesterday!
Yesterday was a big day at our house. We were meeting a Special Education grad student from UNL for the first time. She's going to be working with Caleb for one of her classes. In addition to that we had Caleb's speech pathologist and one of the para-professionals from his school out to work on his program in our quest for me to gain "instructional control" (it's working!). All of this is supposed to take place during Eva's nap time.
Eva didn't nap yesterday. We tried. She was in her crib. I could just hear her playing and jumping around in there. When we were almost done, Linda (the para) asked if she could go and get Eva. She went in there and she called out to me that there was some fingerpainting I needed to take care of. Huh? She doesn't have any finger paints in her crib.
See where this is going?
Poop. All over poop. Stinky, gross poop. I got Eva into the bathtub and Linda gave her a bath while I finished up with the student that needed to leave. I don't think Linda was expecting to have to do that when she came over yesterday!
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Vanity
I'm going to register the car today. I've filled out an application for specialty plates but I don't know if I will actually go through with it.
Faithful blog readers, what would you put on your vanity license plate and what do you think I have chosen for mine?
Faithful blog readers, what would you put on your vanity license plate and what do you think I have chosen for mine?
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Readers, Beware!
The curse of bad days is spreading through blog land. Heather started it. Then, Kerry. Is it truly contagious?
I woke up this morning and got dressed. I mentioned to Carl that I had an excellent night of sleep and that I didn't remember waking up even once. He felt the same way. Things were looking promising.
Then, I took Caleb outside to catch the bus. I told him to hold my hand so he wouldn't fall. I took a step. I took him out. Yep, I fell flat on my recovering coccyx. You betcha. I was whining to Carl when I came in and he said, "Well, now you have something to blog about". Indeed, I do.
I woke up this morning and got dressed. I mentioned to Carl that I had an excellent night of sleep and that I didn't remember waking up even once. He felt the same way. Things were looking promising.
Then, I took Caleb outside to catch the bus. I told him to hold my hand so he wouldn't fall. I took a step. I took him out. Yep, I fell flat on my recovering coccyx. You betcha. I was whining to Carl when I came in and he said, "Well, now you have something to blog about". Indeed, I do.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Get Your Train On
My trainer is getting switched, AGAIN! I never technically had any sessions with the second one (because of my broken and/or bruised coccyx) but she doesn't seem to have time to add me on to her schedule. That's okay. She's in charge of all the fitness programming at the Y and she gave me some other options and some good advice. This is what I'm going to be doing...
Total Body Makeover
10 Week Challenge
10 Week Challenge
Starting February 5th, I'll be competing (I can't pass up competition) with some other members at the Y to see who can earn the most points to win some services at a day spa here in town. Here is what the program includes:
1. Pre-Fitness Evaluation. I did this a couple of months ago before I started training. It will be interesting to see if I improved at all just from then.
2. Exercise Programming consultation. This will be a meeting with a trainer that I'll have throughout the entire 10 week session. The trainer will check up on me every two weeks during the competition.
3. Equipment orientation. I don't really need to do this again since I've already been through the orientation.
4. Nutrition Programming consultation. This is going to be the most important part for me, I think. I'll meet with a nutritionist and get a plan geared just for me (and my food preferences).
5. Mid-point fitness evaluation. We're going to have another fitness evaluation at 5 weeks.
6. Post-fitness evaluation. This one will be to measure success and determine the winner.
You earn points by completing workouts, following meal plans, improvement during fitness evaluations, inches lost, weight lost, body fat lost, etc...
I'm going to do this plan for the ten weeks and then use the rest of my personal training sessions after that. So, I will have some sort of trainer through June.
1. Pre-Fitness Evaluation. I did this a couple of months ago before I started training. It will be interesting to see if I improved at all just from then.
2. Exercise Programming consultation. This will be a meeting with a trainer that I'll have throughout the entire 10 week session. The trainer will check up on me every two weeks during the competition.
3. Equipment orientation. I don't really need to do this again since I've already been through the orientation.
4. Nutrition Programming consultation. This is going to be the most important part for me, I think. I'll meet with a nutritionist and get a plan geared just for me (and my food preferences).
5. Mid-point fitness evaluation. We're going to have another fitness evaluation at 5 weeks.
6. Post-fitness evaluation. This one will be to measure success and determine the winner.
You earn points by completing workouts, following meal plans, improvement during fitness evaluations, inches lost, weight lost, body fat lost, etc...
I'm going to do this plan for the ten weeks and then use the rest of my personal training sessions after that. So, I will have some sort of trainer through June.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Something Good
So somewhere in my youth or childhood
I must have done something good
I must have done something good
I'm totally feeling it today. We went to the Y this morning, had a nice lunch and then came back to put Eva down for a nap. Caleb and I played nicely for a while and then I gave him a choice:
Play with Nickjr.com or take a nap
Do you see where I'm going with this? He chose to take a nap.
Both kids are in their rooms. It's 3pm.
Okay, here comes Caleb. Darn it. It lasted for about 30 minutes. I'm not complaining! For a kid that hasn't taken a regular nap for 2 years, I'm grateful for the time I had.
Guess it's time to let him play on nickjr.com so I can have a few more minutes of peace before Eva wakes up.
Both kids are in their rooms. It's 3pm.
Okay, here comes Caleb. Darn it. It lasted for about 30 minutes. I'm not complaining! For a kid that hasn't taken a regular nap for 2 years, I'm grateful for the time I had.
Guess it's time to let him play on nickjr.com so I can have a few more minutes of peace before Eva wakes up.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Poppycoccyx
Remember the skating "incident"? It's been a fair amount of time and truth be told, my bum is feeling better. I don't rely on Aleve as much as I did in the past and today at church was the first time it has really bothered me in a week or two. I still am a little slow to get up from the computer chair or the couch but I probably don't use my donut as much as I should. It's hard to carry that thing around all the time. Anyway, I'm considering myself recovered enough that I'm getting back to the Y tomorrow for my workouts. I haven't met my new trainer yet so I'm hoping I'll be able to do that then. I've slacked off for long enough!
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Modular Knitting
Two months ago at our knitting guild meeting, we had a program on modular knitting. A lady in our group had written a pattern for a vest using the technique and I knew I had some yarn that would be perfect for a project like this. So, I started one. I finished it last week and I wore it for the first time today to our meeting.
I used Jo Sharp Silkroad yarn in 5 different colors. I love how they look together. I wish I was rich enough to buy enough of this yarn to make a blanket. But, the wool/silk/cashmere blend was just barely the right price at 40% off to make this!
I have some new knitting projects on the needles and one that will very soon be a finished object and can be modeled by the very experienced Eva.
I used Jo Sharp Silkroad yarn in 5 different colors. I love how they look together. I wish I was rich enough to buy enough of this yarn to make a blanket. But, the wool/silk/cashmere blend was just barely the right price at 40% off to make this!
I have some new knitting projects on the needles and one that will very soon be a finished object and can be modeled by the very experienced Eva.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Fashion Plate
Here's the latest picture from my fashion plate.
Kerry commented earlier that my kids hardly wear pants. If I took pictures of myself while I'm at home, you'd all see that I hardly wear pants too! When I'm changing diapers all day (I'm the only one that's potty trained) I don't feel like putting pants on and off. We do all get dressed to go out in public. I have my standards.
Anyway...my point is, when I saw Eva in this latest get-up (I had to help her with the second layer---she brought it to me from Caleb's room), I had to take a picture and post it on here. She's not only wearing one pair of pants, but she's wearing THREE! Here's the tally:
3 shirts
3 pairs of pants
2 pairs of socks
1 diaper
Thursday, January 18, 2007
International Knit Off 2007
Because being a State Champion knitter just isn't enough for me.
International Knit Off 2007
Bring it.
International Knit Off 2007
Bring it.
Videos
I was having a hard time embedding the videos into my blog today for some reason. I'm going to just post the links and you can watch them through YouTube.
Beat It
On this one Caleb is in classic form belting out the Michael Jackson tune.
I Got You Babe
Eva helps out on this one by providing her super dance moves and some backup vocals.
Enjoy!
I hope this works!
Beat It
On this one Caleb is in classic form belting out the Michael Jackson tune.
I Got You Babe
Eva helps out on this one by providing her super dance moves and some backup vocals.
Enjoy!
I hope this works!
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
The Next Level
It amazes me to no end that Eva and my sister Lisa have no genetic link whatsoever. With my sister it was fringe. She loved wearing fringe. Eva likes to look like a basketball star.
Last night Eva went into her room and came out looking like this.
Those are tights put on over her pants and then a pair of my "snow" socks on top of that. She has her shoes in her hand and tried to put those on as well but had little luck since my socks provided too much added bulk for them to fit.
And, now the "Cheese!" shot.
Last night Eva went into her room and came out looking like this.
Those are tights put on over her pants and then a pair of my "snow" socks on top of that. She has her shoes in her hand and tried to put those on as well but had little luck since my socks provided too much added bulk for them to fit.
And, now the "Cheese!" shot.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Photo Shoot
Eva's favorite accessories are our NBA headband and wristbands. We bought them a couple of years ago so Caleb could be a Harlem Globetrotter for Halloween. She doesn't want to leave the house with them.
Yesterday she came upstairs after dinner and had them on. I grabbed the camera for an impromptu photo shoot. I pointed the camera and said, "Smile!". These are the results.
Monday, January 15, 2007
On the Menu
I'm really excited about the dinner I am preparing for tonight.
It's from Rachael Ray's 365 No Repeat Cookbook (I think it's #115).
Jambalaya Burgers with Cajun Corn and Red Beans
It's similar to this recipe for Cajun Pork Burgers.
I'm making them with ground turkey and the recipe even calls for some shrimp on top. Yum-O.
For dessert I'm making apples wrapped in phyllo dough. I made a different RR recipe a week ago that used phyllo dough so I'm trying to use the rest of it.
It's from Rachael Ray's 365 No Repeat Cookbook (I think it's #115).
Jambalaya Burgers with Cajun Corn and Red Beans
It's similar to this recipe for Cajun Pork Burgers.
I'm making them with ground turkey and the recipe even calls for some shrimp on top. Yum-O.
For dessert I'm making apples wrapped in phyllo dough. I made a different RR recipe a week ago that used phyllo dough so I'm trying to use the rest of it.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
The End
Carl told me I had to go to church a little earlier this morning so I could get released from one of my callings. He said that they're trying to lighten my load since I seem to have my hands full. Unfortunately, my callings aren't as demanding as my "real" life and they can't really release me from any of those duties. But I must admit, as I was teaching the class for the last time this afternoon I started to feel a weight being lifted. I think it is going to help, at least a little bit. I still have my Relief Society job to keep me busy.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Cheapo Vegas
I found a really fun website called Cheapo Vegas. The reviews are hilarious to read.
Here's what they had to say about The Orleans:
The Orleans (Off-Strip)
Fantastic for the price. Every room is spacious, has big beds and a separate sitting area. We don't mean a crummy little table and dining chairs, we mean comfy loungers, maybe even a sofa to call your own. The bathrooms are decent, but not fancy. There is enough space to spread out, or lie against the cool floor when you think you're going to puke. A really neat touch is the little window in the tub/shower that opens to the outside world, so you can yell at people in the parking lot while you bathe. We usually yell, "Come on up, the water's fine!" Rooms have hairdryers. TVs are plenty large, for after you lose all your money and want to watch Judge Judy. These rooms aren't for people who hate frilly stuff because the rooms are awfully prissy. Rooms have hair dryers and irons. they also offer Internet hook-ups for those of us obsessed with our Fantasy sports leagues.
From what I've read so far this seems like it could be a contender. It's off-strip but there is a shuttle that will drop you off at the Barbary Coast on the Strip (right across from Celine). I've checked out a couple websites for prices and it looks like we can stay there for an average of $80-90 a night per room. They have a spa, movie theater, a bowling alley, and Air Supply will be performing there the days we're there. Come on, Wendy...Air Supply. It's a shame we'll miss Donny Osmond. He'll be there in March.
The Las Vegas Hilton has BARRY MANILOW! Their rooms are also much more expensive. But, they might be better and they are right on the Strip. Any place we stay is not going to equal the comfort we had in Breckenridge. But, there is a lot more for us to do in Vegas so the actual time spent in the rooms is going to be less. It looks like we'd average around $120/night at the Hilton.
Should we dream big? There's always The Venetian. They have an awesome spa, gondola rides, bathrooms as big as my first apartment, and shopping along the canals. You also have to pay over $350 a night.
Here's what they had to say about The Orleans:
The Orleans (Off-Strip)
Fantastic for the price. Every room is spacious, has big beds and a separate sitting area. We don't mean a crummy little table and dining chairs, we mean comfy loungers, maybe even a sofa to call your own. The bathrooms are decent, but not fancy. There is enough space to spread out, or lie against the cool floor when you think you're going to puke. A really neat touch is the little window in the tub/shower that opens to the outside world, so you can yell at people in the parking lot while you bathe. We usually yell, "Come on up, the water's fine!" Rooms have hairdryers. TVs are plenty large, for after you lose all your money and want to watch Judge Judy. These rooms aren't for people who hate frilly stuff because the rooms are awfully prissy. Rooms have hair dryers and irons. they also offer Internet hook-ups for those of us obsessed with our Fantasy sports leagues.
From what I've read so far this seems like it could be a contender. It's off-strip but there is a shuttle that will drop you off at the Barbary Coast on the Strip (right across from Celine). I've checked out a couple websites for prices and it looks like we can stay there for an average of $80-90 a night per room. They have a spa, movie theater, a bowling alley, and Air Supply will be performing there the days we're there. Come on, Wendy...Air Supply. It's a shame we'll miss Donny Osmond. He'll be there in March.
The Las Vegas Hilton has BARRY MANILOW! Their rooms are also much more expensive. But, they might be better and they are right on the Strip. Any place we stay is not going to equal the comfort we had in Breckenridge. But, there is a lot more for us to do in Vegas so the actual time spent in the rooms is going to be less. It looks like we'd average around $120/night at the Hilton.
Should we dream big? There's always The Venetian. They have an awesome spa, gondola rides, bathrooms as big as my first apartment, and shopping along the canals. You also have to pay over $350 a night.
Friday, January 12, 2007
Vegas, Baby!
Looks like we're probably going to Las Vegas. It's certainly not set in stone yet but we'd like to see what everyone else thinks. You're certainly not committing to anything by voicing your opinion. But, we won't change the place or the date for someone that is probably not going to come.
So far we have decided on Las Vegas from May 23-26. Everything we do on Girls Weeekend is optional. You get yourself there and pay for your part of the room. The rest of the time is yours. Want to go to a show? Fine. Prefer to spend all your time shopping. Good for you. Just want a massage and a kid free meal? Yippee. Want to spend all night at the blackjack table? We might want to have an intervention of some sort...
Anyway, spread the word and see who wants to join in the fun!
VOTE IN THE COMMENTS:
A. Count me in for Vegas! (are you 60% sure you're coming? 80%? 100%?)
B. I would go if it was someplace different.
C. I would go if it was a different time.
D. I'm not going but I want to vote.
So far we have decided on Las Vegas from May 23-26. Everything we do on Girls Weeekend is optional. You get yourself there and pay for your part of the room. The rest of the time is yours. Want to go to a show? Fine. Prefer to spend all your time shopping. Good for you. Just want a massage and a kid free meal? Yippee. Want to spend all night at the blackjack table? We might want to have an intervention of some sort...
Anyway, spread the word and see who wants to join in the fun!
VOTE IN THE COMMENTS:
A. Count me in for Vegas! (are you 60% sure you're coming? 80%? 100%?)
B. I would go if it was someplace different.
C. I would go if it was a different time.
D. I'm not going but I want to vote.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Mall of America
The Mall of America is in Minnesota. It would be a day's drive from Lincoln but from New Mexico, that would be a stretch! At least we'd have a car available if we choose to go there. There is an IKEA in Minneapolis, too. We would have the option of staying in a hotel at the Mall or we could make our trip be central to Minneapolis and take advantage of fun things to do there as well. There is a light rail service between the Mall and downtown Minneapolis.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Super Bowl Ads
Some friends of some friends (small world, eh?) are finalists in the Doritos Crash the Superbowl commercial contest. You can vote for their commercial (or others if you so choose) at this site.
VOTE FOR THE DUCT TAPE (or not).
VOTE FOR THE DUCT TAPE (or not).
Sales
I bought a little bit of yarn last night. Personal Threads is a store in Omaha that has a 20% off sale every year. I decided to go and check it out yesterday and see about getting some yarn to make some baby stuff. Behold, the Malabrigo.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Cards
I've been busy making some more cards. I was really bad about sending the Relief Society birthday cards last year. I ran out of the cards that were made before and I was really slow about replenishing my supply. This year I told myself that I would be better about getting them out on time. But...out of all of these cards, only one is actually for the RS. I'm going to be stamping some more tonight.
Monday, January 08, 2007
Noteworthy
Caleb is now a Sunbeam! He made it through his first Sunday in Primary without incident. I'm pretty confident he's going to love his new class and going into Primary for singing time.
Eva can finally be in the nursery without big brother around!
Eva can finally be in the nursery without big brother around!
Las Vegas
With so much to see and do, Las Vegas would be an excellent location for Girls Weekend. Acommodations are reasonable, fabulous food to be had (even not so fabulous cheap buffets if you're willing to risk it), all kinds of shows and shopping, etc...It's an easy day's drive from Rio Rancho, NM. From Lincoln, we can fly there non-stop for $59 each way but they only have flights on Wed and Sat. If we decide to do Vegas we may need to modify exactly when we go to fit that flight schedule. Otherwise, it's almost $400 to fly from Omaha anytime.
The weather should be nice (not TOO hot yet). Shows are going to be expensive if anyone wants to go to one. I will need to be kept busy so I don't play the nickel slots (ha ha, Shanna) at all hours.
Mary--can you blog about the virtues of Phoenix?
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Branson
I thought I'd highlight a couple of the options we have for Girls Weekend 2007. I'll start with Branson.
Branson is in SW Missouri in the Ozarks. It's a beautiful area with lakes and "mountains" (it's not Colorado) and lots to do. There are outlet malls, shows, restaurants, etc... Depending on everyone's budgets we could go super fancy (check out this link!) or economy.
Branson is 12-13 hours away from Rio Rancho, NM and 7-8 hours away from Lincoln. It's 14-15 hours from Christiansburg, VA but not at all too far from St. Louis if you were in the neighborhood, Hollie.
Where else can you see Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede, Spirit of the Dance, Chinese Acrobats, and Yakov Smirnov in such a short period of time?
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Girls Weekend 2007
I think it's time to start planning Girls Weekend 2007, don't you? You know you want to come. Here are the requirements:
1. Be a girl over the age of 18.
2. Pay your own way (or find someone to pay for you).
3. Be fun.
I think that's about it. We'll probably do it over Memorial Day weekend again.
Here you can read about last year's weekend. We had quite a good time, I must admit.
Where should we go? Here are some places that have been brought up so far:
1. Las Vegas
2. Branson, MO
3. Mall of America (in Minnesota)
4. Any place there is an IKEA.
Comments are open, as usual.
1. Be a girl over the age of 18.
2. Pay your own way (or find someone to pay for you).
3. Be fun.
I think that's about it. We'll probably do it over Memorial Day weekend again.
Here you can read about last year's weekend. We had quite a good time, I must admit.
Where should we go? Here are some places that have been brought up so far:
1. Las Vegas
2. Branson, MO
3. Mall of America (in Minnesota)
4. Any place there is an IKEA.
Comments are open, as usual.
Friday, January 05, 2007
Bloody Friday
The day started out innocently enough. I finished putting together my cards (the sample is in my craft post from yesterday) while Eva slept. I finished a load of laundry. I ate a leisurely breakfast. Once Carl left and Eva was awake---things went downhill. Fast.
The phone rang. I couldn't find it. So, I went to my room to use the speaker phone. In that time, Eva decided to use her new found door opening skills to go into my craft room. After I was done on the phone (car dealer making sure everything is okay and if I had gone to pick out my jewelry yet), I went to look for Miss Eva. The craft door was closed so I didn't think to go in there. I looked all around downstairs. I went back upstairs. I looked in the shower (one of her favorite places to hang out). I finally heard some laughing in the craft room. I opened the door and she was looking out the window at some squirrels. I looked on the craft table and saw a fully opened box cutter (it was closed before--I don't just leave open box cutters around!) with blood dripping off the handle.
What would you do in this situation? I kind of had a mini freak out. She wasn't crying so I knew it was either a little cut or it was so bad that she was in shock. I found the cut on her finger. It was bleeding like crazy cakes and she wasn't too cooperative to let me apply pressure. She soaked through a couple of band aids and pulled off a couple more before I found one made for finger cuts and put it on as tight as I could without making her finger fall off from lack of circulation. That seemed to do the trick. In between all the bloody band aids I called the nurse to see if there was anything else I should do (it really would NOT stop bleeding!).
She's perfectly fine but I have little bloody handprints in my craft room and all down the stair railing.
Things slowed down a bit and then Caleb came home. He's making up for the good times he gave us over Christmas. The party's over. He has been non stop aggressive for two days straight. This will explain why I'm locked up in my room right now blogging instead of downstairs with my family. Time for a break. Mommy's tired of wrestling a monster of an almost 4 year old all day. As soon as Carl came home I punched the time clock for at least an hour. If this is any indication, I've been limiting my consumption of Wild Cherry Diet Pepsi to a max of two a day. Today's already been a 4 Pepsi day.
Oh, and by the way, the phone was in the bread basket.
The phone rang. I couldn't find it. So, I went to my room to use the speaker phone. In that time, Eva decided to use her new found door opening skills to go into my craft room. After I was done on the phone (car dealer making sure everything is okay and if I had gone to pick out my jewelry yet), I went to look for Miss Eva. The craft door was closed so I didn't think to go in there. I looked all around downstairs. I went back upstairs. I looked in the shower (one of her favorite places to hang out). I finally heard some laughing in the craft room. I opened the door and she was looking out the window at some squirrels. I looked on the craft table and saw a fully opened box cutter (it was closed before--I don't just leave open box cutters around!) with blood dripping off the handle.
What would you do in this situation? I kind of had a mini freak out. She wasn't crying so I knew it was either a little cut or it was so bad that she was in shock. I found the cut on her finger. It was bleeding like crazy cakes and she wasn't too cooperative to let me apply pressure. She soaked through a couple of band aids and pulled off a couple more before I found one made for finger cuts and put it on as tight as I could without making her finger fall off from lack of circulation. That seemed to do the trick. In between all the bloody band aids I called the nurse to see if there was anything else I should do (it really would NOT stop bleeding!).
She's perfectly fine but I have little bloody handprints in my craft room and all down the stair railing.
Things slowed down a bit and then Caleb came home. He's making up for the good times he gave us over Christmas. The party's over. He has been non stop aggressive for two days straight. This will explain why I'm locked up in my room right now blogging instead of downstairs with my family. Time for a break. Mommy's tired of wrestling a monster of an almost 4 year old all day. As soon as Carl came home I punched the time clock for at least an hour. If this is any indication, I've been limiting my consumption of Wild Cherry Diet Pepsi to a max of two a day. Today's already been a 4 Pepsi day.
Oh, and by the way, the phone was in the bread basket.
Wierd
I got tagged by Amy at Some Call Them Sticks and Strings to do this meme. It's six wierd things about me.
1. I never attended second grade.
2. I can't go totally under water without plugging my nose or I'll gag and/or throw up.
3. I can pick up lots of things with my toes. They are very flexible. I can spread them out really far.
4. Whenever I see that the World's Strongest Man competition is on tv, I HAVE to watch it. Did anyone else see that an American (Phil Pfister) won this year?
5. I taught a high school subject that I never studied in school (I taught Spanish but took German in high school).
6. I'm addicted to Febreze.
1. I never attended second grade.
2. I can't go totally under water without plugging my nose or I'll gag and/or throw up.
3. I can pick up lots of things with my toes. They are very flexible. I can spread them out really far.
4. Whenever I see that the World's Strongest Man competition is on tv, I HAVE to watch it. Did anyone else see that an American (Phil Pfister) won this year?
5. I taught a high school subject that I never studied in school (I taught Spanish but took German in high school).
6. I'm addicted to Febreze.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Craftastic
I've been crafting hard this past week. Lots of knitting and stamping. Unfortunately, I'm spreading myself between several projects so they all take a long time to finish. These are just a few of the things I've been working on this week. 
This is the back of a cardigan using Lily Chin Chelsea yarn in denim. I have the left front done already. You can't tell from the picture but there is some cabling. The pattern is "Marnie" from the book Hot Knits.
I thought I might make Eva a hooded sweater. This is the beginning. As soon as I can get a pair of circs of another project, I'll be able to move it from these short straight needles. This yarn is Kaleidescope DK in Luscious Lilac. I bought this and some yarn to make on for Caleb with my prize money from the Nebraska State Fair.
This is a modular vest in the works. I got the pattern from a lady in the knitting guild I belong to. We had a little tutorial on modular knitting and she was wearing one of her vests. I had the perfect yarn for it! I'm using Jo Sharp Silkroad Aran in a multitude of colors that I bought at 40% over a year ago. It used to be my sweater, Sweetness but has now moved on to other things.
Here are the mittens I made for the kids. I still haven't sewn up the thumbs for Caleb's. I used Cascade 220 in Natural. They took me about 2 1/2 hours including the sewing. I used a free pattern found here. I'm going to use the extra yarn Carl made me buy to make up a few more pair for the Dulaan project. I can only assume the project is still going. If it's not, I'll save them for the hat and mitten drives we have around here.
Finally, I made some cards. I made 14 of these to participate in a swap on Splitcoast Stampers. Everyone participating chose a month of the year and made cards specific to that month. I'll get back one card for every month. I chose June and decided to make a wedding card. I'm really pleased with the way they turned out. The colors in the picture are kind of washed out but I didn't have anyone tall around (or a stable chair) to help me see the buttons on the scanner.
That's all the crafty goodness I have to share with you today. It's craftstacular. Really.
This is the back of a cardigan using Lily Chin Chelsea yarn in denim. I have the left front done already. You can't tell from the picture but there is some cabling. The pattern is "Marnie" from the book Hot Knits.
I thought I might make Eva a hooded sweater. This is the beginning. As soon as I can get a pair of circs of another project, I'll be able to move it from these short straight needles. This yarn is Kaleidescope DK in Luscious Lilac. I bought this and some yarn to make on for Caleb with my prize money from the Nebraska State Fair.
This is a modular vest in the works. I got the pattern from a lady in the knitting guild I belong to. We had a little tutorial on modular knitting and she was wearing one of her vests. I had the perfect yarn for it! I'm using Jo Sharp Silkroad Aran in a multitude of colors that I bought at 40% over a year ago. It used to be my sweater, Sweetness but has now moved on to other things.
Here are the mittens I made for the kids. I still haven't sewn up the thumbs for Caleb's. I used Cascade 220 in Natural. They took me about 2 1/2 hours including the sewing. I used a free pattern found here. I'm going to use the extra yarn Carl made me buy to make up a few more pair for the Dulaan project. I can only assume the project is still going. If it's not, I'll save them for the hat and mitten drives we have around here.
Finally, I made some cards. I made 14 of these to participate in a swap on Splitcoast Stampers. Everyone participating chose a month of the year and made cards specific to that month. I'll get back one card for every month. I chose June and decided to make a wedding card. I'm really pleased with the way they turned out. The colors in the picture are kind of washed out but I didn't have anyone tall around (or a stable chair) to help me see the buttons on the scanner.
That's all the crafty goodness I have to share with you today. It's craftstacular. Really.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
The Big Purchase
It's time to blog about the big car purchase.
As you all know, Carl doesn't like to spend money. Ever. Before we started shopping for a new car we agreed on a limit. We knew this limit would not get us anything too much better than what we had but we were hoping for any upgrade. We found a couple of things within our budget. We decided to see what kind of deal we could get on the 2005 minivan (with the highway miles). Carl stood his ground. They sent the big whigs in to tell us why they couldn't go down any further and we would be silly not to get the van at this price (it was $2600 under our previously agreed upon limit). We decided to wait until Saturday and go out and look one last time before making any decisions.
On Saturday morning I found a Buick Rendezvous. It's a 2002 w/ 81K miles. It had all the creature comforts I like but aren't really necessary. For example, I could change the radio station or the cd from the steering wheel (ooooh aaaaah). It's a super cute car and I love it. Carl drove it and we decided to see what kind of deal they would make. The came down to $3500 under our limit. Honestly, I had kind of resigned myself to getting the van (with nothing great about it except stow & go). But, once I realized I could get this for less money with all the extras I really like--I wanted it. Badly. We decided to go to a neutral setting and discuss our options. We went out for hot chocolate and I started to cry. A lot. Sobbing. I knew Carl wasn't going to get me the Rendezvous no matter how cheap it was. I even brought up the fact that it has a French name and he should like that. I was pulling out all the stops. I couldn't stop crying. I tried to tell him that I drive this thing every day and I would like some comfort. We only take it on trips once or twice a year (when we would need the stow & go most) and the Rendezvous would be just fine for that. I pleaded with him about the mileage even though I realized myself that the van's 100K was probably "better" than the older car's 81K. I tried to appeal to his cheapness. No go. We were getting the van.
I cried all the way to the dealership. It's not that I didn't want the van or wouldn't eventually like it. It's just that once I realized that I could get something that I really liked in the price range---I was denied. This blog post would have been very different had we just went ahead and purchased the van on Friday night and I had never seen that Rendezvous.
The van was ready for us when we got to the dealership. I didn't cry at all once we were there. It was out of my system. Plus, I realized something on the way there. With every car purchase that weekend, you got a $250 gift certificate to a local jeweler.
Mama's happy now.
*The van color is called "Magnesium".
*My pendant is an amythest and the earrings are peridot. I was very tempted to go over my $250 limit but w/ tax and everything I had to pay the jeweler only $3.56.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Snow Days
We had a good time in the snow this weekend. The kids loved it. We had to drag Eva in but her little hands were just TOO COLD! I have since made her some mittens so she should be able to last a little longer next time. I took these pictures on Sunday before it was done snowing. We got quite a bit and it is really pretty.
About the mittens, I made some for Eva and they turned out great. I started a pair for Caleb and I ran out of yarn before I started the final decreases on the second mitten. I was using up some of my stash wool (Cascade 220) and I didn't have anything else close to it. I mentioned to Carl that I could just rip out the 1 1/2 mittens and start over making them just a little bit smaller. Then, Carl said something to me that I don't think I've ever heard him say before.
"Just go and buy some more yarn."
Okay. No problem.
Okay. No problem.
Monday, January 01, 2007
Darn it, Fox!
We wanted to watch the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl this evening. Unfortunately for us, the Fox station here was experiencing technical difficulties. We've resorted to "watching" the game on Yahoo! Sports by refreshing the box score and play by play. We can only assume that the game was awesome. We were down 28-20 until late in the 4th quarter. We scored, got the two point conversion to tie it up. Then, we got an interception return for another 7 points. It was looking good. We almost turned off the computer. Then, with 18 seconds left Boise State scored a touchdown. They didn't go for the 2 points so they ended up with a tie 35-35. We scored in overtime so the final was OU 42- Boise St. 35. UPDATE: I turned off the computer and we turned on ESPN to see the highlights of our big win. Imagine my surprise when I see that Boise State actually won when they scored with the 2 point conversion from their overtime touchdown. Dang it all. And DARN YOU, FOX!!!
Oh yeah, Nebraska lost to Auburn. We got to actually watch that game.
Oh yeah, Nebraska lost to Auburn. We got to actually watch that game.
New Year's Meme
As a look back on 2006, I will copy what I've seen on a lot of other blogs and list the first few sentences of my blog posts from the first day of each month.
January: January 1st is almost over. I've had one whole day of this year to mess around and not work towards any of my goals. Yippee! My excuse? It's Sunday...a day of rest.
February: Last night I was sitting in my car in the parking lot of the realtor's office (we made on offer on the house in the country), and the Ghostbusters song came on the radio. Is it possible for anyone to hear this song and NOT turn up the radio? Or, is it just me?
March: Thanks to all of you that left such great comments and wrote to me by email as well. If you've been a regular reader of my blog for a while, you know that I've had problems dealing with the Frog for some time now. Things still aren't perfect but we've had such a great week here at Casa Nelson.
April: Frog has learned how to use the computer. It started out innocently enough.
May: We got to bed at a reasonable hour last night but for some reason the kids decided it would be "fun" to wake up at 3:30am. Not only did they wake up, they were WIDE AWAKE for 2 hours. Not fun.
June: Is it already June? Holy moly. Caleb went to his last day of preschool (for this school year, at least) today. Last night they had a little picnic at the park and gave certificates to the kids that were moving on to kindergarten. Caleb has two more years to go at this preschool and I can only imagine what kind of progress he is going to make. It was only 7 weeks ago that he started at this school and I can already see a big difference.
July: I'm blogging again from the public library today. Still no computer.
August: I took my items to be entered into the county fair yesterday. I was just about to fall asleep and I remembered something. I forgot to take my SNOWDROP SHAWL!
September: Here's a list of things I want and probably won't get for a while. Time to dream.
October: We bought a computer desk. It's not the one that I had posted that I wanted a month ago. Carl didn't approve. So, we bought a different one last night.
November: I went to Kansas yesterday with my two kids in tow. I was going to visit my friend Kerry (still blogless) that just moved there from Indiana. It's a three hour drive through four states (even though Kansas borders Nebraska---the best road takes me on a fabulous journey through part of Iowa and Missouri). We had to leave the house because Carl was working on the kitchen floor and it just wasn't in our best interest to be around.
December: Tonight is the big game. I'm really looking forward to it. So much so that I'm leaving my house today wearing an OU sweatshirt. This normally wouldn't be a big deal...but I live in Lincoln, NEBRASKA. My car has an OU alumni license plate holder. My van is CRIMSON! My oldest son was born at the OU Medical Center (Sooner born, baby!). I can't help but cheer for the Sooners.
January: January 1st is almost over. I've had one whole day of this year to mess around and not work towards any of my goals. Yippee! My excuse? It's Sunday...a day of rest.
February: Last night I was sitting in my car in the parking lot of the realtor's office (we made on offer on the house in the country), and the Ghostbusters song came on the radio. Is it possible for anyone to hear this song and NOT turn up the radio? Or, is it just me?
March: Thanks to all of you that left such great comments and wrote to me by email as well. If you've been a regular reader of my blog for a while, you know that I've had problems dealing with the Frog for some time now. Things still aren't perfect but we've had such a great week here at Casa Nelson.
April: Frog has learned how to use the computer. It started out innocently enough.
May: We got to bed at a reasonable hour last night but for some reason the kids decided it would be "fun" to wake up at 3:30am. Not only did they wake up, they were WIDE AWAKE for 2 hours. Not fun.
June: Is it already June? Holy moly. Caleb went to his last day of preschool (for this school year, at least) today. Last night they had a little picnic at the park and gave certificates to the kids that were moving on to kindergarten. Caleb has two more years to go at this preschool and I can only imagine what kind of progress he is going to make. It was only 7 weeks ago that he started at this school and I can already see a big difference.
July: I'm blogging again from the public library today. Still no computer.
August: I took my items to be entered into the county fair yesterday. I was just about to fall asleep and I remembered something. I forgot to take my SNOWDROP SHAWL!
September: Here's a list of things I want and probably won't get for a while. Time to dream.
October: We bought a computer desk. It's not the one that I had posted that I wanted a month ago. Carl didn't approve. So, we bought a different one last night.
November: I went to Kansas yesterday with my two kids in tow. I was going to visit my friend Kerry (still blogless) that just moved there from Indiana. It's a three hour drive through four states (even though Kansas borders Nebraska---the best road takes me on a fabulous journey through part of Iowa and Missouri). We had to leave the house because Carl was working on the kitchen floor and it just wasn't in our best interest to be around.
December: Tonight is the big game. I'm really looking forward to it. So much so that I'm leaving my house today wearing an OU sweatshirt. This normally wouldn't be a big deal...but I live in Lincoln, NEBRASKA. My car has an OU alumni license plate holder. My van is CRIMSON! My oldest son was born at the OU Medical Center (Sooner born, baby!). I can't help but cheer for the Sooners.
Happy New Year!
We're spending the day at home today. There's a fair amount of snow outside and it sure looks pretty! We took the kids out yesterday to make a snow man (more like a mountain) and realized that what they really need are new hand knit mittens. I made one pair last night and I'll finish the other during the Nebraska football game this morning. They should be ready to go outside again this afternoon. I'll post some pictures from yesterday and maybe today later on. The camera is downstairs and I don't want the kids to see me.
I've spent a fair amount of time in my craft room doing some organizing. We got the bed out of there so now I have more space to work with. Also, since the last time I organized in there I started selling Stampin' Up so I have more stamping stuff to deal with.
I haven't thought of any resolutions yet. I did a horrible job keeping last year's so maybe I'll just skip them this year. I guess I do have some things I'd like to work on this year. My roller skating injured bum is feeling well enough that I think I can call my new trainer and get started again. One goal I do have is that I'd like to blog every day. A blog a day. For me, I think that won't be too difficult. I may need to have some flexibility as far as being out of town and things like that. I could "bank" posts if I blog more than once a day. Hmmm. Maybe it would be better if I thought about my blog posts more before I just came to the computer and just sat down and started typing.
Enjoy the day! I'll be cleaning and rooting for a couple of football teams today. Boomer Sooner!
I've spent a fair amount of time in my craft room doing some organizing. We got the bed out of there so now I have more space to work with. Also, since the last time I organized in there I started selling Stampin' Up so I have more stamping stuff to deal with.
I haven't thought of any resolutions yet. I did a horrible job keeping last year's so maybe I'll just skip them this year. I guess I do have some things I'd like to work on this year. My roller skating injured bum is feeling well enough that I think I can call my new trainer and get started again. One goal I do have is that I'd like to blog every day. A blog a day. For me, I think that won't be too difficult. I may need to have some flexibility as far as being out of town and things like that. I could "bank" posts if I blog more than once a day. Hmmm. Maybe it would be better if I thought about my blog posts more before I just came to the computer and just sat down and started typing.
Enjoy the day! I'll be cleaning and rooting for a couple of football teams today. Boomer Sooner!
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