Never a Dull Moment

The Bomb Just Dropped!

2008-04-01T10:38:00.003-05:00

Okay...

First... I MISS BLOGGING!!! I think it is my form of self medication. I can't wait to do this again! Life has been happening and I can't wait to go on my vacation. I NEED IT!

Why??? Well... Let's just say the bombed dropped.

School, work, family and life all collided... The world just stopped... I FAILED MY FIRST TEST EVER... Lets pray for a curve... PUHLEASE!!!!

Failing in the graduate program is anything under an 80%... I have not been close ever (Even though I always say that I am going to fail or that I did...but didn't) Well... This time I did. 75% (I am biting my lip hard because the person behind me only missed three... THANKS FOR BLOWING THE CURVE HOPE!! UGH!)

More later! Miss you all!

PS... Did I mention that there are only three days left until vacation????

The Ultimate Blog Party...

2008-03-14T23:59:00.000-05:00

This post will stay here until the 14th... Please scroll down as NEW posts will and do appear below this one... Thanks for stopping by! Smootches to all of you and welcome to all the new visitors!

How cool is this.... 5 Minutes for Mom is hosting a blog party this week and prior to my little blogging break, I had decided to participate in this. What a great way to meet new people in the blogging world! I am going to host a party here on my blog for the next few days and am inviting you all to join in. I have to say that my past few posts help me with this great theme... Take a peek at my few previous posts to get into the party mood!!!!

I will do my best to showcase myself and hope to make some new friends while I party! Feel free to scroll though my blog and check out some of my previous post to get a good feel for who I am....

In a nutshell, I am a wife, a mother, a full time nurse and graduate student. Life is never dull and there is not enough quiet time in my household.

My household consists of me, the DH and our beautiful 3 1/2 year old daughter. We have a turtle named squirt that is being held captive and recently adopted a dog named Belle.

Please stick around for more moments in this NEVER DULL enough life!

The Bionic Hamburger

2008-03-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

SERIOUSLY... I CAN'T EAT ANOTHER MCDONALDS HAMBURGER AGAIN... THIS IS SO DISGUSTING. I found this while I was doing some research on cleansing diets. No wonder why we all get stomach and bowel cancer. UGh! What do you all think of this? Let me know....

Wordless Wednesday

2008-03-12T00:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Matt!

2008-03-11T21:56:00.002-05:00

Yes... this is my sexy husband on his 28th birthday tonight. He is the greatest DH I could have asked for. I love you!!!

Guess Who's Back? Did ya' Miss me???

2008-03-10T21:52:00.000-05:00

Where do I begin? Hmmmm... Here is the past week and a half in review:

HUGE test... Final grade: 90% (Okay, its barely an A but it still counts...)

Work... Need I say anything more

Flu... YUCK

My nephew David had surgery for a torn ACL and meniscus... That is a huge story that can be found here

My 6th anniversary... First time we have left our child with a strange high school baby sitter....

And now.... Life returns to normal

I MISSED YOU ALL!!!!

Im Still Alive!

2008-03-03T21:20:00.000-06:00

I swear! It is true.... My test is tomorrow and I will see you all soon! Hope all is well and I can't wait to catch up on everyone's blogs!

Photo Hunters: PARTY

2008-02-29T22:18:00.003-06:00

PhotoHunt

I'm a Blogging Schmuck!

2008-02-28T00:00:00.001-06:00

Okay... First, I am going to apologize now for my lack of attention to my fellow blogger friends. Life is happening and I am really focusing on finishing my clinicals and a test right now. I luv ya all and will be here Friday night for the photo hunt, etc. However, I will be quiet for a few days! Stay warm and well. I will be thinking of everyone.

Wordless Wednseday--(SORT OF)

2008-02-27T07:02:00.002-06:00

This is something that could create a love hate relationship in the morning... An alarm clock on wheels! Follow the link for more info!

http://www.firststreetonline.com/product.jsp?id=79857&promotion=86109

The Irony of Healthcare Workers

2008-02-26T16:54:00.002-06:00

I was trying to think of something to blog about, and this idea came to me while I was walking into work yesterday. Health care workers are hypocrites. Seriously. As I walked into work yesterday, this is what I observed on the way to my unit.

Standing room only on a bus that transports employees about three blocks to work because people can't walk it

Respiratory therapists taking a smoke break outside

A overweight nurse carrying in donuts

A doctor driving without using a seat belt

Staff using an elevator to go up only one floor in the hospital

SERIOUSLY? C'mon. No wonder nurses get such a bad reputation! We are hypocrite! How can we expect our patients to do what is right when we don't? On the flip side, I am grateful for the job security that seems to be in place!

Its Oscar night... You need to see Juno!!!!

2008-02-24T00:01:00.002-06:00

This movie still makes me laugh just thinking about it... Seriously, GO SEE IT!!!! Okay, to bed I go... Off to work I go in the AM, leaving the sickos at home... If I didn't work in a hospital I would say that I was going to breathe in some germ free air (Does the car count?)

I will be rushing home to catch as much of the Oscars as I can, and backing up the TIVO if needed! Go JUNO!!!!

Passin' on the Xxtraordinary Blogger Award

2008-02-24T00:00:00.000-06:00

Okay, so sometime forever and a day ago, my blogging friend Liza at Mommy's Little Corner gave me an awesome award. I thought I would finally pass it on.

First, I am going to pass this one to Jesse at For the Love of Peas and Monkeys

This gal is an absolute HOOT! I am seriously still laughing at the courage she had to get matching tattoos with her sister on a recent vacation. She will make you laugh and she really loves her newest handbag too!

Second, I am going to pass this on to Lupitasloves at Little Pieces of my Life

This chic is an awesome photographer and has been a faithful visitor to my blog from the beginning! I love the pictures she takes of her totally cute children and the memories that she shares!

Third, I am handing this one off to my sister Charlene at Living Life Out Loud

She was the one who inspired me to start blogging! THANK YOU! She has been a bit quite the past week but she has every reason to be.. She is sick, has sick children, and a son that needs knee surgery due to a recent injury. Not to mention, she is the most awesome Disney travel agent I know. Go see her blog now and if you are looking for someone to help meet your travel needs to Disney and their other destinations, keep her in mind!

And last, but certainly not least.... I am passing this one on to Desirae at Burnt Cookies

You have to check this moms blog out when you have a chance.... Especially if you want to here about her latest life moment: A HUGE CAR FIRE.... Go there now to learn more!

PS.... I should give this award to blogger for FINALLY fixing spellchecker! ITS ABOUT TIME

I've FINALLY updated my blogroll....

2008-02-23T20:58:00.001-06:00

If anyone does NOT want to be on their PUHLEASE let me know, k? I just think your blogs totally rock and want everyone to know about them! *Smooches*

Photohunt: Wooden

2008-02-23T16:41:00.004-06:00

Perharps the best source of wood: The trees that are sacrificed to produce it.
This photo was taken at Disney's Animal Kindom and the tree in it is awesome!

PhotoHunt

Saturday....

2008-02-23T16:39:00.001-06:00

Dads sick now... Alanna is cranky... The dog is ornery. Not much else to say except I am ready for a vacation. Is it April yet?

PS... At least spellchecker is working after a month of being broke! Must be nice to take a vacation!

This one is for MKHKK

2008-02-21T23:55:00.000-06:00

Clinicals are awesome....

I try not to write about to much medical stuff here on my blog for a few reasons...

1. It might make some squirmish

2. It might bore some

3. I dont know what stories to share... I have so many of them!

Funny enough, I have to say that clinicals are going great. If you are new to my blog let me update you a bit. I am already a RN and will finish with my Masters in nursing and certify as a Family Nurse Practitioner in August of this year! Woot for me!

Okay, now...

Things I have learned in clinicals that I will share with you....

TOTALLY LOVE YOUR WARTS...Okay, maybe not. But I have now learned how to burn and freeze them off and neither one is fun.

If you think you have mood instability, get help. This does not mean you are nuts. Zprexa can do wonders for many and I think it should be in the water. Many people don't realize that wanting to kill everyone and than loving them 15 minutes later IS NOT NORMAL, well, unless you have children...

Don't go to Walmart after clinical, especially if you would like to decrease the chances of you seeing patients that you might have just performed a pap on. (I used to hate the crotch DR, now I just empathize with them....) TOTALLY AKWARD

Don't eat at several dine out locations... TRUST me. Reasons to not eat out include the following:

Food testing positive for syphilis... Need I say anything else? Don't eat anything with WHITE sauce or SECRET sauce. (I'm gagging....)

Every rash or pimple IS NOT MRSA

Get regular pedicures. Seriously people... What makes you think that Dr's and Nurses want to see your nasty feet as a result of an in-grown toenail? UGH!

My final tip.... DONT play with a pocket knife barefoot... Yes, you may require stitches and a tetnus shot after this one you fool!

A lunch fit for any Princess....

2008-02-20T13:53:00.002-06:00

Now if only this Cinderella had someone to cook it... Oh alright already!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-02-20T00:00:00.000-06:00

Sports Illustrated... LOOK OUT!!!!

2008-02-19T10:05:00.000-06:00

We may not have our clothes painted on....

We may not be super tall or skinny....

BUT

We feel hot! Hee hee!

Last week the new Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition magazine was sent out as well as the new Victoria's Secret catalog... I am sorry to dissapoint you, but these photos are not found in either!

PS.... Alanna took the best photo of me I have had in a LONG time! (Even if i was in my PJ/loungewear)

I think she is going to be a great photographer in the future!

Sickness Srikes.... ME! UGH

2008-02-17T18:34:00.002-06:00

There is nothing like waking up with a massive headache and throwing up the medicine you took to relieve it... Not to mention the chills, body aches and headaches suck! Not feeling like blogging much today. I will catch up with you all later tomorrow!

The Chicken Nugget Eating contest (Also my photohunt!!!)

2008-02-16T22:27:00.009-06:00

Yes... What else can I say, my husband and nephew have this extreme obsession or dream to someday become competitive eaters. I have no clue why or where this came from, but they decided to do a contest at 8pm tonight. Please keep in mind that they ate three square meals PLUS more today.... I don't know how they had room... The above slide show has become my photohunters for this week as well... Why? BECAUSE THE SAUCE IS FREE!!!!

Joining in the festivities tonight were Amber and Lara... They were more prepared for the contest and had more room in thier bellies to start off with, proving to be an essential strategy.

The food: 160 McDonald's Chicken Nuggets

The place: My house

The rules: Eat as many nuggets as you could in 12 minutes and you were the winner....

The biggest loser: David (He ate 18 nuggets)

The second loser: Matt (He ate 28 nuggets)

The awesome third loser: Amber (She ate 42 nuggets)

And the WINNER was LARA: (She ate 43 nuggets!!!!)

Now, here is the scary part....Each nugget packs 42 calories and 2.4 grams of fat, SO

David: 756 calories in, 43.2 grams of fat

Matt: 1176 calories in, 67.2 grams of fat

Amber: 1764 calories in, 100.8 grams of fat

Lara: 1806 calories in, 103.2 grams of fat

My conclusion....Make sure you get alot of sauce!!!!

PhotoHunt

Im still here!!!

2008-02-16T22:27:00.002-06:00

Sorry I have been so quiet!!! I will be posting in a few! Hope all is well!

I'm thinking...ITs Thursday Already????

2008-02-14T00:01:00.000-06:00

This week totally has flown by.. All I can think is "Today is Thursday, already?" Seriously people, why does time go by so fast?

Anyways, since this week has been filled with dog training, class, clinicals, being a wife and a mom, life has flown. I am dreaming of the weekend where hopefully I can stay at home and relax... Except for the laundry that will call my name anyways!

I hope that everyone has a wonderful Valentine's day! I will be cramming more clinical hours down my throat so that I can be done with this in like a month... Here is my countdown update: 96.5 hours down...83.5 more hours to go..... Woohoo! Besides, if I was off I would have made my husband take me to the White Castle Valentine's dinner, hee hee.. ( I think that he thought I was joking!)

Alanna helped make 30 treat bags for her Valentine's day party today. I will post some pictures of all the cavities that will form instantly! Seriously people, why do we need candy for every holiday!?!!? And tatoos? Why promote the skin insanity at this early age by placing them in the valentine's!?

The valentine cards this year? Well, that would be no other than High School Musical 2! What about you moms out there? What were the favorite choices for this year???

Happy Valentine's Day!

More later!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-02-13T00:00:00.001-06:00

(Some use cucumbers, my daughter prefers Lunchable ham circles!)

The Xxtraordinary Blogger Award

2008-02-12T21:12:00.002-06:00

The Xxtraordinary blogger award was sent my way from LIZA at Mommy's Little Corner

If you haven't been to her blog, you really need to check it out. She is a fun blogger that I enjoy talking to in this bloggy world! Thank you LIZA!!!! I will be passing this award out on Thursday! Thanks again Liza!

Tuesday Talk with Alanna

2008-02-12T21:07:00.002-06:00

Phone rings: BRRRIIIIINNNNGGGGG!!!!

Alanna: "Hello"

(Telemarkerer on the phone...Can't here them, but I am assuming that they asked her to put her mom or dad on the phone)

Alanna: "My mom is with Belle, and my Dad is pooin'..."

Spoken from the mouth of my new telemarketer filter... Go ahead, I dare you to call me back!

Magnified Life

2008-02-12T14:27:00.000-06:00

This is how our dog must feel lately! Hee hee! Sorry I have been so quiet! I will be visiting everyone sometime today and will look at thier blogs with the assistance of Alanna's magnifying glass, okay...not really, you got me! I had to do a paper for school that was 32 pages and have been spending time with Alanna and our dog, Belle. It is snowing outside (AGAIN!---ugh). Other than that, life as usual. I will post more later.... I have to let the dog out! OHMommy... How is your new pup?????

How much is that little doggie in the window???

2008-02-09T21:00:00.000-06:00

No... I am not trying to sell this precious little, soon to be HUGE dog... Sorry if I disappointed you! Today we went too our first class in the PUPPY PRESCHOOL. Yes, that is really what they call it. Not joking here.
Now, lets just say we have been trying to work really hard at starting off on the right foot and found out that we were doing almost everything WRONG. Oops... Now we are starting kinda from scratch and doing a bit better. The trainer was awesome. Who are belles classmates? An english mastiff, a yorkie, and weim-shepard mix and two other dogs that I can't remember... The quietest and calmest? That would be our dog. Belle is actually a bit shy. Hmmmmmm.... Interesting. She is probably the exception to our family, so far. The English mastiff was cute and HUGE already. I couldn't imagine having a dog that weighed as much as me or more! The yorkie was WAY to small... I kept imagining the English Mastiff or Belle trying to eat her as we had to have the dogs learn how to say hello.
SO, for now we are toting a new look this season. It is not quite Vera Bradley but it is cute. It is a dog on a leash with us AT ALL TIMES... well, when she is out of the kennel. I wonder how long this part will last? We also have to establish Alanna as a dominent leader in our "pack" so that Belle doesn't jump on her and basically take her down. That is the fun part. Have you ever had a toddler try to feed a 32 pound dog that is bigger than her???? That is how we are to start to develop dominence... I guess the dominent ones feed the pack. Interesting. I guess that makes mothers pretty dominent, huh?
Well, I will have some pics of our family twister night and my husbands "mug" shot coming soon. I HAVE to do homework before I can blog anymore! Imagine that....Me have my priorities backwards! Good night! D@&^ spellchecker AGAIN! Sorry for my typos!

If I were a Shoe

2008-02-09T15:00:00.000-06:00

My sister Charlene had this on her blog Living Life Out Loud a week ago... I thought I would give it a whirl. Feel free to give it a whirl if you would like.

If I were a shoe, I’d be a pair of flip-flops: As close as I can be to barefoot!
If I were a city, I’d be Florence, Italy: Its so beautiful there!
If I were a season, I'd be Fall: I love the changing of the trees and the weather in the fall!
If I were a car, I’d be a Bentley. Ummm... Need I say more.. Sweet ride with lots of class!
If I were a vegetable, I’d be a potato. (They are my favorite)
If I were a fruit, I’d be a kiwi fruit...
If I were a color, I’d be green. Its my favorite
If I were furniture, I’d be a cozy bed.
If I were a song, I’d be Footloose!
If I were a country, I’d be United States of America.
If I were a beverage, I’d be a Carmel light frappacinio from Starbucks... YUM!
If I were clothing, I’d be a pair of flannel pants.
If I were weather, I’d be sunny, about 70 degrees and 0 humidity.
If I were an animal, I’d be a giraffe...tall and thin!
If I were a dessert, I’d be a french silk pie from Bakers Square
If I were a plant, I’d be ummmmmmm....? A Christmas Tree!
If I were a word, I’d be DETERMINED.

And the Award Goes too.....

2008-02-08T23:12:00.001-06:00

I have decided to pass this award to:

Marilyn

Mom of the year...not

Rose

Check out thier blogs to see what makes them all have big hearts!!!!

Thanks again Michele! Happy Weekend to everyone! Hope all is well!

Photo Hunters: Heavy

2008-02-08T22:40:00.000-06:00

PhotoHunt

I've got a BIG heart!

2008-02-07T21:59:00.000-06:00

Not only am I the spreader of love, I also have a big heart... Thanks Michele! If you haven't seen her blog... YOU MUST GO THERE NOW!!! She takes the most awesome photos and is even becoming quite a talented artist! I will be passing it on tomorrow or Saturday. I have to return to life as usual tomorrow..YUCK! This means BACK TO WORK! Double Yuck!

Fritos for Breakfast

2008-02-07T12:50:00.001-06:00

This is what happens when Mom is getting ready in the morning and Alanna knows how to get herself something to eat... At least the dog was in the kennel!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-02-06T21:45:00.001-06:00

This photo was taken by my daughter who is only a toddler..... Great WW!!! Thanks Alanna!

This and That...

2008-02-06T21:40:00.000-06:00

Okay... aside from no sleep d/t the new puppy, PRINCESS BELLE, not a whole heck of alot going on here... My wordless Wednesday captures the moments of house breaking at its finest, especially in the Midwest in February! YIKES.....

We start obedience classes on Saturday. Belle and us really need them.

I went to the doctor for my follow-up appointment.... No definate pathological problems caused the miscarriage we had a few weeks ago. From what I gathered, that is a good sign. However, as a result, they will monitor me closely my next pregnancy and take lots of blood, I am sure.....
Alanna still hopes that our next baby is green. I hate to tell her that unless mommy mates with the Green Giant, that isn't going to happen!

Well, I am calling it a night. I will visit everyone tomorrow... Hope all is well. I am still mad at blogger... NO SPELLCHECKER again!

Smile Meme

2008-02-05T10:41:00.000-06:00

Liza at Mommy's Little Corner tagged me with an awesome Meme.... All you have to do is post a smile! Here is one of my favorites, yes, I have posted this one before but I love it!

I am tagging Jesse and Desirae on this one! Have fun girls!

The announcement of the day....

2008-02-04T11:25:00.000-06:00

Its here... If you remember, I made a post way back when (okay, only October) called why on earth would I want a dog. Not sure if I am still ready 100% for everything that it is going to entail, BUT..... I have been searching for about two weeks now for a Weim. After much inner debate, doubt and wonderment, the DH and I decided to go ahead and adopt one from a rescue. She is adorable. (I know one reader of this blog is going to kill me... Just do it quick and and painless as possible...) Now, this dog is already 30 pounds and is expected to be over 75 pounds as an adult. This one is a challenge.

Our previous dog experience was interesting. Let's just say I wasn't a big help to the DH and didn't give the dog the time of day. I think I am already doing better and have a much better mentality. Only four accidents in like 8 hours time.... Ugh! We go to the vet today, lets hope everything checks out. The people that run dog rescues have a heart of gold. Pretty sad place I tell ya.....

Alanna had a hard time deciding what to name her. She was torn between Aurora and Belle. The DH wanted pumba.... Finally, Belle was the final choice. (Woohoo for my DH, another princess in the house?)

Update: We just came from the vet... Everything looks okay. Belle did very well. Looks good. Already 31.5 pounds with the HUGEST paws ever.... I will post some pics of that this week, I promise. Alanna has taken well to Belle. As for Matt and I, lets just say we didn't sleep much last night. It seems that our Princess Belle doesn't like her kennel. OH WELL!!!! Its a dog life for her in that respect, and a bad night of sleep for us! She is currently in her kennel sleeping on a blanket with the door open. GOOD GIRL... And, so far...NO ACCIDENTS TODAY and it is almost 11:30! I just can't wait until I can give her a full bath after her sutues heal in a week. I can empathize with every patient I have given a spit bath to in my life... IF YOU ARE READING THIS I AM SORRY!!!!!!!! That is TOTALLY not a bath....
Next up.... Obedience classes.....

Okay, to the reader of this post that is GOING to kill me... YOU WERE RIGHT ABOUT BIGGER DOGS BEING A BIT EASIER TO POTTY TRAIN.....

There you have it folks, the big announcement of the day. (Or what I like to call, the biggest idiotic move I have made so far this week... I am sure there is more to come.....) Hee hee....

(D%#@) Spellchecker!!!! UGH......

Drum roll, please...

2008-02-04T00:06:00.000-06:00

Okay, I am passing The Spreader of Love Award to the following blog friends that I have come to know and love....

First, to my sister Charlene

Without her, I would have never started blogging.... Thank you for introducing me to my new favorite hobby (or obsession)!

Second, my new found favorite blogs Classy Chaos and The Cook Gang

These ladies will make you giggle and tell you how it really is. They are great blogging moms in the real world! Thanks for brightening my bloggy days!!!!

Third, to MKHKK

Michelle has been a wonderful supported and blog hug giver the past few weeks... And she is expecting like her 100th kid! Thanks for being there!

Once again, thank you to Desirae at Burnt Cookies for making it possible to give this award! You go ladies!!!!! Much love to all of you! Happy Monday!

I actually went out with the DH!

2008-02-03T23:23:00.000-06:00

Yes... I know: Shocking! For Christmas, the DH bought me tickets to see the musical My Fair Lady at the Cadillac theatre in Chicago. It was great. (THANK YOU!!!!)

Prior to going, we met up with two of our good friends for dinner. We went to a place called

il Mulino New York. It was too fancy to take pics but it was gorgeous inside. The restraunt was in an old mansion with awesome chandiliers and decor. We got a great seat next to the fire place. After sitting down, we were immediately given a spread of appetizers including fresh parmesean cheese that came from a huge piece the size of basketball, no joke. They also gave us some awesome zucchini, brushetta and bread. That was just the beginining. From there, we had great calamari and ordered the main course: I chose a wonderfully tender veal dish. I couldn't remember the name of it for the life of me! Finally, my DH ordered not one, but two desserts. EEK! Ricotta cheesecake and Tiramuso (YUCK to both....) Our friend chose the lemon sorbet and it was served right out of a lemon. YUM to that one!

We had a great night. It seems that after you have been married for a while and have a child, you don't make enough time for each other. This is definately something I think the DH and I need to do more often. We are planning our next excursion! Woohoo!!!!

Here is what we look like when we clean up a bit...

Not bad... The DH always takes funny photos... This one is actually good!

Well, I will visit more tomorrow... And FINALLY pass on the award..... Not to mention make a huge announcement that took place today. Good night!

PS... Please continue to excuse the typos.... The spell checker is still not working! UGH

Who are You???

2008-02-03T10:16:00.000-06:00

I have a problem.... Would the individual from Amman, Jordan please identify themselves??? I am starting to think I am being stalked! You come to my sight daily and do not leave me a comment! PUHLEASE????????

Okay, on to better things.....
Today is Superbowl Sunday... I have to show you some pics when I load them later and I also still need to pass an award away.... Guess what I will be doing later???? See Ya!

PS... I wonder how long blogger is going to let the spell check be out of commission...Please pardon any typos!

May I have your attention, Puhlease?????

2008-02-02T13:04:00.000-06:00

Yes.. I am talking to you! Guess what? Desirae at Burnt Cookies has given me my second award... WOOOOOOOohoooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!

I am excited... This one is the SPREADER OF LOVE award!!!
Thank you Desirae!

I now have a hard decision to make... Who do I give this award too??? I think it is a sexy addition to anyone's blog. Here it is:

See... I told you that it was hot! I will be passing it on soon! Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm... I'm thinking. (No, that is not a strange sqeaking sound you are hearing... it is the hampster on a wheel inside my head....)

Photo Hunters: Narrow

2008-02-01T12:58:00.000-06:00

What could account for Cinderella fitting into that glass slipper? NARROW feet!

PhotoHunt

Nothing But S-N-O-W!!!!

2008-02-01T12:53:00.001-06:00

SNOWED IN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-01T10:29:00.000-06:00

WOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!

No School today!

Alanna and I are here at home... We shoveled about 6-9 inches of snow and are having a blast. I am going to post some pictures soon! Hope all is well! More later!

The Vera Bradley Obsession... Just the Beginning?

2008-01-31T00:00:00.000-06:00

Okay... I started my addiction in August of 2007... It began with an impulsive purchase of a Java Blue Vera Bradley purse and wallet. I wasn't completely sold on it at the time, but liked it. What person would actually use these as purses?

Well, after about a day of using one, I fell in love. It became cuter, and as soon as I realized exactly how versitile it was and that I could even wash them, I was sold. I asked for another one for my birthday in November, the Mod floral Pink design.

Now, I am stuck on the same style as well. I like the Betsy. It has an outside pocket and it zips. Purses that do not zip freak me out...

My latest purchase came after I reviewed the newest catalog for like a week. It is pictured seperately above. I think it is my favorite so far. I actually want a bigger one in this print, the daisy daisy.

Now, even more drastic... My desire to attend the outlet sale in Ft. Wayne this year. It is on May 1-3rd. Anyone in? I have to admit that I am a bit afraid of the other women that might attack me as I look for more VB purses and accessories. Deep down, I think my sister might want one of thier belts for a present so I have to go! My desire???? Perhaps the luggage pieces! Who knows! Sounds like an adventure and lots of fun to me! Has anyone been to one? Just curious if I would need armor and a baseball bat to get through the crowds!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-01-30T00:00:00.000-06:00

Fair Trade?

2008-01-29T22:35:00.000-06:00

As I contemplate whether to blog or sleep, obviously blogging has won.

Yesterday, the DH and I had a relevant discussion regarding one of our upcoming vacations, the trip to Disney world.
You see, I am a simple gal that just needs a little space, a nice pool, and Cinderella's castle at Disney to keep me happy. If you remember, he is a bit of a diva and requires a bit more.

Where is this going, you ask? Well, lately he has been on this kick to purchase a Playstation 3 with the blue-ray thingy. Okay, here is my inner brain thinking, "Why on earth do you possibly need ANOTHER gaming system?" "What could possibly be better than that Wii I had to nearly beat people down for at Sam's club last year?" and "Ugh! I have to learn how to operate yet another piece of electronic equipment in my own house!"

While he could rationalize why the PS 3 was a necessity (At least in his world), I was thinking of a way to "down-grade" the room we have in order to save some bucks. Seemed like the perfect opportunity for negotiation.

As a compromise, we will down-grade the room and he was able to purchase the PS 3....
(More than likely, he would have got the PS 3 anyways.... It was my opportunity to strike a deal when I could!)

I think we have all been there... You know, the place where the DH is going to get what he wants anyways so you might as well try to get something out of the deal as well? So what if I am cheap and all I wanted was to save a few bucks!

I will say that I see myself watching movies on the PS 3 and enjoying them.... SHOCKING CONFESSION! (IF THE DH READS THIS HE MAY FALL OFF HIS CHAIR!)

Tuesday Talk with Alanna

2008-01-29T15:30:00.000-06:00

Alanna: Mom! Look at the geese!

Mom: Wow! I wonder where they are going?

Alanna: GEESE!!!!! GEESE!!!!!! COME BACK HERE RIGHT NOW!!!!

Alanna: I think they are going to see Gabriella and Troy.

(For those of you who have never heard of Gabriella and Troy, consider yourselves lucky... They are the main characters in Disney's High School Musical.)

More later.... I promise!

Kids say the best things, don't they????

2008-01-28T15:26:00.000-06:00

This is one that I was meaning to blog but it "slipped my mind" due to recent events....

Here is one for you...

Imagine this, the DH, the toddler, and you at the local Walmart....

(Just for the record, a trip to Walmart is always special as a result of the people you see.)

Even better?

Your toddler screaming out: "Look, its Pirate man!!!!"

Yes, she thought she made the greatest discovery ever. No, honey.... This is not a preview show to the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. That is just a nice man with a patch over his eye!

Suddenly, for the first time EVER, I think Super-Walmart was not big enough for me and the DH and making sure to avoid this man was our main objective for this trip!

As we walked out of the store, I braced myself for the attack... You know, one with the pirate hook and Arrrrrrr-Matey approach. Luckily, I was safe this time. Now, if only this man looked a little more like Johnny Depp..... You know, a bit more pleasing. If it did, I would have to call my sister for sure!!!!

If only Disney would help employ the local Walmart... It would truly be a better shopping experience for all! (Right Char?)

Here is who I look like.... Me??? Yeah Right!

2008-01-28T08:02:00.000-06:00

Which one do you think I look like the most?????

Okay, seriously people... Does this thing actually think I look like these people!???

If I did, wouldn't I be on television or something....

Happy Monday!

More later!

The Liar in the Bathroom

2008-01-27T18:00:00.000-06:00

Okay.... We have all been there. That moment when you realize you want a nice hot breakfast.. One that you don't have to cook. My personal favorite: Cracker Barrel. As we drove there, my mouth was watering. I knew exactly what I wanted: Biscuits and gravy! Even better, when we pulled up to the restaurant, there were hardly any cars. The DH says: "Good timing, Mom.... Oh, wait. They looked closed...." UGH!!!! Now what! Not only were they closed, the roto-rooter van was in the back. Forget breakfast here today....

We went to the second place, Bob Evans. I think everyone else went there since Cracker Barrel was closed. While we waited, of course the usual trip to the bathroom had to occur with Alanna. While in there, she tested her vocal abilities by screaming... You heard me. SCREAMING! Now, interestingly enough, there was this women on her cell phone while going to the bathroom. YUCK! She was completely annoyed and while my daughter settled down for a moment, she told the person on the phone that she was "just washing her hands in the bathroom!" LIAR!!! She was completely doing the deed on the pot! While she continued to "complain" about my daughter to who she was talking too I loudly said, "You are using the phone while going to the bathroom! What do you expect!" I intentionally did this to embarrass her while on the phone, especially since she lied!

It wasn't over there.... While Alanna was washing her hands, this lady continued to huff and puff while Alanna sang in the bathroom. After quite possibly shooting me a look that would kill, and remaining on the cell phone by the sink I said: "What do you expect to get when you talk on the phone in the bathroom!"

Now, I think I had an evil streak in me... I really wanted to be seated right behind the lady so I could let Alanna bounce up and down while she colored and waited for breakfast to come. The lady lucked out.

Seriously though, while my kid is NOT an angel, why in the world would you try to have a conversation on the phone in the public bathroom!!!! UGH!!!!

Breakfast was great.... Not Cracker Barrel but close enough, and I didn't have to cook it which made it even better.

Saturday, In the Park???

2008-01-26T23:42:00.000-06:00

Well, at least that's where my mind was.... I don't remember much but the DH sure got some laughs from the anesthesia they had given me... I guess I was quite the exhibitionist while I was being wheeled on a cart from the OR to my room... Lets just say I was not modest and apparently forgot where I was.... (Man... can I hide now or later... and Wow, this is totally the number one reason not to have a surgical procedure at the facility you work at)... Just think about that for a moment... People would be saying things like, "Man, did you here what she did after surgery??? She totally showed her who-ha to everyone and didn't care!!!"

Aside from completely embarrassing myself with the whole flashing incident, I mumbled stuff about Obama and Hilary Clinton in 2007 (That must have been a total political nightmare in my mind), asked the nurse if I peed or farted in the OR (Obviously a deep fear of mine...), and I wanted to make sure I remembered the date since I kept repeating it over and over again (Fearing I lost my orientation and sense of reality)....

I love anesthesia.....

I can't remember anything........ Its great....

Now, I will sulk in the embarrassment that I caused myself but will always remember that, for 15 seconds, I was a flasher!!!!

UGH!

PS... There were no photos taken.... DON'T EVEN ASK!!!!!!

Photo Hunters, Old Fashioned.... Remembering Kit...

2008-01-25T22:04:00.000-06:00

Night Rider Rules!!!!

PhotoHunt

We have an Angel

2008-01-25T18:37:00.000-06:00

So, yesterday was the finally the end of our "limbo". We received unfortunate news at the ultrasound... There was no heartbeat and the baby measured smaller than last time.
I felt somewhat prepared for this. It was like I mourned the previous two weeks and was expecting these results. Sometimes, we just "know".
Yes, I am one to look at the glass as half empty ALOT, but this time I had that gut feeling.
I didn't quite know how to tell my DH. I think I could have had more finesse when I told him but I couldn't think of exactly how to word it. And, for the record, it is much more easy to tell the DH that you are pregnant than you lost it. Take that one from me.
Yes, we are both saddened. Especially the DH, he wants like a million more children. This definitely sets us back a bit.
-Ironically, yesterday was my mother-in-law's birthday. We lost her three years ago at the age of 43 due to cancer. I think this was the best birthday present we could have given her, a grandchild to be in heaven with her. I thank my sister for pointing this out. In every situation there is a silver lining. We are trying to focus on positives rather than the loss.

Today, I planned on spending the day with the family. My daughter wanted nothing more than to go to daycare. I was a bit crushed, however, this gave my husband and I the day together.

We went shopping a bit (Always therapeutic), ate lunch, and saw a movie. We opted to see Juno. We were unsure how this would go since we are dealing with a loss, but it was hysterical! One of my favorite lines was this:

"You should've gone to China, you know, 'cause I hear they give away babies like free iPods. You know, they pretty much just put them in those t-shirt guns and shoot them out at sporting events."

If only it were really that simple...............
Hilarious... Go see it... Please!!!!

We are off to dinner with my sister and brother-in-law. They are keeping the little one since we have to be at the hospital tomorrow at the butt-crack of dawn. UGH! I don't know whats worse, the procedure or getting up that early.... Hmmmmmmm.....

More later!

Friday--- Still never a dull moment

2008-01-25T09:06:00.000-06:00

Problems posting today.. Ignore this one!

Thursday Tag! Six inconsequential things

2008-01-24T09:06:00.000-06:00

Desirae at Burnt Cookies tagged me today, so I am calling it my Thursday Tag! The theme is six inconsequential things. Just perfect for me today, a nice COLD morning with nothing better to do than homework or blog... Obviously blogging has won. (Thanks for saving me Desirae!!!)

The Rules:

Link to the person that tagged you
Post the rules on your blog
Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself
Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs
Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website.

Thats it!!!! So here it goes!

1. This one is a habit... I have a horrible tendancy to bit my fingernails. I have done this for as long as I can remember. I can't stop it! You would think that I would understand just how dirty my fingernails are since I am a nurse and all but NO! I still bite them!

2. Quirk? I have alot of those. I really hate telemarketers! Especially the ones that call you home and can't even pronounce your name correctly! Seriously people, if you can't even bother to call me by my appropriate name than DONT CALL ME AT ALL! No, you have not reached the SMELLS' residence or the SMELLING residence! NOT EVEN CLOSE! Even worse, when they call on the weekends, really early in the morning or really late at night! Do they think I really have nothing better to do than talk to them? Hmmmm.... Ugh.... Grrrr (Okay, I'm done) Whew, I feel better now....

3. Thing... I love Vera Bradley purses. I got the new catlague on Tuesday and can't stop drooling over it. I even got my sister Charlene addicted (hee hee, I knew I could make a monster!!!). So what if my DH thinks they are ugly and that they look like Grannie purses! I like them... (Secretly I am trying to plan a trip to the outlet sale... Shhhhhhhh, its a secret! My DH might kill me, or continue to jeer at this wonderful new obsession that I have.) Maybe I will have to dedicate a post to my awesome VB purses! Now, my sister Charlene wants to see my VB reversible belt... I haven't quite went that direction yet....

4. Quirk. I think that my house is dirty, ALL THE TIME! I especially thnk that the house is dirty if there is hair on the bathroom floor... This is usually an everyday occurance. As a result, I feel like Monica from friends sometimes. I never let my house get as dirty as it did this fall. I can't believe I lived through this disasterous occurance. Needless to say, While you could probably eat off my floors and take the white glove to the tables, my house will ALWAYS BE DIRTY! (I wonder if there is a medication to treat this... Hmmmmmmm....)

5. Habit. I never use condiments on food. I do not like ketchup, mustard, mayo etc... Unless its is hot sauce, I do not touch it. No joke! Hotdogs are plain. Hamburgers are eaten only with pickle. BLT's with no Mayo! Come on people, TASTE YOUR FOOD!!!

6. Habit.... Okay, brace yourselves... I LOOK IN PEOPLES MEDICINE CABINETS!!!! Yes, there you have it.... I finally admitted it. IF YOU ARE READING THIS AND I HAVE BEEN IN YOUR HOUSE I HAVE PROBABLY, NO MOST DEFINATELY LOOKED IN YOUR MEDICINE CABINET. I feel better. I do have a fear about this though... I think I saw it happen on a movie once. I fear that when i look into someone's cabinet that it will collapse and stuff will fall out and hit me in the face. (You can see that this has really deterred me from doing it.)

Wow! I feel better today! Now, who will I pass this on to? Hmmm.....

Charlene at Living Life Out Loud!

Marilyn at Piece by Piece

Rose at Quilted Hills

Taylor at The Wife and Mommy Blog

Katney at Katney's Kaboodle

Twisted Cinderella at Ever After, My Way

Wordless Wednesday

2008-01-23T20:36:00.001-06:00

Tuesday Talk with Alanna

2008-01-22T09:30:00.000-06:00

Alanna: Mommy!!! Be careful!!

Mom: Why?

Alanna: Because if you fall and crack your head you will need a new one! With eyes, ears and a nose too!

Mom: Okay Alanna, I will be careful (LOL)

(If only it were that simple........)

My little "Diva"

2008-01-20T19:27:00.000-06:00

What can I say, I have a little diva now. It became apparent to me over the past few months, and has increasingly gotten more evident. To illustrate, today, while I was checking on the neighbors cats, my daughter and my husband were both singing "Everyday" as a duet into toy microphones. The moment was fast and sweet, completely "diva" and one that made me laugh. I am starting to wonder if the diva characteristics have come from her father, and not me. After all, I WAS a tomboy... I blew up frogs by placing firecrackers in their mouths and played in the alley with the boys... Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm... I wonder. One thing is for sure, she likes shoes just as much as her father does... My DH has like a million pairs (Okay maybe like 35-40 but who is really counting????).

Simple Sunday

2008-01-20T16:23:00.000-06:00

Not much going on here today... Just a simple Sunday. Little bit of housework, a trip to Sam's club, and Sunday football with my family. One thing that has become a tradition is my nephew, David, spending Sunday afternoon's with us.... Today, we were joined by Paul, my other nephew. We had a nice afternoon. I can still remember when these boys were little. When I look back, it seems just like yesterday that they were annoying the crap out of me while I was watching them. You see, I lived with them when they were little and our relationship is more like a brother-sister type. Not only did they leave Lego's out where I would step on them, they got into all my belongings and teased the heck out of me!!! Now, they are young men... Ugh! I am starting to feel so old! Life happens so fast when we are not paying attention. If only there was a rewind button!!!!

In Limbo

2008-01-19T20:43:00.000-06:00

Okay, I promised to not talk much about the whole pregnancy thing, but man... the above banner says it all... I am in Limbo. I don't know if I should be happy and try to "be pregnant" or if I should expect the worse. The physician updated me on Thursday night and we talked on the phone for almost 20 minutes. (My OB-Gyn is the best). I am still 50/50 on everything. I have another ultrasound on Thursday, I explained to him that I did not even want to go. There was nothing like seeing a heartbeat.... I am dreading either NOT seeing one at all or seeing one that is still low.
One bright side, the doctor at the maternal fetal medicine place was a bit wrong, there was alot of growth. I don't know what to expect or think...
I tried to get out of the ultrasound... I can't. Medically it is important to r/o bad things. UgH! I hate waiting, and i am DEFINITELY not patient!

Important

2008-01-18T20:46:00.001-06:00

For this weeks photohunt theme, Important was the topic.... I had a hard time with this one. While some of you have seen these photos, our good friend Lara thought they were perfect...

IT IS IMPORTANT TO READ THE RIDE REQUIREMENTS BEFORE GETTING ON IT!!!!!

PhotoHunt

Attack of the Purple Marker

2008-01-17T20:38:00.001-06:00

Today I had my second day of clinicals... I got to do some things that I found cool and others would find rather disgusting. I am with an awesome physician named Dr. O. He is very laid back and comfortable with teaching others. As a result, I was able to help do some procedures in the office, including excising moles and sending them for biopsy, removing an in-grown nail, and wart removal.. I know, boring for some, fun for others... 16 hours down, 164 more hours to go...

My wonderful nephew David helped with Alanna today. When I picked her up this afternoon, this is how I found her... TO CUTE! Apparently she decided to color her nose purple while she was at preschool...

I have a long day at work tomorrow.... Hope all is well with everyone.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-01-16T07:57:00.000-06:00

Tuesday Talk with Alanna

2008-01-15T20:47:00.001-06:00

Alanna: Mom? Where does our house live?

Mom: Our house lives in (OUR TOWN).

Alanna: Oh... Where does Auntie Char's house live?

Mom: In (HER TOWN).

Alanna: Oh... Mommy, I want our house to live in Auntie Char's town!

(Another traveling conversation with Alanna today as we got off the exit for Preschool, which she also knows is the exit to Auntie Char's house!

Ultrasoun Results

2008-01-14T19:15:00.000-06:00

Okay...

Here are the unofficial results...

No change in size at all....

No change in the heartbeat...

SO, I guess I still have to wait.

My sister had a good point, one that I am still not remembering: Let God be in control!

Ugh! It is so hard. Things happen for a reason and when GOD wants them too, not me. Why do I always have to be such a planner????

No more on this subject until something happens one way or another...

As for the rest of life, it goes on. Classes and clinicals start tomorrow.

More later... Love ya all!!!

Who will be the 1000th visitor????

2008-01-13T14:23:00.001-06:00

Okay, I started blogging in October, took like an entire month off, and now am approaching 900 visitors... I wonder who will be my 1000th visitor? Will it be you? Make sure to leave me comments and let me know that you were here so I will know who it is!!!!

You are Missing Out!

2008-01-13T13:58:00.000-06:00

If you do not blog, YOU ARE MISSING OUT!!!! Give it a try, it is SUPER easy!

Why should you blog??? I have a million reasons but here are just a few:

1. It gives you some "Me" time
2. It is relaxing
3. It is fun
4. It keeps you behind a camera
5. It is an easy way to keep others informed about your life
6. It is fun
7. You meet new people
8. It is fun
9. It is fun and cool....

Did I convince you yet?????

Also, Please let me know you were here! I want to share my thought and experiences with you!!!

You should try this...

2008-01-12T22:03:00.001-06:00

Saturday Ramblings

2008-01-12T20:51:00.000-06:00

Another long day, but easy one at work.

I have an appointment on Monday for a repeat ultrasound... I will keep you all posted. I think I have finally started to accept everything and am now just ready to find out good news, but I am also prepared to handle the bad news as well...

No more talk of that....

Now, I have needed a huge laugh for the past few days. Go see Jesse's post for today, January 12th at For the Love of Peas and Monkeys

I hope that you all enjoy it as well...

Be warned! Not for the young ones!

Photo Hunters: Skinny

2008-01-12T20:38:00.000-06:00

Long skinny straws given to my sister and I at Whispering Canyon at Disney World... If you have never been there, it is quite the experieince. (Also note the very fat jar of diet coke!)

PhotoHunt

Frazzled Friday

2008-01-11T21:26:00.000-06:00

Not much changes... Waiting is the toughest part. Labs were okay. I am scheduled to go for an ultrasound Monday or Tuesday next week... I keep telling myself that I am not in control.... Not much I can do until then.

Thanks for all the prayers and support... I will keep you posted.

Now, today turned into the repeat of the eye drop drama queen and not much more occured. When I work 12-hour days as an RN, I find that I am lost for words on my blog.

Hope all is well with everyone. I will stop and visit everyone tomorrow!

Wierd and Twisted Thursday

2008-01-10T20:32:00.000-06:00

Today started off with an unusual morning, and it continued to get only weirder as the day went on. I awoke from my warm, soft bed at 6:30am to the sound of my daughter asking for french toast sticks. After I rubbed the sleep from my eyes, I fulfilled her request. After I got my self ready (Which I should mention is the best way to get out the door, usually....) Unless, you are spotting... After manifesting about this change, I collected myself and attempted to get Alanna ready for preschool...

I should probably mention the latest medical ailment to bless our home, supposed pink eye. I really think it is allergies but daycare is convinced that my child is infected.... This means I have to give eye drops to a toddler..... This is IMPOSSIBLE!!! After about 10 minutes of struggle, I got one drop in... The rest is history. Then, my child went on to have a tantrum about what clothes and shoes she was going to wear! I really hope she outgrows this soon and it doesn't get worse! Finally, we were out the door... Only 15 minutes behind and time that I would have to make up on the highway...(Here comes speed racer!). As I was dropping Alanna off at school, I found out that I was not the only one with a disgruntled toddler.

I then went to my sister, Charlene's house and hung out. Today was my first OB appointment and I was very nervous. There is nothing like having an upset stomach prior to this type of appointment! I think I completely amused my sister as I confessed one of my worse fears: having toilet paper stuck "down there" during the exam... Needless to say, I am a bit weird.
The exam went well, and my cervix is nice. (While I have performed this exam myself during my clinicals for my FNP I would still like the actual definition of a "nice cervix"). Afterwords, I went on for my ultrasound.

It was here that my weird day got more unusual. The ultrasound technician had a very difficult time finding the heartbeat. The gestational sac is larger than the baby, etc.... Now, I am a bit pushy and want information so I deserved this response. Funny enough, my sister Charlene came into the room and let me be the first to say, she is definitely one of the most Christ-filled women I know. No joke, the heartbeat appeared at 80 beats a minute once she was in the room! (This left the tech really boggled).

While the outlook is uncertain, and labs are next on the list of things to check, I feel blessed no matter what. While I can be a negative person usually, I truly feel at peace with everything right now, no matter what the outcome. I find it hard to hand over the reigns but I am not in control and only time will tell what will happen. I have a supportive husband that is by my side and while we are hoping for the best, we are ready to hear the worst.

Thank you Charlene for being part of this day! I am so glad you are my sister!! (N0 matter what, you + me = Shopping trip in Orland soon!)
Hope all is well with everyone...... More later!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-01-08T20:55:00.000-06:00

This is what happens when you mix tequila and a rain storm... Love ya Matt and Lara!!!!!

Delicious

2008-01-08T20:47:00.000-06:00

Okay... I have been looking at other blogs lately and have decided to start participating in photo hunters. While my entry is late, I felt I should still post it! The theme for this week is delicious!

PhotoHunt

Tuesday Talk with Alanna

2008-01-08T13:03:00.000-06:00

He is a morning conversation with Alanna as we were driving to preschool on the highway:

Alanna: Mom?

Me: Yes Alanna...

Alanna: Why do the trucks go backwards?

Me: Because mommy is faster!!!

Alanna has learned quickly learned that I only drive fast.... I thought this was a great revelation for a 3 1/2 year old!

More later... Back to cleaning!

Cleaning always means shopping, and other things!

2008-01-06T18:25:00.000-06:00

There is something that is positive about cleaning, usually if you are deep cleaning you need things... This allows for a shopping break sometimes! As I was working on another room and closet today, I have now come to the point where I will be reorganizing and moving my scrapbooking supplies. I finally bought some things that I have been wanting. Here is a picture of my purchases:

I especially love the fact that I got everything 50% off at Michael's. I love that store and try to stay away from it as much as I can.

After our shopping excursion, Alanna wanted "Peppers" for lunch (AKA Chili's). I love the fact that restaurants give you coloring books to help entertain children. Here is a picture that Alanna created today at lunch:

The bigger one is Mommy and the little one is Alanna. I find it quite interesting that I am the one being put out by the fire hose!!! Hmmmmmmmmmmm......

Of course, the coloring books are also meant to entertain the adults too... I worked on the maze and seek and find while we waited for lunch.

With our bellies full, we headed home for an afternoon nap... Ahhhhhhhhhhh.

Then, off to cleaning we were.

Clean Sweep

2008-01-05T21:05:00.000-06:00

Well, one thing is for sure, this house needed to be cleaned... BIG TIME!

I am usually a clean person, but definitely not organized. While my husband has helped me immensely with the house the past few months, the "deeper things" needed to be done. I think I still have some bad habits that I had to have picked up in childhood.... These include stashing things behind doors, drawers and cabinets in hopes of "forgetting about them". Unfortunately, I am still the one that eventually has to open these drawers and cabinets and still clean them. Ugh!

So, today I decided to continue my clean sweep. It all started the beginning of the week when I cleaned Alanna's room and my dresser drawers. The rest of my upper level is essentially clean except for two big tasks: My closet and the dreaded office (soon to be the next child's bedroom). I did not take a before picture of my closet and really should have. Here is the after photo:

I don't think I have ever seen the back of my closet since we moved in! Hopefully, I can keep it this way....

Next, I moved on to the worst room of all.....

My sister, Charlene, came to keep me company while I cleaned... Here a photo of her helping....

Hey, my sister is leaving for Florida AGAIN so she is practicing being a Princess again... You know, being a Princess is hard work! It was great to have a bit of company while I worked on the beast of rooms. Here is what it looks like now:

This was definitely a clean sweep.. I have to say thanks to Charlene who encouraged me that it was okay to throw stuff away... Whew! IT FELT GREAT!!!!

Month in review... (Since I was a slacker blogger!)

2008-01-04T21:23:00.000-06:00

Okay, I must admit a few things.... First, I really love blogging. I enjoy is much more than cleaning, cooking, working and school. I like it so much that I found myself CONSUMED in everything to do with it and totally forgot about everything else! As a result, I was a slacker blogger. Not to mention the holidays, finals etc........ I think I was lucky to get my Christmas tree up this year! (Keep in mind I only had my decorations up for exactly two weeks this year!!! Totally NOT ME!) Second, I think that I need to blog more..... I find it very therapeutic and it calms me down. It keeps my camera in hand and makes me take more photos than I would ever have before. Since I was a slacker, there were few photos the past month. Third, it captures my life and all the moments in them. What a better way to do it than blog!

Let's start way back in the beginning of December. I was busy finishing up the dreaded pediatric clinicals and striving for A's in my three classes. I have to say that I do not like it when my own kid is sick, let alone taking care of sick kids that are not mine! EEK! Finals stressed me out. But they are over now and next semester starts way to soon for me. I found out I was PG on my last day of class, December 11th. I think that I am actually farther along and will confirm all this next week with the doctor. I think I was a bit shocked... Here is how it went.

Okay, every ovulating women has a home pregnancy test somewhere.... Including me. I had been having symptoms of pregnancy since early November, with no positive test. I was using PH tests from the ER of the hospital I work at and found that they were not reliable. After a unusual period followed by none at all, I realized that something was up, right??? Well, the ER test showed almost nothing again.... But that good old First Response came up VERY positive... NO room for doubt at all. I have to admit, I stared at it for about 20 minutes. If I was pregnant, exactly how long have I been pregnant? How could I, the NP student not know the answer to this question? EEK! I decided to make the announcement via my blog, especially since it was a fair way to decide how to spread the news. Many do not know anything yet. It is kind of fun! (Yes BECKY... I am talking to you!) The only problem, how to tell all those non-blogging people.... I have a few ideas and that will be another blog.

Pretty much, after the whole discovery of pregnancy, I consumed myself with the holidays. Decorations, sleeping, sleeping, sleeping, movies, sleeping during movies, eating, sleeping, shopping, sleeping, working, sleeping, cleaning and dreaming about sleeping.

Christmas was great... Thank you CHAR!!

Now, here I am. I wanted to use the motto "Loose the Weight in '08" and shed some pounds....Guess this saying has changed a bit... Maybe I should patent it... I thought it was pretty catchy.

It is way past my usual bedtime... it is almost 10pm and lately, I have been turning into a pumpkin by 830.... I will never admit that I just typed that!

More later.... This I promise!

Well, I hope to do better with blogging. It is kind of my New Years resolution. I do not

2008-01-01T21:13:00.000-06:00

Yes... I'm still here, and with a surprise for everyone that reads this!!!

2008-01-01T21:00:00.000-06:00

I guess this says it all....... More later!

Tiresome Thursday

2007-11-29T22:31:00.001-06:00

Whew!!!! The week is drawing to a close. Clinicals were full of drama, life continues, and a family wedding for which Alanna is the flower girl will occupy most of this weekend. Not much more to add..

Shoes? Check!

Tights? Check!

Dress pressed? Check!

Hair appointment confirmed? Check!

Clothes for mom? Check!

Clothes for dad? Check!

Tired? Check!

Need sleep....................................CHECK!!!!!!!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2007-11-28T07:00:00.000-06:00

Photo Shoot #2

2007-11-27T07:00:00.000-06:00

As promised...photo shoot #2.....

I have a confession to make... I love taking pictures of my daughter, especially when she is wearing clothes from my favorite store for children, Gymboree! I am addicted to this store. Yes, I think it is extremely overpriced but with great coupons, sales, and a new outlet store near by, I can't go wrong!

I think that Alanna had a good photo shoot day

Life certainly goes fast... As I look at these pictures and try to find the right words to say I am in awe at how big my little girl already is... While I think she is my baby, she is quite the little princess!

Return to the Blogging World

2007-11-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

It's quite refreshing to be back into the blogging world. I wanted to share these photos with everyone! They are quite hilarious! Alanna has taken a liking to posing for the camera... We will call this photo shoot #1. There will be another one this week... It never surprises me to see how many pictures it actually takes to get one with a normal smile....

Got it!!!!

This week is almost the end of school for me... I have finished my final paper (what a bear that was), I have three days of clinical remaining, one more test, and one clinical journal due... I can see the end of this semester. The whole concept of women's health interested me but the pediatric clinicals have really depressed me... I can't wait for it to be over!

I am trying to figure out some fun things to do with my time while I am on Christmas vacation. I have to start planning early to ensure that I get them all in... I am on break from December 11th until January 14th... I am open to suggestions!

One thing is for sure, reorganizing and cleaning the house is definitely on the agenda... Yes, I know this is not exciting but it must be done...

Well, I hope all is well with everyone. More later!

Birthday Dinner

2007-11-25T21:00:00.000-06:00

For my Birthday, Lara and Amber treated me to a dinner at a Japanese steak house in Tinley Park called Hamada. It was very tasty. I have never been to a Japanese steak house so this was quite an adventure...It was a dinner and a show at the same time! It was fascinating to watch them cook the food right in front of you. (Not to mention enlightening to see how BAD everything really was for you!)

The meal started off with Japanese soup, followed by salad. Alanna loved this part and was able to use the chopsticks like a pro in no time...

Next, we witnessed first hand how chicken fried rice was made, yummy noodles with veggies, and finally, shrimp, chicken and steak.

I have to say this was probably one of the best meals I have had since Disney, lets face it, they know how to cook and set high standards once you are spoiled with the dining plan. I recommend this place to anyone and will definitely go again.

Thank you Lara and Amber for the dinner adventure!

Almost December??? Where have I been!

2007-11-24T20:26:00.001-06:00

Well, I have taken quite the break from the Blogging world. Much longer than I ever anticipated or wanted, that is for sure. It seems that blogging is very therapeutic for me, and it gets me behind the camera again. I capture moments that I would never have captured before. The past month flew by... While I was not blogging, I was taking lots of pictures that I will share over the next few weeks. The first ones that I would like to share are from my Daugther's preschool Thanksgiving program. I have to say, this was the first program I have attended and it was really cute... Alanna was a pilgrim, but she was also surrounded by lots of indians! The children were all excited to perform the "Turkey Pokey" which was a twist on the Hokey Pokey... Here, Alanna put her waddle out!

Then, her right foot... (I think she wanted her right wing out also)

Next... You put your tailfeathers in

And you do the turkey pokey

Whew! That was an adventure! We also had a wonderful time at lunch with my sister Charlene and my niece sister. It was my birthday lunch and we celebrated at Aurielios...my favorite pizza place. My sister created a wonderful post about it... You can find it here... Thanks again for a great time! Youre the best!!!

I had the opportunity to go to an awesome restraunt in Orland with Lara, Amber, Alanna and my wonderful husband Matt... It was great! I will share some photos of the excitement on a later post... Following all the excitement... Alanna got sick... I totally FREAKED! You would think that me, the nurse, would have better control of myself... Not me. My child was not even holding water down! Fortunately for me, my sister came to my rescue... She is the experienced one that will eventually be my receptionist....

More later...But I will leave you our attempt to take a family photo for one of Alanna's school projects.... Very interesting to say the least!

Yes... I am still alive

2007-11-03T21:43:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the break... Will post more later. Life has been busy and I needed a bit of a break from blogging the past few days. I missed it though! Husband, children, school and life has happened the past few days... I think my daughters face says it all... Not to mention the movie she is holding is Chitty-Chitty Bang Bang... Looking forward to the extra hour of sleep tonight. It is the only day of the year you are actually blessed with an extra hour in it. (Notice, I am using it to sleep.)

More later

Menu Monday....Late again

2007-10-30T20:56:00.000-05:00

Okay... The whole concept of Menu Monday was to eat at home, NOT out... I will be honest, we haven't been doing to greatest. In an attempt to fix this major glitch, I decided to go to Sam's club to stock up on some meat and other necessary items. Here is what was in my cart: print cartridges, economy pack of hot dogs, tortilla chips, salsa, bottled water and a bag of frozen veggies...The only meat? A bag of frozen tyson chicken breasts... Can you believe that they were out of the other meat I was looking for? How dare they.... Or, was it a sign that I shouldn't cook?

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm....

In preperation for things tonight, we were going to eat out again. Ironically, I had to stop at the grocery store for an item and instead, I got stuff to make dinner for the rest of the week.. GO ME!!!

I can do this... I think that my sister and I are going to do the cooking for the month thing... That sounds like fun...

I will post my menu as a side bar now....

Hope all is well...

Feeding the Horse

2007-10-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

Alanna enjoys playing by herself. It is amazing to see how much her imagination has taken off the past few months. While we were at the orchard, she started to pretend to feed the fake horse with hay. She could do this all day long if we would let her! Definitely cute!

Take a picture of me Mom!!!!

2007-10-26T23:48:00.000-05:00

Alanna: "Take a picture of me Mom!"

So I did.....

It's Thursday... and I'm still tired!

2007-10-25T21:50:00.000-05:00

Well, here is another fun shot from our trip to the orchard... Alanna loves playing in the kids farm. She could stay there for hours. Ahhhhhhhh... I love fall. Although, I have to say that it is going too fast. The leaves changed colors overnight. One week the air conditioning was on, and now the heat is on. At least the electric and gas company is happy!

I have not done too well with the cooking challenge. EEK! Tuesday, we ate out. Last night, we managed to stay at home and Matt and Alanna ate out tonight while I was at work. I really need to go to Sam's club. I guess I will add that to my to do list. I would love to go to a meal prep center... The sad thing is that I don't even have time to do that right now. I am in need for some good crockpot recipes... If you have some, let me know!

Alanna is learning her letters right now... I have to laugh, she is a bit confused. I think it is cute... "KA KA KA...D!" she says with great excitement tonight. So cute.

I think the mind of my daughter is fascinating. Always thinking... Always learning... Always growing.

She is such a bundle of energy. I just wish I have an ounce of it on days like today.

More later... I'm tired again. There must be something about Thursday's.........

Wordless Wednesday

2007-10-24T07:20:00.000-05:00

Corn Field Maze

2007-10-23T19:52:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, we spent some good quality time at County Line Orchard. Our first stop... the corn maze. We had alot of fun there. Alanna was determined to get to the other staircase which was on the other side of the maze. Thank goodness for Matt's navigational skills! He was able to manuver us through the maze without any difficulty. About an hour later, we emerged. Thankfully, we did not get lost! I suddenly have a new appreciation for corn fields. The sound of the wind through the corn stalks was amazing. It could relax even the most uptight person, me... Seriously, have you heard the wind through the corn stalks before? If not, I encourage you to do so sometime.

Menu Monday (Late!)

2007-10-23T12:44:00.000-05:00

Okay...It's late, but here it is. (Yes, there are alot of repeats from last weeks menu... Matt made frozen pizza and other encores a few times since I am home so late. Hopefully we will do better this week!)

Monday: Chicken and Dumpings (done)
Tuesday: Lasagna Roll-ups
Wednesday: TBA (Probably Matt's Choice)
Thursday: Crockpot Chili
Friday: Chicken and Rice

Here we go again!

Suddenly Saturday

2007-10-20T20:56:00.001-05:00

Okay... I am still alive (barely). I was supposed to work midnights tonight and suddenly, the phone rang at 0440 in the AM... Yes, I said AM. Ouch. They wanted to to come in and work days. Did they even check the schedule to see if I was already on it? NO! Why would you want to do that? It only makes sense. Matt was not to happy. I thought he was going to scream!!!
Well, after being awake, I decided to point out how I couldn't work for 24 hours straight.. Hmmmmmmm.... I wonder if they would have let me? I offered up a trade and worked days instead. This was a much better deal all around. SO, Saturday happened very SUDDENLY... I think I should take the phone off the hook tonight so Sunday doesn't follow this trend as well.
What to do next... Sleep, study, write my paper or blog more... Life is to short and I need more hours in the day. I have to do a paper now. More later

Jess

It's Thursday... And I'm tired!

2007-10-18T19:14:00.000-05:00

It's official... This is Alanna's first picture taken without me around... It is her preschool picture. She looks scared to death! I still think it is cute. What a prep!

Today is Thursday.. I have had a super busy week... (and its not going to get any better!)

Sunday: work 12 hours
Monday: clinical 10 hours
Tuesday: class 8 hours
Thursday: clinical 9 hours
Plus... cooking, cleaning, studying, writing papers, playing with my daughter and spending time for my husband... Whew! This multi-tasking queen is wore out! I do not know how some people can do this all the time. Seriously! I just want a nap!

The rain is here now. It is great! I love a good thunderstorm with lots of lightening and thunder. Should be good sleeping weather tonight.

Well, we have eaten at home all week long... Really we started all of this on last Friday. I have stopped craving french fries and hamburgers now. I will admit, we have not stuck to the menu. My husband finds it frustrating to try to prepare a meal and "wait" for me. He is preconditioned to eat at 5:30pm each night. I have not been getting home until 6-6:30. Hmmm... More crock pot meals next week for us I guess! I reminded him of the numerous times I have sped up or slowed down meal preparations in according to his ETA home... It didn't phase him. Frozen pizza last night was the menu and bosco bread sticks tonight. I had the left over pot roast from Monday night. (I have never eaten leftovers this far out... hopefully I won't regret it later!)

I'm proud of both my sister and I for sticking to our guns... we so totally rock!!!

More later

Wordless Wednesday

2007-10-17T21:12:00.000-05:00

Fire Alarm

2007-10-16T14:07:00.001-05:00

Okay... Its official.. It's Tuesday again and now, instead of the school bell... I want a FIRE DRILL!!! Trust me, I am tempted to pull it. Just to get a few minutes out of this class. A few weeks ago we did have a disaster drill. Most universities are doing this as a result of the Virginia Tech massacre last. I guess I should be careful what I wish for...

The class that I am in is Healthcare policy and procedures... It is actually interesting, but slow. The professor has very good insight and knowledge on healthcare and makes you think. However, I can never seem to give him my undivided attention! I would be diagnosed with ADD and placed on medication if I was in elementary school! On the bright side of things, I have sat here for nearly six hours and their is only to more to go. Whew!!!

Things that make class go by:

IM my sister and niece

Daydreaming

Working on assignments that are pertinent to my education

Blogging (duh!)

I have to say that the cooking challenge is off to a good start... We like the pot roast. Tonight is pulled pork sandwiches... Yum! (I think I might be a bit hungry!) I think that I might actually be able to do this. I still think shock will set in soon, time will tell.

Well, back to class... More later