Peanut Butter Jelly Days

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-09T14:17:00.000-07:00

i heart faces: play

2010-06-07T14:33:00.000-07:00

Hard at work. He managed to find a "mitt" because he let the Jelly use his real one. Cleaver, smart, sweet, cute kid. This is my entry for

play

ipad. can't decide?

2010-05-13T08:32:00.001-07:00

Thought this could help.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

The Best Pizza in the Country.

2010-05-06T10:35:00.000-07:00

Pizzeria Bianco. The Pizzeria Bianco that has been claimed to be the best pizza in the country. We finally got to experience this one wonder of the state. We were determined. Our BFF is moving to Colorado {boo} but this was the one place he wanted to try before he left. {yay}

He did all the dirty work for us. He showed up at 4 o'clock, stood in line until they opened at 5 o'clock, put our name down on the list and our reservation time was about 7:15. That was the time we arrived. Easy, for us anyways. {thanks b}

We sat down at one of the 10 tables they had, okay maybe they had 15. We looked at the menu and ordered 4 of the 6 pizza's they had. This may be the only time we ever get to this place, so we made it worth our while.

We waited, and waited, and watched as the man behind the scene was making pizza and throwing them in the brick oven. Rumor has it there is only one man who makes the pizzas, the owner. (although, he didn't look like the guy in the video, so he may have finally hired another pizza builder to give him a break once in a while)

The pizza finally arrived. It looked fantastic.

I was in love at first bite.

The Biancoverde was it's name and mozzarella, parmigiano reggiano, ricotta, arugula and garlic was its game. The flavors were magnificent. It was like an explosion of yummy goodness right in my mouth.

The second one I tried was the Rosa. Red onion, parmigiano reggiano, rosemary, pistachios. Yes, pistachios. What in the world? How did he come up with these combinations and why must you wait 4 hours to sit down at his restaurant.

I would eat here every weekend if I had the time, but I don't. I'm usually not into hype, but this is definitely the best, different kinda pizza, I have ever eaten. Don't just take my word for it, here is the clip from Oprah's show.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

Looking in the Mirror

2010-04-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

It wasn't until a few days ago I looked into the PB's eyes and felt I was looking at myself. It's a eerie feeling. People say she looks like me, I never have seen it. I dug up some of my baby pictures that my Grandma had given to me. I showed them to the Jelly, instantly he said she was the PB. Eerie I tell ya.

So I'm sharing today pictures of the PB... I mean, myself. Now maybe you don't see it because I so lazily didn't post any similar pictures of the PB. So sorry, do some digging if you must.

This bottom right photo was the one that made me say "Wow!" (and I totally did... say wow.)

So that is it. My blog post for the week. I need to get back to my busy April. I'll have a ton to share soon. I promise.

I heart faces: Collages

2010-04-18T22:36:00.000-07:00

ONE. The Peanut Butter is one and I can't believe it.

{tear}

This is a peek at her party we had for her, in collage form. It was a perfect set up for my

Collage Challenge

It was a long time planning for a few hours of funness. She wasn't feeling great, so smiles were few and far between. Regardless, she had a blast and loved all the attention.

I just have to add that the husband, the designer that he is, decorated the cake. Impressive. I know.

Check out other entries, or get great advice from I heart Faces.

I heart faces: i heart desserts

2010-04-13T14:54:00.000-07:00

This was from the birthday party of the PB's second cousin, once removed, over the mountain and around the tree.. or whatever. She is 12 days older than PB and they are becoming the best of buddies. These are the adorable cupcake her Mommy made her, giving me a very cute entry for

i heart desserts

(yes, yes I do)

Check out more over at i heart faces.

GTKY on the best day of the year!

2010-04-11T08:34:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday. Yes it's my birthday. (thank you Keely for the shout-out, super sweet!) and yes I still feel like poo. But, feeling like poo has allowed my Sunday to slow down and participate in Keely's Getting to Know you, so not all bad.

and the questions are...

1. What color do you wear the most?

That's a hard one, I have a ton of colors I wear..... I would have to say I own the most black.

2. Would you rather have $10,000 dollars or a dream vacation?

$10,000 bucks. It would last longer, I hope.

3. Do you have a weird, quirky or unusual habit?

Just asked my husband, he said "nothing really" and he notices everything... I guess that's a good thing, right?

4. I really need to start..........?

Cleaning. That will always be the answer to this question. Always.

5. What was the first blog you ever read?

I would have to go with MckMama as my first, besides some private family blogs.

6. Do you collect anything?

Nope. I hate collecting anything. I throw things out when I get done using them. My Mom was horrible at this, so I guess I'm extreme cleaner-outer. If you would have asked me 15 years ago (wow, that's a big number) It would have been beanie babies and Marvin the Martian stuff.

7. How old were you when you had your first kiss?

I was in 8th grade, so how ever old that is... It was d.scusting. I felt sick to my stomach for about a week just thinking about it. ewww.

8. Do you text/twitter while driving?

Never. ever. while driving. At a stop light, yes.

You should go participate, too. Because it's my birthday and I'd do it for you. ;) Hope everyone is enjoying the best day of the year.

The Goods

2010-04-06T06:30:00.000-07:00

The Baskets.

The Eggs

the breakfast.

The Hunt

we thoroughly enjoyed our day. You?

Eeek, it's a vlog.

2010-04-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

Here it is, my very 1st vlog.

Don't you just love the screen shot? So flattering.

It's the Thursday 5 with Mannland 5.

Cutest Clip Ever

2010-03-29T15:44:00.000-07:00

I remember after finding out the PB was going to be a girl that I had no idea how I was ever going to pull this off. I had 3 brothers, so I was more like one of them, playing GI Joes, Nintendo, riding bikes, all the dirty boy stuff. No one to practice my girly stuff on. So this automatically puts me in the tom boy category, because prissy I was not. I never wore dresses, never wore bows. Well, I take that back, my babysitter was one crafty lady. She made bows, the hugemongous , take over your whole head kind of bows. She would do my hair lady-like most mornings before school. I can even remember this one time when I was asked if I was part Chinese, because my eyes were slanted from my hair being pulled back so tight. Funny, I know.

Back to my post.

Hair. It was my biggest concern. How on earth do I do a french braid? This poor girl is going to be just like her Mommy, the one with the permi-ponytail. Lucky for the PB, her hair is still short, and clips are our best friend. They add the perfect touch to her outfit, and I don't have to fiddle with any difficult hair contraptions or braids. There is just one problem I have crossed. Cute clips are impossible to find. impossible.

That is until this day...

If you remember, I tweeted a while back that I received the cutest-clips-I-have-ever-seen-that-were-mailed-to-me-today. Then again, maybe you didn't because you don't tweet for the obvious reasons that it sometimes feels pointless.

Well, I took a picture so I could show you that they indeed are the cutest-clips-I-have-ever-seen-that-were-mailed-to-me-today. Well not today, anymore, it's more like 2 weeks ago.

The quality and detail are amazing, and the price was even better. I found them on Etsy by May Crimson. Etsy's like my most favoriteist place to find the cutesiest little do-dads, like ever. So I claim this to be a fabulous find... and you're welcome.

Thank you May Crimson for making my job as a mother to a girl a little bit easier.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-24T08:11:00.000-07:00

see more at 5 minutes for mom

i heart faces: focusing on angles

2010-03-21T21:39:00.000-07:00

My entry this week for
focusing on angles

I thought this was the perfect picture to choose. The focus is the PB's lashes, cheeks and lips. I feel in love with this as soon as it popped up on the screen, just different from the everyday blue-eyed shot.

Sunday.

2010-03-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

Getting to know me. It's here, again. You might as well get used to it and join in the fun. Thanks Keely for the fun questions every.single.week.

The questions..

1. What year did you graduate high school?

2000 cool year to graduate, eh? 10 year reunion is this year, too. Haven't decided if I'm going or not.

2. What part of your body do you neglect the most?

Oh my, everything but my face.

3. Beach house or Lake house?

Beach. Maui, remember?

4. Mac or PC?

I'm a Mac

5. Did you wear braces?

This question should be "how many times have you worn braces?" I've had massive amounts of metal in my mouth over the years. My teeth were awful. I'm thankful that my Mom insisted on fixing them, otherwise I don't know what i'd look like.

6. If you could be one person for a day..living or deceased..who would you be?

The Husband. Just want to put myself in his shoes, so I know what in the world he's thinking!

7. How many times have you moved in your life?

I've moved 5 times, all on my own.

8. Would you rather cook or clean?

Cook! I am the messiest cook ever, so I end up doing both. But If I could choose, it would be to cook it then leave the mess for someone else to clean.

I feel like I was off my game this week, my answers are weak!

Raw{e} : Distractions

2010-03-18T14:19:00.000-07:00

Sailor & Co has a great idea for using your photos without altering them in any way, hence the name Raw{e}. This is like giving me a piece of dove dark chocolate and telling me I can't eat it.

Well, kinda.

I'm a photoalteringaholic. I love to make the photos be the best as they can be, you know, like the Army. So this challenge is difficult. I knew at least 500 things I wanted to do as soon as the picture loaded onto the computer. But I resisted, didn't even load it into Lightroom, it would have been too tempting.

This round is all about

Distractions.

I've made a list.

I'm always looking forward. I read books that help me with what I want to accomplish, but I feel at times it takes away from the present. I'm figuring out how to fix the future, not living in the moment. My list of to-do's will always be never-ending and in most cases, it can wait.

Reflecting.

2010-03-18T12:38:00.000-07:00

No, this is not a post on me reflecting upon any subject matter, although I probably should be. It's about me, buying a reflector to use with my camera.

If I have learned one thing about photography, it's the lighting. It has to be perfect, or your photos turn out like, well, not good. In Arizona, the sun is always up. (and even when it's not it still feels like it is, but we won't get into that) An average of 211 days are sunny, clear blue skies. Which is awful for picture taking. You have to find shade to take good pictures, and that it can be hard to do. Even if you do, there are the annoying specks of sun that shine through the trees. So there is a solution to this mess, it's a reflector.

These are a couple of photos I took testing it out. They are in the late afternoon with the sun blazing behind the J. They are straight out of the camera so you can get the true effect.

with{out}

with

I was impressed with the results, although not perfect, it is an improvement. I will be taking my portable, pop open, 5-1 reflector with me everywhere I go. As if the camera isn't annoying enough for the PB & J, I add a 22" disc of light.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-17T15:03:00.000-07:00

join the fun at 5 minutes for mom.

He's a handful.

2010-03-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

Here is the Jelly. In is always-rambunctious-way. This is a peek in our everyday life. Only this was at the renaissance festival, dancing to the Medieval Babes lovely voices.

Getting in Gear.

2010-03-14T20:44:00.000-07:00

Whew, I'm getting in under the wire, again. Here's Keely's Getting to Know you. You know the drill, now play.

The questions..

1. What's your favorite Easter candy?

The Cadbury candy shelled chocolate eggs. You know the ones I'm talking about? The candy shell melts in your mouth, then you get the most wonderful tasting milk chocolate ever. ever. I get really excited for easter for this reason, and mainly this reason alone. They are that good.

2. Who do you think is cleaner... men or women?

I guess it depends on the person. I would say men, because my husband is a neat freak, but I also had 3 brothers... them, not so clean. I would pick equal.

3. Which do you prefer..wordy blog posts or ones with pictures?

I guess one with pictures, but they can be wordy. Just have some photos to break up the post.

4. Were you popular in highschool?

Ummm, not so much. I mean, I wasn't on the loser bench, but I never won homecoming queen.

5. What's your bra size?

XXS. Is that an appropriate answer?

6. How many states have you lived in?

I've lived in California, Nevada and Arizona, so 3.

7. What's one blog you read every day?

UCreate. It's fantastic, full of fantastic ideas.

8. Peanut butter or Nutella?

I think my blog title says it all. Nutella, I don't see the big deal.

You can head over to Mannland and play along, too.

{Laundry}

2010-03-11T10:15:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when the Husband does the laundry...

not complaining,

just sayin'.

Bubbly Toes

2010-03-06T13:59:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh, spring.

Isn't it?

If not for you, it is for us. You see, when it's not summer, it's spring. And you can tell a difference because in the summer you will want to run, screaming just like the snowbirds do.

So, back to my spring moment. It's been in the 70's here. Sunny, not too hot, not too cold, never humid. I am rubbing it in. Just to let you know.

The groundhog so lovingly saw his shadow this year, meaning 6 more weeks of winter (our spring). I know y'all with snow are cursing the ugly hog, but we are rejoicing.

In a few weeks, we will be stuck inside, pale, and still sweating, with an a/c bill well into the high 4 - 600's. It's the best $600 you can spend during this time. We will be blogging with a mean spirit, and become envious of all the blogs with happy summer outdoorsy posts.

I'm just giving you a heads up.

So let me have my moment. Mmmmkay?

Issues.

2010-03-02T09:36:00.000-08:00

The Jelly is having a tough time this week.

At least through all of this, he is still himself...

i heart faces: hilarious outtake

2010-02-28T22:51:00.000-08:00

Week 9 at I heart faces. The challenge this week is

"Hilarious Outtake"

This photo makes me laugh, it's how each photo shoot ends up with the PB & J. Maybe they are trying to tell me something....

Check out more entries at I heart faces, you can even post your own, because you know you have a funny photo.

It's still Sunday, somewhere.

2010-02-28T22:29:00.001-08:00

You thought I wasn't going to participate, didn't you? Well I couldn't miss 2 weeks in a row. So here it is. Keely's getting to know you. Get on this, before it's Monday.

The questions..

1. Would you rather bungee jump or sky dive?

If I was forced to do one or die.... I would say bungee jump. But only if forced.

2. When using a public restroom to you squat over the seat or sit?

I'm squat, never, ever do I sit. Takes too much prep work.

3. Favorite flower?

Hibiscus, it reminds me of Hawaii, and if you haven't caught on... I'm obsessed with Hawaii.

4. Pedicure or manicure?

I wear flip flops everyday, so pedicure for sure.

5. How many siblings do you have?

3 brothers, 2 older, 1 younger.

6. Do you pee in the shower? (gasp!)

If you gotta go, you gotta go, right? You're not going to get out and get the whole bathroom wet, that's just extra work for later. But only if you really gotta go.

7. Bikini, tankini, or one piece?

Bikini, wouldn't that be great. Seriously I need to start working out. now.

8. Where do you hate to shop at, but go there anyway?

I'm with Keely with this one. Walmart. Every time I go there, I swear I will never again. It's so not... organized.

Fascinating Facts : Candy Bars

2010-02-26T09:16:00.000-08:00

Fascinating Fact Friday

because you want to know

If you haven't noticed, I've been obsessing over candy bars lately, well just one in particular. I've dug up some interesting facts about them. Here you go.

The 1st candy bar was invented in 1847 by Joseph Fry. He created a chocolate paste that could be pressed into a mold, resulting in a chocolate bar.

Henry Nestle and Daniel Peter invented milk chocolate in 1875.

Reese's Peanut Butter Cups came around in 1923, along with Butterfinger and Milky Way. Snickers mad it's appearance in 1930.

The most popular candy bars...

Snickers
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
Kit Kat
Butterfinder
Milky Way
3 Musketeers
Baby Ruth
M&M's
Oh Henry!
Hershey Bar

So what's your favorite? You can see what others are answering in my BlogFrog community.

Step, two, three, four.

2010-02-25T06:47:00.000-08:00

She's already ready, already. I can't stand it, my baby is almost walking. She completely skipped the crawling stage. Actually, refused the crawling stage. She still won't. She'd rather perfect her walking skills, and she is darn proud of 'em. Yesterday she took 4 unsupported steps before plunging into my arms. The look of accomplishment on her face was priceless.

It seems that with the PB, time has flown. I feel like she hasn't had as much attention as the J did his first year. He was more "advanced" by her age. He was signing at her age, crawling, and "talking" more. I've realized today, that she will manage just fine. She will learn to walk, talk, eat, all by herself when she is ready.

I won't rush any of it. I will enjoy every step, at any pace.

I could be blogging....

2010-02-18T13:08:00.000-08:00

but I'm busy...

spending time with the Hubsters while he is on vacation

spending time with my mom while she is in town

enjoying the warm sun on our toes

visiting places where the women display themselves {aka renaissance festival}

playing at the children's museum

busy being on the news

attempting to get into restaurants with a 4.5 hours waiting list {aka dumb}

practicing my photography and getting a business started

enjoying my babies, because in 2 months my baby is going to be 1

getting a job

being busy.

Sunday Fun, St. Valentine's Way... or not.

2010-02-14T11:19:00.000-08:00

All things Valentines with Keely's Getting to know you. Head on over, link it up. Otherwise just read my answers, because it's fun.

1. Favorite Valentine's candy?

MMMMmmm, Dove Dark Chocolate Hearts. Or any chocolate for that matter.

2. Pink or red?

How 'bout purple? It's certainly a Valentine's day color, and I have a small obsession with it right now.

3. Will you be doing anything to celebrate today?

Maybe go out to dinner, our favorite restaurant, I suppose.

4. Do you put up Valentine's decorations?

Nope, not yet. I'm sure next year when the kiddos are more into crafty things.

5. What does Valentine's Day mean to you?

If I say nothing, is that bad? Okay, it's not nothing, but it certainly isn't a big deal. We take date nights when we can get them, we give gifts when we find them, don't need a day to tell us to.

6. Would you rather get..flowers, candy, or a night out?

I love flowers, but a night out is fun too. It depends if the kids are with us, then the flowers.

7. Sexy lingerie or nothing.at.all?

I guess that is a question for the Hubby...

8. Do you say Valentine's Day or Valentime's Day?

I have a pet peeve of pronouncing things wrong. I make sure to enunciate the "tine's" at the end. You know, like liBRARY, not libary.

Alright, alright, alright. Now your turn.

Fascinating Facts : Valentine's Day

2010-02-12T10:46:00.000-08:00

Fascinating Fact Friday

Awww, Valentine's Day. It's this Sunday, already. I thought It would be fun to give you a few facts about the most romantic day of the year. Now you have something to talk about with your honey over a beautiful, romantic, candlelit dinner.

Verona, the Italian city where Shakespeare's play characters Romeo and Juliet lived, Juliet receives about 1,000 love letters every year on Valentine's Day.

After Christmas, Valentine's day is the single largest seasonal card-sending occasion.

The red rose was a favorite flower of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. Sine red stands for strong feelings, red rose is a flower of love, yellow is for friendship.

The first Valentine's Day box of chocolates was introduced by Richard Cadbury in 1868.

Yeah, all that candlelit jibber up top, not happening here. How 'bout in your house? Do you have a big night planned, gifts, cards?

Hope your day is full of beautiful red roses... or yellow.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-09T20:42:00.000-08:00

UPDATE:

Dang! I was really trying to go wordless on this post, but I just can't. This photo isn't of my husband, it's my cousin. He came to visit. The Jelly has a way with words that gets anyone who walks in hour house to read him books, lots of books. So, sorry for the confusion.

See other wordless wednesday photos at 5 minutes for mom.

Birthday in April February.

2010-02-08T07:52:00.000-08:00

My birthday came early. Really early. I am using this post to thank all those who contributed.

Ahem.

Dear Dad,
Thank you for the Christmas gift. I was able to put the money towards a brand new camera. I love it, my Canon Rebel T1i. It is the best gift I could have asked for, I am enjoying every click of the shutter.

Dear Husband,
Thank you for graciously allowing me to use the money towards the camera, then paying for the remainder of the cost. You are the best and I am so grateful that you are allowing me to pursue my passion. I don't expect anything else for my real birthday. Except, maybe a new camera bag?

Dear Dad,
Thank you for then buying me a new lens for my birthday, early. As if 2 wasn't enough, I wanted more and you delivered. It's amazing. Just look at the photos it takes. And as for Lightroom, I don't know what to say. I have been addicted ever since downloading the 30 day trial and only had 4 days left. You are beyond thoughtful.

Dear Canon Rebel,
You are amazing. You have ISO control like crazy and your autofocus is perfect almost always. I can't wait to know the in's and out's about you. Prepare to be worked.

Dear Camera Lens,
I can't believe there is so much goodness in your little, tiny, lens. You amaze me more and more everyday. I am always impressed with the quality of your photos. You make me look good, for this I am grateful.

Dear Lightroom2,
You make editing photos so easy and fun. Promise to never leave me again and I will use you unconditionally.

Dear PB & J,

Thank you for enduring the camera in your face everyday. I promise I will torture some other children in the near future, leaving you alone for at least a good part of the day. Keep on smilin', because it makes Mommy's job easier.

That about does it. I am so excited to have all my gear in tow and just need some other victims. If you live in the AZ, and want me to practice on your family. Contact me, it will be for fun. I'll take your pictures, and give you a cd of all your images. It's a win win for everyone.

Sunday Morning Ritual.

2010-02-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

It's Sunday, again. That means it's time for Keely's Getting to Know You. Join in on the fun. Head over there and link up. Don't feel like playing, well she's also hosting a give-a-way so you will want to check that out.

The questions...

1. How many piercing's do you have?

Zip. Zero. Nada.

I used to have my ears pierced, that was too high maintenance. Then I got my nose pierced, that was completely pointless. So I let them all close up and I remain hole-less.

2. I love the sound of.....?

SILENCE. Love it.

3. Favorite city?

That I have visited? This is easy... Wailea, Maui. I may have an obsession, ya think??

4. Colts, Saints, or could care less?

I'm not watching so I could care less. Not a big football fan, never have been. Maybe it was the fact that I had three brothers and the TV was overtaken every Sunday to football. You would think that would make me like it, but it did the opposite.

5. Frozen yogurt or ice cream?

This is a no brainer, ice cream. Don't get me wrong, there are some fabulous frozen yogurts out there, but my heart belongs to the ice cream.

6. Favorite appetizer?

I love calamari. It's yummy.

7. What item in your closet currently makes you the happiest?

My tank tops. I got them in all colors. I know, sad. I really need to go shopping.

8.Favorite facial moisturizer?

I use Cetaphil for everyday moisturizer, but I love my Lancome tinted moisturizer best.

I feel like my answers were lazy ones today. Maybe you can do better?

Sharing is Caring... but I don't like it.

2010-02-06T07:13:00.000-08:00

Every year, starting in October, we get these birds. Snowbirds is what we call them. Although great for our economy, the biggest nuisance ever.

Us Arizonians, we love winter. They are what get us through the hot months. They are something to look forward to when we are cooped up inside, because if we were to step outside, we would melt. I'm serious.

Apparently, we aren't the only ones who love our winters. You see, these Snowbirds, they don't like the snow. They drive their huge SUV's to our home, and stay. The whole winter. Then, when the temp gets to be above 90 degrees, they run out of here so fast, back to where they really live.

Now, why is this such an awful thing?

There were 4 cars in this row, all 4 with out of state license plates.. Just to give you an idea.

The grocery stores, packed. all.day.long. Costco, there is never a good time to go. The roads, they are slow with all these birds. You can forget about getting in and out of any fabric/craft store. The lines are out the door. Oh, and doctors, they are booked 'till summer.

So, not only do we have to endure the terrible heat of summer, we have to share, share our winters. Then, they get to go back home to have their beautiful summer weather while we are stuck here. Hot. Melting. Miserable.

Sigh.

Okay, I admit I am envious of said {snowbird}. What it would be to have perfect weather all the time. This is what I would love to be, but I prefer to be called summer-getter-outer. I would be in Hawaii for 3 months out of the year. It's a big dream, but I gotta have something, right?

Fascinating Fact : Super Bowl

2010-02-05T07:48:00.000-08:00

Fascinating Fact Friday

I bet you thought I'd flake, because based on the first part of the week I have been ~~slacking~~ busy. I couldn't leave you guys hanging. It's my commitment to you, my readers, whom I adore. So I thought it would be fun to post a few Super Bowl facts, because it's this Sunday, already. You can impress your fellow Super Bowl watchers.

You're welcome.

Here's the good stuff:

The 1st Super Bowl was January 15, 1967. Green Bay Packers beat the Kansas City Chiefs.

The price of the first Super Bowl tickets were $6, $10, & $12, now they are up to $1000.

The cost of ads during the first Super Bowl were $42,500 (about $245,000 adjusted for inflation), this years ads are $2.6 million for a 30 second slot.

35% of people who attend the game write it off as a corporate expense.

The next Super Bowl, XLV, will be held in North Texas. This process is done years in advance. Cities bid, the NFL chooses based on if the facility is able to host a Super Bowl, and, well, money.

I'm in the wrong business.

Hope your Super Bowl Sunday is filled with hamburgers and hotdogs. I'm sure ours won't be. I'll be catching the commercials on Hulu after the fact. I heart Hulu.

What are your plans for the BIG GAME? Are you a fan, or not.

i heart faces: place i love

2010-02-01T09:09:00.001-08:00

i heart faces is taking a break from a photo contest to show off your favorite places.

My favorite place is in Maui, the Secret Cove.... for obvious reasons.

Head over there to check out other fabulous photos.

Because it's what I do.

2010-01-31T08:15:00.000-08:00

It's Keely's Getting to know you. You should join in the fun, just head over to Mannland5 and follow directions. It's easy.

Now to the good part.

The questions...

1. Do you iron your sheets?

Funny you should ask, I just had a discussion about this in my community. The answer is, if I could, I would do it all the time. I love the look of nice ironed sheets. Also, the color always fades in the creases, I can't stand that.

You can see what others have suggested here.

2. Your dream car is....?

If I had no kids, it would be this Lexus ISF

but since I do it would have to be this Lexus RX

See a theme here? I {heart} Lexus, I won't buy anything less.... you know, if I could afford it.

3. Do you have an innie or an outie belly button?

It's an innie. I like it.

4. What meal do you look forward to the most..breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

Depends what we are having. I love breakfast foods. Love. Actually, I love all food. Is it fair to say all three.

5. Favorite mascara?

I don't have time for mascara, I just curl them [eyelashes] instead.

6. What would you say your decorating style is..traditional, modern, eclectic, country, french country, shabby chic, etc..?

Modern, in a traditional kinda way.

7. Have you ever been skinny dipping?

Nope, never have been... unless my Mom took me when I was a babe, but I'm sure that doesn't count here.

8. I hate the smell of...?

Bubble Gum. Not the minty kind, the original bubble gum flavor. We just had a discussion about this yesterday, there was an open pack of gum in the car and the smell made us nauseous, but we don't mind chewing it.

I know, you always learn so much interesting stuff about me. Now, I want to know more about you. So go ahead, join in.

Meet the Husband

2010-01-30T07:45:00.000-08:00

It is my pleasure, to introduce to you, the Husband.

It's about time, right?

The first thing I noticed when we met, besides him being the most handsome guy I have ever seen, were his Diesel shoes. You can tell a lot by a mans shoes, and his were definitely fitting. I knew this was going to be a great relationship, yep, just from looking at his shoes.

A little about the Husband...

He has dichromatic eyes. One is brown, the other blue... I love them.

He notices everything. everything. Yeah, like the stain on your jeans that you didn't even know was there, or the long hair, that you are self conscious about, growing out of your face. It's annoying... in a good, helpful kinda way.

He loves to shop, and dresses better than I do.

He graduated in graphic design, but works in finance.

He is funny. He is so funny he will have you laughing at yourself. He started saying "that's what she said" before The Office was even a thought. Yep, that kind of funny... sigh.

People think he looks like Ben Affleck. I think he's [the Husband] hotter.

He is an amazing Husband and Daddy. ah.mazing. He is so fun to be around, I wouldn't want to spend a minute away from him if we had the chance.

I'm sure you'll learn more about him as the time goes on, just wanted to get his handsome face on my sidebar.

Fascinating Fact : US Money

2010-01-29T09:30:00.000-08:00

It's that time again for

Fascinating Fact Friday

You know, because you love to learn something new everyday, that or impress your kids, your spouse or your neighbor. This week I learned all about money. There are some pretty fascinating facts about this out there, these were my favorite.

A dime has 118 ridges around the edge, a quarter has 119.

The Federal Reserve Systems list for average bill life span.

$1 22 months

$5 2 years

$10 3 years

$20 4 years

$50 9 years

$100 9 years

There is about $823 in circulation for each person in America. (not in my pocket)

Parker Brothers printed more money for its Monopoly games than the Federal Reserve has issued in real US money.

The "buck" get that name from days before paper money, when they traded animal skins including deer and elk bucks.

Now you are 5 facts smarter than you were before you stumbled on my page, aren't you lucky.

Know something else, I'm dying to know!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-27T07:40:00.000-08:00

The Husband snapped this photo. It's the Peanut Butter and her toofers, finally. They may not be out, but at least they really do exists.

I realize I'm terrible at the wordless part, I'll try really hard next week.

Fabulous Find : Dr Seuss

2010-01-26T07:18:00.000-08:00

I love great finds and Dr. Seuss, so when this popped in my email I just had to tell you about it.

It's a book and/or a plush toy for $5 bucks each. It's from Kohl's, and 100% of the net profit will support health and educational opportunities for children nationwide. It's Kohl's Cares for Kids.

I know, it's so cute... and cheap!

i heart faces: texture

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

Week 4 over at i heart faces. The theme this week is

Texture

I wasn't sure about the whole texture photo thing. This is my first attempt to ever do one, I must say it can be a lot of fun! I am slowly becoming a fan. You can completely change the picture with just a fun background. It was a great learning experience, and look forward to sharping my texture skills.

Head on over to i heart faces and check out other photos. Heck, you can even enter one in yourself.

Loving the Sunday Fun.

2010-01-24T11:11:00.000-08:00

Sunday brings fun from Keely at Mannland5. It's Getting to Know You. You can play along too. Just copy her questions, answer them and then link it up. Head over there to join in.

Now, for the questions...

1. Waffles, pancakes or french toast?

I love them all, but if you want me to choose an order, I can do that.

Waffles
French Toast
Pancakes

2. Dream home..What would it look like?

This home, on a beach, in Maui or Southern California (the Husband would prefer). Sigh.

3. Favorite sport to watch during the Winter Olympics?

I don't think i've watched the Olympics in years... but when I was a kid, I loved the figure skating, I know, such a girly answer.

4. The first word that comes to mind when describing yourself?

Determined.... or that's what I'd like to think I am.

5. Dresses, pants (jeans, leggings, etc.) or skirts?

I wear skirts with leggings a lot, I also love pants. Dresses are okay, they just go out of style so fast, don't feel like I wear them long.

6. What is your favorite time of day?

Afternoon, nap time. Not that I don't love being with the kids, I just love having time to recoup and get it together before the night chaos begins.

7. Beach or Mountains..which do you prefer?

Beach. Always.

8.Will you watch the Super Bowl?

I don't see why we wouldn't, hopefully someone will have recorded it so I can skip the game, view all the commercials.

Alright, you know the drill, get to answering!

Fascinating Fact : Calories

2010-01-23T17:18:00.000-08:00

It's Friday, or Saturday.... so I'm a day late. I know you were all dying to read my..

Fascinating Facts

All about calories. I didn't have as much luck with this topic, but I did find a few that were fascinating enough.

There are 3500 calories for each pound of body fat.
You burn more calories sleeping than watching TV.
Fidgeting can burn up to 350 per day.
To figure how many calories are in a certain food, they place it in an incinerator type machine and burn it, they know how many calories it is by the temperature of when it burns.

Crazy, technically to burn 1lb of fat, you have to burn an extra 3500 calories... no wonder I can gain a pound so quickly, I love to eat.

Know something else about calories, let me know.

Auto Response

2010-01-21T07:05:00.000-08:00

You know when you ask a question then the first response you get is, huh? or what? You thought you said it loud and clear, but you ask it again anyways, but before you can get the last word out of your mouth, you already get your answer.

For example:

"Hey honey, what time did we say we would meet Tara & Mark?"

"Huh?"

"What time were we supposed to..."

"7:30"

Why does this happen, they obviously heard the question the first time, but they make you repeat it.

Maybe it's out of habit, or maybe it's buying time for the real answer. Then it becomes this game. You wait a minute before you repeat the question because you know that they heard it. They don't give the answer because they wouldn't want you to think that they wasted time with their "huh?" You finally cave in, repeat the question, and you finally get the answer you have been waiting for, patiently I might add.

I'm writing this with a big grin on my face. The Husband and I both guilty of the auto-response. The 10 second question always becomes the 10 minute answer. He was the first to bring up the unnecessary response of "huh?" We were wondering how many people actually notice or just willingly repeat their questions.

Now that I told you this story, you will notice it more from friends, family, even the grocery clerk. Sorry.

...This post was a lot better in my head, does that ever happen to you?

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-20T09:28:00.000-08:00

I know it's supposed to be wordless, but I think I need to explain this one. It's my Mom, at the fair, eating a turkey leg....

okay, maybe it didn't need explaining, it is pretty obvious.

Find more Wordless Wednesday posts at 5 Minutes for Mom.

Fun for UPS Man

2010-01-19T15:06:00.000-08:00

I received a seemingly delicate package today, but no matter which way I turned it....

I could never

get it right.

Just wondering how long it took the UPS guy to figure it out.

RESET

2010-01-19T06:30:00.000-08:00

My button has been pushed, the good one, the reset button.

The Husbands parents live close to us, allowing us to get a break once in a while. Yesterday was one of those days. PB & J were in good hands with the grandparents, and I was able to make the bed in 2 minutes instead of 15. Make lunch for one, instead of 3. Was able to go to the store and dilly dally because I could.

It's days like these that make me realize that I love being a Mom. It's time to reflect, time to relax, time to take that deep breath without a little hand pulling on your pant leg. It's days like these that make me miss the kids more than anything, but thankful that they aren't around. I could not live without these days, because it's these days that make me a better Mom.

It's that reset button, and it's been pushed.

I'm looking forward to the rest of the week, excited for the PB & J to wake up, excited for the chaos to begin. The diapers to be changed, the books to be read, the food to be made and the mess to clean up.

I am truly blessed to have such an amazing family, and wonderful support.

i heart faces: we are family

2010-01-17T21:31:00.000-08:00

It's week 3 over at i heart faces. The theme this week is

"we are family"

This was a photo taken when I was back home. It's the cousins playing bocce ball. It was taken in one of my favorite places, my Grandparents backyard. We all grew up together, so when we meet up we always pick up where we left off.

GTKY

2010-01-17T20:44:00.001-08:00

That was my poor attempt at an acronym for Keely's Getting to Know You. It's fun. You should try. Just head over to her site MannLand5 and follow directions,carefully. Also, if you play this week, she will donate 25 cents to the Red Cross. Don't feel like posting, leave me a comment, I like those too.

So here they are, the questions of the week....

1. Hair color..Au naturale..or not?

Au naturale. I have alopecia (which isn't a good thing), I can't be messing with what God gave me, it can go at any moment.

2. If somebody has food in their teeth or lipstick on their teeth do you tell them?

If I'm talking to them I do, don't you always say that, you know, because you'd want someone to do the same for you.... but how often do you really?

3. Would you rather have a million dollars or your vision of the perfect body?

Give me the mill, then I can fix the bod.

4. Favorite magazine?

I love People, but I don't read it. I also love Arizona Highways, but I don't read that either. So the favorite one I have a subscription to, as a gift, is Taste of Home.... I like to cook.

5. Bra style.. lacy or plain?

No lacy lace for me, but not plain. They are colorful, flowerful, fun. But not now, I'm still nursing. They are as plain as plain can be.

6. If you walked into Victoria's Secret..would you most likely come out with something sexy or comfy?

I love PINK, so comfy. Sorry hubsters.

7. Do you fake and bake?

I did when I was a teen, but I now want to preserve what's left of my aging body, I use sunscreen.

8. What's your favorite body part on a man?

Hmmm, I love abs. Enough said.

Alright, your turn.

Our Neck of the Woods.... or Cactus...

2010-01-17T06:59:00.000-08:00

whatever.

My Dad flew in from Georgia for work. Lucky us, we got to spend the day with him at his fabulous resort.

It wasn't a long visit, but the Jelly takes what he can get.

PB lounging with the Husband while the boys play.

Outrageous Oatmeal Cookies

2010-01-16T07:30:00.000-08:00

I can't take credit for these fantastic, yummy creations. They are from Starbucks. This is the cookie my Mom tries to feed the Jelly for breakfast, because "it's good for you, there's oatmeal and raisins in it!" But she always makes sure I'm feeding him his veggies?!?

Seriously, not helping.

Getting back to these bad boys. My Mom actually got the recipe, from Starbucks. I stole it. Now I'm sharing. You're welcome.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick-cooking)

½ cup all-purpose flour

¼ cup dark raisins

¼ cup golden raisins

¼ cup dried cranberries

¼ tsp baking powder

¼ tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

6 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature

½ cup packed dark brown sugar

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

4 Tbsp dark raisins (topping)

4 Tbsp golden raisins (topping)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350

Blend together oats, flour, raisins, cranberries, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside

Beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add egg, cinnamon and vanilla; beat until combined.

Gradually add oat mixture; beat until combined.

Combine raisins for topping in separate bowl and set aside.

Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls, 2 inches apart, onto two baking sheets. Place 1 mounded teaspoon of raisins on top of dough.

Bake until cookies are golden brown but still soft, 12 to 16 minutes. Cool 5 minutes on sheets; transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

**I've made these a couple of times now, first time around I cooked them too long, they were brown when i took them out of the oven. 2nd time, I thought I had them perfect, and they could have still been taken out a few minutes earlier. Next time I will take them out when they are still gooey in the middle, because they always harden more than you think. Not that they weren't good the couple times I've made them, just more crunchy than I wanted them to be.

Fascinating Fact : Beer

2010-01-15T09:18:00.000-08:00

It's friday again, time for

Fascinating Facts

Impress your kids, your spouse, your co-worker or your neighbor. Although, this topic might not be impressive for your kids. It's all about beer. I learned a lot with this research topic. These 4 were my favorite to share:

Tea is the most popular drink in the world, beer is 2nd.

Apparently the oldest know written recipe is for beer.

The worlds strongest beer, that you can still find today, is Samuel Adams Triple Block. 17.5%

Good news: moderate beer consumption has been proven to reduce stress and the chances of heart disease. Key word here, moderate.

Okay, do you know something I don't? Join in the fun. Leave a comment, or if you are in desperate need of a blog post, do your own, link back to me and let me know.

Next week: Calories.

Potty Training: Made me mean.

2010-01-14T10:44:00.000-08:00

I was potty trained at 9 months old. I guess I hated wearing diapers and was always pulling them off. My parents decided to try me on the potty, and it worked.

My Dad told me this story when the Jelly was 8 months old. He suggested that I should try, see what happens. So I listened, I always listen to my parents, don't you? At 9 months I started the Jelly on the potty. I would set him on after his breakfast, he would sit and read a book, and poop. I'm serious! It was like magic from the first time I put him on. After every meal I would do this and almost every time he would poop. I would just make a slight grunting sound, he would do the same and he'd poop.

Okay, I'm done with the word poop.

So, I passed the word. People looked at me like I was crazy, that I was somehow forcing him to do something so young. I was a first time mother, and conscious of what people said. So, the first time he resisted, I stopped. I didn't want to "force" him to do something so sanitary at such a young age. Stupid me. If I would have just listened to my instinct, been more persistent, I'm assuming the next few paragraphs would have gone a little different.

Now fast forward 1 year and 3 months. Tried to potty train him, and it worked. For 5 days. He was accident free, even through the night, for 5 days. Then, he regressed. He refused to use the potty for his potty business.

Seriously, what are you doing?

Now, this whole 3 weeks of potty training was no easy task, but I kept my cool. I was very supportive, very nice through the whole "cleaning up piles of.... stuff" stage. We did the potty dance, the yummy treat afterwards, the whole shabang. But, when he regressed....

I went loony.

And by loony I mean, mean. Maybe it had to do with the fact that I know he could do it. I tried to keep my cool, get my bucket and rag back out and clean the piles of.... stuff, but I couldn't take it. I know I said no going back, but I was afraid that if I kept trying, I would have seriously thrown someone out the window, and that someone probably would have been the Husband. He took most of the grunt when it came to my "loosing it".

I decided I had to give up. For my sanity, for my marriage, for my son, I had to give it all up. All the blood, sweat, and many tears were for nothing. (I promise there was no real bloodshed) I took the Elmo underwear away, got the diapers back out. "He won't be in diapers in high school" is the encouraging advice I sometimes get. Thanks, just thanks.

I'm still not back to normal. I still can get really mean. I have always been a very calm, understating, patient Mom, even through the worst tantrums. This potty training business has ruined me. I snap at the slight whine or tear. I'm.... mean!

So waking up this morning I decided I have to change. Be my old self again. I realized that things were better when I didn't lose my temper. The Jelly behaved much better, he didn't talk back, he listened.

So here's to today, and me, being a nice mommy again.

Pray, please.

Represent

2010-01-13T13:00:00.000-08:00

View more Wordless Wednesday photos at 5 minutes for mom.

Fabulous Find: Crocs

2010-01-13T07:17:00.000-08:00

Update:

They are still around, just $20 per pair.

_______________________________

Original Post:

I don't think Crocs are the prettiest shoe on the shelf, but they do function well. I found this Slick Deal and thought of all you snow bound peeps. They are buy on get one FREE, and they are on sale to boot, get it, boot?

Anyways, here is the link.

They are normally $40, but with the code below 2 for $20 and free shipping.

you might need this code, might not:

newyear10: free shipping

Warning Signs...

2010-01-12T09:40:00.000-08:00

they always ruin all the fun.

Head in the Game.

2010-01-11T12:09:00.000-08:00

What game? P90X

I'm starting, tonight, again. But this time with a partner, Arizona Mamma. It's not too late to join in, your more than welcome to share this intense workout program with us. I tried to rally up the troops via blogfrog, only one responded.

I first started this program 2 weeks before thanksgiving, my first mistake. It didn't last through the holidays, the family got sick, and I'm sure I can come up with a few more excuses, but that takes effort. I have to save that for my workout tonight.

Anyways, It kicked my boo-tay. I was in pain everyday. The goal is to confuse your muscles, making them work harder. It confuses them alright, but I have to say, it works.

I used to be a gym junkie. My parents always have gone, I worked in one, I have always had a membership. I worked out, hard. Cardio, weights, classes, you name it i've done it. With all my time in the gym, I never saw results as good as I did with the 2 weeks of P90X. Did that sentence even make sense? My abs were abs, my arms were shaped, my flexibility was.... well, better. So, this time it's it. I will do the P90X program, start to finish in 90 days. Maybe 100, but the point is I will finish it.

Do your best, forget the rest.

I will be logging my info at my blogfrog community, so I don't bore you with the details if your totally not interested. I would love some words of encouragement, though, especially if you have been through this or any other workout program.

i heart faces: best face photo

2010-01-11T09:02:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon the website a while ago, and this is my first time participating in their weekly photo challenge. The theme this week is

"Best Face Photo"

The Husband actually took this photo. Won't he be happy I chose it to show off? I throw in a little ego boosting whenever I can.

Head on over there, check out the other entries.

Getting to know me... and you, if you want.

2010-01-10T12:54:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness, oh.my.goodness! It's already Sunday, that means it's time for Keely's getting to know you. This is my second week in a row, so you can see how much fun this is. Play once, and your hooked!

If you are wanting to join head over to MannLand5, copy & paste the questions, give a great answer, publish your post, head back over to MannLand5, and link up your blog.

Doesn't that sound easy, I didn't think so. Good thing it is, though [easy].

Don't want to post your own, leave your answer in the comment section. Even easier!

1. If you were stranded on a desert island and could pick one person to be stranded with you..Who would you pick? Family members not included.

Oooooo, I could answer this so many ways. Although, the Husband does read my blog so I will have to play it safe.

Okay, got it.

I will say Dave Matthew, but only if he brings his guitar.

2. Do you read celebrity gossip?

My celebrity gossip days are over, not that I'm happy about it - just don't have time to keep up. I was surprised when I found out Heidi Klum had another baby, didn't even know she was pregnant, again.

3. Favorite show you're waching this season?

I don't have a TV, how dare you ask me this question. I do not log into abc.com and watch, on demand, Brothers and Sisters! And, when LOST starts, I will not be first in line to watch that, either.

4. How tall are you?

5'7".... and a half!

5. What was the last book you read?

Early Start Potty Training. Oh, you mean for me? The Digital Photography Book Volume 2.

Okay, the last REAL book I read was "The Miracle of Mindfulness" by Thich Nhat Hanh. It is an amazing book I plan on sharing more of, but later.

6. Flats or heels?

I love heels, but flats are cool. My heel must be misshaped though, I can't wear any shoes with a back, you know, like Keds. I always get a nasty blister, always.

7. If you had to choose one natural disaster to go through, what would you choose..Earthquake, Tornado, or Hurricane?

Does it count if my Grandfather already has been through two Major disasters? He takes my turn? He was in the 1980 eruption of Mount St Helens & also in the 1989 San Francisco Earthquake. Talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

8. Thong, panties, or (gasp) granny panties?

I used to be all thong, now I'm more panties, the seamless ones. They are cute, comfy and don't ride up my boo-tay. Sexy, I know.

Okay, play.

Soapbox Saturday

2010-01-09T20:36:00.000-08:00

Not that this is a political issue by any means, but after seeing a few pictures that the Husband took of myself, I just had to step up, on my box, and shout...

When did the clothes I am wearing become so tight or short or out of fashion?
When did my hair-do become a permanent pony tail, an ugly one at that?
When did it start being okay to wear pajamas all day?
When did I stop caring about wearing makeup to cover my dark circles to prevent me from looking like a zombie?
When did my cuticles become so overgrown that I have a hard time finding my real nail?
Or how 'bout them eyebrows, or should I say unibrow?
When did my shower start coming with time limits? It's either shave or wash the hair.
When did my days start and end in the kitchen?
Why is the only song stuck in my head "A Whole New World" from Aladdin?

Okay, stepping off my box, walking away, mumbling to myself,

"when you had kids."

What have you let go lately? Leave a comment, or visit my Blogfrog community to see what others are saying.

Fascinating Fact

2010-01-08T14:46:00.000-08:00

I love learning something new everyday, like they say. I also like having a set blog post for me so I don't have to think. So, with that, I introduce to you

Fascinating Fact Friday day day day

Impress your kids, your spouse, your co-workers or you neighbor. This week we learn a little about reptiles. Fascinating, eh?

There are 8240 species of reptiles. They live on every continent except Antarctica.

Reptiles are one of the longest living species on the planet. The Aldabra tortoise can live more than 150 years.

Chameleons don't change color to blend in the background, they change because of temperature change or emotions.

Now, wasn't that educational? Was this just so much fun you have to join in? Go ahead, leave a fun reptile fact in the comment section. Or, if you are really needing a blog post, do your own, link back to me, and let me know via comments. Oh, and please leave your blog address.

Next week: Beer

Holiday Card Photos... for reals.

2010-01-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

I guess it would be for real if it was still the holiday season.

But here we are, January 7th, and I just got the holiday card photos ready. If you've read this post, you will know it's not an easy task.

I finally figured I need to take photos of PB & J separately, and then put them together later. It has the same effect, don't ya think?

See, it could have been simple from the beginning. If there is an easy way to get something done, don't count on me to do it. I make things as difficult as possible. On purpose, of course.

Better late than never, isn't that what they say?

Guacamole, done right.

2010-01-06T12:23:00.000-08:00

This is the guacamole everyone talks about. This is always requested for family gatherings, always the first thing to go at pot lucks. The Jelly eats this up faster than I can dish it out, and he doesn't even like avocados.

So, I present to you.

Guacamole, done right.

Ingredients

3 avocados - pitted, scooped, and mashed

1 lime, juiced

1 tsp salt

1/2 cup green onion, minced

3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

2 roma tomatoes, diced (I like them super tiny)

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 pinch ground cayenne pepper

Directions

Mash together the avocados, lime juice, and salt in a medium bowl. Mix in onion, cilantro, tomatoes, and garlic. Stir in cayenne pepper.

Taste how good it is, maybe add a little more salt. Refrigerate 1 hour. Now taste how fantastic it is. Serve with tortilla chips, or get even more healthy with carrot and celery sticks.

Let me know what you think.

Fabulous Find

2010-01-05T19:10:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't like something for nothing?

I found this I Love the '80's album, for free. Okay, it's 1880 classical music, but it's free. Great add to the music library.

Just thought i'd share.

Parking Spot Snob... are You Guilty?

2010-01-05T08:16:00.000-08:00

You pull into a busy mall parking lot, you look around along with everybody else and their mother, literally. You realize this was not going to be easy. Not finding a single spot, you decide you test your luck and cruise up front to see if someone is leaving.

Ah, ha. You found that single person, walking out with a arm full of bags. Your heart starts to pump because you hope you are the only one who sees her. You follow her, stop by her car, throw on the blinker, and wait. patiently. She fiddles to find her keys, pops the trunk, throws her bags in, and proceeds to climb into her car. You look at the clock, 2 minutes have gone by.

You look around, cars are stuck waiting for you, waiting for her. You signal them to "go around"

You look at the clock, 5 minutes have past.

"Seriously, are we playing this game?" you wonder. You take another moment to think if you should start looking for another spot. Nah, you've waited this long, so let the games begin.

Wait, wait, wait..... wait.

Finally, after 11 minutes in the parking lot she starts her car. Backs up, and moves on. You applaud her as she makes her way out of the spot.

We knew you could do it!

Now, you may be thinking a number of things, maybe you have had an experience just like this. I always gave them the benefit of the doubt. Maybe they were on the phone, or they dropped their keys and were having a very difficult time finding them in their 2 foot area.

Come to find out, people do this for some sort of kicks. I know this because my husband was one of them. My Mom also told me stories of her co-workers talking about it, they do indeed take their time if they know someone is waiting.

What in the world? Apparently, it's annoying to them for someone to be all up in their area. I usually don't like to play games, but this game is worth the wait. I'm in no rush.

I like to consider myself a quick getter outer, as far as parking spots are concerned. And, if someone is waiting, I hustle to get my bootay out of there even faster.... with 2 kids.

Treat others as you would like to be treated. That's the argument I had with the Husband after a short debate on why it was not okay to do.

So, are you a quick getter outer, or do you take your sweet time? I'm so curious to know what others are thinking during this parking spot debacle.

Contact Me

2010-01-04T21:02:00.000-08:00

If you ever want to get my attention, email me at:

info(dot)pbjdays(at)gmail(dot)com

A Sweet Award

2010-01-04T08:32:00.000-08:00

Literally, it was a very sweet award. It's my first one, I didn't even know they existed. Thank you, Arizona Momma, for thinking of me. You have really helped me enjoy this blogging experience.

With this award, you must thank your giver, link to their blog, list five things about yourself and then pass it on to five more people.

I don't eat processed foods... okay, I do, but I try not to.
I have alopecia, which is not a good thing.
My goal is to one day live 3 months out of the year in Maui... this is on the short to-do list.
I like the taste of maraschino cherries, but the texture makes me gag, thus using just the juice to flavor.
I want to speak French fluently, but I don't.

Now to pass this on.

Maura from Fostering Awareness

Keely at Mannland5

Keli at Ask the Graminator

Heather at It's spelled Maguire

Christine at Memories by Christine

Thank you for making blogging enjoyable.

Getting to know me.

2010-01-03T19:29:00.000-08:00

Keely over at MannLand has this fun linky lou for getting to know you. It's my first attempt, so wish me luck.

You can play, too. Just head over to Mannland and follow directions. I'm a little too ~~lazy~~ tired to repost them all. Or, if you don't wanna, just leave your answers in the comments. I'm not picky, you choose.

1. Where were you born?

Sacramento, California. Boring, I know, that's why I live somewhere new.

2. Toilet paper..do you crinkle/crumple or fold it?

Hmmm, hold on.... I'm back, I crinkle.

3. What was the last movie you saw in the theater?

Up in the Air. Before that I haven't been to a movie in months (oh, and Avatar), you caught me at a good time! It [Up in the Air] wasn't as good as I thought, total rental if you ask me.

4. What room to you spend the most time in besides your bedroom?

Besides the bedroom?! You mean besides the kitchen.

5. Would you be grossed out if you found out your husband/boyfriend/significant other hadn't brushed their teeth for 4 days and you had been snogging (kissing) them?

I'm grossed out if he doesn't brush them in the morning. d.scusting.

6. Do you fold your underwear?

No way, jose.

7. What is one goal you would like to achieve this year?

Start up my business. Photography, but first I need a camera that is mine, not my FIL. Minor detail.

8. What is your favorite month/least favorite month?

Favorite month: April, it's always beautiful in april.

Least Favorite: Any with heat over 110 degrees, so that pretty much knocks out May - September.

Wasn't that fun? Now it's your turn.

Disneyland, for free. I'm serious.

2010-01-02T15:03:00.000-08:00

Have you seen this yet?

It's Give a Day, Get a Disney Day.

Basically, you volunteer one day, for a few hours, you get a free ticket to Disneyland or Disneyworld. FREE. How fantastic is that deal?

You'd better hurry, they are only giving out 1 million tickets. They are going like hot cakes.

Check it out for yourself.

You're Welcome.

Starting the New Year Right

2010-01-02T08:15:00.000-08:00

did I say right?

Well, I guess it started that way, right and all. The Jelly was sick, so we stayed in, ordered out and grabbed a few movies. B came over and we lit the candles, which hasn't been done in over a year. (the candles being lit, not B coming over he's our BFF and over all the time)

Then 11:15 hit and the boys passed out. Seriously, couldn't even make it through the 1st movie. Lame.

Happy New Year.

Rewind '09

2009-12-31T22:54:00.000-08:00

October
It was still beautiful weather! We were lucky this year, I just hope we don't pay for it with an early summer. We are lucky to have a park right across the street from us. The Husband bought Jelly a kite and this was its first flight.

November
We took the trip, again, to Nor Cal. We do it every Thanksgiving. Here you see the cousins playing bocce ball, we are Italian. I saw my youngest brothers shocking tattoo. Last, my terminally ill Grandpa who has beaten all odds and continues to hang on 4 years after he was diagnosed.... and my Dad, too.

December
These are the gifts that were given to PB & J by my Dad. I think their expression says it all.

This is it, these are the final photos of '09. Thanks for enduring this flash back with me. I can't wait to see what the new year brings.

Rewind '09

2009-12-31T07:47:00.000-08:00

July

This month the Jelly turned 2, and the Husband turned 3o. Yikes.

August

Not much happening here, just took the some milestone photos of PB & J.

September

The Husband was busy back at work so we decided to make the trip up to Nor Cal to visit my side of the family. My Mom insisted that we make a few stops along the way. You may be thinking.... Disneyland, for a 2 year old? I'm so glad we did, he still talks about it. He remembers every detail of that day and always asks to go back. We also stopped at Venice beach to visit a friend. Cute.

Only one more segment... aren't you excited?

Rewind '09

2009-12-30T17:57:00.000-08:00

Here is the 2nd part to 2009

April

This was the month we were blessed with the Peanut Butter. It was a 3 hour labor, start to finish. My water broke right after my last bite of my greasy, heavy, In n Out burger. Exactly what not to eat when going into labor. It was a wonderful experience, I'll have to share that sometime.

She was beautiful, healthy, perfect. We are so thankful.

May

Hiking is a must during this time, the weather is beautiful and so is the desert.

June

As if having a toddler and a newborn weren't enough, the Husband decided it was a good time to remodel the kitchen. He raised the ceiling, put in canned lighting, rerouted the a/c, and put in all new cupboards. Notice there isn't an after picture. It's still not done. Usable, but not done.

Rewind '09

2009-12-29T20:45:00.000-08:00

Catchy title, eh? I can't take credit, it was Apple that sparked this post.

Anyways, what better way to play catch up than to rewind the past year? I am new to this blogging bit and you don't know a lot about our family.

I like it that way. I can tell you little by little, without boring you to tears.... or I will still bore you, but at least it will be little by little.

So here we go.

Rewind '09

January

While the Husband was busy working, PB (in the belly), J and myself went to visit my Dad in Atlanta. We went to the Georgia Aquarium, apparently it is the biggest in the world. Very impressive.

February

It was hot, already. Can you guess where we live?

March

I was 36 weeks pregnant with the Peanut Butter. We were anxiously awaiting her arrival. I was done being pregnant, and the Husband wanted his 3 months paternity leave. Yes, you read that right, 3 months off. So if we have more babies, it's strictly for the 3 months off.

Kidding, of course.

Mi thinks I need to break this post up, it's taking too long for one sitting. Till later....

Fabulous Find

2009-12-29T08:35:00.000-08:00

Have you seen this web site? It's Old Navy Weekly, and they have click for coupons. It's great! It's like playing hide and seek, only you don't ever have to hide! There are even coupons for $50 off when you spend $100. So if your planning on shopping there, you might as well stop by this site to get a discount, first.

Peek.

2009-12-28T09:44:00.000-08:00

Here is a few photos of what we did on Christmas day. We spent it with the Husbands family. It was a beautiful, sunny day. A difficult picture taking day! I did manage to snap a few. Here the Husband and the Jelly are, watching the guys play horseshoes. It's a Christmas tradition. (this is the first photo with the Husband in it, I'll have to introduce him soon, I guess)

The Jelly working on his golfing skills, although he doesn't really have any, this is the first time he has ever played.

I have more to post, later.

Hope your days have been merry and bright.

White Chocolate Cranberry Biscotti

2009-12-24T13:30:00.000-08:00

I am about to share one of my FAVORITE cookie recipes with you. I found it 5 years ago, and changed it to my liking. I also like to call them lower fat because they are.... compared to any other cookie recipe I have. It's only 1/2 cup of butter and 1/2 cup of sugar. See, lower fat!

Ingredients

2 cups flour

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

12 oz white chocolate chips

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup pecans

Directions

Preheat oven to 325.

Mix flour, baking powder & salt in a medium bowl.

In another bowl, beat butter and sugar in with mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.

Add eggs and vanilla, mix until blended.

Gradually add flour mixture, blend well.

Stir in 1 cup white chocolate chips, cranberries, and pecans.

Divide dough in half and form 2 logs about 10 x 1 1/2 inches each. Place at least 2 inches apart on a greased and floured baking sheet.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on sheet for 15 minutes. Place logs on a cutting board and cut each log into 3/4 in thick slices, and if you really want to get fancy cut them at an angle. Place slices, cut sides down, back on baking sheet. Bake 5 minutes, flip them over and bake 5 minutes more. (you want them to be dry)

Let cool on wire racks.

Melt remaining white chocolate chips. Either drizzle over or dip cookies 1/4 way in. Let chocolate harden on wax/parchment paper.

Hope you love 'em as much as we all do.

No, Virginia, There's not....

2009-12-24T07:24:00.000-08:00

but there is a Tooth Fairy!

Not to be Mr Grinch on Christmas eve, but I have a thought I'd like to share.

First, let me start off by telling you a little about us. We don't celebrate much during Christmas time. We believe in Christ, but don't put a certain day to his birth. We celebrate it everyday. I don't look down on others who celebrate, I am thankful so many are thinking of Jesus during this time. This is just what we choose to do.

Santa Clause, we don't shelter our children from. Since the Jelly is only 2 there isn't much to explain right now, but we do tell him it's a story. We will tell him it's not real, just like a character in his favorite book.

Now, to my point. When out and about we get a lot of friendly questions about what Santa's brining this year. I simply say, "oh, we don't do much" and they get the hint pretty quickly. It doesn't bother me one bit.

I overheard a couple of moms chatting about this particular topic. One woman was so frustrated that everyone kept asking her kids about Santa. "They are confusing my kids. I'm sorry, I don't lie to my children" was what she said. "What about the Tooth Fairy?" another woman asked. "Well, that's different." was her response.

That's different?!? Really?!? Because last time I checked, they were both fictional characters.

First, I don't know how others feel, please tell, but I don't see anything wrong with telling a story that your kids may/may not believe. I do it all the time. Every day I read stories that he may believe to be true. Will I burst his bubble by adding a disclaimer before each story, no. I want him to have an imagination. If he asks, I will tell the truth. I don't feel like I'm lying to him.

Second, why is Santa fake and the Tooth Fairy not? I don't know, maybe she has something against the 'ol man. But for someone so huge in this country and most people choose to celebrate, why not educate your children instead of labeling others as liars? Don't disregard him all together, or your children will be confused. As for the Tooth Fairy, I have an idea why, in her mind, it's okay to "lie" about her... I still think she is being a hypocrite, all fictional characters should be treated the same! ;)

On that note, hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, however you decide to celebrate.

Holiday Card Photos.

2009-12-23T13:05:00.000-08:00

I guess I should have mentioned attempt in the header, but this sums up how the whole "shoot" went.

and then this one. Yes, the Jelly his biting his toenails. He has a nasty habit that I can't seem to break, ideas?

and then this one,

and then this one.

I don't think we will be sending out holiday cards this year.

No TV?

2009-12-22T09:47:00.000-08:00

Here's another tid bit about me, or us (isn't it a lot less boring all broken up... or not)

We don't own a TV.

Reasons:

It's a time waster, I waste enough time as it is.
I don't have time to watch TV, and don't want to make time.
I would be tempted to plop the kids down while cleaning, making dinner, and I'm sure it wouldn't stop there.
I love the Husband and don't want to lose him to sports teams that aren't his own.
Cable is too expensive, I'd rather have new clothes.
I can get my news from Twitter (it was really hard to write this with a straight face, but isn't it true?)

Now, just because we don't own a TV doesn't mean we don't watch movies. We feel it's more controlled this way. We get to pick the time and date to sit down and watch. The TV doesn't control us, we control it... or the DVD player, whatever.

What about you? Do you own one? I'd love to hear why/why not and the reasons.

I fought the law...

2009-12-20T21:44:00.000-08:00

and the law won.

I found this funny photo while going through my phone. I have been pulled over 4 times in my life and wasn't able to get out of a ticket, once. I guess I'm not very good at this game. What is the secret, besides the obvious of don't speed. I never speed, really. It's only those few times when I get caught ;)

mmmmm......Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

2009-12-19T12:57:00.000-08:00

I have a terrible time of coming up with something to make for dinner. I have simplified this, a little, by picking one thing per night of the week.

Example:

Monday: Pasta

Tuesday: Soup

Wednesday: Breakfast for Dinner

Thursday: Mexican

Friday: Homemade Pizza

Saturday: Chicken

Sunday: Leftovers

It makes it really easy to figure out what I'm making, write out my list, and head to the grocery store only 1x per week. Without the PB&J (kids).

I even get the Husband and the Jelly involved. I simply will ask, "what would you like for soup night, chicken tortilla or corn chowder?" If they say neither, that's my chance to try something new.

The Husband chose this week...

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients:

1 onion, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 red pepper, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 cup frozen corn (or 1 can, drained, if you want)

1 1/2 lbs of chicken, diced (I usually use breast free range)

1-3 chipotle chili(s) from can with adobo sauce, minced (found in the mexican food section)

8 oz can tomato sauce

28 oz can stewed tomatoes

3 cups chicken stock or broth

1 tsp poultry seasoning

1 tsp cumin

salt & pepper, to taste

Toppings:

Sour cream

Avocado

Cheese ( I love pepper jack and/or chedder)

Cilantro

Tortilla Chips

Directions

Heat pot on medium heat. Add a couple tablespoons of olive oil and throw in the chicken, seasoning and chipotle pepper. Cook chicken until almost done.

Add the onion, zucchini, red pepper and garlic. Cook until the veggies are soft.

Add the broth, tomatoes, sauce, and corn. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Serve with all the yummy toppings you want. I'm sure you can come up with a few on your own.

The flavors are amazing together, so amazing that I never have to freeze any leftovers. Serves about 6. Enjoy.

Time Saving Tricks

Before turning on the stove.

Get everything out that is called for in the recipe.
Since the spices are all going in at the same time, pre-measure and put them in a small bowl before you start. Then you just throw them all in at once when it's time.
Before you start, cut everything up. Get 2 Cutting boards out, one for Veggies the other for chicken. Then clean up the mess on all the peelings at once.
If you are using frozen chicken, don't let it thaw out all the way. It's much easier to dice a semi-frozen chicken.
Pre open the cans and just set them by the stove.
Clean up all the mess, which shouldn't be much, then your ready to start cooking.

It's the most Wonderful Time of the Year...

2009-12-18T19:53:00.000-08:00

This is the time of year we get to play outside. 70 degrees, I would call it perfect...

not to rub it in or anything.

How is your winter looking?

Dear Acne,

2009-12-18T15:19:00.000-08:00

I despise you. It's not one thing in particular, it's everything. I'm flattered that you think I still look young, but I'm not. I am 27 years old and should have been over this phase years ago.

It must have been something I said. Did I jinx myself when I was 16 by wishing I was 20 so you would disappear? I don't understand. I wash my face twice a day, apply the necessary creams, but you still won't cease.

It's really depressing when looking in the mirror and you have taken over my face, seriously, get your own life. Just think of my kids, don't you think it will be embarrassing for them, once they reach puberty, that their Mom looks the same way?

I would appreciate if you left me alone, forever.

Your promptness in this matter is greatly appreciated.

In Frustration,

Loving Little Lessons

2009-12-17T15:29:00.000-08:00

Matthew 7:14

Break Out in Song & Dance.

2009-12-17T08:49:00.000-08:00

I often do this while

making lunch
changing diapers
reading poems
reading Dr Seuss
cleaning

It makes things much more merry and bright.

Try it!

Take your favorite Dr Seuss book, while reading it put it all to a tune. See how your kids react. The Jelly laughs, which makes The Peanut Butter laugh, which makes me laugh.

To really get things going, we often head over to Pandora Radio. If you haven't been there, you should. (I consider this another Fab Find) Sign up for free, then create a new station. Type in Walt Disney. You will get songs from all the Disney movies. Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Lion King, Little Mermaid and it doesn't stop there. We sing and dance all afternoon.

So, let me know how it goes.

Fabulous Find

2009-12-16T16:10:00.000-08:00

Update:

It's a Done Deal

___________________________________________

Original post:

Thanks to Slick Deal, I just found out that Go Daddy is offering Domain Name Registrations (new domains only) for only $0 .99 cents for 1 year. Just enter BUYCOM99 at checkout.

I think I am going to do this for my blog.... pbjdays.com (no blogspot)

Why not? It's only a buck.

Let's do this.

2009-12-16T07:45:00.000-08:00

BlogFrog will make a $10 donation to Children's Hospitals for every community who adds 20 new members! All you have to do is join my group and start a new discussion, or reply to an existing one. How easy is that?!?

I just joined BlogFrog and just got my first 5 community joiners. Does that even sound right, community joiners?! Let me know if you have started one up, too. I would love to join your community.

So, lets do this! I also have super cool discussions coming up... i'd hate for you to miss 'em.

Calling it a cop-out.

2009-12-15T14:08:00.000-08:00

My husband got sick, again. Fever, body aches, the works. This is the second time this season.

This Season!

I am so upset with him. I know he works with the public, but he needs to be more careful. Wash hands frequently, gargle with warm salt water everyday. I mean, c'mon, I even emailed him a list of things to do to prevent getting the flu, which he must have totally disregarded.

It must be nice sleeping in, being waited on, not having to deal with the kids for days. I have been a single parent without a break for what seems like an eternity, and all I hear from the other room is "honey, can you find me another blanket?"

Take a number.

He got sick on purpose, I know it. He wanted a break, and knew the only way to get it was to get sick.

Cop-out!

He's lucky I love him ;)

Something you should know about me.

2009-12-15T09:03:00.000-08:00

I love photography.

love,

LOVE.

What about you, what is a passion of yours you'd love to share?

Fabulous Find

2009-12-14T11:47:00.000-08:00

UPDATE:

It's a done deal!

_______________________

Original Post:

Who doesn't love a great find? I am going to do my part in helping you find some great deals out there. I will post them weekly and you can find them fast by clicking on Fabulous Find in the side bar. I'll also let you know when the deal has expired.

______________________

The Children's Place is having a sale on their sweaters. They are all 5 bucks!

5 bucks!

Peanut Butter is wearing hers today. Along with black leggings and a onesie.

Okay, so she's not wearing it anymore, but that's just because Jelly decided it would be ~~funny~~ hilarious to shake his water cup all over her. Although, Peanut Butter didn't really seem to mind, I thought it would be best to remove the sopping wet sweater, because you know, the purpose of a sweater is to keep warm.

At least she got a few good hours of wearing in.

On that note.

2009-12-13T10:29:00.000-08:00

I don't like the mornings. They always come too early, and too often. I especially haven't enjoyed my mornings, lately. You see, having had "two under two" comes with its ups and downs.

This is a down.

I wake up every morning to one of two children. It's either the Peanut Butter or the Jelly, and whichever one it is, the other is close to follow. I would love to get up earlier than them, get showered for the day, dressed, hair combed, but it doesn't work that way. It can't work that way. It always seems that if I'm up, they get up. They are like bloodhounds, they can smell me.

Anyways, back to my mornings. I wake up every morning to both my children with a big, smelly, poopie (apparently not a word) diaper. Seriously, is this a projection of how the rest of my day is going to be?!

Potty training post coming very soon

and on that note...

have a wonderful day.

Getting to know you.

2009-12-12T22:24:00.000-08:00

Getting to know all about ~~you~~. meee.

Although, this will come in time. Starting a blog, for me, helps me get my creative energy out. I have a millions ideas, but don't know what to do with them. I hope I can make a difference one day.

I am excited to share my:

thoughts
dreams
photos
cares
concerns
advice, what little I may have
passions
recipes

I am excited to receive:

help
encouragement
advice
support
recipes
anything else ya got

Thanks for starting this journey with me.