Shilo's Meandering Thoughts

Happy ♥ Day

2012-02-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

I suppose I am a boring mom when it comes to celebrating Valentine's Day. My mom used to have little packages of candy waiting for us on Valentine's Day morning. My little sister took her kids to an amusement place. What did I do?

Well, we did the same thing we do every year. I like that I've made this a tradition, but I worry now that my kids will feel jaded as they get older. Oh well...

So we decorated sugar cookies again this year. This year I planned ahead, however, and was able to buy lots of fun things to decorate with. Tanis and Shaylyn seem to really enjoy it. The other two boys just don't have the attention span and Ailey was asleep until about the last 3 cookies that needed to be iced.

-- She just woke up, doesn't she look soooo happy? --

-- She was so not in the mood for pictures, and yes, she does have pink eye. She's got drops - we're working on it --

Lex and Nathaniel both only lasted for one cookie. Then they decided they wanted to go play with friends. So, I let them.

This is Nate's lone cookie:

(I didn't get a picture of Lex's cookie - because I forgot to take a picture of it...)

Tanis was creative and decided to make faces on the cookies. Shaylyn got extra creative and decided to make this little doozy:

I love this. She turned the M&M upside down so it'd be a w/ type thing and then the lips are sealed. She is such a creative little thing. I hope it stays with her always.

These are the finished product:

After the cookies were done, everyone went about their 'merry' way. Tanis went and played on the computer. Shaylyn went out and played with the dog (See Eric, Flower gets play time):

As mentioned before the boys were at a friends house and Ailey decided to watch her favorite show, Blue's Clues (I love NETFLIX).

Shortly after that Eric got home from work. We had dinner and then played the Angry Bird card game. I loved that it was so simple to understand and that it was a fast moving game. We played like 4 rounds and I won 2, which meant I was the overall winner! YAY!!! (That rarely happens for me)

Eric and I then watched shows together. Eric wasn't feeling well and my back is in really bad shape, so we've opted to celebrate this weekend.

It was still a fun day and I'm thankful I have a few kids who enjoy simple little things like decorating cookies!

We've Got Spirit - Day 5

2012-02-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

Day 5 - PJ DAY/CRAZY HAIR DAY

'Wear your pajamas and make sure you have crazy hair to go with it.'

All of my kids were really looking forward to today. Shaylyn and Tanis had their pajamas picked out on Monday. Lex decided that because it was crazy hair day it also meant crazy pajama day. I let it go.

For the crazy hair I put some orange hair color spray (left over from Halloween) in Lex's hair. He decided he didn't really like it and to make him feel better I put it in Tanis & Shaylyn's hair as well. Well then Shaylyn was mad at me. So that is why she is so 'happy' in her pictures.

You can't always win as a mom....I'm used to it.

Oh and those balloons in the background that have been in my house for almost 2 weeks now? Ignore them. It doesn't mean I'm lazy, it just means I was keeping them around for Shaylyn's friend party tonight...Yeah, let's go with that...

We've Got Spirit - Day 4

2012-02-10T10:04:00.000-07:00

Day 4 - FLASHBACK DAY

'Dress from your favorite time period - 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, etc.'

So I didn't let the kids actually choose the time period. I just did what was easy and what we already had on hand. For the boys that meant the 50's, for Shaylyn it meant the 80's.

Neither of our boys have plain white t's, so we just went with a white T. Eric also mentioned to me (after seeing the pictures) that I forgot to have the boys tuck their shirts in. Yeah, oops. Oh well. I still think they looked cute.

Shaylyn's outfit came together so much better than I had thought. I had her grab one of her tank tops and a pair of her leggings. I provided the shirt, earrings and socks. It was fun to dress Shaylyn from the 80's. I wasn't old enough to dress like this in the 80's, but I always kinda liked the look. I'm also so glad that I held onto my crimper from all those years ago. LOL!

Today was a fun day as a mom! Oh and if you - like Eric - wants to know why Lex is always posing in a fighting stance, I only have this to say - "He's Eric's child...."

We've Got Spirit - Day 3

2012-02-08T13:07:00.000-07:00

DAY 3 - WACKY WEDNESDAY

"Make sure what you wear this day is mismatched and backwards."

We didn't do so well at the whole mismatching, but the backwards the kids totally got!

Tag, You're ...er... I'm It!

2012-02-07T15:07:00.001-07:00

It's been a few days since I've read anyone's blog. Seriously! Odd, for me I know.

Anyway, so I'm reading through one of my friends blogs and she's talking about this tag that she was tagged TWICE to do, so she did it. And we all know with tags, they just keep going.

Well I didn't think much of the tagging because this friends has thousands of friends. Okay, maybe not thousands - but people know her and she knows people! Glancing through names, in black and white there were 5 little letters.

S - H - I - L - O...

Sadly, I knew it was me because there are very few Shilo's around, and even when there are - their names are usually spelled with an H at the end.

That being said, I am actually honored that Catey tagged me. I enjoy these kind of things. Maybe she knew that. At any rate here are THE RULES....

1. Post the rules
2. Share 11 random things about myself
3. Answer the 11 questions from the post in which I was tagged
4. Create 11 new questions for my tagees to answer
5. Tag 11 people - legitly

So, you want random? Here goes:

1. I could spend a fortune in IKEA if I really had a fortune to spend. Good thing I don't.
2. I like office supplies. Don't know why - just do. Could also spend a fortune at these stores.
3. For all my love of office supplies and organizational crap - I suck at keeping things organized.
4. I'd love to have a work at home job that paid WELL!
5. I'm addicted to Sunkist - though I'd really rather start getting addicted to Vitamin Water. But did you know that for the price of 5 Vitamin Waters, I can get 12 cans of Sunkist? You do the math....Maybe I'll have to go for Diet Sunkist.
6. Thanks to a new, wonderful friend the scrapbook bug has bit me again. YAY! If we keep up our weekly gatherings PERHAPS I can get Alexander's book started...(baby steps, baby steps)
7. I AM NOT looking forward to summer. (Weather yes - things that are happening this summer, no!)
8. I wish I had been more patient with my mom when she was trying to teach me to sew. When I can sit down and do a SIMPLE project - I find it relaxing.
9. I spend entirely too much time on the computer.
10. I wish I was more outgoing.
11. This past weekend, I ventured out of my comfort zone and entered a competition for digital scrapbooking design. Don't know what I was thinking. You can check out my kit here. (It may take me a day or two to update that site...)

Now to answer Catey's questions...

1. WHAT IS YOUR MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT:
My 1st date with Eric is probably my most embarrassing moment. And it's not so much the fact that what happened is embarrassing (it really isn't) it's just the fact that I liked Eric so much and I was so nervous (darn that self-conscious) that it was embarrassing.

So after we had gone on the date and we were sitting on my porch chatting I went to pick up my milkshake that we had just gotten and ended up spilling it all over the place...

2. BIGGEST PET PEEVE:
Oh, my. I have a few....
When I'm driving I HATE when people keep their blinkers on when they are obviously not going ANYWHERE!
Hypocrites/Liars
People that smoke with children in the car

3. ARE YOU OCD ABOUT ANYTHING? IF SO, WHAT?
This is gonna sound crazy, but I wish I was OCD about most things in life. However, the only things I'm really OCD about is that dirty dishes are placed of the right hand side of the sink and the order about which I clean the house.

4. CELEBRITY CRUSH:
Hahaha. Love this question. Right now my biggest celeb crush is Matthew Morrison.

He can sing, he can dance, he's only a year old than me. Yeah I crush big time when he sings. And even more when he sings and dances. And yes, the hubby knows about this crush. ;)

Also at this time Jake Weber who is the husband on MEDIUM. I've been watching Medium lately and this guy (in actions and attitude, not looks) reminds me sooooo much of Eric...That's pretty much the only reason. LOL!

5. WHAT WAS THE BEST VACATION YOU'VE EVER TAKEN?
This is an interesting question. I haven't been very many places in my life. Growing up the only place we went was Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. In High School I had the opportunity to go to Vegas and Disneyland for a choir competition. While dating Eric we took a trip to Colorado with his parents and then we went to Seattle the summer after graduation. After we were married we've gone to Nebraska a couple times, went to South Dakota once and took a trip to Moab.

So now that I've mentioned my travels to pick a best....

I'm gonna have to choose a few...
#1 - The trip to Seattle was when Eric proposed. We had talked the night before and Eric threw me off by saying something about not even having money for a ring. The next night we went to the Space Needle and Eric had worked it out with his brother and sister in law to propose at the top of the Space Needle. I was very surprised and so happy. We then had dinner in the restaurant.

#2 - Lava Hot Springs has always been big for me because of all the good memories I have going there as a child. It can get boring for me now, but the memories mean so much and my kids enjoy it.

#3 - Our most recent trip to Nebraska was nice because we got to spend a lot of time with Eric's grandparents. I was able to relax and unwind and get to know Eric's mom and grandmother so much better. It was a very easy going trip and one I'll remember FOREVER!

6. IF YOU COULD HAVE ONE SUPERPOWER WHAT WOULD IT BE?
This is another question I have multiple answers for. But only 2.

I'd love to be invisible or to have telepathy. Both of which could be very harmful for my self-esteem, but it would allow me to know the truth which is really all I want!

7. BIGGEST FEAR?
To be honest my biggest fear is that I will die before my kids are grown. I'm afraid of everything that would entail.

8. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE?
Ham fried rice! YAY!!! Sorry, Eric - it's gone now!

9. YOU HAVE 24 HOURS TO DO WHATEVER YOU WANT, WHAT DO YOU DO?
Assuming that I'm not dying the next day or whatever I think I would totally scrapbook. All day, all night while listening to my favorite music!

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BLOG TO READ?
I don't necessarily have a favorite. Because of my 'nosy' nature I just love personal blogs. I love to hear what people are up to and what's going on in their lives. There are some blogs I tend to read more often as they are more upbeat and humorous, but overall my favorite's are personal blogs with a side of crafty!

11. GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT LAST YEAR? BIGGEST GOAL THIS YEAR?
So last year my biggest accomplishment (up until Christmas break) was exercising every week day. I only managed to lose 5 lbs. in a 4 month period, which was really quite depressing and probably a big reason why I haven't started up again, but I set the goal and I did it.

My biggest goal this year is to keep on keeping on. I've had some setbacks, but I just need to get moving again. I feel so much better when I do. Along with that I need to eat better. Choose healthier snacks and stop the emotional eating.

I would LOVE to be a runner, but I am afraid I just don't have it in me....Maybe after I lose a bit more weight so I can look a little cuter doing it, maybe...

QUESTIONS FOR YOU LUCKY PEOPLE I TAG:

1. Where were you born? (Make it exciting)
2. Did you know what you wanted to do for the rest of your life in high school? If so, did that change?
3. When was the last time you talked to your parents? (Doesn't matter which)
4. Moment in your life when you felt like the biggest failure?
5. The saddest moment in your life?
6. What is your motto or the saying that keeps you going day to day?
7. What's your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?
8. If you could have any job in the world (it works with your current family life - even if in reality it doesn't) what would it be?
9. What's one thing you would love to learn how to do?
10. How do you keep upbeat when the world seems to be crushing down on you?
11. Did you go to college? If so, where? If not, where would you have liked to go?

MY TAGEES:

1. Diana
2. Ashley (LOVE YOUR HUMOR - WANT TO SEE HOW YOU ANSWER THESE)
3. Brandee
4. Rheanna
5. BreeAnn
6. Marisa (I MISS HEARING FROM YOU)
7. Lindsay
8. Lynette (I NEED A DOSE OF YOUR WIT)
9. Sharla
10. Jobi
11. Kaeloni (CAUSE I KNOW YOU WANNA BE AS COOL AS YOUR BIG SIS)

For the record I wanted to tag Cindi, but Catey already did. So Cindi the pressure's on you twice as much! You're welcome!

We've Got Spirit - Day 2

2012-02-07T13:47:00.000-07:00

DAY 2: CRAZY ACCESSORY DAY

Okay, so being that I was up most of the night with a sad, hurting little 4 year old - I may have missed the fact that it was supposed to be CRAZY accessories this morning...AH WELL. Life goes on.

We've Got Spirit - Day 1

2012-02-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

I'll be the first to admit that I've never had school spirit. Okay, NEVER may be a bit too strong of a word. I was happy to go to the school I went to, I was also very happy I didn't have to attend our rival school - but the whole 'school spirit' thing kind of got lost on me.

So when it was SPIRIT WEEK at the schools I went to, I hardly ever participated. Mostly because I was (and still am) so self - conscious that dressing in silly ways was something I was NOT comfortable doing. So, it's kind of odd that I find it fun for my kids. I don't force them to do it, they all decide it on their own and they get excited about it.

So this year I decided I'd actually share how they dress everyday.

Yesterday, February 6th was the first day. The theme for the day was: DRESS AS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK CHARACTER....

(My kids may or may not use the term 'favorite' loosely...)

Tanis chose to be Greg from the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID book series. This is actually a favorite character for Tanis and he has really enjoyed these books.

Shaylyn chose to be a basilisk type creature that is similar to Medusa from a book her friend gave her. It is a Japanese themed book called PET SHOP OF HORRORS. It's basically like Gremlins where the mythical creatures come with a certain set of rules and if the rules aren't followed bad things happen.

Lex decided on Hubie from the TEACHERS FROM THE BLACK LAGOON series of books. I don't know that it's necessarily his favorite character, but it's a book he's really enjoyed. Next year I'm gonna convince him to be ALEXANDER from ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY! (HAHAHAHAHA!)

The Double Digits...

2012-01-31T14:10:00.000-07:00

Tanis, Shaylyn and their friend are convinced there's a curse with 10th birthdays. Their friend broke her foot on her 10th birthday and Tanis' 'curse' was that he spilled lunch all over himself (I don't remember that happening). I kept telling them it was hogwash, but now I'm thinking there may be some truth to it.

Yesterday was Shaylyn's 10th birthday and she woke up excited to see if a game she wanted had been downloaded for her (it wasn't). Well she woke up early - like 5:30 early. In so doing, she woke Ailey up. Ailey had gone to bed around 11 the night before so I KNEW she wasn't going to be a very happy girl that day. Not to mention the fact that all this woke me up and I hadn't gotten a lot of sleep either.

You know that saying, "If Mama Ain't Happy, Ain't No One Happy"? I am seeing more and more how true that is. Because I was so thrilled at being woke up at 5:30 in the morning, Eric felt my stress and got after the kids for getting up so early. (They were also fighting over who was playing).

So the morning started off with Shaylyn (and the boys) getting yelled at, Daddy being stressed and Mommy being ornery. Thankfully, Ailey came and laid down with me after the kids got in trouble and fell back asleep. Then so did I.

I woke up just in time to get Shaylyn's hair beautified and sent the kids off to school. Ailey was still sleeping and I decided I better clean the house so we could go to the store before the kids got home. We had an uneventful afternoon and got what we needed at the store.

Because of the crappy morning, I was adamant that I make the rest of Shaylyn's day nice. So I planned to make one of her favorite cookies, Chocolate Chip Cookies, but opted for M&M's instead of Chocolate Chips. She was so excited when she got home and saw what I was doing. But the 2 of the 3 batches cooked just a bit too long. She didn't care, but I don't like them that way.

I didn't harp on her to do her homework or clean her room. She did clean her room without being told to, though. She spent a good portion of the afternoon using her gift from aunt Kaeloni, uncle Cody and THE COUSINS.

I decided to make her Spaghetti & Meatballs for dinner. We've never had meatballs before because I am a very PICKY eater, but Shaylyn always asks for them when we have Spaghetti. I was able to find a recipe online that didn't call for anything I didn't like. (Okay, it called for onion soup - but i just omitted it) They turned out so yummy! Shaylyn enjoyed her dinner.

Then Eric asked the kids to help look for something. Shaylyn set about looking and ended up smashing her fingers. This was right before we gave her her presents, so now in her pictures she looks a little sad.

She loved her gifts and knew what 2 of them were, but being the person I am I wanted a way to document those gifts, so I made up little certificates and wrapped them in boxes with my stuffed animals. It made it fun for us all, I think.

So yes, there may be a 10th birthday curse, but I hope Shaylyn will choose to forget the early morning orneries and overbaked cookies and the smashed fingers. She seemed genuinely happy to have her gifts and totally wasn't expecting anything besides the video games.

I love this girl and her spunk. I will leave this post with a few pictures of Shaylyn from years past that I just love. (I may have gone a bit overboard...)

It's Scary How Fast A Year Goes By...

2012-01-31T12:42:00.004-07:00

So because Shaylyn was having a birthday - I decided I'd be on the ball this year with birthday parties, so the family party was on Sunday.

I made a slideshow of the pics from her 9th year. And if you have a half hour to spare, feel free to watch it. LOL! (I realize probably NO ONE is going to watch it - but hey, you never know.) And heck the soundtrack is AWESOME! ;)

-- So there's songs on the original vid that I guess artists haven't given the right to use on YouTube, so I created a playlist to go along with the video trying to match up the songs. I did have to make a few substitutions, but you'll still get the idea. So, I'd start the video and then the music player. But feel free to do it in whichever way you choose!--

We had a great turnout and Shaylyn was pleased with all of the gifts she received.

Daddy trying to steal the Swedish Fish as the 'birthday tax'...

This year she chose to have a 'bat' party. Well, that was the only request she really had. I did my best to oblige. I made my own digital scrapbook elements for her invite:

Then when we went to get decorations, she decided on the colors black and hot pink. It wen really well with the way I had done the invites. She chose to have chocolate cupcakes and we tried our best at making chocolate covered pretzel bats:

Not all of them turned out great, but I thought a few actually looked pretty good.

Tanis and Shaylyn painted the picture of a cake the night before. My big sister gave Shaylyn an easel, canvases and paint for Christmas and Shaylyn made good use of them.

Tanis even played Happy Birthday on his clarinet for Shaylyn.

Grandpa Hardy bought the wonderful musical flower candle for Shaylyn to blow out. I think Shaylyn had a great party.

Thanks to all who came and to everyone who's played such an important role in Shaylyn's life.

No Business Like Snow Business

2012-01-31T12:12:00.000-07:00

This winter has been an odd one, to say the least. We've had very few snow days and I'll be the first to tell you I was a little more than depressed that we had NO SNOW for Christmas. Now, I'm used to the fact that our area doesn't get a whole lot of snow - we're in an odd little pocket, but I can usually count on getting my winter snow quota by visiting our parents. It didn't happen.

I have a love/hate relationship with snow. I hate driving in it - scares the crap out of me, I hate being cold, and I hate how dirty it looks when it all slushy. But I love how Christmas lights look with snow surrounding them, I love how peaceful a sunny, freshly laid (unwalked in) snow looks, and I love how 'pure' it makes the world seem.

My kids have differing views. Tanis HATES the cold and doesn't really like being outside in the snow. Shaylyn LOVES the snow and will stay out in snow for hours on end. Lex is a fan of the snow and enjoys it quite a bit but doesn't last as long as Shaylyn. Nate's opinion on the subject varies from day to day. There are times he'll want to be out there in it, other days he'd much rather be inside. Ailey, well Ailey hadn't had the chance to explore the snow much in her life - until last Monday.

We had a night snow storm with snow that actually stuck. The kids kept bugging me to go outside and so I finally relented while we waited for Daddy to get home from work. I was curious to see how well Ailey would do. While she loves being outside she had never been outside in the snow. I was pleasantly surprised. She lasted almost as long as the older kids. She even lasted longer than Nate.

Guess both our girls are gonna be snow bunnies!

Truths For MATURE Humans...

2012-01-24T12:14:00.004-07:00

I found this on likepics.us (WARNING: there are a few risque pics there) and found it pretty funny, so I thought I'd be so kind and share it...

1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.
- So not applicable to me, but I still find it funny

2. Nothing sucks more than the moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.
- I NEVER have those moments.... ::cough,cough::

3. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

4. There is a GREAT need for a sarcasm font!
- Hallelujah!

5. How the HECK are you supposed to fold a FITTED sheet?
- I NEVER get it done the same way every time...

6. Was learning cursive REALLY necessary?

7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on #5. I'm PRETTY sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
- This one totally cracked me up. And on a good day I DO know how to get out of my neighborhood.

8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.

9. I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least a little bit tired.
- This is me 110%!

10. Bad decisions make GOOD stories!

11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.
- Even though I don't technically work I STILL have these moments. I had them when I did work as well....

12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blu-Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection...again!

13. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page technical report that I swear I did not make any changes to.

14. "Do not machine wash or tumble dry" means I will never wash this - ever!
- In my world it actually means, I will machine wash this - I won't put it in the dryer and we'll hope for the best...

15. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Oh crap!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voice mail. What did you do after I didn't answer? Drop the phone and run away?

16. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste!

17. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.
- I actually just have a different ringtone set for 'those' numbers...Mwahahaha!

18. I think the freezer deserves a light as well!

19. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lite than Kay.

20. I wish Google Maps had an 'avoid ghetto' routing option.

21. Sometimes, I'll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize I had no idea what the heck was going on the first time that I saw it.

22. I would rather try to carry 10 overloaded plastic bags in each hand than take 2 trips to bring my groceries in.

23. The only time I look forward to a red light is when I'm trying to finish a text.
- Or find a better song on my mp3 player...Oh, wait - I don't do those thing - I'm a safe driver....

24. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.- And that is where Lex gets it from...

25. How many times is it appropriate to say 'What?' before you just nod and smile because you still didn't hear or understand a word they said?

- This is so me...But I'm going deaf, so it's not totally my fault...

26. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters!

27. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.
- The person who originally wrote this must not have children. That being said this line really made me laugh!

28. Is it just me or do high school kids get dumber and dumber each year?
- I still love you, Logan

29. There's no worse feeling than the millisecond you're sure you're going to die after leaning your chair back a little too far.

30. As a driver I hate pedestrians. As a pedestrian I hate drivers. But no matter what the transportation, I always hate bicyclists.
- So sad to admit - but it's true!

31. Sometimes I'll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.

And thanks to my MIL - I own 2 of these 3 watches. I need to get on her about the 3rd!!!

32. Even under ideal conditions, people have trouble finding their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone and Pinning The Tail On The Donkey - but I'd bet my last dollar everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, EVERY TIME!

- Hahahahaha!!!! This would be me! I'm one of those people that when I use an alarm, I actually have to put it far enough away so I actually get out of bed to turn it off - otherwise it's just an annoyance and I slap it off and go right back to bed.

Now I Can Rest...

2012-01-09T17:05:00.000-07:00

So I got behind with getting the Christmas Posts made and all that fun stuff, but I am proud to say I just posted 4 today and that should bring me up to date.

I will apologize that it took so long, and of course I have excuses...

The days leading up to Christmas were spent on Christmas gifts and nursing pink eye that went all around the family.

After Christmas life got crazy trying to fit everything new into a place and experimenting with our new gifts.
Then came New Years and then I spent ALL OF LAST WEEK on the couch. I'm still not sure what was wrong with me all I know is that it hurt to move.

So, thankfully I am mostly back to normal now - I had some time and so I finished these posts just for you. Okay, I know - it's really just for me. ;)

But I can rest easily now!

Another Year Has Gone By

2012-01-09T17:00:00.000-07:00

So, Christmas is over. I'm sad. It's even all put away and that makes me even sadder. :(

But I shall spin a tell of our Christmas....

With the exception of 1, our kids all slept until 8:00. Crazy, right? I wasn't complaining. I was super tired and had been fighting something by downing tons of ibuprofen. So an 8:00 wake up call was just fine by me. We actually had to WAKE UP Ailey and she wasn't so happy about it.

The kids had a blast opening their presents and they were totally spoiled.

Tanis is getting to the ornery years and complained about every gift not being Lego Harry Potter Years 5 -7. He wasn't really complaining - he just kept saying, "This wasn't what I expected." Eric did give all the kids Lego Harry Potter to ALL the kids, but that was the last gift to get opened.

Shaylyn loved all the Monster High Stuff she got and has enjoyed putting make-up on everyday, much to her father's dismay.

Lex was the most grateful child and was excited with EVERY SINGLE thing he got. He made me happy.

Nate was good and just wanted every gift after he opened it. And Santa made a small mistake with him. Santa thought (s)he had ordered a gift, even thought (s)he had wrapped it and when Eric said numbers weren't adding up equally for all kids - Santa had to take a look and realized that (s)he never even ordered it. Thankfully he's only 3 and wasn't any wiser.

Ailey enjoyed unwrapping things and just wanted to rip paper off the gifts. She didn't quite understand the concept of a gift inside. She had a fun day though.

Eric surprised me with Dance Central 2 (I thought he bought me the new Glee karaoke game) and a Glee Piano book along with a Tangled Soundtrack Piano book.

We spent the next few hours enjoying our gifts and trying to get ready to go to Eric's parents house. Because I still wasn't feeling that great we skipped church. (We are HORRIBLE Christians, I know) Because I was still sick, we were even like an hour late to Eric's parents because I just couldn't get moving fast enough.

We had a wonderful lunch and enjoyed each other's company. The kids just wanted to get to their gifts. After lunch it was gift time.

For Ailey, Eric's parents had found a small little laptop thing that she really likes.
Nate got a pirate ship that he had been eyeing while we were at Kohl's with Grandma. Grandma secretly bought it that day and when Nate opened it on Christmas he actually said, "I WANTED this." Eric's mom was so happy that he had remembered and he was so excited by it.
The big kids got unlabeled cans. They were really confused. Grandpa told them to open them and inside was $50. The older kids were given $50 to spend on something they really wanted.
Eric's brother got Ailey a cute little Mickey Mouse doll that rocks out.
Nate & Lex got Remote Control cars that are AWESOME.
Shaylyn got some artsy things.
Tanis got a game for his DS.

Eric's parents had given me a camera the week before (so I could use it Christmas morning), some photo paper (kind of a running theme every year) and a new PURPLE watch!!! I was pleasantly surprised.

Eric was gifted with a new Router (which we also received early) and the last two Harry Potter movies on Blu-Ray!

After visiting for a bit more, we then headed to my parents house.

Now, I have lots of siblings and they gifted each of my kids with something and I don't remember everything. I do remember that my little sister copped out and bought a family gift (Love you, Kaeloni) and that was The Smurfs. It was a good gift even though it was a cop out.

My parents gave Eric and I a gift card to Coldstone, an Ice Cream Maker and a Soft Pretzel Maker. I was a bit mad at my mom for giving me gifts that'll fatten me up - but after using them both she is forgiven. ;)

I don't remember each present my parents got for my kids either - except that Ailey got a bike (Cousin M. got the same bike) and animal crackers and was more excited about the animal crackers than the bike.

We had a lot of fun with my family and we watched a video I made for my Mom about the year and I included the video I made for my grandma on there as well as the video I made for my brother who's living in France and wasn't able to come home for Christmas.

Eric played some game with the 'smarter' members of my family, while I played LOSER with my little sister, little brother (who lives in Wyoming) and Tanis and Shaylyn. It was fun and I ended up winning. It was a mean win, but whatever. We then headed home.

The next day we took it easy and played around with all our new toys. I TRIED to figure out where new gifts were going to go and clean up a bit. Around 4 we took the kids to Target to spend their money. Eric's parents had given the two little kids $10 so that they could buy something as well.

Tanis chose some Skylanders figures and Superhero Squinkies.
Shaylyn bought a Monster High Wii Game and some Lego Mini-Figs.
Lex bought 2 Transformer toys. A Transformer and Atlantis Legos.
Nathaniel got something I'm not remembering at the moment, but when Eric reminds me I'll edit this line. ;)
Ailey chose a Baby Belle doll. Seriously. Given the choice of her or Ariel, she chose Belle.

It was a good Christmas and it really went by too fast!

Christmas Eve Jammies

2012-01-09T16:16:00.001-07:00

I think I've mentioned before that my Mom and Grandma started a tradition in our family that lots of other families have. That is the Christmas Eve Pajamas.

My mom and Grandma usually sewed pajamas, but I am so not that great at sewing, so I don't even attempt it. I like having matching pj's, but that just wasn't going to happen, so I did my best.

I was able to find matching pj's for the girls, but not the boys. So for the boys I got them all pj bottoms (Lex and Nate matched) and they all got a white t-shirt that I painted a snowman on. So they all still sort of matched even when they didn't match 100%. I was happy enough.

Before we went to my Grandma's on Christmas Eve night we let the kids go crazy...

LIGHTS!!!

2012-01-09T15:52:00.003-07:00

It was getting close to Christmas and I was feeling so not in the spirit. I missed snow (strange, I know) and it just didn't feel like Christmas.

We had done the North Pole Express, but that was all we had really done as a family during the Christmas season, so I decided we should go see the lights at Thanksgiving Point. I knew Eric wouldn't be thrilled (he's kind of a Scrooge), but he took us anyway.

It helped to get me in the mood of Christmas. It was snowing the night we went. WHOOT! But that made it a bit difficult to get good pictures. I took some and I'm sharing what I liked.

While the price was more than I would've like to pay for such a 'cheap thrill', the look on Nate & Ailey's faces made it totally worth it. Still glad we did it and got out of the house for a couple hours.

... They're Not Exited. AT.ALL. ...

... I Just ♥ Her! ...

... I Loved This Set Of Lights. The Penguin Slips Off The Igloo And Lands On His Head. It Honestly Made Me Laugh Out Loud. ...

... A Tulip IN DECEMBER!?!?!?! YAY!!! ...

... He Thinks He's A Goat ...

... My BEAUTIFUL Pink-Eye That Lex So Lovingly Shared With Me ...

Sounds Of The Season

2012-01-09T15:23:00.003-07:00

I am so afraid of what the next few years will bring with extracurricular activities.

During the Christmas season Tanis had a band performance one day and Shaylyn had a choir performance the next day. Crazy things. Thankfully it worked out just so and we were able to attend both with no issues.

We had Tanis join Pony Band which is held at the middle school/jr. high. The band leader there takes 5th and 6th graders from the schools that will feed into the jr. high and does a band with these kids. This means that come next year when Tanis is actually IN Jr. High (So not looking forward to that day) he'll be able to go into intermediate band instead of beginning band.

It's been a good thing for him and it's given him a sense of accomplishment. He looks forward to practice every Monday and Wednesday and has picked up the clarinet pretty well. I can't even make a sound come out of the stupid thing. We figured the clarinet was a good instrument to start with because in a few years (if he chooses to) he can move to the saxophone quite easily. Eric also played the clarinet in 5th grade band.

The next day Shaylyn had a choir performance. The elementary school usually does A Christmas Carol and Shaylyn had said at the beginning of the year that she wanted to sign up. Well, they didn't do the play for whatever reason and just stuck with a choir instead. Shaylyn still signed up. She had practice every Wednesday throughout November and December and was so excited to be a part of something like this. She was even more excited that her 'boyfriend' Gavin and best friend Lorelei were in it with her. She was doubly excited to be able to stand by each of them for the actual performance.

Here's the video for the music along with a few notes....
#1. Tanis is in the second row with a red and green hat. He's the one that bobs his head while he plays. We'll work on that. ;)
#2. My camera is stupid when it comes to videos. It takes a few seconds to register the sound, so some of the sound is cut off.
#3. At certain points I 'forgot' that I was filming and sang along. I apologize!
#4. During the song Feliz Navidad I move the camera to 3 boys in sombrero's. The two boys on the very end were Scouts of mine a couple years ago and they were some of the funnest boys ever. So I wanted to get their antics on the video.
#5. ENJOY!!!

Some Romance Advice...

2011-12-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

So I have a few posts I should be making about Christmas, gifts, etc. Typical things about the season, but I need to forego that for a day or so.

My heart is super heavy at the moment. This past weekend I heard of another divorce happening to one of the coolest couples I knew. This is just one of many I've heard about lately and it broke my heart. I don't know all the details, nor do I need/want to know - I just know that it's sad. You start thinking about all the people one divorce affects and the way it all trickles down is amazing.

Let me just say I DO NOT believe that ALL MARRIAGES SHOULD or CAN be saved. But I believe that with the right amount of work and sacrifice there are quite a few that COULD be saved.

Thankfully, I've never had to deal with a divorce first hand, or up close and personal - but I've been a witness to quite a few relationship that were headed down that road and for whatever reason it just never progressed that far. In some cases it was a good thing, in some cases it's been a bad thing because they STILL haven't worked out their issues - they just skirt around them.

Anyway, since hearing about this last divorce I've kept thinking I need to put down 'on paper' the things that Eric and I have learned and are still learning about keeping a marriage alive and healthy. Now I'll be THE FIRST to say our relationship ISN'T PERFECT. It's a PRETTY AWESOME relationship, but it ISN'T perfect.

A lot of you may think that Eric and I haven't really ever had any major real trials come in the way of our marriage and while I won't go into details, there's been something that has plagued our marriage almost from day one. And it is something that has torn families apart, but because of what Eric and I have learned and what we try to live day to day it's kept us together. It isn't easy. It's a struggle. But I've found that because we live the following things it makes it EASIER!

I want to say FLAT OUT that I AM NOT calling ANYONE OUT! I AM NOT judging ANY ONE ELSE'S relationships. I am just sharing things I've learned by observation and by TONS of trial and error!

And no, I'm not a marriage counselor. No, I've not been schooled in anything remotely related to anything of this nature. I'm just offering advice and hoping SOMEONE gains something from it. This is mostly made to help my children or grandchildren along the way as this blog serves as my journal. That being said, here's some things I've learned:

COMMUNICATE: This is THE BIGGEST help in keeping your relationship alive. Everything comes back to communication. This has also proven to be the most difficult for me.

I'm the type of person who avoids confrontation, so in an argument I am apt to walk away, stew about it on my own time, on my own terms and then I'm good. This doesn't work so well for Eric. And it really isn't a good way to solve things.

While I've gotten over whatever little things (and yes, it usually is a bunch of little things) set me off - Eric is still left wondering what it was he did and what he can do to make sure it doesn't happen again. When I walk away without talking and then solve the issue in my head - Eric is still left with unresolved feelings. So while I'm back to being perfectly content, my spouse isn't. That is a problem.

Unfortunately for me Eric HAS to talk things out. He HAS to have resolution. As much as I've HATED this throughout the years (Yes, I do HATE it) I realize how IMPORTANT this has become to keeping our marriage IN TACT!

Half the time when I think I've resolved some issue in my head, I realize I really haven't. More than likely I've just set it aside to worry about at another time.

Communicating my issues with my spouse has saved us a number of times.

BE GENEROUS WITH HIS TIME: This is a situation that may be different when your husband isn't the bread winner in the family. Keep that in mind.

Here's another one that took me a few years to learn and it was learned the hard way.

Your husband spends 40+ hours a week WORKING to provide for your needs and your WANTS! Keep that in mind. Most of his day is spent traveling, working at whatever job he's chosen (even if he really enjoys his job there are days that this is difficult), just to come home and then provide emotional support for his wife and children. He has very little time for HIM! Do NOT be selfish with that time.

GIVE HIM time to do things to discover himself, to stay himself, to do the things HE enjoys doing. Too many times I see wives micromanaging their husbands schedules from sun up to sun down. I hate it. I feel bad for those men and really annoyed at the women who do it.

Yes, your husband should spend time with you AND with his children. Yes, he should fulfill his duties at home as well as he does at work, but NO he should not be so scheduled that he doesn't even know if he's coming or going. Or scheduled to the point that he can't even REMEMBER what he enjoys doing.

However, this doesn't mean you should let your husband do whatever he wants, every day when he gets home from work, but it does mean you should give him plenty of time to do the things he would LIKE to do. He will be a much more fulfilled and happy man if you give him HIS time.

BE IN AGREEMENT ABOUT HOW SPARE TIME IS SPENT: It's pretty much a non-spoken 'rule' in this house that one night out with the guys or one night out with the girls a week is cool. No questions asked, no gripes made. Anything above and beyond that needs to be discussed. (See that communication comes ups again)

COMPROMISE: So you may not be thrilled that the hubby wants to go out with the guys 2x's in a week. Compromise somehow.

In our house it's often that if he helps get the kids settled down before he goes, and he promises to answer his phone and come home if I really need him, then I am good to let him go again.

Now he's good on these occasions to purposely plan going out a little bit later. Instead of leaving as soon as he gets home from work, they decided on a time around 8:00 pm - when kids should be getting ready for bed and going to bed anyway.

BE TOGETHER EVEN IF YOU'RE NOT TOGETHER: I probably could've found a better way to say that, but I'm leaving it as it is.

This simply means that even if you're both off doing your separate things, try to do them in the same room. Eric and I have become masters at this.

I tend to get lonely and I need Eric AROUND. Even if we aren't doing the same thing I like that he's in earshot and eyeshot so we can still chat and 'be together.'

TAKE AN INTEREST IN EACH OTHER'S INTERESTS: This one makes me laugh sometimes. This is all how Eric got me playing World Of Warcraft years ago (don't play that often) and most of the time how I find new favorite TV Shows.

Even when you don't find that you are particularly interested in his interests, at least engage him in conversation about it. Be excited when he's excited. Tell him you're sorry when things don't go the way he wants. LISTEN.

This is another two way street. Eric probably has no idea what the difference is between a mat and matte. Probably doesn't know what I mean by tactile scrapbooking or hybrid scrapbooking. He doesn't even care much for pictures and groans when his mom or I want to take them. However, he does appreciate the pages I make with those pictures. He's even got the one I made with the little girls serving as his wallpaper at work right now.

Guess how good I felt when I saw that....

MAKE TIME FOR HIM: In my world as soon as he walks through the door at night, I stop what I'm doing. I greet him (he'd say I don't always, but I try), we have dinner and then we are together.

We usually catch up on tv shows or watch a movie, but whatever we do it's TOGETHER. I set aside my nights to be with him. I have most of the day for 'my' stuff, but we don't have a lot of time together so we make sure our nights count!

DON'T TALK BAD ABOUT HIS FAMILY OR FRIENDS: This isn't always easy to do and sometimes people really just can't get a long. If you are in such a situation just keep your bad feelings to yourself. If you HAVE to discuss a family member or friend of his that's really upsetting you, find someone else to talk with.

Don't make him choose between you and family.

Of course if there's a MAJOR issue you should talk with your spouse, but if it's something like, "Man, your dad is such a loser...", keep it to yourself or talk with someone NOT related to that person.

GO TO BED AT THE SAME TIME: I grew up in a house where my Dad went to bed at the stroke of 10 pm (He liked his sleep, guess where I got that from) and my Mom would stay up until she finished all she had on her 'check-list.'

I didn't want that kind of relationship.

For the most part Eric and I go to bed at the same time. There are occasions where that doesn't happen, but we try. Some of the best conversations we've had have been at bed time. There are no other distractions around and the kids are asleep in bed. It's a good time for meaningful conversations.

ASK FOR WHAT YOU NEED/WANT: Men really do have a one-track mind. They can concentrate on one thing and that's it. They really are oblivious at times and don't always 'see' what needs to happen. Don't expect them to know exactly what you need or want them to do.

You need to make sure they are listening to you and then ask for what you want or need.

This is another one I still struggle with. I have a hard time believing he can't just hear what's going on and solve it, but he doesn't. He tends to focus on the one thing he's doing and that's that. But when I ask him for help, he's willing to do it.

..........

So those are just a few things I've learned in 13 years of marriage. I know others probably have tons more they could add to this, but this is just a quick list from my brain so that I can rest a bit easier knowing I shared my knowledge with my children and so on....

Santa Claus Done Did Come To Town...

2011-12-19T15:41:00.000-07:00

So last week on FB (Facebook can be such a wonderful thing!) a friend posted that Santa would be coming to her house the next day (Thursday) for an hour or so. She invited everyone over. I told her that I would go. Then I forgot.....

Thankfully, I remembered Thursday morning....WHEW! I would've hated myself for forgetting something like that.

So when the appointed time came we headed over. We were a bit late cause we had to wait for Shaylyn to get done with Knowledge Bowl, but luck was on our side and we arrived at the same time as SANTA!!!

There were sugar cookies to decorate and a line for Santa. I was glad it was a very intimate gathering so the line wasn't that long...I think I earned extra points with my kiddos this day! And we all know Moms and Dads can use extra points this time of year!

All Abordt

2011-12-19T15:31:00.002-07:00

So, if you - like some of my kids, didn't get the whole idea of where Granny's Countdown was going, I'll tell you.

We went on the North Pole Express! Of course they couldn't call it The Polar Express due to copyright infringement and all that wonderful stuff, but it's basically the same thing. The title of this post comes from the way my cute little nephew would YELL that phrase last year. It was HILARIOUS!

Way back in October my older sister asked us if we were interested in doing The Polar Express thing in Heber for Christmas. I knew it would be expensive for our family, but I also thought it would be worth it. After talking with Eric we found where the money would come from and we were all set to go.

Like I said at the beginning of Granny's Countdown posts, I was going to keep it a secret from the kids until we got there, but it worked out okay having them know ahead of time. They were all so excited and cooperated to get ready.

It also worked out to keep them mostly well behaved while we had to get a tire fixed on the way to Heber. I had gotten a screw in the back tire and it was losing pressure slowly. Neither Eric nor I felt comfortable driving to Heber on a tire like that.Thankfully the weather was clear and so we got there in plenty of time.
It was a cold, cold night, but I think the excitement helped keep the kids warm while we waited to board the train.

As we got on the train we got special silver tickets, the kids got nametags, a lady came around and took a family picture. After the first little bit on the train we were given chocolate chip cookies. A little later on the train we got cups of Hot Chocolate. We got to the North Pole (by going South - hehehehe) and decided Santa looked a little cold, so we picked him up and he rode back to the train station with us.

Santa started to immediately visit with each of the kids, called them by name and gave them a special little bell. The look on my kids faces was worth the money. The look of such wonder, excitement and happiness. I wouldn't trade that FOR THE WORLD!

We sang Christmas carols on the way back. Tanis was chosen to hold a number sign for the 12 Days Of Christmas as was Shaylyn or maybe cousin T. I'm not sure exactly - I just know Shaylyn ended up holding it up. The lady that took our pictures came back and gave us the pictures she took. Only to THEN come back and ask if we wanted to buy any! I hate when companies do that - though I did think it odd they'd just 'give' us pictures. Thankfully, my husband knows how important pictures are to me and forked out the $12 for a mediocre quality picture. But hey, it's a good family picture!

We had such a fun night, made wonderful memories and I'm so glad to have had the experience. We even had fun trying to find our way home that night. GPS can be confusing at times... :)

My one regret that night is that we didn't get a picture of all the cousins in their matching jammies. Perphaps one of these days.....

Anyway, here's a few of our fave pictures from the night:
(In no real semblance of an order)

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 10 - December 10

2011-12-19T14:57:00.000-07:00

THE GIFT:

IT'S:

A PICTURE FRAME & TRAIN ORNAMENTS

GRANNY SAYS: "Design your own 'BELIEVE' frame and then add your 'Polar Express' picture to it! You can use paint, markers, or even rubber stamps. Looking forward to traveling with you! HAVE FUN! Love ya!"

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 9 - December 9

2011-12-19T14:48:00.003-07:00

THE GIFT:

IT'S:

MATCHING PJ'S

GRANNY SAYS: "Matching pajama's to wear on the ride. I hope they warm you clear to the inside. See all of you tomorrow, grandma's joy and pride.
Remember not to wear them until tomorrow!"

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 32

2011-12-14T13:55:00.000-07:00

And I've reached the end! Yay!!!!
Even though this was a fun game, it was way too time consuming...I'm glad it's over, as the rest of you probably are too... And guess what? I'm making it short and sweet...

~ 2010 ~

1. Need You Now - Lady Antebellum
Sappy love song. I love it. Plus, minus the whole being drunk part - there was a time I needed Eric at an odd hour...It makes me think of him... Awww.

2. Whataya Want From Me - Adam Lambert
Okay, so one of the last seasons I watched of American Idol - Adam was on. I actually liked his voice, but thought he was always flamboyant. I'm still glad he's gone as far as he has and I love this song. Another song I could've written!

3. Just The Way You Are - Bruno Mars
At first I was upset that someone would DARE to use the same title as Billy Joel and it was OUR song they used....I've repented. I really like this song and I wish (listen up, Eric) someone would say they like me even with all my flaws...(hint,hint)

Honorable Mention #1. Hey, Soul Sister - Train
Don't really have a reason for liking this song. I just do. Tanis does as well. I pass wonderful things off to my children. ;)

Honorable Mention #2. Bad Romance - Lady Gaga
Okay, no real reason for liking this song....I'm odd, I guess.

Honorable Mention #3. Cooler Than Me - Mike Posner
Some people...No one's cooler than me. ;) HAHAHA
So this is the first time I've watched this video and this guy reminds me of my bro-in-law with his sunglasses on...
Really starts at around 1:00

Honorable Mention #4. Only Girl - Rihanna
Are you listening Eric???? Pay attention!
Just saying what I want.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 31

2011-12-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

This is quite possibly the heaviest hitting year...I don't know for sure. I'm too lazy to look.

~ 2009 ~

1. Please Don't Leave Me - P!nk
So many lyrics in this song appeal to me. I can be a very mean fighter (Eric will fully vouch for me on that one), yet I feel bad after I say what I say and I really don't know why I even do it.

2. Gotta Be Somebody - Nickelback
Growing up I was convinced I'd never date and therefore never get married. I always wished for a movie romance, but figured it'd never happen. Thankfully my life turned out much differently, but I remember having these feelings and my heart breaks when I hear this song because I think of my wonderful big sister who wants this life as well, but hasn't been blessed to have it.
(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/Q0VRj2uw9L0

3. White Horse - Taylor Swift
Besides the fact that I love horses and a white horse would be AWESOME, this song isn't that cut and dry. I told you I have a mean streak in me and sometimes it is too late to change the past and some of us are able to move on even when it hurts.

4. I Do Not Hook Up - Kelly Clarkson
A song I wish more girls would take to heart...

5. You Belong With Me - Taylor Swift
Okay, so let's say this song is sorta the way my relationship started with Eric. He was kinda/sorta dating his next door neighbor and then when he fell for me (Yes, he totally FELL) he never broke it off with the other girl and she was certainly quite opposite of me.

Honorable Mention #1. Just Dance - Lady Gaga
I've always wanted to be a dancer, but I'm afraid that's not where my talents lay. But I like the point of the song that no matter what's going on, just dance and you can forget about life for awhile.

Honorable Mention #2. Poker Face - Lady Gaga
So it may look like I'm a huge fan of Lady Gaga...Not so. I just happen to like some of her songs and I think she has talent as far as lyrics go. Which is why I like this song.

Honorable Mention #3. I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho) - Pitbull
I have Dance Central to thank for this one. I also think I enjoy song with a latin flair more than I thought I did. This song is just fun. I like it.

Honorable Mention #4. My Life Would Suck Without You - Kelly Clarkson
I mean this in all seriousness - every one of you that is reading this, this song is dedicated to you! Take the lyrics as they are and that's what you mean to me. Especially if you're still looking at this post!

Honorable Mention #5. Paparazzi - Lady Gaga
It took a few listens before I found out this was a Lady Gaga song. I like it, so sue me. (Song really starts at about 2:30)

Honorable Mention #6. The Climb - Miley Cyrus
Somehow this song was taken from my head. There are so many things I'd like to try but because I'm scared of failure, I don't do it. One of these days I'll learn that the important part of it was that I tried...

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 30

2011-12-12T13:09:00.002-07:00

So, this year I must've been crazy into music cause this is a LOOOONG list...

~2008~

1. Better In Time - Leona Lewis
With enough time any pain can heal. Love the piano in this and the lyrics.

2. So What - P!nk
On the outside everything is totally fine, but when you get inside, you'll know it's not really.

(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/lUvYR2ZYjVY

3. Leavin' - Jesse McCartney
This is so bad that I like this song. He's totally telling the girl to leave her current flame. Oh well, I can still like a song w/o liking the message, right???

4. See You Again - Miley Cyrus
For the record, I'm not a huge fan of Miley, but she's made some good songs. I like this one because as an awkward teenager I felt this way many times.

5. Viva La Vida - Coldplay
I love, love, love all that's going on with this song. It got me from the first listen.

Honorable Mention #1. Bleeding Love -Leona Lewis
Lyrics, again. Plus I like the melody.

Honorable Mention #2. Damaged - Danity Kane
So this is a song I just found on my computer one day thanks to my little sister. It's actually a pretty good song and one I can relate with. That guy, B from 9th grade really, really, really hurt me bad. Thankfully, T came around and taught me that not every guy is a complete and total jerk!

(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/P8IBg0mVJ5Y

Honorable Mention #3. Hot N Cold - Katy Perry
Lyrics are a big one for me with this one. And I'm gonna be in trouble, but this song reminds me of Eric on his bad days. I still love you, I PROMISE!!!

Honorable Mention #4. Love Story - Taylor Swift
Another song totally reminiscent of how Eric and I were in High School. It's funny to think about it now.

Honorable Mention #5. 7 Things - Miley Cyrus
Break-ups suck. And sadly there are still things you'll miss about the ex...Life is sad that way.

Honorable Mention #6. Teardrops On My Guitar - Taylor Swift
So, um - yeah. In High School (before Eric) I met this guy, C. C and I became really good friends and I could talk with him about anything. I developed a bit of a crush for awhile, but he was crazy in love with his current wife J. It was hard, but I eventually got over the crush and C became one of my very best friends and I could talk with him about ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 29

2011-12-12T12:54:00.003-07:00

~2007~

1. Who Knew - P!nk
This song makes me think of the friends I've lost throughout the years as well as my Grandpa & Grandma. You just never know when life will take an unexpected turn.

2. Keep Holding On - Avril Lavigne
Another song of good advice. Find it kind of funny it came from her though.

3. Don't Matter - Akon
Another song that so eerily reminds me of the relationship Eric and I had in High School and all the people who were 'against' us. But as the song says, it didn't matter!

Honorable Mention #1. What I've Done - Linkin Park
A cool, haunting melody along with great lyrics.

Honorable Mention #2. Girlfriend - Avril Lavigne
A fun song and one that I relate to on some level. I told you I have a bit of a mean streak in me.

Honorable Mention #3. Before He Cheats - Carrie Underwood
Hahaha. Love that she gets back at the loser by ruining his car. Take note, Eric. ;0)

Honorable Mention #4. Big Girls Don't Cry - Fergie
Eric HATES this song. Me I like it. We've pretty much agreed to disagree with this song. I think part of why I like this song is because it's 'easy' for me to sing. I also like the lyrics.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 28

2011-12-12T12:25:00.003-07:00

~2006~

1. Everytime We Touch - Cascada
Just a fun upbeat song that ALWAYS makes me think of Eric. I'm a bit sappy, I know.

2. Jesus, Take The Wheel - Carrie Underwood
There are so many times in my life when I have felt this way. I was just 'done'. I needed the help of my Heavenly Father to get me through.

3. Savin' Me - Nickelback
I just can't get away from Nickelback. They are one of Eric's fave bands, so we hear a lot of them in this house. This song really makes you think. Love it!

Honorable Mention #1. Hips Don't Lie - Shakira
Another song that got me because of the beat.

Honorable Mention #2. Because Of You - Kelly Clarkson
This song makes me sad when I really think about what it's saying. But it's because of how heartfelt and true this song is that makes me like it.

Honorable Mention #3. How To Save A Life - The Fray
Lyrics got me for this one. Totally had to stop watching this video today...So you know.

Honorable Mention #4. Crazy - Gnarls Barkley
Another fun song. See, I know how to have fun sometimes too!

(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/bd2B6SjMh_w

A Wicked Cup Of Cocoa

2011-12-09T21:23:00.004-07:00

Is what I need after all the posts I just made....

I've been busy with holiday projects, holiday decorating and the day to day of life. Lately the two little kids have been crazy. They are mean to each other, fight all day long and rarely take naps at the same time. Yeah it's been busy.

But for the sake of keeping 'my journal' I had to make the following posts:

* MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOURS
* READ OF THE BEST BOOKS
* A PLACE TO REST YOUR HEAD
* JINGLE BELLS
* SUGARPLUM FAIRY
* ELFIN' AROUND
* SERVICE WITH A SMILE
* THE MOST FAMOUS REINDEER
* THE SHOW MUST GO ON

Now let me state for the record a few things...

FAMILY PICTURES

Nathaniel REFUSED to get his picture taken alone
Nathaniel pretty much REFUSED to do anything until Sava coaxed him with something I can't even remember.
Ailey didn't want a picture with me, thus there isn't one

COUNTDOWN THIS & THAT

Ailey doesn't like getting her hair done and likes to pull it out. Therefore, most of those pictures make her look like an orphan.
My kids don't all like to cooperate at the same time, thus we hardly ever have a 'group' photo.
I do Shaylyn's hair DAILY, but for whatever reason she seems to enjoy taking it out right before we do the countdown.
My kids always look goofy in these pictures, but it makes it fun for me. They show their true personalities.

And now that I've accomplished this - I need to go do some laundry that I've been slacking on and then I think I may just make myself a wicked cup of cocoa!

That's a line from a movie, if you can figure it out - let me know... ;)

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 8 - December 8

2011-12-09T21:18:00.002-07:00

THE GIFT:

IT'S:

THE POLAR EXPRESS MOVIE

GRANDMA SAYS: "Take a break and watch the movie together. Here is some popcorn and hot chocolate to enjoy while you watch."

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 7 - December 7

2011-12-09T21:09:00.002-07:00

THE GIFT:

WHAT THE HECK IS IT?:

IT'S:

A REINDEER CRAFT

GRANDMA SAYS: "Have fun creating another one of Santa's helpers.
Then, on Christmas Eve you can give the reindeer a treat. Included is some "reindeer dust."
Sprinkle the dust on your lawn before you go to bed.

Expecting a visit from Santa?
Here is a recipe I have found,
It is a special reindeer food
You sprinkle on the ground.
The oatmeal is for energy,
The sparkles are for flight,
So sprinkle the reindeer food
On Christmas Eve night!
All of Santa's reindeer
Love this healthy snack.
Next year Santa and his reindeer
Surely will be back."

A PICTURE JUST BECAUSE IT'S SO CUTE:

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 6 - December 6

2011-12-09T21:05:00.003-07:00

THE GIFT:

IT'S:

SERVICE BELLS

GRANDMA SAYS: "Do an act of service in secret for a neighbor or a friend. Attach a little bell with a message that says, 'FROM THE POLAR EXPRESS.' Maybe some homemade cookies, a store bought treat or a little note would bring a smile to their faces. Perhaps this dish may help. There are plenty of bells so you can do more than one service."

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 5 - December 5

2011-12-09T20:59:00.004-07:00

THE GIFT:

IT'S:

SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER

GRANDMA SAYS: "Santa couldn't get ready for Christmas without the help of his elves. Put on your elf hat and find out what you can do to help your Mom and Dad get ready for Christmas. Being 'GOOD' is a start.

I think my kids may have missed that last part....The last few days have been interesting to say the least...Hmmm.

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 4 - December 4

2011-12-09T20:55:00.003-07:00

THE GIFT:

IT WAS:

CANDY & CHRISTMAS CAROLS

GRANDMA SAYS: "In the story the children eat candy and sing Christmas carols. Spend some time tonight singing Christmas carols and enjoying treats with your family."

Guess what? We actually sorta did this. We listened to Christmas songs on the way to Eric's parents, we sang along some of the time and we ate some candy!!!

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 3 - December 3

2011-12-09T20:47:00.002-07:00

So these pictures were taken by the back door and not the tree. Odd, huh?

There's a reason.

Eric decided to have the guys over to celebrate his birthday and well the guys were here till about 11 at night. They were also playing in front of the tree. Rude, huh? ;)

THE GIFT:

IT'S:

A BELL FROM SANTA'S SLEIGH

GRANDMA SAYS: "The bell is a symbol of the true spirit of Christmas. It lies within your heart. Only 'believers' can hear the sound of the bell, it encourages them to do good deeds for others. Listen...can YOU hear the bell? The big bell is your family service bell. It should remind you to do nice things for your family."

MY MODELS:

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 2 - December 2

2011-12-09T20:40:00.004-07:00

I have to be honest, we actually missed the 2nd day. I had a rough day and Eric decided to take me out to a movie. By the time we got home most of the kids were asleep so we opted to do Day 2 and 3 on Day 3....

THE GIFT:

OPENING:

IT'S:

PERSONALLY DESIGNED HOLIDAY PILLOWCASE

GRANDMA SAYS: "You are invited to come to Grandma's and design your own pillowcase. (Remember to bring your mom.)"

This was supposed to happen this past weekend, but my dear Mother forgot she had stuff to do for work the day we had planned, so it's yet to happen. Of course I'll be posting the kids' creations when it's done!

Granny's Christmas Countdown: Day 1 - December 1

2011-12-09T20:28:00.004-07:00

We've had a surprise planned for the kids for a couple months now. It's a surprise that's going to be carried out with the rest of my family (my mom & dad, siblings, nieces, nephews...). I had planned to keep it a surprise until the day of the event, but my mom had to one up me!

If you've read this blog for a few years you'll remember that for the past few years my Mom has done a Christmas Countdown thing for my kids. This year she decided to do it leading up to our big surprise.

It started on December 1 and will finish on December 10. Here it begins...

THE BOX:

AFTER LETTING THE KIDS GET TO THE BOX:

HERE'S THE SURPRISE!!!:

AND OPENING GIFT FOR DAY #1:

IT'S:

THE POLAR EXPRESS BOOK

GRANDMA SAYS: "We hope you will read this book with your family tonight and start looking forward to your Polar Express adventure this holiday season."

We read the book that night and then discovered that there is a CD included in the book with Liam Neeson reading the book. I don't usually like being read to but I may just have to listen to Liam Neeson's reading. :D

Holiday Pictures

2011-12-09T20:18:00.002-07:00

As I've mentioned before, every Christmas season Eric's mom likes to get family photos of us. She's decided it's much more cost effective to take them herself and print the ones off that she likes. She's been good to use a family picture of us every year on her little Christmas newsletter that she sends to her friends.

Me? I SHOULD do a cute little card every year or some type of newsletter, but I'm just lazy and cheap. I don't wanna buy stamps when I don't really need to. I'm sorry.

However, because I still ♥ all of you so very much I decided to still share our pics. This year I had a BUNCH that I actually liked, so I'm not going to post each picture. I decided to make a quick video instead.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Hardy's! Enjoy!!!

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 27

2011-12-09T14:04:00.002-07:00

~2005~

1. Cool - Gwen Stefani

So this pretty much describes the relationship I ended up having with my ex-boyfriend, T. Immediately after the break-up and for a good year or so after our relationship was strained to say the least. Poor Eric had a class with the guy and Eric said T was always staring him down.
We eventually made amends and have since been able to be friends again.

2. Photograph - Nickelback
The hold Eric has over me...I don't know what to say. This song plays on all the facets of remembering childhood and looking back at photos. If you know me AT ALL you know that pictures are kind of 'my thing' and we don't really have a blank wall anywhere in the home.

3. Behind These Hazel Eyes - Kelly Clarkson
Another song I just relate to and not just for the fact that I have hazel eyes. It's more the fact that I tend to hide what's really going on inside.

4. Don't Cha - Pussycat Dolls
What can I say? Sometimes I wished I could be the type of girl that other men would want, even if I was already taken....BUT I am so glad I'm not really and I haven't had to have that experience....

5. Lonely No More - Rob Thomas
I'm a huge believer in actions speaking louder than words!!!

Honorable Mention #1. Feel Good, Inc - The Gorillaz
This song just makes me feel good. Liked it from the first listen - still like it. Although I do realize there's some not so nice words in it.

Honorable Mention #2. Lonely - Akon
I like that Akon took an old song and helped make it more up to date. Mr. Lonely was I song I heard because of my Mom and I always liked it - so I really enjoyed it when Akon took it and used it for part of his song.

Honorable Mention #3. Since U Been Gone - Kelly Clarkson
I have a bit of a mean, rebellious side. It's true.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 26

2011-12-08T16:29:00.004-07:00

~2004~

1. Someday - Nickelback
Sometimes I'm glad Eric got me listening to these guys. This is one of the reasons I'm glad. Such a good song about forgetting the past. Warning: sad video - have tissues ready!

2. I Go Back - Kenny Chesney
For a few years I listened to country pretty heavily. That has since died down, but I still like these songs. I tend to enjoy songs that talk about the past, this is one such song.

3. The Reason - Hoobastank
Everyone needs to find that certain reason for living.

4. My Immortal - Evanescence
Another wonderful haunting melody. I also love the lyrics in this song and it usually makes me cry.

5. This Love - Maroon 5
Another group I have Eric to thank for getting me into. One of the 1st songs I heard from these guys and it's just always stuck with me.

Honorable Mention #1. 100 Years - Five For Fighting
Life goes by way too fast, as this song portrays...

Honorable Mention #2. Live Like You Were Dying - Tim McGraw
Another country song. I love the advice in this song because you never really know when your time on this earth is gonna be up.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 25

2011-12-07T20:26:00.002-07:00

~2003~

1. My Front Porch Looking In - Lonestar
I don't think there's a parent alive that can't relate to this song in some way. There are times I just sit back and watch what's going on in my house and I am literally so very happy I could burst!

2. Bring Me To Life - Evanescence
Something about the haunting melody pulled me into this song. I still like it and it has since become one of Shaylyn's favorites. The things we do to our children. ;)

3. If You're Not The One - Daniel Bedingfield
Eric would kill me if I didn't include this song. When it came out he kept telling me that he always thought of me when it came on.

4. No Shoes, No Shirts, No Problems - Kenny Chesney
Kenny's back. Was there any doubt? This song just makes me happy and a little bit frustrated that I'm not on some tropical island relaxing my life away!

5. What Was I Thinkin' - Dierks Bentley
Another song that's good for a laugh. The video's pretty good too...Typical male hormones.

Honorable Mention #1. 19' Something - Mark Wills
Go back and try to remember your childhood and the big things that happened. That's what this song is all about.

Honorable Mention #2. Unwell - Matchbox 20

(Embedding Disabled)
http://youtu.be/WziA88-n02k

Honorable Mention #3. The Remedy (I Won't Worry) - Jason Mraz

Honorable Mention #4. The Game Of Love - Michelle Branch ft. Santana
It's the hopeless romantic coming out again.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 24

2011-12-06T11:19:00.002-07:00

~2002~

1. The Middle - Jimmy Eat World
Another song I relate with. Also full of good advice. (The video is objectionable - but at the end there is a good point to it all...)

2. In The End - Linkin Park
A genre I don't normally listen to, but this song is somewhat deep. Just recently became aware of this song again and because of what's going on it means that much more.

3. How You Remind Me - Nickelback
My husband is mean. He makes me listen to things like this and then I end up liking it. It's all his fault, blame him!

4. My List - Toby Keith
How often do we let things on 'our list' get taken care of before we take care of the people around us that need us most? Told you I'm a country girl at heart...

5. Whenever, Wherever - Shakira
Another song with an ethnic flair that I normally wouldn't like, but for whatever reason I like this song.

Honorable Mention #1. Dilemma - Nelly Featuring Kelly Rowland
Another genre that I don't normally care for, but when I heard this song I really liked it. I know there's not a whole lot lyrically to it, but I still like it.

Honorable Mention #2. Gotta Get Thru This - Daniel Bedingfield

Honorable Mention #3. Can't Fight The Moonlight - LeAnn Rimes

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 23

2011-12-05T16:36:00.002-07:00

Nope, the world didn't end. Sorry... :(

~2001~

1. Who I Am - Jessica Andrews
I just really understood this song and it pretty much described my life. For a bit more detail you can revisit this post.

2. I'm Already There - Lonestar
I'm a sucker for parents talking about their kids and I'm lucky that I have a hubby who says things like this to me on those hard days!

3. Austin - Blake Shelton
I love the fact that this romance lasts so long and that he NEVER gives up hope.
(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/bb1DTsxBOfE

4. Love Don't Cost A Thing - Jennifer Lopez

5. One More Day - Diamond Rio
Just what would you do with one more day? There plenty I can think of!!!

Honorable Mention #1. Don't Happen Twice - Kenny Chesney
Did I mention that I ♥ this man's voice? Well besides that I just like the song. And there's just some things that only happen once!

Honorable Mention #2. You Shouldn't Kiss Me Like This - Toby Keith
I've had experiences where a kiss was just a kiss, but left you wondering what it really meant. I've also had kisses where it meant so much more. I totally 'get' this song!

Honorable Mention #3. Irresistible - Jessica Simpson

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 22

2011-12-05T16:05:00.002-07:00

The world's gonna end!!! AHHHH!!!

~2000~

1. With Arms Wide Open - Creed
I was pregnant with Tanis when this song came out. It pretty much ended up being the theme song of my life for those 8 months. (He was born a month early) Can't hear this song without thinking of my sweet little boy!

2. I Hope You Dance - LeeAnn Womack
I liked this song when it first came out and then after I had a daughter it meant so much more to me. I was a sap for a few years, I admit it.

3. Smooth - Santana Ft. Rob Thomas
Love the music in this song. I liked it from the first listen.

Honorable Mention #1. How Do You Like Me Now - Toby Keith
Toby Keith is one of those artists that tells it like it is. I almost like him JUST for that. This song is such a stick-it-to-em kind of songs. He pretty much tells off his high school dream girl. Love it!

Honorable Mention #2. Yes! - Chad Brock
Hopeless romantic coming out again. I like the picture this song paints. Makes me giddy.

Honorable Mention #3. The Way You Love Me - Faith Hill
I really liked Faith when I started listening to country music. This is one of those songs I think I'll always remember.
(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/o8EamHKpdrM

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 21

2011-12-03T19:35:00.003-07:00

This year had quite a few that I liked, so we have a top 5 with a few honorable mentions this go around! I have to keep things changing....

~1999~

1. How Forever Feels - Kenny Chesney
This is just such a fun song. I enjoy it every time I hear it. I like how he compares his life with what other people have done. And truth be told, I ♥ this man's voice. Ahhh!!!

2. Last Kiss - Pearl Jam
Truthfully, I only discovered Pearl Jam's version of this song within the past few years. I loved the original that was done in about the 60's and I love Pearl Jam's version as well. They almost sing it with more emotion than the original artist.
This is another depressing song and Eric always asks why I like it so much...Never know how to answer besides, "I just do."

3. That Don't Impress Me Much - Shania Twain
I liked this song because I feel the same way. I liked the guys who were themselves and didn't try to impress me with things they owned, talents they had, places they'd been, etc.

4. Mambo No. 5 - Lou Bega
This song is so bad as far as what it is talking about, but I still like the song. I think it's probably for the beat.

5. Write This Down - George Strait
Somedays I think I need to write down what Eric says to me so that in my emotional states I don't forget it....It would probably help. ;)

Honorable Mention #1. When You Believe - Whitney Houston & Mariah Carey
Joseph of Old is one of my favorite bible prophets. I've enjoyed the stories about him and the entertainment that has been made of that story. When Dreamworks (?) came out with their version of the story - it was an instant hit in my mind. This song was from that movie.

Honorable Mention #2. I Need To Know - Marc Anthony

Honorable Mention #3. Save Tonight - Eagle-Eye Cherry
Just one of those songs that has always stuck with me.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 20

2011-12-02T12:59:00.002-07:00

~1998~

1. Gettin' Jiggy Wit It - Will Smith
How can you be a kid of the early 90's and not like Will Smith? I just love this song. It makes me laugh and dance! LOL!

2. You're Still The One - Shania Twain
The hopeless romantic lives again. This song really describes the relationship Eric and I have. We had a lot of friends (and a few of our parents) that thought we'd divorce within a year IF we even made it to the altar! Here we are 13 years later and still going strong.

3. Crush - Jennifer Paige
Hehehe. Totally teen love. Love the beat in this song.

Honorable Mention #1. This Kiss - Faith Hill
This video is totally silly, but I love this song. This was about the time I really started listening to country music and this was one of the first songs I remember.
(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/WI7v36a92LU

Honorable Mention #2. The Boy Is Mine - Brandy & Monica
There was a time (or two) that I could've very well had this conversation during my High School years. In fact I had a similar one in High School - it just made me laugh. I guess I'm mean.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 19

2011-12-01T14:25:00.002-07:00

~1997~

1. Go The Distance - Michael Bolton
I loved the Disney movie, Hercules. I also loved this song. It's another song to buoy you up and give you confidence on those hard days.

2. The Freshman - Verve Pipe
Depressing song, means I like it....That's all I've got to say.

3. Tubthumping - Chumbawamba
I'm aware this song is all about drinking. When it came out I wasn't. I was naive. I just really like the beat in this song and the chorus get stuck in your head.

Honorable Mention #1. I Finally Found Someone - Barbra Striesand and Bryan Adams
This song was from the movie The Mirror Has Two Faces. While the movie wasn't GREAT, I did enjoy it. This was also around the time I started dating Eric and so this song spoke volumes to me.

Honorable Mention #2. Barely Breathing - Duncan Sheik
(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/A-oh-tP6RvA

Honorable Mention #3. Semi-Charmed Life - Third Eye Blind

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 18

2011-11-30T11:33:00.002-07:00

~1996~

#1. It's All Coming Back To Me Now - Celine Dion
Strange how the past can haunt you, especially after trauma...

#2. Because You Loved Me - Celine Dion
Okay, so I guess I really liked Celine during my teen years...
There are a few people I think of when I hear this song. My parents, My Maternal Grandma, My 1st real boyfriend, T and my terrific husband!!!

#3. Just A Girl - No Doubt
It's hard living in a world run by men sometimes. And it's hard dealing with all the hypocrisy when it comes to things boys can do, but women get looked down on for doing.

Honorable Mention #1. Un-Break My Heart - Toni Braxton
I so felt this way after a few break-ups. Even when I caused the break-up.

Honorable Mention #2. Beautiful Life - Ace of Base
Well, it is. This song is just one of those good advice songs that I should listen to daily...

Can't Forget Macarena by Los Del Rio
At the time I kinda liked this song, now I pretty much hate it. During PLT (Peer Leadership Team) my Junior year in High School this was our 'farewell' song anytime we went and talked at the elementary schools. I learned to despise this song by the end of the year. But I couldn't leave it out...

And because it's so funny, here's the Chipettes version! ;)

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 17

2011-11-29T11:59:00.002-07:00

~1995~

1. Take A Bow - Madonna
This song spoke to the actress in me. And like I've said many times before, break-up songs seem to be what I like best.
(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/XDeiovnCv1o

2. I'll Stand By You - The Pretenders
This song reminds me of my older brother, Corby. He was one of my best friends growing up and there were times his life wasn't so easy.

3. No More I Love Yous - Annie Lennox
I've said a few times I need my head examined because these are the types of songs that I like best...Hmmm...
(Embedding disabled)

http://youtu.be/XSgB61CUcq8

Honorable Mention #1. Turn The Beat Around - Gloria Estefan
Gloria was one of those artists I enjoyed at a young age. This song's beat is another one that just catches you and reels you in.
(The song I really like starts at about 1:57)

Honorable Mention #2. As I Lay Me Down - Sophie B. Hawkins
I really was a hopeless romantic in my early teen years...Ah well. Guess in some ways I'm still a hopeless romantic!

Hands, Feet and Feathers

2011-11-28T19:00:00.007-07:00

Thanksgiving has come and gone and only a few days before did we get around to making our paper turkeys. One of these years I'll be on top of things and get them done at the beginning of the month.

I usually just take the kids aside and we make our little craft. This year I did things differently. Because I'm only one person, I knew I wouldn't be able to take care of both little kids and keep them entertained and keep them 'on task'. So, I decided to make it be part of a Family Home Evening.

I started out with a very simple lesson found in the Nursery manual. (There are perks to being in Nursery) We then did our turkeys. However, before a 'feather' could be placed on the turkey everyone had to say something that they were thankful for. I made a rule that you couldn't say what the person right ahead of you said. I helped Nate work on his turkey, Eric helped Ailey.

We had some interesting answers from the kids. One said they were thankful for food cause some people don't have any. Another kid said they were thankful for Doctors. (Guess which kid that was) Eric took the easy way out and named person after person in the family. He was answering for Ailey as well, so I'll forgive him.

I was so pleased to hear the things my kids are grateful for and I tried to stretch my brain to thing of things that I don't usually have a grateful attitude for. Overall it was a good night, a wonderful FHE and I'm glad we did it.

Here are the pictures we tried to take after:

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 16

2011-11-28T13:05:00.003-07:00

I'm a few days behind and instead of catching up let's just say I took a weekend off. Sound good? GREAT!

~1994~

1. Don't Turn Around - Ace Of Base
Stupid Jr. High romances. Though I really knew NOTHING about love, I did feel these emotions.

2. The Sign - Ace of Base
Ace of Base was one of the first cd's I ever bought. I really liked their songs. What else can I say? Do you remember me mentioning the guy, B that I 'went out' with in 8th grade and how he told me he did it on a dare? Well, yeah it really ticked me off and eventually this was how I felt!

#3. Streets Of Philadelphia - Bruce Springsteen
Not sure why, just a song I've always liked.

Honorable Mention #1 - Linger - The Cranberries
Think I really just like the accents in this group. HEHEHE.

Honorable Mention #2 - Stay (I Missed You) - Lisa Loeb
Love the fact that even though the 'guy' is kind of a jerk, she still says that she misses him. Yup, I was that stupid girl when this song came out.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 15

2011-11-23T11:46:00.004-07:00

So, the early 90's must not have appealed to me much....As this year will show...

~1993~

1. Runaway Train - Soul Asylum
Another song with a vivid picture and using imagery instead of just saying it flat out. This song reminds me of my little brother, Devin for some reason.

2. I'll Never Get Over You (Getting Over Me) - Expose
A song I could relate to when it came out. In 8th grade I started 'going out' with one of my very close friends, S. It didn't last even a month before his older sister found out and then he decided we were too young to be 'serious'. I agreed, but it made me sad.
Then there was another guy, B, that I also 'went out' with at the end of 8th grade. After it fizzled out after only a few months, he told me that he did it on a dare anyway. Not sure I believed that one, but it still hurt.

3. What Is Love - Haddaway
Just like the beat to this song, especially since most of the lyrics in the song just repeat and repeat...

Original Video can't be embedded, but this is the link:
http://youtu.be/k_U6mWu1XQA

Below is a clip from Night At The Roxbury with the song:

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 14

2011-11-22T11:44:00.003-07:00

~1992~

1. This Used To Be My Playground - Madonna
Wow, wow, wow. Loved this song from the moment I heard it. There are times it's so hard to be a grown up and to look back on the past and realize just how innocent and free it was. I also really liked the movie, A League Of Their Own that Madonna was in and this song was in.

2. Hazard - Richard Marx
I always felt like an outsider so I could relate to this song in some ways.

3. Save The Best For Last - Vanessa Williams
One of the earliest songs I remember actually listening to and enjoying on my own. I know realize just how great the meaning of the song has.

Honorable Mention #1. I'm Too Sexy - Right Said Fred
See, I'm not always a downer! This song makes me laugh and the video makes me laugh even harder. I think a lot of us have made fun of supermodels in some way, and this song is all about that!

Honorable Mention #2. Tears In Heaven - Eric Clapton
Even though this song was released a year before my Grandpa died, it was still popular enough that it was played throughout that next year. I had so many of the same feelings that are in this song that I held it close to my heart and it always made me cry. It still does.

It Had To Happen Sometime....

2011-11-21T14:56:00.006-07:00

Growing up I used to think that broken body parts was a rare occurrence. I didn't know it was actually quite common. I grew up in a house of 7 kids and no one broke a bone while I was growing up. Even my little brother falling out of a tree didn't result in a broken bone.

I had been married a year or two when one of my siblings got the 1st broken bone in the family, my baby brother at the age of 5. My parents went 20 years and 6 kids with no broken bones. Number 7 comes along and breaks a bone in his first 5 years. He was playing on the playground, got pushed off and landed on his elbow. His was a nasty break. Made my skin crawl to look at it before it was in a cast!

I've since realized how common broken body parts are. So I've suspected that one of our kids, if not all would have a broken something or other at some point in their lives. I've also suspected that Shaylyn or Lex would be that kid...

So here's our story.

Thursday, November 1oth, 4:00 am - I am awoken by a noisy child getting breakfast. It's 4 in the freaking AM, so I told this child, Shaylyn, she needed to go back to bed. She apologized for being loud and then said, "I fell out of my bed and my arm hurts."

I was mean (hey, I am SO NOT a morning person) and told her I was sorry, but she needed to go back to bed. By this time Eric had woken up and told me to go back to bed and told Shaylyn that she was fine, she just needed to be quiet.

When Shaylyn came home from school that day, she said her arm still hurt. So I 'played' with it a bit to see if something was wrong. When I pushed back on her arm she said it hurt and I could feel bones moving around. I told Eric he needed to check it out.

Later that night when Eric looked at it, he said it was probably broken and he'd take her to Instacare the next morning since he was already off for Veterans Day.

So, Friday November 12th, Veteran's Day, found us at Instacare. We got the Dr. we don't care much for and told him what had happened. He then had the x-ray tech come get Shaylyn to get her x-rays done. Eric went with her - so that part of the story is lost, unless you talk to Eric.

The Dr. comes back and says that Shaylyn has a 'buckle fracture'. I had no idea what that meant and let it go. The nurse came and put a splint on Shaylyn and told us we'd have to take her to the Pediatrician in 5-7 days to get it cast. They needed time for the swelling to go down. (For a better look of where the 'break' is, you'll need to click on the picture and then enlarge it a bit...I've circled the area with the 'break')

I decided to make Shaylyn's appt. with the Pediatrician on my birthday, the 16th. I did it because Eric would be home and so either he or I could take Shaylyn and the other could stay home with the little kids.

Well in the meantime Eric had decided that we were going to leave in the morning and be out all afternoon. In the morning we had to go to the DMV so I could renew my license. After sharing my life story with them in documents, I received my lovely temporary license.

After the DMV, we headed to lunch at Olive Garden. It was a good lunch, but terribly overpriced. We spent more with just 3 of the kids than we usually do with all 5! Then because we had some time to kill we headed to the dollar store. We spent a small fortune there and then it was time for the dr.'s appt.

The pediatrician showed Eric and I where the fracture had occurred and then went about casting it. During the process Shaylyn told me, "I'm getting a cast for your birthday!" Well, at least she chose a purple!

So we've had the first broken bone in the family and the winner was Shaylyn. I really should've known.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 13

2011-11-21T12:57:00.002-07:00

I finally found a year where it was difficult to even pick 3 songs that I liked. Somehow I came up with 4...

~1991~

1. You're In Love - Wilson Phillips
I've been in this situation before. I started falling hard for a guy friend of mine only to realize that he was crazy in love with another girl. It hurt, but in the end all I wanted was for him to be happy and I made the most of our friendship.

2. Losing My Religion - R.E.M.
(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/if-UzXIQ5vw

3. Tom's Diner - Suzanne Vega Featuring DNA
This song has ALWAYS stuck in my head...da da da da da do do!

Honorable Mention #1. From A Distance - Bette Midler
Love the message this song is trying to get across to the people of the world. If I was ever in a beauty pageant, my answer to everything would be 'world peace'...

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 12

2011-11-21T12:29:00.002-07:00

~1990~

1. We Didn't Start The Fire - Billy Joel
See, Billy just always comes back. ;)
This song has always been a favorite. I didn't know what he was talking about for most of this song, but then in 8th grade History we had to study out the events in this song and I learned A LOT. And I still like the song, so it wasn't all bad!

#2. I Don't Have The Heart - James Ingram
So many emotions in this song, but I've seen it happen to lots of people...

#3. Opposites Attract - Paula Abdul
Such a silly, but so true song. I always think of Eric and I when I hear this song!

Honorable Mention #1. Another Day In Paradise - Phil Collins
I love songs that make you really think about life and other people. This is one such song.

Honorable Mention #2. Something Happened On The Way To Heaven - Phil Collins
Been in this situation before. Love this guys songs!
(Embedding Disabled)

http://youtu.be/CKrGj73OsAY

Honorable Mention #3. Black Velvet - Alannah Myles
Just one song I've always liked.

Honorable Mention #4. Must've Been Love - Roxette
Told you before that I'm drawn to break-up songs for some reason.

I Have A Confession...

2011-11-19T19:42:00.005-07:00

Well, you know, like everyone - there's a few things I could confess. But today I'm only confessing one thing. Who's excited to hear it???

Here goes...

I've never liked reading. Never. In school I was annoyed every time a teacher asked questions like, "What was the author thinking when he wrote this?"

My answer, "Who the heck knows? The dude is dead as are all of his friends. Therefore NO ONE REALLY KNOWS what the guy meant. For all we know he was hopped up on drugs and alcohol and really had no idea even what he meant."

Okay, I didn't really answer like that. I tried to find some sort of answer because I was a good student, but in my head that's what I was thinking.

I thought it odd that my Mom would always have a book next to her scriptures, on the fireplace, next to her rocking chair of things to read. Found it even more odd that she'd stay up at night and read them.

Then there came a summer during high school. A library was built within walking distance to my house and when I got bored, I went to the library. It was a way to get out of the house. While there I found a bunch of books by R.L. Stine written for young people. They were mysterious stories, always with a twist - but it fed right into what I found I enjoyed. I probably went to the library twice a month or more and read these books in a day or two. (Now looking on Google - there's a TON I haven't read that I may just try and get a hold of when I want a quick, fun read)

So I found that I COULD enjoy reading, but after reading all the Fear Street books that the library had and a couple others, I was left dry. Then, I got married and just felt too busy to read. Not that I had found anything worthwhile.

I marry Eric and he's been a bookie probably since he learned to read. He had a small library (which his mom so lovingly packed into two boxes and gave back to him for Christmas one year) and tried to get me to read some of the books he read that he thought I might enjoy.

The first one he gave me was some story about a girl and a dragon. (I honestly couldn't remember the name, and had to Google it) I enjoyed it for awhile, but then it just got too hard to read as it is so fantastical and heavily buried into Fantasy. Eric likes Fantasy and that's great, but I learned it just wasn't my type of book.

I think Eric was a little bummed that I didn't like that book and so he decided to keep trying. He then decided I'd like the Word and The Void Series by Terry L. Brooks. This time he found one I did enjoy quite a bit. I think what helped so much with liking this book -even though it was Fantasy- was that it was set in Modern Times. I read these books so quick that I even had to wait for Eric to finish a couple before I could read them.

Here and there Eric still tries to find books I'll enjoy. Most I don't. He's the one, however, that got me to read Harry Potter and the Twilight saga. He had started listening to the Twilight audiobook and was convinced it was a story I'd like. I was trying to avoid the whole thing. But I finally relented and let him play the first of the audiobook while we were driving to family's homes on Thanksgiving one year. I hated listening to the audiobook, but I just HAD to read it after listening to the first few chapters on audiobook.

So, for the most part I wasn't ever a big reader. Then someone pointed me in the direction of Jodi Picoult. I was hooked. Her books are also along the lines of mysterious (as in how the book is going to end) and the ending is hardly EVER the obvious answer. I embraced this author and have read every one of her books and I'm thrilled she has another coming out in March!!!

Here and there I found other books to read. Like Dan Brown's Angles & Demons and The DaVinci Code. But for the most part I've stuck with Jodi Picoult..

Then I move into this neighborhood. Utah Mom tells me about the neighborhood bookclub and starts inviting me. Eric tells me I should go and I eventually do. In this course, I've made new friends, but I've also learned that reading can be fun.

It's opened up a whole new world to me. I don't always read the selection for the month (I'm still a picky reader), but it's nice to hear about new books and there's even been a few I've read that I would've have done otherwise. Utah Mom has also pointed me in directions of books she thinks I'll enjoy and she hasn't gone wrong yet.

So a little over a month ago, October 15th, I woke up at 5:45 for one reason. To head to the Salt Lake City Library's book sale. There were 6 other girls besides Utah Mom and I that were crazy enough to wake up at this hour and go to a BOOK SALE! Utah Mom had said how great the deals were and that she goes every time they have one. It didn't take me long to find out why. Or why we went so early in the morning.

We got there around 7 and the place was already a zoo. However, I managed my uneasiness with crowds and scored quite a few books I was interested in. I was armed with my handy, dandy (okay, we maybe watch a little too much Blue's Clues in this house) debit card and was ready to go. Only to then find out they only take checks or cash. I didn't have either. Thankfully the women I was with were awesome and someone paid for my stuff as well. I paid her back later that day.

I got a little something for everyone:

HOME RUN - Nate
SYBIL - Me
THE WESTING GAME - Tanis & Me
SPY HIGH - Tanis
TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE - Me
THE BABYSITTING WARS - Shaylyn
CATCH ME IF YOU CAN - Me & Eric
HAPPY FACE, SAD FACE - Ailey
THE LITTLE PRINCE - Me & The Kids *
THE TEACHERS FROM THE BLACK LAGOON - Lex
LOST SYMBOL - Me
THE WIZARD OF OZ - Me & The Kids *

Because Eric's been reading since he could read, I wasn't sure what books he'd already read and he spends more time listening to audiobooks lately than reading so I went with the ~~comic books~~ graphic novels. Although I don't think he's even read them or remembers them at all. But that's okay because I only spent $10 for EVERYTHING!!!

Seriously. I think I should've paid about $12, but the little old lady helping my friend and I kept getting confused. I wasn't complaining.

We even got stopped on our way out by a reporter doing a story on the sale. I didn't say much, so of course I wasn't mentioned. But two or three of the girls I were with were mentioned quite heavily in the story. It was awesome. I had a great time with these ladies (and girls) and hope to go every time.

Although, from now on, I'm just gonna send Eric to look for stuff for him on his lunch break since he works kitty-corner from the library.

And I'm curious (without cheating, those of you on Goodreads) what book do you think I'm currently reading out of the above list????

-- I've become my Mom.... --

* Now that the weather is colder, and the kids will be playing outside less, I plan to read these to the kids everyday for reading minutes and because it'll be nice to spend that time together. *

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 11

2011-11-19T11:31:00.001-07:00

This was a good year, I guess...I have a long list for this year. My little sis was also born this year. Yeah, I guess we'll go with the fact it was a good year.

~1989~

1. Cold Hearted - Paula Abdul
I've always loved this song and the fact that she compares this rotten guy to a snake. It's awesome. I also love mean songs...Again, I should get my head examined.

2. If I Could Turn Back Time - Cher
As much as I don't much care for the person Cher is, she's made some good music. This is one such song. I think we all have things we'd change if we could go back in time.

3. After All - Peter Cetera & Cher
This song always reminds me of Eric. While we were dating there was a few times we almost broke up, but something kept us from doing so. Here we are 15 years later and still wonderfully happy together.

Honorable Mention #1. Right Here Waiting - Richard Marx
I've always liked this song. Probably just because it was the 1st song I learned to play on the piano...Well the first of the song, anyway.

Honorable Mention #2. Toy Soldiers - Martika
Another song I've always enjoyed. I like when people can think outside of the box and use other imagery for things they're trying to say.

Honorable Mention #3. Wind Beneath My Wings - Bette Midler
A song I can relate to. It's always been my parents and grandparents that have given me the strength to go on and to live my life the way I do!

Honorable Mention #4. Soldier Of Love - Donny Osmond
Okay, so I may have this tiny crush on Donny Osmond. Okay, it's actually just his voice that gets me and I realize he's old enough to be my dad. So I just like this song.
(Embedding Disabled....boo!)

http://youtu.be/dXs0r47STuY

Honorable Mention #5. Miss You Like Crazy - Natalie Cole
Such a good song. So simple, yet so profound.

Honorable Mention #6. If You Don't Know Me - Simply Red
Think about it. After spending x amount of time with someone and they still DON'T know you - they never will!

Honorable Mention #7. Two Hearts - Phil Collins
Phil never ceases to amaze me. Love his music.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 10

2011-11-19T10:28:00.002-07:00

~1988~

1. Don't Worry, Be Happy - Bobby McFerrin
How can you not smile while listening to this song? It can always make me happy when I hear it, no matter what's going on. Plus, Robin Williams is in the video - I was sure to love everything about this song!!!

2. Anything For You - Gloria Estefan & The Sound Machine
I'm drawn to sad songs. I don't know why... Just one more song I also relate to.

3. Could've Been - Tiffany
All those could've beens...Best not to think about.

Honorable Mention #1. Make It Real - The Jets
Man, breakup songs really seem to hit me. Oh well...

Honorable Mention #2. Where Do Broken Hearts Go - Whitney Houston
Do you see a theme with these songs???? Maybe I should get my head checked out?

Honorable Mention #3. Foolish Beat - Debbie Gibson

The fact that Debbie Gibson was young and wrote all her own music always impressed me. This is just one song that has always spoke to me. And yes, I realize it's another 'break-up' song. Guess I'll nickname this year, "The Year of Broken Hearts."

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 9

2011-11-17T14:32:00.003-07:00

Here's another heavy year. Dang 80's!!!

~1987~

#1 - I Think We're Alone Now - Tiffany
I had no idea what this song really meant when I was little, but I loved it anyway. Love it even more now that I know what it's all about! ;)

#2 - At This Moment - Billy Vera & The Beaters
If we could all only handle breakups (disappointments) so well...

#3 - Alone - Heart
I've felt this way way too many times.

Honorable Mention #1 - Stand By Me - Ben E. King
Another one of my all time fave songs. Always has been. Just love the message of this song.

Honorable Mention #2 - La Bamba - Los Lobos
I loved this movie, even though it was sad. And even though I don't speak a lick of Spanish, I love this song.

Honorable Mention #3 - Walk Like An Egyptian - The Bangles
Couldn't let this year go by WITHOUT this song. Seriously, people!

Honorable Mention #4 - (I Just) Died In Your Arms - Cutting Crew
No real reason, just like the song.

http://youtu.be/Ua26qTEK25U (embedding disabled)

Honorable Mention #5 - You Got It All - The Jets
Somehow there's always someone else to get you over a heartbreak!

Honorable Mention #6 - In Too Deep - Genesis
I think I just like his voice more than anything else.

Honorable Mention #7 - Luka - Suzanne Vega
A haunting song, but one that I really like. I'm messed up that way.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 8

2011-11-17T12:59:00.003-07:00

~1986~

#1 - Papa Don't Preach - Madonna
I wasn't a huge fan of Madonna until I was in high school and then this song was a song I could relate to.

#2 - Greatest Love Of All - Whitney Houston
One song I should probably listen to EVERY STINKING DAY of my life. It may help me love myself...

#3 - Broken Wings - Mr. Mister
Everyone could use this lesson. Don't let life keep you down, EVER!

Honorable Mention #1 - Conga - Sound Machine
Just love the beat to this song. Can't stay still while listening to this song.

Honorable Mention #2 - Manic Monday - The Bangles
Who doesn't hate Mondays???? And doesn't everything seem to go wrong on a Monday?

Honorable Mention #3 - Crush On You - The Jets
Okay, I'll be honest. I first listened to The Jets because they were members of the church. I was amazed that a family group could be so big in the world. Then I just ended up liking their songs because I was a pre-teen and totally boy crazy!!!

Honorable Mention #4 - How Will I Know - Whitney Houston
Again, being the boy crazy kid that I was this song was perfect for me and asked questions I had myself.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 7

2011-11-15T16:33:00.002-07:00

So I found a year in the 80's that wasn't quite so filled with music I liked. I'm back to the top 5 in my list.

~ 1985 ~

#1 - Careless Whisper - George Michael or Wham
Guilt sucks. But then again, maybe you shouldn't have messed around in the first place, right?

#2 - You're The Inspiration - Chicago
Another group my Mom listened to while I was growing up. I didn't pay a whole lot of attention then. Fast forward to the time when I was about 12 - I was sleeping over at my cousins house and she had a Chicago CD that we listened to pretty much all night long. I was then hooked.
(Video can't be embedded, so the link below is for the video!)

http://youtu.be/CRfy1yorkec

#3 - Axel F - Harold Faltermeyer
Yet another song my parents listened to...It's stayed in my head FOREVER!!! Love it!

Honorable Mention #1 - Material Girl - Madonna
Be honest girls, who wouldn't love a man that showers you with gifts and riches ALL THE TIME???

Honorable Mention #2 - One Night In Bangkok - Murray Head
Just a funny song. The lyrics really make me laugh. I've heard this song is about all sorts of 'interesting' thing...I still like it. I'll just keep being naive and take the words literally. ;)

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 6

2011-11-14T16:16:00.004-07:00

Ready for this one?
It's chalk full of videos....

~1984~

#1 - The Longest Time - Billy Joel
Billy Joel, again!!! Told you he was pivotal in my life. This is one of "our" songs. My mom really liked Billy Joel - so I grew up listening to him.

#2 - I Just Called To Say I Love You - Stevie Wonder
It's the hopeless romantic in me again. And I honestly love when Eric calls for no reason at all and he's always so sweet, I guess I got lucky!

#3 - Let's Hear It For The Boy - Deniece Williams
Again, as a little girl dreaming of that perfect guy. Well I got pretty close and this song describes Eric in so many ways. I guess dreams can come true.

Honorable Mention #1 - Hello - Lionel Richie
Just an all around great song.

Honorable Mention #2 - Against All Odds - Phil Collins
I think Phil Collins is an awesome artist. Love most all of his songs.

An Innocent Man - Billy Joel
I cannot leave my Billy out. End of story.

Honorable Mention #4 - Break My Stride - Matthew Wilder
Love the picture this song paints. And besides, NOTHING'S GONNA BREAK MY STRIDE!

Honorable Mention #5 - Somebody's Watching Me - Rockwell
Growing up I used to think people were watching me too, so I totally get this song.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 5

2011-11-14T13:29:00.005-07:00

These 80's - I'm telling you. I like waaaaay too many songs....This post has 7 songs and the next post will have 8. Hahaha!

~1983~

#1- Total Eclipse Of The Heart- Bonnie Tyler
I don't remember when I first heard this song, but I remember liking it from the first listen. It's in my top 5 fave songs of all time! For the record...the studio recording of the song is much better than this live version - but it's the best I could find giving her credit.

#2 - Making Love Out Of Nothing At All - Air Supply
I'm a sucker for romance ballads, what can I say?

#

#3 - I'm Still Standing - Elton John
Love, love, love this song. I wish I had the courage to be strong when things don't go the way I hope for.

J

Honorable Mention #1 - Puttin' On The Ritz - Taco
Just another song I like for no real rhyme or reason...

Honorable Mention #2 - Down Under - Men At Work
I've always had a fascination with Australia, and this song just always makes me laugh.

Honorable Mention #3 - Maneater - Hall & Oates
I dreamed of being that girl....Sad, but true...

Honorable Mention #4 - Our House - Madness
This song always reminds me of growing up and that's why I like it s much, I guess.

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 4

2011-11-14T11:04:00.003-07:00

~1982~

#1 - Gloria - Laura Branigan
Another song I heard growing up and I really had NO IDEA what it all meant, but I liked it all the same.

#2 - Harden My Heart - Quarterflash
I think I must've always been a little mean inside and was always afraid of getting hurt in love. I was little, what did I know?

#3 - Eye Of The Tiger - Survivor
I've just always liked this song and believe it or not I've never even seen Rocky.

Honorable Mention #1 - Physical - Olivia Newton-John
Yup, I was one of those kids who had no idea what this song was really talking about, but I liked it anyway. Part of me likes it even better now that I know what it's talking about! LOL!

Honorable Mention #2 -Who Can It Be Now? - Men At Work

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 3

2011-11-11T17:09:00.002-07:00

~1981~

#1 - 9-5 by Dolly Parton
Love pretty much everything about this song. Don't ask me why, I just do!

#2 - Love On The Rocks - Neil Diamond
Neil Diamond is also big in my life. And this song is like the perfect in-between happiness and hate in a relationship.

#3 - Jessie's Girl - Rick Springfield

We've all had those people that we wished we could date, but they were always with someone else. Just an easy song to relate to.

Honorable Mention - Don't Stand So Close To Me - The Police
I'll admit it - there's been a few teachers I've had crushes on. Thankfully it never got to the obvious point. I love that this song shows it from the teacher's perspective!

Favorite Song Of The Year: Day 2

2011-11-11T16:40:00.002-07:00

~1980~

#1 - Coward Of The County - Kenny Rogers
It's important to pay attention to what older, wiser folks tell you. They've been there, they know things we don't. Yet, there are those times you need to do what your gut tells you.

#2 - It's Still Rock & Roll To Me - Billy Joel
Again, it's Billy Joel. Do I really need to say more?
Love the picture he paints with this song.

#3 - Don't Fall In Love With A Dreamer - Kenny Rogers & Kim Carnes
I first heard this song when I was really little, but I fell in love with it immediately. It's one that's always stayed in my head!

Honorable Mention #1 - You Decorated My Life - Kenny Rogers
Just an awesome love song. It would be nice to know what you've done for someone else's life.

Honorable Mention #2 - You May Be Right - Billy Joel
When I was little I always dreamed of dating a bad boy - before I realized what that really meant. I thought motorcycles were cool - they scare me now. I've learned a lot since I was little, but I still like this song.

Bet you can't tell which music my Mom listened to most in my formative years, eh?

Favorite Song Of The Year, Once A Day: Day 1

2011-11-09T18:55:00.002-07:00

My little brother started a sort of game over on Facebook and I decided to play along. But already I noticed a problem I'm going to have with it just doing it on Facebook, so of course I had to play along on my blog as well... Hmmm.

Every day I am going to post a song that I like starting with the year I was born (1979 in my case) and each day go up one year! This should be interesting!!!! I am taking my song from the list of the top 100!

Well here's the dilemma I found...for 1979 alone, I found 3 songs that I really like, so I think my list is going to be my top 3 faves. It works.

~1979~

Song #1: Music Box Dancer by Frank Mills
My parents had this song on a record and listened to it occasionally. Being the romantic little girl I was, I loved imagining that I was a music box dancer and loved to dance to this song.

Song #2: My Life by Billy Joel
Now if you know me at all, you know Billy Joel plays a somewhat pivotal role in my life - so yes, he's included in the top three. I just love this song. (Song really starts at about 1:15)

Song #3: The Gambler by Kenny Rogers
Another song I heard a lot because of my Mom. I love the advice in this song and laughed out loud at the tv show Castle's last episode as they quoted lines from this song.