Marveling Muse

How to pull a tooth...

2009-12-09T17:54:00.001-08:00

Classic Violet

2009-10-21T11:08:00.001-07:00

2009-10-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

To try and make up for not blogging for a while, I thought I'd post a video that's sure to make you laugh!

Cute little Vi

2009-06-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

Wow! Check this out!

2009-06-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

Bugs? NO, HAIL!!!

2009-06-09T16:18:00.000-07:00

Poor Hosta!

It hailed for about 10 minutes yesterday. For a little while it was pouring down rain and the hail was marble sized. It looks like the hosta is the only casualty.

The Girls

2009-05-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

Another wonderful picture by Lydia, my little artist!

A cherished moment when the girls were playing together and having fun!

2009-05-03T14:29:00.001-07:00

Amazing! "Over the Rhine"

2009-04-17T15:25:00.000-07:00

This is the kind of music I want to be playing! I love it!

Thank you Easter Bunny!

2009-04-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

This morning I had this conversation with Violet :

Violet: Where's Easter Bunny?

Me: He went back to his house.

Violet: I want to hug him!"

Me: Well, if you just yell THANK YOU really loud, he'll probably hear you.

Violet: No, I want to call him. Can we call him?

Me: Easter bunny can't talk because he's a bunny, so he doesn't have a phone.

Violet: But I just want to hug him Mommy!

Me: Let's just yell thank you really loud together.

Violet: No, we need to find him. I need to hug him.... He's brown.

Me: Oh, he's brown? I always though he was white, but I've never seen him... Wanna take a bath?

Violet: Okay!

Just say no!

2009-04-11T09:03:00.000-07:00

WHAAA???
What happened to Joaquin? Ryan thinks maybe he's totally in character for a part in a movie, but it seems a little too real too me... Who knows? He IS an amazing actor! What do you think?

Ophelia

2009-04-10T14:02:00.000-07:00

The painting "Ophelia" (1851) by the Pre-Raphaelite painter Sir John Everett Millais.

In Shakespeare's Hamlet, the daughter of Polonius. She loses her mind after Polonius' death.

A painting that has always caught my eye.

Can't Wait

2009-04-02T16:09:00.000-07:00

To see a treasured story come to life!

Where the Wild Things Are

The Eyes of an Artist

2009-03-23T20:14:00.000-07:00

This video is so cool! It's in French, so I really have no idea what he is saying (Dayna, you probably know). I think we often forget what a beautiful world we live in. We sometimes just need to put our "Imagination Goggles" on!

William Blake

2009-03-20T09:24:00.000-07:00

I've decided that every so often I would post a piece of art that I love.

This piece by William Blake is so inspiring. He was way ahead of his time, doing this mixed media in 1794! He was an English poet, painter, and printmaker.

William Blake
"Ancient of Days"
(God as an architect)
Date: 1794
Medium: relief etching with watercolor
Dimensions: 23 x 17 cm (9 x 7 inches)
Location: British Museum, London

Happy Birthday to Ruby

2009-03-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

Lydia decided about a month ago (well, she says her fish told her) that it was going to be her fish Ruby's 2nd birthday on March 18th. She did much worrying about having the perfect birthday for Ruby. So, this morning I made special blueberry muffins because Lydia thought the fish would like them since her (the fish's) favorite color is blue (she told Lydia that too). We brought Ruby out to the dinning room, lit her 2 candles and sang Happy Birthday. It was cute.

Both of the girls have been talking to her a lot today and have treated her very special. It's a good thing they don't know that the fish was probably totally freaked out by the fire, and we still haven't told Lydia that her fish is a MALE Beta. I think it would break her heart!

This is the awesome picture Lydia did of Ruby.

Violet Actually Listens in Church?

2009-03-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

I usually take the girls to church with me on Sundays. Ryan either stays at home or plays a gig at the Ibis while we go. The girls always want to come with me. We pack plenty of things to keep them occupied, but usually the entire service ends up being a wrestling match between the three of us. I leave feeling flustered, and wishing I could have listened more closely to the sermon, as I begin to regret even taking the girls. I definitely don't think they have listened to a word of what was said.... Maybe I underestimated.

I was singing to Violet before I put her to bed tonight. I was singing the song from "Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?"- "As I Went Down In The River To Pray". I sang "Oh Mothers let's go down", then fathers, brothers, and sisters. Lastly, I came to "sinners". I stopped and asked Violet, "Do you know what a sinner is?" She smiled and said, "Yes". (I was thinking "yeah, right!") So then I asked, "What's a sinner?" She gave me that cute little smile once more and slowly stated

"Someone who turns away from the Lord"
just as clear as a bell.

WOW! I guess she does listen in church!

Violet Puts on a Show

2009-03-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

Oh, Deer!

2009-02-27T10:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning we were sitting at the dining room table eating breakfast, and Violet shouted "I see deers!". Across the street there were 10 deer!

It's amazing how they just sort of blend in with the trees.

Home Made Valentines

2009-02-18T11:53:00.000-08:00

Home Made Valentines are priceless.

I'm so impressed! Ryan made this card for me with colored pencils. Pretty cute!

These are the ones that Lydia made for me and Ryan.

(Somehow she got into the Halloween stickers, and I guess she wanted to stick to that theme!)

American Sign Language

2009-02-10T21:20:00.000-08:00

"ASL"

I am taking a class in American Sign Language this semester at USU. I needed to fulfill a language requirement for my gen ed credits, so I thought this would be the most interesting language to take. I have also always been fascinated when I watch an interpreter doing sing language. It looks so fluid and beautiful.
Since I am an artist and a dancer, I thought that it might come easy to me being a visual, almost dance-like language. Well, I'm through the first month and it hasn't quite clicked for me yet. I'm sticking with it though because I still really want to learn it! It is just a lot more difficult than I had ever imagined it would be!
Plus, the Deaf culture is fascinating! That this culture has their own history and folklore is amazing. The more I find out, the more I want to learn the language. Wish me luck!

Wii!!!

2009-02-04T14:49:00.001-08:00

We bought a Wii and a Wii Fit last week and we've been having so much fun!!! What a great way to spend time and get exercise when we can't go outside because the air quality is unhealthy!

Lydia is seriously becoming a yoga master! It's her favorite!
Here she is doing the "Warrior" pose.

Even Violet is doing yoga! She follows along really well, but of course she can't balance the best!

So far, Ryan is the master hula hooper and ski jumper, and I'm the pro bowler, golfer, and slalom skier. Lydia has second place on the ski jump though, so look out Ryan!

Watch Them Grow

2009-01-24T22:18:00.000-08:00

Press the play button on the song to the left! It's so precious!

Watch Them Grow

By Zach Gill

She's close to God, I'm sure of that
She sits him down, and they have a chat
She asks for sunshine, and he agrees
You see, for her, He'd do anything

You watch them grow, then you let 'em go

She is a monkey, and I'm her tree
And now she's climbing all over me
Swinging on my vines dancing on my limbs
Her monkey sounds sound like angel's hymns

You watch them grow, then you let 'em go
You watch them grow, then you let 'em go

She is an angel, she is an imp
She's got my big toe, and her mother's lips
She gives fishy kisses, and great big bear hugs
42 pounds of pure love
Then one day she'll be 17, feelin' too big for her home
Seems she was just only 3, oh how our children they grow

You watch them grow, then you let 'em go
You watch them grow, then you let 'em go
You watch them grow, then you let 'em go
You watch them grow, then you let 'em go

Then one day she'll be 33, maybe with a child of her own
Seems she was just 17, oh how our children they grow
He'll ask for sunshine, and she'll agree
You see for him, she'd do anything
He is her child, the center of her world
She is his mother... my little girl

You watch them grow, then you let 'em go
You watch them grow, then you let 'em go

Bowling!

2009-01-24T21:38:00.000-08:00

We went bowling last weekend, and it was SO much fun!

Violet was absolutely amazed by the balls coming out of this thing! She would wait for one to pop up and just squeal with delight!

The game was programmed so that whenever it was Lydia's turn, the bumpers would pop up, then they'd go back down when Ryan and I would go.

Yeah, I totally rock
Just Kidding!

We asked Lydia (who bowls over a 200 on the Wii) what she liked better, and she said "Real Bowling" because she liked to actually throw the ball.

That's my girl!

Is that a banana in your pocket?

2009-01-24T21:34:00.000-08:00

Okay, sorry if that grosses you out, but isn't this hilarious? This sticker was actually on a Chiquita banana that my mom bought! I'm sending it in to
Jay Leno.

A Dog???

2009-01-21T21:04:00.000-08:00

As I lifted Violet out of her crib the other day, I said "Violet, you are getting so big! What am I going to do when I don't have a baby anymore?"

She thought for a little bit, then folded her hands in front of her, and raised her eyebrows and said

"Um, you like a dog?"

I Don't think that we'll be getting a dog for a while, but we can hope can't we?

Violet the Fashionista

2009-01-18T13:48:00.001-08:00

Ruby

2009-01-13T15:46:00.001-08:00

While we were gone over Christmas, we had a death in the family. No need for sympathy calls, it was just Lydia's beloved beta fish "Bubble". He lived for over 2 1/2 years and we knew his time was coming. We actually had Lydia say her final farewells before we left for Iowa. I assured her that he couldn't be in better hands for his last days than to be with her friend Miles.

She took it very well. No tears, just lots of questions like, "Did they flush him?" and "Do I get to have my fish bowl and rocks back?"

We let Lydia pick out a new fish last week. We also bought her a new fish bowl. She instantly loved this fish and made a "background" for her and decorated not only the inside of her bowl with treasures, but also the outside.

This is "Ruby"The picture in the back is a picture of Ruby and Bubble at the top, then Ruby in her fish bowl. Underneath Lydia wrote "Home, Ruby".

Ruby, please live more than a couple months!!!

Busy Season!

2009-01-13T15:35:00.001-08:00

Ahh! What a wonderful yet busy holiday season! Back to my Blog after I haven't written a word on here for over a month. Don't know if anyone will check in, but I'm back!
I have way too many Christmas pictures to post, so I sent invitations to most of you to view them at Kodak Gallery.

Here's one of my favorites
"Time Out"

I know it doesn't have a Christmas theme, but it's still cute!

A Lesson in the LAW...

2008-11-21T08:02:00.000-08:00

I had an interesting lesson in my U.S. Institutions class on Tuesday. We talked about laws, and about the fact that there are many laws that are still in effect that are really dumb or outdated. Here are a few Utah laws that are pretty hilarious.

Crazy Utah Laws

It is illegal to detonate any nuclear weapon. You can have them, but you just can't detonate them.

Birds have the right of way on all highways.

It's legal for restaurants to serve wine with meals, but only if you ask for the wine list.

It is against the law to fish from horseback.

When a person reaches the age of 50, he/she can then marry their cousin.

A husband is responsible for every criminal act committed by his wife while she is in his presence.

You're not allowed to sell beverages containing more than 3.2% alcohol.

It is illegal not to drink milk.

It is considered an offense to hunt whales.

Kaysville

You must have identification to enter a convienence store after dark.

Logan

Women may not swear.

Monroe

Daylight must be visible between partners on a dance floor.

Provo

Throwing snowballs will result in a $50 fine.

Salt Lake City

No one may walk down the street carrying a paper bag containing a violin.

Trout Creek

Pharmacists may not sell gunpowder to cure headaches.

It is illegal in Tremonton, Utah to have sex in a moving ambulance, if caught the man is let loose and the woman is punished and her name printed in the newspaper.

I had no idea that being lactose intolerant could make me a criminal!

Pink Mountain

2008-11-11T12:28:00.000-08:00

This was the view from our backyard to the Southeast the other night. It's a little dark, but I didn't want to Photoshop it, because I didn't want to loose any of the "realness" of the color.

Breathtaking...

Cache Valley is so beautiful!

Halloween

2008-11-08T20:39:00.000-08:00

We all had a great Halloween. Lydia was the new Holly Hobbie, and Violet was a dragon (the costume I made for Lydia when she was 2) . We went to a carnival at Lydia's school, then to Sherm and Becky's for their traditional Halloween meal of chili and doughnuts. MMM!

Cell Phones and Radiation...?

2008-11-02T20:23:00.000-08:00

I am looking to upgrade my T-mobile phone, and I have been reading reviews on phones. I came across a term on CNET that I was not familiar with... an SAR rating. According to the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA), specific absorption rate, or SAR, is "a way of measuring the quantity of radio frequency (RF) energy that is absorbed by the body." Here is the disclaimer made on the website-

"While research abounds and some tests have shown that cell phone radiofrequency (RF) could accelerate cancer in laboratory animals, the studies have not been replicated. Cell phones can affect internal pacemakers, but there is not conclusive or demonstrated evidence that they cause adverse health affects in humans. Conversely, there is not conclusive or demonstrated evidence that they don't cause adverse health affects in humans. So, in short, the jury is still out, research is ongoing, and we will continue to monitor its results. "

There was also an interview that Larry King did on CNN with 3 top neurosergeons, and they said that they do not put their cell phones to their ear. They use an earpiece or put their phone on speaker.

Whether I think this is true or not? There isn't solid proof, but of course I want to play it safe. Unfortunately this means I have to decide whether I want the nice sturdy Blackberry pearl with a SAR of 1.22 (for FREE) or the cheap looking Samsung Katalyst with a .662 SAR rating (also free). The Samsung does get great reviews on call clarity and reception, but overall it's a much cheaper phone with a lot less features. I may still get the Blackberry, because I can use the speaker phone as much as possible, plus, I really don't talk on the phone that much.

If you'd like to read more or to check out the radiation level of your phone, click here.

Wii Music

2008-10-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

If I had a Wii, I'd want this game for sure! You can play over 60 different instruments! This commercial is pretty cool, check it out.

Sisterly Love...

2008-10-20T19:10:00.001-07:00

Today, as we sat down at our dining room table to eat dinner, Lydia reached over and placed her hand over my hand. She looked at me like she had something very important to talk about. I said " What's up, honey?" She gave my hand a little squeeze, and ever so sweetly and very seriously said,

"Mommy, you know how sometimes people say they want to keep Violet?
Maybe we should let them."

Her eyes still looked very sincere, like she was really trying to convince me that it would be okay to let her go.

Quickly I said "You should never say anything like that again," as I ran into the other room to have a good (quiet) laugh!

The Biden's

2008-10-17T16:09:00.000-07:00

Joe Biden with his son Beau Biden

Last night Ryan and I watched Jay Leno and he had Joe Biden on as a guest. There were many laughs during the interview, but the thing that Ryan and I giggled at the most was when we found out that Joe has a son Beau (pronounced Bo). I know, the little things that amuse us sometimes... but just try saying it-
"Joe Biden, Bo Biden"
I think they should have had a dog named "Be Bum"-
"Jo Biden, Bo Biden, Be Bum!"

(I'm feeling really silly for writing that now...)

Violet

2008-10-14T20:37:00.001-07:00

Violet counted to 10 today. Perfectly. I didn't even know she could count to 5! Sometimes we count together and I'll stop and wait for her to fill in the next number, but she hasn't done it on her own. Today while she was eating, for no particular reason, she started counting 1-10. It's funny what they'll amaze you with sometimes. She has to think really hard to even say "sugar pie honey bunch" and there is a usually big pause between each word when she says it. Today, the counting thing just clicked for her I guess!

Our Little Artist

2008-10-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

Lydia drew and colored this picture today. I am so impressed! I asked her who it was of, and she said "I don't know, I haven't named her yet." I think she's pretty cute! (the girl, and Lydia!:)

The Tree is Gone!

2008-09-29T21:24:00.000-07:00

We had the willow tree removed over the past couple of days. Before we did the girls and I had a willow fairy celebration and dressed up in willow branches. Here are some pics...

Strike a pose...

Before...

After lowering the tree house

Our house is so much hotter without the nice shade!

Lydia drew this picture. She's had a hard time saying good-bye.

We Plan on buying another tree, but of course we won't get shade for a while. Any suggestions???

Bedknobs and Broomsticks

2008-09-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

Last night we watched "Bedknobs and Broomsticks". Lydia seemed to like it, but she didn't say much about it. Today she was playing in my bedroom for a little while, but I wasn't watching her.

Later on, I sat on my bed to read a book and I heard a "ting ting" sound coming from my brass headboard. I had to laugh when I realized it was my bedknob that had been almost completely screwed off!

I can just imagine Lydia twisting it just like in the movie and bracing herself just in case the whole bed might fly away! I wonder where she wished it would take her? I'll have to ask her in the morning!

Sleeping Beauty

2008-09-13T16:38:00.001-07:00

Violet Lingo

2008-09-04T20:58:00.000-07:00

Violet had her first "real" day at school today (without her Mommy and Daddy). She loved it so much. It was sad but cute- when I dropped her off, a teacher came to the car and took her out and I said "Bye Bye Violet" and she didn't look back once. She was so excited for school!

When Ryan picked her up, her teacher told him that Violet really talks a lot. I agree, but I wonder if anyone can understand her besides her family? To give you an idea, these are some translations of some of Violet's everyday vocabulary...

"My hode it" = "I want to hold that"

"My yours" = I want something that belongs to you."

"In-air" = "In there"

"My habit tookie" = "Can I have a cookie?"

"Grr-damma" = "Grandma"

"Jame" = "James"

"No, my homie" = "Hold me, not Lydia"

"Hans....hum" = "Handsome"

"My dude" = "My sunglasses"

...and many more. I'll have to update again later!

Violet and Lydia's First Day of School

2008-08-29T20:47:00.000-07:00

Lydia's First day of Kindergarten was Thursday! She LOVES school!

Violet also had her first day of school. She started the 2 year old Lab Preschool up on campus. Here she is getting under this little boys face saying "Hi Friend!"

Grandmother Willow

2008-08-19T20:46:00.000-07:00

In the movie "Pocahontas", Pocahontas confides in and seeks direction form a wise old Willow tree who comes to life to give guidance to her and John Smith.

As you may know, we have a wonderful willow tree in our yard. Unfortunately, the tree is starting to decay and it is very close to our house, so we have to get it removed. A couple weeks ago, we put a rope swing on one of the branches and it has been hours of fun for the whole family. Honestly, I love this tree and I hate to see it go. It breaks my heart. It gives us such great shade. We have had a few cool picnic lunches under it's canopy. It is also buzzing with life- squirrels, woodpeckers, and TONS of other birds and insects call this tree their home , at least for a little while. We do plan on planting a few trees, but none can really replace "Grandmother Willow".

2008-08-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

I have been trying new things out with Lydia's hair just for fun, and she likes it when I take a few pictures of different angles for her to see if she likes it. I did that this morning and Violet came up and said "My cheese, my cheese!" Translation: "Please take my picture too!"

Each posing in her own cute way...

2008-08-06T19:27:00.000-07:00

Barack-a-bye-baby

2008-08-03T13:43:00.001-07:00

Good morning boys and girls. The magic word for the day is "Barack Obama". When you hear that word, scream real loud! (Did anyone else used to watch Pee Wee's Playhouse?)

I try not to talk about politics too much. Still, I must admit, that although I think he's an arrogant loud mouth, that spews out way too much word diarrhea, I do listen to Rush on occasion in the car. Usually I have the kids in the car with me, but I think that's really the only polotics they are exposed to.

While eating breakfast this morning, Violet, out of the blue said, "Barack Obama". Clear as a bell! I'm sure as a 2 year old, she has no idea who he is. She's just heard the name enough to think it's fun to say. When she got the reaction out of Lydia and I, (practically rolling on the floor laughing) she continued to repeat it over and over. Today, it has been the phrase of the day in our house.

Violet's 2nd Birthday

2008-07-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

Our sweet Violet turned 2 on July 12th. We are so blessed to have her in our family. She radiates joy wherever she goes (most of the time!). I have never met a kid who smiles more than her. It's been so much fun so far, I can just imagine all of the fun that is to come!

Her Birthday was on Saturday. She woke up that morning to a house filled with balloons and presents. We thought it would be fun for Ryan, Lydia, and I to go in her room and sing Happy Birthday when she woke up. Not a good idea. She was so distraught about the band-aid on her knee from skinning it the night before, she screamed and cried the whole time we sang. What a home video that turned out to be!

On Sunday we had a party at Sherm and Becky's new house. When she wants to go there she says "Papa, new Papa." She says it all the time! Grandma and Grandpa Biggs came up, and we had so much fun!

Then on Monday we had a party with some of our friends at Willow Park Zoo. The lucky girl had a birthday for 3 days! No wonder she tells everyone "Happy to you" all the time (usually as a part of a farewell- "Bye bye! Happy to you!").

Some other cute things she has been saying are "my want it" and "I foun it!". And every mark on her body, if you ask what happened, she says "Sissy did it." Last night I pointed at a mole on her belly and said it was so cute, and she said "Sissy did it"!

Here are some pictures of her Birthday marathon...

Violet with her cool new sunglasses and purse from Grandma and Papa Foht.

The Hello Kitty cake I made for her party at Grandma and Grandpa Conger's.

She loved all of her presents, but she was especially excited about her "Wall-E" coloring book from Emma.

Our party at Willow park and zoo on Monday.

The ice cream cone cup cakes were a hit!

Oh, my sweet little Violet, you are becoming an independent little sprite whether I'm ready or not! I love you so much!

Cute T-shirts

2008-07-10T14:14:00.000-07:00

Every now and then I get totally sucked into this website. They have millions of t-shirt designs, so I often spend way too much time checking them out. Here are some of my favorites for the girls...

Save Some For Me

Potty like a rockstar

ipood

Daddy did my hair

"My grandparents don't spoil me
they're just very accomodating."

Elmo is my homeboy

Hello my name is Poopy Stinkerpants

John Paul George Ringo

Lydia's Wheel Throw At Art on the Lawn

2008-07-06T14:03:00.001-07:00

A Positive Side to Airheadedness

2008-07-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

Image of painting from http://www.spikedolomite.com/still_life.htm

You know how people say if we were never sad, we wouldn't appreciate our happiness as much? Well, I think the same holds true for being an airhead. There are so many times that we have so much on our minds and on our "to do" lists that some things, small, and the unfortunate big, fall through the cracks.

For me, remembering to take out the trash is one of those things that tends to fall through more than others. I can't stand the feeling of hearing the garbage truck zoom by, and realizing that it's too late now. Especially for the recycling, which only comes every other week, so if we miss it, the can gets so full we actually have to make room for surplus until it's emptied. When we miss taking the trash to the curb, we are haunted by a mass of old stinky diapers every time we lift the lid. We are reminded daily what airheads we are for forgetting.

Tuesday night, I remembered to put out our three cans. Wednesday morning came and I heard the first one being emptied. I think I appreciated that sound more than most people who are responsible and take out the trash every week right on time, every time.
So, if I wasn't forgetful, I would have no true appreciation of what it feels like to be so responsible, right?!

(Oh, man, did that post just seem like one of those awful Arctic Circle commercials I despise?)

Fun with Papa!

2008-06-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

Lately Lydia has loved spending time with her grandpa Conger on Saturdays, cruisin' around in his convertible and going out for slurpies (known in our house as "slurpers") from 7/11.
This picture was from last Saturday when Violet went with for the first time. They had so much fun. It's definitely a memory of Grandpa Conger that they will always cherish, I'm sure!

Silly Girls!

2008-06-23T15:33:00.000-07:00

We got it!

2008-06-19T20:29:00.000-07:00

We finally got the warm weather we've been waiting for and we're loving it!

Lydia started summer school at the lab preschool at the university this week. It runs for 8 weeks. Then she'll be in art camp for two weeks, and swimming lessons in August. In September she will be starting kindergarten, and I am thinking about starting her in the youth conservatory piano program at USU. There is just so much out there for kids to do once they turn 5! I'm having a hard time deciding what to put her in. If it were up to her, she would be in the ones I mentioned, plus gymnastics, soccer, guitar lessons, and horse back riding lessons!

Violet will be turning 2 next month. I can't believe it. I had a tear jerking moment with her tonight. I was holding her on the rocking chair in her room and reading to her like we do every night before bed. She squirmed off my lap and said "Sit" as she wedged herself beside me on the chair. It was one of those moments of "I'm getting too big for you to hold me". I had to let a tear fall for that one!
She is quite the performer as anyone who saw her at Summerfest can attest too! She stole the show during Ryan's band performances on Friday and Saturday. She had some pretty funky dance moves, and she made sure that everyone saw her! Yesterday, while I was hanging my show at the Thatcher Mansion, a photographer from the newspaper came to take pictures for my article in Friday's paper. Once again, Violet went right in front of the camera and did everything she could to impress the photographer. Violet got her way- she'll be in the paper now too!

I want fun in the sun!

2008-06-11T15:27:00.000-07:00

This is me and my sister Janel at about the same age as Lydia and Violet are.
We had so much fun playing together when we were little. Since we didn't have close neighbors, we only had each other to play with in the summer. That was good and bad :), but mostly good. Lydia and Violet have just started to really play together and it's the cutest thing. They've already started teaming up on me and Ryan and causing sneaky trouble!

I want to get out their pool so bad, but we just haven't had the weather for it yet!

I think I kind of look like Violet in this picture.

My Deva Haircut

2008-06-10T15:01:00.000-07:00

I used to have pretty curly hair. Tight waves and spirals easily formed. Then I began highlighting and straightening my hair with a straightening iron, and using products to smooth my hair, all of which were really killing my curls. My goal is to get my curlies back!
On Saturday, I got my first Deva haircut. This is a special haircut specifically for curly hair given by a stylist who has been trained in the art of the Deva cut:). It was the most educational haircut I've ever gotten.
She cut my hair dry, then washed it, clipped and twisted the top (very quickly and simply) and blow dried with a diffuser. Then after seeing how my hair would lay, she began to cut little snips out here and there at different lengths to accentuate my curls.
I really like it. It takes way less time for me to do, and I don't have to use any hairspray to set my hair in a certain way. Plus, the information I learned about how to take care of my hair was the most beneficial. Our curls are so delicate! Hopefully mine will be returning soon.

Mini Photo Shoot With Violet

2008-06-05T20:15:00.000-07:00

I gave Violet another mullet reduction hair cut the other day, and decided to give her a pixie hairdo. She looked so cute I had to take some pictures! Here are a few...

Yay, I sold 2!

2008-06-02T15:23:00.001-07:00

I am so happy that I have sold 2 of my paintings. It's always hard to let them go, but I will set them free to beautify someone else's surroundings. (Plus, I could really use the money to buy more supplies!)

So long sweet Bluebird may you sing for many, many years!

Ride on with your big wheel sir, long after I'm gone!

I feel very flattered that "Big Wheel" was purchased by an Art professor. These sales have inspired and motivated me to keep making more! It's so much fun. I would love to be able to make a career out of it!

Dream of Death

2008-05-28T14:23:00.000-07:00

This morning I awoke form a very lucid dream that left me deep in thought today. Have you ever had a dream that was so profound you knew it had a special purpose? This was one of those dreams. Although some things that happened in this dream would never happen in real life, it was all so very real to me. I always dream in color, and I was myself in the dream, not an observer.

I dreamed that I was dying of cancer. I had been suffering for a long time, and decided that I would take a prescribed pill to end my life. I went to the mortuary and sat in a room with my empty casket with loved ones all around me, and I took the pill and got ready to climb into my casket. As I was about to do this, a strong feeling hit me, and I stopped and said, "No, I don't want this to happen right now! Call a doctor to save me from this pill I just took!" So the Doctor came in and I said, " I don't want give up! I will fight this cancer and win! I will exercise more, and eat better!" So I got another chance, still not knowing how long I would survive, and I had the feeling that I could still die very soon.
Later on, I was at my home and there were people stopping over to see me. A woman who was an artist that I had booked for a show at the Ibis came to show me some of her work. The frames that she had her work in were very cheap and you could see tension brackets around the sides of her work through the glass. Normally, I would be very sweet and apologetic and suggest other options, but after all I had been through, I said " I hate those frames, they look awful." Then, a nice person in the room suggested that she outline her work with a pen. I said "No way, that would look terrible. You need to do some serious work to make these look presentable."

I remember feeling like, "This lady should know the truth or she'll never make it as an artist."

End of dream.

(I do not remember the people at the mortuary with me, but I know for sure that my girls weren't there. I also don't remember who was at my house, or if Ryan was in this dream at all.)

I am no dream interpreter, but this was very profound. I got out of bed, really ready to devote myself to more exercise, and healthier eating habits. I did yoga, and went for a walk this morning. As for the art thing, it made me realize that with the idea that I could drop dead any minute, I was more honest and less like my "try not to offend anyone" self.

Any interpretations would be appreciated and entertaining I'm sure!

Death (taken From http://www.sleeps.com/analysis.html)

Nearly any dream you have that refers to death, dying or attending a funeral, or the like, pertain to change. Most all the time this change is very dramatic and major. It can be change in your life attitude or emotional balance. These types of dreams can also symbolize confronting fear, usually fear of death or change. Since most of use will agree that death is the ultimate change, and many people fear it. Death dreams are generally big changes and should never be ignored. Sometimes they really do signify death! Another possible symbol of a death dream is threat. Whichever suits the dream depends on how well the theme was arrived at. Most death dreams are about major change and not about literal death though, so don't panic if you have one. Just patiently go through the analysis process, and make sense of it.

My house smells so good!

2008-05-24T17:06:00.000-07:00

We are so lucky to have a beautiful thick row of mature lilac bushes in our yard. There are light purple, dark purple and white and they smell so o o wonderful!

Disneyland Video #1

2008-05-23T21:32:00.000-07:00

I have a couple Disneyland videos that are short and cute that I've been wanting to post...

We were standing in line waiting for the Holy Gates to open to Disneyland, and there was some Disney music blaring so Emma started dancing. I just had to get a video. (She didn't know I was taping her at first.) She is so fun! Dinsneyland wouldn't have been the same without Emma. (I hope you don't mind me posting this, Emma! ps. you rock!:)

Happy Birthday Joel!

2008-05-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

My cute nephew Joel turned 4 today! He is such a fun and sweet boy! I wish we could see them more often. The last time they were here, Joel said that he was "Optimus Prime", and of course we were all supposed to call him that. He is so funny! He and Lydia love to play together too.

Happy birthday big guy!

Lydia's 5 Year Check-up

2008-05-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

(I'll be posting about Disneyland soon. But first...)

I took Lydia in for her 5 year check-up with Dr. McKenna today. Everything went well, except that she has scoliosis. It is not bad enough to treat at this age. He said she has a 7-10 degree curve. They usually don't treat children unless they have at least a 20 degree curve. He wants to check her again in 6 months and possibly have some x-rays taken. He said that before and during puberty, when she has a big growth spurt, she will probably have to wear a brace. I'm sure that won't be very fun for her, but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it!

On a lighter note, she had a hilarious conversation with the Dr. that I just have to share! This is how it went...

Dr: Lydia, do you know what the first thing we have to do in a car before we can drive anywhere is?

Lydia: Yes! Pay for it!

Dr: Well, yes, but what do we do when we get in the car?

Lydia: We drive around and try not to get in an accident.

Dr: Yes, but what do we have to wear when we are in the car?

Lydia: I know! Clothes!

Ha Ha! Eventually she got it but the Dr. and I were cracking up the whole time!

My Art Show

2008-05-14T15:33:00.000-07:00

I hung my art at Caffe Ibis last Thursday. Here is a slide show of my work. They are all in black frames . They are also different sizes, but the photo show made them all the same size. It feels so great to see them all up together in an exhibit! Enjoy!

2008-05-10T14:50:00.000-07:00

You Are Ginger

Like ginger, you are a total shape shifter.

You can be sweet, spicy, mellow, or overpowering.

You are both soothing and unique. You are popular... yet you are often overlooked.

What Spice Are You?

Lydia's 5th Birthday!

2008-05-10T10:13:00.000-07:00

On April 26th, we had an awesome Island birthday party for Lydia. Her favorite book is Island of the Blue Dolphins, so she wanted to have an Island theme. At first it was going to be "Barbie, Island Princess", but she wanted to invite boys and I told her that boys might not want to come to a Barbie party. So then she said she wanted to make it "Barbie Island Princess/ Spider Man". I told her I wasn't going to buy two different themes of birthday supplies, so we settled for just "Island".These are the island cupcakes I made with sugar cookie palm trees.

There were 10 kids including Lydia. There was supposed to be 11, but Madison, a little girl from Lydia's class had to go home because she was scared of Ryan's pony tail (that's a different story...). Right around present time, Lydia siad she didn't feel very well. Then about 2 hours after her party, her and Violet began throwing up which lasted throughout the night. So far, Lydia has puked 3 out of 5 birthdays. I don't know what it is! The rest of us were fine. Poor girl!

She is so big now. She does so much more now that she's five. She is constantly reminding me that she is too!

Quick Post- my birthday

2008-05-03T20:57:00.000-07:00

My Birthday was so sweet. It was way back on April 14th. I received lots of love, and some great gifts. I love all of them, but I just wanted to share two great gifts I received.

These lovely tulips and vase were from Emma.

This was the ipod that I got from Lydia!

Update: Too Busy!

2008-04-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in so long, I don't even know if anyone will bother to check my blog anymore! I have been so busy! As of late, the things overflowing on my platter are:

1. Preparing for my exhibit at Caffe Ibis on May 9th (a last minute, yet, how could I NOT do it art show).
2. Getting ready for Lydia's 5th Birthday party on Saturday (planning, delivering invites, making treats & favors, etc...) .
3. Getting the house ready for my parents who are coming this weekend. This means the biggest Spring cleaning of the year. If there is a crumb where it shouldn't be, my mom will find it. Not that she'll even care, but I'll still feel ashamed!
4. Ryan's graduating on My 3rd! I haven't sent out invites, so anyone reading this, "You are invited to our house after the ceremony on Saturday!"
5. The best part! On May 4th, we are going to Disneyland with Sherm, Becky, Emma, Emma's friend Erin, James, Jon, and my parents!
6. The next day, I hang my show!

Along with all of these things crowding my plate (Emma, I think you would understand, I know how you hate it when your peas touch your potatoes!) I am also working at least 10 hours a week for the Ibis and teaching dance.

BUT, let me just say, so that I don't seem too pessimistic, that once these things have past, I know I will be a better person with a very clean house!

Dayna And Her Cute Lil Ones

2008-04-08T15:19:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law Dayna was visiting Logan with her son Joel and daughter Emme last week. We had a lot of fun with them. Lydia and Joel played so well together. It was great to catch up with Dyna a bit. I love being around her. She is one of those people that just sparkle, if you know what I mean. Little, or should I say, BIG Emme is 6 months old and has gotten so big so fast. She looks like a cute little cherub! Here are some pics...

Emme was having a hard time gaining weight at first. She's very healthy now! Isn't she SO BEAUTIFUL?!!
There is no doubt Lydia and Joel are related in this picture. They really have similarities that I've never noticed before.

Ode to the '68 VW Squareback

2008-04-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

When I met Ryan, I drove a gold '68 VW Squareback. It was the cutest car I've ever seen. If anyone has owned a vintage VW, I'm sure you understand what it's like. You love them until you're broke, and then you move on. Someday, I wish to have a fully restored (restoration done by someone else please) one like this.

Here is I poem I wrote in her memory...

To the '68 squareback that once was my ride
I think of once having you and smile with pride
Not just because your shape was so sweet
but that I've lived to talk about our cruisin' the streets
You came to me battered, dull and abused
seeing the smile above your bumper I couldn't refuse
I called you "Zucker", sugar in German
(Under your front I found nests left from vermin)
Driving you was a day at the park
apart from the squealing, sputtering and sparks
Pumping the breaks, hoping they'd work
'till relieved, I felt that old herky jerk
I gave you my love, almost all of my pay
but alas "You can do it!" was all I could say
So I released you to roam with some hippie chick
who left you in California cuz she couldn't drive a stick
Because of the rocks clogging your gas pump
you are probably rotting away in a dump.
I'll never forget you!

Princesses on Ice

2008-03-26T19:31:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while! I've been hoping to find the time to post about "Disney Princesses on Ice" we went to on March 9th. It was a lot of fun. Here are some pics...
This is what Lydia wanted to wear that day. It wasn't raining, but she had saved her own money to buy rain boots and we bought her the matching rain coat. Since they had just come in the mail the day before, she couldn't wait to wear them! She looked so cute!

Violet saw Lydia getting her picture taken by the door, and as soon as Lydia was out of the way, she stood there and smiled as if to say "My turn!".

Ryan and the girls at the Energy Solutions Arena. Everything was so expensive! A bag of cotton candy with a flimsy foam hat attached was the cheapest thing for $10!

Here we are in our awesome seats in the 9th row!

Violet had lots of fun for about the first 30 minutes. Then she just wanted to break out and run for it. When it was over, as soon as we walked outside, she clapped and yelled "yay!" Not because we had just seen a really great show, but because we were FINALLY outside! (Doesn't she look so big with her piggy tails?)

I didn't get many great still photos, but I have a lot of wonderful video. What a fun memory for us! Well, maybe not for Violet, but she probably wouldn't remember it anyway!

Tagged!

2008-03-06T21:00:00.000-08:00

Emma and Tegan both tagged me so I better respond or I don't know what might happen...(Kidding!)

The ABC's of Me

A-Attached or single? happily married!
B-Best friend? My Sister Janel
C-Cake or pie? Cheesecake
D-Day of choice? Saturday
E-Essential item? cell phone, strawberry twizzlers
F-Favorite color? to paint with- teal, and iridescent copper (together)
G-Gummy bears or worms? whatever I feel like that day
H-Hometown? Dubuque, IA
I-Favorite indulgence? skin care
J-January or July? July. I love Hot Hot weather!
K-Kids? Lydia- almost 5, Violet 1 1/2
L-Life isn't complete without? God, My family, and friends
M-Marriage date? 5/26/00
N-Number of brothers and sisters? 1 sister
O-Oranges or apples? Both
P-Phobia and fears? flying. I'm getting better the more I do it though.
Q- Quote? Be like the bird that passing in her flight, awhile on boughs too silent, feels them give way beneath her, yet sings, knowing she hath wings. -Victor Hugo
R-Reason to smile? My cutie girls!
S-Season of choice? Summer. Swimsuits, sun, popsicles...
T-Tag three people: Dayna, Tonia, Janel
U-Unknown fact about me? I can't stand when people drag their fork across their teeth when they eat!
V-Vegetable? Anything but canned peas, I think!
W-Worst habit? Biting the insides of my cheeks.
X-X-ray or ultrasound? Depends on whether the ultrasound is internal or external. Of course I'd prefer EXTERNAL!
Y-Your favorite food? Sushi.
Z-Zodiac sign? Aries

Stitches!

2008-03-04T15:31:00.000-08:00

We were at my women's Bible study at my neighbors' house yesterday. My 9 year old neighbor Aubrey is home schooled and always has a lesson and craft prepared for the 4 or so younger kids to do while the moms have their study. All the kids were sitting at the dining room table and Aubrey was trying to cut some yarn, but her little kid safety scissors just weren't doing the job. She knows she's not supposed to bother her Mom during study, so she decided to go and get her Mom's super sharp scissors for the job. Well, as she was holding up the pieces of yarn and snipping them, Lydia's ear got in the way!

Lydia didn't cry or even say anything. In fact, My friend Lora went in to check on her son, and I heard her say, "Lydia are you o.k.?" But since she wasn't crying, I figured she was. Then Lora came up to me and said, "Holly, Lydia has a cut on her ear, but don't freak out, 'cuz ears bleed a lot." I went in and and found Lydia holding a blood soaked wash cloth on her ear. It looked pretty bad to me, but I tend to over-react when in comes to blood, so I asked the other ladies for their opinion. They all thought I should just butterfly bandage it.

Tanya, my neighbor and I didn't have any butterfly bandages, so I went into town to get some. But, being the way I am, I couldn't settle for the butterfly bandage. I kept thinking "What if she does need stitches and her ear becomes deformed or something?" So, I called Ryan out of his class for his opinion. He decided too, that it would be best to take her to the Emergency room.

Luckily we did because she needed 3 stitches! I told the Dr. that I almost didn't bring her in, and he said that I would have ended up bringing her in anyway. I guess it would have started to look pretty nasty if we had let it go.

So YAY for me and my "freak out" motherly instinct!

Throughout the whole process, Lydia did not shed a single tear. We were at the emergency room for over 1 1/2 hours, and we got to watch a movie, and she actually siad "Mommy, this is fun!" Later on that day, she said,"This has been a great Day! I got to have a sucker, (which I gave her on the way into town) a popsicle (they gave her at the hospital), and Daddy gave me easter candy!" Wow! I have such a tough kid. I think I would have cried if it were me!

Lydia And Violet's Little Play House

2008-02-26T20:37:00.001-08:00

When we got our washer, we decided that we definitely had to keep the box. When we got our dryer a while back, Ryan made it into a little fort for Lydia and she thought it was the coolest thing ever. So, this time we had to make the box fort extra cool! Ryan cut out shapes all around it for the Door, windows, peek-a-boo holes, and a star shaped sunroof. Then we got our painting clothes on, covered the kitchen floor with tarps, and we all painted it together. Violet preferred to paint herself, but she did get some paint on the fort! It was so much fun. Right now it's in our living room. Like the last one, it won't last for too long, but we'll enjoy it while we have it!

Our New Washer!

2008-02-23T13:03:00.001-08:00

Our new washer was delivered to our house this morning! It's awesome! I can't wait to do laundry!! We got such a great deal on it- almost 1/2 off. It was $100 off, plus an extra 10% plus $150 in rebates from the gas and electric companies, plus free delivery and installation and haul away of the old washer. And we are going to save so much because it's so efficient too! (Thanks for the extra $ George W.!)

I Feel The Earth Move Under My Feet....

2008-02-21T10:37:00.000-08:00

This morning there was an earthquake in Northeastern Nevada, that was felt here in Cache Valley! It was a 6.0! I guess it was felt from Northern Idaho all the way to Southern California. One building collapsed in Nevada, but other than that, there were just some cracked walls and pictures that fell off the walls.
When Ryan's friends told him about it when he went to school, they said that it woke them up. I was awake laying in bed at the time it happened and I didn't fell anything. I kind of wish that I did so I'd have some sort of story about my first earthquake experience.
My sister studied the fault line in Cache Valley when she was in college, and she said that it is always active. So, I guess I have been through many earthquakes, I just can't feel them. Next time I feel a little unstable or off balance, I'm blaming it on the active fault line!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T16:06:00.001-08:00

"Chrystal Snowmaid"

2008-02-10T14:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday it was about 40 degrees and awesome outside, so we all went out to play in the snow. We really haven't had great "snowman" snow this year because it's been so cold, but yesterday the snow packed awesome, so we decided to make a snowman. After we had the three huge snowballs piled on top of each other, Lydia said "I know Mommy, let's make a mermaid!" So, thinking that it would be a really fun thing to do together, I started shaping our snowman into a mermaid. The snow was so easy to sculpt, that I was having so much fun, I hadn't even payed attention to the fact that Lydia wasn't helping me at all- she was off playing in the snow somewhere else. So, I got a little carried away. After two almost hour long sessions, I had to stop (even though I felt like she wasn't quite finished!). I did make her her tail and body thinner after taking the picture, but haven't had a chance to go back out yet to do more.
Lydia and I decided to call her Chrystal Snowmaid. I enjoyed doing this form of art because it's here and gone so fast, that you have to appreciate it as much as you can in the NOW. It's a good reminder of how things and people can be here one moment and gone the next, so we need to appreciate them while we can!
My neighbor girl told me that she came over and took pictures of her yesterday, and today people have been driving by slowly to look at her. I'm glad she's getting seen before she's gone forever!

2008-02-07T09:03:00.000-08:00

When my Grandpa died, my sister was inspired to write this beautiful poem in his memory. I have always thought of my sister as a creative woman, and she inspires me so much, but I haven't read much poetry of hers. I am so impressed. Just another of the million things I love about her!

"The Fisherman"

by: Janel Graham

A man sitting in his boat
Fishing pole in hand
Sunlight on the water
A flash, a splash
The remaining ripple of where a fish just jumped.
A deer on the shore
A heron flies over
A beer in his hand
His wife smiles across the way
Grandkids squealing with excitement
A bobber disappears
“A quarter for the first, the biggest and the most,” he’d say.
A full boat
A full basket of fish
A full heart
A full life.

A man sitting in his boat
Fishing pole in hand
A stranger on the shore beckons to the man.
“Drop your net and follow me.”
“How do I follow you?” asks the man.
The stranger replies. “Believe.”
Out of his boat steps the man
and takes the strangers hand.

I Love Her

2008-02-05T07:38:00.001-08:00

I saw the commercial for the Mac Air a few weeks ago, and instantly thought "I have to find out who the singer of that cool song is!" So I Googled her. Her name is Yael Niam. She was born in Paris and raised in Isreal and had a classical music upbringing. I also found this beautiful video on Youtube that is really great. It sort of reminds me of one of my favorite foreign movies "Amalie". I watched some other clips of her on Youtube as well. She's very different from anyone I've seen before. Very quirky, but in a unique beautiful sort of way. Check out the video...

2008-01-31T16:03:00.000-08:00

My beautiful Mom turned 60 last week. There isn't a better mom out there. I love her so much!

Grandpa Jones

2008-01-31T15:48:00.001-08:00

Last Monday, on my Mom's 60th birthday, my Grandpa Jones (her dad) passed away. On Tuesday, me and the girls hopped on a plane to Milwaukee and spent the following days in Dubuque for his funeral and wake. Although the circumstances were very sad, we had a wonderful time. All of my cousins on the Jones side were there except one. I realized while I was there how close my family really is. That in a time like this, we all do whatever it takes to be there for each other. There were lots of tears, but also lots of laughter and memories. The wake and the funeral were the most beautiful services I have ever been to. I'm sure Grandpa would be pleased. He will be greatly missed and REMEMBERED!
Here are some pictures I took of some of my Mom's pictures of my grandpa...

Thank you Jesus

2008-01-16T19:54:00.000-08:00

So I turned on the TV tonight and the show "The Power Of Ten" was on. I've never seen it before. If you haven't seen it, it has Drew Carey as the host and people are asked what percentage of Americans answered a certain question in what way. One of the questions was "What percentage of Americans, if they were accepting an award would thank Jesus in their acceptance speech?"
First, I wondered what percentage of Americans were Christian. I thought of many Christian religions, and therefore, my guess was about 40%. Then I thought, out of that 40%, I bet only half of them would actually thank Jesus.
Boy was I wrong! The answer was-
62% of Americans would thank Jesus in an acceptance speech.
That's actually pretty cool! I'm not sure where they get their answers for this show, or how many people actually answer the questions for them, but it is pretty cool to think that over half of the people in this country would give thanks to Jesus for their accomplishments.

Sweet Lydia

2008-01-14T15:43:00.001-08:00

When our children are newborn, we shower them with love, expecting nothing in return. When they are babies, they want us to hold them, because it feels so good. As toddlers, they start to hug us on their own accord, which is heaven! Then, they get older, and start doing sweet little things for us like writing love letters and drawing sweet pictures for us to show us that we are loved in return. I love it. I get the feeling that all the ups and downs have paid off and I really am a great mom when things like that happen.
Lydia drew this picture of me and her yesterday. She worked so hard on it. I love her forms of affection. They are so innocent and real.

A Desperate Cry For Help!

2008-01-12T19:26:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows Lydia, knows that she is quite the little "drama queen"! I was out shopping tonight and Ryan was home with the girls. Lydia was bouncing of the walls and Ryan was making dinner, so he told her to go sit on the couch and relax. She refused, and said she'd rather go to her room. Ryan agreed, and told her to go in her room and cool off. Being the drama queen that she is, she saw this as a horrible punishment, and that she needed someone to save her. So, I returned from shopping to see this note taped to Lydia's bedroom door.
The poor girl. She'll probably be scarred for life for having to cool off in her room!

Snow fun!

2008-01-12T19:13:00.000-08:00

Lydia's "Hang Loose"

We went sledding last week and had so much fun! It was Violet's first time going sledding. Both girls had a blast! We went to a park nearby that has what we call "the Bowl". It's kind of crazy, because there are people going down the hill all around you, and you have to be careful not to collide in the middle! At the very end, Ryan decided to take Lydia down one of the biggest, steepest hills there. They flew so fast! Lydia just kept saying "That was so INTENSE!" over and over. Then we came home and had Lydia's favorite treat- hot cocoa and toast sticks!

Our New Honda CR-V!

2008-01-03T17:07:00.000-08:00

We are happy to announce the new addition to our family- a 2001 Honda CR-V!

It's got 53 K miles and is in MINT condition!
It's got nice leather interior too!
Hopefully we will have many years with this car and make great memories in it too!

Who should paint my portrait?

2007-12-23T15:25:00.000-08:00

Who Should Paint You: Pablo Picasso

Your an expressive soul who shows many emotions, with many subtleties
Only a master painter could represent your glorious contradictions

What Artist Should Paint Your Portrait?

Violet The Dancing Queen

2007-12-11T12:15:00.000-08:00

This is kind of dark, but it's of Violet dancing. It's so cute! She loves to dance so much. Sometimes she'll even dance when there's no music!

Happy 30 Ryan!

2007-12-10T15:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Ryan! I can't believe that we started dating when you were only 20! We've come so far together and it's been so much fun! I love you so much. Have a great 31st journey around the sun!

Our Fun Girls

2007-12-10T15:16:00.000-08:00

Lydia had her last day of school for this semester on Friday. She begged me to buy her some hair rollers and do her hair like a princess for her last day of school. So I bought some rollers at the dollar store and we played Beauty Salon Thursday night. She slept with them in without complaining one bit and awoke the next morning to beautiful curly locks! Don't you love her pretty pose?

Violet's new favorite thing to do is to empty out the kids' kitchen drawer and get inside and play! It's so cute! She wants to do it all the time, but she can't open the drawer by herself. She stands in front of it and points and says "Ah...Ah..." when she wants me to open it for her.

Ho Ho Ho- HA HA HA!

2007-11-28T19:51:00.000-08:00

SYDNEY, Australia — He is an unlikely revolutionary, but this Christmas, Santa is a rebel with a claus.

He is having the last laugh on political correctness — and it's a great big fat belly laugh.

Santas across Sydney, Australia, are rebelling against attempts to ban their traditional greeting of "ho, ho, ho" in favor of "ha, ha, ha."

Recruitment firm Westaff — which supplies hundreds of Santas across the country — has told its trainees that the "ho ho ho" phrase could frighten children and could even be derogatory to women.

For the rest of the story, click here.

Painting With Lydia

2007-11-20T13:45:00.001-08:00

Lydia and I did our first painting together last week. It was so much fun! I taught her different painting techniques all with craft paint, a paintbrush, q-tips, toothpicks, and cotton balls. She caught on so fast! First, we talked about what she wanted a picture of. When she said a castle, I told her to look in her books for ideas. She got to decide where everything would go, including the ground and sky line. She painted the sky, the grass, bushes, flowers, the tree, a lot of the details on the castle, and the princesses' shoes, some of their dresses, all of their accessories, and all but one bird in the sky!

We are working on another painting today!

Ryan's Senior Recital!

2007-11-20T09:54:00.000-08:00

Yay! Ryan had his senior recital on Sunday and it was INCREDIBLE!!!! I was seriously one of the coolest concerts I've ever been to (and I'm not just saying that because I am so fond of him!) He has worked so hard for this. It's so great to be with him and watch his dreams come true. He is such an amazing husband, Dad, musician, friend, and so much more. During and after the recital I was grinning from ear to ear. I couldn't be more proud!

I am also so glad to have this over too, because now I have my husband back. This recital has consumed him all semester. Although he was physically near me, his mind was always on this recital. Now we can just talk about anything!

Violet Loves Her Mama!

2007-11-13T22:59:00.001-08:00

This is such a cute video of Violet! Ryan walked in with the camera as she was supposed to be taking a nap. She obviously had other plans...

Sorry about the video being sideways at first. Ryan's still figuring out the video thing.

If I Could Make My Girls Clothes

2007-11-10T19:36:00.001-08:00

If I could make clothing for my girls (someday I'll give it a try), these are some designs that inspire me...

Aren't they cute? I found them at

willarie.etsy.com

I've Been Bad...

2007-11-10T19:31:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while! I've been super busy. I've been working more hours at the Ibis in the mornings before Ryan goes to school and working on lots of side projects.

2007-10-28T21:25:00.000-07:00

Here she is! She's absolutely beautiful!

Janel Had Her Baby!

2007-10-28T11:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Earth little Chloe Isabella Graham! She was over 3 weeks early, but very healthy @ 6 lbs. 15oz. and 20" long. Janel and Chloe (and Warren) are doing great. Congrats Graham family! Love the name!

My City... if I were a city gal

2007-10-25T21:37:00.000-07:00

I took the city test. Rome sounds very nice! Someday...

You Belong in Rome

You're a big city soul with a small town heart
Which is why you're attracted to the romance of Rome
Strolling down picture perfect streets, cappuccino in hand
And gorgeous Italian people - could life get any better?

What City Do You Belong In?