I Haven't Even Begun to Procrastinate!

It Finally Happened!!

2012-02-18T01:04:00.002-07:00

My last post announced that we were chosen by a birth mother. The Lord felt it was time to answer our prayers. We are finally parents!!

Introducing our beautiful daughter Sophia. She was born January 29th, 16 days early! Our birth mother almost delivered in the car. It was close, but they did make it to the hospital (BARELY!!). She was born in the hallway at the hospital!

We were able to spend several hours at the hospital with our birth mother before going back to Mike's brother's house in Albuquerque. We stayed there waiting for the relinquishment hearing that took place in Grants, NM.

We attended the hearing at the request of our birth mother. After it was over, she handed me a letter before she left. I sat in the hall of the court house and read the letter. It was so beautiful. I just sobbed. All of the emotion that I had been holding in, waiting for this to happen came out.

We feel so blessed and humbled to have this sweet spirit in our lives.

Thank you to all of you who have supported us through this long and uphill journey to parenthood.

The Best Gift Ever!

2011-12-17T11:31:00.000-07:00

The day before Thanksgiving we received an email from our adoption attorney about a possible adoption situation. There were some details that she needed to disclose to gauge our interest. Ad after discussion and prayer, we told her we were still interested.

We put together a paper profile and she presented our profile (along with a few others) to the birth mother. After what seemed like FOREVER, our attorney called us to let us know that the birth mother chose us!!!!!!!

So, if all works out, we will be parents in February!!!

Best. Christmas. Ever!

Creamy Chicken Piccata

2011-12-01T20:11:00.001-07:00

I love finding new recipes. I was looking for something to make dinner and couldn't think of anything, so I turned to the internet and found this dish.

My husband REALLY liked it, (honestly, so did I). It is another keeper recipe.

The blog I found it on adapted this recipe from the Pioneer Woman. I adapted it yet again.

The marinated chicken. Can you see the basil and pepper??? Ohhhh... the goodness!
The "juice" is some of the marinade and water from the chicken.
The excess liquid does evaporate.

See?? The extra liquid is gone.

The sauce was REALLY lemony and that is why I adapted the recipe.
It's not that I don't like lemon, but it totally took over the flavor of the sauce.
I also omitted the capers. I am not a fan of them.

Here is the finished product. OMG!!!

Creamy Grilled Chicken Piccata
inspired by The Pioneer Woman

Chicken
6 Tbsp lemon juice
6 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp minced garlic
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp basil
8 hand trimmed thin cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Pasta & Sauce
1 package penne pasta cooked

4 Tbsp butter
12 Tbsp lemon juice
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1 pint half and half (or heavy cream)
½ tsp nutmeg

4 tsp dried basil
2 Tbsp capers
2 cups grated fresh parmesan cheese

2 tsp chicken base

Chicken
Combine first 6 ingredients in Ziploc bag and mix well. Place chicken inthe bag with the marinade Marinate for a few hours in the refrigerator.

Start pasta about 5 minutes ahead of everything and cookaccording to directions.

Cook chicken in a frying pan. Once chicken is done, remove chicken and letrest. In same pan, melt butter overmedium heat. Whisk in chicken base, garlic and lemon juice. Pour inhalf and half and nutmeg then whisk until hot. Add the parmesan cheese,basil and capers, then heat until cheese is melted. Toss in pasta.

Slice chicken into strips and serve over pasta.

The Baking Has Begun!

2011-11-22T15:30:00.001-07:00

The past two days have been filled with the aroma of Thanksgiving. Cinnamon......pumpkin.....apple.... oh yeah.

Pies, cookies and cakes. Oh man. I love the holidays!

Snickerdoodle Blondies

2011-11-14T19:57:00.001-07:00

I have been cooking and baking for years. I have read all sorts of blogs are all about baking and cooking. I got to thinking, why not put the stuff I make on my blog.

I am not as organized, sophisticated or good at photographing food as many others, I usually don't even think about taking pictures until I am done, but oh well.

Here is the finished product:

Although they don't taste exactly like a Snickerdoodle cookie, they are delicious!!!

Snickerdoodle Blondies
http://reciperhapsody.wordpress.com

Cookies:
2 2/3 cups all-purposeflour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups brown sugar, packed
1 cup butter, at roomtemperature
2 large eggs, at roomtemperature
1 tablespoon vanillaextract

Topping:
2 tablespoons granulatedsugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg

Preheat oven to 350 degreesF. Spray 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray, line pan with parchment andlet it hang over the sides, then spray the parchment with nonstick spraytoo. (The parchment is optional but creates nice handles to lift the bars outfor easier cutting.) In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder,cinnamon, nutmeg, cream of tartar and salt; set aside. In a large bowl, creamtogether butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer (3 to 5 minutes). Mix ineggs, one at a time, then vanilla, beating until smooth. Stir in flour mixtureuntil well blended. The batter will be thick. Spread it evenly into theprepared pan. Spray your hands with cooking spray and use them to pat themixture down evenly. Combine the topping ingredients in a small bowl; sprinkleevenly on top of batter. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until surface springs backwhen gently pressed. Let pan cool completely. When ready to cut, use ends ofparchment paper to lift out baked bars. Place on a cutting board. Use a large, sharpknife to cut into bars.

Makes 20 to 24 bars

Braised Chicken with Tomatillos and Jalapenos

2011-11-13T20:11:00.001-07:00

I was watching the Food Channel and Ann Burrell was on making this dish. I normally don't make things I see off the food network, but this looked too good not to try!

This is the chicken simmering in the tomatillo and jalapeno mixture

This is the sour cream with the lime zest and lime juice.

The finished product!

I had to make a few slight adjustments to the recipe, just because of what I had in the house. I only had 3 tomatillos, so I used 2 tomatoes. I also used boneless, skinless breasts. I left the seeds of both jalapenos in there. It gave it some heat, but not too much.

Now, I have not perfected my food photography. It looks so much better in person.

Whenever I make a new recipe, I always have my husband take the first bite and wait for his reaction. If it was really good, he'll shake his head and say "oh man". I got my "oh man". It was delicious!!

So, without further ado, here is the recipe:

Braised Chicken with Tomatillos and Jalapenos
From Ann Burrell

Ingredients

6 tomatillos, husked

2 jalapenos

Extra-virgin olive oil

4 chicken thighs, trimmed ofexcess fat and skin

4 chicken legs

Kosher salt

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, smashed andfinely chopped

2 cups chicken stock

2 limes, zested and juiced

1/4 cup chopped freshcilantro, plus a few more leaves for garnish

Lime Sour Cream:

1/2 cup sour cream

2 limes, zested and juiced

Directions

Preheat the grill.

· Place thetomatillos and jalapenos on the grill and cook until the skins char andblister, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the tomatillos and jalapenos from the grilland let cool.

· Coat a large,wide straight-sided saute pan with olive oil and bring to medium-high heat.

· Sprinkle thechicken generously with salt. Add the chicken legs and thighs, skin-side down,to the hot pan. Brown the chicken well on all sides. Remove from the pan andreserve.

· Ditch the excessfat from the pan and add a few drops of new oil. Add the onions, season withsalt and cook until the onions are very soft and aromatic, 7 to 8 minutes.

· While the onionsare cooking, coarsely chop the tomatillos and reserve. Chop the jalapenos into1/4-inch dice and reserve with the tomatillos. If you want to tone down theheat, remove the seeds from the jalapenos before chopping.

· Add the garlic tothe pan with the onions and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.

· Add the reservedtomatillos and jalapenos. Stir to combine and add the chicken stock, lime juiceand zest. Taste and season with salt if needed (it probably will).

· Return thechicken to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for15 minutes.

· Remove the lidand let cook for 15 more minutes. This will allow the stock to reduce. Tastefor seasoning and adjust if needed.

For the sour cream:

· Combine the sourcream with the lime zest and juice and reserve.

· Remove thechicken from the pan and stir in the cilantro.

· Spoon the sauceover the chicken, sprinkle with cilantro leaves and serve with the lime sourcream.

When You Fall Off The Horse...

2011-10-26T02:46:00.001-06:00

Even though our original adoption plans didn't work out as we had hoped, we have decided to "get back in the saddle" and try again.

Many months ago, I deleted our adoption blog. I have spent half the night trying to build another one. Luckily for us, the blog address that we had used previously was available again!

I wanted to approach it differently this time. This new design is an extension of our profile on It's About Love.org. I won't be posting on it very often. I will mostly just be adding photos and information.

So, my friends, we are asking that you please help us spread the word that we are hoping to adopt. If you would like to link our adoption blog to yours, please feel free.

Our adoption blog address is: http://oureternalcircle.blogspot.com/

Thank you for all the support you have shown us.

Much Love,

If You Need Anything, Just Let Me Know...

2011-10-12T18:44:00.000-06:00

How many times in our lives have we said the words: "If you need anything, just let me know" to friends or family members that are going through a difficult time? I have said those words many times.

Yesterday, a friend in need called me and took me up on that offer that I had made to her just a few days ago. I have to say, I was so glad she did.

In our church, we are taught that if you are having troubles of your own, serve your fellow man. I know that may sound weird to some folks, but I tested that theory today and, it's true. I have been down about our failed adoption, and it is so easy to hide myself away and become a hermit, letting my heart be consumed by sadness over this. My friend calling me was the smack upside the head that I needed to remind me that other people are going through trials and have needs too.

In the midst of helping her today, it gave me a reprieve from my sorrows and gave me a resolve to look for opportunities to serve others.

So, if you ever need anything, just let me know....

Empty Arms and Broken Hearts

2011-09-25T00:52:00.000-06:00

As you all know, my husband and I were in the process of adopting a baby boy.

Unfortunately, our birth mother couldn't go through with the adoption and decided not to place her baby. The worst part is the way she did it. There was no discussion, no explanation. She more or less took the baby and ran. We haven't heard from her since.

Needless to say, we are angry and devastated.

It's Almost Time!

2011-09-05T23:30:00.001-06:00

In just about two weeks, my life is going to change forever. If all goes as we would like it to, I will have a new title.... Mother.

It is so close and yet still so far. I can see the finish line, I am exhausted, my nerves are shot, but we are still full of hope and anticipation. Until papers are signed, I will not be able to relax or even breathe.

I will be taking a break from posting for a while. We need to finish preparing both our house and our hearts for baby.

Do Re Me Fa So La Ti Do....

2011-08-07T21:20:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday I had an appointment with my Bishop. During that appointment, I asked for a calling, an opportunity to serve.

He looked at me and said he felt inspired to extend this particular calling, but it would shock me. Boy, was he right! I was called as our Ward Choir Director. All I could do was laugh. I mean REALLY laugh. I accepted, of course, but oh man.

The funny part.......I have NO training in music AT ALL, except for my 7th grade band class.

Even though I can't carry a beat in a bucket, I have faith that the Lord has a reason for wanting me to have this calling right now. I feel a sense of peace and excitement about this calling and I am looking forward to this new adventure.

Tammy's Bookshelf

2011-07-16T12:21:00.000-06:00

Books have always been part of my life. I cannot remember a time when I wasn't engrossed in a book. Going to the bookshelf (whether at home or the library) and choosing a new book or one that I may have read many times has always been a source of enjoyment.

Now, with a baby on the way {through adoption} it is more important than ever for me to have books around that our little one can treasure.

That being said, I decided to become an Independent Consultant of Usborne Books & More to share with others the joy that can be found in books.

Blank Canvas

2011-07-08T17:28:00.003-06:00

We are finally starting to get the baby's room ready. And by getting the room ready, I mean going through all the crap we have thrown in there that we don't want messing up the rooms in the house that people actually see.

I am wondering how much we should decorate. Do people still create nurseries?

I am asking all of the parents out there, what did you do? Did you go all out or did you feel like you were fine with the bare necessities?

I Want My Mommy!

2011-06-22T18:34:00.002-06:00

I called my mom last night. We talked about this and that. We talked about my impending adoption. The more we talked, the more emotional I became.

Our baby's due date is right around the corner. Our birth mom lives in a different state and due to all the legal hoops we need to jump through after the birth, we will need to be there for about 4-5 weeks. Due to hubby's work schedule, there is also a strong chance that I may have to be there for a few weeks by myself. with a new baby. by. my. self.

As I was telling my mom all of this, I realized how terrified I am. I also realized how much I need my mom during this time in my life.

I just wish she didn't live so far away.

If You Read My Blog... You'll Win a Trophy!!!

2011-06-01T18:23:00.002-06:00

Well, not really, but it brings me to my point.

As some of you know, my husband and I are finally going to be parents. We were matched with a birth mother and our baby will is due in a few months.

I made a comment today at work about how if our child wanted to play on a sports team that gave out "participation trophies", that I would not let him play for that team.

The reaction to that statement would make someone think that I killed a puppy, and the "discussion" became very intense. I won't go into the gory details, but I felt that no matter what I said, I was just not going to be understood.

I still stand by my opinion. I think that participation trophies are ridiculous. I guess I grew up during a time where trophies were earned, something that you worked hard to get and if your team lost, it made you want to work that much harder next time.

Have I changed my mind about letting our child participate on a team that has participation trophies? I guess we will cross that bridge when we come to it.

Miracles Happen When You Least Expect Them

2011-05-15T16:53:00.002-06:00

It came out of no where. It was unexpected and COMPLETELY shocked us.... and it came at a time where we had finally let go.

Our BIG news.......Mike and I were recently matched with a birth mother. We are going to be parents!

If this is a dream, please... don't wake us.

The Cutest Dog Ever!!!

2011-03-28T20:26:00.002-06:00

I found this picture and went into cute overload.

Enjoy.

In Memory

2011-03-19T10:28:00.003-06:00

Lenore Denna
1917 - 2011

On Thursday, March 17, 2011, my grandmother passed away. She was 93. This picture was taken in 1987, 10 years before her husband of 62 years passed. Although it breaks my heart that she is gone, I am comforted that she is reunited with her eternal companion, the love of her life, my grandfather.

I am standing by the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze
and starts for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength,
and I stand and watch
until at last she hangs like a speck of white cloud
just where the sun and sky come down to mingle with each other.

Then someone at my side says, 'There she goes!
Gone where? Gone from my sight - that is all.

She is just as large in mast and hull and spar
as she was when she left my side
and just as able to bear her load of living freight
to the places of destination.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her.

And just at the moment when someone at my side says,
'There she goes! ' ,
there are other eyes watching her coming,
and other voices ready to take up the glad shout :
'Here she comes!'

by Henry Van Dyke

Until we meet again.

Love,

It's Not the Car, It's ME!!!!!!

2011-03-08T22:07:00.003-07:00

I am not thrilled to admit that I have been in MANY car accidents since getting my license. I have to say, though, that MOST of them were not my fault.

Well.... I added to my streak. (I'm ok and no one else was hurt)

I decided to run to the store to get some things I needed for dinner. I parked my car next to one of those cart corralls and after turning off the engine, started playing on my phone. Out of nowhere, I am jerked violently in my car while hearing a loud sound.

I GOT IN AN ACCIDENT WHILE PARKED!!!! This is the second time since we bought our car that I have gotten hit and I wasn't even moving.

Apparently, this particular accident happened because this lady lost control of her truck and it hit the cart corrall, which then in turn hit our car.

I used to think that my car was the bulls eye, but no matter what car I drive, I attract accidents.

I have included some pictures for your viewing pleasure.

The Race is Over

2011-02-20T19:24:00.002-07:00

There comes a time when tough decisions need to be made. We made one tonight.

We have decided that we are not going to move forward adoption.

Thanks for all the love and support you have shown us through out this time.

Much love,

Heart Attack!

2011-02-11T20:23:00.003-07:00

Yesterday evening, as I was sitting peacefully in my home, my doorbell rang. I opened the door and couldn't help but grin from ear to ear.

I found this on my porch:

There were also paper hearts taped to our door and all over our front yard.

Thank you to those who took the time to think of us. It warmed our hearts and made our day.

It's On!

2011-02-09T19:34:00.002-07:00

This semester is not as fun as last semester. Part of the reason is my English teacher. I have had this assignment that has been a thorn in my side. I have turned it in 3 times and even enlisted the help of a friend who is an English professor and that version STILL wasn't good enough!!

After my last submission, he graced me with a "C" and said that I have the option of resubmission for a higher grade. A "C"?????? To say I was miffed is putting it mildly.

So, it's on!! Every class I have taken so far, has produced an A. I know I am not stupid. I have written essays and have gotten good grades...ON THE FIRST TRY!! I will get an A!! I guess this is the whole point and all... to make me a better writer and student. I could appreciate the whole "Stand and Deliver" thing if he weren't being such an ass about it.

Happy Groundhog's Day!!

2011-02-02T15:23:00.004-07:00

According to Punxsutawney Phil, Spring will be here before we know it. Actually, I am a little disappointed. Snow came to our neck of the woods, thanks to this freak winter storm and I am not ready to let it go!

No Offense But....

2011-01-29T23:55:00.002-07:00

Many people have caught whatever creeping crud that is going around. SO FAR {{knocking on wood}} I have not caught it. So, I would like to put out a special message to all my sick friends:

I am sorry you are sick. I am sending some virtual hugs your way. I love you and I hope you get well soon, but I will be avoiding you until you get better. So far, I have managed to go 4 months without getting sick and would like to beat my previous record of 7 months.

That is all.

Need a Change

2011-01-22T18:45:00.003-07:00

For the past year or so, we have had our adoption blog. I have been very schitzophrenic about posting, because for a while I had been in a really bad funk about my infertility and the whole adoption process. I am working my way out it.

As part of this process, I want to give our adoption blog a facelift.

I would like some suggestions as to the design. Colors, themes, etc.

(if you would like to look at the current design, clickety here.)

Thanks for your help!

Has it Been 20 Years Already????

2011-01-19T19:32:00.003-07:00

I recently reconnected with someone I went to high school with. I am so glad I did. It brought back a lot of memories. Then I remembered that my reunion is this year.

It just blows my mind that my 20 year reunion is in a few months. Really??? 20 years have gone by since I graduated high school???

Whoa.

Happy New Year!!!

2010-12-31T22:34:00.002-07:00

Well, the year is almost over. What a year it was.

I have learned a lot this year. Some lessons were learned in a classroom, others from the school of hard knocks. Either way, that is what life is about.

As I look to this up coming year, I will work on healing old wounds, being closer to my college degree, strengthening relationships, becoming healthier and hopefully getting my back yard done! :0)

I just want to let all my friends and family know how grateful I am for you and I hope this new year brings you happiness.

No, I'm Not Dead

2010-12-06T18:12:00.005-07:00

I am just in school and working full time. So I feel dead. Finals this week, then off for 3 weeks. Yippie!!! On 1/06/11 I get to jump on that crazy train all over again when the semester starts!! AND I am taking 4 classes this semester instead of 3.

Since my last post, not too much has happened. We did go back to CA to see my family. My dad gave us all a scare by getting a 105 degree fever. That's bad enough when you DON'T have cancer. He was hospitalized for almost 2 weeks, but he is home and feeling better.

For our belated anniversary trip Mike and I spent the night in Monterey, CA. It is beautiful. We visited the aquarium and ate at Fisherman's Wharf. The seafood was amazing!! I wish we could have stayed longer. I feel like the ocean is my second home.

We also were able to see my dear friends April and Wendy. I didn't get to see everything or everyone that I would have liked to. Time, phone issues and schedules not being compatible got in the way.

I miss everyone in CA already, but am so glad to be home.

Happy Halloween!!!

2010-10-17T22:23:00.002-06:00

After being in storage for many years, I finally have my Halloween figurines back. My mom painted all of them for me, way back in 1994. I am thrilled to have them again.

I Suck at Visiting Teaching

2010-10-09T22:23:00.004-06:00

I have totally sucked lately at performing my Visiting Teaching responsibilities. I won't try to make excuses. I just have not made it a priority. My schedule is even tighter now that I am going to school, but I am going to do better.

In Relief Society a few weeks ago, we were implored by a member of the Relief Society presidency to do our Visiting Teaching. Even though it took me another 2 weeks to get into gear, I finally made my appointments. What really got to me, (and even made me feel a bit ashamed for taking so long to make my calls) was one sister that I called just sounded not only surprised, but I could hear the gratitude in her voice that her Visiting Teachers had actually called. So, that being said.....

With this being October, I couldn't help but run to the store tonight and put together some treats for our sisters. Here they are:

I am excited to go.

Great News!

2010-09-21T21:51:00.001-06:00

I spoke to my mom tonight and found out that my dad is in remission!!!!

Since he has no immune system, he needs to stay in the hospital for another 10-14 days, then he can FINALLY go home.

Thank you for all your prayers.

Fill it to the Top!!

2010-09-19T20:20:00.004-06:00

Almost every time we go to the movies, we are suckered in to paying almost $4.00 for a tasty beverage. I have to. Cherry Coke has been a necessity at the movies since I was 16.

Anyhoo, when we are handed our soda, it is always at least an inch below the top. (I know that it may not seem like a big deal, but if I am paying $4.00 for my beverage, I want it filled to the top!) When this happens, I casually hand it back to them and bat my eyelashes and sweetly ask them to fill it to the top.

They are always OH SO HAPPY to do this for me, especially when there is a long line behind me.

The irony of this story... My husband and I share this soda and end up throwing about 1/3 of it away!

I Got An Uhhward!!!

2010-09-14T21:12:00.003-06:00

My new bloggy friend Victoria from Love Never Fails bestowed this upon me today. I was very happy to read this in my comments. You know, my blog was started back in 2007 just to document our house being built, so we could share the progress with friends and family. It is now my journal of all things exciting and mundane.

I never thought that I would meet so many great people through doing this.

I would like to pass on this award to the following people:

1. April - A Honu Experience

2. Sharon - Our Crazy, Wonderful Life

3. Lynn - Lynn's Kitchen

4. April - Auntie April

5. Busted Plumbing - When Mother Nature Kicks You Right in the Ovaries

6. Pedaling Fast and Trying to Keep Up

I know there are so many more who deserve this, I apologize for not getting your name on here. Please keep blogging.... I love keeping "in touch" with you!

I Was Totally Violated at Lowe's

2010-09-06T22:32:00.003-06:00

Earlier tonight we went to Lowe's to look at storm doors. It never fails, I always have to use the bathroom when we go out. (I go before we leave, but my bladder must like variety or something.)

So, when we arrived at Lowe's, I went to the back of the store to find the bathroom. I entered and since I was the only one in there, I literally checked every stall to find the cleanest one. (Since it is a public restroom, it was just choosing the lesser evil)

I enter my chosen stall and proceed to "do my business", when I hear someone come in. She does HER business and as she was leaving, I heard the door open and didn't hear it close right away. I look up through the little crack and see her staring at me!!!!!!

Our eyes locked for about 3 seconds and then she walked out. I was too shocked to say anything. (Luckily, my lady bits were covered)

The worst thing is..... SHE DIDN'T WASH HER HANDS!!!!!!!!!!

Today...

2010-08-28T23:39:00.002-06:00

Today I found out my dad has leukemia.

Today I realized that all the petty crap that I worry about means nothing.

Why does it take something like this, such a severe wake up call to put things in the perspective they need to be?

I just want my dad to get well.

I love you dad.

Purty Feet

2010-08-15T14:42:00.003-06:00

I just got a pedicure yesterday. It had only been about 2 months, but in that short time my feet went from being smooth and silky to cheese grater.

This dry, desert climate is not conducive to maintaining feminine feet!

(P.S. Don't pay attention to the hairy big toe... focus on the pretty flower....)

This Totally Made My Day Today

2010-08-04T22:50:00.003-06:00

Paula, my sister-in-law sent this email to us today. We visited their family over Memorial Day weekend. These are some of the things their kids (our niece and nephew) have been saying since our visit.

Howdy!

Today over breakfast, Caleb told me that the next time Mike and Tammy come, he wants to take them on the train. "And we'll hurry fast fast so we don't miss our train!"

Then Cerena said "Miss Mike and Tammy." (As in, I miss them, not as in Ms. Tammy.)

The other day we drove by Bass Pro Shop, and Caleb started saying "I want to go to the shark store!" (He was looking at the big mouth bass on their sign.) I said, "You want to go back to the shark store?" He said, "Yeah. Let's go to the shark store to see if Mike and Tammy are there."

I put pictures up on the bathroom door of the rewards that Caleb earned by doing well on his potty training chart. One of the pictures is of him pointing toward the coming train. Daniel is holding him and Mike is in the background. Every. single. time. one of the kids goes into the bathroom, they point out Mike.

You're loved and missed, and I just thought you'd like to know. :)

I cried when I read it. My heart is full.

Back to School!

2010-07-23T16:00:00.007-06:00

I am really looking forward for school to start! I will be taking 3 classes this semester. Two of which I can cross off the laundry list of classes for my degree.

The other class is to help fulfill my math requirement.

For my specific degree the ONLY required math class is...... MATH APPRECIATION. You apparently don't even do real math in this class?!?!?!???? (SWEET!!) Will they just show slides of numbers, equations and formulas, etc., and all we sit and do in the class and appreciate the fact that we don't have to actually do math?

So, as I was signing up for said classes, the computer would not let me sign up for the math class I needed, saying there was a pre-requisite class I needed to take first. So I went down to the school to try to sign up for my class and they looked at my records.... (now don't laugh), and according to their entrance exam I am so mathematically challenged, the school is requiring me to take a math class LOWER than MATH APPRECIATION first!! (I said don't laugh!)

I wonder what this class will be like? Who knows, maybe we will get snacks and nap time.

You're laughing... aren't you.

Trail of Tears

2010-07-09T23:43:00.002-06:00

Yep... that was me on Thursday (except I wasn't wearing heels, I was wearing my orthopedic sandals). I went to the movies to see Eclipse (solo, because the hubby had to work). After using the restroom (and yes... washing my hands. I do practice good hygiene!) I left the theater and heard this woman calling: "Ma'am!" (I guess I am too old to be "Miss" now, maybe it's the orthopedic sandals...) several times. I finally turned around and the woman pointed at my feet and upon glancing down.... there it was.... a 3 foot trail of toilet paper stuck to my left shoe.

Yeah... good times....

Memorial Day

2010-06-01T19:03:00.002-06:00

We had a whirlwind weekend. We drove to Southern CA to visit my BIL and his family. When I wrote to them to ask if we could come, I had two "conditions"... we had to eat at Chipotle, and we had to go the ocean. I am happy to report that both conditions were met. Thanks Daniel and Paula!

I took a TON of pics... I won't bore you with all of them, but here are a few.

The water was C-C-C-COLD!!!!

My favorite place to be...

This is my hubby, Mike (on the right).. his brother Daniel (on his back) and his son playing "trash truck". The guys were laughing so hard... it was too cute!

This is a beautiful building in Claremont, CA.

There were acres of these windmills around Palm Desert. I just had to get a pic! Not too shabby of a pic... it was taken from inside the car at 80mph!

These sculptures were at a gas station in Gila Bend, AZ in a dog poop rest area. I thought they were cool!

There were TONS of signs for this on I-10 on the freeway from AZ to NM. We were suckered in and stopped. Admission was $1.00 for each of us... was it worth the stop... UHHH No.

Anyway... it was an awesome weekend. The best part... just being with family.

My Bicycle!

2010-05-22T13:28:00.004-06:00

Bicycle, bicycle, bicycle
I want to ride my bicycle, bicycle, bicycle
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride my bike
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride my,
Bicycle races are coming your way
So forget all your duties, oh yeah!
Fat bottomed girls they'll be riding today
So look out for those beauties, oh yeah!
On your marks get set go

I would like to introduce you all to the newest member of our family! Her name is Chloe. We just brought her home today. Isn't she lovely?

Bread Maker

2010-05-01T18:31:00.003-06:00

I am contemplating the purchase of a bread machine.

I would like to know the following:

1. Do you have a bread machine
2. What brand is it
3. Do you like it
4. What do you like/dislike about it
5. Would you buy it again?

Thanks for your input!

National Infertility Awareness Week

2010-04-26T21:55:00.007-06:00

This week is National Infertility Awareness Week. Having struggled with infertility for over 18 years, this subject is very dear to my heart.

I have taken the following "Infertility Etiquette" text straight from the RESOLVE website. Sorry it's so lengthy, but it has some fantastic advice.

If you know of anyone in your life struggling with infertility, give her a call, let her know you are thinking of her. She will appreciate it.

Infertility Etiquette

Chances are, you know someone who is struggling with infertility. More than seven million people of childbearing age in the United States experience infertility. Yet, as a society, we are woefully uninformed about how to best provide emotional support for our loved ones during this painful time.

Infertility is, indeed, a very painful struggle. The pain is similar to the grief over losing a loved one, but it is unique because it is a recurring grief. When a loved one dies, he isn't coming back. There is no hope that he will come back from the dead. You must work through the stages of grief, accept that you will never see this person again, and move on with your life.

The grief of infertility is not so cut and dry. Infertile people grieve the loss of the baby that they may never know. They grieve the loss of that baby who would have had mommy's nose and daddy's eyes. But, each month, there is the hope that maybe that baby will be conceived after all. No matter how hard they try to prepare themselves for bad news, they still hope that this month will be different. Then, the bad news comes again, and the grief washes over the infertile couple anew. This process happens month after month, year after year. It is like having a deep cut that keeps getting opened right when it starts to heal.

As the couple moves into infertility treatments, the pain increases while the bank account depletes. The tests are invasive and embarrassing to both parties, and you feel like the doctor has taken over your bedroom. And for all of this discomfort, you pay a lot of money.

Reaching a resolution can take years, so your infertile loved ones need your emotional support during this journey. Most people don't know what to say, so they wind up saying the wrong thing, which only makes the journey so much harder for their loved ones. Knowing what not to say is half of the battle to providing support.

A couple will eventually solve their infertility problem in one of three ways:

They will eventually conceive a baby
They will stop the infertility treatments and decide to live without children
They will find an alternative way to parent such as adoption of becoming a foster parent

Don't Tell Them to Relax

Everyone knows someone who had trouble conceiving but then finally became pregnant once she "relaxed." Couples who are able to conceive after a few months of "relaxing" are not infertile. By definition, a couple is not diagnosed as "infertile" until they have tried unsuccessfully to become pregnant for a full year. In fact, most infertility specialists will not treat a couple for infertility until they have tried to become pregnant for a year. This year weeds out the people who aren't infertile but just need to "relax." Those that remain are truly infertile.

Comments such as "just relax" or "try going on a cruise" create even more stress for the infertile couple, particularly the woman. The woman feels like she is doing something wrong when, in fact, there is a good chance that there is a physical problem preventing her from becoming pregnant.

These comments can also reach the point of absurdity.Infertility is a diagnosable medical problem that must be treated by a doctor, and even with treatment, many couples will NEVER successfully conceive a child. Relaxation itself does not cure medical infertility.

Don't Minimize the Problem

Failure to conceive a baby is a very painful journey. Infertile couples are surrounded by families with children. These couples watch their friends give birth to two or three children, and they watch those children grow while the couple goes home to the silence of an empty house. These couples see all of the joy that a child brings into someone's life, and they feel the emptiness of not being able to experience the same joy.

Comments like, "Just enjoy being able to sleep late . . . .travel . . etc.," do not offer comfort. Instead, these comments make infertile people feel like you are minimizing their pain. You wouldn't tell somebody whose parent just died to be thankful that he no longer has to buy Father's Day or Mother's Day cards. Losing that one obligation doesn't even begin to compensate for the incredible loss of losing a parent. In the same vein, being able to sleep late or travel does not provide comfort to somebody who desperately wants a child.

Don't Say There Are Worse Things That Could Happen

Along the same lines, don't tell your friend that there are worse things that she could be going through. Who is the final authority on what is the "worst" thing that could happen to someone? Is it going through a divorce? Watching a loved one die? Getting raped? Losing a job?

Different people react to different life experiences in different ways. To someone who has trained his whole life for the Olympics, the "worst" thing might be experiencing an injury the week before the event. To someone who has walked away from her career to become a stay-at-home wife for 40 years, watching her husband leave her for a younger woman might be the "worst" thing. And, to a woman whose sole goal in life has been to love and nurture a child, infertility may indeed be the "worst" thing that could happen.

People wouldn't dream of telling someone whose parent just died, "It could be worse: both of your parents could be dead." Such a comment would be considered cruel rather than comforting. In the same vein, don't tell your friend that she could be going through worse things than infertility.

Don't Say They Aren't Meant to Be Parents

One of the cruelest things anyone ever said to me is, "Maybe God doesn't intend for you to be a mother." How incredibly insensitive to imply that I would be such a bad mother that God felt the need to divinely sterilize me. If God were in the business of divinely sterilizing women, don't you think he would prevent the pregnancies that end in abortions? Or wouldn't he sterilize the women who wind up neglecting and abusing their children? Even if you aren't religious, the "maybe it's not meant to be" comments are not comforting. Infertility is a medical condition, not a punishment from God or Mother Nature.

Don't Ask Why They Aren't Trying IVF

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a method in which the woman harvests multiple eggs, which are then combined with the man's sperm in a petri dish. This is the method that can produce multiple births. People frequently ask, "Why don't you just try IVF?" in the same casual tone they would use to ask, "Why don't you try shopping at another store?"

Don't Be Crude

It is appalling that I even have to include this paragraph, but some of you need to hear this-Don't make crude jokes about your friend's vulnerable position. Crude comments like "I'll donate the sperm" or "Make sure the doctor uses your sperm for the insemination" are not funny, and they only irritate your friends.

Don't Complain About Your Pregnancy

This message is for pregnant women-Just being around you is painful for your infertile friends. Seeing your belly grow is a constant reminder of what your infertile friend cannot have. Unless an infertile women plans to spend her life in a cave, she has to find a way to interact with pregnant women. However, there are things you can do as her friend to make it easier.

The number one rule is DON'T COMPLAIN ABOUT YOUR PREGNANCY. I understand from my friends that, when you are pregnant, your hormones are going crazy and you experience a lot of discomfort, such as queasiness, stretch marks, and fatigue. You have every right to vent about the discomforts to any one else in your life, but don't put your infertile friend in the position of comforting you.

Your infertile friend would give anything to experience the discomforts you are enduring because those discomforts come from a baby growing inside of you. When I heard a pregnant woman complain about morning sickness, I would think, "I'd gladly throw up for nine straight months if it meant I could have a baby." When a pregnant woman would complain about her weight gain, I would think, "I would cut off my arm if I could be in your shoes."

I managed to go to baby showers and hospitals to welcome my friends' new babies, but it was hard. Without exception, it was hard. Stay sensitive to your infertile friend's emotions, and give her the leeway that she needs to be happy for you while she cries for herself. If she can't bring herself to hold your new baby, give her time. She isn't rejecting you or your new baby; she is just trying to work her way through her pain to show sincere joy for you. The fact that she is willing to endure such pain in order to celebrate your new baby with you speaks volumes about how much your friendship means to her.

Don't Treat Them Like They Are Ignorant

For some reason, some people seem to think that infertility causes a person to become unrealistic about the responsibilities of parenthood. I don't follow the logic, but several people told me that I wouldn't ache for a baby so much if I appreciated how much responsibility was involved in parenting.

Let's face it-no one can fully appreciate the responsibilities involved in parenting until they are, themselves, parents. That is true whether you successfully conceived after one month or after 10 years. The length of time you spend waiting for that baby does not factor in to your appreciation of responsibility. If anything, people who have been trying to become pregnant longer have had more time to think about those responsibilities. They have also probably been around lots of babies as their friends started their families.

Perhaps part of what fuels this perception is that infertile couples have a longer time to "dream" about what being a parent will be like. Like every other couple, we have our fantasies-my child will sleep through the night, would never have a tantrum in public, and will always eat his vegetables. Let us have our fantasies. Those fantasies are some of the few parent-to-be perks that we have-let us have them. You can give us your knowing looks when we discover the truth later.

Don't Gossip About Your Friend's Condition

Infertility treatments are very private and embarrassing, which is why many couples choose to undergo these treatments in secret. Men especially are very sensitive to letting people know about infertility testing, such as sperm counts. Gossiping about infertility is not usually done in a malicious manner. The gossipers are usually well-meaning people who are only trying to find out more about infertility so they can help their loved ones.

Regardless of why you are sharing this information with someone else, it hurts and embarrasses your friend to find out that Madge the bank teller knows what your husband's sperm count is and when your next period is expected. Infertility is something that should be kept as private as your friend wants to keep it. Respect your friend's privacy, and don't share any information that your friend hasn't authorized.

Don't Push Adoption (Yet)

Adoption is a wonderful way for infertile people to become parents. (As an adoptive parent, I can fully vouch for this!!) However, the couple needs to work through many issues before they will be ready to make an adoption decision. Before they can make the decision to love a "stranger's baby," they must first grieve the loss of that baby with Daddy's eyes and Mommy's nose. Adoption social workers recognize the importance of the grieving process. When my husband and I went for our initial adoption interview, we expected the first question to be, "Why do you want to adopt a baby?" Instead, the question was, "Have you grieved the loss of your biological child yet?" Our social worker emphasized how important it is to shut one door before you open another.

You do, indeed, need to grieve this loss before you are ready to start the adoption process. The adoption process is very long and expensive, and it is not an easy road. So, the couple needs to be very sure that they can let go of the hope of a biological child and that they can love an adopted baby. This takes time, and some couples are never able to reach this point. If your friend cannot love a baby that isn't her "own," then adoption isn't the right decision for her, and it is certainly not what is best for the baby.

Mentioning adoption in passing can be a comfort to some couples. (The only words that ever offered me comfort were from my sister, who said, "Whether through pregnancy or adoption, you will be a mother one day.") However, "pushing" the issue can frustrate your friend. So, mention the idea in passing if it seems appropriate, and then drop it. When your friend is ready to talk about adoption, she will raise the issue herself.

So, what can you say to your infertile friends? Unless you say "I am giving you this baby," there is nothing you can say that will erase their pain. So, take that pressure off of yourself. It isn't your job to erase their pain, but there is a lot you can do to lesson the load. Here are a few ideas.

Let Them Know That You Care

The best thing you can do is let your infertile friends know that you care. Send them cards. Let them cry on your shoulder. If they are religious, let them know you are praying for them. Offer the same support you would offer a friend who has lost a loved one. Just knowing they can count on you to be there for them lightens the load and lets them know that they aren't going through this alone.

Remember Them on Mother's Day

With all of the activity on Mother's Day, people tend to forget about women who cannot become mothers. Mother's Day is an incredibly painful time for infertile women. You cannot get away from it-There are ads on the TV, posters at the stores, church sermons devoted to celebrating motherhood, and all of the plans for celebrating with your own mother and mother-in-law.

Mother's Day is an important celebration and one that I relish now that I am a mother. However, it was very painful while I was waiting for my baby. Remember your infertile friends on Mother's Day, and send them a card to let them know you are thinking of them. They will appreciate knowing that you haven't "forgotten" them.

Support Their Decision to Stop Treatments

No couple can endure infertility treatments forever. At some point, they will stop. This is an agonizing decision to make, and it involves even more grief. Even if the couple chooses to adopt a baby, they must still first grieve the loss of that baby who would have had mommy's nose and daddy's eyes.

Once the couple has made the decision to stop treatments, support their decision. Don't encourage them to try again, and don't discourage them from adopting, if that is their choice. Once the couple has reached resolution (whether to live without children, adopt a child, or become foster parents), they can finally put that chapter of their lives behind them. Don't try to open that chapter again.

Much Love,

Hey You!!!

2010-04-23T16:02:00.002-06:00

Yeah you... the one reading this post. I am so glad you stopped by my blog!!! Is it your first time or do you come by regularly? Well, regardless of how often you come by, don't be shy... leave me a comment. I love making new friends!

Much love...

Spiritually Fed

2010-04-18T12:40:00.008-06:00

We went to Stake Conference today and between the music and talks, I was truly spiritually fed. There was one talk that stood out among all the others. The talk was about doing all we can and asking the Lord for help in areas that we need to either improve or to stop doing, in order to draw closer to Him. The speaker also touched on "trusting our instruments", our testimony and the Holy Spirit, to help guide our lives.

The topic may seem very general to some, but for me the words pierced my heart and I felt that the words were said just for me.

I want to be close to my Savior. I want to live my life in a manner that will not make me ashamed when I see Him again. Just like everyone else, I have my struggles and trials. Some days are just tough, like "I don't even want to get out of bed to face the day" tough. I have felt myself pulling away from church for many months, because of the trials in my life. Today, helped me realize that in order to feel peace from the trials, I need to steer my life and purpose toward the Lord, not away from Him.

I am glad that my hubby gently urged me to go to church today. I would not have heard this wonderful message, had I stayed home.

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder... but it sucks while you are gone!!!

2010-04-14T20:15:00.003-06:00

I started a new job in January. I like it. Part of the job is traveling. I will be traveling next week, being gone for 4 days. I am actually looking forward to going. After all, it IS an all expense paid trip.

Be that as it may, there is one part that I am not looking forward to..... being away from my hubby.

We have been married for almost 5 years and we (by choice) have not spent that much time away from each other. I think I can actually count on 1 hand the amount of days we have spent apart.

So, as you can probably guess, I am getting more anxious as my departure date gets closer.

We have gotten a lot of flack over this, but I don't care. I love my husband and relish our time together.

So... the morning I leave, yes... there will be tears... but it will be so much sweeter when I come home!

Simon's Cat

2010-04-09T11:41:00.011-06:00

My coworker sent me this video and I was in tears laughing as I watched it. Having cats, it hit too close to home!

Happy Weekend!

I Want it NOW!

2010-04-05T22:49:00.002-06:00

Soooo I got on the eliptical today. I also did some push-ups and crunches. After I got done, I was good and sweaty.

Being the immediate gratification person that I am, I looked in the mirror and was a bit put out when I saw that I was not at my goal weight.

I guess this means I have to do more of this exercise stuff.

Happy Easter

2010-04-02T21:13:00.004-06:00

May we all remember.....

Much love,

I WISH it were only a Dry Spell....

2010-03-31T21:40:00.003-06:00

As you may have noticed, I have not been posting much lately. I don't know what is happening. I thought is was just writers block, then it turned into a dry spell, now my mind is a full on barren wasteland. I don't know what is going on. Maybe it's my job. I am glad I have it, but I am just tired ALL. THE. TIME. because of it.

All I could muster were some random thoughts...

1. We just got an upright freezer. I will now be trying to do some "make ahead meals" and freeze them. We have the room now!

2. We are not going to be with family for Easter. :o( With our work schedule, it just isn't possible this year.

3. We have an exciting vacation planned for September. I WILL be posting more on that at a later time. (Here is a hint... "TCB")

4. I am loving the weather right now!!

5. I want to drop kick "mother nature", "aunt flo" or whoever she is. I usually take these "visits" in stride, but this week I want to have a cage match with her!

6. Our town is finally getting an Olive Garden! We are UPTOWN now!! If we could only get a Chipotle here, my life would be complete!

Changin' My Bloggy Clothes!!

2010-03-23T20:51:00.003-06:00

I am changing the look of my blog (hopefully) for the last time. As much as I liked the purple, scrapbooky design, it didn't scream"Tammy".

So..... stay tuned. My blog will have a fresh new look. I would have a giveaway to honor this "clothing" change, but the last giveaway I had, it took me 6 months to mail out the stuff!!!

Tammy

FINALLY, Some Relief!!

2010-03-07T23:24:00.002-07:00

As many of you know, by past posts, I have REALLY bad allergies. (I am allergic to the 2 most common plants in my state, which, ironically grow EVERYWHERE!!!!)

About every 3 -4 months, I get sick and it turns into bronchitis. I have literally lived the past 2 years of my life on antibiotics and the last 10 years with a dry, hacking, awful sounding, face reddening, gag inducing, dog bark of a cough!

I am happy to report that for the past 3 months, I have been in health heaven. I have my wonderful allergist to thank for it. I am finally in the groove with the allergy meds I need to take to tame the beasties, so my immune system has a chance to actually do its job.

I now take:

Zyrtec (an over-the-counter allergy pill), 2 prescription nasal sprays, allergy eye drops and I get immunotherapy shots 2x per week.

Yes, it's a lot, but SO worth it not to be sick.

Road Trip

2010-02-15T00:42:00.008-07:00

My hubby and I were able to take a last minute trip for Valentine's Day/My Birthday. We went with some friends to Ruidoso, NM, which is in the mountains.

It still had snow on the ground and was really pretty.

The cool thing was, we were able to stay at their house so we didn't have to rent a hotel.

We did some shopping......

and saw the sights.

We played games and read and relaxed. It was a great weekend. The nice thing is, the drive was less than 2 hrs.

Our friends left before us and we told them we would clean and close up the house. We got home on Sunday afternoon and were unpacking. I was looking for the bag of dirty clothes, so I could put them to wash. After asking my hubby where it was, we realized we had accidentally thrown the bag away!! We called our friend (who owns the house), explained what happened and between hysterical peals of laughter, I was able to ask her if she could find someone up there that could check the garbage for us. Thankfully, our clothes were there and we should get them back soon.

On a side note, notice the lovely pictures we took? Yeah.... we forgot our camera!

Spamalot!

2010-01-28T18:28:00.004-07:00

Well, I hate to have to do this, but I have to now put the word verification on my blog for commenters. I am now getting SPAM comments!!!! Just one more thing to make my eye twitch!

Projects

2010-01-18T12:43:00.008-07:00

Happy New Year!!

I hope all had a wonderful Christmas as well. My parents came out to visit. It was great seeing them.

My dad has some serious skills in the construction/handyman/jack of all trades areas, and this year for Christmas, our gift was some much needed fencing. I know it doesn't sound all that exciting... but for us, it was.

In New Mexico, rock walls are the norm for fencing. Our yard is no different. Our back yard butts up against a street, so people walk by all the time. Our back wall is only 4ft high and people can look right into our yard (and house) when they walk past, (and trust me, they do look).

My dad was gracious enough to foot the bill for some wood fencing to finally give us privacy. We got the fence up over a 3 day period.

The first day was shopping for the wood, cutting the fence boards down to size and "dog earring" each board for aesthetic purposes.

The second day was building and installing the framing in each section.

The third day was putting the boards up.

I am so pleased with the results. Lemme just say.... no more tan lines for us!!!

P.S.

I am also including pictures of pajama bottoms I made for my hubby and father-in-law.

Oh Christmas Tree... Oh Christmas Tree, Can we Assemble Your Branches...

2009-12-16T02:24:00.004-07:00

We FINALLY got our Christmas tree up!! We started putting it up on Sunday, and finished up today. (I kinda had to, my Visiting Teachers were coming over!)

The top picture shows our two "helpers" as we were putting the branches on. The weights on the left are to go on the stand (as a counterbalance), because we only put half of the lower branches on, so it wouldn't stick out so far and block the walkway. Anyhoo...

You can't really tell, but I like to put the lights on layer by layer because it's so much easier. I also like to put LOTS of lights on the tree. My hubby had to take over putting the lights on the top, because my arms were just too short, even with the step stool.

The last picture is the finished product. The picture doesn't do it justice. We are really happy with the way it turned out.

Now we just have to wrap presents to put under it!

MERRY CHRISTMAS Everyone!!!!!

Let It Snow...

2009-12-16T02:01:00.003-07:00

I am a little behind on posting. Sorry...

On December 4, we looked out our window and saw that it was snowing!!! We were so excited!! These pictures of us are in our back yard. Mike had met some friends earlier that evening to watch a football game and when he got home, the car was covered in snow and we ended up having a snowball fight in our garage! As we were throwing snow at each other, he said "I don't know how you are able to talk me into things like this!" (he said this as he was laughing and reloading) It was awesome.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2009-11-24T15:50:00.002-07:00

I want to wish all my RLF and Bloggy Friends a Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Some things I am thankful for:

1. My Lord & Savior Jesus Christ
2. My wonderful husband
3. My awesome family
4. Being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
5. My cats
6. My home
7. That I can afford to be a stay at home wife
8. That we are debt free
9. My Country
10. That families can be together forever

There is so much more. Amid the daily struggles and trials of life, at the end of the day, I know that I am truly blessed. I say this not to brag, but to acknowledge God's hand in all things.

What are you thankful for?

Sunday Scribbles

2009-11-15T15:35:00.003-07:00

I have been in a total state of writers block lately, so here are some thoughts that I couldn't quite make into a full post...

1. I have not really gone anywhere for the last 3 days and have a really bad case of Cabin Fever.

2. My writer's block has been so bad, that I have not even been even able to think of comments to make on others blogs! I have been a total one sided blog stalker for quite some time.

3. My house really needs to be dusted.

4. I did not realize how much I would enjoy being a housewife! So much so, that I decided not to move forward with the medical practice. I decided to go to school instead. Who 'da thunk it???

5. I think I finally found a really good smelling, reasonably priced shampoo! I just bought 2 big bottles of the Wal-Mart brand of Pantene Icy Shine. Oh yeah!

6. I love the smell of coffee. I was in Sam's Club and someone was grinding their coffee beans, I was in heaven!

7. I rented the movie, The Soloist. I turned it off in the middle. It was boring.

8. I am really enjoying this cold weather. It is 59 degrees and breezy outside and I have my house opened up. I wish it snowed here in the winter!

9. I am really looking forward to seeing my my hubby's family for Thanksgiving. I haven't seen them since Labor Day weekend and I really miss them.

10. It is almost 4pm here and I am still in my pajamas. I will probably only change out of them when I take a shower and then put a clean set on. I love lazy Sundays.

Free at Last, Free at Last!!!!

2009-10-26T12:57:00.005-06:00

Friday was my last day at work. My husband sent me flowers... (thanks, baby!) but there was not a card, cake, or even an offer to take me to lunch by my boss or fellow office people. Although I was disappointed at the indifference of my departure, I was not, in the least surprised. I guess I just thought that after being there almost 3 years, sometimes working 12 hour days (when everyone else had quit) so the office could still function, would mean something.

Oh well.

Now the good stuff... the reason I quit my job!!!

My good friend Mark is opening up a medical practice and not only will I be running the office, I will be part owner of the practice!!!!

I decided to take some much needed time off before the practice opens in January. It won't be all relaxation and sleeping in though... there are museums and matinee's and day trips and other fun stuff that needs to be taken care of!!!

Soooo Funny!!!

2009-10-13T00:14:00.006-06:00

My friend Sarah posted this video on Facebook My hubby and I watched it twice and laughed till we cried both times. Since I don't know how to upload it directly to this post, I have put the link below.

Enjoy!

You Can't Fix Stupid Video

Pumpkin Festival

2009-10-11T17:52:00.005-06:00

This past week my hubby has been working nights and so we hardly have seen each other. So, when Saturday came, we completely unplugged and just spent the day with each other and were totally selfish with our time. We didn't get out of bed until 1pm, made biscuits & gravy for "breakfast" and then went to the Pumpkin Festival/Maize Maze. We had so much fun. We went on a hayride, picked a pumpkin and went through the corn maze.

We stayed up till 3am and then slept in on Sunday. I didn't have to give a lesson at church, so we just relaxed all day.

This week, my hubby has to work nights again and even has to work Saturday, so we took full advantage of this weekend (get your minds out of the gutter, this is a family blog!). I just mean that we, oh nevermind!

Here are some pictures of our trip :

October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month

2009-10-06T15:52:00.003-06:00

Over the course of almost 17 years, and 2 marriages, I have unsuccessfully tried to have children. I have had 7 (known) miscarriages and 1 ectopic pregnancy, from 1992 - 2008. I STILL cry over each and every child I have lost. I have learned to cope, but it is a very real pain that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

During those dark times, I have had to suffer in silence. This is mostly due to people not knowing what to say when something like this happens.

I will acknowledge that it can be awkward, trying to find something to say. People tend to NOT know how to respond with a miscarriage, especially in the 1st trimester, because typically, the mother isn't showing and there is usually no body to have a funeral for.

I have had some pretty callous things said to me during the times when I have miscarried:

1. Don't worry, you're still young, you have plenty of time to have babies.
2. Well, at least you didn't get attached to it.
3. Count your blessings, it was probably deformed.
4. It wasn't a real baby yet, why are you so upset?
5. You've already mourned over hearing the news (from the doctor that my baby had died), all you have to do is just pass the cells now right? So you shouldn't be so upset now.

And the list goes on and on.

So, my friends, if you know someone going through the terrible, heartbreaking ordeal of a miscarriage here are some suggestions to help:

1. Offer to run errands, watch her children, cook dinner, clean her house... these are the last things on her mind

2. Cry with her, hold her hand or just listen if she feels like talking

3. Say APPROPRIATE things to her; "I am SO sorry for your loss", "What can I do to help", "I am here for you"

4. Send flowers or a Thinking of You / Sympathy card.

These are just a few things that can mean so much. The point is to validate her feelings of loss and give her time to mourn.

Something else you can do:

Organizations across the globe ask that you take part in the "Wave of Light" by lighting a candle on October 15th at 7pm, in your local time zone. Please take a moment on this day for reflection, and remembering our lost children by lighting a candle at home, in groups and gatherings, or calling someone close to you who has experienced this loss. No matter how recent or how long ago, every parent would love to know that someone is remembering their angel child.

Much love and Peace,

Do Do Do Do, I Have Poo!

2009-09-30T09:34:00.002-06:00

Birdie, Birdie in the sky
Dropped a dew drop in my eye
I won't laugh and I won't cry
I'm just glad that cows don't fly!

Last night the hubbs and I attended our Elder's Quorum BBQ. It was fun. The hamburgers were great!

There isn't much seating at the park we went to and so I was glad to find a relatively open picnic table. We sat down and I was playing with Shanna, our friends daughter. I then felt something hit my shoulder, but didn't think anything of it, because the trees we were sitting under had acorns on them.

I turned to say something to my hubby and felt something wet on my neck. I started freaking out (silently of course) saying: "Get it off!!! Get it off!!" I could tell he wanted to laugh. I asked him what had been on me and he was hesitant to tell me. Just before he told me, I heard the flutter of wings from the culprit taking flight and moving elsewhere to wreak havoc on some other poor soul.

Yes, folks, I had been shat upon.

I guess this proves that some days you step in it, some days you step around it, and some days it lurks high above waiting until that perfect moment to strike!

I AM Human, After All...

2009-09-25T00:31:00.002-06:00

I was humbled today. Not in a bad way, but it happened. You see, I have been sick for the past week. Yes, I know, it seems like I am always sick. Because of being sick, I have not been keeping up on my housecleaning. (yes, we disinfected on Sunday, due to kitty poo, but the house is still a bit of a mess).

Well, today my wonderful friend Lisa offered to bring dinner over to us, and I took her up on it. I warned her about the state of my home. She came in and laughed because of my "messy" house and said "See?? You are human!" It took a lot of trust for me and swallowing my pride to let her into my house, while not being almost perfect.

I am glad to say I have learned a few things:

1. My house doesn't have to be perfect all the time

2. Real friends understand that life happens and sometimes your house gets messy, and yet they look past it and love you anyway

3. They also ignore a little "toot" that escaped even though I tried my best to hold it until she left! (hey, I'm sick!)

Love ya Lisa!!

WARNING: Gross Post

2009-09-20T17:21:00.002-06:00

Today was a typical Sunday, like any other. We got up, got dressed, ate breakfast, got to church late.

We arrived home from church. Then the fun began....

Our house smelled like poop. Cat poop to be exact. No, no, no, no, no!!!

You see, anyone who knows me, knows that I am rather OCD about my house and the smell therein. I like my house to smell clean and fresh. We clean our home, keep the laundry tamed, clean the litter box regularly, etc., so there won't be odiferous offenders lurking in every corner.

When people come over, I do not want them to know that we have cats from walking into a wall of stench from a nasty litter box. This is an ongoing worry of mine.

So, you can probably imagine my horror to the lovely poop scent.

I knew who the offender was. It was my long haired cat, His Majesty. Sometimes he has issues with his poop. It gets stuck in his fur around his little bunghole. This time though, it was bad. So we donned the appropriate HazMat gear and proceeded to clean his little rear end of said poop. He protested at first, but then just sat there and let us finish, (He really had no choice, due to the deathgrip Mike had on him) and by finish, I mean, shaving his little butt. He also got a good washing in his nether regions and now smells like orchids. He is currently under our bed, madder than a wet hen, or.. err.. cat.

The fun doesn't stop there folks! We then had to go ALL OVER our house and disinfect it from top to bottom, because we didn't know where he may have sat and "spread the love", if you know what I mean!

During the disinfecting of EVERYTHING in our house, I turned to Mike and I said, "Well, I guess this will help prepare us for a baby" and his reply: "Yeah, but we won't have to shave our baby's butt!"

Ahhh the joys of having pets.

Wife Swap

2009-09-17T12:18:00.006-06:00

Whilst (how often do people actually use this word?) taking a sick day at home from praying to the porcelain god all night, I decided to watch a little television. I came across this show. I must say, I. AM. ADDICTED. If you have never seen this show, the concept is the producers choose 2 families that could not be further apart in lifestyles and the wives live in the other families house for 2 weeks.

For instance, they had a family that was all about etiquette and a family that had no rules or manners. At the end of the 2 weeks, the etiquette family let down their guard and relaxed a little and the family with no manners learned some and life was more harmonious.

It is amazing the resistance these families have to trying a new way of living, especially since they only have to do it for 1 week.

The nice thing is, that each family actually learns something and feels that it was a good experience.

It teaches a good lesson to all of us that it is not good to be too extreme in one way or another, to be flexible with life and to be open minded to others.

Nothin to Say

2009-09-15T09:22:00.002-06:00

I am having one of those days where so much is happening around me, but I don't have anything to post about. I guess the real question is: Is that sad, or am I really just boring?

WE ARE APPROVED!!!!

2009-09-07T20:16:00.001-06:00

We are excited to announce that as of 11:00am on Wednesday, September 2, 2009....

We were officially approved for adoption!!! Our profile is active at www.itsaboutlove.org

What Really Grinds My Gears

2009-08-30T13:17:00.006-06:00

It is no secret that I am a "woman of size". I can't hide it. I have learned to accept it, for now.

I get plus size clothing catalogs in the mail, and what REALLY "Grinds my Gears" is that they use these twiggy women to model the clothing!!!

This makes ordering tough, because clothing looks and hangs differently on a woman that is a size 2 (or even smaller) vs. a size 20 or even a size 12 woman.

Do they really think it would turn people away to see plus size women model plus size clothes in a catalog that is specifically geared toward a plus sized audience?

Winner, Winner Chicken Dinner!

2009-08-20T10:09:00.004-06:00

After using the highly technical method of putting your names on pieces of paper and then drawing from a bowl, we have a winner from my 100th post giveaway!

April M. from Auntie April!

YAY!!! Email me with your address and I will send it out this weekend.

CONGRATS!!!!

Random Thoughts

2009-08-18T17:11:00.002-06:00

I have decided to start a new feature on my blog... Random Thoughts. It is just something for me to be able to get out the things in my head so I can go about my day.

There is a great need for a Sarcasm font

My 100th Post! A New Look, A New Name and… A GIVEAWAY!!

2009-08-13T17:47:00.005-06:00

I have been wondering what to post for this momentous occasion. I started my blog in 2007 to document our house being built, because our families are spread out across the U.S.

My friend April in CA encouraged me to start blogging and I had NO idea what I would write about and here I am writing about EVERYTHING.

I originally decided to name my blog Ponderosa Jr., because it was all about my house. My hubby’s parents live in Northern New Mexico and my father-in-law, refers to their place as “The Ponderosa”. Having lived up there for a while after Mike and I got married, I fell in love with the place and so when we moved to Las Cruces, I nicknamed our house the Ponderosa Jr. Since my blog is no longer about our house, I decided to rename it. The link is still the same, so in your blog list, be sure to change the name. I will officially change it in 1 week in my settings.

So, to shamelessly plug my blog and to say thank you to all my readers and followers, I am giving away…..

1. Burt’s Bees Travel Kit

2. Mini Gel Pens

3. Monopoly Deal card game (we just bought it, it is soooo fun!!)

4. Magnetic Note Pads

5. Mini Bowling Game

6. Fiji Apple Body Butter

7. Whoopie Cushion

8. Flart - “Noise Putty” use your imagination

9. Parents easy scrapbook

10. Hair Wrap Towel

To enter you can do one (or all) of the following, each will give you an entry:

1. Leave a comment (letting me know you did one or all of the following)

2. Post about this giveaway on your blog

3. Follow my blog (if you are already a follower, you will get credit for that, just !)

4. This is more of a request, grab my adoption button and put it on your blog. You can get it at oureternalcircle.blogspot.com

Home Study Today!!!!

2009-07-23T13:44:00.004-06:00

Well folks, today is the day of our home study. I am excited and nervous. (actually I am wound tighter than an 8 day clock!)

After today... I can take a breath.

And then... we wait and wait and wait. Well, that is not all we will be doing. We are going to be very proactive in getting the word out about our hope to adopt, even more than we already have. To help with that, I have ordered some pass along cards from Spaces for Faces and hired Erin from DesignerBlogs.com, to design our adoption blog.

Our adoption blog's address is oureternalcircle.blogspot.com if you want to check it out, it isn't finished yet, there is still some things we need to put on there. PLEASE grab my button for your blog (once it is on there) to help us spread the word about our adoption.

Thanks for all your support my RL and Bloggy friends!! You're awesome!

P.S. I need to give a special shout out to Ashley, Sariah, Kendra, Shaela, and Amber for the card and flowers. You really made my day!!! I love you!!!

Are We Really THIS Lazy, People???

2009-07-16T12:46:00.004-06:00

My hubby and I went to the grocery store last night and upon returning to our car, there were several carts in various places in the parking lot. This by itself is not uncommon.

The part that really gets to me is that we parked 1 space over from the "cart corral" and there were carts in the parking lot 2 feet from it!

I am just floored that people are parked right next to that thing and still don't put them away.

Seriously, are we really that lazy?

Happy Anniversary to Me!

2009-07-11T21:46:00.005-06:00

My hubby and I celebrated our 4^th year of wedded bliss last week.

To celebrate, we went to Albuquerque and spent the day at the Aquarium and Botanical Gardens. I have been wanting to go to the Aquarium ever since I found out that New Mexico has one. It did not disappoint. It had freshwater fish, Gulf of Mexico fish and saltwater/ocean displays. The best part? It had SHARKS!! I love sharks. I am absolutely terrified of them, but they are so beautiful.

After spending time there, we sauntered, yes sauntered over to the Botanical Gardens. That place was breathtaking! We began our tour in an area for kids. It looked like a castle from the outside, complete with a dragon. We went inside and it was sort of like a maze. It oversized everything there, bugs, veggies, a HUGE watering can. It was awesome. It also had a butterfly house (sorry, no pictures) and a train set that would make most enthusiasts drool.

All in all, it was the best anniversary ever.

Happy 4th of July!

2009-06-30T11:55:00.006-06:00

I thought I would put our National Anthem and the chorus to God Bless the USA on this post. These two songs really make me emotional. I love this country. It's not perfect, but it's home.

Please remember that this is the Land of the Free because of the Brave.

Have safe and happy 4th of July.

The Star Spangled Banner

Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

Chorus to God Bless the USA

And I’m proud to be an American,
where at least I know I’m free.
And I wont forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.

And I gladly stand up,
next to you and defend her still today.
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land,
God bless the USA.

Tell Me

2009-06-15T16:53:00.002-06:00

Just wonderin'.....

Regardless of your political affiliation...

How do you think Obama is doing?

Home Study Scheduled!

2009-06-09T09:32:00.002-06:00

We are having our home study for our adoption on June 19th!!!!! (squeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!)

After that, we just wait for a very special phone call!!!!

Wooooooooo Hoooooooooooooo!!!!

6/11/09 UPDATE: We had to move our home study to the middle of July due to my hubby's work schedule. BUT WE ARE STILL EXCITED!!!!!

Last Night, I Didn't Get to Sleep at All

2009-06-03T09:15:00.004-06:00

Well, we did it. We finally have ALL of our adoption paperwork in. {{whew!!}}

We are now waiting for our background checks (I think I covered up most of my past pretty well!) and as soon as those come back, our home study will be scheduled. From there... we wait...and wait... and wait to be chosen. But, if things go as quickly for us as they did for 2 other couples in our ward, we will have a baby within a year.

AAAACK!!!!! I am kind of freaking out. So much so, that I have not been sleeping well. At. All. I am exhausted during the day, and then when I should be tired at night, I can't sleep!

I have been trying to have kids for almost 18 years of my life. What am I going to do once I have one? I feel like Capt. Ahab going after my whale. This race will be won, this mountain will be conquered, this fight will be over soon. I have been at it so long I can't see past this.

What happens next?

Riddle Me This

2009-05-26T09:53:00.002-06:00

I often contemplate my role as a wife and the relationship I have with my husband.

I have been also thinking of late about becoming a mother. When I think of this, I am excited, thrilled, nervous and scared as H. E. double hockysticks. I kinda know what to expect, you know, about the basics, the rudementary tasks of motherhood, such as changing diapers, feeding, bathing, etc. What I am unprepared for is the emotional part... but not just about how I will feel toward our child. What I think about is how becoming parents will change our marriage.

I had often worried that it would put some distance between us, that we wouldn't be as close as we are now.

This past weekend, we were able to spend some time with my hubby's family. His sister has 2 children. One of which is my buddy. From the time we got there we were attached at the hip and I was her personal entertainment unit, hug giver, jungle gym, book reader, song singer, knee bouncer, you get the picture. It is like this everytime we see them, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

During this whole time, my hubby was right there, playing, tickling, being a part of it all. On the way home I shared my concerns and we had a really great discussion about it. I know that 2 days does not predict a lifetime, but being the worrier that I am, it really put my mind at ease.

So, for all of you mom's out there, how did having a child (or children) change your relationship with your husband?

Memorial Day

2009-05-22T09:24:00.004-06:00

The story of America's quest for freedom is inscribed on her history in the blood of her patriots. ~Randy Vader

My 11th grade history teacher would give a presentation every year as we were learning about WWII. He would put on a Naval uniform and role play as if he were a character aboard the U.S.S. Arizona on December 7th, 1941 when Pearl Harbor was bombed. It was a turning point in my life. I had really never given much thought to the men and women in the military until this class. I cried during the whole presentation. After he was done, he urged all of us to visit any war memorial or veterans and thank them for their sacrifice and service to this country.

I did just that. I went to the Vietnam Memorial in Sacramento. (the only war memorial at the time) and as soon as I stepped foot in there, I sobbed. It was so powerful. To really have a grasp that loved ones died in war. It became real to me. I still get weepy thinking about it.

I love my country and honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to ensure our freedom.

Have a safe and happy Memorial Day Weekend... and please take a moment to remember.

Love,

Tammy

How Do YOU Roll??

2009-05-20T18:19:00.002-06:00

It's an age old question. I have even seen it as posts on other blogs...

Do you hang your toilet paper OVER or UNDER??

As you can see by the pictures, that's how I roll.

I Was RIGHT!!

2009-05-18T14:03:00.002-06:00

I have posted before about my allergies since moving to Las Cruces. Well, I finally went to the allergist and got some wonderful medications that make me feel better. I can breathe!!!!

Another symptom I had been having was a constant cough (that had been hanging around for about 2 months!) and green phlegm and a REALLY tight chest, along with shortness of breath. Not a pretty sight.

I told the doctor about the nurse AND doctor about this and I was told I did NOT have an infection because my lungs sounded clear. I was sent home on my way with the instruction to call back in a week if things had not improved.

Well, the week went by and my allergy symptoms were gone, but the cough and green junk and tight chest and shortness of breath were all still there. I spoke to the nurse, told her what was going on and I was put on hold while she spoke to the doctor. She gets back on and says that the doctor thinks it is bronchitis and that I should follow up with my primary care doctor.

OK.... now I am mad.

The remainder of the conversation was VERY strained...

ME: I was in YOUR office a week ago with these symptoms and NOTHING had been done
HER: Well the doctor said your lungs were clear, you need to see your primary care doctor we are slammed here.
ME: He is booked out for weeks, can't you call in some antibiotics for me?
HER: No, not without being seen.
ME: Can I get in YOUR office tomorrow?
HER: No, your doctor is out until Monday. You could always go to Urgent Care
ME: {{silence}}
HER: Hold on

The moral to this story: If you feel something is not right with your body and a doctor dismisses it, (I am not talking about hypochondriacs) keep pushing until someone takes you seriously. You are the only one in charge of your health care.

Needless to say, I got in the next day, and they waived my copay. Turns out I DID have bronchitis and I got my drugs so now I am feeling MUCH better.

Introducing My Second Blog!!

2009-05-14T20:10:00.002-06:00

I posted a while ago about my need to lose weight. Well, I thought I would be more accountable for it by making it public.

I am dedicating my posts exclusively to my weight loss.

It is called..... drum roll please......

Fat With A Side of GERD

The inspiration for the name? Well, the first part is obvious.... but the GERD is from the fact that I just learned that I have it. It had drastically changed the way I have to eat.

For example I can no longer eat the following:

Any kind of citrus, including juice
Mint
Tomatoes or their derivitives
Spicy ANYTHING (hello!!!!! I live in NM!!!)
High Fat
Deep Fried
Greasy
Caffieine
Carbonated drinks
CHOCOLATE

I have to eat no less than 3 hrs before bedtime

I cannot wear anything tight on my waist

And being overweight doesn't help

It was a wake-up call. For the past week I have done my best to follow the eating plan and because of it..... I LOST 2.3 POUNDS!!!!!!! (can I get a wooo woooo!!!)

Be sure to stop by to see my progress.

I am excited for this.

Let's get movin'!

Love,

Tammy

Better Late Than Never!

2009-05-14T19:11:00.002-06:00

Lisaloo was nice enough to give me an award for my blog and it took me FOREVER to get it on here.

The rules for this one are as follows-

I must post the award on my blog
List seven personality traits of mine
Pass the award to seven other bloggers

1. I procrastinate
2. I love to speak in public.
3. I am a night owl
4. I talk A. LOT.
5. I am a hopeless romantic
6. I am a worrier
7. I love love love to laugh

The seven people I nominate are:

April - A Honu Experience
Paula - Random Blond
Wendy - No Botox Allowed
Stacy - The Gray Area
RPax - Good Things Come to Those Who Blog
Lisa - Leatherwood Family Adventures
An Eagles View

Shout Out to the LCFD!!

2009-05-12T09:32:00.002-06:00

Just when I thought we were done with our adoption paperwork.... I found some MORE that I missed!!!!

This is my life right now. Paperwork. Not complaining... I'm just sayin.

We have had to get stuff notarized (for a fee), pet's vaccinated (more money), fingerprinted ($$), background checks ($$$), and the list goes on and on.

One thing you have to do for an adoption is have your home inspected to make sure it won't go up in flames in a fit of spontaneous combustion. The fire department has to come to your home and inspect it. I called today to ask what the charge would be (because everything else had fees attached to it) and Lt. Gonzales at the LCFD uttered the two most beautiful words I could hear at that moment....: "NO CHARGE" The joy... the rapture!!!!

He was going to send someone right then and there, but I am at work and PLUS my house is a disaster area!!!! I need to clean first. A girl needs some notice!

So, thanks to Lt. Gonzales, the boys at the station will be receiving my homemade chocolate chip cookies as a great big Thank You (only if we pass, though!! hee hee) We'll pass, right? RIGHT?

Ode to My Mom this Mother's Day

2009-05-08T11:24:00.004-06:00

Without YouMom, without you, there would be no me.
Your love, your attention, your guidance,
have made me who I am.
Without you, I would be lost,
wandering aimlessly,
without direction or purpose.
You showed me the way
to serve, to accomplish, to persevere.
Without you, there would be an empty space
I could never fill, no matter how I tried.
Instead, because of you,
I have joy, contentment, satisfaction and peace.
Thank you, mom.
I have always loved you
and I always will.By Joanna Fuchs

I love my mom. She often refers to me as her "Miracle Baby". A long time ago, I found out why. When she was pregnant with me, she was diagnosed with Uterine Cancer. The doctors told her to have an abortion, because they couldn't treat the cancer while she was pregnant. My mom refused. She risked her life, letting cancer grow inside her to give me life.

I know that a blog post does NOT do justice for the sacrifice she made to have me, but I felt the need to share with you all, what a wonderful woman my mom is. I thank the Lord she is still on this earth.

I love you mom.

Begging

2009-05-07T10:24:00.006-06:00

As you all know in bloggy land, we are in the process of adoption. We have paid off our debts (can I get a woo woo!!!!!) and are saving up all that we can, to be ready for "the call".

Upon Googling ways to fund adoptions and adoption grants, etc., I came across this site.

This site has partnered with T.O.N.S retailers (many of whom you probably already use!) that make donations to different causes.

So, we are asking our families and friends (both blog and real life) to please at least check this site out, if you are interested in helping us earn money for our adoption.

If you would like to use this site to help, you will need to do the following:

1. Go to the website: http://www.onecause.com

2. Create an account

3. Choose "National Adoption Foundation" as your cause

4. Once you do that, On the left side of the "My Home" page, there is a menu and there is a link for Supporter Crediting. Click on that and then click the button to enroll. It will then give you a place to put an email address. Put ours in there.

5. GO SHOPPING like you normally do, at retailers you normally do!!!!!

The major difference is: THERE IS NOTHING EXTRA ADDED TO YOUR PURCHASE!!

The retailer makes the contribution.

For Example:

You buy a book on Amazon
Total purchase price with
tax & shipping: $15.76

You buy the same book on Amazon through the OneCause site...
Total purchase price with
tax & shipping: $ 15.76!!

AMAZON would then make the contribution to the National Adoption Foundation!!

How cool is that?!?!?

Talk about a WIN / WIN situation.

Please know that we are NOT asking for anyone to contribute money to our adoption. We are just asking that if you do online shopping, consider taking a different path, that will get you what you want, but it would also be helping to bring a family together.

Thank you so much for your support.

Roll Them RRRRRRRRR's

2009-05-04T16:36:00.004-06:00

OK... I have been wondering this for a LOOOOONG time.

Why is it that when a news anchor (that does not have an accent) is reporting the news, they talk and talk, with no accent, but when they come to a Hispanic name or word, they all of a sudden pronounce that word or name with an accent?

They don't pronounce Irish or Scottish names with the appropriate accent....

They don't pronounce French names with the appropriate accent....

They don't pronounce Russian, Ukrainian or Polish names with the appropriate accent...

They don't pronounce German names with the appropriate accent...

They don't pronounce Sweedish, Dutch, Finnish names with the appropriate accent....

They don't pronounce Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Polynesian, names with an accent...

Do you see my point? Do ya, huh, huh?? Do ya???

Happy Friday!!

2009-05-01T15:28:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone has a great weekend and may any news you get, be good news!

(this picture is from http://icanhascheezburger.com/page/8/)

Crazy Brow Lady

2009-04-30T09:28:00.004-06:00

Ya ever have one (or more) of those Crazy, Mad Scientist Eyebrow days? For the past couple of days, it's as if my eyebrows were rebelling about something. I could not get them to lay flat for the life of me!!! I tried water, combing them, to no avail. They were up, down, out and backwards. All I had to do was perfect my E-Vill (like the fru-its of the dev-il, a little Dr. Evil there for ya.) laugh and the look would have been complete!

But, rest assured... all is well now. I have conquered the beasts.

Super de Duper!!!

2009-04-26T20:26:00.002-06:00

I found this on "No Biggie" blog and FELL. IN. LOVE. with it. There is nothing more to say. It is awesome.

What's In a Name?

2009-04-23T14:32:00.005-06:00

The hubbs and I decided to create a separate blog for our adoption. It will be like our online profile for birth parents to look at.
I am excited because I have commissioned April from April Showers blog fame to design our adoption blog. It should be done in about a month, provided my OCD doesn't kick in and I end up making a BAZILLION changes.

Anyhoo, I am stumped. We need to name our Adoption Blog, but are coming up blank for names.

So, I am reaching out and asking for your help.

Please post a comment with your suggestion for our Adoption Blog Name and if we choose yours, prizes will be involved!!

We are asking for REAL names, no sarcasm and nothing we couldn't show our Bishop.

Thanks!!!

It's Time!

2009-04-20T00:36:00.004-06:00

"Edwina's insides were a rocky place where my seed could find no purchase." - Raising Arizona

This quote has been near and dear to me for many a year. It's funny and sad at the same time, which perfectly describes our journey to parenthood, (although mostly sad) This subject is not something I have blogged a lot about, but my hubbs and I have had LOTS of trouble trying to have children.

That being said, this is not meant to be a sad post. It is actually great news.

The hubbs and I decided (in sacrament meeting, no less... passing notes back and forth, yes we ARE that mature!) to finish our adoption paperwork.

We turned in the first half about a year ago, put down our "deposit". I think we (I) got financial cold feet and things kind of fizzled out on our end. I kept wanting these financial goal met (which is not a bad thing, except when you aren't doing the things you need to do to reach your goal) Well, we've met most of the goals now. We are almost debt free, and continuing to build our savings.

The final push to get things going again...

This weekend we went out to dinner with my hubby's sister (& family) and our good friends (& their baby). After dinner, we were walking out to the car and the two mom's took their babies to their respective cars because their babies needed to be fed (they both breast feed). I felt so excluded at that moment. I was outside, hanging out with the guys.

Our goal is to get all the paperwork, finger prints, EVERYTHING filled out and sent off by then end of the week.

Once we do that, we have to get our homestudy done, then we can create our profiles (one for their website and a hard copy) once all is approved, we are officially on the waiting list. And while we are doing all of that, we need to...SAVE, SAVE, SAVE!!!!! Adoption is not cheap.

Donations will GLADLY be accepted!!!

So, my bloggy friends, over the next few months, as our adoption journey resumes, I will be keeping you filled in with the ups and downs, the highs and lows of this exciting time in our life.

Woooo Hooo!!

A is for Allergies

2009-04-13T10:36:00.003-06:00

Growing up, my sister Debbie always suffered from allergies. Being the adorable, perfect little sister that I was, I used to think she was faking to get attention. She would chew with her mouth open (ewwww) because she said she couldn't breathe out of her nose.

We had a job when we were teenagers, cleaning our bishop's house and it would make me so mad because she would get out of ALL the yard work and doing things like vacuuming and dusting, blaming her "allergies". So I was stuck doing most EVERYTHING and she got paid the same.

I was lucky never to have to suffer from allergies.... until I moved to Las Cruces, NM.

I have only lived here a few years, but EVERY spring there is something in the air that just KICKS. MY. BUTT. I feel miserable for a few months, living on Zyrtec and Excedrin. It gets REALLY windy here, which doesn't help. Eventually, I will see an allergist so I can get some relief. My hubby is doing that and it had helped tremendously.

I realize now that my sister was not faking, but I am SURE she was milking it to get out of chores. What kid wouldn't?

Another One Bites The Dust

2009-04-05T17:29:00.004-06:00

In my last post I was very upset over some plans that didn't pan out. I have since gotten over that for the most part and I wanted to say thank you for your thoughts, prayers and kind words.

One plan that is working out a little slower than I would have liked it to, but still happening is becoming debt free. (wooo hooo!)

Today was General Conference (meaning a vacation from church, KIDDING!!!!). We were able to stay home and watch it on TV from the comfort of our couch and wearing those really comfortable, wouldn't dare be seen in public clothes. Anyway... I digress.

The hubbs and I decided it was time to redo our budget. We sat down and were going over our bills and what we had in the bank. One bill that we have had since we got married is his student loan. We had budgeted to pay it off in the next 6 months. We did some more checking and saw that we had enough in our savings accounts to pay it off NOW.

So, we sent the payment off today!!!

ONE MORE DEBT G.O.N.E.!!!!!!!!

If you have debt, get it paid off as soon as you can. Yes... it sucks not having the extra money in the short term, but the feeling of peace and freedom is worth more than that. Plus, if you really looked at how much you are actually paying for things (with interest and finance charges) when you charge or finance them, it is scary. THAT money could be going into YOUR pocket, not the credit card company's.

I am very passionate about becoming debt free. I get a tingle and thrill when we send off the final payments on our debts. We are/were very fortunate not to be heavily in debt.

When we are finally debt free (excluding the house payment) we plan on having a HUGE party to celebrate. You are all invited!

If any one has questions on paying off your debt, I am not an expert, but I will help any way I can. Just put your question in with your comment along with your email address.

I will leave you with these words from www.providentliving.org

We should avoid debt. There is nothing that will cause greater tensions in life than grinding debt, which will make the debtor a slave to creditors. A specific goal, careful planning, and determined self-discipline are required to accomplish this.

President N. Eldon Tanner taught: "Those who structure their standard of living to allow a little surplus, control their circumstances. Those who spend a little more than they earn are controlled by their circumstances. They are in bondage”

Life is What Happens When You're Busy Making Plans

2009-03-31T10:25:00.004-06:00

Recently, some plans that I had for my future don't seem to be panning out how I would like them to be. The disappointment didn't really hit me until today. I am sitting here trying to keep from crying (because I am a big crybaby and I always cry when I don't want to!!!), and I can't really vent about it on my blog!

Things may still go in the direction I want them to, only time will tell.

Sacred Bovine... Where Did This Come From?!?!?

2009-03-24T19:11:00.003-06:00

I am completely dumbfounded!! Today, in the mail, we received this... a PediPaws.

There are 2 things wrong with this.....

1. Our cats are declawed (don't start with me all you PETA freaks!)
2. I. DIDN'T. ORDER. IT.

I don't recall entering any giveaway on any blog for it.

I checked all of our accounts, there is no charge for it.

It was addressed to ME with our correct address on it.

So.... I tried to contact the company it came from, but there is no phone number to call them with!!!

I will try to email them and see what comes of it.

If they insist it's mine, even though I didn't pay for it, I will be having a giveaway on my blog!

We All Have Work, Let No One Shirk

2009-03-20T09:31:00.004-06:00

Many more people could ride out the storm-tossed waves in their economic lives if they had
their . . . supply of food . . . and were debt-free. Today we find that many have followed this counsel in reverse: they have at least a year’s supply of debt and are food-free.”

President Thomas S. Monson, “That Noble Gift— Love at Home,” Church News, May 12, 2001, 7.

The prophets of our church have been counseling members to have a 1 year supply of food and to get out of debt for years. The hubbs and and I have been working diligently to get out of debt. We paid off and cancelled our one and only credit card last year. I was so happy I cried when we pulled up the zero balance on the statement. We are now working toward getting his student loan paid off. If we have our way, it will be done this summer. I cannot express the sense of peace we feel as we get these things paid off and out of our life.

We are also working on our almost non-existent food storage. Our church almost makes it too easy for people to meet their goals of 1 year food storage. A few weeks ago, I looked over the order form and chose the things we wanted to add to our food storage. Then once a month, the cannery cans 3-4 items from the order sheet. So, you get your stuff gradually. This is really easy on the budget too, since you only pay for what you get that night. The catch? (if you really want to call it that) is that when you work at the cannery, you can for ALL orders.

The things that we canned last night were:
Refried beans
Potato Flakes
Oats
Hot Cocoa
Dried Milk

All in all we canned over 230 #10 cans of all of that stuff. I have to tell you, it was so much fun! My job was to fill the cans and get them ready to be sealed. The work is VERY fast paced, and it only took 2 hours to can, seal, sort and clean up. You get to wear an attractive hair net and a plastic apron. I. looked. so. cute.

Again, the sense of peace I felt for working on our food storage and doing what the Lord has asked us to do is more than words can say.

May the Lord bless you in your efforts today.