Sun Valley

Levi and I got to do something that I've wanted to do for years -- ever since I heard the activity existed. We got to go to Sun Valley and take a "sleigh" ride! I can't tell you how excited I was! Especially because the openings fill up very quickly. I made all the reservations and decided to do the day trip instead of the night one. It's been so cold around here lately that I thought we might enjoy it more the warmer it was {that really only applies to me; Levi is always warm; I sleep with socks and an extra blanket.} And I use the term "warm" loosely for the day of our trip. The temperature was between 27-30 degrees depending on the city we were in. But that was warmer than the evening temps of about 7 degrees.

Sun Valley Club

Our ride took us to the Sun Valley Clubhouse. A beautiful building with a beautiful view. It overlooks the golf course that serves as a preferred cross-country skiing destination. Snow-covered mountains and trees as far as the eye could see. Levi and I warmed up in there for a little while. I ordered their chicken curry soup and glass of wine. I tell you what, I was really torn between staying in the clubhouse, enjoying the food and view, and enjoying the rest of our ride!

On our way back

I don't think I have to tell you what a gorgeous day it was. The sunshine and blue sky made the entire city look like a picture out of a calendar.

Our Sweet Ride | Duke, Dan & Clay {driver}

When we were done, we strolled around the small town and visited the boutiques and shops. We didn't buy anything, of course, {the price tags are targeted at the likes of Bruce Willis and the Schwarzeneggar family}, but we did love just looking. Some artist decided to share their talent with the lucky visitors who managed to walk by their creations:

Snowflake

There was also a Christmas tree and a Santa sculpture. I really appreciate people who can manipulate the elements like that. They take a beautiful thing that God created and make another beautiful out of it. What is that? Like, beautiful squared or something?

We grabbed Chai lattes and stopped a couple places on our way home so I could snap a few pictures. I just love it.

When In Home

*WARNING: The following post contains graphic, self-congratulating & back-patting by the author. Humble viewer discretion is advised.*

I did a lot today. And it felt good. Really good. I've actually been quite productive lately, and my accomplishments are emphasized with every item I cross off my never-ending lists.

But today was different. There were no lists, no expectations. It was supposed to be my last lazy Saturday before the Christmas festivities. {Oh, who am I kidding -- the Christmas festivities started the day after Thanksgiving.} But I actually pushed my butt outta bed, completed a 2-mile brisk walk in the comfort of my living room, trekked over to Sunsations to tan for a few minutes {but the Kids Klub was closed; maybe next time}, headed over to Appliance Warehouse to check out their dishwashers {my current one wants to keep the soap all to itself and not share any with the dirty dishes; it does this very noisily}, talked with Levi about said dishwashers, went home, made reservations in Sun Valley, made lunch, made cookie dough, vacuumed and cleaned while refrigerating cookie dough, made 2-dozen cookies out of aforementioned dough, went back to A.W. and placed order for dishwasher, came home with new microwave {at husband's request}, replaced new microwave with Gracie & Gus in the back of my car, took them to Petsmart for necessary nail-grinding {Gus took maybe a minute; they had to call in backup for Gracie *sigh*}, got stopped by every other store patron so they could tell me what clowns pugs are {of this, I am keenly aware}, brought dogs home, changed Eric's and my clothes, placed order with waitress at Applebee's.

{Ahhhh.}

And you want to know what else? Our dinner was entirely free. I had a $25 certificate and our dinner came to $24.53. Even with dessert! That was {quite literally} the cherry on top!

{I did tip our waitress well, so hopefully we both had a good night.}

What a wonderful day. It's a good thing I managed to kick my own butt through that 2-mile walk this morning; I think it gave me the jumpstart I needed to make this an incredible day! Eric even let me borrow his Disney Christmas cd so we could flood the house with holiday music. The Lord has blessed us so much. Thanks for being one of those blessings.

Only 6 days 'til Christmas!

Frosty Fun

I've sure been having fun so far this Christmas season. The shopping has been a blast! Giving gifts is something I love to do anyway; I enjoy hunting down that perfect gift for that special someone that I know they will love. I put serious effort into the process but the pay-off is always worth it. Eric's birthday gave me a jump-start on the shopping which has been nice -- it's given me time to make sure I remember everyone I feel I should.

I had forgotten about one of my favorite cookie recipes that I had made last year. I had written it down in a little notebook and {thankfully} it was still there!

Austrian Jam Cookies

No treat has ever disappeared so quickly. Sweet and salty always compliment each other, but this combination is perfect. So I'm very excited about making more this year!

I got our tree up about a week ago. I do the same decorations every year and never tire of them: various gold and red lovelies. My favorite items are the large red poinsettias. I clipped them on all over the tree and they make it so bright and cheerful.

One of the channels on tv has been playing a loop of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. I don't think that movie will ever go out of style. This is the first year I've watched the whole thing. Boy is it funny. And it's really a clean kind of funny. I had forgotten that Julia Louis-Dreyfus played one of the neighbors. Her physical comedy just kills me; one of the reasons I like Seinfeld.

Anyway, I'm going to go see if I can find another holiday movie playing while it snows outside. Only 18 days 'til Christmas!

Sweet!

I was so excited about this deal that I wanted to share it. Macy's just recently had their famous One Day Sale. I also had a few coupons and a savings pass that I had brought along. I absolutely love the things Macy's sells, but often times can't justify paying full price for them. So I was anxious to make the most of the sale.

We had picked names in my family, with a limit of $20. The adults usually help each other out with ideas to make it a bit easier and to ensure everyone gets something they actually want. :) And my mom had told me that someone in that "group" had picked me, so if I found something I liked to tell her.

Well, I found something. And since the website won't allow me to save the picture file, you should be able to view it here.

And it was on sale for $19.99! I couldn't believe it! What's even better, I found a sweater-dress in the same color (something that I have wanted for a long time) on sale for the same price.

Well, between the sale prices of the day combined with a coupon I was able to use, I got both of them for $27.84! My mom and I split the total and she took the coat home with her to wrap! The bottom of the receipt told me how much we had saved from the regular prices: $51.02! We saved over $50 on 2 things! I couldn't believe it! What a ridiculous success that turned out to be!

Untitled

It's been a long time since a death has touched this closely to my family. And I praise God for that. My family has been abundantly blessed with long, healthy lives (I still have all of my grandparents). It's something I know I take for granted every day.

The last time the mystery of death shadowed my world was several years ago. My sister's and mine childhood friend and neighbor was killed in a car accident. It was surreal and devastating to me. She was 15.

Today I was asked to make a printout of a handsome young soldier who had died in Iraq on Nov. 8. His unique last name made me hold my breath because I knew that last name: Heffelfinger. We had the pleasure of being neighbors to a 50-something couple with the same last name a few years ago. Craig & Barb.

I became rather close to Barb, visiting her frequently, talking about gardening and flowers, and homemade cards and jewelry. We could sit for literally hours and chat.

Barb became sick with multiple illnesses and to make a long story short, had to be on an at-home IV for several weeks. She asked if I would be willing to learn how to change her IVs and bandages so the nurses wouldn't have to come anymore. Of course, I said yes.

It was an interesting experience for me and it brought us closer together. She talked often of her children. One of them, an Apache helicopter gunner, if my memory serves me. As most military mom's (I imagine), she was incredibly proud and worried sick at the same time. He was good at what he did.

But I couldn't remember his first name. The name of the soldier in the picture I had was Mathew Heffelfinger. "Mathew" with only one "t". I found a picture of him smiling and gasped, "He looks just like Barb." I continued researching the events of his death and the word "helicopter" flew out of one of the articles and about slapped me across the face. I had been clinging to the hope that he may just be another un-related Heffelfinger until I read that.

I couldn't take it anymore. I had to know for sure. It was like I was teetering on a tight-rope and didn't dare breathe for fear the slightest change would make me fall. I called the man who had sent me the picture and asked if he knew Mathew's parents' names. He said, "Craig." I finished with "And Barb."

Mathew Heffelfinger

It was real. And it's awful. The service is tomorrow and I honestly don't know if I can bear to go. I suffer horribly when those around me suffer. I become painfully empathetic, putting myself in the family's position and my heart literally aches. It is truly an excruciating experience for me. I hope that doesn't sound like the beginning of a bad excuse. It just effects my life so profoundly and very few can understand why. My brain clicks to "sorrow" mode and immediately begins making me acutely aware of the things the family will no longer be able to share with their loved one. And the things the loved one will never be able to do.

Then everything Eric says and does makes me want to cry because I never want to take him for granted.

*whew*

It's rough on me. I needed somewhere to spill all of this, so here it is. I honestly feel better. That surprises me. I'm thankful for that. And thankful for every day the Lord gives me with the people I love. I don't care how bad it gets, people, you will always have something to be thankful for.

Fa-La-La-La-Lots To Do!

I feel like we have been so busy lately. And it's been really fun stuff! It's like the whole world shifts gears when October hits. As soon as all the hype of Halloween dies down, Christmas hits like an avalanche.
I love the down-pour of harvest festivals, craft fairs, and SALES in general! I try to hit our local Real Deals at least once a week {it's only open 2 days a week.} And this weekend, the annual CSI Harvest Craft Festival started with over 200 vendors! It's so fun to look and get ideas {like homemade fudge and jewelry}.
And I started teaching pre-school crafts at my church on Wednesday nights, every other month. November is my month. It's so much fun. And Eric gets to be in my class. He's still not quite sure of the "mommy-as-a-teacher" concept. In the midst of 3 little people yelling "Teacher! Teacher!" I'll hear his voice say "Hi, Mom." I think he does it to make sure I still answer to it. :)
We're also getting ready for my little man to celebrate his 4th birthday. It's coming up fast, but I'm prepared. He's just trying to decide between a Wolverine theme or Scooby-Doo. And that, my friend, is a hard decision for the 3-year-old mind.
I just finished designing my grandparents' (on my mom's side) 50th wedding anniversary invitations. They turned out so beautifully. I'm so thankful I got to play a part in such a special day in their lives. My family, Eric, and I are going to So. California in December to celebrate with them. It's been a few years since I've seen all my relatives down there, so I'm really looking forward to it. Unfortunately, Levi can't go, but someone's gotta hold down the fort {and make sure my other 2 "kids" have food and water}.
We got our house siding fixed a couple weeks ago after the fire I'm sure most of you know about. It looks perfect; you would never tell anything had happened. And Levi sold his toasted pickup to a guy in Caldwell. He loved Levi's truck so much, he wants to rebuild it. {Best of luck to ya, bud!}
We're heading up to Boise tomorrow to visit my sister and her husband for her birthday! Her birthday's not til the 9th, but we all get to go to the huge movie theater and watch the new A Christmas Carol movie! It should be a great time! Eric and I have never been there. {Last time my family went, he and I hit up Chuck E. Cheese!}
I think the next thing on my to-do list is figure out our Christmas photo. I love doing that every year, but I've never been this tardy! I welcome all ideas! ;)

Before the Trees Get Naked

This past Saturday, my girlfriend Suzanne and I had planned on taking her family pictures somewhere in the beautiful fall foliage. The leaves had just started to turn and the weather forecast was mostly sunny in the low 70s. I had gone hunting for a good spot the day before and captured my little guy {looking entirely too old.}

That morning, I watched her baby girl, Sydney, while Suzanne attended a baby shower. While Eric, Sydney, and I were hanging out, I noticed the thousands of pretty yellow leaves in my neighbor's yard. We went over and asked if we could rake them up and "borrow" them for some pictures. My neighbor generously said yes, so I loaded Syd up in her stroller, got Eric's wagon, and then grabbed the dog's little blue pool.




Anyway, that evening, we went out with Suzanne, her husband Jon, and Sydney, and got a few really cute shots. {These aren't edited yet, but you get the idea.}

{Leaves are imported from my neighbor's yard.}

Oh, The Possibilities

So, a girlfriend of mine and I are thinking we need to throw a Fall/Halloween/We're-Adults-But-We-Don't-Care-We-Wanna-Dress-Up-Too shin-dig. I found out she's known for years what she'd want to be if given the chance to dress up:

A) Pirate

B) Vampire

Simple enough. She would be perfect for either character.

So, why is it that I am having such a hard time figuring this out? To be honest, I haven't actually thought about dressing myself up {besides the usual mandatory morning routine which is way less fun} since our church's second-to-last Harvest Festival. I was a cheerleader. And I believe I was a freshman in high school.

Yeah. It's been a while.

Nowadays, Halloween revolves around the plethera of superhero/ninja/soldier/masked whatever costumes the retailers convince little boys they simply can't live without. {"But Mo-ooommm! How will I fight the bad guys without a suit?!"}

Apparently "bad guys" have gotten so bad that they don't realize their sword/web/laser-wielding opponent is actually a superhero without an emblazoned "S", spider, or bat somewhere on the chest-area of the clothes said opponent is wearing.

*sigh*

So my friend and I have been batting around ideas for me. I've listed a few below.

Saloon Girl

Gangster/Mobster

Pink Ranger
{This is my son's choice}

Flamingo

What to do. . .what to do. . .


*Please note: I have neither the cleavage nor the desire to wear the exact costumes pictured. They are merely visual aids. Feel free to lower your eyebrows.

Cock-A-Doodle-Don't

{5:30 a.m.}

I'm hearing some sort of rhythmic, throaty noise emanating from under my bed. I turn my phone on for some light and shine it under there, though, I really didn't need to. I had already assumed it was one of my dogs puking.

I can very clearly see that I was correct in my assumption.

I am now wishing I hadn't had the light from my phone to prove me right in such detail.


{5:57 a.m.}

I am boring a hole in the ceiling with my eyes as I lay in bed, listening to the dog who just woke me up with his partially-digested food, snore and snore. I'm not sure if I'm more upset that he's woke me up again or that he's sleepy soundly. Both.

I convince myself he's actually awake and is just laying there, with one eye peeking open, waiting to see how long it takes me to get out of my warm bed. I don't get up -- I fly out of my bed. This dog will not get the best of me! Ha!

So, I push both my dogs off their bed and lug it into the kitchen. Reason why this is a spectacular idea #1) Distance makes the snores grow quieter {or whatever that old chestnut is} and, #2) Dog vomit cleans up off of linoleum in a fraction of the time it takes to get it out of the carpet.

G'night.


{6:30 a.m.}

What is that? Hmm, must just be my hair getting situated between my head and the pillow.

But I'm not moving.

What the?!

If you thought I moved quickly during the snoring, you hadn't seen anything yet.

When something feels the need to crawl across my forehead in the early morning hours (actually, any hour of the day is unacceptable), I don't mess around. It will die. I will thrash around and pound every square inch of my bed until anything besides myself is unable to even offer an apology.

{I then apologize to Levi for scaring him witless.}

Mr. Spider, you picked the wrong girl on the wrong morning.


{Somewhere between 8:00 & 8:30 a.m.}

I am cozy and warm and finally sleeping when I am suddenly aware that Eric has come into my bed (Levi had left for work at some point.)

I ask the usual question first thing in the morning: "Are you wet?"

"Um, no. My bed is, but I'm not! I took my wet underwear off and put them in the sink and put these other ones on," is the response.

I could tell by his 3-yr.-old voice that he was proud of his problem-solving ability. Unfortunately, my brain was still on "irked" mode and this announcement didn't help. Mostly because just 3 days ago, I had sworn to myself that I was going to get his comforter to the laundromat. It had been folded up and stored in the office for the entire summer because it was too warm and it was a pain to wash every time he peed. Oh, and the teensy little issues of dog barf and the spider tour de Janelle.

So, I made it to the laundromat, used one of the commercial-size washers, inserted about 117 quarters, waited & waited, and got it clean! It air-dried in my backyard and was finally ready to use -- especially with the cooler temperatures! And now I have to do it all again!

*sigh*

I consoled myself with a huge slice of raspberry-cherry pie. Alright, alright, maybe not. But I thought about it.

Strawberries on my Cheerios'll work, too.

Farmer's Market Booty

And by "booty" I mean loot, treasures, lovelies, etc.!

Eric and I actually were out scouting yard sales when I saw the sign for the local Farmer's Market! I couldn't believe I had forgotten about such an event! I believe there was about 30 vendors there today and almost all had samples of their wares!

I tell ya -- nothing clenches a sale like the lure of free jams/breads/cookies/pies/produce/beads/hot pads/you get the idea.

Homemade Potpourri | Orange Spice

Homemade 7" Pie | Raspberry Peach

Seasoned Sea Salt | Makes incredible chicken!

Three other items were purchased that I did not get pictures of: a frosted sugar cookie and 2 homemade, gourmet dog treats {made with flour, garlic, and parmesan. $.25! I almost saved them for myself! They smelled so good!} Gracie and Gus barely let those get in the door!

I believe there are about 4 Saturdays left. This wonderland ends for the season on Oct. 24. It's from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. So worth it!

Breaking Up With Summer

Dear Summer,

I need to confess something to you. While in the midst of feeling your soft, warm caress this afternoon, I looked out the window -- only for a moment -- when I saw a. . .a. . .well. . .I saw a leaf fall to the ground. And I watched it fall all the way down.

{downcast eyes}

I know it isn't any excuse, but I want you to know the leaf hadn't yet discarded its green coloring. And while it may not have been any hue of red, orange, or yellow, it still distracted me from you. And I am ashamed.

Please know I never meant to hurt you. You have been good to me the last two months and I wouldn't trade those for the world. But if this is the end of our hot, seasonal affair, then I understand.

Until next year, my sweet, sweet Summer Sun. . .

Step Right Up, Folks!

Another year of corn dogs, cotton candy & "Can we do it again?!" has come and gone. And stomach-ache or not, we survived it.

I must say, though, this year was {far} more bearable than most. With the exception of a couple of days that convinced me we had arrived on the surface of the sun, the weather was incredible! And what's even more -- tolerable levels of people.

I'll take the heat over a {crabby} crowd any day.

Eric and I hit the ride scene on Thursday. It was one of the hottest days, but we found occasional refuge in the shade of telephone poles. There was not one line to be had. Not for the rides {or} the elephant ear stand! Did your jaw just hit your desk? 'Cause I totally heard it.

For those of you who may not know why such a statement is so unbelievable or would like to know what breed of people choose to stand in line to purchase an ear from an animal native to Africa, please allow me to explain: an elephant ear is a giant spherically-shaped scone, smothered in butter and either one or all of the following: powdered sugar, cinnamon & sugar, honey. They are usually boiling-lava hot but you eat them anyway because {even though your tongue can't actually taste it} your brain is telling you it's divine. It's a fact. Factual enough that the line for such a fried delicacy usually spans across at least half the entire area allotted for food vendors. {sigh}

This setup makes it irritatingly difficult for the ladies to make their way to the purse vendor on the far side {so I've heard...}

Saturday, I returned to the fair in the afternoon to play a small part in a Modbe fashion show. It was tons of fun with several cute girls and I got to wear an adorable top with some super-cute jeans. And we got our makeup done. What girl wouldn't want that?

I then got to meet up with one of my best friends {Suzanne Jarvis} and her husband {Jon} and their baby girl {Sydney}. We wandered through the animal barns and watched Syd squeal with delight at her first encounters with several animals: horses, goats, sheep, etc. The goats nibbled at her bare toes with their nimble lips and she giggled and giggled! It was {adorable}! We then enjoyed the final night of the rodeo with great seats and a full moon! And Suzanne got to experience Mutton Bustin' for the first time!

Monday, Levi, Eric & I made it to the Demolition Derby. It was great watching the clunkers go from the classic "boats" as we knew them to compact cars with no front bumpers and always-on windshield wipers. We got some nachos and Eric got a corn dog and we had a really nice, cool evening. After the derby, we grabbed some mini-donuts and Levi got a Tater-Pig, chatted up some friends and headed out before the crowds.

Fair 2009 -- Success

New Vintage

I updated my blog (yet again). Sorry, it's what I do. I get bored easily -- one of the reasons I hate flying.

Anyway, I really like how this turned out. It's simple and classic; not sure how you can beat that.

Ok, to be honest, I'm hoping it'll inspire me to post more frequently. Does that sound ridiculous to anyone but me? {sigh} I'm looking for motivation and pretty things have a tendency to motivate girls.

I hope you're still reading this.

Leave me comments reassuring me you haven't decided to question my intellect and what you use for motivation. ;)

My Digital Portfolio

I'm not sure how many of you know about my solution to paying for a website to showcase my design work (or how many of you know that I even do that), BUT nevertheless, I have a link to the right of my page that take those who chose to click to a small blog of my work.

J DESIGNS

I have been told that my business name is less-creative than my actual work, but I love it. The "J", of course, stands for "Janelle" though a number of people have tried to be "creative" (and by "creative", I mean "sarcastic", "funny", "that's quite a stretch", etc.) But that's to be expected from the people I choose to surround myself with.

Anyway, all of my work is completely custom. I get asked about pricing for certain types of work but can only really offer my hourly rate. I never put a one-lump-sum on any project because it is absolutely a guarantee that my client will find 27 of the most time-consuming details to change. Which is fantastic; I am happy to oblige.

I'm also happy to get paid for my time.

Anyway, you can click the word "J DESIGNS" above to visit it, if you'd like. And just because you may not see something doesn't mean I can't do it. It just means I haven't...yet.

And I know it's early (oh, for crying out loud, I can't believe I'm even going to say this), but it's a great time to start thinking about fun, custom Christmas greetings for super cheap!

Questions? Demands? --> j.dzyns@hotmail.com

Oh, He's Listening Alright

Eric is an amazing communicator. His vocabulary is huge and he can carry on like an adult. And nothing could make me prouder...or make me want to slap my forehead...like his "little" 3 year old mouth.

The subtlety and obvious nature of what children say is just hilarious. Like, when I stub my toe, for example, and Eric will ask me "What did you do?" I'll tell him what happened and that it hurt my toe and he responds with "Well, don't do that then."

Problem solved.

And one of the most memorable times was when he was sitting on the couch, by himself, playing with his Optimus Prime transformer. He loves that toy, but it gets the best of him sometimes. My proof comes from what I overheard as I was in the adjoining kitchen: "I'm so frustrated with this damn* transformer thing!"

I slapped my hand over my mouth to stifle the laughter over what I could not believe I had just heard. My beautiful, pure baby boy, playing innocently with his toy on the couch with, what I imagined to be, black residue on his little lips!

After I composed myself, I calmly and nonchalantly mentioned that that wasn't a nice word and we try not to say it...so, how's about that weather?!

Anyway, onto my true inspiration for this post: this morning.

Levi had just gotten up for work; I was still laying in bed when Eric came and crawled into the newly-vacant spot. Levi came crashing down on both of us, pestering us with poking and tickling. Well, I don't care to be manhandled first thing in the morning, so I sternly asked him to stop.

No luck.

He kept at it and kept at it. I was getting irritated and Levi knew it so he thought he'd try to make it "all better" my placing little kisses on my shoulder. It wasn't working and even Eric knew it because the next thing we heard was:

"You're only kissing her because you're in trouble!"

My kiddo is way too observant.


*please note: I do not use that language. It is not acceptable speech. However, Hollywood insisted on putting it in SpiderMan--one of Eric's all-time favorite movies. And dog-gone it, he learned exactly where to put it in a sentence. Part of me feels like writing a strongly-worded letter...the other part is thankful for the laugh. ;)

You'd Think, With ALL Those Legs...

Saturday, the 8th, I had planned to wash my car. It was filthy and I couldn't take it anymore; nothing was going to get in my way (even the dark clouds grimacing down at me). So, I got my towels, soap, and sponge and headed to the garage to get the bucket...


Look who was waiting to greet me! I'm fairly certain I saw my reflection in his eyes, that's how big he was...or at least appeared to be. There was a Chapstick on Levi's toolbox, so I grabbed it--and my camera--so you can get an idea of what I'm talking about here.

Unfortunately, I couldn't put all those long legs to use in washing my car, and I really didn't want Eric or the dogs to find it (or the other way around), so I brought it to the opposite side of our house and...well...I squished it. I didn't like doing it, but I figured it was the lesser of two evils.

*shudder*

Green Acres

Eric and I (along with Gracie & Gus, of course) have been out at my folks' dairy since Monday. They left for Californina...without us. *sigh* So, instead of sulking and pouting around, I put my big-girl panties on and decided the decent thing to do would make sure nothing died.

I'm just that kinda gal.

We've been having a good time over here watering my mom's 1,027 flowers and tomatos, getting the dogs to stop eating unmentionables, fishing dead flies out of the pool...you know, the "good times".

Be jealous.

Nah, it's not really that bad. It's been so warm that we've been making good use of the pool and I have been watering the plants as late as 11:00 p.m. because it feels great out at that hour.

Their neighbors left the day after my folks did and now I'm watching their house too. The wife has a huge garden and it smells so fresh! She very generously told me I could have whatever I wanted while they were gone and I already have about 6 zucchini (sp?). Any takers? My only real concern about their place is their chocolate lab, Molly. She's lonely over there and is so excited to see me when I get there that she usually tries to sneak across busy 3700 and come with me. I hate it because it makes me paranoid; I cringe every time a car drives by just in case she decided to venture over right at that moment. I feel bad but I just can't let her come with me. She will begin to think crossing the road is OK and it's not.

Anyway, I've been giving the pugs swimming lessons in the pool. Ok, not really. They already know how. Though, Gus is a better sinker than swimmer. His chubby butt heads downward before he can make much headway. But that stinker loves to be wet! He gets all spastic and giddy as soon as he gets out. It is hilarious! And Gracie is an incredible swimmer. She streamlines right through the water. Then she'll swim up to me and I'll hold her in the water and she falls asleep! It's one of her favorite places! The cool water on her belly, the sun on her face, and me (a.k.a. her servant) is holding her.

See? Dogs don't ask for much. They just want you to stop what you're doing and focus entirely on them. Hmmm, come to think of it, that sounds a bit like my husband...

About a Blog

I've been having a great time figuring out this whole blogging thing throughout the last few years and of course, my favorite aspect of it all is customizing. I have great respect and appreciation for the gals who design the layouts that we all use and admire. I have yet to give that a shot, but I have started doing my own banners. Given, they're nothing to write home about, but they just give my page a personal touch and darn it, I have fun doing it!

On that note, I just wanted to let you know that if you'd like me to do a simple one for your page (with or without your own picture(s)) just let me know! No cost, no obligation, just fun! I'm on my computer all the time anyway! So if you're interested, just leave me a comment and we can go from there!

To Post...and Post and Post

I've had several events nagging at me from my camera, so for the sake of efficiency (and my own sanity), here are 3 posts in one!

Being a good daughter for a good Oma (my mom, Eric's grandma), I took a picture of him and his new bike soon after we got it for him on her camera. So, ever since the day Eric got his first bike, May 4, 2009, my brain has been telling me that I did, in fact, take a picture of the occasion. Which is technically true. Unfortunately, it wasn't until the other day that I actually got a picture of him and his bike that is of any use to me!
This boy's legs are so long, he makes the bike look oddly small, but it's his first one and I didn't want him to be too far off the ground if/when he toppled off it. And he doesn't mind it at all. Eric can get on/off it very easily and I think it gives him a little more confidence. And he has been excelling at the whole "pedal-while-not-steering-into-the-side-of-the-house" concept, especially lately! I'm very proud of him!




This year has been a pretty exciting year for Eric, as it's been the first year he's really been able to understand and anticipate certain events. Like the 4th of July! We go to the parade in Buhl every year, and most of the floats/participants toss candy to the kids every year. Well, this year, he understood that they do that and that he can have whatever candy came his way! So, in the couple of days leading up to the parade, we made a trip to a craft store (coupon in hand) and he got to pick out a canvas bag and some patriotic decorations to carry his candy in. I did the iron-on letters but Eric did the rest! He loves anything hands-on/artsy, especially if he can actually use it or play with it after! I think he did a fantastic job and it worked perfectly--he filled it with candy and was showing everyone his handiwork.



And, for the finale, we have a couple of silly boys in a tub. Only, one of them isn't supposed to be in there! I had put Eric in the tub because he had been hot and sweaty and he also wasn't feeling the best. A bath is always a great, feel-good activity. So good, in fact, that Gus couldn't stand being left out.
Every time Eric has a bath, Gus is hanging over the side of the tub, trying to drink the water or lick the bubbles or love on Eric. Well, the fluffy bubbles proved to be too much a temptation for him and *plop!* in he went! Both my dogs love water, but Eric didn't love having Gus in there, so out he came, bubble beard and all! It was priceless!

Ice Creamed

After a couple disappointing evenings of hearing the blaring, cringe-inducing music of the ice cream truck but never actually seeing it, we finally got it stopped at our address!

I heard the music before Eric did, so I got some money and asked him what that noise was. His eyes lit up and a huge smile spread across his face as he asked me, "Can it come to our house this time?!" After seeing his hopeful little face for the 3rd time, I was praying that it would.

And sure enough, as we stepped out our front door to wait for it, it showed up! I ran back inside to grab my camera and Eric discussed the chilled choices with the driver!

SpiderMan ice cream?! That was one happy little boy! "Next time," Eric said, "I'm getting Batman!"

S.U.M.M.E.R.

S.unshine

U.ndress

M.agical

M.arvelous

E.ndless

R.elax

Insert whatever summer-esque words you prefer. You get the idea.

Udderly Surprised

Yes, that was a shameless pun, but I couldn't resist. About two months ago, I was invited to join a website called ProudToDairy.com. I was glad to accept the invite and once I logged in and started checking the site out, I realized I had joined just in time to participate in a t-shirt design contest that was being put on!

I absolutely love stuff like that and spent a couple days mulling over some ideas. If you know me at all, you know I tend to take the "humor route". It's way more fun. Any sort of sarcasm, play on words, etc.

When I got a little slogan stuck in my head, I sat down at my computer and just kinda made a corresponding image to bring it all together. It really isn't anything spectacular, but I think that may be part of the beauty of it. It was short, basic, literally black-and-white, and most of all, I believe most of the website members (or their families) could relate...with a chuckle and perhaps a roll of the eyes.

"these 4 are my 9-5"

And wouldn't you know it--I won! That just really made my day! I really getting a kick out of others being able to appreciate and connect with something I come up with. And what made the win even more fun is that the shirt is now an actual product and available to purchase (at 10% off during June for Dairy Month)! You can find them here.

The image above was featured in the Progressive Dairyman magazine along with a short article also featuring 3 very good honorable mentions. I had a blast with the whole process and wanted to share it with you!

Bedtime Snories...

Yes, that says "Snories". Between my two pugs and Levi, I've been going nuts! They are all sound asleep (emphasis on sound) while I lie awake feeling like a drugged crazy person! Levi has a history of snoring, but for the past while it's gotten worse and I'm not sure why. And ever since I thought I was doing a nice thing and bought a big new bed for my pugs, I've almost regretted it! It's big and soft and Gus thinks it's necessary to sprawl out completely upside-down (I will try to get a picture some time). That is his sole sleeping position. NOT good for his nasal passages! I don't know how he can sleep and breathe like that!

So, often I end up in the office where my bed is from before we were married. And I am able to sleep. But I'd rather stay in our bed where I'm already warm and cozy and cut out all the messing around!

Any suggestions or unused ear plugs? ;) And do they make Breathe-Rite strips for dogs (specifically dogs with minimal-to-no-nose?) Hahaha!

From My Back Door Lookin' Out

The other day, I was in my backyard, not doing anything in particular, when I just stopped and looked around. I absolutely love our backyard and I just soaked it in. Levi put so much work into that yard and landscaping and we enjoy it so much every single day. And it's very peaceful--when the neighborhood dogs decide to keep their yaps shut...

So, to give you an idea of what he's done and what I was appreciating, here's a small example of my view:

Levi and a couple of his buddies in the landscaping business cut and laid almost every one of those pavers by hand. Behind the house and right next to the patio furniture and gazebo is also a hot tub.

The grass looks great in this picture, but it doesn't do justice to my hanging baskets! The pink one on the left was from my sister and bro-in-law for Mom's Day! It's been a bloomin' machine! And the gigantic purple one on the right was from Levi for our anniversary. It's like flowers on steriods! I've never seen such an overflow! And of course Eric puts a smile on my face every time!

While we were splashing around in the kiddie pool with the pugs, Eric got the clever idea to push his stroller up against the side, take a seat in it, and dip his toes in the water! It must've looked really comfortable because a teeny, tiny ladybug stopped in for a visit. Boy, was it small! Eric just loved it, saying "He's my best friend!"

And leave it to Levi to bring another motorized recreational vehicle to our home! This is the littlest 4-wheeler we've ever seen! Levi got it from a man while picking up a junk car on his property. So, Eric got out his safety goggles and screwdrivers and helped get it "all fixed".

White-Water

Alright, I'm sick of looking at my scratched car! So onto a lighter subject: rafting!

One of my best friends in the whole world came to visit a couple weeks ago from Minnesota! Janelle (we share the name) and her husband Steve joined us on a rafting trip in Hagerman! Boy, talk about fun! We had a blast and the time went by way too quickly.

It was her and Levi's first time ever and they did awesome! And the really cool part is that each one of us got to "ride the bull" while going over the rapids! Woohoo! We also got to see tons of pelicans, a fox, and a lone deer!

Our guides were great and they got a good laugh out of all the sarcastic comments and b.s. flying around the raft that day!

Janelle squared.

Steve + Levi = Stevi

It was cold but so fun!

At the end of our trip!

A Thief In the Night

Unbeknownst (sp?) to me, my house was the popular place to be Thursday night. To make a long, miserable story shorter, someone made a lasting impression on my car. After they felt they had been thorough enough with my car, they selectively picked through Levi's tools, only taking a few expensive ones out of his toolbox. My purse, dvd player, keys, etc. inside my car were not touched. I thought that was very considerate of whomever it was.

These are only some of the spots that were keyed. They scratched every part of my vehicle: headlights, taillights, roof rack, brush guard, etc. Top to bottom. With the exception of my wheels, which I am very thankful for. The estimate came to over $9000.00. I had to take a minute and find my eyeballs after they had popped out of my head when I heard that.

And then, as if that wasn't enough, Sunday night rolled around and...

Levi got a rock through his back-glass, shattering it. Levi wasn't home when my car got it; he was home when his truck got hit. The cops were called and we've got a really good chance at convicting the ones who did it (we know who they are.) ;)