Friday, October 31, 2008

Happy Boo Day....

WOW...what a week. It's been a rough one...but I have managed to make it through....barely.


I am still wearing my glasses...and hating life....I am sure I'll get over that....some day.


I did get my hair done...and it is fabulous...even Bruce loves it....those of you who know about Bruce know that is a BIG DEAL....


I finished my halloween cards and did get them mostly in the mail....I have a few left to hand deliver....but what the heck....they are done.... The Halloween cards use the set Spooktacular from The Angel Company - I also used cuttlebug pumpkin harvest folder and Martha Stewart's Drippy Goo border punch...couldn't resist....


I made a bunch of bags filled with candy....made a ton of them actually, and they were well recieved and it was fun - and yes last minute...I finished them just before handing them out today....seriously...lol....the treat bags use the set Sweet Goodies from the Angel Company and on the back I used a label to close them and it said...You've been BOO'd! Happy Halloween from Chan....too fun!!!


ANYWAY....drug boy and I have had our ups and downs this week....I am hoping for a nice peaceful regrouping weeekend.....I'm gonna do a bit of retail therapy tonight and pick up some yummy soup for dinner and watch a movie....


Then....Saturday....workout with RICO and Heather....and go from there....


Anyways....enjoy!

Monday, October 27, 2008

Whirlwind of a weekend

WOW...I survived.

Friday was a normal busy day...Saturday started off - totally WEIRD...Lets just say RANDOM. Got a phone call from a tenant about a car that was blocking our driveway...What the French Toast! Seriously.

So after calling a tow company and then being told to call 911 non-emergency line then sifting through the phone tree I finally got a live person. Seriously....SO I reported the vehicle, gave the lic plate number and told them the address and that both airbags had been deployed...they said they would send someone out....wow....

I then finished doing what I needed to do and got ready to see RICO...Heather was gonna meet me there....made it down to the studio and got my butt handed to me...seriously....then I followed Heather to the Gluten Free Bakery in Maple Valley. Where everything was really really expensive....however, we did purchase a pumpkin bread mini loaf....okay....really?

We headed to Heather's where we proceeded to eat said Gluten Free Pumpkin Loaf....yeah...smelled really really good....taste...okay...texture....chalky....Robert laughed sooo hard at us....oh well...had to try it!

We then headed to Jessica's for a Pampered Chef cooking show. What a totally fun time. I am going to have a catalog party....so if you need any Pampered Chef just let me know...totally learned about my pizza stone since I bought it a year ago and have never taken it out of the box...seriously...ugh....so I'm all fired up to use it....then we headed back to Heathers for a bit...and then I was off to my next event....

After getting home, I got ready and make a salad for our fellowship potluck dinner and pumpkin carving extravaganza. I did not get a pumpkin. I am regretting it now...next time for sure. It was fun to watch the kids with the pumpkins. My camera is driving me crazy...my battery is not staying charged....so I've got another rechargeable battery pack coming....so no pictures to share...drat drat drat!

Anyways....we had yummy steak tacos and salad and such...then it was home for a nice rest of the evening....

Sunday was a full day.....I went to church and stayed after for a bit...trying to get sign ups for our scrappin event on the 22nd of November....Need to let MEME know about it....and then I headed to the office to do a bit of cleaning - we are getting new carpet and paint and I needed to do a bit of clean up...and it was easier to do it when know one was there...seriously!

Then off home I went. I showed the unfinished apartment to a gal....and then well that pretty much was Sunday....

Monday has been pretty good. I emptied a few drawers of my desk at work, and did a bit more of cleaning and organizing...its always good to just do it....and especially with the new paint and such it will look really nice.

Have a wonderful evening!

Thursday, October 23, 2008

So Happy It's Thursday Edition

Hello People!!
YEAH it's Thursday...and I carpooled today....yeah!!! Today has been much calmer, altho there have been meetings, and of course...Damon's show...but all in all it's been a great day!!

I decided to post the five remaining cards for you today....
This happy little daisy? is from the So Sweet set from The Angel Company...I used the flower bloom cuttlebug background and used the clear stardust which you can't see...happy card.
This next card I used the love peace hope cuttlebug background and the Trendy Holiday Tags from the Angel Company. When I got this cuttlebug background, I was afraid to use it, I didn't want to "cover up" the words...but I think this layout with the stamp works perfectly!

The next card uses the textile cuttlebug folder (awe cuttle love) and the Just Because set along with Treasure It both from the Angel Company - I have used this combo a couple of different times, but each time, I change it up a bit....love this card so much!!!
The next card is a card that dear Heather came up with for WAG...I had to just crack up....after she put it together she came over one day for lunch and was debating how to do the ornament...I love the final outcome!!! It uses the Joy of Christmas from the Angel Company and I lightly sprayed glacier glimmer mist on the dark green paper....love the effect!
And last but certainly not least....the Owl returns...from the Fall Fun set from The Angel Company minus the santa hat. I made this card first, but then added the hat to make the other card.
Hope everyone has enjoyed the last edition of cards.....I'll have to get better pictures...I've just been using my scanner as my camera is having issues....well really downloading has been an issue...hopefully I'll get it fixed soon!

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

What the?? Wednesday

WOWZERS....another crazy day in radio land...but fun. The sales people had their one-day fire sale...and that ended up being a lot of fun and a lot of extra work for me. Lucy had me keep track of all the orders for all the stations.....mega work....but good.

There was pizza a plenty around during lunch time....and then more dialing for dollars. At 3pm I headed into the studio to screen calls for Damon's show....no calls...oh well, there's always tomorrow...please call people....

Anyways....here are 3 more cards from this weekend....

The first card Ornamental Joy from The Angel Company uses a technique from WAG...it's an embossed resist with Walnut Inks - Cornflower....I also lightly sprayed some Glacier Glimmer Mist on the dark navy cardstock....I am loving that stuff....I know I know....Heather...you were right!!! The card is actually all blue...but apparently the scanner thought it looked purply.


The next card is a card inspired from Heather Scott using Sweet Goodies from the Angel Company....I changed it up a bit...and used a punched flower instead of a felt flower....and I stamped the circles on the back as well...gives it a different kind of feel....it was a hit on Saturday for sure!


And last but not least, is the Train Collage by the Angel Company. I borrowed the layout from a dear friend Jessica...hi Jessica! BUT I changed the papers....she had done the card in a trade last year sometime....the technique is spotlight brayering....and I just love how it looks....


Have a great rest of the day, I'm off to do a bit of shopping!

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Crazy Days

Tuesday...what a day...and it's not even over yet....as promised I will show you 3 more cards from this weekend.

Here's an oldie but a goodie..."Let It Snow" by the Angel Company....I think I have made over 250 cards using this image. I used it last year for a couple of classes, some christmas cards, and this year for my hostess club as well as I made 100 cards for Cards for the troops....I just love how you can just stamp it, nothing else is really needed, a little snowflake cuttlebug background and a touch of ribbon. It is a favorite....



The next is the Gerber Daisy another by the Angel Company - I used it for my WAG trade and yet by changing a few things....it totally changes the look. I believe this is one of the first stamps I ever purchased from the Angel Company from my now upline Char. Hi Char!!


And finally, the caterpillar from SO Sweet by the Angel Company....it's funny, my dear buddie Heather hates this set, and I got it not really sure when or why...but I did....so I challenged myself to make a card using it for WAG for our ATC (Artist Trading Card) and it turned out pretty cute....for this version, I used the Leafy branch cuttlebug embossing folder....and you probably can't see it, but I used the gelly roll clear stardust on the antena and eyelashes...
Anyways, today was day two of answering the phones as a call screener for one of our live radio shows....it's pretty fun we'll see how that goes...and there was a trip to Bellevue Art and Frame to purchase the gelly roll clear stardust pens....I got all the gals from worked hooked on them on Saturday so off I went to purchase 6 - 2packs....lol...it was crazy the guy thought I was cra-zy..lol...anyways....


peace





Monday, October 20, 2008

Let the craftiness begin

WOW...what a weekend!! I had 2 seperate outings if you will....card making wise. On Saturday the gals from work all got together at Miss G's condo in the clubhouse. I prepared 7 different cards and they did a stamp a stack...4 cards for $5.oo. What a fun day that was. While Laura, Miss G and Chris made cards, I helped Cindy make 32 of a holiday card and 8 sets of 8 notecards, in addition, she also put together an additional 8 cards from the stack....Wowzers....it was lots of fun.....

here is one of the cards from Saturday - right now it is my "new" favorite...I am sure it will be back again in some other project!!



Then on Sunday - my Everett Hostess Club got together....and we did 7 holiday cards. I showed them a couple of new techniques that were used on 3 of the cards....so after the techniques were done....they started making cards....I actually put together a set as well....as my dad didn't stay to stamp...he washed my car and changed the oil instead...so I gave him the set...fair trade right???? LOL...anyways....one of my new obsessions...is the marvy snowflake punches...I got the yellow and blue one.....In the card below, I punched the snowflake out of Kraft paper and then using the essential glue pad, attached glitter to it. All stamps, papers and inks are from the Angel Company. Contact me if you see something you like.


Enjoy!




Thursday, October 16, 2008

Library Pocket Obsession

About a month ago, Heather and I saw a really cut "dates to remember" book made out of library pockets. We really thought it was cute and wanted to make one. SO we emailed the gal and got really no help...so we hit up the good ole google and found library pockets in a package of 12 for like $4 each...then we found a quickutz revolution die on ebay and then a coluzzle template.


I ended up getting the ebay die (which I need to re-list) which when it arrived was way way too small....and then the coluzzle. I decided to make it and teach it to the gals from work at our September gathering....I did all the prep work and only charged $10 each. Really I should have charged $15 for all the prep I did....but none the less - it was fun....The sample I did, I used several different shades of paper....so I had planned on making myself a new one. Well....I didn't start it til the other day....to which a co-worker (What up "L"man) asked if he could purchase it to give to his boss for boss' day....yeah Lucy!! Anyways.....so here is the finished product. I still have to assemble mine....




All paper and stamps are from The Angel Company. The final picture is a snap shot of the acrylic box that I dressed up with a paper band, ribbon and buttons....I can't wait to make more of these bands.....Heather...we might have to order more boxes!!!



Enjoy!

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

HOPE


As you all are aware, it's October - Breast Cancer Awareness Month....


This card I am posting today, I made a month ago, for my trade card at WAG (Western Angel Gathering) it was inspired by a wonderful lady who found out that she has breast cancer. My father asked me to make her a card, and so I came up with this a take on a card by Heather Scott....and made not only her card, but a card for each of the attendees of WAG.


All images and supplies are from The Angel Company.


Enjoy! And remember...wear PINK proudly!


Monday, October 13, 2008

A FUN-TASTIC Weekend

WAHOO!!!
What a great weekend! I had a very crazy week dealing with some stuff at the apartment building and work...but heck what's new...lol....and I got ready for a fabulous day of crafting on Saturday.
I got up - and ready and left the apt by 7:10 - headed to Rico's got there about 8 - worked out...got my butt handed to me on a platter....and then some....had a fun time tho as always...lol...I think I told him I hated him and that he sucked to which he just laughed at me...go figure...lol...then I was off....
I headed to the office where I went to the building next door and took a shower and got ready...then off in the car again up to Mill Creek to meet my gals from my Everett Hostess Club. I got there by 11 and set up by 11:30...we had such a blast. MEME came to join the fun...yeah MEME!!!

We made two projects (a) a Holiday Planner and (b) a stationary set... and then just crafted..and laughed and had a great time.


I then headed up to the "rents" and showed Mom how to use her George Foreman grill...we had a great dinner....and then it was time to head home...

On Sunday off I was to church, then I did a bit of grocery shopping - then home...a little craft organizing and a little tv watching and just relaxing....

I've got lots of stuff - craft wise to work on this week...to get ready for this weekend...it will be fun for sure....

Happy Monday!!!


Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Random-ness

So today has been a typical day....reports, phones, invoices, recaps, counter displays etc...

I have been craving gluten tho...I want real fluffy bread....in th worst way....but let's carry on.

SO I called DIVA...and in the midst of our conversation....I say to her:

ME - Why won't TAR (The Annoying Renter) either die or move out.

DIVA - You must have been very bad...with don to deserve it

ME - Why yes I was very very very bad....and hummm I really don't regret it...

HA

SO my happy, crazy, sad memories....

Keeping Calm and Carrying On...

more later

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Is it October already????

WOW...where did the summer go? It was fast, furious, frustrating but definately FUN!

Major events that happened in no particular order....

survived Music Fest
survived WAG
survived RICO moving and only working out 1 time per week
surviving the fact that drug boy moved to freakin Chicago
saw my sweet grandma
my brother and his family visited from Miami
my uncle from Australia also stopped by
my stamping business has taken off and now I have monthly stamp club meetings yeah!
I cut my hair short
I've hung out with all my best buds, DIVA, MEME, Heather, Cynthia & Em and the DIVA Kitty!
Got a new property manager
the Canadian moved oh Canada....lol
I made a really cool Elvis wedding card....
got commissioned to make some cool 70th bday cards
got a new cool phone Instinct
and I'm going to Phantom tonight!!! Which is a long long story...ugh cliff notes...I was supposed to go opening night (I had free media tickets) BUT it was on Sept 11 - and I was to be in Salem...go figure...but by a wing and a prayer and lots of cash money...I'm going tonight!

AND for the record...I think I've only broke down into tears less than 6 times! Yeah me!!!

peace

Monday, June 16, 2008

Life after overtime

I ended up putting in 31 hours of overtime in the last two weeks...25 of it was from two weeks alone...but last Sunday...I was able to relax and get back into the swing of things.


This last week it was a breeze at work, I was covering the phones, had a bit of overtime, I did even manage to make a few cards...

This week was nice, relaxing, got a lot done, did a bit of shopping, bought a few items (craft of course) and well Friday I met up with MeMe for dinner at Applebee's...we had a fabulous chat and enjoyed dinner....

Saturday, I did a few errands and headed down to MV to see Heather and Chloe...we went and saw Kung Fu Panda, had a bit of dinner, crafted a bit and had a fabulous day...then it was Sunday, Father's Day...

I headed up to Alderwood, met the "rents" and we went to see Indy, went to Azteca for lunch, did a bit of shopping and had a nice relaxing day.

So here we are - it's Monday, and I'm all caught up on the bloggage... now that things seems to be slowing down a bit, hopefully, I'll update a little more often.

peace

Music Fest Part II


WOW...now here's the biggie...the Festival Feast Contest. TONS of prep for this one. It was a huge undertaking, but it is finally done, and delivered...it will be displayed in 75 QFC (Quality Food Center) stores in July.


I will take pictures of the displays and post at that time...however, here's just a small glimpse of what the project looked like once it was completed and in the delivery envelopes....This picture shows 3 bins...when all was said and done 9 bins were the end results...Oy vieh! NOW that's a lotta contesting materials!


When all was said and done, I used 17 1/2 rolls of double-sided paperbacked tape...36yrds per roll...tons of tape....I got me some tape!!


Music Festival

The Music Fest is fast approaching, and I have been getting all the contesting materials to our clients. The first contest, was for Sterling Savings Bank, it is the most easiest to prepare and send out. The contest is over now, but here is a picture that I took at the Issaquah location for my recap.

In the thick of it all...

WOW...it's already June 16th...wowza...so much to say so much to do and so much that has to be done.
Since I last checked in, lots has been going on....let's see where shall we begin, eh?

Hummm...that's a tough on...

The last weekend of May, my dad and I went to the opening of the Everett Farmer's Market. What a fun time we had....I have included some pictures of what we saw...


Some wonderful onions....


Yummy asaparagus

Random guy with his dogs, enjoying the market

Beautiful flowers.....so pretty and bright - full of color!!!

We had a "fun" roadtrip, Dad decided to show me Everett, he said, it's just your gas so why not...lol...silly pops!! I am sure we will be returning to the market soon.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Where did May go???

WOW...it's hard to believe that May has just flown right on by...so much has happened...I'll try and catch you all up - if that is possible....lol...I never know where to start at the beginning or the end...so I'll just go with what I remember...

Let's see since I last checked in...I took my blood test/kidney test and I just had a week to wait for the results....I met up with RICO for a bit of clam chowder and a little live jazz music...okay it was pouring...but it was fun AND HE LOST A BET...he hasn't paid up yet, but there will be pictures for sure!

Prior to seeing RICO I headed to Heather's house and had a fun time with her and Chloe...yeah!!!

I got my test results....and they stayed the same...yeah!!! Moving in the right track...now just to start going lower.

After my dr's apt, I went to my fav art supply store and found this...now mind you - I love paper...so I had to buy this...



I then headed to T-town where I took a jewelry class...we made soldered pendants. I have wanted to do this for such a long time....so glad I was able to take the class...and it was such a relief to finally do it...I've had the kit for a couple of years....flash back...mad scientist was supposed to show me...go figure...lol...anyways it was a lot of fun!!


Although one of the glass sides cracked...it was a success. I can't wait to make more of these.

Later that week - I took a couple of more classes...this time coloring with prismacolor pencils. Heather and I took these two classes by Terry Medaris...amazing...he's got some mad skillz. We had a lot of fun...here's what we did....the first one...blending, the second blending and shading...I want to take more classes...



Since I last checked in I have seen a couple of movies....Made of Honor...Iron Man...and What Happens In Vegas.

I've had a bunch of drama at the apartment building...but all is settled down now...and I had a relaxing long weekend with drugboy...we had fun on Friday and Monday...I hung out with Heather and the gals and did a bit of stamping on Saturday and well...the normal on Sunday...

Wednesday - I'll be getting my butt kicked by RICO finally...the nonsense of Mono and my sinus cold are gone....and it's gonna be extra early at 5 freakin AM...what the???

peace

Tuesday, May 06, 2008

Poor RICO

So RICO has Mono...and because of my weakened immune system and diabetic state, I can't workout with him until May 19th. WHAT THE?

UGH....so no sweating, kissing, sharing of water....ugh...with RICO...drat, I hate when that happens!!!

It is sooo strange to be without him. I have however, been doing my thing at home...but it's been a slow haul with my blood test approaching....as soon as that is done, then I'm hitting it Hardkore...Imperial Pride!!!

Can't stop...
Won't stop!

Opening Day of Boating Season






WOW...what a fun day/event. Even tho the weather was icky...it was a blast. Heather came with me and helped me bag and hand out champagne flutes.


We had amazing BBQ from Bill's Bodacious BBQ in Renton, yummy. Here's some pictures.

Another card

Here is a baby thank you card I made for a gal at work who is having a baby boy. I will be making more of these for another gal who is having a baby girl later this month...enjoy!







A little "golden nugget"

So I was working late as I had been on the phones for most of the week....and I was listening to our sister station movin 92.5 and the afternoon gal Mason was talking about a website you should check out when you start dating a new guy. It's call dontdatehimgirl.com. SO I was waiting for something to print...and decided what the heck....

so
I
logged
on
and
typed
in
my
ex's
name

and hit search...

bahhawwahhahahhahahha

it came up...with a picture even....

I laughed all the way from work to home....never stopping...

The only draw back, I wished this website had been around so many years ago....

Forgotten Secretaries Day

SO....usually my co-workers totally spoil me for Secretaries week...flowers, gifts, lunch - etc.

NOT SO MUCH THIS YEAR.....what the???

Anyways...they totally forgot until the Monday after. What?

Yes, I did however, find this most humorous - why you ask? Well we had a banner ad on our company website advertising for secretaries day/week for 3 weeks prior...and one of my sales guys SOLD the banner to his client....a florist....

Anyways.....the following Monday, they realized they forgot - so we all went out for Sushi lunch...

Scrappin Friendzy

WOW...I can't believe I've actually been to 4 of them and still haven't taken any pictures...what??? Anyways...it was a fun filled day...lots of people, lots of classes, lots of make-n-takes.

Here is the make-n-take I had at my table....

Live Jazz and Golfing...



Druids Glen, Saturday, the day after my bday we (radio station) were kicking off a live music series...Jazz on the Green...so I rounded up the peeps and headed out there with Taylor.

It was such an amazing day....so pretty....

RICO and Mai, Heather and Robert showed up around 7ish and hung out while the music was playing (Michael Powers was performing) and it was such a nice relaxing time....hanging out with my peeps...listening to music and looking out at Mt. Rainier...It will definately be something that we do again...

Brunch with Diva and a massage

On Saturday, I met up with DIVA in Issy and we went to Fin's Cafe (I think) it was amazing...brunch was sooo yummy....we then went to go do a little shopping at Linens and Things - DIVA needed a new comforter cover...as the purple one shows DIVA KITTY white hairs...bad kitty! LOL....

Anyways....while we were there, we happened upon the massager attachment that you place onto your chair.....life will never be the same....lol

We had such a great time!!!

My official bday

I ended up taking the day off and just celebrating my birthday....I did however, get up and work out with RICO at what 5:30...no rest for me...lol....however, I did come home and take a nap. Drugboy was gonna take me to lunch...so I slept for a while and then got all ready. We went to the Library Cafe for a late breakfast....it was soooo yummy....then he told me he had the rest of the day off....so we just drove around...and hung out....no worries of work...it was really really nice.

Babies - Baptism - Babies

April saw the baptism of two very near and dear to me baby boys...Asher and Willem. I was given the task of sitting up front and taking pictures at both events.

After each baptism...we headed to their respective homes for a nice family/friend get together luncheon.

MEME attended the baptism and luncheon for young Asher.

As time goes by, it is so refreshing to realize what amazing friends and people I have in my life...and how precious life is. I can't wait to see how these two turn out....fabulous of course!

Dinner and a Movie Bday Style

I met up with Heather to go out for my bday a few days early. BOY was a movie and dinner needed. We went and say Nimi's Island...very cute and lighthearted - definiately needed that. We split a small popcorn and just relaxed....afterwards, we headed to Applebee's for a little dinner off the weight watchers menu...YUMM-O!

Heather totally spoiled me with crafting supplies - a GIGA Oval Scalloped Punch and a script cuttlebug folder....YEAH!!!

TOTALLY FUN....

Ya Sure Ya Betcha


I attended my first Norwegian Heritage Day Festival at the Leif Erickson Hall. It was totally not what I expected, but I was definitely glad I went. The Hall is just across the street, about a block away. I took a picture of the Men's Norwegian Choir and of course the namesake of the hall, Leif Erickson. While I was there, I ran into a former co-worker - Tim Hunter...who knew he would be there mc'ing the event. Lots of fun in the neighborhood.

I Know...it's been forever and a day or two

Since my last post. So many things have happened since April 1st....

Let's see if I can recap...

My birthday
tons of work
Dinner and a movie bday style
trying to rent an available apartment
Babies - Baptism - Babies
Several trips out to lunch to celebrate said birthday
Live Jazz Music outing
Brunch celebrating said birthday with DIVA including massage
Scrappin' Friendzy
Missed Secretaries Day/Week
Free cool bag
Sushi lunch to make up for forgotten Secretaries Day/Week
Getting ready for Music Fest Contesting
Lots of work
covering the phones during said Lots of Work
Babies - Baptism - Babies
Baby shower...
Answering the phones way too much
Opening Day of Boating Argosy Cruise
Delivering orders from said Scrappin Friendzy
Oh and did I mention RICO has MONO??? WHAT??

SO I will try to tell JUST THE GOOD STORIES....and upload some pictures...and some cards...

Tuesday, April 01, 2008

HELLO PEOPLE...

The previous post - Adios Rico - was my attempt at an April Fool's joke. Whew....who knew RICO had such a large following. Since posting...I've gotten several angry emails and a call or two.

I'm sure I'll be paying for this joke in the am when I see RICO - for sure....

peace out...

Adios Rico? What, are you kidding me?

WOW....what a morning it has been. I received a call at oh dark thirty this morning from the Ultimate Trainer. He wants me back, and he made me an offer that I couldn't refuse. 5 days a week for FREE - he needs a spokes person...and apparently I am just the gal for that.

I did think about it long and hard. Rico is soooo amazing. RICO is just RICO...RICO kicks my butt and I thank him for it and ask for more. He's been there through all the freakiness with my knees, blood sugar, kidneys I feel horrible about my decision....but really it comes down to cash money. Right now life is tight. And freeing up the money would be a huge relief in so many ways. I could actually think about moving and not having to be the apartment manager anymore...I could potentially get a kitty kat or a crinkle doggie...two things that I really really want. I wouldn't have to skimp on my trip to Hawaii...crafting, classes...so many many things could open back up to me. I am sooo torn. But I have to think about the future.

OH how do I tell Rico???

Friday, March 28, 2008

Aloha Friday - Hawaiian Shirt Edition

In preparation for my trip to Oahu and Maui, I thought it might be fun to get a couple of Hawaiian shirts to have to wear before going - on Fridays...to celebrate Aloha Fridays and get in the spirit of the trip and also take on my trip. I came across this website that not only sells fabulous Hawaiian shirts, but they also have a line of "plus sizes" And if you know me....I did a beeline right to the purple one.

The company that I found is called Wave Shoppe, check out their website. One thing that really made me like this company right away was how they designed their plus size women's shirts. You can read the story here.
SO happy Aloha Friday. It is snowing here...I can't wait to feel the warm sun on my face...December can't get here fast enough!
Mahalo

Movie Review

I did attempt to watch a movie this week, however I ended up turning the movie off? What? Are you kidding me? I actually turned a movie off. THAT NEVER HAPPENS.

I tried to watch Shrek the Third...and made it about a half hour into it. It was not even really funny to me...now don't get me wrong, I loved Shrek and Shrek Two...so not too sure why - I will give it another try and I do have some movies waiting for me to watch when I get home.

peace

Officially I’m a sleeper-iner

What a week it has been…with the tragedy of the Alaska Ranger…all the memories, being UBER busy at work and seminars…I slept in. Waking only upon RICO’s ring tone…Hey Now You’re An All-Star by Smashmouth. WOW…a first for everything, I ended up being about 10 minutes late, and we work a bit longer to make up for it. HE had me hit the NEW old treadmill that he just got...lol....showed him I've been hitting my own treadmill..lol..we had a great workout as usual...however he kept teasing me that I was a sleeper-iner.

Overall the week has been great – a lot has been accomplished. Life is good. It’s good to be alive. The weather has been very wintry.
I’ve rocked it at work…I just love when that happens. Not too many exciting things otherwise have been happening…which is good. Things will be starting to HEAT up soon. With the upcoming scrapbooking events, Jazz on the Green evenings, the Golf Tourney, Jazz Fest, WAG and my birthday….looks like April – September will be buzy. BUT that’s the way I like it. And before I know it, I’ll be heading to HAWAII!

Anyways....more later....till then...KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON!

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Hippity Hoppity Happy Easter


Hope everyone had a joyous Easter holiday, I certainly did. This is the criss cross card that I made and sent out.


My weekend started with Friday...met MeMe for lunch at Applebee's - yeah trade! We had a good lunch and chat...then back to work, we got out of work a bit early...okay 30 minutes early...which was nice. The traffic was light...crazy eh? I got home and then left to go to Good Friday service, it was really nice. I met the boy for dinner afterwards...it was funny we went to Shari's...we had fun, and a bunch of laughs. Saturday - time for a little road trip. Joe thought it would be nice if we went for a drive. Hummmm.....so he picked me up around 9 and we hit the road. He was pretty prepared - he had lots of goodies - healthy goodies. Bottled waters, fresh fruit, carrots, peanuts and a few luna bars for me. I was really touched that he took the time to think of all that. So off we went.


We ended up not too far from home. He took me to Golden Gardens. I started to laugh when we got there - I mean really - a 10 minute road trip? He said he had picked that as our destination because I had told him, that I loved going there, and whenever I have something that I need to think about, I go down there, walk on the beach and just think. And he wanted to share that with me. He's never been to Golden Gardens, so it was new to him, and it was nice to share it with him. He even brought a picnic lunch for us to enjoy.


We walked out and around to the point and sat and just talked. He even brought blankets as it was a bit cool and even a thermos of caffine free hot tea. *swoon* He told me he hoped I liked his surprise...he also said that no matter what we do - big or small - it will always be new and special and ours.


When we got back to my place, he said let's go check out the new coffee place. So we walked down there and enjoyed a little treat and just sat, listened to music and just enjoyed the relaxing day.


Sunday....wow...came way too quickly. I headed to church and then up to the "Rents" - we had turkey dinner....yeah stuffing! We had a nice day...just catching up....the food was good, conversation fantastic....mom is doing sooo much better...it's hard to believe it's almost been a year since her accident...she's come so far...I'm soo proud of her...and Dad's just been a hero...totally stepping up and then some. I headed to church again after dinner...it was different, smaller crowd, different approach - challengeing...and inspiring. I got home and got ready for work...and then the news came on....The F/T Alaska Ranger sank, 4 crew were dead. Capt. Pete...dead...omg....I just started to cry...so many emotions came rushing in....

Friday, March 21, 2008

Aloha Friday

Well today is Friday - thank goodness for that. It's been a crazy week. But, I made it.
This week's edition of Aloha Friday is an adventure I plan on doing in Oahu. I will be going to Hanauma Bay to go snorkeling.
So enjoy!




Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Tuesday Movie Review on a Wednesday….

WOW…since it’s late I'll keep it short....

It seems I’m stuck on Nick Cage….oh gee darn - I hate when that happens!!!

Face Off - Starring Nicholas Cage and John Travolta and a few other good actors/actresses.

Movie is based on good and evil. Nicholas Cage is the evil Castor Troy and John Travolta is the good Sean Archer. This movie is the typical good cop after the evil criminal. I have seen this movie several times…and often quote a lot of lines from it. I love how wickedly evil Nicholas Cage is and how when Castor and Sean trade lives, how each actor pulls it off. There is lots of action and shoot em up scenes.

Overall Rating =10
Entertainment Value = 10+
Nicholas Cage Hotness = 10+
Rental? ABSOLUTELY – if it’s on sale BUY IT!

One of my favorite lines from this movie is… It’s like looking in a mirror, only Not.

Manic Monday

All I have to say is this….

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON



I had a great workout with Rico. I gave him his bday present…and he liked it (I hope) and he told me all about his birthday. I told him about the weekend…a little chit chat before sweating…ugh. I did carpool with B – he forgot me….and I had to call and remind him. We did get to work, it was fun pooling….it had been way too long since the last time!
I am glad we pooled, when I got home and upstairs after work, I turned off everything, and sat in the dark for 20 minutes…and then proceeded with the evening.
peace

Weekend Wrap Up

WOW….things have been BUS-ZY…eeeks! Okay so it’s Wednesday, but here’s the weekend wrap up!

Friday…a trip to good ole Sam’s club. Yummy Strawberries and Pineapple were purchased…got home, lugged everything upstairs…and got ready for Heather’s the next morning. Got up and made the infamous fruit salad. Yeah me, got to Heather’s in the nick of time…and then we headed off to Becca’s! Annissa was with us…so to say the least the short roadtrip to Becca’s was full of laughs!

We had a great, fun and productive day working on our Brayer Technique Books, I think everyone finished. Yeah us!

I headed home, and stopped to pick up some ground turkey for Sunday’s Taco Bar potluck. I stopped at Ballard Camera to meet with the gals about teaching classes. I got a bunch of cool products to work with. SO the plan is to figure out what to make with it, come in this Saturday to shop for papers etc, and then start making…and turn in stuff so they can announce at Scrappin’ Friendzy….wowza…it’s gonna get sketchy…lol.

I finally got home and got ready for my date with Joe…aka the drug boy. Yeah drug boy…lol…we went to a nice little new haunt in Ballard. Lots of fun, good food, and not too crowded. After dinner, he came over and helped me okay more like watched and razzed me while I was making the turkey taco meat for Sunday.

Sunday came way too fast. Yikes, I was no sooner up, and out the door to make it to church on time. Got there, and saw everyone…the service was nice and then we waited afterwards til it was time to head to Ken and Carla’s. I had a blast chatting with my buddy Aaron. He would jump up onto my lap, kneel, wrap his arms around my neck and tell me “I’ve got a new bed” “It’s blue” lol. We had a fabulous time enjoying tacos and catching up…I hated to leave and go home.

But home, I had to go. I got home and pretty much relaxed, chatted with Joe and then got ready for Monday. And Phone Duty….what a week it has been.

Friday, March 14, 2008

Aloha Friday

When I think about Hawaii, the first thing that pops into my mind is the Hawaiian lei. I did a search and found this website http://www.hawaiianleicompany.com/default.aspx. I of course had to check it out and found the following information about the tradition. I hope you enjoy it!

This is a lei that I am considering purchasing and sending as a Christmas Gift to share the islands while I am there in December.

The Aloha Tradition
While a few ancient Hawaiian customs have faded from memory, the tradition of lei-giving has managed to subsist and flourish. In the beautiful islands of Hawaii, everyone wears leis. A lei is a common symbol of love, friendship, celebration, honor, or greeting. In other words, it is a symbol of Aloha. Take a walk around Hawaii; you’ll find leis everywhere—graduations, parties, dances, weddings, and yes, even at the office. In Hawaii, any occasion can be considered special and “lei-worthy.” No one can resist the vibrant colors, the intoxicating fragrances, or the beautiful tradition of Hawaii’s most recognized icon…the flower lei.
The History of the Lei - The custom of the flower lei was introduced to Hawaii from the various surrounding Polynesian islands and even Asia. In ancient Hawaii, wearing a lei represented wealth, royalty, and rank. Leis were also heavily associated with hula, religion and geography.
Most Hawaiians preferred the Maile lei--a leafy vine that has fragrant spicy-sweet leaves that is draped and worn open-ended to the waist. However, royalty and Hawaiian chieftains favored the fiery, vibrant Ilima—a thin orange blossom that requires hundreds of flowers to make a single lei strand. Hawaiian Princess Kaiulani’s favorite lei was the Pikake—named after the peacocks in her garden—for the heavenly white blossoms and sweet jasmine fragrance.
The state of Hawaii is consists of eight major islands. Each island has its own designated lei which represents a harmonious marriage of texture and color. Most of these leis are unavailable for shipping to the mainland due to strict agricultural laws.
Hawaii – Lehua
Oahu – Ilima
Maui – Lokelani
Kauai – Mokihana
Molokai – Kukui
Lanai – Kaunaoa
Niihau – Pupu
Kaho’olawe – Hinahina
Before the familiar hum of airline jets were heard in the sky, tourist and travelers arrived in Hawaii by boat. Many old Hawaiians retell their stories of “boat days” with fond memories. When the boat would arrive at the dock, it was a social celebration with lei greeters, hula dancers, music, and photographers. A common custom for departing travelers was to toss their leis into the ocean by Diamond Head Crater. A safe return to Hawaii was ensured if their lei drifted to shore.
Since May 1, 1928, Hawaii has celebrated every May first as it’s official “Lei Day.” Hawaiians call it “May Day.” The flower lei is celebrated passionately on May Day with Hula, parades, and music. On May Day, most parents request to take a day off of work so they can watch their children participate in May Day festivities and programs at school. Everyone in Hawaii is encouraged to wear a lei on May Day.
Lei Etiquette - Leis can be worn, received, or given for almost any occasion. In Hawaii, a lei is given for an office promotion, a birthday, an anniversary, a graduation, or any special event. Yet more notably, a lei can be worn for no other reason than to enjoy the fragrance, take pleasure in the beautiful flowers, or simply, to celebrate the “Aloha Spirit.”

There is one big faux pas that should never be made. Never refuse a lei! Always graciously accept the lei with a toothy smile and a kiss on the cheek. (If you don’t feel comfortable with giving or receiving a kiss on the cheek, a warm hug is acceptable!) If you are allergic or sensitive to flowers, then discreetly and apologetically slip-off the lei. It is acceptable and considered a kind gesture to offer the lei to your spouse if you are unable to wear it.
Last, but not least, there is one more taboo…it is considered (in Hawaii) impolite to give a closed (tied) lei to a pregnant woman. Many Hawaiians feel that a closed lei around the neck is bad luck for the unborn child. (Head Hakus and open-ended leis are acceptable to give to pregnant woman.)
I think I'll sport a lei for May Day!