We're all looking for a happy ending

Go ahead, call me a LOSER!

2011-09-06T00:03:00.003-04:00

I don't have a lot to share, not a lot happened this week...except that I actually WORKED for the first time since June. I worked at the Indiana County Fair selling tickets Monday through Saturday. It was an interesting week, watching strange people (I sent Bobby a couple of pictures and we played "Male or Female?" while I was sitting in my booth), seeing people from High School who I haven't seen in years, and sweating...lots and lots of sweating. It was so hot this week!

Today began our family's Biggest Loser competition. We all weighed in this evening - there are 11 of us doing it. We each paid $10 to join, and then each week, everyone except the biggest loser of that week pays $1 to continue participating. We've also agreed that if we gain any weight instead of losing it, that we have to pay $1 per pound gained. Weigh-ins are every Sunday, leading up to the week of Thanksgiving. I'm glad that we've decided to do this again, because I need to get my butt back into some shape other than "round."

This coming week, I'll be doing some crafting/jewelry making and hoping for a phone call from school so I can start subbing again. Look for photos of my craft projects, and maybe some of our new home, which I'm finally getting decorated. I'm going to listen to the rain, edit some photos, then head to bed.

To blog...or not to blog...

2011-08-25T23:24:00.007-04:00

Obviously, I've been gone a long time. I haven't had much to write about, life has been busy, but nothing that's different from any other person's life.
Weddings, showers, everyone having kids, school, work, summer...there ya go. That sums up the past 8 months I've been MIA.

I have been chewing on this the past few weeks...trying to decide if this was what I wanted to write about when I made my return to my blog. Is it going to bite me in the butt? Will I get a little bit of backlash from others...who cares. So, here goes everything...

My last post was in January and I had talked about doing some photography and supplementing my income that way. I haven't done much photography that has put money in the bank, but I have taken a TON of photos in recent months that enough people have said "You should start a business." Yeah...why not? I should just book up my calendar and start taking photos all the time and make a butt-load of money. Great idea! Awesome! right?

WRONG!

Have you noticed how EVERYBODY and their BROTHER is starting a photography business lately. That may be because they took a couple of nice photos and someone said to them "You should start a business" and they did. So, you got an expensive DSLR camera for Christmas, your birthday, anniversary, whatever...and you think you're a professional now, right?? Sure not! Just because you have this fancy camera and it has the capability to do super awesome things means you need to be a professional photographer. Let me think about that... Hmm, nope.

If everyone with a DSLR was an awesome photographer, there would be no photography industry. No one would be able to create a business, even if they were the best at what they did. Because there would be so much competition it wouldn't be worth it. They'd lose business left and right and never make a profit.

You have to have an "eye" for the art of photography, have your own style, be able to think on your feet, make your client comfortable and happy and actually know how your camera works. It's not just pointing the camera and pushing a button. You also need to continually evaluate your work, come up with fresh ideas, and be original with the images you're capturing.
And, all of the post editing in the world can't make up for a bad picture. People want GREAT images that have feeling and emotion. I don't want to look at a photo of a kid in their sports uniform sitting on a bridge. I don't get the feeling you're trying to convey...All I'm thinking is LAME! (sorry if you don't like my opinion)

What's my point? Well, I want to be good at what I do. I told Bobby today that all of this work that I'm doing now, taking photos for friends and family, not starting this business right now...it will help me out eventually, I hope. It will help me to build a portfolio, a small client base, and get a ton of experience that I need. The people who are awesome at what they do, have businesses and get paid, like photogs Michael Henninger, Jen McKen Photography, and Teri Enciso have YEARS of experience. (Make sure you check their work out, btw, you won't be disappointed)

Remember, I'm not trying to offend anyone, and to my friends who have suggested that I start a photography business, I hope this explains to you why I haven't done so.

Aaaannnnddd....end rant.

Oh...don't forget to leave me a comment. I'd love to know your feelings on this subject.

A fresh start...

2011-01-09T15:14:00.003-05:00

Hello world, it's me again! I know it's been a long time since I've posted anything (just 12 days short of a year), but I thought maybe I'd start writing again. I've been busy, as I'm sure everyone is these days, and maybe just a bit too lazy to write anything. Or maybe it's just that I didn't have anything interesting to say.

At lot has happened since last January, but I don't really feel the need to recap all of it. If you know me, you know what we've been through this year.

I'm hoping that 2011 is the best year we've had in a long time. It can't be any worse than 2009 or 2010, or at least I hope so. My life is taking a new direction, with some new businesses developing. My jewelry is really taking off - I did a ton of business for Christmas and finally did my first craft show in November. I also sold a ton of my photo-names for Christmas - I think it was 24 total, and I have another one to do this month. I've also been asked to take some family portraits and maternity photos for family and friends. I'm not advertising the photography thing, really...I'm doing it more or less for the practice and hoping that eventually I will be able to make some money doing something I love.

On New Year's Eve, I took family photos for our cousin Jen, and I'm really happy with the way they turned out. They were really informal and outdoors, which is exactly what she wanted. These are some of my favorite photos from that day. They're such a cute family and their little guy has the bluest eyes! He was a little cranky, but we did what we could to keep him happy. Like I said, I'm just starting out, but I think these turned out pretty well, your constructive criticism is welcome, but please be nice. I'm hoping to do some maternity photos for my sister-in-law in the next month or so, but she hasn't given me an answer yet.

I'm considering attempting to do a 365 project, but I haven't made my final decision. Maybe I'll start it in February, we'll see.

That's it for now! I'm off to shower and head to the store for a few essentials! Take care

Your senses are really something...

2010-01-21T16:48:00.002-05:00

Today while I was driving home from school through little Clymer, PA, I smelled a fantastic smell! Someone was burning their wood fire place. I love that smell. It makes me all warm and fuzzy inside to smell it. Except for today...my brain went down a different path when I smelled that fire place. And well, you know how smells can trigger memories...

For whatever reason, the smell made me start to think about one of the last times I saw my dad. Back story: We were at my mom's and it was a beautiful sunny day sometime this past May. It wasn't the last time I saw him, but probably the time before that. Bobby and I went to the house to go swimming and my Aunt Karen and cousin Nova came to swim with us. We all swam and played in the pool and had lunch. We had brought some snacky things and a salad that I made for work the day before (for Memorial Day). Dad grilled some burgers and hot dogs and then he made some baked beans.
Well...that's what the fireplace smell reminded me of. The baked beans. The stupid, stupid, stupid baked beans. They were the WORST baked beans EVER!

Dad cooked a whole pound of ground beef then added a can of Bush's Maple and Bacon baked beans. If he had left them just like that, they would have been great. But no, Dad always had to "doctor things up." So, he tasted it and thought it needed something else, so he added some chocolate syrup (gross, I know). He still didn't like the way it was tasting so he added more things like ketchup and mustard, and finally he added MORE Maple Syrup. OhhhhhMG they were TERRIBLE! Normally, I don't eat baked beans...but because he worked so hard to make them, I had to try them. I did add some of the chopped onions that were meant for the hot dogs and more mustard..but nothing worked. They were just too sweet. Dad couldn't finish eating his and neither did anyone else...and yes, we all tried them. He took the bowl up to the fire pit and dumped them in an empty box from the cans of Miller Lite we were all drinking while we all laughed. He never burnt the box...he never had a chance.....so yes...the stupid baked beans made me cry today.
A month and a half later, Mom, Ben and I were burning things in the fire pit and there was the stupid box filled with the baked beans. Some of them were eaten, but not many...apparently the animals were pretty disgusted, too! Of course, I cried that day too.

Isn't it weird how certain smells can make you think of crazy things like that?? They trigger memories that get buried in our minds. As soon as the memory of the baked beans came to mind, the song Free Fallin' by Tom Petty came on the radio and that just made it worst. I cried the whole way home.

So today, this Daddy's girl is really missing her daddy.

Breakfast recipe

2010-01-17T14:25:00.002-05:00

I just stumbled upon this recipe while looking for something to have with dinner tonight.

Crockpot Breakfast

32 oz frozen hash browns
1 lb cooked ham cubed ( lean )
1 onion diced
1 green pepper diced
1 1/2 c shredded cheese ( Regular Cheese )
12 eggs
1 c skim milk
1 t salt
1 t black pepper

Divide potatoes, ham, veggies and cheese so you can create several layers of each in the crock pot. Start with the hash browns, then ham, onions peppers and last cheese. Repeat until you have several layers. Beat eggs, milk salt & pepper pour over layers in the crockpot cover and turn on low. Cook for 10-12 hours overnight.

This would be great for Christmas morning. My mother-in-law always makes some sort of breakfast casserole for breakfast on Christmas day, I think this would be something a little easier for her...or maybe I'll make it this year!

Sunday...no fun today :(

2010-01-17T13:14:00.004-05:00

I'm still working on yesterday's to-do list. It's no fun doing all this work on my day off. Blah.
There was quite a bit of stuff on the list that I didn't get finished, and I didn't have anything planned for today, so I'm going to try to get it all done!

I put dinner in the Crockpot around noon. It's smelling so good already! The recipe is from that blog I wrote about last weekend A Year of Slow Cooking. Tonight we're having Bacon and Cheese Chicken. The sauce that gets poured over it is a combination of Ranch dressing and Teriyaki sauce. It sounds like such a strange combination, but I tried it when I mixed it up and it's actually pretty good! I didn't have any actual Teriyaki sauce, but I had a teriyaki marinade and it's just about the same thing. It'll be ready around 6:30. I can't wait! I think I'm going to make some white rice with it. I love rice...but Bobby doesn't like it so much. Oh well, we all have to do things we don't want to sometimes, so I'm hoping he'll eat it for me.

Bobby just took down the Christmas lights...in the rain. Silly I know, but it was his idea! I can cross that off my list now, too!

I'm going to bring the totes up for the ornaments and get started with the tree. UGH. The house is going to look so bare without the decorations. At least I'll still have my snowmen :)

Off I go!!

So much to do...

2010-01-16T14:54:00.004-05:00

But all I want to do today is sit around! I made a to-do list at school yesterday that was pretty lengthy. I was hoping to get quite a few things done when I got home from school. We had plans to go Cosmic Bowling last night, so I had 6 hours to get everything done.

I got maybe 3 things finished. Ha ha. But, I've been working on it today, and I'm getting somewhere!

Here's the list.
FRIDAY
*~~Run to the bank to make deposit~~
*~~Go to car wash~~
*~~Laundry - wash and put away(I only do my clothes, which is about 2 loads per week. Bobby's work clothes are filthy and I refuse to wash them with my clothes)~~
*~~Finish loading dishwasher, run and unload~~
*~~Wash all other dishes by hand~~
*~~Clean out refrigerator~~
*~~Clean up the rest of the kitchen~~
*~~Put away outdoor Christmas Lights~~

SATURDAY
*~~Undecorate Christmas Tree~~
*Put tree away
*~~Put away "Christmas" decorations. I'm going to keep my snowmen and greenery out...no more trees or Santas, though.~~
*Dust and Vacuum
*~~Move basement refrigerator~~ I did this on my own while Bobby was taking a nap. We went Cosmic Bowling Friday night, and he had to get get up at 7 on Saturday to work. When he came home from work he took a nap and I really wanted to get the basement started, so I moved it myself.
*~~Hook up basement TV, Wii~~ and DVD player - we need some A/V cords to hook up the DVD player
*Organize basement storage areas...my seasonal decorations are EVERYWHERE! It's driving me crazy!

I guess I better get back to work! We're going to Donatello's for dinner with friends tonight! I can't wait! Have a great day!

A new discovery

2010-01-10T17:03:00.004-05:00

This week I found a new blog and I am in love. It's silly to be in love with something like a blog, but this one makes my life easier, so how can I not love it.
May I introduce you to A YEAR OF SLOW COOKING. This woman, Stephanie O'Dea, dedicated 365 days of her life to finding a way to use her crockpot at home. She made something different in it EVERY DAY for a YEAR, deserts, appetizers, dinners, deserts, breakfasts, playdough, crayons, candles...you name it!! And well, she also wrote this book and was on Rachel Ray, too! After I spent about ~~an hour~~ two hours looking through all of her (indexed in alphabetical order) recipes on Friday night (I know, I have a really exciting life), I found one that I had EVERYTHING in my house to make!

I made this deliciousness in a bowl:PIZZA SOUP
I mostly followed Stephanie's recipe when I made it this time, except that instead of baby tomatoes I used the two small tomatoes that I had in the fridge from Taco night, I omitted the mushrooms (because I HATE cooked mushrooms), and added a little bit more of the italian sausage (because I had 3 left, and the recipe only called for 2). Bobby just put the rest of the box of bowties that I had in the pantry...which was probably twice as much as the recipe called for. I didn't have any mozzerella, so I garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese, which was even better!!

Bobby and I really enjoyed it, though I think it had WAY too much pepperoni in it and needed even more pasta. My cousin Rachel, (who came to spend the night and went shopping with me and made me smile) liked it, but thought it was too spicy...must've been all the pepperoni. We all agreed that it was a little too greasy though...again, I think it was the pepperoni.

The next time I make it, I'll change it up just a little bit to make everyone happy. Less pepperoni for sure...the recipe calls for a whole cup, but I'd probably use only half a cup, and lots more pasta. Stephanie suggests 1/3 to 1/2 cup pasta...but I'm pretty sure Bobby said there was about 1 1/2 cups of pasta left in the box. I still think it needed more. Bobby said that adding some chicken to this would be good, too! This is definitely something that will be added to the menu again. It's a great winter soup, and my hubby actually ate vegetables! I'm so proud of him:) Your family and friends will probably enjoy this very much...especially if they like pizza, I suggest trying it! It didn't take very long to do all the prep, just cleaning and cutting the veggies and meats. After all that's done, just throw it in a crockpot and go on with your day!

Happy Cooking!!

Go Me!!

2010-01-08T19:47:00.003-05:00

I usually don't toot my own horn, but I'm going to today. I have been doing pretty well with my 2010 goals.

What I've done so far this week:

One vitamin, every day
Planned meals for every day
Cooked dinner twice, so far. (We went out to eat on Tuesday and Wednesday) It was semi-healthy...we had tacos last night with all fresh ingredients and no sour cream!
Worked out using the Wii twice
Took Melatonin every night, except last night...we stayed up really late for some reason
Cleaned and Organized the Dining room and bathrooms, currently working on the Livingroom and kitchen (Bedrooms this weekend, hopefully)
We had dinner with Bobby's family twice this week. Tuesday was his dad's 50th birthday, so we all got together for dinner. Wednesday night we all went to Benjamin's for dinner...I think it's been a year since we've been there, it was delicious as usual :) I also had a piece of Carrot Cake for my daddy. Anytime I would go there with my mom, she would order a piece of Carrot Cake to go and we would take it home for dad, or take it to 911 for him. So, I had a piece of it for him after dinner.

What I'm working on for the rest of the week

I am blogging for the 1st time this week, but I should be able to update again over the weekend :)
I didn't make any jewelry this week, but I have a couple of pieces that I have to make for friends.
Save money?? I have to make some money before I can save it. Haha.

I'm going to go load the dish washer and change the sheets! Maybe we'll be snowed in for the weekend...I wouldn't mind that!

Have a great weekend!

2 more goals for 2010

2010-01-03T21:03:00.003-05:00

***Originally I only had 8 goals, but I thought I'd add 2 and made 10 goals for 2010***

These are both very important, and will help me improve my health, along with the exercising and eating better.

9. Go to Bed at a "Normal" Time Every Night
I've been having major sleeping issues...recently, I've been awake until 3 or 4 a.m. EEK! One night I think I was awake until 5. I don't know why, it's just that I'm never tired. Well, when I stay up late like that, then of course I sleep in too late the next day. It's a vicious cycle. I can't get up and go to work early, unless it's a day that I know I'm subbing and I plan ahead...I go to the office late on the days that I don't sub and that's not really working for me anymore. I should work all day, not from 11 til 5.
Solution: Every night at 9:30, I'm going to take my Melatonin, which helps me get sleepy. I'm going to get ready for bed before the 11 o'clock news starts, then either watch the news in bed or go to bed as soon as it's over. This should help me make sure that I get enough sleep and wake up rested for my day.

10. Take my Multi-Vitamin daily.
I have been really bad at remembering to take my vitamin the past few months. I started taking it again last Monday, and haven't missed a day yet. I know it hasn't been a whole week yet, but I'd say I'm headed in the right direction!
Solution: Keep the vitamin bottle on the bathroom counter so that I can see it and take one after I brush my teeth in the morning.

Okay, that should really do it this time for the goals. It's almost time to take my Melatonin!

Goals for 2010...

2010-01-03T16:36:00.011-05:00

I've been seeing a lot of posts with goals for 2010 on other people's blogs. Maybe I should set some goals for myself, but where to start?

1. De-clutter and Organize the House

Our house seems to get cluttered easily. It must be because we come home and relax after work. So, the magazines pile up, the mail sits on the table, things sit on the counter, and we don't do much about it. Well, this is the year that things are going to change!
Solution: I'm going to make sure that we get ourselves into a good habit of putting everything away when we're finished with it, and finding homes for things that don't have one yet. If that means buying more Rubbermaid totes, I will...and maybe I should buy some Rubbermaid stock shares, while I'm at it. I probably keep that company in business!

2. Keep a Clean House
This sort of goes with the first one, but is separate at the same time. I don't dust, vacuum, or clean the rest of the house often enough. I get home from both jobs and I'm absolutely exhausted. Once I sit down, I'm finished for the evening...I don't care if anything gets done. Terrible, I know, but imagine if you worked for 8 hours at one job, then went to another one for 4 or 5 hours, then had to come home and cook dinner, vacuum, dust, wash the dishes, do laundry, and clean the rest of the house after that. Maybe some of you do that already, or maybe you have husbands that actually help with that stuff, but that's not how my life works. I do it all on my own!
Solution: Pick one or two tasks to do a day and do them as soon as I get home.

3. Cook More/Eat Healthier
I don't cook dinner very often. Usually, I forget to put something out the night before, and then it's 6 and I don't know what to do, so I find something in the freezer(premade frozen meatballs) that's easy to cook, pop it in the microwave and make some pasta to go with it. Or, we both just reheat something that we find in the fridge. Half the time, I want something he doesn't, so we just make ourselves dinner...and that's usually at 7:30-8:00 at night. Sad, isn't it?? So, I'm going to start meal planning, whether Bobby likes it or not, and see how it works for me.
Solution: Menu plan for the week ideally on Sunday Night for the whole week. Be sure to include more fruit and veggies in our meals.

4. Work out more
I think I may have told you this already, but Bobby's parents got us a Wii and a Wii Fit, along with the Biggest Loser game, for Christmas. Well, we have it all set up in the living room, and we've been using it, but not regularly. With Noelle's wedding coming up in 5 months I can't put on any more weight, especially since my dress is already here! It would be great to have to have it taken in! Also, I would love to lose some more weight so that if and when I get pregnant, I'm not GINORMOUS! I don't want to be one of those women who you can't tell if they're pregnant or just plain fat. Hahaha
Solution: Work out a minimum of 3 days a week for 30 minutes using the Wii Fit or Biggest Loser game.

5. Save Money
I'm not too bad at this, really...but sometimes I walk into Michael's and go CRAZY! I'll buy more stuff to make jewelry, or other craft things, and I spend way more than I should. This usually happens when we go to WalMart, too. We go with a list, and then come home with way more than we intended and we spend a ton more than we should, for sure!
Solution: Go to Michael's only when necessary(That is, when I run out of something). Buy only the things we need while grocery shopping, and don't put anything extra in the cart. Oh, and we need to put a little bit of each pay check into our savings accounts. That might be harder for Bobby to do than me, but I'm going to make him!

6. Participate in a Craft Show
I have been selling a lot of jewelry as of lately, and making a lot of it for gifts, too. I would like to continue doing this, and try to get some stuff made so that I can participate in craft show this year. Penns Manor has one in November, and that's quite a long way from now, but I would really like to do it this year. Maybe I can find another one to do before that, so I can get the feel of it.
Solution: Make a couple of pieces of jewelry a month to reserve for a craft show. Get info on the craft show asap and save money to buy a stand. If I can't do the craft show, I'll have to sell them to friends or create an Etsy store.

7. Spend More Time With Family and Friends
This one is easy, but after 2009, I've realized how important this goal really is. I can always use more quality time with the important people in my life :)
Solution: Same as my goal...spend more time with my family and friends. haha.

Annnnd, my last goal:
8. UPDATE MY BLOG MORE OFTEN!
I know I haven't been so consistent with updating this thing...I'm either busy, or my day hasn't been that exciting to share with you.
Solution: Update at least twice a week, whether things have been exciting or not, so I can keep all of my readers (even though I don't think there are too many of them) happy :)

I think those are all realistic goals. Let's see how I do as the year progresses. Wish me luck!

To all of you returning to work and school tomorrow, try not to stress out over it too much, dress warmly, and be careful on those snowy roads! I know I'm not looking forward to it, but we have to do it sometime, right??

Janelle's Star

2010-01-02T15:36:00.005-05:00

For Christmas, I made Janelle a Photo-Covered Star. I saw it in an issue of Better Homes and Gardens and I just had to try it! I also saw it on bhg.com in their crafts and gifts section. It wasn't too difficult, I just had to practice a little patience when it came to cutting the pictures and paper.
I've had several people ask me how I made it, so here are the simple directions on how to make it!

Materials you'll need:
1. Tin Star
2. Pictures - Black and White looks best (You'll need 10)
3. Vellum
4. 5 different pieces of Scrap booking paper
5. ModPodge or another decoupage glue. (I bought the Matte finish, but I think the glossy would have looked better)
6. A paint brush of some kind. I would suggest a small sponge brush

1.) Purchase a Tin star. I bought mine at Pat Catan's (discount craft store in Murrysville, PA). Each point was about 9 inches from the center. You can probably find them at a Michael's, JoAnn Fabrics, AC Moore, through LTDcommodities, and I know that the Trader Horn in Indiana sells them in many different sizes. I also found them here, in many different colors.
1.5.) (this is a suggestion, and not really a direction, so that's why it's 1.5) BHG.com suggests painting the star black, but I was smart and bought a black one!

2.) Print pictures! I actually printed about 20 pictures so that I could select the right picture to fit on each section. For my star, I used 4x6 pictures. But you may need to use 5x7, or another size depending on the size of your star! It's better to use pictures that aren't too close up on your subject...especially their face! Having a smaller image will make it fit in the section better. That way, you aren't cutting off someone's face. I took almost all of the pictures of Taryne that I used.

A few examples of pictures that worked:

A picture that didn't work:

3.) Trace one point of the star using vellum or tracing paper. I found vellum to be the easiest to use, because it would hold the shape of the point. I used an 8 1/2 x 11 piece of vellum that I bought at Michael's, and I put it over one of the points. I folded it along the center of the point of the star, then I folded it around the rest of the edges. Once I had the shape, I cut it out so that I had my template.

4.) Go through your pictures and see which ones will fit best on each point. Using your template, trace your pictures and cut them out.

5.) As I cut my pictures, I taped each one down to the place on the star that I wanted it to go. That way, I could keep track of each picture (especially because I would have probably lost them!)

6.) After all pictures are cut out, cut your paper pieces to fit onto the point where you've placed your pictures, and tape those on to make sure they fit. This was the worst part for me...because after I used the template to get the shape, I then had to match the angles of the pictures.

7.) Remove pieces from the star, and lay them out on your table just like they were on the star, for easy gluing.

8.) Going from the top point (mine had a hanging wire on the top, so I knew it was the top), put a thin layer of ModPodge down all over the point, and lay your photos and scrapbook paper down, one piece at a time. As you lay each picture down, put a thin layer of ModPodge on top of it. Continue doing this with the paper and the pictures, until you've covered the star.

9.) After all pictures and paper are glued down, allow the whole star to dry.10.) After the star has dried, put on another thin layer of ModPodge over the entire star. This will help hold everything together and put a nice finishing coat over everything.

11.) Allow it to dry one final time. Once dry, either wrap it up for your friend or family member, or...hang it on the wall!

She LOVED it! I think I even made her cry a little. I also promised her one for the new baby after he or she arrives in April!!

Happy Crafting!!! Hope yours turns out as nicely as mine did!

Peanut Butter Munchies

2010-01-02T03:55:00.004-05:00

So back on Nov. 18 I told you that I was going to participate in a cookie exchange with the women at my office. Well, it was a success and my cookies turned out great! The recipe came from Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

PEANUT BUTTER MUNCHIES
(don't they just look yummy??)

Ingredients:

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup peanut butter
1 egg
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
3/4 cup sifted powdered sugar
1/2 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degree F. In a medium mixing bowl stir together flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda; set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl beat together butter, the 1/2 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, and the 1/4 cup peanut butter with an electric mixer until combined. Add egg, milk, and vanilla; beat well. Beat in as much of the dry ingredients as you can with mixer. Stir in remaining dry ingredients by hand with a wooden spoon. Form chocolate dough into 32 balls about 1-1/4 inches in diameter. Set aside.

3. For peanut butter filling, in a medium mixing bowl combine powdered sugar and the remaining 1/2 cup peanut butter until smooth. Shape mixture into 32 (3/4-inch) balls.

4. On a work surface, slightly flatten a chocolate dough ball and top with a peanut butter ball. Shape the chocolate dough over the peanut butter filling, completely covering the filling. Roll dough into a ball. Repeat with the remaining chocolate dough and peanut butter filling balls.

5. Place balls 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Lightly flatten with the bottom of a glass dipped in the 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.

6. Bake cookies in preheated oven for 8 minutes or until they're just set and surface is slightly cracked. Let cookies stand for 1 minute. Transfer cookies to wire racks; cool. Makes 32 cookies.

To Store: Place in layers separated by waxed paper in an airtight container; cover. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Millions of Things

2010-01-02T03:29:00.002-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Can you believe that it's 2010 already?? My hope is that this is going to be a much better year than 2009. I wish that you are all blessed with a ton of love and happiness this year.

There are a MILLION things that I could tell you about, but...I'm going to make it brief and tell you that we had a very nice Christmas. We ran around like crazy people and had a total of 7 family Christmas celebrations (all but two were on Christmas Day), plus our own, and we visited many friends and celebrated with them!

I'm not going to lie to you and say that the day was easy, because it wasn't. I tried VERY hard not to think about how hard the day was going to be, but there were times when I found myself crying and I couldn't control it. Going to my dad's mom's house was the worst, I think. My grandma and my aunts were crying when we got there, so that made it worse for mom and I. We enjoyed the rest of the day up to that point, especially watching Taryne open her gifts and get excited about everything.

I got lots of great things this year. Bobby's mom bought us a Wii and a Wii Fit/Balance Board, plus the Biggest Loser game, which is fun, but lots of hard work. She got me a few Snowbaby Wizard of Oz things for my collection, pj's, and some clothes. Noelle got me a really cute sweater with green, blue, grey, and red stripes. My mom got me lots of new clothes for school (that I picked out), a new bag to take to school with me, gloves/scarf/hat set, a couple of pieces to go with my willow tree nativity, plus a AAA membership! We got lots of money and gift cards from our grandparents and Ben got us a gift certificate for Tandor. Of course, Bobby got me my camera, which he gave me in October...and he got me some stuff that he put in my stocking. That's about it.

This was a crafty Christmas for me. I made lots of jewelry for people, and did a couple of other crafty things for Janelle and Bobby's cousin Jill. I participated in an ornament exchange and a cookie exchange this year, too! I tried to keep myself busy, thinking it would help with my Christmas spirit! I downloaded about 200 pictures to Facebook tonight...and I thought I should update you all on our crazy life!

I SWEAR that I'm going to post a few of my craft projects this weekend, because I've had several questions on how I made Janelle's gift.

We're off to bed! SOOO glad that there are 2 more days left of our vacation!

Decorating at mom's...

2009-12-07T17:15:00.003-05:00

On Saturday night, Bobby and I went to my mom's to spend some time with her, and Bobby had to put a new faucet on mom's kitchen sink. She was SOOO excited about the faucet!

I decided that I would help mom clean, maybe put up her Christmas tree and help her decorate the rest of the house. I did put up our decorations at home last week, and it helped me get into the Christmas Spirit a litte bit.

Well, I dusted the living and dining rooms, took some plants upstairs, and helped mom take things down off the walls. Well, Bobby and Ben went upstairs and got the tree out of the attic and stood it up for us. Mom and I fluffed the branches and then went to get out all the ornaments and other decorations...aka snowmen! Mom has somewhere near 200 different snowmen. NONE of them are the same, and they vary in size from small 1/2 inch ornaments, to a guy that's over 5 feet tall that used to scare the crap out of my dad when he walked in the living room. It's like someone's standing there waiting to jump you!!

I decorated the WHOLE tree by myself, and it turned out lovely, if I do say so myself (I also decorated our tree at home by myself...Bobby put 1 ornament on the tree here). Things were going well while decorating...I got a little choked up while putting the ornaments on when I came across the ones that represented my dad...snowmen dressed like a fisherman, fireman, and golfer, and a golfball that I had bought him somewhere around 10 years ago.

I didn't cry though...until we got out the tote that had the stockings in it. There was dad's stocking, right on top. That did it. I lost it. Of course, mom did, too. We cried for a long time, and then we had to decide what to do. Put it up or don't put it up? It didn't seem right to just leave it in the tote. But how could we leave that empty stocking hang there???? Well, we did hang it up. We decided that we are going to put something in it...a cigar from the humidor we bought him for Father's Day. Did we make the right decision? I'm still not sure. I feel bad that my mom has to look at it every day...I just don't know. Even now, just thinking about that empty stocking, I'm getting teary eyed. I miss him so much.

Tonight, I'm going to finish decorating. I still have to put out the Nativity and decide what I'm going to do for a center piece on my dining room table! I also need to make the finishing touches on the ornaments I made for my ornament exchange.

I'll be taking pictures of the decorations the next few days to share with you! Have a great evening!

Thanksgiving Recap

2009-12-06T18:04:00.002-05:00

So it's been 2 weeks since I've updated. Sorry about that. I thought maybe I'd share with you how our Thanksgiving went, since it was only a little over a week ago, and there hasn't been too much else going on in our lives!

For Thanksgiving this year, we did something out of the ordinary. We went to my Aunt Becky's house (my mom's sister), which is near Harrisburg, instead of staying at home. It was a nice change of scenery. Bobby and I left at 2 on Wednesday and hit rush hour in Hbg and got to my aunt's at 6:30 (after checking into the hotel). We had pizza, hung out with Aunt B, Uncle Scott, and my cousins, Ashlee and Kelsey, until about Midnight. My mom and Ben got there somewhere around 11pm, because they both had to work!

Thursday was the day I was dreading, so much. I really thought it was going to be extremely difficult, just like I thought daddy's birthday was going to be super difficult, too. It wasn't though...for me, mom, or Ben. We got through it with no tears at all. We had a nice meal and visited with my mom's family and had a great day. After all the kids made stockings (that included me) Bobby and I went to Hershey Park with Kelsey and her boyfriend to go see the park lights and watch a cool show that was synchronized with music. It was pretty cool, and I got some neat pictures!

Friday, I went Black Friday shopping with the girls and Aunt B and had a great time. :) I got some good deals and even got myself a new purse! Bobby went to Cabela's in Hanover and he got us some new chairs for bonfires this coming summer! They recline and everything! So excited!

We left Aunt B's and went over to my Uncle Brian's (mom's brother) around 1:00 and stayed until about 3:30...which was MUCH later than we had planned to stay! When we got home, we had a bunch of friends come over, watched some football, talked, and played some games until about 1 am.

Saturday I got up early and went out to Bobby's cousin Jill's and made candy for Christmas with most of the women on his mom's side of the family. When we finished, I had to come home so we could go to Penn Hills for another Thanksgiving dinner at my Aunt Karen's!

Dinner at Aunt Karen's went better than I had expected for everyone there, too. I was surprised by how very UN-emotional everyone was. I said to my mom it didn't seem like anyone was having too hard of a time because dad ALWAYS had to work on holiday's...so it was just like any other year. My mom and grandma seemed to agree with me, too. We stayed there until about 12:30, because we watched the Green Mile....one of my absolute FAVORITE movies, EVER :) oh yeah, and Nova, my GORGEOUS 9 year old cousin, fell asleep in my lap. It was great. She's such a sweetie pie!!

Sunday we hung out at home and watched the Steelers LOSE with JohnAllen. Even tho they lost, we had a fun evening and went to bed early...The boys had to get up and hunt super early.

Well, that's about all that happened Thanksgiving weekend. I'll post more again later. I've got lots of stuff to do this evening!

Thankful day 13...I guess

2009-11-18T23:23:00.004-05:00

I'm behind on my thankful posting. Sorry. I've just been a little lazy lately, and really tired! I have fallen asleep with my laptop in my lap for the past 6 nights...hoping not to do it again tonight!!

Today I am thankful for my momma.

My momma is amazing. She's been through A LOT since last September when she lost her job for a VERY stuuuuuuupid reason. That's a long story and I'm sure she wouldn't really want me to tell you about it, either. She went back to work in December and has had 4 different jobs since then. She is now the assistant manager on the retail side at Cunningham Meats.

She has always encouraged me to do the things that I want to do, and even if we don't always see eye-to-eye, she'll back me up in whatever decisions I make for my life. Whenever someone asks me when I'm going to have a baby and she's around, she jumps in and replies for me, because she knows it's hard for me to talk about. She says that the babies will come when the time is right and she has never been pushy about it. She knows what's going on with my body and doesn't let anyone upset me when the talk of a baby comes up.

Mom has been so strong since we lost daddy. She hasn't given up. She gets out of bed every morning, goes to work, and continues on with her life. I know that there are days that she and I (and I'm sure that my brother and the rest of my dad's family probably feel this way too) would rather give up and just stay in bed and forget about life for a while...just let the grief win and cry forever...feeling so sorry for ourselves. But she won't do that, and because I know she is so strong and won't give up on her life, I can't either.

Tonight, Momma took me to Kittanning with her to have dinner with some of her friends that she used to work with at the Wal*Mart there. We went to The Villa...I'd never been there before, but it was a nice place! They have a cookie exchange every year (That reminds me...we're having a cookie exchange at the office in December...I'm making Peanut Butter Munchies. I'll share the recipe when I make the cookies..and post pictures) and have dinner together. Well, they didn't bake cookies this year, just exchanged recipes, talked, laughed, and ate. We had a nice time and the food was really good.

Thank you for being so strong for me, Momma. I love you forever and ever.

Thankful days 10, 11, and 12

2009-11-11T11:11:00.001-05:00

Whooops! I'm a little behind, sorry about that! This is for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

Today (and everyday) I am thankful for our military.

Wednesday was Veteran's Day, and I cannot tell you how thankful I am that I can live my life in freedom because of the great men and women who so freely serve our country. My dad was in the Navy, one uncle was in the Air Force, and one was in the Army. Bobby's grandfathers served in the Army and the Air Force, and a TON of his cousins have served in various branches of the military. We've both had many friends that have served our country, as well. I can't put into words how much I appreciate what our soldiers do for us every day.

This is something one of my friends posted as his status on facebook the other day. I really liked it. And it's so true, because our military fights to keep us free from the oppression of other countries and help to destroy terrorism!

The Veteran
It is the veteran, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion. It is the veteran, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press. It is the veteran, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the veteran, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble. It is the veteran, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial. It is the veteran, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote. It is the veteran, who salutes the flag, who serves under the flag.

Soooo...that catches me up through today, and I'll do today's shortly!

Thankful day 9

2009-11-10T18:45:00.003-05:00

How about those Steelers, eh?? Did you watch the game? It was fantastic! The only bad part about it was that I stayed up TOOOOO late watching the game and then the news afterward, that I didn't get enough sleep!

My butt was really dragging at school today. I don't know if it was because I was tired, but the kids were REALLY crazy. By lunch time I was so tense and I thought I might start shaking and pull my hair out by the end of the day! I struggled through the afternoon and got to recess. I was able to talk to another adult and find that I wasn't the only one who was having a problem with the kids being crazy. We assumed it was because they don't have school tomorrow and it was "Friday" to them. OHHH well, I made it through the day and I'm still alive and have ALL of my hair :)

After a day like that it's really hard to be thankful! And I was pondering on my drive home about what I might have to be thankful about. Just then, a turkey ran out into the road! I slowed down, knowing that the turkey would make it to the other side, if I went slow enough. Then...ANOTHER turkey jumped in front of my car. I had to slam on my breaks. It was then that I discovered what I it is that I'm thankful for today.

Today, I am thankful for a running vehicle!

I haven't had the best of luck with my car...it's spent a lot of time in the shop. But...lately, it's been running pretty well! *knock on wood* When I had to slam on my breaks today so I wouldn't kill the turkey, I was glad that they work that well! Yes, I know I could have just killed the stupid turkey, but I would have cried the rest of the way home. So...that turkey flew out of the way, and I looked to my right and saw 4 more turkey on the other side of the road. As I drove away, the rest of the turkey walked across the road to their destination. I smiled and continued on my way home, thankful that I didn't kill any turkey today!

So with that, I must get going. We have very little food in the house and I have to figure out what to make for dinner. Hopefully I can pull something out of my rear-end. I think we have some meatballs in the freezer and some noodles. Guess I just figured out what I'm making for dinner tonight!

Thankful day 8

2009-11-09T19:43:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for children.

I still haven't found out what's going on with my body. And...I can't go to the doctor to find out because we don't have health insurance right now...that's another story for another day. Anyway, that means that we can't have kids of our own right now, but I can enjoy being around other people's children! Children are great. They can make you smile and laugh even on the darkest of days. They think simply, act kindly (most of the time), and try to please you in whatever they do. I think that's one of the reasons I love being at the elementary school so much. Most of those kids don't come in the mindset that they aren't going to do anything that you ask them because it doesn't matter. They're eager to learn and they actually want to do it!

My 4th graders were crazy today. They were excited to have me for class and they listened pretty well, but they were being a little more goofy than they would be if their teacher was actually there. It was alright tho, I love when they can make me laugh and smile.

*~*

Well...it's a Black and Gold Monday Night! The Steelers are playing the Broncos tonight at 8:30! I'm sooooo glad there's finally a game on. It's been over 2 weeks since they played because of the bye week. Last Sunday and yesterday were so strange without the game being on! That's alright tho! I'll take what I can get...even if I'll probably fall asleep and miss the end because I'm so tired!

Here we go Steelers, Here we go!!!

Thankful day 7

2009-11-08T22:28:00.004-05:00

Today I am thankful for lazy Sundays.

Today Bobby and I spent the day at home. While I really wanted to go to the zoo today, it was great to just stay at home and be alone with each other. We did a little rearranging in the living room to prepare for Christmas. We spent an hour and a half moving every piece of furniture around...and in the end, the only things that we really had to move were the couch and the TV. We basically just switched where the two things were and it made the room sooooo much bigger! Pictures later!

This week, I teach every day except Wednesday. Monday and Tuesday I will be teaching 4th grade and I'm really looking forward to it! For the most part, the kids are fantastic and I hope that they'll be good for me! Wednesday is Veteran's Day and the school is CLOSED! Thursday, I think I'm teaching art...which may change between now and then, which is fine! Friday I'll be in 1st grade! Yay!
On Wednesday, I'll be taking a Mental Health Day and relaxing. I don't get the chance to be home alone too much and I really need some alone time this week.

I've had such an emotional weekend. I still have this painful sad feeling in the pit of my stomach that won't go away...like the same empty feeling I did the week of the funeral. It's like he was here with me this week and left me again. It's so strange...whenever I have a bad, emotional day, my mom and brother do, too. And my mom says that my dad's sister, Karen feels the same way when we feel that way. Is that weird? Is it a coincidence? I really don't know, but I guess it's good to know that someone is feeling the same way I do when I feel so empty.

Well, it's time for bed! Gotta get up early!! Nighty night!

Thankful day 6

2009-11-07T15:12:00.002-05:00

Today, I am thankful for changing weather.

Yesterday was SOOOOOOO cold! It could have snowed had their been any nasty clouds in the sky. Today it's above 60 degrees and we have the front door open. All the cold makes me appreciate the warm weather, especially when it's unexpected!

We got all of the patio furniture put away for the year and put all of the other outdoor things put in the garage, too. Feels good to have everything taken care of. We won't have to do it when it's super cold, now! They are predicting a high of 66 tomorrow. I'm hoping that my dear husband will take me to the Pittsburgh Zoo tomorrow so we can use our tickets that we bought this summer and didn't have time to use. I'll let you know how that goes!

Oh and last night, we went to the movies to the A Christmas Carol in 3D...you know, the one that Jim Carrey played like 6 or 7 of the characters? It was good. The same old story, but the 3D made it a little more interesting. It made me really sad, tho...thinking about Christmas without my dad. I cried through most of the movie, unbeknownst to my in-laws...but poor Bobby knew I was crying the whole night. Ugh...sorry I'm so depressing...it's just so hard.

Well...the Penn State game should be starting here shortly. Have a good day!

Thankful day 5

2009-11-06T18:00:00.005-05:00

Today I am thankful for memories of my dad.

I have been very, very sad today. I keep thinking of my dad and then the crying starts. I have so many good memories of him and keep seeing his face and hearing his voice.
I can't tell you how hard it is.
There are a few pictures of he and I together on our bookshelf and it's comforting to see his face everyday. But at the same time, knowing that's the only time I'll see him makes me so sad. I was daddy's little girl...and proud of it.

Thankful, day 4

2009-11-05T22:47:00.002-05:00

Today, I am thankful for life-long friends.

I met my best friend, Sara, when I was 5 years old. She lived down the street from me while I was growing up and we would play in the neighborhood. She went to a private school during elementary school, and we didn't meet up again until 7th grade in Junior high. We have been friends since. There aren't many people I know who have had their best friend nearly their entire life. Tonight, Bobby and I went to dinner with Sara and her husband, Tyson. We had a great night, and probably could have sat and talked all night. She's the best :)
*~*
Also, please pray for our soldiers at Fort Hood, in Texas after one of their own turned 2 hand guns on them, killing 12 and injuring 31 others. These men and women live their lives to protect us from foreign threats, they shouldn't have to protect themselves from their own brother. Bobby's cousin was stationed at Fort Hood for 4 years, this hits a little too close to home.

I'll be at school again tomorrow...aaaaannnnd everyday next week. I guess I better get to bed.

Being thankful, day 3

2009-11-04T17:53:00.005-05:00

I read this quote from Oprah on another blog...can't remember which one it was, as it isn't one that I read every day.

"Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have you will never, ever have enough."-Oprah

Today, I am thankful for inspiring teachers.

I work with some AMAZING teachers! Some of them show up to school before the sun's up and stay past dark every day (which is earlier now, I know, but still). Some of them even come in on weekends and work. It's inspiring to me to see that they are so dedicated to educating the young people in this world. It makes me want to be a better teacher, too. Yes, I know, I'm only a sub right now, but if I would get a job in the future, I would know how to improve on the things that need to be fixed. Obviously, I didn't just wake up one morning and say, "ok, I'm going to be a teacher." Somewhere along the way, I had to stumble upon some of these teachers while I was going to school. I've been very lucky to have some of the best teachers as I was growing up...Mrs. Brunetta, Mrs. Clark, Mrs. Bennett, Mrs. Paterson, Mrs. Kovalcick, Mrs. Orchard, Mrs. Grafton, Mrs. Warner, Mrs. Sasala, Dr. Kealey, Mrs. Grafton, Mr. Salser, Mr. Saylor, Sra. Miller, Ms. Nibert, Mrs. Lansberry, Mrs. Novels...these are just a handful of teachers who inspired me to make the choice that I did to go into education. A huge THANK YOU to all of them.

*~*

One other thing today...I don't know how many of you watch WTAE news (channel 4) but today, I saw the most heart wrenching, tear jerking, inspiring story about 2 boys with a disease called Batten Disease. Of the estimated 4.2 million children born in America this year, only about 100 will be diagnosed with Batten disease. It's extremely rare and there is no cure for it. Both of these boys were diagnosed with the disease and their parents know that their children won't live much longer. How heartbreaking. Here is a link to the article. There is a video on the page about the boys, as well. I'll be adding them to my prayer list tonight. I hope you'll say an extra prayer for them, too.

I'm off to make dinner and get some housework done. Hoping that I can tackle the mess on my dining room table! Hope you all have a wonderful evening!

Thankful post day 2

2009-11-03T17:36:00.005-05:00

So I skipped yesterday, because I was too tired, but I'm going to back track and do two thankful posts.

I am thankful for both of my jobs.

With the current state of the economy, a lot of people are getting pay cuts, being laid off, or losing their jobs completely. I feel very fortunate that I am able to have two jobs to pay my bills. I know that I complain about my office job, A LOT, but my bosses are both fantastic! Just the simple fact that they are so flexible and allow me to sub and work there when I need to makes my life so much easier. I would hate to give up that job until I absolutely need to. It's great knowing that I can go to AmbCoach if I don't teach a couple days a week. I also know I have somewhere to work for the summer so I can keep a steady income!

Okay...that's it for day #2. Time to do today's post!

What are you thankful for?

2009-11-02T21:08:00.003-05:00

So as I mentioned a while ago, I read several blogs every day. Today I was catching up on my Google reader and read Katie's post at My Life as a Wallace about being thankful. She said that her pastor's wife challenged her friends to post everyday about what they are thankful for. I think that this is something I might be able to accomplish.

I am thankful for the gift of laughter.

After a rough day at school, then going to the office and feeling pretty crappy about my current employment situation, I felt like no one liked me! I sometimes feel used and that my abilities are under appreciated. Well, after voicing my pitiful opinion of myself on facebook, my friends made me laugh! Sometimes I guess I just feel bad for myself and get paranoid that others think the same of me. It takes a little bit of reassurance from my friends and being able to laugh at myself to make me feel better. So thanks to my friends for making me laugh (at you and myself)!!

~*~

Let's see...a recap of yesterday....well, we sat around the house for a little while, I got in the shower at 12:30, and we went to Bob and Fran's to weigh in. I gained a pound. Booooo! So that's 9 lbs total that I've lost. Bobby lost another 2.2 lbs, so he's at 14 lbs in 9 weeks! I'm so proud of him, because he wasn't going to do this at all and now he's the one that's lost the most weight!

Last night we had dinner at Bob and Fran's to celebrate Jason's (that's Janelle's husband) birthday. We had delicious stuffed peppers and mashed potatoes. YUM! We also had yellow cake with cool whip/pudding icing, and chunked pineapple on top! DELICIOUSNESS! Aaaaannnndddd...that's about how exciting the day was! Haha.

This morning, my alarm went off at 6:30, just in case the school called. Well, as soon as my alarm went off (which is on my phone) my phone rang. It was Penns Manor. They needed me at the elementary school in the third grade. It wasn't a bad day...at first...but as the day went on, the kids got more crazy. I wound up being so upset with them at the end of the day that I was actually GLAD that the I was going to my other job. Haha. What a joke that was!
So yes, I did go to the Coach after school. I have to say, that most of the ladies there are fantastic. I do really love them, and they have become great friends over the past 3 years...BUT..some of them have such a lousy disposition on their lives. They're so miserable that they drag everyone else down! GRRRRR!!!!

TOMORROW WILL BE A BETTER DAY!!!!
That is going to be my motto for the week...no matter how bad the day is, the next day can't be any worse, can it? At least I hope not!

Let's see...what else to share...ummmm...We are going to Hershey/Harrisburg for Thanksgiving. My mom, brother, Bobby, and I are going to go stay near my mom's brother and sister to spend a few days with them. I know my grandparents are going, too, but I'm not sure if my mom's other brother, his wife and kids will go, though. This is going to be our first major holiday without dad. It's going to be rough, and I think the best way to deal with it is by being surrounded by family. I hope it works.
For those of you who have lost a loved one, is it better to be alone on holidays or with family? I would really like to hear what you have to say. Please tell me!

That's about it! It's 10 pm and I'm ready for bed. We'll see if the phone rings in the morning!

Creative solutions!

2009-10-31T22:09:00.008-04:00

First of all, Happy Halloween! We don't really do much of anything for Halloween...without kids, we don't have anyone to dress up! Neither one of us really cares to dress up, and we don't go to parties, so we just stayed in this evening!

I have a TON of jewelry...it's accumulated over the years and I'm running out of room to store it all. My mom is having the same problem, and her birthday was on the 18th. I needed a gift for her and she needed somewhere to put her jewelry! So, I came up with a simple solution. I put some serious thinking into what I wanted to do.

I remembered being at May Mart this year and someone who was selling jewelry and had an old frame that she had painted and had covered plywood or something similar in fabric. Well...I thought that might be pretty easy, but didn't know where to find an old frame that would be big enough for my project. My friend, Julianne, said she's just using a simple bulletin board and pushpins to hang her jewelry on.

So, I combined the two ideas and created this:

I took the center out of the bulletin board, covered it in simple patterned fabric, bought clear push pins and put little bronze stickers on the ends of them for decoration.

Here's a close up of the top.And the bottom of the board.Now, when mom gets dressed, she'll be able to see all of her jewelry and be able to pick something quickly to go with her outfit! I'll have to make one for myself, now, because I like it so much!

Today, we watched the Penn State/Northwestern game this afternoon. Penn State won 34-13! And then Penguins game came on right after that...they lost to the Minnesota Wild 2-1. Tomorrow there isn't a Steelers game. I heard on DVE yesterday on my way home from school that a bar in Pittsburgh is having a Bye-week blues fest since there won't be a game. Guess we'll have to find something else to do, as well!

We're watching the Ghost Hunters Marathon on Syfy...they're showing the 5 scariest episodes and counting down until they do a live investigation at 1:00 am.

That's about it...pretty boring day! It's nice to stay at home together once in a while. We didn't have any visitors for trick-or-treat since we don't live in town. Hope you all had some visitors!

Bad Wife?

2009-10-30T21:12:00.001-04:00

Do you ever feel like you're a bad wife? Or maybe that you aren't appreciated for what you do?

All week I taught and I went to my other job a few days as well. After spending the day with 500+ kids and having to constantly be on my toes I'm exhausted. I have to make sure that they aren't talking when they aren't supposed to, that they're keeping their hands to themselves, understanding what they're supposed to be doing, reading, doing independent work, spelling, math...singing, playing an instrument...which includes checking fingerings, the embouchure, how they're holding the instrument, if they know the name of the note, how long it needs to be played, are they resting...ugh! It's crazy! I love what I do, honestly, but my brain is engaged from the minute I walk in the door of the school until I walk back out to my car.

So when I get home, I'm drained. I am not ready to cook and clean when I get home. That housewife switch doesn't turn on. I feel like I'm letting my husband down because I don't cook dinner for him every night. I wait until the weekend to do laundry and some of my other housework. Does it make me a bad wife because I don't care if I do my wifey jobs everyday??

How do those of you who work balance all of those things? Does your husband help you? Mine doesn't very much. It makes it even harder to get things done when I do it all on my own! Suggestions? Help?! Please?!!??!

...If you try some times, you might find, you get what you need!

2009-10-27T18:25:00.001-04:00

So the other day I wished to get some more days at school for the week. Well, at the end of the day yesterday, I was asked to sub for the entire week for the band teacher. I went from having 2 days to 5 for the week! I guess sometimes you have to be careful what you wish for, because they really happen!

We're off to have dinner with Noelle and Derek! We're picking up pizza and heading to their place! Maybe I'll post something a little longer tonight! Bye!

Speedy Update!

2009-10-25T22:47:00.004-04:00

Okay, I'm going to make this really, really quick because I need to go to bed!

So today we weighed in. I lost 4 lbs this week! Well, technically, I gained 2 last week, so I lost those 2 and then 2 this week...so far, I have lost 10 lbs! I'm so excited! Bobby lost a little more than 2 lbs this week, putting him at 12 lbs total! Not sure where everyone else stands, but we have all lost somewhere between 5 and 10 lbs! Yay!

So far, I am teaching Monday and Tuesday and in the office the rest of the week. I hope that they can find me one or two more days so I don't have to go to the Coach as much.

Oh yeah, and I got all my house work done between yesterday and today. I even ironed ALL my work clothes for the week and two sets of sheets because my husband threw them onto the bed in the spare bedroom when he took them out of the dryer, instead of folding them! So glad it's all done. Hopefully I can take it easy this week on house work! Just daily stuff! No big piles of laundry, I hope!!

Well, I told you I'd be quick! I'm off to bed! Nighty night!

I love sleeping in on Saturdays...

2009-10-24T16:46:00.003-04:00

Last night we went to Pittsburgh Mills with Noelle and Derek to go to Red Robin for dinner, then we went to see Paranormal Activity. HOLY SHIT was that movie SCARY! They tell you at the beginning that it's based on a true story, which I suppose each thing that happened could have been based on another story...but it isn't all true. Usually I'm alright with scary things, they don't bother me or weigh on my mind the rest of the night or the next day...but thing really got to me. If you like scary movies I would recommend it. For fair warning, I almost cried.

So we didn't get home until about 1:00 am, and pretty much went straight to bed. I had been up since 6:30 and I was really tired when we got home. I slept until 1:00 this afternoon! That's 12 hours of sleep. I must have really needed it, because I NEVER do that!

Oh, and Yesterday, Noelle was in the ER. She had really bad pains in her lower back, and what she said were really bad menstrual cramps, too. They made her take a pregnancy test, which came back negative, so they sent her for a CT. They did the CT to see if she has kidney stones. They saw NOTHING in the CT, so the doctor wanted to send her home. Well, she's had ovarian cysts before and said the pain was similar to when she had them last time. The doctor wouldn't give her a pelvic exam and told her to go see her doctor. He had no idea what was wrong with her and was going to send her home without anything for pain. We talked to the nurse and she told the doctor that if he wasn't going to to do the pelvic exam that he MUST give her something for the pain. I was, and still am very mad at that doctor! He should have done so much more for her...especially since he has no idea what's wrong with her. He told her to come back if the pain got worse. Of course she was in a lot of pain while we were at the movie last night, so we made her take a pain pill while we were at the movie. At least it was so scary that everyone was screaming, or she would have fallen asleep.

It is a dark and dreary day here in Indiana and I'm home alone while Bobby's at a gun bash. I've got some sheets in the drier, towels in the washer, and I really should be doing some other cleaning, but I just don't feel like it! I would looooove to stay on the couch and watch TV all day, but I guess I should take advantage of the fact that I don't have to work today and get some things done! Not to mention that it's 5:15 and I should probably get in the shower.

I have to finish my mom's birthday present today or tomorrow, too! I am making her a jewelry board for all of her necklaces and bracelets. I'll have to post a picture of it once it's all finished. If it turns out nicely, I might make one for myself!

I think I'm also going to work on some jewelry today. I have been asked to make a few things for Christmas gifts and for some friends to wear to up coming events. I hope that I can create something that will make my friends happy :)

Well, I guess I should go get some stuff done! Have a wonderful evening!

Happy Birthday Momma!!!!

2009-10-18T15:08:00.004-04:00

Today is my Momma's Birthday! She's at the Steelers game today with her friends. 5 of her friends went together and bought her a ticket to take her. How nice is that?! They all paid for their own tickets, and then split the cost of hers!! They surprised her with it earlier this week. I wish I could have gotten tickets to take her, but they're a little too expensive for us! At least someone could take her. I'm planning to make her dinner this week and a homemade carrot cake.

This is my mom, Uncle Jeff, and my daddy on my wedding day. I love this picture of them!

We've had a really fun and busy weekend. Friday night we went to dinner with Bobby's cousin Jill, her husband Mike, and our friends Amy and Anthony. Also, Jill and Mike have an exchange student from Mexico living with them until June. Her name is Ale. I think it's Alejandra, but I'm not sure...everyone calls her Ale (like Ali). She came with us, too, and so did another exchange student, Michelle, who's from Switzerland. We went to Ironwood and had some delicious food and a great time with everyone.....until we started talking about Christmas...my mood totally changes when I think about the upcoming holidays. I usually cry a little when we talk about Christmas. Everyone changed the subject really quickly so I would stop crying. It worked...but I was still not as happy as I was at first.

Yesterday, Bobby and I went to a wedding near Uniontown, PA. We went with his parents, Janelle and Jason, Jill and Mike, and his Uncle Dave and Aunt Donna. The wedding was for our friend's daughter. We didn't go to the ceremony, just the reception. It was a very nice place. I think it was called Anthony's Lakeside Party Center. We were in McClelandtown, or Uniontown...not sure. It was a beautiful place. We had a really nice time and stayed the night. We got back just before the Steelers game came on.

I have been forgetting to update on my weight loss progress. Last week I lost 4 lbs! That took me to a total loss of 8 lbs in 6 weeks. I'm pretty happy with my progress so far. Although...I got on the scale today to weigh-in and I gained 2 lbs. But, I'm okay with that because we had the wedding and there were cookies and alcohol.....and well...who can resist that at a wedding?!

After the game is over, I think I'm going to do some cleaning. The house is kind of a mess right now and I've got another busy week of subbing coming up and I know I'm not going to feel like doing it after school and going to AmbCoach.

Have a good evening! 4th quarter's about to start. Let's hope our defense can keep playing through the end of the game! Here we go!!!

Ooops!

2009-10-16T09:39:00.005-04:00

Wow...I can't believe it's been nearly a month since I've posted anything. Sorry about that.

I have been at Penns Manor Elementary all week subbing for the band teacher, who's really sick. It's been a fun week of lessons and rehearsals. I've gotten to spend some time practicing some instruments that I don't often get to play. I can never remember slide positions on the trombone, so the kids have been teaching me! It's great practice for them, because then they really have to think about what they're playing to show me how to do it!

Did you see my new camera? I put a picture of it on facebook last week. Bobby got me a Nikon D60 for a late anniversary/early christmas present. It's faaaaaaantastic! I have been taking it everywhere with me and snapping lots of photos!

Last time I posted, I had mentioned the annual Penns Manor craft show. I thought I was going to be able to make some jewelry and sell it there. Well...it's on November 14th and I CAN'T DO IT!!!! That day we are going DRESS SHOPPING for Noelle's wedding dress and to find dresses for the bridesmaids!!!! I am excited to go dress shopping, but I was really wanting to do the craft show. SOOOOOOO...instead, I'm going to ask if you know anyone that might like some pretty things for Christmas or who might need gifts for their bridesmaids for an upcoming wedding to point them in my direction. I'm looking to try out some new things...

Like these: (all photos from artbeads.com)

pretty every day earrings

something fun and summery!

This one's cute right??? I like the little birds in the center!

See something you like??? Let me know! How?? EMAIL ME, find me on FACEBOOK, or leave me a comment on one of my posts! There are so many great sample designs on artbeads.com! I also have some magazines at home or I can do something original. Remember, Christmas is coming and it's never to early to shop! I do have a couple orders from some friends that I'll be working on this coming week to get them finished. I'll post pictures as soon as I finish them!

Jewelry!

2009-09-23T21:57:00.006-04:00

You may or may not remember this from previous posts, but I learned to make jewelry when we went to Tucson, Arizona this past Thanksgiving. I have been practicing and making some jewelry for friends and family as gifts. I have been toying around with the idea to sell some of my stuff and to tell people about it.

Soooo...today I made my first jewelry sale. Thanks to Teri :)
She wanted orange juice with lemons and limes and that's what she got! See!!She really liked it and I'm so glad she did!

I made one similar to it last week for Gail at work. She loved hers too!

To see some of the other stuff that I've made, go here. I'm planning to try some new things over the weekend and hopefully someone will like it and buy it, too!!!

Also, in November, Penns Manor's FBLA club is having their annual craft show. I think that I'm going to get a table and sell some stuff there. If I do get a table, I'll let you all know so you can come check out more of my jewelry! Noelle might make some jewelry and split the cost of the table with me....if she has time, what with the wedding coming up and everything!

If you're interested in some jewelry, you can drop me an email or just leave me a comment on this post.

That's it for me tonight. I'm teaching tomorrow and I need to get to bed. Grey's is on at 9 tomorrow...I can't wait :)

getting better

2009-09-22T13:22:00.001-04:00

Well, it's only been 2.5 weeks since my last update. Pretty good for me I'd say!

Did I tell you that our family is doing a biggest loser challenge? Well...we are. We started August 30th and it's ending the week of Thanksgiving. So far, I've lost 4 lbs!!! I stayed the same for week 1, lost 1 lb during week 2, and lost 3 (yes 3) lbs this past week...week 3. I was pretty excited to get on the scale on Sunday!

Also, I've been sleeping much better lately. I've been getting tired at a decent hour and going to bed around midnight...which is really good for me :)

I have been getting really good about controlling the urge to breakdown and bawl my eyes out when I miss my dad. But, Friday night I couldn't control myself. I totally lost it and cried...more like heavily sobbed...myself to sleep. I don't know what it was that caused my major meltdown...but I really lost it! It was baaaaad!

Saturday night I played bar bingo at the Legion with my mom and when we left and I hugged her, I lost it again. What a mess I am! I can't control it anymore. I didn't even lose it that bad on the 12th, which was his 54th birthday!

Yesterday instead of working at the Coach or subbing, I got to babysit because Noelle was sick! Taryne has bronchitis and an ear infection, so we had to keep the kids seperated, so I had a 4 month old and a nearly 3 year old. Noelle kept Taryne for the day. It was such a nice change of pace/scenery. And holding that little baby boy all day was absolutely wonderful! He's such a little cutie pie! I took Maverick with me and he followed me where ever I went, as long as I had the baby with me. Fran says it's because he wants a baby...and I agreed...saying his mommy would like one, too!

While on that subject...it has been 1 year and 1 day since I went off birth control... And I am still not anywhere near pregnant...but it's okay...God will give me my babies when he's ready to, and I'm willing to wait a while...as long as it's not 5 years from now :)

Well...I best get back to work. Have a great day, everyone!

I'm Back!!!

2009-09-04T01:14:00.004-04:00

Did you miss me??

Sorry I've been gone so long, we've been busy! I wish I had blogged while we were at the beach and our many other fun things. Buuuutttttttt....I didn't! Sorry!

The beach was a blast. It was warm and sunny all week except our last day there, when it stormed all day. For those of you who saw the picture on Facebook, I'm sure you'll agree with me that the storm was creeeeeeeepy looking!! We went to Medieval Times for our anniversary. It was fun...but our Knight lost, poor guy! There are pictures on my Facebook, and I should probably put them on Photobuket soon so you can see them.

We've been running around doing things, visiting friends, going to different things, but nothing too memorable...sad, I know. We went to Deep Creek Lake, MD for a weekend with Bobby's family. They stayed for the entire week, but we went down Saturday and left Sunday, then went back for the day on Wednesday.

Bobby turned 27 last week (Aug. 25th) and his mom cooked dinner for all of us and we had a nice time.

This week is the big Indiana County Fair. Bobby lives for this week every year. He eats lunch and dinner there everyday...today was the only day we haven't gone for dinner. He's going to the tractor pull with his dad tomorrow night. Whew! I am so glad I don't have to go. The smell of Diesel fuel makes me sick to my stomach! Gross!!! While he's there, I'm going to make my dad's famous chili. I have been promising it to the 911 guys for the past 2 months, so I'm taking advantage of the fact that I'll be home alone and I'm going to finally make it. It's deliciousness in a bowl! It won't ever be exactly the same, but it'll be close.

I'm looking forward to the 3 day weekend! We're having a big ol' party on Monday...We've invited like 100 people (I MUST BE CRAZY) and they're pretty much all coming. Soooo...if you read this on a regular basis (although, it has been nearly 2 months since I've posted, so there's nothing regular about that) you can come join in the fun!!! We're starting at 2 and asking everyone to bring a covered dish and a chair. If there's something special you like to drink, you may want to bring that, too! We're providing hot dogs and some beer and other beverages for all! We'll have a fire in the evening and we can find some games to play outside, too!
Just let me know if you're coming, and if you need directions! I'm in the mood for a good party! So please come over, it won't be as much fun without you!

And on that note, I must say good night! I've been having some problems sleeping, as most of you probably know...and staying up this late won't be good for me come tomorrow morning. So off to bed I shall go! Nighty night!

Quick update

2009-07-14T22:44:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to let everyone know I'm doing alright. Every day is different and has to be dealt with differently.

I miss dad everyday, but there's nothing I can do to bring him back. So I get up every morning, go to work and deal with my sorrow as it comes. Fortunately, I have a lot of wonderful people in my life who support me and that includes the ladies at work (some more than others...and they know who they are).

This past weekend we were in Hershey, Coatesville, and Lancaster celebrating my uncle Brian's 40th birthday (hershey) and Diana's 24th (c-ville/lancaster).
We had a great time and it was a much needed distraction for us!

We are working all this week and then headed to North Myrtle Beach on Saturday for our 1st Anniversary! I can't believe how fast this year has gone! Wow! More on that next time!

I'm trying to get some stuff done around the house so it's done before we leave! I better get going!

Much love to you all!

Taryne Lee

2009-07-09T23:52:00.004-04:00

Today is my beautiful niece Taryne's birthday. It's hard to believe that just 2 years ago we got to meet her!

She is such a ray of sunshine. She lights up the room when she walks in...unless she's sleepy or grumpy, of course. I love my sweet little peanut and am so glad that when the days are bad I have her to brighten my day. Being an aunt is amazing...and I love watching her grow. It's just hard to believe that she's getting so big.

It's hard to believe that just a year ago, she was so small and had so little hair! Look at her! This is from our wedding:

(photo courtesy Teri Enciso-Albarano)

Now here she is this week...so different, so grown up, playing in the hot tub.

Isn't she just the cutest thing you've ever seen?? Tho, I guess I'm a little biased.

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY T-BIRD!!!!!
Aunt Sarah Loves you sooooooooo much more than you'll ever know. Can't wait to have your party on Friday at Grammy's house!

Therapy...

2009-07-09T22:11:00.004-04:00

Every Tuesday and Thursday...with a few exceptions, I walk with a group of friends from my church. It's a nice time with friends and it's great to be out of the house getting some exercise!

Well, this week my nice walk with friends got a totally new meaning for me. Tuesday was nice, but I was still very emotional because it was my first day back to work after Dad's funeral. Today was good though, because mom came with me. Even though mom and I are still hurting so bad, it was a wonderful way for the two of us to talk and enjoy ourselves a little bit.

Tho, it doesn't seem right that we have a good time. We don't know what we're supposed to do...are we allowed to smile, laugh, and enjoy ourselves?! I feel like I should be in this constant cloud of sadness. Most of the time, I am...but sometimes I feel a smile come to my face and it feels so good. We watched a movie tonight and I laughed really hard...now I feel so guilty for doing it.

I just miss my dad so much. We didn't talk everyday, but I won't ever get to talk to him again. Now I'll never feel his prickly mustache-y kisses and I'll never hear him call me Sassy again. I'll never get to give him the granddaughter he wanted so badly to spoil. I do know that my daughter will be given the name he wanted me to have, which is Hannah.

I can't help but sit here and cry tonight. I just want so badly to see my dad again.

Bobby keeps asking why I'm crying tonight...did he do something, he says. Of course not dear, I'm just crying for my dad. There's just so much pain inside my heart and this is the only way that it can spill out...through my eyeballs.

When I started this little blog I wasn't sure that I would keep up with it...now I feel like I have to so that my dad can hear me. I want him to continue to be proud of me and know what's going on in my life...even though I know he's watching over me every day seeing all I do, but now he can hear my thoughts, too.

Now I'll go to bed with a heavy heart and a cloudy mind. I won't be able to sleep very well, because my mind will be running with memories of my dad. I hope none of you ever have to feel this pain, it's just too much.

God bless you all.

2009-07-07T13:02:00.001-04:00

Every song on the radio reminds me of dad today. My heart hurts so much.

We'll meet again...some sunny day.

2009-07-05T10:56:00.008-04:00

H. Alan Houck
September 12, 1955 - June 30, 2009

Daddy,

It's so hard to believe you're gone. Just last week we were all hanging out in the pool and in the rain. There's so much I want to say to you and I feel that this is going to be the best way to do it.

I know that God took you from us because you wouldn't have wanted to live hooked up to those machines. I wish that the doctors would have tried harder, I wish that you would have at least been alive long enough for us to say goodbye to you.

If there's one thing that I've learned through all of this, it's that the people in our lives are all amazing. The support that all of our friends and family have given to us has been unbelievable. Who would have known that somewhere near 700 people would have come to say goodbye to you.

I'm sure that you know how Ben and I felt about you as kids. You were scary and mean. And we both always wished you would have left us. The relationship that you and mom had when we were growing up was terrible. There were times when it was good for all of us, but we had a lot of bad times.

When you left and Ben and I were adults, we were glad but at the same time, my heart was broken. How could you have left me without saying goodbye? I was so angry with you and it took a long time for that hurt to go away. But we fixed things you and me. I was daddy's girl again.

I'm so glad that you and Ben fixed things. He was so angry with you too, because you hurt mom. But finally, on father's day this year, you guys really fixed things. You have no idea, or maybe you do, how much it means to him to have heard you say you're proud of him. Those are the words that he's going to cling to when he misses you. And he will.

I know that you loved mom, even though you had a hard time showing it. She is lost without you already. But I promise, I'll take care of her. We'll get everything straightened out and make sure that she has the support she needs. David, Denny & Donna, Tim & Anita, Tom & Carol, and Craig and Jan will take care of her. But so will her brothers and sister, and your family will, too.

I hope that you're looking down and enjoying the party that we've been having for you. Don't be mad because we cry, we're hurting and that's the only way to let out our grief. I know you and Pappy Harry are watching over us and protecting us.

The happiest memory of you that I'll have is that you walked me down the aisle at my wedding. I know that you loved Bobby as much as I do and you were proud of the choice that I made. Bobby is going to miss you, too. He loves you too.

I don't know what else to say now. I still believe that someone had to pull out in front of you because you could have driven home with your eyes closed. You wouldn't have wrecked unless someone caused you to. Only you will know what happened but I wish you could tell me. Hopefully you'll visit me in my dreams so that I can see your smile again.

I really wanted to give you grandchildren to spoil. I promise that when we do have kids that they will know what an amazing grandfather they had. They would have loved to swim and play with you.

I love you, Daddy. My life won't be the same without you.
I'll always be your little girl. Love you always,
Sassy

It's only a broken heart...and a little bit of anger

2009-05-23T23:07:00.007-04:00

*****Warning this post is quite long*****

I know I say this all the time, but it's true. I've been busy. Teaching and working at AmbCoach eat up most of my time these days. I really do love subbing. AmbCoach is really sucking lately. Some of my co-workers are being big babies and causing too much drama in my life. I hate being there.

About 2 weeks ago, one of my coworkers broke into my desk and told the owner that I was lying on my time sheet, which was a big pile of horse poop! I was soooooo angry when I found out. I decided to leave a note on the inside of my desk for whomever it was...because I knew they would do it again. Well, my note wasn't nice, and I was hoping that person would understand how I felt without having to confront them. I knew who did it and the thing that makes me mad is that I helped her move when she left her abusive husband and have offered her help whenever she needs it. So that's how she decided to repay me.

Anyway...someone (not the person who broke into my desk) was helping me by doing some of my work because I was subbing all week saw the note and told the B*#$@ that broke into my desk that it was there. Well, then she told my boss who I had a talk with this week. My boss said there is no prblem with me and she is not worried about me lying on my time sheet and that she knows the problem lies with the person who broke into my desk.

On another note...I'm not pregnant...again.
If you remember, back in March, I had bloodwork done to see if I was pregnant...which I wasn't then either. If you don't remember, read here first...and this was the follow-up to that post.

I had MORE bloodwork done on the 11th...remember I HATE NEEDLES...I told the girl at the lab to just stick me with the needle and take the blood and not to tell me when she was going to stab my arm, I wouldn't move. Well...she did it...and no blood came out. So then another girl had to come over and re do it. She said "a little pinch" then stabbed the hell out of my arm. She rolled the darn needle around and I still have a freakin bruise from it. Dumb girl!

The reason I had the bloodwork done is because I haven't had a period in 2 months and he had told me to monitor my cycles...well, clearly there hasn't been anything to monitor. So...I called Dr. Stever's office and talked to Chris, the receptionist, who faxed paper work over to the lab for me to have bloodwork done because they wanted to make sure I wasn't pregnant before they put me on any meds.

Well, after the bloodwork, I waited to hear from Dr. Stever again. He called me while I was teaching last Friday and said No, no baby, again. And yet again, my heart broke into a thousand tiny little pieces...even though I was pretty sure that I wasn't pregnant this time. So he wrote me a prescription for Provera to take for 10 days so that I can have a period...though it won't make me ovulate. Hopefully it'll get my body back into the swing of things and I won't have to go on fertility drugs. *Fingers Crossed*

While on the subject of fertility drugs...Bobby's cousin Kendi, who was having the same sorts of problems was on fertility drugs and now she's pregnant with TWINS...possibly TRIPLETS! Could you imagine? It would be totally awesome to just have all your kids at once and not have to go through another pregnancy...but at the same time, the house would be chaotic with 3 kids of the same age getting into everything all the time. I don't know how she's going to do it...but I know she's going to be an awesome mom.

----- END SARAH'S PITTY PARTY-----

Last night we had a bonfire in our back yard. It was a perfectly beautiful night filled with family and friends. We had about 20 people here and had a great time. I don't think we came in until about 2 am. I slept until 11:45 this morning...which I NEVER do.

This afternoon, Ben, Erika, and Cooper came to visit us at our new house for the first time! We haven't seen them since New Years' at their new house. Cooper has grown up so much, it's unbelievable! He'll be 2 this August and he's a walking, talking wonder! He even asked me to pick him up so he could look at our fish and I carried him around the house for a little while. He is so funny and totally awesome. We don't see them enough. Erika is due in a month and a half with their second little one. She's having a girl this time and I'm so excited for them!

Well, I think I don't think there's much else to share and it's about time to put another load of laundry in. Enjoy the rest of your long weekend everyone.

Don't forget to remember those who fight for our country and lose their lives to protect our freedom on Monday.

Nighty Night.

Happy Mother's Day!!

2009-05-10T16:27:00.003-04:00

To all you mom's out there...Happy Mother's Day!
You all deserve a day to relax and be with your families.

I am so thankful to have so many "moms" in my life. I have 3 grandmas, plus my husband's 2 grandmas, my mother and my mother-in-law, and my sister-in-law who is an AMAZING mother. Not to mention my aunts and his aunts.

There are also the women who have been "moms" to me. I have called my best friend's mom "mom" since JR. High, and JohnAllen's mom is a mom to us as well. All of our friends' mothers are amazing women who do so much for all of them. I can't ever thank any of them enough for all they've done for us as we grew up and while we are starting our lives together. They've all supported everything we've done and back us up 100% (most of the time).

I hope that some day soon I can join the ranks of motherhood and share the good things they have shared with me with my children.

Also, a friend of mine shared this video with me today...it's Love Story by Taylor Swift and Viva La Vida by Coldplay on the Piano and Cello. It's beautiful. Hope you enjoy it!

This might be a long one!

2009-05-03T19:48:00.010-04:00

I know I say this all the time, but I have been so busy lately.
It's been a long time since I've written on here because I've been subbing and working so much.

The 20th was my 25th birthday. It was a wonderful day. I baked 4 dozen cupcakes for the 5th graders I was teaching that week and they were delicious! They were cookies and cream cupcakes! They had oreos in the batter, and half had chocolate icing, and the other half had vanilla icing. I put a quarter of an oreo on top of them. The kids loved them and so did we! I will for sure make them again!
Bobby got me all 4 of the Twilight books...I haven't started reading them yet because I'm finishing "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert. It's very good. But I really, really, really want to read my Twilight books!!
I got some other stuff from my mom, Noelle and Fran. My mom got me a swag to hang in the living room and some plates for a plate rack I got from my Home Interior Party. Noelle got me the movie Bed Time Stories. I watched it with the kids at school. It's so funny, I loved it! Fran got me a gift card for Old Navy so I can get some new clothes for school/work!

The whole week of my birthday I subbed at Penns Manor for a 5th grade teacher while she was out having surgery. What a blast those kids were! I love 5th grade because you can make fun of them and they make fun of you right back. They're so funny. I really didn't want to leave them at the end of last week!

Last Saturday we had a fire in the backyard with our friends. Diana was here visiting from Kentucky so we had to do something while she was here. We had way too much to drink that night and I had a hangover on Sunday morning! We were being so goofy that night, but we had a great time with our friends!
Last Sunday, the 26th, we had Janelle's birthday dinner. Her birthday is the 27th, but we had dinner a day earlier like we did for mine. We had a nice dinner outside and then we took Taryne down to the pond to feed the fish. We spent almost 2 hours by the pond and I got some really nice pictures. She was also blowing out the candles on Janelle's birthday cake 100 times because she loves to sing "happy birthday" and blow candles out. It's so cute! She was also trying to blow bubbles...we all ended up doing it for her and she would pop them.

We went to my boss's son's wedding last night. I was not looking forward to it at all! I thought it was going to be soooo boring and we would be home by 7. We ended up getting pretty buzzed because the bartender - Sparky - was mixing the drinks half and half. They were so strong that we were all just about drunk on 2 drinks before dinner! It was pretty funny. We had a ton of fun with my co-workers and their spouses/significant others. We all stayed until the end of the reception (9:30) and I think it would be fun to have them over to our house this summer for a big party. Of course, I forgot my camera last night...but my battery was completely dead and I neglected to charge it. Oh well...Fran had her camera.

Today, we had Bobby's grandma's birthday party at Fran's house. We didn't have the nicest weather, but it was nice to spend the day with family. No pictures from day...I used Fran's camera for her all day because she was so busy being hostest with the mostest!

And finally...Yesterday, Jenni FINALLY had her baby. Christopher Grant Bush was born at 10:29 on Saturday morning. He was 9lb 5 oz, 20 1/2 inches. He is a biiiiiiiggggg baby! But absolutely adorable. We haven't been to the hospital to see them yet, but should be going tomorrow night.Well...that's it! Hopefully I'll be updating sooner than later next time! The school year is almost over...1 month to go! Take care!

One more thing

2009-04-16T23:28:00.003-04:00

I forgot to tell you about the embedded player at the bottom of my blog. It's from playlist.com. I found it on another blog I was reading the other day and I thought it was really cool. You can listen to some of my favorite music...which is a strange mix because I love almost all music. I use it at school on occasion when I have some free time. It's great because it can be accessed from anywhere. I do still love my ipod, but I can't use it at school...and you can't hear what I'm listening to :)

Now it's really bed time! Nighty night

I am a VIOLIST...not a violinist.

2009-04-16T22:49:00.003-04:00

So this week started dress rehearsals for Beauty & The Beast at Penns Manor High School. Oh what fun they've been. I've been working 'til 5, coming home, changing into sweats, eating something really quick and running out the door to get to the school for 4 hours of rehearsal!

This morning we performed act 1 for the elementary kids. They really seemed to enjoy it. It was fun to see their reaction to the live action of a movie they've seen 100's of times. We had a little glitch during the performance and I hope that it doesn't happen on opening night.
The inner curtain for the stage got stuck shut and we were to be moving on to the next scene but had to stop for 10 minutes while they fixed the curtain.

Did I mention that I'm playing the violin 2 part for this show?! They didn't print a VIOLA book for it, so the next best thing was violin 2. The music is freakin' hard! I am NOT a VIOLINST! I can't shift up into 5th/6th position and play all this high stuff without problems. I'm working my booty off and I can't do any more than I'm already doing. So to all of those people in the pit who I know don't read this because they don't even know my name because they're jerks, quit giving me shit...I can't take any more of it! And to the guy who's a sub and took all of my high school music days, buzz off and quit taking my days!! He's subbing for the elementary general music teacher tomorrow and I'm mad because I'm going to be in the building for a 5th grade teacher and not for music.

And I bet I forgot to tell you about the 5th grade teacher I'm covering for. She's having surgery to remove a spur from her spine and she requested that I sub for her from tomorrow, through next Friday, the 24th. I was a little nervous about doing it because it's going to be a WHOLE week and she's trusting me (the girl with the music degree, not elem. ed degree) in her classroom teaching her kids. I talked to her the day she requested me about it and she said that she trusts me with the kids and know they all like me, so there was nothing to be worried about. She said if I was alright with it, then so was she. That made me feel really good about myself as a teacher. I have considered getting my masters in elementary ed...being duel certified will really increase my chances of being employed.

Speaking of employment...I sent my application into Harmony School District on Monday. Thanks again, Traci, for the heads up on that one! I told my mother-in-law that I was submitting my application and she gave me a priority envelope and paid the postage through the company mail account so I could send my application over-night. The deadline is tomorrow...
Keep your fingers crossed for me, please! I'm really hoping that I at least get a phone call for an interview. I'll let you know if I do get a phone call.

Well, it's bed time. Subbing in the morning, then Beauty & The Beast show #1 at 8:00 pm.
By the way, if you're in the area this weekend and don't have plans yet...the shows are as follows:
Friday @ 8:00 PM
Saturday @ 7:00 PM
Sunday @ 2:00 PM
Tickets are $7 and are available at the door.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Just a note

2009-04-04T17:03:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, I wrote about my blitzing to clean my house.

Just want to say, that while it was rewarding to have accomplished so much, it was more rewarding to sit down and enjoy the rest of my evening with Bobby. As I said in my post, I've been really, super busy lately and my house was obviously suffering because of it...and unfortunately, the time I spend with Bob-o has been dwindling, as well.

I have been subbing and working at the office a lot and we don't get to spend as much time together as we would both like. But, at the same time, he is also at a gun raffle today, trying to win some guns or some money and he had to go to the airport this morning to drop off his boss's son. He left at 6:15 and got home at 11:00.

So, last night was majorly rewarding because as soon as my cleaning was done last night, he woke up from a short nap and we made dinner together. It was nice to work in the kitchen together and then to enjoy our easy meal of cheese-stuffed burgers (that the cheese oozed out while they were cooking) and au gratain potatoes. We watched some tv and went to bed.

Today, when he came back from the airport, he brought breakfast home for the two of us and we hung out for a while before doing some laundry. He took a little nap because he was so tired after his big drive. Then when he woke up we watched Turner and Hootch together...I had never seen it. It's a great old Tom Hanks movie.
He left about an hour ago and Maverick and I are missing him already. I'll be alone the rest of the night and it really bites. I may do something with my mom...we'll see.

One last thing...before I forget. I was checking out Organized Everyday, again today and she had this funny video on there about Twitter...Now, I don't twit, but I do often update my Facebook status from my cell phone just like a few other people I know...but I think this is funny. It's from YouTube

Blitzing!

2009-04-03T21:16:00.016-04:00

I read a lot of blogs on home making and crafting...I'd like to think that I take care of our home pretty well and that it's not dirty, sometimes I just get really busy. I look to the amazing people who post daily about their cleaning, cooking, baking, and crafting for inspiration in my home. I have learned a lot about making my house a home from them.
Of course, I also read the blogs of some of my friends, just so I know what's going on in their lives.

This Friday, I'm trying something new...It's called Blitz-It Friday!

You set a timer for one hour and try to get as much cleaning done as possible. Every Friday over at Organized Everyday, Organizing Mommy hosts a challenge to her readers to set a goal and see how much cleaning they can accomplish in the one-hour time limit. Here's the original rules for the one-hour blitz

So...today, I thought I would finally give it a try, as I do follow her blog daily and I keep saying I'll do it. Here's what I wanted to accomplish:

Unload/Reload Dishwasher
Handwash all dishes that cannot go into dishwasher
Take out garbage
Clean bathroom
Dust Livingroom/Dining Room
Put away all lose paperwork
Clean off furniture
Fold towels washed a couple days ago

Here are some pictures to show why things needed to be done!

I know...that's a lot to accomplish in an hour...but guess what?! I got it ALL done...except for folding the towels. But I got HALF the house clean! I am completely amazed at how much I can get done in an hour!
See how much better everything looks!!!

Whew! That was a ton of pictures! I told you it looks better! I think I might set my timer tomorrow while I'm home and see how much more I can get done!
I'll have to take some pictures of my different spring decorations that are around the house and share those, too.

I can't believe it's April!

2009-04-01T21:43:00.003-04:00

Well, it's Wednesday evening and we're hanging out at home in our respective seats on our laptops.

Tonight I made BBQ chicken, noodles, and fruit cocktail for dinner. It wasn't anything too exciting, but it was still good. It's time for some ice cream, I think.

Now that April is here, things are going to start getting busier.
Starting next week, I have musical rehearsal for 2 weeks. I am sort of dreading it because I know that my back is going to be hurting extremely bad and I'll be grumpy because of it. I'm playing with Penns Manor HS's pit for Beauty and the Beast. The show is April 17, 18 & 19...if you're interested :)

There isn't too much else going on in our lives right now.
Bobby has an upset stomach today and didn't go to work.
Tomorrow, Maverick will be 3 years old! I can't believe my puppy is that old already! We met him 2 days after he was born and he was soooo tiny. Until we brought him home, we went to the breeders every week, or every other week until the day Bobby and Noelle went and picked up Maverick and Marlie (she's Noelle's dog, from the same litter) while I was at work. Now they're 3! He's been such a good buddy for us and like a child for us. And right now, it looks like he's going to be the only baby we get...considering the problems I'm having right now...

I'm subbing at Penns Manor Elementary tomorrow...don't know what I'm doing in the morning, but I'll be teaching music in the afternoon to grades k-3. Can't wait! I'm going to get my ice cream now and then head to bed. Nighty night!

Nothing too exciting

2009-03-24T22:56:00.004-04:00

Things have not been too exciting lately. There really isn't anything exciting going on in our lives.

OHHHH!!! One thing that is REALLY, REALLY, REALLY EXCITING is that Noelle (Bobby's little sister) got ENGAGED last week! I'm so excited for her! They are going to get married NEXT summer in June 2010. Bobby and I will both be in the wedding!We love our Wella and we love her man, Derek, too! Can't wait for the wedding!

Bobby's cousin Jenni is about ready to pop! She's due on April 30th, but she's going to pop that baby boy out any day now. Her step-brother's wife just went into labor tonight...Bobby got a text message that little Piper Burr will be welcomed into the world soon! I'm so excited for all the new babies!

Did you see dancing with the stars tonight?? They kicked off Maks and Denise Richards. I cannot believe it! Steve Wozniak should have TOTALLY been kicked off instead! I'm so mad! I hope that American Idol doesn't disappoint me this week!

Tonight, I had rehearsal with a quartet at my church for this Sunday's service. The quartet is meeting with the choir tomorrow night, and we perform on Sunday morning. I love playing my instrument and I wish that I could play more often, but I don't have the time.

Last Tuesday we went to the Penguins game! It was soooooo much fun. I had a BLAST! I haven't been to a Pen's game in 5 years. It's been too long! I have some pictures...but not on my computer yet. Bobby put them up on Facebook if you want to look there.

I'm closing my Home Interior party on Friday night, and actually, Thursday I'm closing my Party Lite book party. I was crazy to have both parties going on at the same time...but everyone wanted stuff and so did I, so I just decided to have both!

I'm subbing at Westmont in the morning, working from 4-8, then rehearsal...subbing Thursday and Friday at Penns Manor...I haven't taught in almost 2 weeks, I miss being with the kiddos. Hopefully tomorrow will be fun!

Time for bed! 5:45 is waaaaaaayyyyyyy too early for me! Nighty night!

Hilarity

2009-03-19T00:53:00.002-04:00

Okay...so I discovered a new website tonight. It's www.fmylife.com. If you need a good laugh, I suggest you check it out. Bobby and I read through these for about an hour tonight.
You may not think they're very funny...but sometimes it feels good to laugh at other people's misfortunes.

Here are a few examples:

Today, I received my passport in the mail. They got my birthdate wrong. Then I picked up my birth certificate that I had sent in with the application. Turns out my parents have been celebrating my birthday on the wrong day for 16 years. FML

Today, I was walking through the mall with my boyfriend of a year and a half. There was sign outside of the jewelry store that said, "Engagement Rings-No interest for 12 months." I said, "Look, baby! No interest." He replied, "That's right...NO INTEREST." FML

Today, my guy friend and I were in his dorm room watching a movie when he started kissing me. Things heated up so we moved things over to his bed. He was on me when a hand shoots down from his top bunk. His roommate had been up there the whole time and he wanted a high-five. So they high-fived. FML

This one was by far my favorite...I was crying because I was laughing so hard.
Today, I was pissing in a urinal and I had the urge to sneeze. Unable to hold it, I sneezed and hit my head on a metal beam supporting the urinal. In complete disarray, I had to step back from the urinal while pissing and managed to spray the floor, the wall, and the person next to me. FML

I'm heading to bed now...nighty night :)

Maybe it's TMI

2009-03-14T22:43:00.003-04:00

I got a phone call from Dr Stever today. My blood work came back and my thyroid level was normal. Must have just been a fluke last time. But, my prolactin levels are a little high, which could be the reason I'm not ovulating. I looked it up this evening and it says it's usually the hormone that helps you produce milk when you are nursing...but if it's high any other time it can cause infertility.

Though this is too much personal information...I did get my period after I talked to Dr. Stever last weekend and found out that I'm not preggo. I'm thinking that I must have convinced myself that I was, and then stressed myself out thinking about it. It's funny how our minds work and can do weird things to our bodies.

Anyway, now I have to monitor my cycles closely and hopefully they'll get straightened out so that we can have our baby.

Last night I had my Home Interior party and 17 people came! Plus, there were 10 kids, 3 dogs, and a bunch of the guys came and hung out with Bobby. We had a full house, and I LOVED it. I love playing hostest, making good food, and taking care of everyone. So far, I'm getting close to $100 of free stuff, plus half off items and everything else. I'm so excited! I'll be getting some new stuff for the house for the walls and who knows what else! Can't wait.

Tonight, we went to the meadows for ice cream, then went to subs 'n suds for dinner. It was goofy to do it that way, but we really wanted some ice cream first. That's about it...we're watching LINGO now. I think I'm ready for bed tho...

Tomorrow we're spending the day outside planting tulip bulbs and getting the patio furniture out. I can't wait!!!

Nighty night

Real Quick

2009-03-13T11:19:00.004-04:00

So right now I'm at Penns Manor Elementary School, subbing for the Band director. I have been here since 8:00 am, had lobby duty where I greeted the kids, then I've taught for a total of 1 hour so far...and it's now 11:30. I won't see another kid for at least another hour....wow!

I've seen 6 kids so far today for PERCUSSION lessons. Oh what fun! I now understand why Westmont doesn't just let any kid that wants to play the drums! These kids don't bother counting, they just want to hit the drum head. One boy said, "I should've played the saxaphone...at least they get to sit." HOW LAZY! Lessons are maybe a half an hour, if the kid shows up on time...and band is only half an hour...1 day a week.

After school today, I'm taking 2 of Bobby's cousins home with me...one is in 1st grade, the other in 3rd. They'll be coming to our house until their mom's come for my Home Interior Party @ 7:00. I can't wait for everyone to see our new house!

Last night, we drove down to Robinson Town Center to go to IKEA!! Oh how I love IKEA!! We bought 6 new dining room chairs, cushions to go on them, a plastic bag wrangler, and a mirror that extends away from the wall so that I can actually SEE in the bathroom! It was supposed to be an hour and a half drive and we left at 5:00...we got there at 6:45 becuase the traffic through Pittsburgh was terrible. We left there around 7:30. We pretty much ran through the store and I wish we hadn't...We looked at a couple of beds for the spare room, but bobby said there's one in his mom and dad's barn that we can use instead. We also walked through the baby section.
I found a crib that I really like...and I'll keep it in mind when we're planning for the nursery.

After we left IKEA, we went to Lonestar Steakhouse...it was blah...we meant to go to Texas Roadhouse...I wish we would've gone to TR because we were really disappointed. The food wasn't that great, and all they have is chicken, steak and shrimp. Blah! We finished eatting rather quickly and got home around 9:30. I had to go to Wal*Mart when we got home so I could get some snacky things for my party tonight...I'm making a delicious parfait with angel food cake, berries, and pudding/coolwhip. Also, i'm making a cheesey dip in a bread bowl, some mini quiches, and that's about it. Don't want to over do it!

I spent Tuesday and Wednesday night cleaning out our MESSY spare bedroom. We had shoved all the extra stuff in there when we moved and it was a big pile of boxes and randomness. I spent a lot of time in the room organizing everything that I could, and threw away a lot of stuff. Once we get a bed, it will be perfect. I'll show you the before and after photos later...

Well, the pre-k kids are getting ready to leave for the day and 2 of bobby's little cousins are in that group...I'm going to go say goodbye to them.

Have a great day everyone!

Something to share

2009-03-09T18:12:00.003-04:00

It's time for me to finally share this with you...I've avoided posting about this because I had a lot of false hope and was really let down.

For the past month and a half, I thought I was pregnant. But, as I found out Saturday...I'm not.

I was so excited and had already thought about how I was going to change our spare room into the nursery. I had already thought about the finish of the crib and the rest of the furniture. I was looking forward to traveling to the beach this summer and having my big belly and enjoying every moment of it.

The back story - I posted back in September that I was going off the pill...and I did. Life has been marvelous since then. My mood swings have decreased and I've not been so down-in-the-dumps. We aren't actively trying to have a child, but I can't really say that we're doing much to prevent it.

Anyway...I haven't had my period in 2 months, so I took a HPT 2 weeks ago...it was negative. But, I knew that annual appointment was coming up with Dr. Stever, so I figured I would talk to him about it. So, I did...he gave me a script for blood work and told me that depending on what the lab said, if I wasn't pregnant he would have to put me on meds to help me ovulate...which would be why I hadn't gotten my period in 2 months.

I went last Monday and had the blood drawn and waited the whole week to hear from Dr. Stever. He called me on Saturday night and told me that the blood tests were also negative for pregnancy. I was crushed!!!! It wasn't enough that the HPT was negative, but to hear the doctor say it made it even worse for me. What he did tell me is that my Thyroid levels were a little high and that I would have to have the blood work repeated.

Did I mention that I HATE needles?!?!

So...today I went and blood drawn again...now it'll be a waiting game to hear from him. I'm either going to have to go on medication to help me ovulate...or to lower my Thyroid levels.

And I know what you're thinking..."It'll happen when it's supposed to happen." I know that, but that's not what I wanted to hear from anyone. I wish someone would've said, it's okay to be angry, sad, and everything else that I was feeling. One of the girls at work said that she didn't think I was ready to have kids yet...but we've been together for 6 years and yes, I am ready.

I hope you understand why I couldn't share what was going on with me...I spent the past 2 months looking forward to something that I can't have yet because my body isn't working right. And I know it's going to be a few more months until we can think about trying because it'll take a while for the drugs to work. When I hear from Dr. Stever again, I'll let you know what my real problem is...and what the next step is so that we can have a little one sometime soon.

Saturday Fun!

2009-03-07T20:55:00.004-05:00

Today we slept in a little bit and vegged around the house for a while...It was so nice today that we couldn't stand the thought of staying home...so we ran lots of errands.

We went to Wal*Mart around 2 and got my oil changed...It hasn't been done in, I don't know...a year? Terrible, I know...but I didn't have the money or the time. We just drove it over there today and then ran the rest of our errands.

Something that I haven't taken a picture of at our new house is the pretty patio in the middle of our yard. It has a pergola over the whole thing. I love it and can't wait to spend the summer under it!

We went to Big Lots and got PATIO FURNITURE!!!! I'm so excited. A lot of people don't think very highly of Big Lots, it seems, but I love it. I get sucked in every time I walk in there. We've been talking about getting patio furniture since we moved in, but we looked online this morning and decided that we should get it. We used money from our savings...which is money left from the wedding and from Bobby's tax refund (I still need to do mine). I can't wait until the weather stays nice permanently. Anyway...here's the new furniture! (We didn't get the umbrella...don't need it under the pergola)

We also got new cushions for the wicker furniture that Troy and Chantelle left for us. They're really cute, too! Here they are!
It's hard to see what the colors are, but they're brown, red, orange, cream, and green! I looooove them, and they'll be so cute with our white wicker love seat and chair. I can't wait!

We also went to the mall today and I got some new dress pants. All of my old ones are falling apart because they're so old. I'm excited about the clothes that I got. They're a nice addition to my wardrobe!

At about 5, we went back to Wal*Mart, paid for my car and did some grocery shopping. I HATE grocery shopping, but we needed some stuff pretty badly. We came home after that and have been doing stuff around the house, little by little. It's been a good day.

Time to do some more cleaning! Ciao bella!

I'd hate to disappoint you!

2009-03-06T20:31:00.003-05:00

Sooo...yesterday I subbed for a Learning Support teacher. Oh what fun that was. Let me tell you. I have a great appreciation for people in special education. Those teachers have so much patience and can tollerate so much. I spent most of the day correcting word mispronunciations, doing basic math problems, and taking social studies notes so that the learning support kids had them in their notebooks. Learning support is difficult for me, because some of those kids can do the things that "average" students can do, they just don't try. Maybe it's because they have a ADD or ADHD or because they're a little slower than most of the other kids their age...but if they tried just a little harder and actually cared about something, they could do it and keep up with their peers!

I love working with the Life Skills kids though. They are amazing. While I was doing my second experience during my student teaching, I taught Life Skills music two times a week. It was heartwarming to watch those children actually enjoy making music and singing. Of course, it was all about routine and we did a lot of repetition, but they always understood everything at the end of the day. I can't emphasize how amazing those kids were. I had a lot of apprehension going into my first expreience of teaching the Life Skills class. But after they warmed up to me, I had a lot of fun with them. I miss them.

On the other hand, at Penns Manor, this kids are included in the general music classroom, and are allowed to do whatever they want in the room. If they were put into their own class, they would be better under control and recieve better instruction. The teacher-student ratio would be much smaller, and they would get more one on one time. It's possible to do, I think the school district needs to wake up!

Today, I was supposed to be the shop teacher. What a scary thing that would have been for me. I was sooooo worried going into the school this morning. The teachers are to leave plans for the day, but who knows what that shop teacher would have left for me. I was afraid I would have to monitor kids using power tools and that frightened me because those are machines that I would have no control over and couldn't prevent anything from happening.

I ended up subbing for the high school general music/chorus teacher. I didn't get to do any actual teaching, and it was quite boring. The kids read articles and summarized what they read, had a study hall, or played guitar. It was a waste of my time...though I did read more of my book Eat, Pray, Love . Which, I have to say, is an awesome book. It's very enlightening. If you haven't read it, you should.

Tonight, I worked at the office when I got back from the school. I was so tired, I couldn't stay for long. We just had dinner from Venice Cafe. That's the second time we've eaten there, and it's very good! They have a huge selection of Italian deliciousness. Try it! Of course...we forgot that the Meadows opened today...not that we would've been able to get close to the counter. I'm sure they were packed tonight!

Long time gone!

2009-03-03T16:21:00.005-05:00

It's been two weeks since I've updated you all on my life. Not that it's that exciting, but I've been busy!

The 16th-22nd, I subbed one day, and worked a lot of extra hours at the office. Other than that...nothing really went on.

The 23rd-29th, I was really busy. I subbed every day at Penns Manor Elementary and worked from 4-8 or 9 at the office. We got moved on Monday and have been here for a week now.

Monday & Friday I was in for the General Music teacher. That was so much fun. The person who is there is an IDIOT! I can't stand her, or her teaching methods. I wish she would retire, but she has at least 10 more years to go...she's only 55. She'll probably die teaching. It would be the perfect job for me!

Tuesday, I was a 6th grade SCIENCE teacher. That was a little scary! I am not a science person, at all. The kids were pretty great with only a few trouble makers, who lost their play time.

Wednesday, I floated...meaning, I walked from room to room and grabbed things from teachers to copy. Well...the damn copy machine jammed up all day long and it wasn't my fault. I had been pulling out the pieces of paper that were getting jammed and I tried to be polite and let another teacher go in front of me and get her 1 copy made. Well, the machine jammed for her, and she didn't clear the paper out. Then it happened again, and again, and again...she didn't clear out the paper. and never got her copy! When it was my turn to use it again the machine had so much paper stuck in it that the principals secretary had to come over and pull pieces out of the machine and turn it off so it could cool down and we could get the paper out. I was so mad. It wasn't my fault!

Thursday was quite a day! I subbed for the WORST 3rd grade room in the grade. The kids couldn't sit still in their chairs. One boy in particular got up out of his chair everytime I turned around to write something on the board and walked to the other side of the room. I'd look up and he'd be moved from the right side of the room to the left. It made me so mad. He did it constantly! The other child who made me angry would tilt her chair back in the back 2 legs and rest her head on the childs desk behind her. One time I caught her standing on her head! I took her chair from her and sat on it in the front of the room. I warned her 3 times...so she lost her chair! It was a very trying day for me. I'm not sure I could handle that room again!

It was quite a week, but I would do it again. I've totally rethought my plans for teaching. The amount of time I've spent with the elementary students out of the music classroom has been amazing. They are so sweet and kind...well, most of them. They get excited about new fun things and can be so innocent. I think I'm going to get my masters in Elem. Ed. It will increase my chances of getting employed closer to Indiana. We'll see...I don't know that I want to take out another loan just yet, but I know I'll have to do it eventually.

We're about to have dinner...it's 9:15...kinda late, but we both took a nap after work. I'm exhausted!!!!

Toni tagged me

2009-02-17T22:42:00.003-05:00

Well, I've been tagged by Toni. I'm supposed to post a picture and tag people to do this too...
Here are the rules:
1. Go to where you store your digital photos and open the 4th folder.
2. Post the 4th picture in that folder.
3. Explain the picture.
4. Tag 4 people.

And the picture is.....

This is my "baby," Maverick. He's our almost 3-year old Black Lab. I have a ton of pictures of him on my computer. He looks so happy here! I almost never get a good shot of him because he hates to have his picture taken.

I don't really know who to tag...so I'll tag Teri, Steph, Ben, and that's it....because I don't think anyone else reads my blog that has one. Other than Toni, who tagged me. How sad.

There isn't really much else going on in our happy little lives right now. My office is moving locations this weekend. We're moving because when our building was sold to the town asshole who owns half of the buildings down town, he raised our rent by 3 times the amount we were paying previously. So now we're moving to Homer City into a much smaller building, that looks like a house. It's a little bit of a farther drive for me, but I think it'll be good for everyone!

Well...that's it. Peace out girl scout

Warm weather

2009-02-11T18:24:00.005-05:00

Well, it was absolutely gorgeous today. It was sunny and 64 degrees! When I got home from work today, I put on some sweats and took Maverick for a walk. I think we both needed it. He's completely exhausted now, poor thing. Well, at least I got a walk in today...because now that it's dark, the sky is getting cloudy and the winds are getting stronger. They're calling for thunderstorms, which is completely awesome because I LOVE thunderstorms.

Last night's dinner was a hit. I made Sloppy Hot Wing Joes. It's a Rachel Ray recipe. Fran got me her newest cookbook for Christmas - "Big Orange Book" or "BOB" as Rachel Ray calls it...I don't particularly care for her...but I love the food she makes.

Here's the recipe. (I cut everything in half since it was for the two of us.)
SLOPPY HOT WING JOES
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 pounds ground chicken or turkey breast
1 carrot, peeled and chopped or grated
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 to 1/3 cup hot sauce >>>I would go on the heavy side with the hot sauce, it cuts down on the sweetness and I like hot food<<<
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup chicken stock
6 good quality burger rolls, split and toasted
1 cup blue cheese crumbles
2 large dill pickles, chopped

Heat a large skillet with extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add meat and break it up with wooden spoon, cook 5 to 6 minutes. Add in carrots, celery, onions and garlic, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, cook 7 to 8 minutes more. In a bowl combine the vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire, hot sauce, tomato sauce and stock. Pour into the pan and stir to combine. Simmer a few minutes more. Pile sloppy Buffalo filling onto buns and top with blue cheese and chopped pickles.

Now, we don't like blue cheese, so we omitted that and used our own cheese. We also didn't put pickles on it, just didn't sound good to me. I made homefries with it and some green beans. It was a definite hit. I'll be making it again.

Tonight, I'm making a taco salad. I guess I better go get started before the storms start and we lose power!!! Peace-out girlscout!

Octuplets

2009-02-09T19:33:00.004-05:00

We're watching Entertainment Tonight right now and they were just showing a story about the Octuplets that were born in California. They are so tiny and all so weak. It makes me want to cry when I see them. The doctors aren't even sure that they will all live. How could that woman bring all of those children into the world when she has 6 kids at home and not work??? They asked her how she would be able to provide for them...and she said she'll find a way. Yeah...she'll be on welfare and sucking up government money that could be going someone else...SHE NEEDS TO GET A JOB!! I'm not saying that these children don't deserve the assistance, I'm just upset with the woman and the doctor putting these children's lives at risk.

I understand that the doctor should not have implanted all 8 of the fertilized embryos and it isn't entirely the mother's fault. But...there are people in this world that can't have children and would love to have one of those babies who are fighting for their lives.
I would love to have one of those beautiful babies and provide them with an uncrowded home where I could provide them with food and clothing and a safe place to be.

In other news...DANCING WITH THE STARS starts in a month. They announced all of the new stars last night. I can't believe that Steve-o is going to be on it. He can't possibly take it seriously. I guess we'll see.

OH! And did you see Paula Abdul's dress last night?? If not...here it is, in all of it's hidiousness!

Tonight I made Creamy Ranch Chicken for dinner. It was delicious! Bobby really liked it too. It was so easy...I'll definitely be making it again. In the time it took me to boil the water and cook the pasta, I had everything else done. I would suggest turning the water on right before you start cooking the bacon.
Here's the recipe (from BHG.com):

Ingredients

6 slices bacon
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into bite-size pieces
2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
2 Tbsp. ranch dry salad dressing mix
1-1/4 cups whole milk (I USED SKIM MILK)
3 cups dried medium noodles
1 Tbsp. finely shredded Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Cut bacon into narrow strips. In a large skillet cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Drain bacon on paper towels; discard all but 2 tablespoons drippings.

2. In the same skillet cook chicken in reserved drippings until tender and no longer pink, turning to brown evenly. Sprinkle flour and salad dressing mix over the chicken in the skillet; stir well. Stir in milk. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir 1 minute more. Stir in bacon. Meanwhile, cook noodles according to package directions. Serve chicken mixture with noodles; sprinkle with Parmesan. Makes: 4 servings

Well...the President's on now...I'll be a good US Citizen and watch him, I guess.

25 Random Things...about me

2009-02-05T22:33:00.002-05:00

So this thing is all over Facebook...The idea is that if someone does it, they tag you and make you do it, too. Then you tag someone else. Well, I was tagged 5 times and it took me a week to do it, but I finished it tonight. So I thought I would post it here too...since I haven't posted in nearly a week. Happy reading

1. I dislike the color purple. I refused to wear it, with one exception. And that was for AJ and Brad's wedding, in Hawaii.

2. I'm a substitute teacher for 2 school districts, Westmont Hilltop in Johnstown, and Penns Manor. I love working with the kids, and that I can be with a different group of them everyday if I decide...but I'd rather have my own classroom.

3. When I'm not subbing, I work at AmbCoach...it's an ambulance billing company. Basically, if you take an ambulance we get your insurance information and bill your insurance company. It's pretty boring, but it pays my bills.

4. I want to be a mom in the worst way. Too bad Bobby isn't ready, cause we have a spare room that would make a perfect nursery :)

5. I have the names of my children picked out already. Don't ask me what they are...that's TOP SECRET!

6. I'm worried that I won't be able to have my own kids...my mom wasn't supposed to be able to have children, and her doctor told her it would never happen. Well, obviously that didn't happen...but what if it does to me?!

7. I don't have the best relationship with my parents. I think it's because they both worked so much when we were younger and I didn't get to spend enough time with them...I do try to talk to my mom everyday...even if it's for 2 minutes. At least we're trying.

8. I have a baby brother. We aren't really that close either. I wish I could change that, but we're just totally different people and have busy lives, so it makes things hard.

9. Unlike most people...I get along really well with my mother-in-law. She's awesome!

10. My sisters-in-law are awesome too. I couldn't ever ask for two better sisters or friends.

11. I have a scar on my chin from when I was 2. I fell between two stairs on a sliding board and landed on a platform...chin first. I cracked my chin open and all of my molars were cracked, too. I had most of them pulled and had 10 stitches in my chin.

12. I like to make jewelry. I've made a few pieces after I took a class in Arizona over Thanksgiving. I really enjoy it...and thought maybe I'd try selling some pieces eventually.

13. I like to take pictures. I wish I knew how to better use the settings on my camera to get the image I want.

14. My niece, Taryne, is the coolest kid ever. End of story.

15. I still have a dollar bill that's tied into a knot from the bridal dance at our reception. I found it in the bottom of my purse today. I knew it was there...I only have it because I can't get it untied...and we found it in the couch the week we moved into our new house.

16. I carry a leatherman/multi tool from Cabelas around in my purse. Because you never know when you're gong to need needle nose pliers, a knife, screwdriver, or a flashlight! I used it today to fix the zipper pull on my winter coat.

17. I don't sleep well...it takes me hours to fall asleep every night. Of course, to make up for the fact that I fall asleep around 3 am, I sleep until 10...unless I have to sub in the morning.

18. I'm addicted to blogging. I read them everyday...and yes, I have one. I update it at least once a week.

19. Before I die, I want to go to Spain.

20. I listen to a lot of different genres of music. I thank my parents for that.

21. I like to watch TV. I always watch Food Network, HGTV, pretty much everything on ABC, Don't Forget the Lyrics and CASH CAB! **** And yes, I can't forget Lingo. Thanks Teri ****

22. I LOVE to cook. I like to try new recipes, as long as Bobby will eat whatever it is I make...he's really picky though.

23. When I was in Jr. and Sr. High, I had a crush on Bobby's best friends. I didn't even know him then...but they were all in our wedding.

24. Planning our wedding was super stressful, but I'd do it all over again because it was so much fun. I was actually kinda sad that it was over. I miss having something to plan for.

25. I bite my nails and pick at my cuticles. It's a bad habit, but I can't help it.

Here we go Steelers, Here we go!

2009-01-30T20:22:00.002-05:00

I am so excited for the Super Bowl on Sunday!!! I can't wait to watch the Steelers to smash the Cardinals. I guess maybe I shouldn't be too cocky about it though and jinx them. Today was black and gold day at the school, at the office, and I'm sure just about everywhere else in Steeler Nation!

So, in honor of the the Steelers, here's a video of some awesome Pittsburgh area children rocking out to their own Steelers Song - the Pop Rock Six!

Also, check out this video called "Don't Disrespect the Terrible Towel" by Randy Baumann from the DVE Morning Show (102.5 FM, Pittsburgh).

And finally, the official 2008-2009 Here We Go Song with a video

Yes, it's true, I had nothing better to do with my time tonight than watch YouTube Videos on the Steelers. We're having a party on Sunday for the game, so I'm just trying to get myself pumped. Here's the menu for Sunday:

Buffalo Wing Dip
Nachos with Cheese
Meat & Cheese Platter
Coco-Crispy Footballs
Black & Gold Cake (yellow cake with chocolate icing, decorated with Steelers stuff)
BBQ Mini Weenies
Hot Sausage Patties
Halushki
Some kind of cheesy potatoes
Veggies and Dip
Pepperoni Rolls

I'm not making everything, Bobby's mom, sisters and our friend is bringing some of it! I'm pumped!!!

HERE WE GO STEELERS, HERE WE GO!!!!

Progress!

2009-01-28T23:35:00.002-05:00

Yesterday and today, Bobby and I worked on getting things organized around the house. We got my crates up for my crafting area, hung up our shoe storage bags, got another coat rack hung up, and got the kegerator working perfectly, last night. Tonight, we got the new bathroom cabinets hung, our awesome mirror from Aunt Connie and the shot glass curios put up in the dining room, and I put up my big Beatles painting!

The house is coming together nicely...after being here for a month (yesterday). I think the fact that we're having family over for the Super Bowl is making Bobby get his butt in gear. I have been continually working at getting things put away...he's been slow to help, typical of him though. Oh well, I'm excited that he's helping me now :)

I think I'll take pictures tomorrow of the rooms now that they're close to being finished. Maybe...there's lots of tools and stuff in the dining room...he'll have to put those away first.

Tomorrow and Friday I'm subbing at Westmont. I hate the 45 minute drive, but the money is good and it's paying my bills. I hope I don't have a really busy day tomorrow, I know Friday won't be bad at all since it's a half day.

Well, I have to get up early...so I'm headed to bed now. Night!

More jewelry!

2009-01-25T22:42:00.007-05:00

I made another bracelet tonight. Green, black, white, & silver. I don't know if I have anything to wear it with, but I like it!

And I just finished these earrings...maybe 5 minutes ago. I'll hopefully get a chance to make a necklace later this week...depending on what kind of work week I'll have.

Crafty

2009-01-25T17:24:00.005-05:00

I love to craft. I especially like to scrapbook, but it's soooooo time consuming. While we were in Arizona, Noelle, Fran and I learned to make jewelry and it's a lot of fun. It's a lot easier than scrapbooking, and is rewarding because it doesn't take nearly as long to complete and you can wear it!

I made my mom a bracelet for Christmas, but it was too hard for her to put on because of the arthritis in her hands, so I changed the clasp. Here it is!Noelle, Fran, and I went to Michaels today and picked up some new stuff. I came home to get the rest of my beads and to get Maverick...but the roads were slick, so I stayed home instead of going back to Fran's. Bobby, Bob, Derek, and a few other guys are on their way home from a gun raffle now, so hopefully we'll get some dinner when he gets here!

Now I'm watching The DaVinci Code. I never saw it before...it started at 5, and I need to pay more attention to it. Maybe I'll make something else tonight...I could use a new bracelet, we'll see.

Subbing again tomorrow, and working at the office after I get back into town.

Looooooooong day.

2009-01-21T21:18:00.002-05:00

Today I spent my day with fourteen 5 and 6 year-olds, teaching kindergarten. Wow. I love those kids. They are so trusting and untainted by most things in this world. I never really thought about their age in comparison to mine before today. Most of those kids were born in 2003 or 2004. I was in my sophomore year of college when they were born.

One little boy, Domminic, (who I love, love, love!) was telling me that his dad was coming home today from Iraq. He was so excited that his dad was coming home. He doesn't even know why his dad is in Iraq, he wasn't even alive at the start of this war to be able to comprehend why his dad is away from him, fighting for our freedom. Thank you Domminic's dad for what you do for us, we are so fortunate to have others, like you, willing to fight for us. God bless you.

As I sat at my desk tooday, watching the kids play during recess, I thought to myself that I really do want to have kids. These kids were just so heart warming. They randomly hugged me and surprised me all day at how smart and sweet they are. Don't get my wrong, they all have their moments when they test your patience. There were a few kids that are obviously an only child or an older sibling because they take control of things, or some kids that have problems following directs because they are easily distracted. But they are actually good kids when you can get them under control. I don't know how anyone could not want kids if they spent the day with the 14 kids I had in my room today.

After school, I went to the office to work. While there, one of the other ladies I work with was staying late to make up some time. We wound up talking the entire time we were both there, just venting about various things in our lives. I think it was something we both needed, because I left feeling much better about things. I guess I just needed the adult conversation after being with the kids all day.

I got home around 7:45, and Bobby actually cooked dinner for me! I was so excited. Even though it was only spaghetti and deer tenderloin, I didn't have to cook it, so it was great! Now we're both just relaxing for the rest of the night before bed. I need to get some stuff done around the house, but I'm way too tired to even think about dusting or vaccuuming. I just want to relax.
Time to make some hot tea and relax. Night all!

A little bit of life...

2009-01-19T23:04:00.004-05:00

It's hard to believe, but we've been married for 6 months as of today. I can't believe how quickly the time has passed. It seems like the wedding was such a long time ago. We've had a lot of change in 6 months, including moving to our new house. I can only imagine that things will get better for us, and hopefully we'll be bringing a child into our lives soon, which will only make things change more.

I had a dream the other night that we had to ask my dad to watch our little girl, Hannah. We were going out for something and we stopped at my parents house and my dad was home, so we left Hannah with him. That's all I remember from the dream. Maybe it was just that my heart and my brain were working together and my wishes were coming true...at least in my dreams. Hannah is the name my dad had picked out for me, but my mom wanted Sarah, so she won. I now like the name Hannah...I just don't want my child to be called "Hannah Montana," EVER!

We're sitting here tonight watching Paranormal State on A&E, and being freaked out by all of these "haunted" places and spirits. Right now they're doing a thing on a haunted piano. I never really used to believe in this stuff, but I think I do now. I'm supposed to be getting ready for bed, since I'm teaching in the morning. But of course, as always, I'm not tired.

So back to dinner on Friday with Sara and Tyson. I made the meatballs and the potatoes with green beans and dinner turned out AWESOME! Sara and Tyson really liked it, and Bobby actually ate it. He seemed to like it and didn't use his "It's not something I would crave" line...which means he might actually eat it again. I can always tell when he doesn't like something that I've made, or someone else made when he says "It's not something I would crave."
Thanks Toni for the "go suck a fart" insult. I loved that and I may be using it sometime soon.

The STEELERS are going to the SUPER BOWL after beating up on the Ravens. Check out Teri's great pictures from the game HERE. She always take such amazing pictures and these are no exception. If she gets to go to the Super Bowl, I'll be incredibly jealous!!

It has snowed here for the past week and a half and I'm tired of it. I wish that it would just warm up, or we could go away to somewhere warm. I was looking at vacation destinations online yesterday but nothing caught my interest. I want just the two of us to go away somewhere warm and sunny. I just want to lay on the beach and get some sun on my pasty white skin. Other than our honeymoon, we've never had a vacation of our own. We went to Hawaii in March, but that was for a friend's wedding. So we weren't on our own. I'd gladly take any suggestions, if anyone has any. I'd like to stay on the East Coast if possible, we don't really have the money to fly anywhere.

So please, if you're reading this, leave me a suggestion as to where we should go on vacation.

Well, I best head to bed. I'm sure the elementary students will be wild tomorrow, so I've gotta get some rest to keep up with them! Goodnight.

It's not been the best day

2009-01-15T18:04:00.006-05:00

I'm not feeling the greatest today...not sick, just down in the dumps.

Sara and Tyson are coming for dinner tomorrow night, and to see the new house, which I'm really excited about...but...I cam home with some great ideas for dinner tomorrow night, that I'd really like to try, but Mr. I'm-too-picky-to-try-something-new totally shot me down. I want to make turkey meatballs with a little bit of spinach in them, along with a great cheese sauce, over a bed of pasta, and a potato-green bean salad to go with the meatballs. He said "I'll eat the pasta..." which made me so angry because he won't try anything new.
I'm so frustrated. I can't make something new because he won't eat it. Which means I'm stuck eating spaghetti and meatballs, or alfredo, or pizza because he won't try something even once.
I am almost ready to cry over something as simple as a dinner with friends. Ugh!

I think I'm just going to make it and he'll have to get over it. If he doesn't eat it, it's not my problem. He can just be hungry.

I have to go to the grocery store to pick up a few things...here are the recipes, courtesy of RachelRayMag.com

Super-Size Turkey Meatballs with Spinach and Cheese
Rachael Ray
30-Minute Meals

Serves 4
One 10-ounce box frozen chopped spinach, thawed
2 1/2 to 2 2/3 pounds ground turkey breast
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 large egg
1 3/4 cups milk
3/4 cup bread crumbs (3 handfuls)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (2 generous handfuls)
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), for drizzling
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
One 8-ounce package shredded provolone cheese or Italian cheese blend
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (eyeball it)
1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°. Wring the spinach dry in a clean kitchen towel. Place the ground turkey in a large bowl and make a well in the middle of the turkey. Add the spinach, half of the onion, the garlic, the egg, 1/4 cup of the milk, the bread crumbs and the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and season with salt and pepper. Mix until combined, then form the turkey mixture into 12 large balls, arrange on a nonstick baking sheet and drizzle with EVOO. Roast for 25 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, heat a small saucepan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of EVOO and the butter to the pan. Melt the butter, add the remaining onion and cook for 2 minutes, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, then whisk in the remaining 1 1/2 cups of milk and the broth. Bring the liquid to a boil, then stir in the provolone. Season the sauce to taste with salt, pepper and the nutmeg.
3. Place 3 turkey meatballs on each of 4 dinner plates and drizzle with the sauce; garnish with the parsley and serve.

Balsamic Potato and Green Bean Salad
Tara Bench
EIGHT SERVINGS
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 20 min

Ingredients:
1 ½ pounds small new potatoes
Salt
10 ounces green beans, trimmed and halved crosswise
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon sugar
¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon pepper
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 scallions, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, plus whole sprigs for garnish

Directions:
1. In a large saucepan, place the potatoes, 2 teaspoons salt and enough water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Add the green beans and cook for 3 minutes. Drain and let stand.
2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, mustard, pepper and 1 teaspoon salt. Whisk in the olive oil until combined.
3. Toss the potatoes and beans with the dressing to coat. Using a fork, mash several potatoes. Toss in the scallions and thyme. Season with more salt and pepper to taste and top with thyme sprigs. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Sounds good to me!!!

Off to grocery shop!

High Hopes!

2009-01-14T20:46:00.003-05:00

I'm sitting on the couch watching American Idol...some of these people are super scary. Why some of them would think they could sing at all is beyond me, they've all got high expectations and aren't going to get anywhere!

Speaking of High Hopes....I saw the link to this video on my friend Steph's blog. It's called Pittsburgh Steelers: Unstopable.
I thought I'd share it with ya'll. Pittsburgh's going to the Super Bowl, Baby!

I uploaded pictures of the house onto photobucket tonight. For now, you can view them here.
Hopefully this weekend, I'll tackle the spare bedroom. I need to take some pictures of the basement/man room/craft room to share, too.

Just an inch??

2009-01-13T14:43:00.002-05:00

They say we're supposed to only get an inch of snow, but I'd say we got at least an inch already, and it's stiiiiillllll snowing!

I was excited when we got a heavy storm over the weekend, but now I'm over the coldness and snow!

Today our friend, who works for Verizon, came to the house to hook up the internet. I'm hoping that when I get home my lap top will work and I can begin to post some pictures of the house - before and after. Bobby said that Maverick actually went down into the basement with him today. After 2.5 weeks, the big baby actually walked down the stairs himself, instead of one of us carrying his big 85 lb pain-in-the-ass down the stairs.
Last night we saw an airplane and a hellicopter take off, basically in our front yard. It was kinda cool. I'm pretty sure it'll be a regular accurance, and we'll get sick of watching it, but for now, it's neat.

Our basement is nearing completion. The pool table is set up, and all of the neons that Bobby got for Christmas, and bought for himself afterward are on the walls. My crafting area should be done soon and then it'll be on to straightening up the storage room, which is a cluttered mess right now. Kinda looks like the spare bedroom, though I did get some of it cleaned up last night. Maybe by the 27th (which will be a month since we moved) We'll have the spare room done!

We still have to get our holliday decorations from the storage space at the apartment, then we're DONE!

Back to work before the ladies get upset. Hopefully I'll post pictures tonight!

Happy (belated) New Year!!

2009-01-07T14:49:00.005-05:00

I can't believe it's 2009 already. Since the wedding it seems like time has flown by so quickly. It's hard to believe that we've been married for nearly 6 months. Seems like so much has changed in this short amount of time.

Yesterday, because of the disgusting ice/rain mix we got, our boss sent us home an hour early. I went home and began cleaning the basement. I swept and moped it entirely. It's now ready for the pool table. I also vaccuumed out the D-I-S-G-U-S-T-I-N-G sofa-bed that was left in the house. I found an entire bag, yes bag, of Cheerios in the cushions! And the sheets (which we were told were brand new) had holes in them and were stained. I was going to wash them and re-use them, but they were not salvageable once I took them off the mattress.

I ordered a clock for the livingroom and it'll be here tomorrow! The one we had in the livingroom, which was a mantle clock, caused an argument because it was "blocking the tv." Though the top of it hardly even covered up the bottom left corner of the tv...the only thing you couldn't see was the little tiny black bar around the tv...oh well. I got to use some gift certificates from Bed Bath & Beyond that I've been hording for months.

This is the clock:

I LOVE IT!!!!!!

Well, I suppose I should finish up some work at the office before someone comes along and tells on me. haha.

More later!

Monday morning at 9 o'clock...

2008-12-29T09:17:00.004-05:00

...as the day begins. I'm sitting at my desk at work, waiting for the mailman to bring me my work for the day. Oh how I love the monotony of opening and copying mail 5 days a week.

We got moved in this weekend! We still have a few things we need to get at the apartment and we should be able to get the last few things today and tomorrow after work. The next few weeks will be sorting through boxes and organizing the rest of the house. So far, I'm loving the extra room. It's just funny, because now we have to search the house for each other. Bobby suggested walkie-talkies...I just laughed.

Yesterday was Noelle's 21st birthday! After moving on Saturday, we took her out at midnight and had a few drinks. We had a good time, and she didn't get sick, which is a definite plus! For her actual birthday, we took her to the Steelers game! It was me, Bobby, Noelle, Derek, his brother Jeff, and JohnAllen. It was awesome! Teri was down on the field and took some awesome pictures, as usual...check these ones out!

This is my favorite! We definitely beat on Cleveland! 31-0.

I just love his smile!

Both photos are by Teri. To view her blog go here.

Well, back to work...I've got a little bit of mail to start with...until 4 days worth comes and is piled upon my desk!!
Happy Monday!

2 days 'til Christmas!

2008-12-23T14:21:00.002-05:00

Today I feel....overwhelmed. Christmas is 2 days away, and we're moving in 4 days. I've been waiting for a check to come from the school district that I worked at 2 weeks ago, and it still hasn't come yet today. If it doesn't come before the bank closes at 7, I'll never finish my shopping... :( I feel terrible, because I've always been to give a lot and do a lot for my family and friends, and this year I'm scraping bottom and I still can't get gifts for everyone. I know that gifts aren't the important part of the holiday...but I like being able to put thought into what I'm going to give people and see the joy on their faces when I give it to them. This year, it just isn't happening. I'm so down in the dumps today!

To top it all off, I think I'm getting sick...unless it's because I was crying so hard this morning about the check. I feel like I'm letting everyone down, and I'm not sure how I'm going to pay my bills, either. Bobby says he understands...but I'm not sure if he really does. I can't even afford to put gas in my car, and I'm going to need it in order to move this weekend, and I don't know what I'm going to do!

Oh well, hope you all have a Merry Christmas! I'll update you on the move post-moving day.

I'd rather be exhausted than broke!

2008-12-10T17:28:00.002-05:00

In case you were wondering, Jen and Ben's wedding was wonderful. We had an excellent time - except for the road to the reception being closed because of snow. We took the long way around and ended up at the reception an hour after we left the church!!

Since Monday, I've been subbing at a local school district from 8am until 3:45pm, then driving into town, working at the office from 4-ish until 8, then going to our new house and working. I'll be doing it again tomorrow, then I'll be finished subbing for the week!
At the beginning of the week, Bobby said to me "Don't exhaust yourself." I didn't think it was going to be too bad...but now that we're half way through the week, it's starting to really get to me.

I'm tired, my legs are aching from standing all day at school, and I just want to take a nap. But I must press on and get to the end of this week. I had to put the extra hours in at the office because I was worried about not having the money to pay my bills for the month - hence why I'd rather be exhuasted than broke. There's always the weekend to sleep in a little bit!

Things are going pretty well at the house. We got all the wall paper stripped from the 2 bathrooms, and the master bedroom. Took down all of the rotted curtain rods, and Bobby and his dad patched holes in the ceilings. Tonight, I'll be scrubbing walls, windows, and baseboards. Hopefully we can tape things off and start painting the bathrooms!

I keep promising pictures, and as soon as MY laptop decides it wants to connect to the internet I'll get some posted.

super quick!!!!

2008-12-04T16:55:00.002-05:00

Suuuuuuuper quick update.

Arizona - Amazing!!!! I will post pictures asap. It was beautiful and awesome and warm and NOT PENNSYLVANIA!!!

This weekend - Jenni & Ben's Wedding Weekend of Fun!!!

Tonight the tree is going up!

Other news...WE'RE MOVING!!!! I am so excited! I'll be updating with all of the info when I have more time at work! Hopefully I'll be able to show you all the changes I'm making, including painting and the layout. I'll have to take a few pictures of our tiny apartment to show you how much more room we're getting in the new place!!

That's all for now...time to leave work!

The next two weeks.

2008-11-22T11:16:00.002-05:00

Things have been crazy lately, and they aren't going to ease up anytime soon.

Last night we had Jen & Ben's Bachelor/Bachelorette Party at Bobby's mom & dad's house. The boys weren't so happy about having a joint party, but after we all got something to eat, the girls went to the livingroom and the boys stayed in the kitchen & dinning room. The boys also built a fire and hung out in the snow for a while.
We gave ourselves facials and pedicures and played the board game, Apples to Apples. We all ended up together again at the end of the night.

Today, my cousins Liz and Rachel are coming with Liz's boyfriend Emerson. We're having Quesadillas and Margaritas night. Bobby's idea...he just invited them over without consulting me...this time, it's okay because I miss the girls and he at least gave me a weeks notice.

Oh! And my camera was fixed by Olympus and was shipped to me on Thursday, so I'll probably have it on monday...just in time for next week!

In the coming week - THANKSGIVING!!!
While I love Thanksgiving normally, this year is going to be even better! We're going to Tucson, Arizona to stay with Bobby & Bob's boss. She has invited the two of us, Bobby's parents, and his sister, Noelle & her boyfriend Derek. We're all really excited to go, and I think we all need the break from real life. We'll be flying out on Thanksgiving morning and come back on Monday, December 1st. Of course I'll be taking a TON of pictures, so I'll post them when we get back!

The week after - Jen & Ben's wedding!
Jen and Ben are getting married on Saturday, December 6th. I know it's going to be a beautiful day for the two of them. Bobby & I are in the wedding, along with Noelle & Derek, and Bobby's older sister, Janelle and her daughter, Taryne, is the flower girl!

There isn't too much else going on. We'll be putting up our Christmas decorations when we get back from Arizona, look for pictures when we get that done!

Until next time...

Chris and Anna Grafton

2008-11-11T21:13:00.004-05:00

Chris and Anna were married on November 1st at Zion Lutheran Church, in Indiana. As I said in my earlier post, the wedding was beautiful, and as you can see, so were the bride and groom! My flash stopped working half way through the day, so forgive some of the dark photos.

Another shot of the beautiful couple.

The Beautiful Bridal Party

My Favorite boys! My husband, Bobby and our "brothers" JohnAllen, Chris, and Jeff.

The best friends I could ever ask for. Bobby(DH), Me, Jeff, Ben, Erika, JohnAllen and Diana

While we're on the subject of weddings...my in-laws celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on the 4th. They're such wonderful, amazing, and loving people. I couldn't ask for better in-laws. They open their home and hearts to everyone they meet. I love them, and I look to them for inspiration for our marriage every day. They've been through it all and I can only hope that we can hold it together as well as they have.
So on that note, Happy Anniversary Bob and Fran! I love you guys so much!

An update.

2008-11-11T15:19:00.004-05:00

My computer still is not working...go figure. I did however, get my computer to connect to the internet today, so there's still hope for it. At least I have access to one at work, but I try not to do too much personal computing while I'm here. But, it's a slow afternoon, and there was no mail today, so I'm updating!

Our friends Chris and Anna got married last Saturday, the 1st. The wedding was beautiful, I definitely cried!

I got some great photos of all of us together, especially of the goofy guys. Maybe if my computer is still working when I get home tonight, I'll give posting some a try.

We had an excellent time and got to spend some time with our closest friends who have moved out of state. It was good to see everyone, and while we were all extremely emotional, I think it was exactly what we needed. JohnAllen & Diana are still living in Kentucky and they are trying desperately to get home. Jeff is still in LA and I'm thinking he's about ready to come back to the eastern part of the country, too. We know he doesn't want to come back to Indiana, but it would be nice to have him a little closer to us, even if it is DC. We can always visit!

Diana called last night, she started asking when we were going to give her a niece or nephew. I told her I would do what I can, but it's not completely up to me :) I told her she had Cooper - Ben & Erika's little one - but she said that isn't enough. She said it was up to me, or she was going to start hounding Anna next.

On another note, we talked to a psychic on Sunday. I talked to her almost exactly 2 years ago and she is very interesting. She told me that we would be moving into a house in about 6-8 months. She told Bobby that our move would be locally, as our "roots run too deep in this area."
Not that I'm taking her word as the absolute truth, but it kind of gives us something to look forward to.

MIA

2008-10-17T16:22:00.003-04:00

I know, I've been MIA...we've been busy and my computer STILL isn't working very well. I think my processor is going to go soon :(
So the schedule thing is still working, but I'm finding that my evenings are still getting away from me and I'm not getting the things done that I need to.

Right now I'm at work and bored out of my mind! The song "Voices" by Chris Young is on the radio, and it makes me laugh so hard. The only thing I ever hear him say is "I hear voices all the time." Makes me think the guy is crazy

Things between the hubby and I are getting a lot better. We've been having great date nights and I'm loving that I'm hormone free!!! My life has been a lot better without the birth control. It's a little scary at times to think that I could get pregnant if we aren't too careful. But, I know God wouldn't give us anything that we can't handle, so when it happens, I know things will be alright. To be honest, I would love to have a child soon, but I know hubby isn't ready.

It's working...slowly

2008-10-02T23:46:00.002-04:00

Well, I've been following a cleaning schedule and doing my meal planning. Things have been going a little better. Though hubby still isn't helping me with much.
My meal plans are working...sort of. I have them written down and I'm trying to stick to it, but our mothers have been feeding us this week, and so my days have gotten bumped around a little bit.

My computer hasn't been working very well lately, so now I'm using hubby's computer while he's napping and can only be on for a little while at a time. I've been missing thenest.com and reading my daily blogs. Maybe I can do a little catching up while he's asleep.

We made the decision that I would go off of Birth Control last Sunday (Sept 21st) and things have gotten a bit better for us. For us being newlyweds, I was having NOOOOO desires for sex and our relationship was suffering because of it. I just didn't want anything to do with him. As we approach the end of the second week, things are getting much better. I really think I have sunken into a depression, and I'm not liking who I have been lately. I hope that without all of the extra hormones surging through my body that things will get better. I guess it's too early to tell right now - we'll see in the next few months.

I'm beginning to understand...

2008-09-22T17:48:00.005-04:00

...why people have schedules for cleaning and have the need for meal planning.

I'm going to attempt to create a schedule for our home and try the meal planning thing for a while. My husband says "How do I know that I'm going to be hungry for tacos on Tuesday?" And my response to that was "You don't, you're just going to have to eat what I cook!"

We both work all day and come home super tired and want to take a nap. Well, I fight the urge and dive into household chores. If I took a nap everyday, we'd never get anything done around here. I feel that if I can plan ahead for dinners, I won't have to wait until 8 or 9 to have dinner. Hubby on the other hand, takes a nap everyday after work, and would be perfectly content with eating fast food every night. I'm not up for that anymore! Time to take control and do what I need to do! So I'm browsing other blogs and trying to figure out what type of schedule is going to work for me. While doing this, I'm watching foodnetwork and trying to find some recipes to feed Mr. Picky!

This might be fun

2008-09-21T21:51:00.003-04:00

One word answers

Your hair? Up
Your mother? work-a-holic
Your father? stressed
Your favorite thing? chocoalte
Your dream last night? Pearl Jam
Your dream/goal? Teaching
Your favorite drink? Tea
The room you're in? Living
Your ex? none
Your hobby? scrapping
Your fear? cancer
Where do you want to be in 6 years? mothering
Where were you last night? In-laws
What you're not? pretty
Muffins? MMMM
One of your wish list items? house
Time? evening
Where you grew up? indiana
The last thing you did? dinner
Favorite weather? sunny
What are you wearing? pj's
Your favorite book? Sparks
Your TV? FoodNetwork
Your pet? Maverick
Your computer? laptop
Your mood? tired
Missing someone? the "real" me (s0rry...couldn't do one word this time)
Your car? messy
Something you're not wearing? socks
Favorite store? Michaels
Love someone? yes
Your favorite color/shade? yellow
Last thing you ate? chicken
Your life? boring
Your friends? awesome
What are you thinking right now? coldness
What are you doing at this moment? tv
Your summer: favorite
Your relationship status: married
What do you do when you can't sleep? internet
When is the last time you laughed? today
Last time you cried? today

We'll see how this goes

2008-09-20T00:24:00.003-04:00

Well, I thought I would try to start up one of these things and keep tabs on our life. I can't imagine that I'll be posting every day, but I'll try to keep up.

Today is our 2 month anniversary. It's hard to believe that it's been two months already. It seems like the wedding was such a long time ago. It seems tho, that the things that used to irritate me, have only gotten worse.

Maybe it's just me, but I was raised in a house where my brother, parents and myself shared the responsibilities of taking care of our house. My husband was not raised like that. His mom was home with her kids and she was able to do everything for her husband and children. I get so upset that my husband doesn't help me do things around the house like the dishes, laundry, and general cleaning. Why should I have to ask him for help? Why can't he see that I can't do it all by myself and help me do it?? Maybe it's just me and I'm over reacting. Who knows.

More later!