And here are somethings that I wanted but didn't buy due to my amazing willpower.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Small Shopping Spree
So I did a little shopping this weekend and thought I would share what I bought.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Took a day off....sort of
I'm babysitting my nephew Lincoln today. His parents had some work scheduling problems and needed someone to step in for the day so I took off from work. Since they live way out in west I came over last night and slept over so I wouldn't have to wake up too early to get here by 8:30. Stacey had typed up his schedule for the day, and the "How to Make a Bottle 101" instructions. I was glad for it since I didn't really know what they liked. Then we went over everything and I felt confident that I would do whatever I wanted. Just kidding.
Lincoln cried a couple times in the night and then woke up early the next morning. I woke up about eight and Stacey brought him in to me while she got ready for work. He is just a happy baby right after he wakes up. Very playful. So we played for and hour or so and then I gave him a bottle that I made using my hand instructions and then put him down for a nap (his morning nap). He woke up about an hour later and time to play some more. Then bottle and afternoon nap which should last much longer unfortunately he only slept for an hour and was only happy for a little while. Then he started whining. I didn't think he needed changing so I made him a small bottle and hoped that would put him to sleep. Nope. He wanted me to hold him forever and he's gotten quite big so I got tired. After another hour or so I decided to check his diaper again. I couldn't smell anything but he seemed to be happy to think that he was getting changed and then when I didn't he would get upset again. So I said I'll just change it. Yep he needed it, nothing dirty or anything. But he was a lot happier after that and soon I was able to get him to sleep which he is doing now and hopefully will stay that way until his parents come home. It has been really fun though playing with him. I'm happy to watch him. I just never was a very good babysitter. But no major disasters here today. So I think I'll be asked back.
Lincoln cried a couple times in the night and then woke up early the next morning. I woke up about eight and Stacey brought him in to me while she got ready for work. He is just a happy baby right after he wakes up. Very playful. So we played for and hour or so and then I gave him a bottle that I made using my hand instructions and then put him down for a nap (his morning nap). He woke up about an hour later and time to play some more. Then bottle and afternoon nap which should last much longer unfortunately he only slept for an hour and was only happy for a little while. Then he started whining. I didn't think he needed changing so I made him a small bottle and hoped that would put him to sleep. Nope. He wanted me to hold him forever and he's gotten quite big so I got tired. After another hour or so I decided to check his diaper again. I couldn't smell anything but he seemed to be happy to think that he was getting changed and then when I didn't he would get upset again. So I said I'll just change it. Yep he needed it, nothing dirty or anything. But he was a lot happier after that and soon I was able to get him to sleep which he is doing now and hopefully will stay that way until his parents come home. It has been really fun though playing with him. I'm happy to watch him. I just never was a very good babysitter. But no major disasters here today. So I think I'll be asked back.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Cousins Weekend January 2008
Okay Okay, enough already. I will write about the cousins' weekend. It's not like they are that varied in what we do. There is the usual stay up really late talking about whatever and then sleeping the next morning. Eating at various restaurants intermittent with more talking and usually the climax is going to Laughing Stock. But this one was a little different this time.
As we planned for this get together, it was really mine and Cousin Aly's turn to visit Cousin Julie and far off Cedar City. We had not made the journey for almost a year, but Cousin Aly's schooling always got in the way and it seemed would be the case again this time. Fortunately, Cousin Julie was more than agreeable to coming to visit us as there is more to do in the city. Also, we had a new addition to our party. Cousin Katie, Cousin Aly's youngest sister, was to join us.
Cousin Julie arrived a little after eight o'clock and as I was not expecting the other two of our party to arrive for another hour or so, it gave us a chance to have a wonderful chat just ourselves. Though I held back my questions of a certain gentleman that Cousin Julie has been courting until the other young ladies joined us as I knew they would want to hear all as well. And rightly soon after they had arrived and settled in we pushed our dear cousin to reveal all. It is so nice that at least one of us is in courtship, though it would be even nicer if was me, or all of us, of course. We stayed up until all hours of the night had passed talking and gossiping like silly young girls or even just silly women. At some point in the night we felt a sweet tooth come on and tried to go to a favorite ice cream place but unfortunately we missed its closing, or really we couldn't find it. Okay I couldn't find it. So we went to a local cafe that stays open all night. IHOP. Our server wasn't the best and didn't seem happy to be there but I can understand at that time of night. Then we returned home to more talking. But still when we parted for bed it was much earlier than per our usual visits. Maybe we are getting too old to stay up so late.
The next morning, not being a very gracious hostess, I awoke somewhat later than my guests. Cousin Julie was already in the bath, having to scrounge up her own towel. How mortified I was. Cousin Katie was still asleep, though and was hard to arouse when the time came. We all got ready for the day and talked about what we would like to do. We thought it a good idea to plan out our meals for the rest of the weekend so as not to waste time later. The first stop of the day, though it was well past one o'clock was a lovely place called Ruby Tuesday. We were attended to by a most accomodating server, who somewhat flirted with Cousin Julie, I think. Though that did not stop her from trying to convince me to leave my information on a note for him to find. He was not unattractive, I grant you, but it would not be seemly to behave in such a way. Cousin Jule is so bold. I wish I had that in me as well.
Following lunch, which was very good by the way, we considered taking in a show at the theater. After perusing what was playing however, we found nothing to tempt us to spend our money. Then after a small discussion as we drove through town we decided on the lovely sport of bowling. We were being quite active this time around. I hadn't played the game in well over two years. Cousin Julie was adamant that she was just terrible and that we would all severely defeat her in the game but she was looking forward to the fun anyway. The lanes were all full when we arrived so we put our name on the list and decided while we waited that we would play a few harmless games of arcades. It was quite enjoyable as we earned tickets to win prizes with. I came across one game that I had no idea how it worked but spewed tickets quite regularly.
When my name was called over the speaker for our turn to bowl we picked up the multi-colored bowling shoes and made our way to our lane. Number 22, I believe it was. After some difficulty with the computer system not allowing us to enter our names, which Cousin Katie promptly urged managment to fix, we were ready to go with Cousin Aly leading us off. She did fairly well and as we each took a turn we cheered each other on. Cousin Katie was the first to receive a strike, then Cousin Julie, who got a couple I think, and then myself. Poor Cousin Aly came close but I don't recall her ever getting one but she played tolerably well for the most part. In the end Cousin Julie won despite her boasting of being the worst player. Though we chided and teased her we were all very happy and enjoyed ourselves immensely. We used up the rest of our tokens on the arcades and used our winning tickets to get each other little gifts. We received a water pistol, heart tattoo, and a chinese finger trap. Wonderful mementos for the weekend.
Though it was soon to be dinner time we all were craving something sweet and decided to have our dessert first. We went to Cold Stone and got decadent ice cream. It was so lovely. This was the place that we couldn't find the night before but we were successful this time. Afterwards we only had a short time before we needed to be on our way to dinner if we were to make it to the show on time. We decided on California Pizza Kitchen. I ordered my usual of fresh tomatoes and chesse pizza, while the other girls tried something new. Our server this time was all quite handsome and I made the mistake of saying so to Cousin Julie and so she pushed me to again leave my information for him to find. I considered it and had almost decided to do so when I noticed he had the telltale sign of being married. Oh well. He was still a very good server. We made our way to The Off Broadway Theatre to see a comedy show that has become tradition of our visits together. An improv group called Laughing Stock, I'm sure you have heard us speak of it before. We arrived early enough to chat with the theatre's proprieter who also performs in the show. We gave him some requests and he said he would try to fit it in. He is a very nice man to give consequence to four silly girls.
Our seats were in the front row and though one of our favorite performers wasn't there that night our other one was and he always gives a good show. There were a couple other actors who were also very good indeed. I laughed so hard, that tears ran down my cheeks profusely. I cannot remember the best part because it was all very good. It was sad when it ended. I am already looking forward to the next time. We returned home and stayed up as late as we could but we were pretty exhausted by the day's events and bid goodnight to each other.
The next morning we hurried and readied ourselves to go to lunch. I had church later on in the day so I dressed for that while the other ladies put on their travel clothes. Did the time really go by so fast. We went to a local place called Trio Cafe and had a wonderful brunch. We said our goodbyes discussing when we could get together again. It is always so enjoyable to spend time with these wonderful ladies and I always feel so happy when we are together. We have become fast friends as well as cousins. Until next time.
As we planned for this get together, it was really mine and Cousin Aly's turn to visit Cousin Julie and far off Cedar City. We had not made the journey for almost a year, but Cousin Aly's schooling always got in the way and it seemed would be the case again this time. Fortunately, Cousin Julie was more than agreeable to coming to visit us as there is more to do in the city. Also, we had a new addition to our party. Cousin Katie, Cousin Aly's youngest sister, was to join us.
Cousin Julie arrived a little after eight o'clock and as I was not expecting the other two of our party to arrive for another hour or so, it gave us a chance to have a wonderful chat just ourselves. Though I held back my questions of a certain gentleman that Cousin Julie has been courting until the other young ladies joined us as I knew they would want to hear all as well. And rightly soon after they had arrived and settled in we pushed our dear cousin to reveal all. It is so nice that at least one of us is in courtship, though it would be even nicer if was me, or all of us, of course. We stayed up until all hours of the night had passed talking and gossiping like silly young girls or even just silly women. At some point in the night we felt a sweet tooth come on and tried to go to a favorite ice cream place but unfortunately we missed its closing, or really we couldn't find it. Okay I couldn't find it. So we went to a local cafe that stays open all night. IHOP. Our server wasn't the best and didn't seem happy to be there but I can understand at that time of night. Then we returned home to more talking. But still when we parted for bed it was much earlier than per our usual visits. Maybe we are getting too old to stay up so late.
The next morning, not being a very gracious hostess, I awoke somewhat later than my guests. Cousin Julie was already in the bath, having to scrounge up her own towel. How mortified I was. Cousin Katie was still asleep, though and was hard to arouse when the time came. We all got ready for the day and talked about what we would like to do. We thought it a good idea to plan out our meals for the rest of the weekend so as not to waste time later. The first stop of the day, though it was well past one o'clock was a lovely place called Ruby Tuesday. We were attended to by a most accomodating server, who somewhat flirted with Cousin Julie, I think. Though that did not stop her from trying to convince me to leave my information on a note for him to find. He was not unattractive, I grant you, but it would not be seemly to behave in such a way. Cousin Jule is so bold. I wish I had that in me as well.
Following lunch, which was very good by the way, we considered taking in a show at the theater. After perusing what was playing however, we found nothing to tempt us to spend our money. Then after a small discussion as we drove through town we decided on the lovely sport of bowling. We were being quite active this time around. I hadn't played the game in well over two years. Cousin Julie was adamant that she was just terrible and that we would all severely defeat her in the game but she was looking forward to the fun anyway. The lanes were all full when we arrived so we put our name on the list and decided while we waited that we would play a few harmless games of arcades. It was quite enjoyable as we earned tickets to win prizes with. I came across one game that I had no idea how it worked but spewed tickets quite regularly.
When my name was called over the speaker for our turn to bowl we picked up the multi-colored bowling shoes and made our way to our lane. Number 22, I believe it was. After some difficulty with the computer system not allowing us to enter our names, which Cousin Katie promptly urged managment to fix, we were ready to go with Cousin Aly leading us off. She did fairly well and as we each took a turn we cheered each other on. Cousin Katie was the first to receive a strike, then Cousin Julie, who got a couple I think, and then myself. Poor Cousin Aly came close but I don't recall her ever getting one but she played tolerably well for the most part. In the end Cousin Julie won despite her boasting of being the worst player. Though we chided and teased her we were all very happy and enjoyed ourselves immensely. We used up the rest of our tokens on the arcades and used our winning tickets to get each other little gifts. We received a water pistol, heart tattoo, and a chinese finger trap. Wonderful mementos for the weekend.
Though it was soon to be dinner time we all were craving something sweet and decided to have our dessert first. We went to Cold Stone and got decadent ice cream. It was so lovely. This was the place that we couldn't find the night before but we were successful this time. Afterwards we only had a short time before we needed to be on our way to dinner if we were to make it to the show on time. We decided on California Pizza Kitchen. I ordered my usual of fresh tomatoes and chesse pizza, while the other girls tried something new. Our server this time was all quite handsome and I made the mistake of saying so to Cousin Julie and so she pushed me to again leave my information for him to find. I considered it and had almost decided to do so when I noticed he had the telltale sign of being married. Oh well. He was still a very good server. We made our way to The Off Broadway Theatre to see a comedy show that has become tradition of our visits together. An improv group called Laughing Stock, I'm sure you have heard us speak of it before. We arrived early enough to chat with the theatre's proprieter who also performs in the show. We gave him some requests and he said he would try to fit it in. He is a very nice man to give consequence to four silly girls.
Our seats were in the front row and though one of our favorite performers wasn't there that night our other one was and he always gives a good show. There were a couple other actors who were also very good indeed. I laughed so hard, that tears ran down my cheeks profusely. I cannot remember the best part because it was all very good. It was sad when it ended. I am already looking forward to the next time. We returned home and stayed up as late as we could but we were pretty exhausted by the day's events and bid goodnight to each other.
The next morning we hurried and readied ourselves to go to lunch. I had church later on in the day so I dressed for that while the other ladies put on their travel clothes. Did the time really go by so fast. We went to a local place called Trio Cafe and had a wonderful brunch. We said our goodbyes discussing when we could get together again. It is always so enjoyable to spend time with these wonderful ladies and I always feel so happy when we are together. We have become fast friends as well as cousins. Until next time.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Wishful Thinking for 2008
I've been thinking a lot about things that I want to accomplish this year. Of course there is the never-changing goal of losing weight. New plan on that is the Slim Fast diet. Haven't seen any results yet (cousin's weekend probably killed that) other than I haven't eaten out as much as I usually do. Last night I was so tempted, but made some chili instead, probably only slightly more healthy but I did save money as well. Which is a good thing because my overdraft protection went into use last night. Pay day really needs to come. I may start to exercise in the spring.
As you will notice from my title, these are not resolutions, as I am not resolved to do them (I'm sure I've mentioned my lack of will power numerous times on this blog). These are just things I wish to do and if they come true then happy times for me. So here we go.
-Improve on skills already learned.
I want to learn a new piece and play it well on both the piano and guitar. Right now I am trying to teach myself "Fur Elise." which some might say is really easy. I have the main melody down, it is just the intermittent part that I am struggling with. I have signed up for the third class in cake decorating which I think will be fun and I want to make a cake at least once a month for practice purposes. More sewing, a sewing project every month. It could be a project that takes a few months but that I give it a good amount of time at least once a month. And of course photography. I may take a community class later this year. We'll see.
-Invite others along to things I normally do by myself.
This mainly has to do with movies. On Saturdays or even weeknight evenings I'll just go see a movie without telling anyone. Sometimes I think it's fun to go by myself, but then most times I just think that no one would want to go, but it would fun to have someone. This went into effect a couple weeks ago when I did a double feature on Saturday to see Atonement and Dan in Real Life. I sent out an email to friends and though some were interested but already had plans. I went to Atonement by myself and then Melanie came to Dan in Real Life with me. I was so glad she did. She and I haven't had a chance to hang out much and it was so much fun. We both loved the movie and then decided to get some dinner at Olive Garden and caught up on whatever was going on in our lives. Then we ran to Target to return some things and then Walmart for grocery shopping. It really can be so fun to do simple things with another person. Then back to her house to watch an Australian sitcom she had gotten for Christmas. It was a really good day. So hopefully this plan will provide more of those.
-Cook More, Eat Out Less.
Obvious exceptions are when family or friends visit. Though I wouldn't mind cooking for them if they wanted. Not only will this hopefully be healthier (okay I bought frozen fries to cook but sparingly) but also save me some money.
-Try again, things that fell by the wayside last year.
Musical nights, we had one last night. They are usually up to Loralee when we have them because she has more of a life then the rest of us. So these maybe sporadic and only monthly but that's okay. Drawing dinners. I do really want to start this again but it will only be monthly this time. I did cook dinner for Loralee, David and our friend Jonathan so I'll count that for January. Better get planning for February. Scripture reading and praying are always goals that I have but can't seem to stick to. I usually read scriptures during Sacrament meeting and at times I feel that that gives me my fix for the week. It may take years but I will finish the Book of Mormon sometime.
-Show Some Restraint When it comes to Spending.
Seriously did I need all three 2008 calendars that go in my office? Well, I am not having one at home. I still will probably buy movies that I really want on their first week of release unless they keep up this farce of not reducing the price on the first week like they usually do. But I really don't need anymore shoes, skirts (except maybe a cute red one) or jackets. Maybe tops, but sparingly and with good reason for use, like for work.
-Take better care of my car.
I tend to drive my car haphazardly, mainly because it is old and I don't care about it other than I don't have a car payment and can save money for a newer, better one someday. But I would like it to last a little longer (maybe another year). And if I start to treat it well, I'll be in practice for my next car. Also, I want to try to ride the bus at least once a week. That hasn't happened yet, but I'm going to really try starting next week.
So I think that's it. My wishful thoughts for 2008. Cross your fingers that they come true.
As you will notice from my title, these are not resolutions, as I am not resolved to do them (I'm sure I've mentioned my lack of will power numerous times on this blog). These are just things I wish to do and if they come true then happy times for me. So here we go.
-Improve on skills already learned.
I want to learn a new piece and play it well on both the piano and guitar. Right now I am trying to teach myself "Fur Elise." which some might say is really easy. I have the main melody down, it is just the intermittent part that I am struggling with. I have signed up for the third class in cake decorating which I think will be fun and I want to make a cake at least once a month for practice purposes. More sewing, a sewing project every month. It could be a project that takes a few months but that I give it a good amount of time at least once a month. And of course photography. I may take a community class later this year. We'll see.
-Invite others along to things I normally do by myself.
This mainly has to do with movies. On Saturdays or even weeknight evenings I'll just go see a movie without telling anyone. Sometimes I think it's fun to go by myself, but then most times I just think that no one would want to go, but it would fun to have someone. This went into effect a couple weeks ago when I did a double feature on Saturday to see Atonement and Dan in Real Life. I sent out an email to friends and though some were interested but already had plans. I went to Atonement by myself and then Melanie came to Dan in Real Life with me. I was so glad she did. She and I haven't had a chance to hang out much and it was so much fun. We both loved the movie and then decided to get some dinner at Olive Garden and caught up on whatever was going on in our lives. Then we ran to Target to return some things and then Walmart for grocery shopping. It really can be so fun to do simple things with another person. Then back to her house to watch an Australian sitcom she had gotten for Christmas. It was a really good day. So hopefully this plan will provide more of those.
-Cook More, Eat Out Less.
Obvious exceptions are when family or friends visit. Though I wouldn't mind cooking for them if they wanted. Not only will this hopefully be healthier (okay I bought frozen fries to cook but sparingly) but also save me some money.
-Try again, things that fell by the wayside last year.
Musical nights, we had one last night. They are usually up to Loralee when we have them because she has more of a life then the rest of us. So these maybe sporadic and only monthly but that's okay. Drawing dinners. I do really want to start this again but it will only be monthly this time. I did cook dinner for Loralee, David and our friend Jonathan so I'll count that for January. Better get planning for February. Scripture reading and praying are always goals that I have but can't seem to stick to. I usually read scriptures during Sacrament meeting and at times I feel that that gives me my fix for the week. It may take years but I will finish the Book of Mormon sometime.
-Show Some Restraint When it comes to Spending.
Seriously did I need all three 2008 calendars that go in my office? Well, I am not having one at home. I still will probably buy movies that I really want on their first week of release unless they keep up this farce of not reducing the price on the first week like they usually do. But I really don't need anymore shoes, skirts (except maybe a cute red one) or jackets. Maybe tops, but sparingly and with good reason for use, like for work.
-Take better care of my car.
I tend to drive my car haphazardly, mainly because it is old and I don't care about it other than I don't have a car payment and can save money for a newer, better one someday. But I would like it to last a little longer (maybe another year). And if I start to treat it well, I'll be in practice for my next car. Also, I want to try to ride the bus at least once a week. That hasn't happened yet, but I'm going to really try starting next week.
So I think that's it. My wishful thoughts for 2008. Cross your fingers that they come true.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
2007 Wrap Up
I could tell you how my holidays went but it was mostly uneventful and a lot of family time. Having fun playing games and eating and staying up late and sleeping in and guitar hero. I received everything that is pictured on the left above the Walmart Armoire and a lot of things from my Amazon.com wish list so thanks everyone who gave me one. I think the slippers and a painting from Loralee were my favorite gifts. So that is how my holidays went.
I had made a comment on Julie's wrap up post, how her year sounded so interesting and mine didn't seem that way at all. After I had hit save, though I began to think about all the things I have done this year. I didn't travel really at all, not anywhere new. I had no boyfriends or kisses or any of that good stuff. I'm at the same job doing the same thing (other than I was technically promoted which only really changed my pay grade, but hey I'll take it.) So here are some things that I did do.
Movies seen in Theatres: 25. Of those my favorite was Lars and the Real Girl
Movies Bought: 30+. I'm not too sure of the exact number since some movies were old and I can't remember when I bought them. Like North and South, was that this year or last year? I don't know.
2007 movies that I still want to see: Atonement, Dan in Real Life, Sweeney Todd & 3:10 to Yuma.
Number of Books Read: 24. Of those my favorites were the Twilight Series, Time Traveler's Wife, and Believing Christ
New Things Learned:
Hip Hop (now forgotten)
Guitar (bought my own and took some lessons, now I just play around a little)
How to be a good hostess (still learning that, never quite perfected it)
New Recipes (30 minutes or less)
Cake Decorating (still course 3 to go)
Re-learned sewing
Started and Ended:
Drawing Dinners (I hope to start it up again but maybe not until February)
My piano lessons ended (that was really sad for me)
Numerous diets and exercises regimes.
Weekly musical night with Loralee (maybe we can get that going again)
Favorite Compliments received:
"Your so cool, when you want to learn something you just go out and learn it."
"I love your laugh."
Favorite Memories:
Brian Regan show with Loralee and Aly (I was just dying laughing)
Performing our hip hop routine with Loralee in front of our book club group sans music
Shakespeare festival and star gazing at Brian Vaughn with Julie (best show was Lend Me a Tenor)
All night conversations with Aly & Julie.
Lagoon with Mom, Aly & Katie.
St. George trip with my book club gals.
Holding my nephew the first time and the first time I saw him smile.
I ruined my laughing and spitting streak on New Years Eve. It wasn't too much soda but enough and it was on something not even that funny but just hit me funny and for some reason still makes me laugh to this moment. Thus began a lot of laughing that night.
I had made a comment on Julie's wrap up post, how her year sounded so interesting and mine didn't seem that way at all. After I had hit save, though I began to think about all the things I have done this year. I didn't travel really at all, not anywhere new. I had no boyfriends or kisses or any of that good stuff. I'm at the same job doing the same thing (other than I was technically promoted which only really changed my pay grade, but hey I'll take it.) So here are some things that I did do.
Movies seen in Theatres: 25. Of those my favorite was Lars and the Real Girl
Movies Bought: 30+. I'm not too sure of the exact number since some movies were old and I can't remember when I bought them. Like North and South, was that this year or last year? I don't know.
2007 movies that I still want to see: Atonement, Dan in Real Life, Sweeney Todd & 3:10 to Yuma.
Number of Books Read: 24. Of those my favorites were the Twilight Series, Time Traveler's Wife, and Believing Christ
New Things Learned:
Hip Hop (now forgotten)
Guitar (bought my own and took some lessons, now I just play around a little)
How to be a good hostess (still learning that, never quite perfected it)
New Recipes (30 minutes or less)
Cake Decorating (still course 3 to go)
Re-learned sewing
Started and Ended:
Drawing Dinners (I hope to start it up again but maybe not until February)
My piano lessons ended (that was really sad for me)
Numerous diets and exercises regimes.
Weekly musical night with Loralee (maybe we can get that going again)
Favorite Compliments received:
"Your so cool, when you want to learn something you just go out and learn it."
"I love your laugh."
Favorite Memories:
Brian Regan show with Loralee and Aly (I was just dying laughing)
Performing our hip hop routine with Loralee in front of our book club group sans music
Shakespeare festival and star gazing at Brian Vaughn with Julie (best show was Lend Me a Tenor)
All night conversations with Aly & Julie.
Lagoon with Mom, Aly & Katie.
St. George trip with my book club gals.
Holding my nephew the first time and the first time I saw him smile.
I ruined my laughing and spitting streak on New Years Eve. It wasn't too much soda but enough and it was on something not even that funny but just hit me funny and for some reason still makes me laugh to this moment. Thus began a lot of laughing that night.
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