{12.28.06}

notes to self

It's four in the morning and I can't sleep, yes even taking two of my pm'ers didn't do the trick. I think i've been in denial with the amount of stress that is piling up: the holidays, the house, the wedding, work and certain friendships. what gives? my health. I can't remember the last time i've been so out of shape, scratch - pregnancy. my treadmill is making a great coat rack in the garage and i have no desire what-so-ever to change its current function. so tonight adam and i have decided to bite the bullet and join the local 24hour fitness center in town. my wedding dress is in and i'm reluctant to try it on when I pick it up this week. i have less than six months to lose this holiday/stress flab and if ordering my dress two sizes smaller isn't motivation enough I don't know what is.

Christmas with my family was blissful and relaxing, as always. brenner was concerned that santa had a cold after hearing my dad outside ringing the cow bell and shouting "ho ho *cough cough* ho" as loud as he could muster. brenner and i built our traditional gingerbread bread house and fell into a sugar coma shortly after. the food was fabulous and sleeping in until 10am every morning was heavenly. i must have been a very good girl this year because santa (adam) got me a new camera. i'm having so much fun taking random snap shots and figuring out all the neato settings.

this Sunday my lauren is getting married. it seems like just yesterday we were living next door to each other, sitting outside and talking about everything for hours. i do miss those times but i look forward to our next season in life - married friends! oh what fun we will have!!!

off to bed, again...less than two hours until the alarm goes off...

***

Note to self: things to avoid 99.9% in 2007...

1. avoid - people who revel in their drama.


2. avoid - embellishers.


3. avoid - procrastinating.


4. avoid - my kitchen.


5. avoid - saying “never” and “always”.


6. avoid - java chip frapucinos.


7. avoid - compulsive organizing and cleaning.


8. avoid - assuming.


9. avoid - petty babble.


10. avoid - drinking too much wine.

{12.22.06}

my week

too much chocolate. too much red wine. not enough time. not enough sleep. crazy drivers. proud moments. stubborn moments. giving friends. white elephant gift party. chocolate thong (ew). found more gray hair. purchased hair color. considered going blonde. bell ringers bug me. i'm over my shoebox. my pharmacist tried to kill me. taking two 24 hour claritin-d daily for a month makes you feel funny and numb. excuses like socks stink. christmas bonus. new carpet. mistaken identities. need new glasses. must pack!!!!!! Merry Christmas.

Holiday cheer and giggles with Holly and Jen.

{12.20.06}

it's wednesday...

five days until christmas and here sits on my desk window greeting cards for horizontal photos and i had vertical photos printed. groovy! so either i go out and search for half way decent cards or bag the whole thing and post our photo online. the good news is that i have all my gifts purchased and wrapped, thanks to brenner. he was quite the helper this year and offered (actually begged until i caved) to help. he also thought it would be super helpful and giving to wrap all his toys to re-gift with my good wrapping paper while I was in the shower one morning. I love his heart.

the house is finally making some progress. Yesterday we had the carpets replaced in the living room and office and the work to replace the hard wood floors is scheduled to start today. Adam and I made another trip to World market last night for a few items for the house and last minute stocking stuffers. after shopping we went to the movies to see "The pursuit of happyness". Wow, what an amazing movie that made me stop, think and appreciate everything i've been blessed with.

this year we are spending the christmas holiday at my parents house. going back home has a way of grounding me and puts the stresses of life into perspective. maybe it's the simplicity of my upbringing that brings me back down to a healthy level of living. I'm also very excited that my brother will be coming, it's been far too long since I've seen him. without a doubt i will gain at least five or more pounds eating my mama's goodies and home cookin'. Oh how I love my parents and can't wait to see them.

a little holiday humor...

{12.12.06}

ugly betty flashback

my tongue hurts so much from biting it lately that i'm worried i'll just bite the darn thing off. maybe that wouldn't entirely be a bad thing; i'd lose weight and wouldn't say anything i'd eternally regret. maybe that would explain why i've been grinding my teeth at night and why i now have to wear a mouth guard. I feel like an awkward sixteen year old wearing braces - again! I wasn't fully convinced that I was grinding my teeth until I discovered bite marks on my guard only after one night wearing it.

so i've been thinking about trading in my little honda civic for an suv for quite awhile (a year) now So sunday we made a trip to the honda dealership in bend where i found and fell in love with my new mommy mobile. The new pilot you ask? no. I just couldn't justify paying over $30k for a car. here is what my new ride looks like...

 

***

How to annoy me:

• 
  
  Do a good deed for appearances.
  
  


• 
  
  Use the last q-tip in the house and don't bother to tell me.
  
  


• 
  
  use the last post-it in the office and don't bother to tell me.
  
  


• 
  
  Call me at work to inform me that my child was used as a landing pad by a nine-year-old bully that you weren't obviously watching. Super.
  
  


• 
  
  after i specifically tell you to call and leave a message with a house update, you call and tell me to call you back. what part of leave a message didn't you understand?
  
  

how to charm me:

• 
  
  Tell me that i look sexy in the morning while i'm still wearing my mouth guard.
  
  


• 
  
  Catch me going 35 mph in a 20 mph school zone, recognize me from the chamber and wave on by.
  
  


• 
  
  Give me a big fat raise. finally!
  
  


• 
  
  Make the most hideous facial expression possible that makes me laugh every time, without fail.
  
  


• 
  
  Call me just to say "hi". No favors no questions just "hi".
  
  

{12.8.06}

craziness

i've decided to start a support group for those who are addicted to lip gloss. while taking a short break from staring at my computer screen for hours and hours I decided to organize (shocking isn't it?) my desk drawer today.  I counted eight tubes of lip gloss...eight tubes that I no longer enjoy. that doesn't include the number in my purse, car, desk or bathroom at home. I know it's ridiculous. I can't help but wonder what new glosses are out there and what they can do to make my lips more plump, shiny, colorful and yummy. my all-time favorite: shiny-licious caramelia by maybelline. go figure.

this week has been indescribable. Between the flood in our new house ($$$), THE busiest week at work and dealing with flakey people - i'm done. tomorrow adam and I will attempt to conquer our long to-do list we made and fully enjoy our scheduled date night together. Hopefully john will be able to fit the three of us into his insanely busy schedule for our christmas pictures.

my new favorite picture of brenner...

{12.5.06}

dear santa,

I've been a fairly good girl this year so I've decided to send you my wish list. i'd like the following:

1. 
   
   a stress-o-meter, So when i'm tipping the scale of having a heart attack i'll know when to self medicate.
   
   


2. 
   
   an endless supply of patience.
   
   


3. 
   
   a honda pilot.
   
   


4. 
   
   new bathroom towels for our house because the old ones are ruined from the flood.
   
   


5. 
   
   our house repaired before 2007.
   
   


6. 
   
   to see a wild turkey fly because apparently they can. 
   
   


7. 
   
   to lose 20 pounds so i can ride brenner's new electric scooter you're bringing him.  
   
   


8. 
   
   the ability to multi-task efficiently.
   
   


9. 
   
   one potty trained hamster.
   
   


10. 
    
    all the new Nicholas sparks books i haven't read and the time to read them.
    
    


11. 
    
    a green thumb.
    
    


12. 
    
    good health and happiness for my family and friends.
    
    


13. 
    
    a wedding planner, preferably free.
    
    


14. 
    
    all my christmas shopping done for 2007.
    
    


15. 
    
    my brain, have you seen it?
    
    


16. 
    
    a dryer that can fold and put away my clothes.
    
    


17. 
    
    a raise at work and/or an allowance from Adam.
    
    


18. 
    
    365 dream dinners in my freezer.
    
    


19. 
    
    if #18 isn't available I'll settle for a personal chef, again free.
    
    


20. 
    
    more mommy time.
    
    

Yours truly,

Melissa (Brenner's mom)

{12.1.06}

new month, new outlook

one of my favorite things about starting a new month is flipping over my desk calendar to a new fresh white page free of coffee stains and lunch spills. soon it will be full of appointments and time lines. Boo.

This morning I stayed home for a few hours to collect my thoughts about a few things and while doing so i super cleaned my kitchen and bathroom. i've decided that i don't care much for shower doors. i absolutely can't handle that slimy goo that collects in between the doors. disgusting! a true test of my gag reflex. At least with shower curtains you can toss the liner in 6 months and be done. you'll know i'm super stressed when you find me on my hands and knees cleaning with q-tips. it's an illness.

last night i drove to bend so i could visit jen before she went in for surgery this morning. her mom called and she is doing fine. phew. i can't wait to hear her voice and find out for myself how she is doing.

this weekend should be pretty hectic with moving Adam, decorating for Christmas and standing in line to see Santa with Brenner. i'm pretty curious to hear what he'll ask for this year.

{11.29.06}

if only...

i wasn't such a control freak i'd hire a wedding planner right about now. we have 16 items overdue and i have absolutely no desire to even look at them. I did hear back from the catering company that I've been begging to hire that they can fit us in - yes, persistence and bribery pays off! the progress of the save-the-date cards are...nada...zip...not happening. so i guess we really only have 15 items overdue. Sweet.

adam signed his last signature on the house last night. the house is all ours and it's about freaking time! we should get the keys tonight and start moving things over. I love our home, especially the kitchen. yes, I said kitchen. i have 6 months to learn how to cook and reintroduce myself to my kitchen accessories and cookbooks. cooking class? I think so.Christmas staff photos are scheduled for today and I look like a bloated cow - no lie! i'm terribly tempted to join the new 24-hour gym that just opened. so when i can't sleep at 3am in the morning i'll have something to do, right? hmm, where's that number...

i guess i should stop procrastinating and start my year-end reports, budget planning and membership billing. here goes nothing...

{11.25.06}

happy, content and blessed

While I was standing in the radio booth freezing my bum off and watching all the happy faces of the people pass me by during the Starlight Holiday Parade I realized how happy, content and blessed I truly am. My family is supportive, my son is pure joy, my friends are loyal and constant and my fiance is simply amazing. There is no other feeling as satisfying as the feeling of contentment. It's like breathing in a spring day.

Yesterday Adam and I did some serious shopping for the new house and for Christmas. We found our dream dining room table, bench and chairs at our favorite store, World Market. And after searching hours for an office desk we ended up back at World Market where we without a doubt found the perfect one. Christmas shopping was fun and very successful; I even managed to wrap four of them last night. Yes, I'm bragging.

Tomorrow is a veg day for this girl, I'm pooped. I need some down time and I fully intend to take it, whether people like it or not.

{11.24.06}

thankful

We have so much to be thankful for and I treasured the evening Adam and I spent with good friends. We ate too much, played Cranium and music trivia with the famous Dave Clemens.

This morning I walked downtown delivering charms to our participating merchants for the Holiday Charm Stroll that starts tomorrow. I was also able to get some great Christmas gift ideas. I love my job. After we close the office early Adam and I are braving the crowds in Bend to get some shopping done. Wish us luck and MERCY, we'll need it.

{11.22.06}

shut the front door...

I'm turning 33 in two months? I know what's happening, while I'm experiencing a panic attack all you people are laughing and/or shaking your heads. Not funny, STOP.

I've been experiencing blog boredom lately. I have nothing exciting to write about other than my daily to-do lists. Boooooooorrrrrrring. I did have a cute conversation with Brenner yesterday morning:

Brenner: "Mama, you look pretty today."

Me: "Why thank you, why is that?"

Brenner: "I like your hair."

{pulled back in a sloppy bun}

Me: "Thank you, what do you like about it?"

Brenner: "I like that it doesn't look like you have a ball on top of your head."

Me: "Oh, ok"

Tomorrow Adam and I will be having Thanksgiving dinner with Eric (my boss). When he found out that Adam and I was planning to order Chinese for dinner he insisted that we come. Jamie (co-worker) is also childless this Thanksgiving so her and Dave will be joining us as well. I'm really looking forward to it.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

{11.20.06}

bachelorette party

You know you're getting old when you need not one but two days to recover from a girls' night out. Besides getting head butted in the nose by a troll (don't ask), Lauren's Bachelorette party in downtown Portland was a huge success and so much fun. Happy viewing.

{11.15.06}

toys, games and a quote

I don't know about rest of you parents out there but while shopping for Brenner's Christmas gift last night I quickly realized that I'm not at all ready for all the new techie toys out there. Um, what exactly are Giga Pets anyway? I ended up finding the VTech Nitro Notebook (laptop) I've been researching online. It's actually pretty sweet and I couldn't stop playing with the demo. I'm in denial that Christmas is next month and I find myself grudgingly forcing myself to get in the spirit. No good.

Tonight is date night with Adam. Yay. He's taking me to the movies and I can't wait to see him. He is staying at the resort where Eric works in Bend for a few days. I miss him, even though we're only 20 miles apart it feels like 100. Then tomorrow is game night with Jen and Eric. We are getting a little bored with the board games we have so if anyone reading has any ideas/recommendations, please - do share!

"Better to do something imperfectly than to do nothing flawlessly." --Robert Schuller

{11.14.06}

moving update

Last night around 9:30pm Adam officially became homeless. We unloaded the last box in the rain and sighed with relief. Phew, moving is no fun! Eric was able to open his sleepy eyes (barely) to help Adam load the heavy stuff into the moving truck yesterday afternoon while I loaded my car up with breakables on my lunch hour. By 8:00pm I hit a wall! I was D-O-N-E. And poor Adam was totally beat and feeling misplaced. Thank goodness our house is scheduled to be professional cleaned, carpets replaced and the hard wood floors buffs/polished by next Wednesday. So, if all goes as planned Adam will be able to move in on Thanksgiving Day. So like last night, we'll spend the evening eating dinner on the floor on a cardboard box in front of the fireplace. Super!

Ok, so I've been working my tail off running/walking on my treadmill four times a week for a month now and I've gained weight. What? If I'm building muscle I sure don't see it, all I see is flab. So I'm going hard core and totally watching/counting my calorie intake. No more sugary coffee drinks - black only, no more cheese (my life support) and no more wine (my other life support) just because. Only for special occasions, i.e. girls' night (which is a rarity these days) dinner dates with Adam (also a rarity) and work events. I have seven months to lose 20 big ones! Time for results, pronto!

Wedding Plans Update:  My bridesmaid dresses arrived yesterday and I love them! I'm super anxious for the girls to try them on, I pray they fit and they like. Next on my list is to compile addresses and create the save-the-date cards. Heather has graciously volunteered to head up a margarita party to get the girls together to help make them.

Current Peeve - My boss insisting we play Christmas music in the office already. Hello!!!!!!!

{11.13.06}

sweet carolina

Our trip to North Carolina was the zippiest vacation I've yet to experience. Flying/driving for 24 hours in 72 hours with horrible turbulence and flight delays was a bit much for this girl. The wedding was absolutely beautiful and we couldn't have asked for better weather. Not to mention there wasn't a dry eye during the ceremony and reception. What an incredible day of meeting new people, making new memories and reminiscing over old ones.

Things I pondered while in flight:

1. What are those Knight Rider lights for on each side of the main Exit sign?


2. What are those little hanger thingamabobers on the bottom of the locking tray?  


3. 
   
   Does it really matter if our seats are in the upright position for landing? If we are going to plunge to our deaths does three inches really make a difference?
   
   


4. If you pay $900 for plane tickets shouldn't you at least get free nuts? What a rip-off.


5. 
   
   There are a lot of balding men in this world.
   

   
   

   
   
   
   

{11.6.06}

oddly

What an "oddly" kind of day. The weather is "oddly" warm, the visitors are "oddly" cranky and my lunch was "oddly" good.

Brenner had his five year wellness checkup and shots today. He told me last night, "Mamma, maybe you should call the place where the doctor is and tell her that I don't feel like going, ok?" His weight is in the 50 percentile and his height, 75. He's basically perfect. He was so brave during the shots he had to get in his little twiggy legs. I cuddled up over him so he couldn't watch but I could see the pain in his eyes with every shot. He soon forgot about them after receiving a new book and some cool bug stickers.

This week is jam packed with lots to do before Friday. Adam's house will need to be packed and ready for the moving truck by next Monday. Yeah, um, and we leave this Friday morning at 4am (did you just hear me cringe?) to drive to Portland to catch an early flight to North Carolina for Steph's wedding. Then back on Sunday afternoon. Phew!

This will most likely be my last blog entry before our trip, so loves and kisses to all.

Tootles Noodles!

{11.5.06}

purge

Purge Purge Purrrrrrrrrge! This is all I've done with every free minute of this weekend. Friday night after we visited my Aunt and Uncle that were in town, we put Brenner to bed and headed downstairs to tackle my garage. We spent hours sorting, tossing and re-organising. When we were done I had a nice heaping pile of stuff in the middle of my garage. 

Yesterday before meeting up with my Aunt and Uncle I went through the rest of my bins and boxes deciding what stays and what goes. I really thought it was going to be harder than it really was to say goodbye to the things that I've had for years, things that I've never needed or thought about. In the afternoon while my Uncle took Brenner to the store to buy him anything he wanted, I rested with my Aunt and caught her up with the wedding plans and the new house. After a great visit and dinner at Adam's we said our goodbyes and watched my Aunt and Uncle drive away. Brenner misses them already!

Today while Adam packed up his own house I spent most the morning loading up my car and making trips to the Opportunity Foundation. Six trips to be exact. Even Brenner got the purging bug and went through all his baskets and toy closet sorting out what he doesn't play with anymore. I was impressed. He had two tidy piles made; one for the garbage and one for the Foundation. During one of the trips I somehow tweaked my back. It hurts and hurts bad. I'm currently sitting on Adam's couch and heating pad waiting for the Advil to kick in. The boys went out for lunch and sure hope they bring home a doggy bag, I'm starving.

{11.2.06}

three

You know how they (who are they anyway?) say bad things happen in threes? Well I concur. First, I had three moles removed and two of the three aren't healing very well and I worry about infection. I won't give up my treadmill workouts so I'm sure they aren't helping the one between my toes. Second, I went to the dentist to get a temporary crown and my dentist found another cavity (actually a hole) next to the one he was working on. Great. So after six shots it took to numb me up thanks to getting my Dad's funky nerve pattern, my face looked and felt like I had a stroke. Third, I had a flat tire this morning. So I called Les Schwab for a time estimate (30 minutes tops) for the repair........four hours later and three phone calls..."Mam, we can't find your car!" (Um their lot isn't that big, heck Redmond isn't that big) I had my fill and asked for the Manager. After holding for another 10 minutes he gets on the phone to inform me that my car is located and is next, NEXT? I said very calmly (even though Charlie is in town), "well then this won't cost me a thing, correct?" He said, "Well Mam, are they Les Schwab tires?" and I said "No, but that really isn't the point here, right? You lost my car for four hours and it's still not done." He said, "Well...um...ok, no charge." 

I'm very excited for tonight. After grocery shopping (yada yada yada, I haven't gone YET) I'm having Kristie over for a late dinner and visit. Even though she is only 18 years old she is very wise. In many ways I admire and respect her very much. Maybe we'll watch a chick flick if time allows.

House update:  Adam will be moving his things out of his house and into my garage on the 13th, ONE day after we get back from North Carolina. Good thing he thinks he's superman with biotic powers. I on the other hand will be popping No doze pills.

{11.1.06}

arrr, matey

Today I scheduled myself to spend the day making calls to past due members. Oh joy, putting on my collection hat...NOT my favorite hat to wear. It's nearly 11am and all I've done is drink three cups of coffee, eat a tomato egg bagel sandwich, changed my color layout, checked my accounts online and talked wedding with Jen. Wow, I'm getting a lot of work accomplished.

Yesterday I met Jamie Fox (I love saying her new name) for lunch at Canyons. We talked so much that we had to get to-go boxes for our lunches. Ha. She works for a local publishing company and always gives me the latest and the most fun town scoops. Last night we bundled up and headed out the door for a night of freezing our bums off while Brenner loaded up his pumpkin pail full of candy that he will most likely consume by Thanksgiving. The sneaky stashing has already begun. Proof you ask? I found two pieces under his bed this morning. Lovely.

{10.29.06}

it's sunday afternoon...

3:40pm to be exact, and even after sleeping until 11am this morning I still can't get with it. I'm still in my sweats and I've just changed all my clocks back an hour. I had a great to-do-list carefully written out for the weekend but here it sits on my desk mocking me. Oh good intentions and high expectations, blah! My lazy susan is being oh so lazy with only a few juicy juice boxes, fig newtons, saltine crackers and a can of sweet peas on her shelves. I've become Adam. Ha. Must go shopping!

Last night was super FUN. After a day of running around gathering things for our costumes and tending to Adam's busted kitchen faucet we headed over to Jen and Jake's to celebrate Cohen birthday. The cake Jen made was amazing and all the food was yummy, of course. We dashed out in time to make party number two at Lauren and Nathan's Halloween bash. As you can see Adam went as a suicide bomber and I, Pippi Longstocking.

{10.25.06}

mismatched

I had the pleasure of starting my day with an appointment to see my Dermatologist. After reading my history chart about my Dad, the doctor turned into a kid in a candy store searching for every funky mole and freckle on my body. After finding three, one between my toes, shoulder and chest he was quick to get out the honkin' needle that he didn't try to hide from me and started between my toes, OUCHIE. He wanted to cut them off to send to the lab for testing. Joy. He also informed me that my ears don't match my body. Yeah, you heard me. Basically he told me that I have ears of a weathered golfer. Peachy.

For those who don't know about my Father, he had melanoma skin cancer a few years back. One morning he woke and shaved his beard that he had since he retired from the State several years ago. I believe God led him to shave it because underneath the beard was a rapidly spreading cancerous mole on the side of his face. I thank God he listened to his body and insisted that it be removed and tested. If he would have waited even three weeks he probably would not be with us today.

I'm excited for the weekend. Adam and I are going to Lauren and Nathan's Halloween party Saturday night. Now, to find costumes. Maybe we will just go as Adam and Mel. Ha.

UPDATE: We just received word that Adam's house SOLD this morning. Yay, so Adam should be moving into our home sometime late November early December. Woo Hoo!!!

{10.23.06}

peeves, perks and goals

If you haven't voted yet, DO IT! I'll admit that I had to research a few local measures to even know what the heck they even were about. I'm so out of touch these days it isn't even funny. It couldn't be planning a wedding, buying a new house, changing old/new jobs, planning trips across country and working full + time that has my mind preoccupied, could it? Ok enough complaining.

Brenner has been begging me for days to buy him his very own wallet, you know, the kind with a chain? My Dad would die if he saw his Grandson carrying around a wallet in his back pants pocket with a chain hanging from his bum, DIE I tell you! I'm hoping it's a phase, really really hoping.

Good news re: Adam's house...since he reduced the price he has a number of people interested and possibly making an offer soon. I refuse to have doubts and continue to think positive about the sell.

Current Peeves:

• Brenner asking me questions I don't know how to answer, like boy private part questions - HELP! 


• Inconsistent friendships.


• The amount of hair I'm currently shedding.


• The game Trouble that Brenner insists on playing 24/7.


• Picture Day.

Current Perks:

• 
  
  Finding my bridesmaid dresses.
  
  


• 
  
  Brenner reading.
  
  


• 
  
  Daily chats with Jamie.
  
  


• 
  
  White chocolate covered espresso beans.
  
  


• 
  
  My new tall and sassy boots.
  
  

Goals this week:

• 
  
  Lose another two pounds.
  
  


• 
  
  Resist Jordan Almonds.
  
  


• 
  
  Call a close friend, not text or email.
  
  


• 
  
  Hug Brenner and Adam more.
  
  


• 
  
  Clean and sort my garage.
  
  

{10.22.06}

weekend update

Yesterday while Adam took Brenner to see Open Season I headed to the peaceful town of Prineville for Auntie Lauren's bridal shower. She made quite the haul with some terrific gifts and I was only one correct answer away from winning a door prize, dang it! And I thought I knew my bridesmaid so well. I was able to get my weekly baby fix holding baby Max, what a cutie-pa-tootie.

Today was super productive. While I went to the Chamber to clean with Brenner Adam sat at home preparing a budget for when we get married. Even though I work with budgets all day at work I have absolutely no desire for them at home. Strange isn't it? I mean I still actually write checks to pay my bills and have one of those old fashion check registers, go figure! After all that fun we were having we drove to Pier 1 to check out the silver chargers I found online for our centerpieces, found, love and ordered. We also managed the strength (yes, with a five-year-old I mean strength) to register for our wedding. I added the link to my favorites if you care to take a gander. Last stop, Costco. I found Brenner's new down comforter and flannel sheets. No more little boy prints, only solid colors for the big boy he has so rapidly become. Ug.

Last night we and by "we" I mean Adam carved pumpkins while I shot a few pictures and caught up on the Hollywood gossip in the latest US. I particularly enjoyed the article on how Britney Spears lost her baby weight...only ONE hour running on the treadmill and 45 minutes lifting weights in the evenings....yeah, super practical. Why didn't I think to do that? Oh yeah, it's called REAL LIFE!

Before...

During...

A dare...

Just pretend...

Brenner's allowance for a double dare....

He won...

Ta-dah!

{10.19.06}

so...

last night after doing all my grocery shopping for the week, eating dinner (crackers & cheese), emptying the dishwasher, folding laundry and flipping through a bridal magazine, I jumped on myspace to browse for some new tunes. Occasionally I search musicians from Portugal. Well last night I came across Sara Serpa's profile, I didn't particularly care for her music but her last name popped out at me and I couldn't help but scream and get a little excited. I may have found a long lost relative from my Great Grandfather Manuel Serpa's side. I wrote to her but I haven't heard back yet. I sent my mother a photo of her this morning and she seems to think we have similar features. So who knows, I'll keep you posted.

This morning was our first school conference with Brenner's teacher. She showed us his journal that he's been drawing and writing in. He read his first book to us which left me in tears. My baby is reading!!!!! Because there is a hearing impaired student in his class they are all learning sign language from an interpreter that comes in during the week. I'm thrilled with his teacher and how much he has learned already.

So I'm looking at my calendar for the next month and I'm in shock that Adam and I leave for North Carolina in three weeks. Adam's good friend is getting married and we're making a mad dash across country for three days, two of which will be spent in the air. Ugh. I wish we could stay longer but we are conserving our vacation time and expenses for our wedding.

{10.17.06}

yesterday's funk

I was definitely not myself. Maybe it was a combination of things; like finding out Brenner's Great Uncle Lynn died the exact time I was awake and thinking about him, or the gloomy weather, or an unpleasant blast from my past episode. Whichever, I'm just glad yesterday has come and gone. 

Today is a much better day. We received word today that our offer on the house we absolutely love was accepted. Yay. Now to sell Adam's house...so if anyone reading is interested in property investing, let us know. Tonight after work Adam and I are driving to Bend to get a yummy bite to eat and shop for a frame for our most awesome 16x20 photo of us that Jen shot and gave us at our engagement party.

Tootles Noodles!

***

WHAT IS SUCCESS?

To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty;
To find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child,
a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived;
This is to have succeeded.

—Ralph Waldo Emerson

{10.16.06}

peeves and perks

Eight months today until I become Mrs. Adam Ridlon. Hurry hurry up! I'm so ready to get this show on the road. After Friday night I'm itching to get all the fun projects started. And after Brenner telling me last night, "Mom, don't be upset ok? But you kind of have a big butt!" I'm getting serious about my exercise routine. You gotta love brutal honesty to put things into perspective. Yikes.

Yesterday I drove out to the High Desert Museum for Hadi's baby shower. Her tummy is as round and cute as can be. Nothing like getting the worse case of baby fever EVER! I was caught several times smelling the diapers through the packaging. I miss that smell. It was so good to see her smile and can't wait to catch-up over lunch soon.

Current Peeves:

• My dying camera.


• Motives.


• Oscar's filthy fish bowl.


• 
  
  My obsession with Jordan Almonds, I can't stop eating them - HELP!
  
  


• 
  
  Selfishness.
  
  

Current Perks:

• All our fun engagement gifts.


• 
  
  Good Earth tea.
  
  


• 
  
  Exotic Coconut Bath & Body body cream.
  
  


• 
  
  Brenner saying, "Hey Mom, could you do me a favorite?"
  
  


• 
  
  Knowing who my dearest friends are and why!
  
  

{10.14.06}

blissfully blessed

What a fantastic weekend! Last night literally left me in tears with all the endless efforts Jen and Jake put into our engagement party. The food was incredible and all the personal touches Jen made were simply amazing. She amazes me. To top the evening off Adam's Dad from New Hampshire flew in to surprise us at the door. Even though I left my camera at home, which is rare, the memories made will forever be burned into my memory forever. Thank you all for coming, I love you all!!!!!

We spent this afternoon at the Central Oregon Pumpkin Patch....tons of fun...tons of dust...and tons of laughs...

{10.13.06}

engagement party

The smell and crispness of Fall is truly in the air. The nights and mornings are freezing and the days are comfortably warm. Layering is a must. I love all the colors of Fall. I'm looking out my office window at the beautiful nearly naked trees with only a few leaves hanging from their branches. Love. Love. Love.

Today is a busy day. My parents are coming to town for our engagement dinner party that Jen and Jake will be hosting for us tonight. I'm so excited to have all my loved ones together to celebrate, laugh and make new memories.

"When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place." C.S. Lewis

{10.11.06}

boys, lunch and shopping

I'm pretty sure I wasn't exactly cut out to be the perfect Mother to a boy. I've never understood the joy in crawling around on the floor and in the dirt making cars go back and forth. Nor was I cut out to deal with my five-year-old son telling me tonight that he has two girlfriends at school already. Let me repeat...TWO GIRLFRIENDS!  Oh Lord, grant me mercy...sweet loving mercy. For example; tonight I took two five-year-old extremely energetic boys to Papa's Pizza, fed them pizza, soda (caffeine free), cleaned up a #2 accident Brenner's friend had in the men's restroom (you wouldn't believe the looks I got) and listened to belching contests for two hours, car ride to and back not included. I realized more than ever how much Brenner wants and needs a sibling. Adam and I are praying for a sister, or sisser according to Brenner. And we even have her named.

Today was a fun day with a super yum lunch with my second favorite Jen at the Mustard Seed and a short shopping trip to the Blue Moon. I adore the owner and all the colorful funky items she carries in the store. Jen scored some great items on the clearance rack and I found a few items to ponder over. I rarely buy anything on a whim, I'm an over-thinker...it's an illness.

"The art of living does not consist in preserving and clinging to a particular mode of happiness, but in allowing happiness to change its form without being disappointed by the change; happiness, like a child, must be allowed to grow up." --Charles L. Morgan

{10.6.06}

oh friday...

how I love thee. This week has gone by so quickly and I've accomplished so much at work. I'm nearly caught up (knock on wood) and I feel like I'm back in the groove of things. The Chamber's annual dinner fundraiser was very successful and with a few outstanding items I have the event balanced and reports printed. Phew, feels good.

Tomorrow is our engagement photo session with the very talented and awesome photographer, Jen Thompson. After the microdermabrasion treatment I had last week that caused a few tiny break-outs, I'm on my knees praying to the good Lord that my face stays clear. I'm so vain, geeaaaz.

I'm off to pick up my Brenner who I've missed more than anything in this world.

{10.4.06}

hmm...

I'm trying to think back on the past week and I can't for the life of me figure out where it went or what I did. I feel like someone kidnapped my brain and returned it EMPTY. How rude. I remember vaguely going back home (John Day) with Jen and Adam to get some wedding planning done with my Mom and from the looks of my binder full of ideas we did a fantastic job. So instead of 20 past dues on the knot.com we only have 11. Sweet.

Last night Adam and I had dinner with Julie and Phil at the Pine Tavern. We have such a great time together and they gave us some great tips for our Honeymoon trip to Kauai. They took some great pictures of Brenner and I at Jamie & Rob's wedding a few weeks ago and I couldn't purchase the prints fast enough.

Tonight I'm meeting my maid of honor and bridesmaids for drinks and dinner to discuss the wedding notes Jen made last weekend. She'll be so proud of me when she finds that I haven't made any changes.

Be The Change:
Light up someone's life today, in ways big or small.

{9.29.06}

hanes his way

When I asked Brenner what he wanted to be for Halloween this year, he responded "I want to be UNDERWEAR BOY!"

{9.26.06}

sleeeeeep

All I can think about at this very moment is SLEEP, I need it, I want it. This week won't stop beating me down, I'm tired, no lie AND it's only Tuesday. Yesterday was my first day back at the Chamber. It feels good. It feels like home. I like that feeling - knowing exactly right where I'm supposed to be. I have my job back, my goldfish, Oscar, my morning mochas from Local Grounds and all my members supporting and welcoming me back. Sure the pay may not be the greatest but waking in the mornings and looking forward to another work day - PRICELESS! I foresee some over-time to get the books in order and the necessary collections made before the next membership mailing that will go out in two months - my left arm goes numb just thinking about it. On top of adjusting to my new/old job Adam put his house on the market this morning. The house we (more me) fell in love with was taken by another offer the day before we decided to make ours. We still made a "back-up offer" in case the first falls through. So the search continues...

Brenner continues to do well in school, however; he brutally informed me tonight that he doesn't like when I ask about his day(s) at school. Can you guess what I told him? "TOUGH, I will continue to ask until the day I die, so get over it!" He said, "Uh, ok Mamma." Poor kid is going to need therapy before he reaches middle school.

Be The Change:
Challenge an assumption you hold, and serve whatever truth you find in the process.

{9.24.06}

things

Things that annoy me:

•   Embellishers.


•   Brenner old enough to bring home HOMEWORK.


•   Mulch slivers.


•   Curling iron burns.


• 
  
    Whining.
  
  


•   Commercials during DHW.


• 
  
    Construction stops in town. Focus people.
  
  

Things that perk me up:

•   Finding my dream home, small and cozy.


•   DHW, love and missed dearly.


•   Iced mochas...and more iced mochas.


•   Comfy AND cute shoes. Score.


•   Alouette & Wheat Thins...holy yum.


•   Lunch with crrrrrazy Jamie Fox this week.


• 
  
    Finishing Adam's back yard.
  
  

Be The Change:
Practice letting go of what you think you "know" sometimes, in order to let true wisdom arise.

{9.22.06}

last day

Today is my last day at the bank, hooray!!! I will miss the peeps but not the job. This morning the staff surprised me with a yummy raspberry cheesecake and a bag full of Bath & Body lotions. I couldn't finish reading the card without my eyes filling with tears.

Tomorrow Adam and I have an appointment with a realtor to tour a few homes in Redmond. We have decided to put Adam's house on the market as soon as we get a few things completed - mainly his back yard. So while he finishes the stairs and landscaping I'll be super cleaning his house. I'm going to bribe Brenner with moo-lah to help me. He's a pro with a swiffer mop I tell ya. So hopefully his house will sell quickly and we can find our home before the wedding. That way we can get his things moved then slowly move my things in as the time gets closer to June. And in case you are wondering, we don't plan to live together before we are married.

I'm off to lunch with Chad...his treat, of course. ;-)

Goodbyes suck.

{9.19.06}

the results are in

This morning I had the pleasure of starting this one fine day by going to the dentist. For those who don’t know I HATE GOING. As a child I had most all my baby teeth pulled prematurely to make room for my permanent teeth that had no desire to wait their turn. On top of that I had two oral surgeries to extract teeth that God misplaced and two sets of braces to correct them. Imagine this if you may…a 12 year old girl, body changing, in braces with a headgear and wearing glasses. Yep, I was a smoking hottie.

The outcome of this mornings visit:

• I need to floss better, dah.


• I need to brush better, dah again.


• I need a crown, cha-ching.


• My bonding is turning yellow from coffee and I should stop drinking it. Riiiiiiiiiiight…take away the air I breathe first, please and thank you.


• Jenny, the receptionist is on crack. I love her.

{9.16.06}

reasons

Why is it that planning a wedding is so stressful? Shouldn't marrying the person you love be a blissful celebration? I would hope so, but apparently it is NOT. I'm seriously at the point of calling our wedding off. Not because I don't want to marry Adam but because of the stress and guilt over the cost. I'm too tired to deal with petty details that won't matter a year down the road. Oh well, I guess Vegas is our only "budget" option at this point. Fun and SO romantic.

Today I shopped with Jen until we dropped, literally. What a great day. Tomorrow I'm helping Heidi paint her kitchen...I can't wait to see what color she picked. Fun.

Reasons I miss Brenner:

•  The way he combs my hair in the mornings.


•  His fabulous hugs.


• 
  
   His UNCONDITIONAL love and acceptance.
  
  


•  His excitement for chocolate milk.


•  The look he gives me when he wants gum.


•  I just do.

{9.13.06}

first day of kindergarten

{9.12.06}

a couture dress

Just before I picked up the phone to call Bella Brides to order my dress yesterday I received an email from Adam, the subject read: Wedding Dress! READ ME!!! Apparently his co-worker has a couture dress from the MCSignature Bridal Collection that she purchased, never wore and she wants me to have if I love it. I just received photos of it this morning and I CAN'T WAIT to try it on tonight. It's currently in Adam's trunk in a canvas bag so there is no way he can see it unless he peeks, which if he values his life he won't.

Tomorrow is Brenner's first day of school. I'm a wreck. I just hope I can keep it together and hold back the tears until after the classroom door closes and I'm in the car.

It's slow at work today, scary slow. I think we've had one or two customers and it's already 11am. I'm looking for things to do and already cleaned out my desk. I did get an email from Heather informing me of a typo in my email signature...apparently I've had the Chamber's phone number listed for quite some time now. Ha, I guess it's meant to be.

Also, I want a pair of these...

{9.11.06}

remembering

I'll never forget the morning of September 11th. Brenner was not quite 5 months old and I had just walked in the door at work. Everyone was gathered around the TV in silence. I literally dropped everything I had in my hands to cover my mouth. I couldn't believe what I was watching. I remember to this day exactly what outfit I dressed Brenner in, his beautiful big blue eyes gazing up at me while I nursed him, and the goodbye kiss I gave him on his sweet little forehead before handing him to my Aunt. From that day forward I look at things a little differently, not in life altering ways, but in the little every day ways.

This weekend was super productive and fun. Saturday, I picked up Lauren in Adam's fancy ride to go WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING. First we hit Macy's in hopes to find some great bridesmaid dresses, we found only one that we liked but I'm not keen on the color. After a quick stop at the MAC counter we were off to Bella Brides for my 2pm appointment with Alicia. While she was helping another customer Lauren and I hit the racks pulling off any dress that tickled my fancy. All fifteen of them. I wasn't nervous until I walked into the dressing room and was surrounded by all the beautiful gowns. I thought to myself, "How in the world am I going decide on just one?" After trying on the fourth dress Alicia handed me one that was not in my dressing room. Before she could finish lacing the corset I knew it was THE ONE. We finished our shopping day with drinks at Anthony's to celebrate.

We promised Brenner that if he had a green day on Saturday we'd take him to Sun Mountain Fun Center on Sunday to bowl and play games. As you can see from below, he earned his green day. We had so much fun bowling, riding go-karts (I came in last) and playing video games. Man, can that kid go through the tokens. Whoa. After I cleaned the Chamber in record time we met Jen, Jake and the boys at Papa's for dinner. It was fun to catch-up and see the boys. I adore how Cohen says my name; REESA. Good times.

Words of Wisdom: Honesty is telling the truth to ourselves and others. Integrity is living that truth. --Ken Blanchard

{9.10.06}

a day at sun mountain fun center

{9.8.06}

going back home...

to the Redmond Chamber of Commerce, that is. I gave my resignation to the banking world today. September 22nd will be my last day and I can't wait. Sometimes you need to remove yourself from a situation to appreciate and be appreciated. I will miss all the wonderful people I've met and worked with but my heart belongs in the community. I was offered more money to stay but it didn't matter, I'd rather be poor, content and happy than to be doing something that my heart wasn't into. After all, what is the point?

Last night I went over to Heidi's new house to help paint her bedroom. She is incredible with colors and I can't wait to take her shopping with me to pick out the new colors for Adam's living room (soon to be ours). The mustard-baby-poop color MUST go. Bad, so bad. And it's all my fault, all. I wish I had my Mother's talent and creativity; just a little would have been groovy. I must be color blind. No lie. I wear colors together that Adam questions often. Really, there is no rhyme or reason to my selection. I see it, I like it and I buy it.  And my Mother wonders why I wear so much black and white. And maybe that would also explain why I have a ridiculous number of decorative pillows I get home from the store and dislike only days after buying jammed in the storage closet in my garage. P-A-T-H-E-T-I-C.

Happy Friday to all. Have a spectacular weekend!!!

{9.7.06}

devotional reading

"The water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water." John 4:14

The picture our Lord gives is not that of a channel but a fountain. "Be being filled," and the sweetness of vital relationship to Jesus will flow out of the saint as lavishly as it is imparted to him. If you find your life is not flowing out as it should, you are to blame; something has obstructed the flow. Keep right at the Source, and - you will be blessed personally? No, out of you will flow rivers of living water, irrepressible life.

We are to be centers through which Jesus can flow as rivers of living water in blessing to everyone. Some of us are like the Dead Sea, always taking in but never giving out, because we are not rightly related to the Lord Jesus. As surely as we receive from Him, He will pour out through us, and in the measure He is not pouring out, there is a defect in our relationship to Him. Is there anything between you and Jesus Christ? Is there anything that hinders your belief in Him? If not, Jesus says, out of you will flow rivers of living water. It is not a blessing passed on, not an experience stated, but a river continually flowing. Keep at the Source, guard well your belief in Jesus Christ and your relationship to Him, and there will be a steady flow for other lives, no dryness and no deadness.

Is it not too extravagant to say that out of an individual believer rivers are going to flow? "I do not see the rivers," you say. Never look at yourself from the standpoint of - Who am I? In the history of God's work you will nearly always find that is has started from the obscure, the unknown, the ignored, but the steadfastly true to Jesus Christ.

{9.5.06}

lies at the alter

Adam and I have been reading "Lies at the Alter: The Truth About Great Marriages" that was loaned to us recently. While driving to the coast we took the quizzes in the back of each chapter to learn more about each other. We laughed, we pondered, we agreed and we agreed to disagree. I would recommend this book to any couple. This particular section sparked my interest and thought I'd share...

Closing The Exits:

• Do you or your partner zone out in front of the TV every evening?


• Do you or your partner spend long hours in computer chat rooms when you are home together?


• Do you or your partner regularly get your emotional needs filled outside of the marriage?


• Do you or your partner spend long hours on the phone when you are home together?


• Is your idea of relaxation drinking alcohol that leaves you dozing in your chair by eight p.m. or zoned out emotionally?


• Do you avoid talking about your day with your partner?


• Are you like ships passing in the night, not stopping to hug or touch each other?


• Do you or your partner walk away when you're uncomfortable with a conversation you're having?


• 
  
  Is giving or getting the silent treatment a regular part of your marriage?
  
  

{9.1.06}

dude shoes

The shoes Brenner HAD to have for school

{8.31.06}

myspace and family

Monday night I helped my brother set-up his profile on myspace. Oh my goodness, we laughed for hours and it was like we were kids again staying up past our bedtimes giggling over the silliest of things. I miss those days. He has been through so much this past year and it tickles my soul to see my friends reach out to him. He tells me daily how rich I am to have such great friends in my life. He's right. I love all my friends dearly.

Brenner received a nice bump near his eye from playing ball at daycare yesterday. After Adam told him that he was getting a black eye, Brenner kept disappearing to the bathroom. He thought his eyeball was going to turn black and was checking the progress in the mirror. I guess we'll need to explain things a little better in the future.

Minus a few road bumps, the wedding plans are coming right along. I have dozens of Martha Stewart magazines and books that Heidi let me borrow and I'm getting so many great ideas from them. Right now my ideas are all over the place, kind of like a puzzle...the pieces are there...just not put together. We have time...must relax.

I'm really looking forward to a three-day weekend with Adam. We need some "us" time. With all the wedding planning and getting Brenner ready for school next week we could really use it.

**If anyone knows of any good caterers in the local area that does not charge an arm, leg or my first born child, please let me know.

Words of Wisdom:  Live life without fear, confront all obstacles and know that you can overcome them.

{8.28.06}

weekend update

If today is Monday...where the heck did Saturday and Sunday go? I think I had a weekend but I don't feel recharged from having one. For sure!  

Friday morning I helped with the Redmond Chamber's Annual Golf Tournament by driving a golf cart and supplying booze to all the players. Getting paid to drive a cart around all morning, sweet!!! Unfortunately because of staffing issues I had to go back to work, not so sweet!!! After Brenner and I said our goodbyes to Adam and kicking him out the door for leaving us for a Red Sox game in Seattle (haha, they lost) we sat down for a Mother/Son heart-to-heart chat. He's been having troubles listening and doing things the first time asked at daycare and at home. Russ and I talk weekly and agree on the same parenting techniques but I think consistency is the key. I admit there are nights when I'm tired and I will let Brenner get away with more than I would if I wasn't. Brenner is a smart cookie and knows Mommy's limits and challenges them daily. However when Adam is around its like boot camp. He is awesome with Brenner and keeps him in line without raising his voice, something I'm slowly learning to do.

Saturday Brenner let me sleep until 10:30am. After getting up with him at 7:30am to get his Ovaltine, breakfast and movie started I quickly fell back to sleep and woke to Brenner standing over me saying "Mama, are you going to sleep ALL day?" I couldn't believe he let me sleep that long without needing or wanting something. We were scrambling to get out the door on time for Jamie's wedding in Bend at 2pm. The day was perfect and I had the best time getting to know her family, while Brenner had his fun cutting a rug with the flower girl. I was able to FINALLY meet Julie and Phil, local wedding photographers I've been chatting with via myspace. I hope to meet with them this week to discuss our wedding plans.

Yesterday while Russ took Brenner wake boarding I cleaned the Chamber and ran some errands that I've been putting off for weeks. After Adam got home I fixed a home-cooked meal...Hamburger Helper, salad and bread. Hey, that's home cookin' for me so stop your hackling.

I just got back from getting my bangs pixie chopped. Shorter than I wanted but I think I like them. With my track record I'll probably despise them by tomorrow.

{8.25.06}

clues

Do you ever have days when you know, without a doubt, that indeed aliens came down to earth, abducted your obedient and loving child and exchanged him/her for another not so obedient and loving child? Today was OUR day...

Clue #1: He didn't run to hug me after being at his Dad's house for a week.

Clue #2: He received a yellow day (on a scale from 1 to 10 that's a 2) at daycare.

Clue #3: He didn't take a nap.

Clue #4: He earned three time-outs before dinner for not listening.

Clue #5: At the grocery store he thought it be funny to expose my bum to the entire population of Redmond by lifting my skirt.

Clue #6: When asked to get dressed and brush his teeth, he decided it would be more fun to lather him AND the bathroom sink, mirror and toilet with my new body lotion. 

Need I continue with another? I think not. I'm putting in a request right now to get my son back and pouring myself a nice TALL glass of wine now. Ni-Nite.

{8.23.06}

how to annoy me

• 
  
  Tell me you practice what you preach, then don't.
  
  


• Block my drive-way with your company truck to use the port a-potty across the street. Poop on your own time. 


• 
  
  Tell me to have a nice day without making eye contact. 
  
  


• Fake hug me.


• 
  
  Call me Michelle...because that sounds so much like Melissa.
  
  


• Give my child a toy that makes noise. May you contract a flesh eating disease and have your innards be devoured by locusts. LOUD locusts.


• Suggest I drink tea to cure my insomnia. Drugs only, thanks.  


• Don't invite me to the Red Sox game. You suck. ;-)


• Use the phrase “Log on to our website.”


• 
  
  Try to convince me that the reason I’m so constipated is because I just need to relax. MAY YOU NEVER POOP AGAIN!!!
  
  

{8.22.06}

signs

Letterman's Top Ten Signs You're Doing Business With The Wrong Bank.

10. When you make a deposit, tellers high-five each other.
9. After you get a free toaster, bank president shows up at your house begging for toast.
8. Your monthly statements are handwritten, in crayon.
7. When you want to make a withdrawal, clerks suddenly don't speak English.
6. You notice Kato Kaelin is sleeping in the vault.
5. Your safety deposit box is a Dunkin' Donuts carton wrapped in tin foil.
4. All cash deposits go directly into teller's pants.
3. Lobby is waist-deep in Mexican pesos.
2. Toll-free customer service line is: 1-800-GET-HOSED.
1. Four words: Bank President Rosa Lopez.

{8.21.06}

wide awake

It's almost 2:30am and I'm totally wide awake. I need drugs and drugs fast, please and thank you.

This weekend was busy and fun. Saturday morning I met Heidi at Shari's for breakfast to go over our game plan for the wedding. She is amazing and gave me so many good ideas. After breakfast we drove to her new house that she'll be moving into shortly. It's awesome and I can't wait to see all the amazing things she will do to spiffy it up. I offered to help paint, something I love to do. In the evening we had Adam's company summer party. The theme; "Orphaned Configuration Killers Summer Tour 2006." Don't ask, I haven't the slightest.

Today was an awesome fun, shopping "let's spend money day", eat out day. After my mundane grocery shopping, running my car through the car wash and doing loads of laundry Adam and I headed into Bend to get some shopping done. Required, no...fun, yes. Needless to say I totally blew my 50/50 dough I won at the MAC counter. I love all the new limited edition colors...yum. Let's just hope Brenner doesn't flush them down the toilet this time. At dinner we made our engagement party list for Jen. After making the list I realized how funny friendships can really be. There are all different types of friendships; steadfast, casual and familiar friendships. I know I'll offend some for not inviting, but really, what is the point? I don't know.

Off to bed...again...wide awake.

{8.17.06}

lean cuisines and bed checks

Last night I made my son a Lean Cuisine for dinner. I know I know, don't lecture me...I'm a horrible Mother. There was nothing in the house to fix and going to the grocery store was out of the question, so I opened my freezer and sent by God was one Lean Cuisine left - cheese and pasta (a.k.a. mac & cheese). Brenner jumped up and down with excitement - SCORE. A part of me feels guilty for giving my child a low calorie meal, but on the other hand at least it wasn't a McDonald's Happy Meal, right?

Today I received confirmation from the school that Brenner is all set to start Kindergarten next month, which is like two blinks away. I'm already a basket case. Wasn't it just yesterday he was learning to ride his bike and pronouncing his last name correctly? How can he be starting school already? He is so excited and we started the count-down on his calendar in his room.

Last night's routine bed check and kisses to my baby's forehead.

{8.16.06}

what i'd like to do to my toilet

{8.15.06}

floating cherries

When I came out of the bathroom this morning I found Brenner in the kitchen packing his own lunch. I guess the "lunch" competition with the other kids at school has begun. He packed my low-fat yogurt, low-fat string cheese, 100 calorie wheat thins, and a baggie full of cherries floating in water. When I asked him why the water, his reply, because cherries can swim, right? I have no clue where that came from, all I know is that he has the most vivid imagination and everyday is like receiving a gift listening to him talk. Also, I'm wondering if Charla (his teacher) thinks I have Brenner on a diet, it's not like he can spare to lose any weight, the poor guy only weighs 40 lbs!!!

Last night I experienced the most amazing thing. After my run in the Canyon I came across a crowd of people in the park petting and taking pictures of a doe...maybe a fawn, she couldn't have been older than a year. Anyway she was super tame and let everyone pet her without flinching. I suspect that she was raised by someone and either got out or was let go. We all stood in silence and enjoyed the moment. I just hope some idiot doesn't decide to use her for target practice.

I want to know on an average how much sleep a bride-to-be typically loses over choosing the colors for her wedding? I tossed and turned in frustration because I can't decide. Just when I think I have them picked, I find other possibilities. I know I have 10 months, but I can't move forward on anything else until I know what I want. Ugh. Maybe it will come to me in my dreams tonight, wouldn't that be peachy!

I'm so excited for October. We get our engagement pictures taken by our famous Jen Thompson. Also Jen and Jake offered to host an engagement party for me and Adam. We are so blessed to have such good friends in our lives. I can't wait!!!!!!!!

{8.13.06}

shepherds pie

I found this website that appeared to have some pretty easy recipes, ha, maybe for Martha Stewart. After about 10 pots and pans and several (actually all) of Adam's cooking utensils I finished baking two Shepherd Pies. One for us and one for some friends that just had a baby. I wasn't thrilled about the three hour process and the dishes that followed. The boys gave it two thumbs up, but I'm guessing they knew that if they didn't that heads would roll - they were probably right.

Friday night was good fun playing charades/pictionary with Eric and Jen. Here is the best sketch of SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick that I've seen yet. The artist is none other than Eric James Ridlon, age 30...

Saturday morning Adam made the best blueberry cream cheese crepes ever! Yum. In the afternoon we dilly-dallied around town shopping for baby gifts and Cooper's birthday present for his party that was in the evening. Jen and Jake hosted a terrific party, as usual, and we got to see and catch up with friends that we haven't seen in forever.

Today after my joyful morning of cleaning the Chamber and grocery shopping I spent a lot of time surfing the net for color ideas for the wedding. Jen T. helped me via Instant Messaging with a few ideas. She has incredible taste and I hope to tap into her creative mind for more down the road. I'm also working on putting together our wedding web page but waiting on a few more details before posting the address. Stay tuned...

{Brenner's new favorite drink: Superfood Micronutrient fruit juice drink. a.k.a. super colon blow}

{8.11.06}

mistaken identity

So the funniest thing happened to me last night on the way home from Jamie's bridal shower. I was at the gas station and on the phone with Adam, my fiance (I love saying that) when my passenger door opened and this chick totally gets in my car!!!! She looked over at me and instantly screamed and jumped out of my car and ran to the car she thought was mine. Adam on the other line was wondering why the heck I couldn't stop laughing hysterically. The lesson to be learned...always lock my car doors...I know Mother, I know.

Adam and I started running together about a week ago and I absolutely love running with him. He motivates me, even though he's been given strict instructions not to. It's a long story, but basically the more people push me to do something I do the complete opposite. For example; if you tell me not to walk over to the yummy plate of cookies that are for Customer Appreciation Day and eat one, I totally will...bet on it. I'm a stubborn stubborn girl. I think gymnastics was the perfect sport for me; it forced me to push myself to new limits and set individual goals. I miss that part of my life, constantly challenging myself daily. I do this now, just in a more slow and "ehhh, I'll get to it soon" kind of way. Ha. It's funny how people's personalities remain the same but their temperaments alter over time.

Today is a good day and you want to know why? Cause it's Friday and I get my sweet Brenner...pause...doing my happy dance. Yay. Tonight Jen and Eric are coming over after work for a night of eating really fattening pizza and playing board games. I can't wait to see my Jen...it's been like a whole five days...some serious withdrawal going on here.

{8.10.06}

things i won't miss being single

• Having two garage door openers on my visor.


• Grocery shopping for two households.


• Living out of a bag when I go over to Adam's house.


• Schedules...schedules...schedules.


• Making my bed into my couch.


• Cleaning two households.


• Pulling weeds in two yards.


• Sharing a tiny closet with Brenner.


• Living out of boxes in my garage.  


• 
  
  Being single.
  
  

{8.9.06}

bridezilla

If you receive a wedding invitation that includes a deposit slip to my bank account or if you're my bridesmaid and I ask you to go on a diet for the big day....RUN...RUN FAST and then later kick my butt. Actually I've become more of the organized version of a Bridezilla, which would explain how much actual "work" I've actually accomplished lately. When I get my mind set to do something, watch out! I can be pretty stubborn and I don't like to be told no. Ha. The planning is going well. Tonight Adam and I have our first wedding appointment to look at the Historic Church of Redmond. I'm very excited. The reception site is still a work in progress. We're waiting to hear back from a few places for the details and availability. I'm also getting an idea for what I want my gown to look like and the color scheme for the bridesmaid dresses. Last night Heidi came over to help me look online for dresses...dresses...and more dresses. And tonight after our appointment I'm heading over to Lauren's to look at more magazines and get more ideas. She, my bridesmaid, is also planning for her big day which is on New Year's of this year. Tonight should be fun times...magazines...giggles...wine and good friends. Yay.  

So to sum up this entry...I pretty much eat, sleep, shower and work thinking and planning for the day I become Mrs. Adam Ridlon. Can you tell I'm SO excited? Just a little...

{8.7.06}

my fancy

things that tickle my fancy:

a.) california red plums. b.) having brenner's school shopping nearly done. c.) organizing brenner's side of the closet with his new digs. d.) my engagement ring...I can't stop staring at it. e.) sunday morning breakfast with my girls. f.) evening walks with my fiance. g.) wet kisses from cohen. h.) sleeping until 9am on weekends. i.) instant oatmeal. j.) spending oodles of time in the bridal magazine section.

things that annoy my fancy:

a.) people who won't answer their phones at work. b.) brenner starting school in less than a month. c.) my lawn boy (actually he's like 80 years old), they are called weeds so PULL THEM already! d.) director client reports e.) the cost of our county fair, what a rip-off. f.) the piles of work on my desk with little interest to finish. g.) being passed by a four year old while hiking. h.) my treadmill collecting dust. i.) photoshop not working on my computer. j.) back fat.

{8.6.06}

misery ridge

I just logged into my knot and we have 22 past dues. Ok, we've only been engaged 10 days and I'd like to know how it is possible to be past due on 22 items already for planning our wedding? Ugh. This site is either going to be a blessing or a curse. Whichever, I'm dead set to remain on task. It's my nature and calling to be organized. I bought my first wedding magazine today. Wow, so much to do, plan, and agree on. Adam wants to be very involved with the planning and I think it's sweet. I can see this is going to be like building a house or wall papering together. Either we'll grow stronger or kill each other.

Saturday morning Adam thought it would be a great idea to go on a "nature walk/hike", I agreed and after packing a lunch we were off to Smith Rock. Now keep in mind that I thought we were going on a nice relaxing nature walk. Ha, so I thought. We started up this hill called Misery Ridge and I should have known by the name that I was in deep deep trouble. After about an hour of walking straight up hill and actually hearing my heart beat, feeling dizzy and wanting to toss my biscuits from breakfast we reached our destination. The view of Monkey Face was incredible and for one brief (very brief) moment I felt that my near death experience was well worth it. Another hour of walking the river trail and running out of water I was thankful to reach my car. Needless to say, I could barely get out of bed this morning without moaning and groaning. I'm getting old.

Today I met the girls for breakfast in Bend. What fun and we plan to make this a weekly tradition. Good times. After I did my weekly grocery shopping and laundry I headed over to Adam's where we received a dinner invitation by Jen and Jake. There is something about having other people cook for you that tastes so yummy and better than your own cooking....wait, I don't cook. No matter, it was good and always a treat. Oh Monday, why must you be so near...?

{8.2.06}

roto-rooter

There are some people in life who you hope you'll never have to call and Roto-Rooter is one of them. I'm quite positive. My toilet was completely clogged this morning. I tried the plunger, nothing. So I made the call. Two hours later and Brenner and I doing the potty dance the guy shows up at my door wearing boots with questionable "stuff" on them. So 45 minutes later and a whole lot of noise coming from the closed bathroom he emerged with the culprit; my face bronzing powder compact holder. I looked over at Brenner and he said. "Mom, I have to tell you the truth." So $85 dollars later and one filthy but functioning bathroom we said our goodbyes to the nice man with pooh-pooh covered boots. Ew.

June 16, 2007. Our wedding date. We thought about having a September or October wedding, but decided on June instead. No real reason, other than I can't wait that long. Ha. So mark your calendars.

{8.1.06}

things i'm not

1. Jaded v. intr. To become weary or spiritless.

2. Bitter adj. Marked by resentment or cynicism.

I'm not perfect. When I get hurt, I hurt. But I refuse to let what happens or what I've done beat me down. I face it head on and deal with it. Sometimes this can get me into trouble, especially when I pick the wrong timing to tackle an issue. Patience, I have not. Compassion, I have. I'm always learning and treasure the lessons I've learned in life. My gymnastics coach once told me, "The only thing you get by looking back is a stiff neck." This may not have depth or sound poetic but it's always stuck in my thick stubborn noggin through life.

Today I would have been married 14 years. No regrets, merly a sentiment memory. I was on my new favorite website yesterday www.theknot.com and I realized that I get to plan my wedding. You see, my Mother, bless her heart planned my entire wedding back in 1992. Do you blame her? I was 18. Who at 18 knows what she wants entirely? I have to admit I was a little overwhelmed and had to close down to regroup...just a tiny bit. I'm so excited to start my lists and gather ideas on little scraps of paper. Jen and I plan to head over to John Day next month to stay with my Mama for a girls' weekend to plan plan plan away. Martha Stewart watch out, these two ladies are simply amazing. I can't wait to hit the local scene with Jen, show her what country life is really all about.  

**This afternoon I had lunch with Jamie from Cascade Publications. We were on the Sunfest Kid's Alley committee together and missed seeing each other on a weekly basis. She is getting married in 26 days and gave me some great advice. She is so easy to be around, calming and such a great listener. I'm looking forward to getting to know her more on a personal level.

{7.31.06}

two things

I'm quite over: 1.) Allergies and 2.) My peevish attitude towards exercising.   

Adam has been working with a personal trainer at the gym during the week and last night he worked with me, showing all the different types of exercises I can do with my weights and yoga ball. He typed out a great exercise routine for me and saved it to my desktop. I plan to spend 30 minutes every other day working out on my lunch hours. I'm determined to lose this 10 pounds that's been lingering around my mid-section, which I'm sure has absolutely nothing to do with summertime drinks.

The weekend was good and busy. Phew, I swear I come back to work to rest. Friday night we went out to John and Amy's for John's going away bbq for the paper. We had to leave somewhat early because my allergies to their cats kicked in. Two Benadryls later I was down for the count.

Saturday, we decided very last minute to host a bbq and invite a few friends over to celebrate our engagement. I scrambled to clean Adam's house and plan the menu. It wasn't fancy by all means, but we had a great time. Lauren and Nathan gifted us with a yummy bottle of red wine and a very sweet card. Good times.

Yesterday I had good intentions. Good intentions to go to church, attend a baby shower, exercise and research wedding planners, but did I? Nooooooo. I was so tired and ended up taking a nap with Brenner. I did get my grocery shopping done for the week and cleaned the Chamber. After our two hour power nap, we took Brenner to the park to fly his dinosaur kite that he's been dying to fly. Before dinner I washed/vacuumed my car and pulled weeds in Adam's flower beds, which this morning I'm paying dearly for. Gotta love allergy season. I'm SO over it.

{7.28.06}

engaged

After one year, four months and 16 days dating Adam, he proposed marriage. The place: Cork. The date: July 27th. The time: No clue. How: He gave the waitress the ring to bring out with our dessert. The dessert: Peanut Butter Cheesecake with a pretty orange flower on top. Did he get on one knee?: YES. Did I cry?: Dah, of course. Am I the luckiest girl alive?: Most definitely. Do we have a date set?: No, so stop asking.

My cheeks hurt from this perma smile I'm wearing today. I love this feeling and hope it never goes away. Even though we have been talking marriage for months, I refused to buy a single bridal magazine or visit the wedding site that I've been told is fabulous. While driving to work this morning all of my ideas came rushing in all at once. Now I'm engaged, now I can plan, now I can do all the things I wouldn't allow myself to do until Adam said those four beautiful words to me: Will you marry me? I'm in heaven.

{7.26.06}

jen

I'm a firm believer there are only a few core friendships people find, keep and cherish in a lifetime. My friendship with Jennifer Weis is one I will treasure forever. I'll never forget the day I met her, I was in awe with her honesty and permanent smile she wore beautifully. Over the years she has the ability to ground me in ways no other can. She tells me like it is and gives the best hugs ever, when I need them or don't. She has seen me through my divorce and when I started dating again. Lord, she deserves some kind of medal for all the fabulous advice she gave me during that period of time! When she hurts, I hurt. She is strong yet a tender spirit. I pray daily that she finds the man that deserves the wonderful person that she is. I love the friend that she is, has become and will be years to come. She is my kindred friend.

{7.24.07}

my fancy

Things that tickle my fancy:

a.) feeling completely recharged from my vacation. b.) the state of being madly in love with adam. c.) riding in adam's new fast car. d.) date night. e.) my new green purse and watch. f.) a clean desktop. g.) new goals. h.) brenner's refrigerator magnet messages i.) new music on my ipod. j.) burt's bees lip shimmer.

Things that annoy my fancy:

a.) getting sick on vacation. b.) hacking up a lung last night. c.) lack of motivation to exercise or eat healthy. d.) feeling completely helpless. e.) martyrs who seek sympathy for their plight. f.) the jerk who hit my car and RAN. g.) returning to work to a nice heaping pile of CRAP. h.) my shoe box this is at least 20 degrees warmer than the temperature outside. i.) knowing i have a working air conditioner NOT in use. j.) the cracks in my nose.

{7.23.06}

back east

My last day on vacation. Truly a sad thing. I could easily get used to sleeping in until 10am every morning and doing whatever I wanted for the day. Our trip back East was fabulous. The wedding was picture perfect and so was meeting Adam's family. We had so much fun. I'd like to thank the makers of Dramamine, no parent should ever travel without this wondrous medication.  For most our travels via plane, train, subway and car Brenner did great. He rarely complained but did ask "Are we there yet?" about a million times. He's our traveling champ. I did come home with a nasty cold and cough, most likely from the yummy circulated air on the plan. We were planning on making the trip to Trinity Lake for a few days with friends, but I couldn't travel one more mile feeling the way I did. Adam was such a sweetie and surprised me with a basket of goodies for my cold.

Friday we decided to car shop for Adam. He was born to drive an Audi A4 Quattro turbo, standard, Dolphin Grey exterior with light grey leather interior. It's a sweet ride and so much fun to drive. Yes, he let me in the driver's seat...but only once thus far. Jen picked me up at the dealership to meet her Aunt and friends for drinks at The Blacksmiths for Happy Hour. After hours of eating, drinking and laughing we drove to 7th Street where Adam and Lauren joined us for a few beers. Before heading to Kayo's to continue our girls' night, Adam took us for a little joy ride. Great fun.

Saturday was date night for Adam and I. We watched "Click", had dinner reservations at Pine Tavern and strolled down to Drake Park to complete our evening. We plan to have date night on a weekly basis.

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from our trip to Maine, New Hampshire and Mass.

 

{7.13.06}

happy friday

Happy Friday to me, happy Friday to me, happy Friday to meeeeeeee...happy Friday to me! It's my Friday today and I couldn't be happier. The audit is over and in 2 hours 21 minutes and some seconds until my vacation officially begins. Minus the anxiety attack I had this morning after writing my to-do list for the third time I'm really excited about our trip to Maine. I have ALL my packing to do tomorrow before we leave for Portland to catch a late flight back East. Why oh why do I wait until the very last minute to get anything done lately? I've never been this way...NEVER. I'm such an obsessive organizer and planner and ponder the reason for this ridiculous behavior. Effective immediately, I Melissa Marie Jane Mooney McIntosh resign as CEO for people pleasing. For assistance, please contact someone else...anyone. Thank you very much and have a nice day.

Lunch was nummers. Minta and I escaped to Italy (aka Puleo's) for lunch today. We spent the hour outside, surrounded by pretty flowers and tucked away nicely from the hustle and bustle of life. It's a shame I told my boss where we were going because I could have easily spent the afternoon chatting with Minta and drinking Arnold Palmers...eeeeeeeeasily. 

Tonight I promised Jen I'd drive in for girls' night at her house. I know I have bunches to do but I need a Jen fix. Even though we live only 20 miles from each other, it feels like hundreds. I wish we lived in the same town, neighborhood, or house. But then again we probably wouldn't get anything accomplished other than drinking good wine and giggling over our random silliness.

Until we meet again (10 days or so) kisses and hugs to all.

{7.12.06}

weeds and whiskey

Do you remember the neglected flower bed, full of weeds, I spoke of a few blogs ago? Well I tackled them last night BARE handed. Either I'm a very determined individual or plain stupid. These babies were almost as tall as me (no lie) and thorny as all get out. Man howdy, my hands are extremely sore and stiff this morning. Gloves on my list. Check.

Once again I over-booked my week and wonder why I do this to myself. We leave for Maine on Friday and I've yet to think about packing. Tonight is girls' night with Heidi and Cheryl, lunch with Minta and girls' night with Jen and Erica tomorrow. Always a good time to catch up with the girls but I hope I can stay engaged in conversation without mind-wondering off to my long list of to-do's.

I best get in the shower and find a mild sedative or flask of Whiskey, whichever is readily available to get me through another day with the auditors. Groovy.

{7.10.06}

about camping

While doing the laundry this morning at 5am, I found myself smelling every piece of clothing that smelled like campfire smoke. I love the smell. It immediately takes me back to my favorite memories with my family.

We had a great weekend together and I can't wait until next year. I am however finding the older I get the less amount of time camping I can tolerate. I can NOT just sit and do nothing. Two days max and I'm ready to get back into my busy routine. Call me crazy, or maybe just not lazy. Whichever we had a great time swimming, floating, canoeing, fishing, roasting s'mores, drinking and reminiscing for hours. I love my family.

10 things I enjoy about camping:

1.) Spending time with family. 2.) Fishing. 3.) Drinking beer at 10am. 4.) Nature walks. 5.) Eating ALL day long. 6.) Chirping birdies. 7.) Picking berries for breakfast. 8.) S'mores. 9.) Mid-night canoe rides to the middle of the lake during a full moon. 10.) Peacefulness. 

10 things I dislike about camping:

1.) Packing everything including the kitchen sink for only one night. 2.) Unpacking everything including the kitchen sink. 3.) Dirty feeties and fingernails. 4.) Bug bites. 5.) Serenading frogs at 2am. 6.) Campfire coffee. 7.) Finding mysterious dead insects in Brenner's pockets. 8.) Having to pee in the middle of the night. 9.) Running out of good beer. 10.) Laundry.