highlights of the 2 year shrek party

this is what happens when jessica babysits...

I borrowed Jessica's camera card to get pictures from the Shrek party and this is one I discovered from months ago. Love it!
Thanks Jess for tending - I probably still owe you dinner or something for doing that. I should probably get on it!

modbe sale

Get on over to the modbe website as soon as possible!

They are having a big sale!

Put me down as your consultant - #1928. Help a sister out!

I just received my package today so hopefully this new adventure will begin soon!

Thanks!

two.

Happy Birthday Ellie!
I hope you had a fantastic day!
We love you pretty girl!



More pictures to come - and some that look like she is actually having a good time!

it's over.

the privacy that is. We are now public again! Tell your friends!

And...

I am in desperate need for a new blog design - who can help this somewhat computer illiterate person out?
edited - thank you Lindsay!

modbe. that's me!

You are looking at (or better yet, reading) that I will be your new modbe clothing consultant. So, get your cute stuff from me! Once everything is finalized, I will hopefully have a link on the side for better access. So check it out now so you can get your wishlists going! New stuff coming out in September...

Also, when this happens - we will no longer be private anymore. So lucky you!!

in search of...

I am looking for some sort of drink that can go in a large cooler on a hot day. Preferably one that I can add Sprite too or something. Not to offend, but I know these kind of drinks are big at the Mormon get togethers. So, I am hoping someone can help me out!
Thanks!

we're back and it's only 109 degrees

As I mentioned before, we went to Utah for a long weekend. Just ask 75% of my blog readers - I would say that is about the ratio of people I saw. Be at a bbq or the parade or just walking on the street - I saw people!

And now, for a quick recap...

Thursday - headed out bright and early with the parents and Ellie. Ellie is a very good car traveler. Especially when Shrek or The Wonder Pets are playing. We stopped in Nephi for some gas and food. It was pretty much the worst Burger King food we have had in a long time. I would recommend you skip Nephi all together in your road travels. Hung out at Emilee's house for most of the day and then had a rip roaring card game of Hand and Foot. I used to play this game with the Hamilton's all the time back in the day, and was reintroduced to it after my parents got back from Hawaii and learned it. Now, we play it every chance we get. It's pretty funny playing any sort of game with the parents since I don't remember the last time either of them said - hey, let's play a game.


Friday - Happy 4th of July! We went to the Evergreen Park parade and met up with Liz and her cute family.

This picture of Ellie and Meredith was taken right before they fell to the ground. Oops.
The parade was pretty much a bust. This parade or the carnival that happens after was pretty much a staple for me growing up. But, I don't know if it's just lame now that I am older or if it just used to be better like I think it was. I'm going with the later on this one. At least Ellie was comfortable...


Later that night, we went to a bbq at my cousin Andy's house and then watched some fireworks.


Saturday - We all headed up to Park City where we went to dinner at Wasatch Brewery and some ice cream for Ellie and then of course more games of Hand and Foot. And I can't forget about the t-shirt that I picked up for Joaquin.


Sunday - We went to Park Silly Fest. It is a very cool thing and I suggest all you Utahn's go. I picked up a new necklace and a frame that somehow I need to steal the idea and make them myself for profit. Had a bbq with more cousins at Emilee's house. It was fun to see everyone again and meet some new people. And, I'm so glad Ellie had fun with her cousins. She doesn't get around little kids much so it's good for her. And of course, I only got maybe one picture. Taush - thanks for the gift, now I can print all my recipes in recipe size form! Shawni, it was good to see you and your husband - I'm sure you have been told this before but you guys look alike! You know that is a good sign! And congratulations! Chelsie - it was good to finally meet you! The dessert was delicious - maybe you should sign up for the next Food Network star. I would ask you for the recipe but I am kidding myself if I think I could possibly make those! And, if you guys happen to move out this way, I would go visit. That should be incentive enough!

Monday - yes, I didn't go back on Sunday and I was so happy! Did a little running around and then lunch and of course a sno shack before the dreaded ride home. Thank you Jessica for driving! This whole trip was worth it - I didn't have to buy a cent of gas!

And that was supposed to be a quick update but in all actuality, I'm sure I forgot some stuff!

Happy July.

So would this day be considered hump day for the year?

Thanks to house seats and me being at the right place at the right time, Joaquin and I are going to see Bette Midler tonight. Got super lucky on getting those tickets. Hopefully Ms. M will be a good show.

I have a 6 day weekend coming up. Can it get any better than that? Why, yes it could. It could be a whole month weekend if I didn't have to go to work. Someday...

This is the month that Ellie turns 2 years old. Freaky. And the fact that I still look like I'm pregnant is even more freaky. I'm blaming it on the age. If I was like some of my friends, I would have kids old enough to babysit mine at this point and my body would be back to normal. Oh well, let the party planning begin!

We have 2 tickets to Peter Frampton at the Red Rock on July 11th that we won't be using if anyone wants them.

I have someone interested in another one of my Craigs list postings. If I do infact meet with the guy, I'm taking the goods to Smith's. And not to bring up Dave again, but he did mention that when he got lost, he went to that Smith's and was so happy because he found a fountain that he could use for his yard. See it all turned out swell.

And the countdown begins: 46 days until I will be married to a 40 year old. A 40 year old! I remember when that just seemed really old. Now I'm almost married to one. I guess when you are almost there yourself, 40 is like the new 20. If only we felt that way!

So much planned for the Utah trip: 4th of July parade, IKEA, bbq at cousins house, bbq at sisters house, Park City, Ellie swimming, farmers market. I know there is more, I guess we'll just figure it out when we get there!

I hope everyone has a fantastic July and if you are Canadian - Happy Canada Day. Eh.

here we come. again.

Ellie and I are heading out to SLC again for the 4th of July weekend. This time however, Joaquin won't be joining us. I told you, he only comes about every 10 years.

Anyway, we will be around Salt Lake and Park City. And I am already getting sick to my stomach thinking about all the people I might run into at the Evergreen parade.

so I don't forget.

tonight -

Ellie went potty HERE!

She was eating popcorn and said "This is delicious"

She grabbed the Shrek video and said "Watch Shrek, and Donkey, and Princess Fiona"

She took a package of wrapping paper and said "baseball" and proceeded to swing it like a bat.

She kept counting to 12 over and over.

23 months

Just a few little tidbits of little Ellie before the big 2 years!

Her favorite saying "what happened?"
She loves Shrek (as seen in the picture)

She can climb in and out of her high chair and freaks out if you try to help her. Love the independent stage!
She LOVES to swim.

She has slept for one consecutive week in her own bed!
Whenever she sees the camera, she says cheese but hardly ever looks at me (like this picture)

The potty thing didn't really take - she really only does it at yaya's house.
She loves to act like she is playing the wii whenever we are. I'll have to try and get a video of that - hilarious.
She actually talked to me on the phone yesterday. She said she was swimming at yaya's house and having fun and that she loved me. Usually, she is scared of talking to people on the phone, I think she is wondering where the hell they are.

She sings The Wonder Pets theme song all the time. Doesn't matter if it's on tv or not.
When she doesn't talk to someone or covers her eyes, she says she is being shy.
If you ask her what she wants for dinner, she will say guava. Unfortunately, it is the baby food variety.
She never says yes. Always yep or ok.
She's got Joaquin's skin. So basically, I'm going to be the white one always!
And, she is going to see the dolphins at the Mirage tomorrow!

in search of...

Some good easy summer recipes.
Preferably something that doesn't require me turning on my oven or stove.
Because I don't know if I have mentioned this or not but
it is HOTTER THAN HELL here.

dave.

Yesterday, I decide it's about time to start diving into my to do list that has been around for months. So, I list some things on craigslist to cross that off.
I list this.

Little did I know, I would get three emails from three different buyers in a matter of minutes.
What, are people just searching popcorn makers to see what pops up every second?
Anyway, I get an email from Dave. Seems normal enough. Says he has cash, he lives in the area, he can hop in his car right now to come pick it up. I email him back to say we are leaving in 30 minutes so come now. Joaquin then calls him with directions. That is when I should have been warned.
They were on the phone for about 10 minutes just giving directions. I thought he lived in the area???
Wait 45 minutes, no Dave.
We leave for the pool. I have my phone with me and in the hour that we were at the pool, I had gotten 10 emails.
Here is just an example...
IT'S 4 30 ...please please call me...i want to come there to buy the popcorn machine...PLEASE PLEASE CALL ME...I GOT LOST BEFORE ...I DIDNT HAVE YOUR NUMBER TO CALL YOU AND GET BETTER DIRECTIONS.....PLEASE CALL ME....IM WAITING BY THE PHONE....PLEASE...I GOT LOST MAPQUEST WAS SO WRONG....PLEASE CALL ME AS SOON AS YOU CAN PLEASE!!!
Meanwhile, I told Joaquin, I'm just going to sell it someone else who inquired and tell this guy he is really creeping me out. After all, he can't find my house. He has no idea where I really live!
So, we go eat at the parents house and then I get this email...
Hi....its now 10 minutes to 7 and i'm going to try to drive there again....This time i went to google map to get directions...I think there was a mix up....it said take exit 23 "To" get to Town Center Dr...and i was thinking there was a town center exit in summerlin somewhere and thats where i got all confused because i dint see that exit , then i started to ask people all over the place for directions and where those streets were....Anyway i'm so sorry i got lost but now im goingto get in my car and try this again...PLEASE PLEASE LET ME BUY THE POPCORN MACHINE PLEASE.....I GOT LOST BEFORE SO PLEASE GIVE ME THE CHANCE TO BUY THIS....PLEASE......I 'm leaving now its just almost 7 pm now and i pray you will be there.....PLEASE PLEASE LET ME BUY THIS POPCORN MACHINE!!!!!!!!! I Dont have a cell phone so i cant call you...if your not home when i get there i will wait for awhile and then i guess i can only leave you a note on the door....PLEASE PLEASE Sell this to me please!!!!....i'm so sorry i got lost before....I feel stupid now and extrea,y upset and worried that your going to sell it to someone else....PLEASE GIVE ME THE CHANCE TO GET IT...I went to google maps and i now know why i got lost i think....the other problem is i couldnt call you because your number came up privaye on my phone and i didn't have any number to call you when i was lost before....PLEASE PLEASE LET ME BUY THISD POPCORN MACHINE!!!!!!!....I'M going to drive there again now and i hope and pray that you will be home......i have the cash....PLEASE SELL IT TO ME PLEASE! ...I GOT LOST BEFORE AND THIS TIME WHEN I DRIVE THERE AGAIN I WILL NOT GET LOST..I looked VERY Carefully at the google directions and i know now what to do...So now its 7 20 pm as i finish this email and i hope to see you there....
So, now he really has directions. We are screwed.
We come home about 9:30 and who comes in the driveway right after us? Duh. I think he was hiding around the corner just waiting.
I text Jessica.
Me - Guess who is here?
Jessica - Psycho! Don't let him in the house.
Me - Too late.
Jessica - You're f*****d.
Me - Thanks.
He finally buys the machine after asking tons of questions and tells us he is a movie editor. I'm guessing porn - had that freak look about him.
Then the conversation went like this...
Dave - why are you getting rid of this?
Joaquin - oh, we are just changing things around.
Dave - oh, so are you selling anything else?
Joaquin - (before Dave even finished the question) - NO!
And then I watched out the blinds to make sure he didn't kill my husband while he carried it out to the car for him.

And if you have read this far, I'm sorry. There is probably a lot of useless info in there but I just had to get it out. I have three other things listed. Let's hope everything else goes okay!

numbers

3 - the number of continuous nights that Ellie has slept in her big girl bed.

2 - the number of songs that we stayed for at the Crosby, Stills and Nash concert this weekend (luckily it was free).

12 - the amount of dollars spent on a Malibu and Coke at the concert (totally ridiculous, but thanks dad none the less).

2 - the number of videos watched this weekend - Goya's Ghosts and Good Luck Chuck.

15 - the number of emails from Dave, my craigslist stalker, in a 5 hour time span. Might have to have a post just about that.

7 - the amount of scrapbook pages done in one day.

102 - the temperature right now as I type this. It's 11pm.

3 - the number of new readers I have on the blog. Jan and Jen, thanks for the comments - Stephanie, are you just lurking???

want in?

Anybody? Anybody? Anybody want to go
to this with me?

she did it.

After watching Elmo's potty time video on the way back from SLC, she did it. Ellie went potty in her own toilet yesterday. She did it at my moms house, and LeeAnn was kind of enough to save the evidence and flush it after I got there. What a lady!
Anyway, after watching the video, Ellie kept saying no diapers anymore and not a baby anymore. However, she has yet to do it again. I guess I better go out and buy a mini toilet!

music got to have.

Priscilla Ahn finally has a full length cd out. Get it. You won't be sorry! Or if you want a free listen, she is the free Starbucks artist of the week.

weekend sum up

We are back. Made it home Saturday night.
We headed to SLC on Thursday afternoon. Did I mention Joaquin doesn't do Utah? The whole way up, Joaquin kept saying this is really pretty up here and he kept taking pictures to show his mom. I think the last time we were there, we were either driving in the dark or it was winter.
Anyway, Friday morning we take Ellie to Hogle Zoo. She loved it. So did Joaquin. He was very impressed in my planning skills.

Then we head over to the U of U bookstore for a quick run in for a t shirt and then off to the can't go to SLC without eating Noodles & Co. A quick get ready session and we are off to dinner for the first day of the reunion.
The reunion was a good time and it was good to see everyone again. Again, Joaquin even had fun with everyone and even said he would do it again. This was very big for him! And little Ellie got in on the bingo action.

McKellar's did an excellent job at planning the event.
After the reunion festivities, we headed over to Hogswollow for some drinks. No Malibu rum. WTF?
Next morning I had planned on going to the farmers market since it was opening that day but things just didn't work out. Too bad, I think Joaquin would have been impressed with the planning again!
Headed over to Melaney's again for some lunch and more games and then we headed out back to Vegas. We had to leave in a hurry and didn't really get to say goodbye to everyone as my child decided to let the neighborhood know she was there with all her screaming. That was fun. Didn't even make a stop at IKEA.

Got home and had to get ready for the next day - Joaquin's mothers birthday party.
Now, if I had written this post yesterday, it would have been a huge bloody vent. But, lucky readers, it's a new day and I have since recovered. Thank you Starbucks.
That is all I am going to say about that.

And I am feeling the need to do something productive every day. Does emptying the dishwasher count?

this is such a good day!

Toad the Wet Sprocket
On Sale Fri, 06/13/08 10:00am

Toad the Wet Sprocket
House of Blues Las Vegas, Las Vegas
Sun, 08/31/08 8:00pm
Find Tickets | Get a text message reminder


Just got this message in my email from ticketmaster. I am one happy girl!

m.i.a.

This time tomorrow we should hopefully be snug in bed at the Marriott. In Salt Lake City. Getting in for the Bagley family reunion. And I will have to take Joaquin's picture at some spots you might recognize (that is if we can get out) to prove that he does come to Utah every 10 years or so.

Have a good weekend!

e's

I am on the lookout for letter e's. You know the big kind that you would put on a wall or a shelf...
I want to put them in Ellie's room when I get around to redoing it.
I need to start surfing antique stores. But I just thought I would put this out there, if anyone ever sees one - buy it! I promise I will pay you for it!

misc

just a little note to say thank you to all of you for the birthday comments and emails.
much appreciated.

and

have you noticed my twitter on the side bar? I'm thinking you should all join. It's very fun and you can only use 140 characters per update. could be difficult for some!

and

Sarah, if you are reading this - I don't know you from Adam but your package was sent out today, hope you like it!

conversation #2

Me: Ah, you're my little peanut.
Ellie: No, Ellie.
Me: No, you're my little peanut.
Ellie: No, Ellie.
Me: Okay, are you my little peanut Ellie?
Ellie: Yep.

happy birthday

did I mention it was my birthday today?
not sure if I did!!
details to come...
thanks.

so you can plan your summer vacations

around these dates...

Toad the Wet Sprocket tour dates -

06/11/08
Trocadero Theatre, Philadelphia , PA
06/12/08
Starland Ballroom, Sayreville , NJ
06/13/08
Ram's Head Live!, Baltimore , MD
06/14/08
Oronoco Bay Park , Alexandria , VA
06/15/08
The Norva, Norfolk , VA
08/23/08
The Mountain Winery, Saratoga , CA
08/29/08
Canyon Club, Agoura Hills , CA
08/30/08
Coach House, San Juan Capistrano , CA

AND -

Glen Phillips tour dates (former lead singer of Toad)

05/29/08
Shangri- La Ellsworth ME
05/30/08-05/31/08
Loyalist City Folk Festival St. John NB
07/08/08
The Windjammer Isle of Palms SC
07/09/08
The Grey Eagle Asheville NC
07/10/08
Belcourt Theatre Nashville TN
07/13/08
Unplugged in the Park Atlanta GA
08/22/08
Hutchins Street Square, Performing Arts Theater Lodi CA
10/11/08
The Ark Ann Arbor MI
11/01/08
Pollak Auditorium W.Long Branch NJ

AND -

Joshua Radin tour dates -

15-Jul TUE Tucson, AZ Club Congress
16-Jul WED Phoenix, AZ Clubhouse
18-Jul FRI Austin, TX The Parish
19-Jul SAT Dallas, TX Palladium Lone Star Room
20-Jul SUN Houston, TX Warehouse Live Studio
22-Jul TUE Nashville, TN Exit/In (18+)
23-Jul WED Atlanta, GA Center Stage
24-Jul THU Birmingham, AL Workplay Theatre
25-Jul FRI Greensboro, NC Greene Street
26-Jul SAT Baltimore, MD Recher Theatre
28-Jul MON Philadelphia, PA The Trocadero Theatre
29-Jul TUE Alexandria, VA Birchmere
30-Jul WED New York, NY The Fillmore NY at Irving Plaza (16+)
31-Jul THU Boston, MA Middle East Downstairs (18+)
1-Aug FRI Montreal, QC Studio JPR
2-Aug SAT Toronto, ONT TBA
3-Aug SUN Cleveland, OH Beachland Ballroom
5-Aug TUE Cincinnati, OH 20th Century Theatre
7-Aug THU Detroit, MI The Crofoot Ballroom
8-Aug FRI Chicago, IL House of Blues
9-Aug SAT Minneapolis, MN Cabooze (18+)
10-Aug SUN Milwaukee, WI The Pabst Theatre
12-Aug TUE St. Louis, MO Duck Room (21+)
14-Aug THU Denver, CO Bluebird Theatre (16+)
15-Aug FRI Salt Lake City, UT In the Venue
17-Aug SUN Seattle, WA Neumo's
18-Aug MON Vancouver, BC Biltmore Cabaret (19+)
19-Aug TUE Portland, OR Aladdin Theater
21-Aug THU San Francisco, CA The Fillmore
22-Aug FRI Santa Barbara, CA Soho Restaurant and Music Club (21+)
23-Aug SAT Anaheim, CA House of Blues
24-Aug SUN San Diego, CA Belly Up Tavern (21+)
28-Aug THU Los Angeles, CA House of Blues

I don't know, maybe it is more about me planning my summer vacations since none of them are coming to my neck of the woods!

numbers

9 - my favorite number thanks to the greatest quarterback to ever play football.
Jim McMahon

68 - the dollar amount of gas to fill up my tank yesterday

2009 - the year that Nordstrom, Crate and Barrel, Macys, Dillards and many more will be open just around the corner from my house

17 - Emilee's birthday was this many days ago and I didn't recognize it on the blog. (and yes I heard about it)


5 - this many more days until my birthday!

0 - notes I hit this morning singing Jessica happy birthday

2 - the number of cops I saw who had pulled people over this morning on the way to work

14 - the number of days until we go to SLC (for a family reunion)

1 - the number of weeks until I am having my first garage sale in Vegas. I put it in print, now it has to be done!

5 - the number of months until the Jimmy Buffett preparty! And if you ever want to see me really get my groove on, this is the place to go (and I'm not talking dancing, although that has been known to happen after a while)

Happy Birthday!

Happy 26th Birthday Jessica.

So are we going to Red Rock or out for Indian food???

Have a lovely day!

where to begin...

First off, it has only been one week since the last post but I have been getting complaints to update. Thank you Taush.

So, what is happening around here???

Not much, that is probably why there has been no posting.

I had pink eye over the Memorial Day weekend - try finding an eye doctor, not going to happen. I got some OTC meds and have been taking care of it myself. How's that for efficient. The unfortunate thing about all of this is I had to wear my coke bottle glasses all weekend. Lovely. And Ellie was spared - that is a fabulous thing.

We went to Lake Mead yesterday, just the three of us. Basically to just go. Ellie loved throwing rocks into the lake after she saw other big kids doing it, so that is we did for about 1/2 hour.



We enrolled Ellie into a gymboree class here in town. Basically I think she is just going to run around with other kids for 45 minutes a week. We'll have to see how that goes. You know if a kid is within seeing distance she freaks out. This should be a joy.

Speaking of little Miss Ellie, she is indeed 22 months today. The pressure of planning a 2 year party and a 40 year party. Anyway, back to Ellie.. we have been having some kind of conversations lately. This was the one today after I picked her up after work.
Me: Ellie, did you go to the park today?
Ellie: Yep.
Me: Did you go on the slide?
Ellie: Yep and the dolphin.
Me: Oh, and the whale?
Ellie: Got all wet. Got all wet. Got all wet. And the dinosaur.
Me: Oh the dinosaur.
(and I kid you not, this came next)
Ellie: The ceratops.
Me: The triceratops?
Ellie: Yep, the dinosaur. Got all wet. Shoes wet.

I'm giving Sesame Street all the credit on the triceratops - go Elmo!
And she has number and letter flashcards that she plays with while we play cards. She had a 20 card the other day - I asked her what it was and she said twenty. How in the hell? I'm thinking two and zero. But no, she said 20. Amazing.
She is also into saying fall down and then she falls on her butt. I guess it's okay since she has padding but I'm thinking, you already have the mongolian spots, can we not add bruising with it.
And then this precious child just poo'ed in the bathtub. Luckily the water was gone but when I went to clean it up she just kept saying "Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh".
I'm telling you - this kid is a sponge.

And again about Tausha, she tagged me a few weeks so I guess I should get on that - here ya go...

Answer the following with only one word.
1. Where is your cell phone? pocket
2. Your significant other? eating
3. Your hair? clean
4. Your mother? wonderful
5. Your father? ditto
6. Your favorite thing? tons
7. Your dream last night? nightmare
8. Your favorite drink? malibu
9. Your dream/goal? money
10. The room you're in? kitchen
11. Your children? eating
12. Your fear? death
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? stable
14. Where were you last night? parents
15. What you're not? 20/20
16. Muffins? Mimi's
17. One of your wish list items? megabucks
18. Where you grew up? Utah
20. What are you wearing? jeans
21. Your TV? on
22. Your pets? none
23. Your computer? mac
24. Your life? entertaining
25. Your mood? chocolate
26. Missing someone? kristine w (live)
27. Your car? acura
28. Something you're not wearing? contacts
29. Favorite Store? scrapbook
30. Your summer? hot
31. Like someone? maybe
32. Your favorite color? green
33. Last time you laughed? today
34. Last time you cried? yesterday

So whoever wants to take the challenge, go for it. One word answers are alot harder than you think.

And a little reminder to go out and get the Sex and the City soundtrack - it sounds like a good one!

less than 3 months away and counting...

As I have mentioned before, I am trying to plan a surprise trip for Joaquin's 40th birthday. I have heard that the surprise party I am planning might not be much of a surprise since Cuban people can't keep a secret. So basically, I have to tell them all the day before and we'll see who shows up.
So, if anyone wants to come to Vegas in August, I'll hook you up with some down home Cuban food.

Anyway, I still haven't figured out where to go on vacation.
My original thoughts were either Denver or Chicago since he has never been to either one. But then I figured those places would probably be more for me than him.
We have both been to NYC so that was out.
We went to Mexico last year and are going again next year so that was out also.
San Diego would be good but we are going there in September.
Then I thought of Santa Barbara. I have heard it is very cool there. However, when I looked up flights and hotel - well, let's just say we could go to Buenos Aires, Argentina for a week for the same price as Santa Barbara for 4 days.
And Buenos Aires was also an option until I saw the 20 hour plane ride.
And Joaquin has yet to update his damn passport.
So, this is where I am now...
I'm thinking Canada (and yes, he will have to get that passport). He has never been and I have only been to Vancouver for 1 day about 20 years ago.
Anyone ever been to Vancouver or Toronto?
Those are the 2 leading cities at this point.
Thoughts? Help me out!

Thanks kids!

numbers.

107 - the temperature it is supposed to be today.

14 - the number of days until my birthday. Normally I don't advertise this but now I figure, what the hell!

24 - the number of days when Joaquin will step foot into Utah again. For those of you that know, this will be a big moment.

2 - the number of days until I host bunco. And there are some kick ass prizes ladies!

2 - the number of days until the American Idol finale - go David.

4 - the number of years I will be married in September.

14 - the number of Ellie's teeth

1 - the amount of dead cockroaches I found this morning in my bathroom - lovely

1 - the number of calls we made to the pest company

378 - the number of minutes until I leave work - that just seems way to long.

finally.

for Emilee.



Emilee has been asking when I was going to post pictures of her new addition Roxy. So here ya go Em.
Enjoy.

And on an Ellie note:
She came home today and said "mom, how you doing"
and later when I asked her for something she said "mom, just a minute"
Oh, this is going to be a joy!

And here she is enjoying her first ferris wheel ride on Mother's Day.

set your tivos.

For Oprah on Thursday.
It has Cher and Tina Turner.
And, Jessica was sitting on the 6th row. If you can see her, she will be the one white girl in the middle of all the sistas!
Here's looking for you kid...

elmo is always better than david blaine.

Last night I was catching up on my Oprah tivo'd shows upstairs when I came to the David Blaine episode. You know the one, where he holds his breathe for 17 minutes. What a freak. Anyway, I was wondering if Joaquin would want to watch this so I go over to the stair rail to yell downstairs with Ellie following right along.

Me: Joaquin.
Joaquin: What?
Me: Did you want to watch David Blaine?
Joaquin: No.

Ellie: Joaquin.
Joaquin: What?
Ellie: Is Elmo on?

bitch, i don't know your bizness.

If anyone has seen Baby Mama you will recognize the title - if not you must go so you can recognize the title. This movie was hilarious. Thanks for joining me Jess for somewhat of a girls day yesterday. We'll have to do it again real soon.


In other news - Happy Cinco de Mayo! Bring on the margaritas! My parents had a rip roarin party last year, lots of food and drink and just general partiness but this year - nada. I guess I'm on my own. So, I'm going to head out to Fresh and Easy for some ceviche for dinner - yum!

And, since I haven't done this in a while - next 5 on the ipod.
1. Merry Christmas Darling - The Carpenters (seriously this just came up - I have to get this Christmas music off of here!) So, this doesn't count.
1. Jungle Love - Morris Day and The Time (o-e-o-e-o)
2. (Looking For) The Heart of Saturday Night - Shawn Colvin
3. Tailor Made - Colbie Caillat (really need to get her off here as well)
4. Dead End - The Format
5. I Feel The Earth Move - Carole King
and because those were just wierd - the next 5...
6. Happiness Is a Warm Gun - Beatles (Thanks Darryl)
7. Rocks and Water - The Weepies (Thanks Em)
8. Landed - Ben Folds (LOVE him)
9. The Things We Do For Love - 10cc (love those 70's tunes)
10. Boom Bam Respite - Howard Jones
again wierd but I don't want to bore you with 5 more!

Oh, and just as I finished typing all of that - Pete Yorn came up. It's already starting out to be a super next 5! (It's the simple things that make us so gosh darn happy!)

cool happy things.

1. Neil Diamond on American Idol. Totally reminded me of my younger days when my dad would crank this album on Saturday morning. Loud.


2. Task management for the mac. If you are anything like me, you always have lists around.

3. this song - High School by Jeremy Fisher

4. Color Splash with David Bromstad because sometimes we are lucky enough to see him work shirtless.

5. If I had another kid, these are super cute.

oopsy.

Ellie turned 21 months on Sunday and I totally forgot to document anything.
So here goes...

"oopsy"
"right there" as she is pointing to something
"1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,14,14,14"
"mom, where you"
"i love you"
"thank you mom"
"bless you"
"i-ya did it"
"bella took it"
"who"
"what"
"why"
"i know"
"hum" as she puts her finger to her lips

These are just some of the things she has been saying lately. It cracks me up that she can almost talk in full sentences (short sentences that is) and that she usually knows what she is talking about. I know there are more, I just can't think of some more right now as usual...
Joaquin actually said the other day, when did this child become such a chatterbox? She is talking non stop!

Here she is driving a monster truck at Chuck E Cheese on Sunday for our friends birthday. To which she kept calling Chuck E Cheese - Mickey Mouse.

we're still here.

We're here. Just haven't felt much like blogging lately. Not that anything isn't happening around here, just tired of the whole blogging world for some reason. Perhaps I should get back out there...

I'll just give you a little update on today.
This morning Joaquin and I went took Ellie to see Elmo Grows Up. She had a blast and we took about 200 pictures in a matter of 90 minutes. She was dancing and singing and pretty much loving every minute of it. It was very cute to see it with her.




And this is for you mom - we were walking into the Cox Pavilion which is adjacent to the Thomas & Mack and Ellie saw that part of the building was painted a red/orange and said "Look, I-Ya did it"

Hope all is well with everyone and I may just join the blogging world again real soon...

fess up.

Okay,
Which one of you out there is from San Juan Capistrano, or Parsippany, New Jersey? Not to put anyone on the spot (again) but who is it? I may just have to come out and visit!

wait.

I guess I didn't get the memo.
Who in the hell invited Mariah Carey to American Idol.
Aagh!
My night would have been ruined. Good thing I have Juno as a backup!

friendly reminder.

Go out and get it. Today!

ellie's test.

balmy.

It is supposed to be 92 degrees today.
It is April 14th.
The end.

100% my child.

Me: Ellie, do you want to go to...
Ellie: Target?

first for everything.

Yesterday I was in the other room. This is what I came out to.
You might have to click the picture to make it bigger.
But, God bless magic erasers!

I had to take a picture and of course, she had to cover her eyes!

fair day

We headed out to Logandale, Nevada today to go to the Clark County fair. It is seriously about an hour away. All you SLC folks, have it easy.
Ellie loved it, she was very excited to see all the animals.
Before we went, the conversation went like this...
Me: Ellie, do you want to go see the pigs?
Ellie: OK
Me: And the cows?
Ellie: OK
Me: And the goats?
Ellie: OK, and lambs?
So away we went.
She learned how to make music.

She tried to ride a tricycle. Basically, Joaquin just had to push her around.

And, this was a proud mom moment. Joaquin had gone in with her to walk around with her while she went on the pony ride. She didn't want any of it. She wanted to do it all by herself. She was even giving us high fives as she went around. This was very cool considering just a few months ago she was freaking out about riding a carousel with me next to her.

I basically had to drag Joaquin to the fair since it is so far away, but he agreed it was a good time and good fair food so it might just have to be a yearly thing!

smokin

I am smokin in the money. I got second place in the NCAA tournament at work giving me $50 more bucks! Considering I had no idea what in the hell I was doing, I would say that's pretty good. I think it all has to do with the fact that I picked Siena in the first round. Totally lucked out on that one, but I got married at the golf course with the same name - how could I not pick it? Sadly though, all my winnings are gone - and not on shoes. It's called rental properties. Damn rental properties and the problems that come along with them.

Just watching American Idol while blogging and go David Cook for singing Our Lady Peace - another band I once met. Thanks Liz.
However, it just might get him kicked off...

Okay, we went private so only a select few of you can know read this and I know who you are so you all better comment at some point! And not to drop names or embarrass anyone, but Mary Neff - who knew?

weekend happiness.

I have lived in Las Vegas for about 13 years now on and off, and this weekend was my first time ever hitting a royal flush! It was so exciting, I wanted to take out my camera phone but didn't want to look like an idiot. So, I went with the flow that this happened to me all the time! Bad news, I was only playing nickels so it was only $200.00. However, I'm not one to be too greedy so I took it and didn't look back that I could have won more.

Joaquin and I went to Hachi this weekend at Red Rock. I know I used to rave about this place but now I just think it is over-rated. Not so good anymore. And, it sucks because it's just a hop, skip and jump away.

I got a few things done on my to do list this weekend. That is always nice to cross things off. And one of those things is to go private, but I left all the emails at work. So, expect for that to get crossed off later today.

Also, it's not confirmed yet, but I am thinking of going to SLC for the 4th of July, and bringing Ellie. Joaquin hasn't left anything in Utah so he won't be coming. I know it is still 3 months away, but that is how boring my life is right now that I can get excited about going to SLC.

And, last but not least (this is becoming my favorite part), my next five on the ipod.

1. Symbol In My Driveway - Jack Johnson
2. Bullet and a Target - Citizen Cope
3. Strange & Beautiful (I'll Put A Spell On You) - Aqualung
4. Cryin' - Chris Isaak
5. Dearly Beloved - Faith Hill

That was a bad 5. Since I was actually paying attention, I had to fast forward through most of those. I guess I should probably clean out music every now and then...

i got nothin'

I really have nothing to say today but thought I would post anyway.

Going over to the parents with the fellas for Dad's famous chili verde. Yum-o.

And, I had so much fun yesterday posting my next five on the ipod that I might just make it regular thing - lucky you!

1. What's Up - 4 Non Blondes
2. Today - Joshua Radin
3. All I Want Is You - Barry Louis Polisar
4. Jenny Was A Friend Of Mine - The Killers
5. Amazing - Josh Kelley

Pretty good and again totally random five - makes you actually listen to the music when you are paying attention.
And thanks Todd for the new music - I'll have to check it out.

random blahs.

Oops, I forgot to thank my mother for making Ellie's easter dress. Thanks mom, it was and is darling.

While driving to work this morning with my sunroof open (yes, it is that nice) I was smelling bleach on the freeway. Major bleach. The first thing that popped in my head was that someone in the surrounding neighborhood was trying to really clean up a crime scene. Is that wierd?

I finished 2 scrapbook pages for my new "client" last night. Now I only have 48 more to go by May. Nice!

Sorry if I offend some of you but I am so, so sick of Colbie Caillat. If I hear her on the radio, it is an instant change. No matter what song. And I actually purchased her album about a year ago on itunes. I'm never going to get that $10 bucks back.
Does anyone have any new good artists for me? I'm always on the lookout...

And on that note, the next 5 songs on shuffle on the ole ipod are:
1. One-U2
2. Always-Bon Jovi
3. Good Times Gonna Come-Aqualung
4. All That I Want-The Weepies
5. For Nancy-Pete Yorn

How's that for random?

it's april. fool.

Where did March go?

Last post was about going private. It will still happen, most likely later than sooner. I have everyone's emails from the comments and emails you have sent me so you will be covered. If anyone else wants in, let me know. Sometimes I just feel like I have to vent about things without some people reading it (none of you by the way who commented) but then I get over myself. We'll see if it happens again in the near future.

So, between then and now, Ellie turned 20 months on Thursday.



So, again, a little update. Mainly for me but feel free to read along. She counted up to 15 the other day without the help of Sesame Street. I asked her what an iguana was and she told me. I seriously have no idea where she learned that one. She is getting to be very shy around people her height. Adults, she can be okay around, but, put a kid in the mixture and she will run the other way. She has started liking orange juice and she loves Cafe Rio quesadillas. She also loves the cookies I make. She is also starting to help put her toys away and she takes things to the garbage. She still loves Sesame Street but has now taken to Winnie the Pooh as well. She did watch the Jungle Book and The Bee Movie the other day and liked them both. However, she is also starting to hit. Time out is going to be full force in our household! And, honestly, I have no idea what the hell I am doing in the timeout dept - I'm old. They didn't have that when I was kid. I just got grounded for life. (Remember that mom and dad - of course you don't).
Anyway, despite all of this, she is still my ellie belly and my pretty girl. Love you.

We also had Easter brunch over at the parents last Sunday. Ellie had herself a miniature egg hunt. Had no idea what was going on. Hoping next year, she "gets it".


This is usually the kind of picture I have been getting lately when I pull out the camera. Isn't this stage starting a little early?

And, here she is playing with a real live easter bunny. Thanks to my parents neighbors for supplying the fun.

We also had some out of towners come visit us this past weekend. My 2 aunts and 2 cousins came to visit us from Utah. All they wanted to do was shop. And shop. And shop. And, that they did. I still hadn't charged my camera since Barry Manilow so I didn't take one picture. But, I'm sure if you go here or here they might have some pictures for you at some point. It was a fun weekend and you guys will have to come down again. Glad you made it back home safe after your snow storm. Sucks going into that after a lovely weekend - doesn't it?

And then next we move on to this weekend where Andy and Daren will be coming down to golf. I so wish they didn't already have 4 players, I would love to drive the cart. It's the best part of golf!

Did anyone catch Dancing With The Stars last night? Was it just me or was that Count Von Count singing Roxanne? Of course, without all of the ha,ha,ha's.


I should scoot, but I hope you all did some sort of April Fool - I'm not creative like that so nothing happened around these parts. Maybe you should all give me ideas for something to do next year.

Oh, and lastly, thank you all for your ideas on the 40th birthday trip coming up. I have one in mind, Joaquin just needs to renew his passport!

private, baby.

We're going private!
What this means is if you want to continue reading this (and you know you do) I'm going to need your email address to get you in.
Think of it as a nightclub where I am the bouncer and I will only let a few of you in!
So, if you are an acquaintance, or an acquaintance of an acquaintance, just leave your digits and I'll get you updated.
The blog address will be the same and it probably won't happen until next week but just wanted to get you up to date.
You can leave your email in comments or click on my profile and email me from there.
See you soon...

abby cadabby?

poll

If you were to take your husband on a trip for his birthday, say a 3-4 day excursion - where would you go?
I have some ideas but I think I need some more options.
Can anyone help me out?

after watching the 11 o'clock news...

Turns out the guy that robbed the Credit Union is also linked to robbing a casino here in town last weekend and new developments are that he may also be the one who shot and killed 5 women at a mall in Chicago last month.

Gee, I'm just glad he wasn't just an ordinary bank robber!

whassup?

So kids, what is happening out there?
I've been off for a while chained to my desk so I could get Megan's scrapbook done - Megan if you are reading, it should be in your hands next week. I hope you like it!

But I just thought I should catch you up to date...

Thursday night was date night so we celebrated in style. Manilow style that is!
Thanks to the little thing we are in we went to go see Barry Manilow at the Las Vegas Hilton. And please, don't make me tell you who Barry Manilow is. Anyway, believe it or not, the show was pretty good. My camera ran out of juice after I took a self portrait of Joaquin and I so, sorry, I have no pictures to share. Awww.

However, those of you that actually know me, know that I was pretty much at the Las Vegas Hilton at any chance I got a few, few years back. Thanks to Ms. Kristine W. So finally after many years of being there, I didn't even know my way around the place. I mean, we used to own the place! It was very bitter sweet being there again. I saw Mattie (Liz, remember Mattie)? Remember when I got called up on stage? Remember when Tommy gave us his camera to take pictures of him for his portfolio? Remember meeting Stephanie (aka girlfriend)? Remember going backstage and trying on costumes? Remember taking anyone who would come to visit? Remember running into Joaquin and his girlfriend? Remember trying to sneak Jessica in when she was only 19? The nightclub isn't even called The Nightclub anymore - now it's the Shimmer Caberet - what the hell?
Anyway, if my scanner would actually work right, I would post and post and post many pictures from my day back at the Hilton. Maybe another time. But, as you can tell, I miss the girl and she should really just quit touring and come back to Vegas where I'm sure we would all be on the front row.

Okay, enough of that.

Joaquin got a new job last week. Now he is a loan officer at a credit union here in town. Anyway, he was in training all last week and today was his first day at his branch. In the ghetto. This credit union has branches where some have tellers and others have just loan officers with an atm but no cash on hand. So, this morning on day number one, Joaquin calls me and says some guy just came into our branch and asked where the tellers were. Some lady told him across the way and then that branch proceeded to get robbed 5 minutes later. Did I mention it was in the ghetto? Last week I was joking that I was going to have to call our friend who works for metro to get him a bullet proof vest. I probably shouldn't joke about it anymore...

And last, but not least, I hope every single one of you is wearing green today or at least having a green beer or at least a margarita because those are slightly green and better for you anyway!

Cheers.

observation

Is it just me?
Whenever I see a guy driving a Ferrari, he is always some sort of freak.
Never like Magnum P.I.

And for those of you that have no Idea what in the hell I am talking about. Magnum P.I. was a tv show back in the day. I'm finding it very sad that sometimes I have to explain myself at times like these...