Thursday, October 13, 2011

Goal Setting

There are two major things on my mind these days. Lose weight, and save money. I think pretty much every American has this goal. I thin k I have had these goals my entire life! Sometimes I do very well; then it all disappears! Be it gaining back the weight, or having to spend the saved money on something unexpected.

I have been successful in the weight loss department this time around. So far, since May, I have lost 30 lbs total. I have fallen off the wagon a bit upon returing to Utah. I got out of a routine, and I am just starting to get back into it. So far this week, I lost another pound. I have continued to eat well, splurging every now and again, so I didn't gain any weight. Work and Carson also provide me with a bit of physical activity. However, not to the degree I was getting this summer. I began to do Zumba again daily, and I am feeling better! Less tired, more motivated. I want to stick to my goal!

As far as finances are concerned, things just are not working out like we planned. We wanted to move in with Devin's parents because we assumed the cheaper rent would save us quite a bit of money. Our goal was to have a little extra spending money, and at least $300.00 a month leftover to put into savings for a down payment on a house. I was also thrilled that I would be making more money in a new district. Well, life happens. The extra money moved me to a higher tax bracket- no extra in the check. Gas is more expensive since I have a commute. Carson ended up having to go to daycare. There goes anything "extra" and our savings account. Fabulous! We were in a bit of a tough spot, not sure what to do! We had enough for our needs, but we wanted to be responsible and save as much as we could so we wouldn't have to resort to credit cards and so that we could get a house when Devin graduated. I was really stressed out for a few days. I was really upset, too. I prayed and prayed for a solution. Devin fasted on Sunday. We had a righteous desire, so we decided to turn to the lord for help. I feel like we were immediately blessed. We had some friends give us suggestions. Devin decided to try to donate plasma. He went on Tuesday, and the process took 5 hours- (riding TRAX, screenings, bloodwork, physical, the actual donation, and back on TRAX) We were so glad that he qualified! Also, it didn't make him feel sick afterward, and didn't bother him. It just so happens that the clinic is right next to the U of U, and since he can donate twice a week, he will go after school. That money every month (for as long as he can handle it) will be the EXACT amount we wanted to put into savings. Devin considered getting a job, but we would need something VERY flexible because of our hectic schedules. I am so glad this worked out! Also, yesterday, during a meeting, it was brought up that they needed after school tutors, and the pay would be significant, and the hours would be extremely flexible. I automatically volunteered. I can't express how blessed we feel. I am grateful that things are working out, and I hope that they can continue to.

 
                                                  
I think that if you have goals, you need to have a plan. It is always nice to say, "Oh yea, I want to do this this and this," and then not follow through. How can you? You need a starting place, and you need to have realistic goals. My weight loss goal is 7 lbs a month, but the main goal is making sure I work out at least 20 minutes a day, and make smart choices. For money, the main goal is to save every month, but we have to be more conscience of our shopping decisions, driving decisions, entertainment and so on. If you can set little goals along the way, it can help you accomplish your main goal much more quickly! I won't be sad if I only loose 2, 4, 5 whatever lbs each month, as long as progress is made. I won't mind if we only get $100 in savings because progress is made.

 Maybe this doesn't work for everyone, but for me it is important or I would go crazy and feel like I failed every time. I don't want to spend every month feeling like a failure, because then I would want to quit and give up on whatever it was I was trying to accomplish in the first place. I have learned that from past experience, and this is what works for me. I am curious, what works for you? What have you found that works best? Any input is always appreciated!

Alicia

Monday, October 10, 2011

Carson: 15 months old

Holy cow. I have a 15 month old! Time is going by so quickly! Time flies when you are having fun, blah blah and all of the other standard issue sayings that go along with this.

Carson,

You are so dang funny! You are a walker now, so you think it is fun to run around and spin in circles. Last night you ran right into a wall, bumped your head, and knocked three pictures down. You cried, but once your picture was back up, you pointed and said, "Bubba!?" and then made the rounds with mine and daddy's pictures as well, acting as if nothing happened! You are pretty tough, but we are finding that you aren't fond of some of grandpa's halloween decorations when it is dark! During the day you think that they are funny and say, "ooooooh!" But when the lights are off it isn't very funny! You start to panic and run towards us or if we are holding you try to turn your body as far away as you can or you will point in the opposite direction of the dropping, talking skeletons, as if you want us to get you out of there! Fast!
You still love Snickers! Every time he enters a room you say, "hi doggie!" It is so cute. You still walk over to him and hug him, and you are getting softer when you pet him. The only downside is you have started to pet me and daddy on the face, which is kind of funny. :)
A thing that drives me nuts is that you are so attached to your daddy! You two have this thing where he says, "baby?" and you reply, "daddy!" I try and try and TRY to get you to say mama or mommy, and you shake your head no, or call me "baba". NO! I am mommy! I know that you know this because you called me mommy every day last month! I don't know what has changed but I can tell that you are doing it on purpose to drive me nuts. :) Yesterday, you would say "mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm..........................aaa?" Then giggle. I can tell you are just trying to bug me. :)

You are so cute when you waddle around. We just got you a pair of Tiny Toms and you like to walk with them on. Whenever we return from somewhere or we are in the car, you take them off. You like to peel the velcro back and forth!

Whenever I am sad, like I was Thursday when your great-grandma Nancy was diagnosed with cancer, you walk up to me, hug my leg, get on my lap and cuddle. I appreciate that about you. I can already tell that you are going to be such a sensitive, funny, loving boy- just like Daddy!

You have started to hit, and this month you and I got in a bit of a fight. You hit me in the face very hard a few times. I told you to put your hands down and to be nice with your hands, but you kept hitting. So, I smacked you back! Not very hard- you giggled. And continued to hit me. We went back and forth for a bit, and then I yelled at you. You looked at me, and your little lip quivered, and you started crying! You wrapped your arms around my neck and snuggled in. Even though I was upset, it was so sweet to have you cuddle up like that! We borrowed a book on having nice hands called, "Hands Are Not for Hitting" Hopefully that will help with your new favorite activity.


You are pretty much off baby food now. You occassionally have rice cereal in the morning, but you love waffles with yogurt and fruit! Your new favorite thing is corn with ketchup. Yuck! You were being a stinker and wouldn't eat any of your veggies so I decided to add some ketchup to your corn. It was inspired because now you will eat it every day! I figure it is better than no veggies at all, right!? You will always eat if chicken nuggets are involved. I don't think you should eat them every day, but your dad and Grandma disagree. I don't want you to be a picky eater like your dad was! You need variety. I promise you will thank me later!
I picture you saying, "Thanks mom!" Like in the chicken nugget commercials, every time you get them. I am glad you like at least one thing!

We would like to say "Thanks Carson!" For finally sitting through sacrament meeting with out being a terror last week. We appreciate it. :)

You are so big! And so loved! Always know that. We hope you never doubt or question how much you are adored!

Love,
Mommy (and Daddy, too!)

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Parent-Teacher conferences & a little bit of babbling.

I am sitting here at the most fun location on the planet. Parent-teacher conferences! Let me tell you, for a special ed teacher- they are extremely boring. I appreciate the parents who do decide to come, but it is usually parents that I see every day anyways! As I am writing, a school counselor approached me to see how bored I was- it is a fact that special ed teachers usually stay pretty "un-busy". I have a book out, Ipad, laptop, diet coke, finished work, and lip gloss.Yep- I am prepared! Yesterday we had parent teacher conferences as well. Two days of parent teacher conferences.It is fun to b e able to people watch, match parents to their children and say, "Ohhhh......now I get it! The apple doesn't fall too far from the tree!"

 Yikes. I get Friday off in return so that is good. Friday is also payday. The first one since May! I can't wait. Devin still has school, and we have decided to send Carson to daycare still because it is part of his routine, he really loves it, and we have to pay anyways. :)

When they get home we are headed to the mall to pick up Carson his very first pair of these:
I just adore the Tiny Toms! He is not very into shoes right now, as he is pretty much a full-blown walker. I am hoping these soft, moldable shoeswill encourage him to walk in them, and more importantly, keep them on his feet!  

Here are my favorite quotes from today:

One of my students likes to undress sometimes. Another student, who barely talks, looks at him and says, "HAVE YOU NO SHAME!?" I about died. You may not think this is funny, but if you knew these kids, you'd pee your pants.

Another from an adult to a student: "______, you smell like a taco!"

And, one I hear everyday: "Mrs. Hardman? Do you think I should go fart out in the hall?"

Talk about having no shame.

Monday, September 26, 2011

fancified oatmeal!?

I have been eating oatmeal for breakfast religiously since July. Let me tell you, it gets boring! I am not talking about the delicious little "____& Cream" kinds, either. I'm talking steel cut oats with cranberries or bananas and a small amount of brown sugar. Gets kind of hard to eat, let me tell you!

I love eating oatmeal in the morning because it really fills me up all day. However, last week I was struggling. Dreading having to eat it. Then this morning, I had a genius idea!

Peanut butter, banana and honey oatmeal. OH MY YUM!

I didn't add a ton of peanut butter or honey, that kills the purpose of a nutritious and delicious breakfast. But every bite this morning was a gift from above. Could it be because my tastebuds have been warped from boring oatmeal? I don't really care! I am stuffed, satisfied, and ready for the day. Take that Mr. Quaker.

Sunday, September 25, 2011

A little creativity

I like to to to be creative! I feel like I make an honest effort, anyways. I love exploring Pinterest in my down time. I want to improve myself, so I love looking up new recipes, new ideas for my classroom, and most importantly, new ideas for my little basement! We aren't working with much so every little bit of inspiration is good for me!

In the last few weeks I have:

Refinished a chair

Refinished a dresser

Painted a design on a rug

Made some awesome dinners

Made some fun decorations for home and classroom.

Here is the thing- I feel like when I look at these websites or other people's blogs, I want what they have. Badly! I can't wait until I have my own house, more money, more kids, more space, more everything!

I have been sick and just started sone antibiotics. Last night was the General Relief Society broadcast. I did not feel well enough to attend, so I stayed home. When my mother in law returned, she shared some things that President Uchtdorf shared. The main thing was to be happy now. don't waste your life waiting for the next best thing. Live YOUR life now. We aren't supposed to covet our neighbor, but that can be really hard at this stage in life. It is hard to not want what others who may be a little farther along in the journey than we are. The important thing to remember is to enjoy the journey!

I am grateful that the lord gives us exactly what we need,when we need it. I am inspired to take others creativity, and use it to strengthen and sharpen my own talents. Others talents aren't to be envied, but to be shared so that we might benefit from them in some way. That is the way Heavenly Father intended it I'm sure. I will add some pictures tomorrow of the imperfect yet talent developing things I have been working on!

Friday, September 9, 2011

Carson: 14 months old

Dear Carson,

Tomorrow you will be 14 months old! Here are some things about you that we want to remember forever, like how you always close your eyes when I say, "cheese!"


Likes: Snickers the dog,screaming,dancing, daycare friends, chicken nuggets, trail mix m&m's, any kid of fruit (especially bananas and watermelon), splashing in toilets, drinking bathwater and dog water,bath time, rough housing with Mommy and Daddy,people who wear glasses, being tickled, thunder, climbing stairs, changing the channel, talking on the phone,cars, trucks, unwinding toilet paper, going on walks, opening drawers and making messes in general.

Dislikes: Pasta of any kind, peas, strangers without glasses, not getting his way, diaper changes, being out of food, being prevented from doing any of the above "likes".

Abilities: Can walk a dozen steps before sitting down or falling, says "mama, dada, goggie, bubba, bye, hi, hola" and "yea". Can almost feed himself with a spoon, can pull himself up on anything, can climb up and down the stairs, can dump out containers and put stuff back in, looks at us when we call his name, climb off the bed, blow kisses, play peek-a-boo, can sign "please" and "finished"

Personality: You are pretty funny. You like to laugh a lot, even when you have no idea why you are laughing! To you everything is really funny, or really sad. When you want something, you scream and point, or say, "dis!!!" and point to it. When you don't get your way you scream louder. You like to drop things off of your high chair to get our attention, and then you get mad when we take it away. I promise, it is for your own good! You are very independent, but like to have someone to play with. You are pretty demanding right now, and don't like it when Mommy or Daddy are busy. You like living with Grandma and Grandpa Hardman, because they love to play with you all the time when they are home. You love to rough house and think it is so fun when we tickle you, chase you, or try and scare you by saying "boo!" You get really shaky and laugh when we show you "the claw!" You get so excited and crawl away as fast as you can. You are so much fun! You are just starting to enjoy cuddling again. You love your blankets all of the sudden, and we are finally able to stay for church because you will sit on our laps and snuggle. You like it best when Grandma Hardman snuggles with you. She is really good at putting you to sleep.You love to cuddle with Snickers as well. You like to pet him, but sometimes you get a little rough and pet him too hard. Usually you just lay on his tummy or put your cheek on the top of your head. He sure loves you and likes to follow you around the house. You are a sweet boy with so much love! We are so happy to be your parents!

Love,
Mommy & Daddy

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Analogies

My husband thinks I am smart.


Like, super smart. And he thought this was great.


I was writing my brother Jason, who is on a mission in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida for our church.


I had a pretty eventful day on Tuesday at work. I ended up having physical altercations with three of my students. Hey- coming back from a three day weekend is TOUGH! I won't go into the details, since the nature of my job is private, but I had three sad kiddos. There was hitting, kicking, biting, scratching and bruising, and I was the punching bag for their frustrations. Hey- it's what I'm paid to do!


Anyways, in the letter, I was trying to connect my life to Jason's life in the field. I wanted to give him an anaolgy. Several people that day kept asking me if I was okay. "Are you mad?" "Are you hurt?" "Don't you just hate your job?" No. The answer is simply no. I LOVE my job. This is where the analogy comes in.


Just like missionaries, you are thrown into a new place (for me, new school) with people you don't know.Yet somehow, Heavenly Father gives us the ability to TRULY love those people. I never quite understood how missionaries could love people they didn't know very well. Well, now I do. I barely know my students. Yet, I love them more than anything. I can truly say that I feel such a strong love for them, much like a parent would to a child. They are mine, and I love them.






So how does this relate?


I belive that when you are doing exactly what the lord wants you to do, and you are where he wants you to be, you are blessed with that ability to love. This gift helps me get through the hard times. I am where I am supposed to be, so he is taking care of me. Of us.


Along with that, these are some of the most innocent creatures on the planet. I know now how Heavelny Father can love us unconditionally. We may do silly things, like hit, bite, kick and scream, but he remains calm, loves us through it, and picks us up when we are done, feelings unchanged. Am I comparing my self to him?




ABSOLUTELY NOT.


I am simply saying I GET IT. I have learned this lesson. I hope I pass the test.

Saturday, September 3, 2011

No window basement tour. Enjoy,

Sounds depressing, right? No windows in the living room. Kind of sucks! When my in-laws built this house, this room was intended for my Dad in law to use as a "migrane room." Nice and cool, and dark. When we moved into the basement in April, it made the most sense to use it as our living room. I was skeptical since I am a natural-light lover. We have plenty of light in our bedrooms, thank goodness. First, I wanted to paint the walls a warm shade of yellow to somewhat brighten it up. It didn't exactly work, but I still love it!
 Here is the couch wall. I love the pillows but want a lot more! I pinned some on Pinterest that I would love to add to our couch! I have some fabric and some plans. I adore the ruffle pillow I scored at Costco!
 This is the second refinish on this chair. I love how the aqua looks with the yellow walls. Ignore the dresser. It is a temporary till I get this bad boy finished:


I want to paint it cream and get all new cute Anthro type hardware! I have dreams of a mustard dresser but those will have to wait until we have a house with lots of rooms!

This is my most favorite piece ever. I know it is popular right now, but I liked it back when. I swear this is my motto. It truly helps me get by! I love the green with the yellow wall!
Here is the somewhat cluttered corner. I love the double mirror, my cute owls and the lamp. We need the lighting! On the side of the dresser is where Carson's toy stash. I want to do something cute with the star. Not sure if I want to modpodge paper, paint it, or maybe make it a photo collage. Ideas?

Friday, September 2, 2011

Carson's first steps!

These aren't exactly his very first steps, but they are the most he has ever taken at once! This week we have just been getting two steps here or there. He isn't very happy here, it was time for bed! So glad to capture this moment, albeit shaky! He is getting way too big!
                               Please ignore my hair, no make-up and pj's!

Poop & Art

I have a kid who POOPED his pants yesterday.He KNOWS how to use the bathroom. He is very high functioning. It was not fun- my wonderful principal helped me clean him up. What a GREAT guy! Anyways, I want to decorate my classroom, and I sure do love free subway art! Here are some I am going to print:






I also want to make these super cute banners I found on Pintrest, using math and reading flash cards! Maybe some pennant banners, too. I feel like I will be in this room for awhile, so I want to make it look awesome!

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

New year, new class, new school, new city, NEW EVERYTHING!

A couple weeks I started in Murray School District. I was pretty nervous. I have never worked in another district besides Provo, and I wasn't sure what to expect. I already knew the technology would be lacking, and technology is what I love about special education. There are so many fun things you can do with it in a classroom! And, let's be honest, I got really used to the luxury of having it available!

After a few days of new teacher meetings, (I had to start all over, I still get my years in some respects but as far as PTO and Sick days,- a provisional three years. Boo!)

I met a few people on my new team, and fell in love! I love working with people who know how to get the job done, yet can have a fun time and laugh along the way. I work best under those conditions!

I was able to set up my room with the help of the fabulous lover boy that is my husband. It was a bit of a rush, but we got it done!

On Friday 2 weeks ago, I had 7th graders. Oh boy. So cute, so little! Such dolls! A few toughies, but nothing this pro can't handle! (Ha!) We only had 4 that day and I was covered in sweat, curtousy of no AC and chasing around kids constantly. It is a hard transition to Jr. High!

I had the weekend to recover, but Monday brought the 8th and 9th graders. They were just as cute and fun, and not as difficult! Tuesday was all grades, and we had a few accidents and injuries. All was well, and I was shocked by the amount of support I had and the various amounts of people who came to check on us!

I am loving Murray and Riverview Jr. High so far! Everyone has been so welcoming, and I am thrilled to be working with Severe/Profound students. They have such a sweet, special spirit about them. It is such a blessing to be able to work with kids that you know have a ticket straight to heaven! I hope that I can be all that they need, understand them, love them, and most of all, I want them to know how much I love them and care for them. It is truly a blessing to have this job. I hear a lot of, "Oh, you are going to Heaven!" "What a talent you have!" "You must have so much patience!" "You will be blessed for doing this work!" - I agree with the last statement. I am blessed. Maybe not for the reasons one might think, but I truly feel rewarded every day. The smiles, hugs, and small progress bring so much joy to my life. I can truly say I love my job! Who else can say that? :)
There she be! Can't wait for those spring blossoms to reappear!

Monday, August 29, 2011

Family BBQ, Masterson style.

So before I go any further, allow me to preface this post with the fact that Devin, Carson and I were the only sober ones present. Love my family. They sure like to party!
My uncle Marty is a fantastic BBQ-er. He made us tri-tip, linguica, beans, salad, bread, the works! It was so much fun, and a great way to end out time in California. This was the first time in a LONG time, as in YEARS that we were all able to get together!

 We were pretending to kiss- just being goofy!


 Our pretend kiss turned into Samantha falling and it looking like I am eating her face.

 Gang banger.
 Devin got some sisterly love.
 Don't worry. HE IS NOT really drinking that! (It is a wierd family traditon to take a fake drinking picture when you are a baby. Don't judge.)
Fake kiss for my real lover.
My sisters, myself and Uncle Marty!

I have more pics but blogger is being slow. Oh well.

San Francisco!


Before we headed back home to Utah, we decided to take a trip to San Francisco, to visit our lovely friends, The Pattens! Jeff is currently in dental school there, so we wanted to see there new home! Gena and I have been friends for years and we just adore them! Gena was so gracious to take Carson for the evening so that Devin could check out the city with me! (He has never been!)
 We headed over the golden gate bridge in the glorious bay area fog. Devin was bummed. The whole time I sang the theme song to "Full House." How could you not!?
 The wind was pretty intense. We got out and stopped to lookout at alcatraz and the bridge, but couldn't see too much!
 We headed over to Pier 39 for some touristy stuff. The fog had cleared so Dev got a nice view of Alcatraz!
 Holy mini donut heaven! We decided to try some since the line looked long. We assumed they must be popular. We got a dozen to split, and ended up going back for more! We wanted to bring a BUCKET. Yes. A BUCKET of them back to Gena and the kids!

 We also checked out some fun stores, went to Haight and Ashbury, and drove the windy steep hills!





Upon return, the girls and Carson were having a fun time dancing around to the Tangled soundtrack. They didn't have a pretty dress for Carson to wear. I don't think he minded. :)
Around the corner from the Patten's, on our way out of town, we found an awesome view of the bridge, minus the fog! We needed to take a picture to show to Carson when he is older!
He was pretty tuckered out after a fun vacation. He loves his Milton Monkey!

Thursday, August 11, 2011

La Vie Petite Winner!!!

La Vie Petite Winner!!!



                               Yes. I WON. That beauty in the picture!

I don't even know what to say except for today has been fabulous!

We got back from CA late last night (will blog about that later) and today we have been running on little sleep and adrenaline! We unpacked, I checked out my fabulous new school, unpacked my classroom, went and bought posters to hang in the room, and found out I won this fantastic skirt! I am beyond excited!

My throat hurts now because I was squealing. Carson was concerned and Devin thought I won the lotto or something! I grabbed Devin and we jumped up and down while I shouted, " I WON! I WON!" Over and over again. All I can say is wow.

                                             I feel lucky today!

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Extended Stay

Well folks, it is about time to go home. {Utah}

Last night Carson had his FIRST ever SLEEPOVER! He spent the night at his Grandma and Grandpa's in his Auntie Samantha's room. They were all very excited to have him over! {Jessica, Melissa & my mom & dad} Mia, one of their dogs liked him being there a little TOO much! Carson was laying on my parent's bd drinking his bottle, and Mia got right in his face & licked off his milk dribble. Carson was pretty amused, until Miss Mis got a little too fresh with him & went for the french kiss. That pissed him off a bit. ;) He did not want us to leave! We ended up having to run to the store to get him more milk, because he wasn't going to settle down without a little refill. He fell asleep right after!

It was strange not having him with us, but we slept amazingly well! We even got an extra hour of sleep this morning!  
After I zumba-ed, {is that a word?} I showered and went over to get him around ten. My mom wanted him to stay but I brought him home for his nap. He was in one piece still & seemed happy so it alieviated my concerns and he will most likely stay again before we leave!

After his nap we went & visited my Uncle Marty & Aunt Carolyn. Carson played with their "goggie" and crawled in the grass. it was fun! Tonight Amanda and Danny joined us for some of Grandma's famous Spoon Tacos! {Fancy talk for Nacho's with Taco toppings} We had a fun time visiting!

My friend Mickaela took some wonderful pictures of Carson last week. They are on facebook right now. I will add them to the bloggy when we get home!

Speaking of home, We have decided to leave Tuesday morning instead of Monday. I wanted to stay a day longer because Nancy had a fever and we couldn't really see them today & we still aren't certain about tomorrow. When I talked to my Grandpa on the phone he seemed upset that we were leaving so soon. I felt bad because I wanted to spend some more time with them as well. On Thursday we went to dinner with them but I wanted to be able to hang out with them at their house so they could play with Carson. Now we will do that on Monday!


Getting ready to go home sucks. I want to go home, don't get me wrong, but I don't want to leave! It's like ripping off a band aid I guess. I hate the packing, loading, and the pull out of the driveway. I hate the stop at the gas station and the road out of town to the freeway. I just want to snap my fingers and be back home. I hate goodbye's I guess. I just have to remember it's not a godbye, just see you in October!

Thursday, August 4, 2011

{Guilty} Pleasures.

Let's talk about my current guilty pleasures. Some guilty {and somewhat embarrasing}things that make my day enjoyable. :)


In no particular order:


Big Brother
Jersey Shore
The Today Show
All of the Real Housewives shows
Arrowhead Lemon Water
Diet Pepsi
Bran Muffins
Teen Books
Blog stalking
Taking Silly Pictures of Carson
TMZ.com
Pretty Little Liars
The Secret Life of the American Teenager
Home decor
Slim Fast chocolate shakes
Bananas with Peanut Butter and Honey
Zumba
Walking dogs
Roaming Wal Mart for no reason
Making lists
Planning
Buying cute cothes
Kissing my sweet boys
Night time cuddles
Country Music
Lil Wayne {edited}
Jamba Juice
Gossip Magazines
Thrifty crafts
Thinking about the future
Laying out in the sun 
Plucking my eyebrows
Facial exfoliations
Pedicures
Fun nail polish
Visiting my Grandpa
Reading stories to Carson
Degrassi
90's are all that on Teen Nick
Dirt Road Anthem Remix! Jam of the summer!


Sure! I could say more, but this good. :)

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Sad day.

i was on a walk this gorgeous evening with my sister Jessica, Carson and my Grandma's dog, Molly. As I was walking around the neighborhood, chatting with Jessica and listening to Carson sing his lovely song I dubbed "Mama", it hit me. We go back to Utah in FOUR days. FOUR. This summer had flown by! I am having mixed feelings about going back. I am a bit homesick. I miss my stuff, I miss our own space. I miss my Utah friends and family.. I am excited to start my new job. I am worried I will not keep up with working out. I am scared for Carson to start daycare. I am happy my family was able to have so much time with Carson. I am glad we had the chance to make so many memories. The memories are what I will take with me. It is inevitable- we have to go back. I am okay with that. I really can't believe we are done with summer! I just try and fill my head with thoughts of fall...candles, leaves, cool air, halloween decor, ahhhh...!


Ok. I feel better.

All Dressed Up {La Vie Petite Giveaway}

All Dressed Up {La Vie Petite Giveaway}
i want this skirt!

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Work it, girl!

July isn't quite over yet, but I thought I'd update my progress with weight loss!

In June I lost 10 lbs, and so far in July, I have lost 7 already! Woohoo!

I am praying. PRAYING! That I can keep up with the daily workouts when I get back to Utah and back to work! I am not sure if I want to get up earlier, (a struggle) or wait till I get home. (Another struggle, as some days I get home totally exhausted!)

I was happy to learn I lost 7! I went to water aerobics with my grandma (all older ladies in attendance) and afterwards I weighed myself on the doctor-type scale.( Those are more accurate than the 15 year old scale I have been using!) The scale said I had lost 3 more lbs than I had thought, and was the end of the day, AND I was fully dressed with shoes on, and wet hair. So who knows! But I am pretty happy with my progress. Zumba has motivated me to eat better, and if I indulge a bit, I add some more activity! I am just really loving it! I am back to where I was pre-pregnancy. I gained quite a bit from fertility treatments and being on bed rest. Now, I just need to get back to pre-Devin weight! :) 

I am thinking about trying a Zumba dvd ad well to add some variation. I want to try Zumba RIPPED.We will see!

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Oh thank Heaven for Summer 2011!

   Oh thank Heaven! 


That is how I have been feeling this summer! It has been positive in SO many ways.


We have been blessed with time. We are able to be in California and have Carson establish longer than a week relationships with my side of the family. Even though he won't remember, I hope was able to document our trip successfully to share with him later.


On the same topic as relationships, Devin and I have had a great time "reconnecting". It wasn't that we were disconnected, we just didn't have a lot of time for eachother last year. Between work, school, and the addition of Carson, we had only gone on 2 dates. Being here has allowed us to spend more time together in a relaxing situation {for the most part}, and we have been able to appreciate eachother a little more. We have been able to break out of the monotimy and try new tngs. Last night as we were getting ready for bed, we both had the song "Remind Me" By Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood. The song really does not pertain to us, but like anyone with a one year old, we don't have a lot of time for romance! {Shocker!} We spent quite a bit of time reminiscing about when we were dating, first married, and all the excitement that came with it. Last night reminded us of how important it is to keep things fresh! We already have made plans to brake out of habits like dinner and a movie, and try new things together. It sounds so simple, yet has made a difference and brought back the old excitement when everything was new. Even if you have been with someone four, or even fifty years, there is always something new. A new journey, a new adventure to embark on together!


I have also had time for myself, another rarity. I have read so many books! {Like 18!} Worked out daily {it has been years!} Attended all 3 hours of church {nap time for the monkey, and he refuses to fall asleep} And........more time to spend with my family! Not to mention I am rejuvinated for a new school year!


We have to go back to Utah in 2 weeks, and get back to our routines. {New routines, truly.} New job, new school for Devin, and Daycare for Carson. We will power through the changes like we always do!



Thursday, July 21, 2011

impulsiveness.

So. How does one stop being so impulsive? I am impulsive. Besides obnoxious, impulsive is  good word to describe me. Perhaps I am obnoxious because I am impulsive? I'm sure it is related. 


Impulse moves:


Moving to Utah: Worked for me!


Engaged after three weeks. But hey, it works!


Car purchases: So far, so good.


Having a baby: wouldn't change a thing!


(Now here is where I get caught up)


Shopping: I am sooo impulsive. It makes me a bad shopper. When it comes to clothes I NEVER look for deals. I don't care if it might go on sale tomorrow. I want it, and I want it now. So, that makes a problem. I buy similar items. I buy too much of something I already have. For example: How many black cardigans do I have? Ohhh probably a dozen. But they are all different in some minor way! What is the answer!? Make a list? Be better at discerning between needs and wants? HELP! 


My mouth: It is very impulsive. I say yes too much. I say no to the wrong things. When I am frustrated it comes out through my words. My words may be directed at the right people, and I may be telling the truth, but why am I so driven to say certain things when I know nothing good will come of it? I have always sort of felt that it was my job to let people know what they are doing wrong, and to let them know they need to fix it. Be more like me, perhaps. Well, that isn't working. How do I stop? Help!  


I think it is important to recognize our flaws. I recognize mine. I have known them for quite some time. However, I am not sure where to begin bettering myself.


I have turned to Heavenly Father for strength and answers. I guess I am still waiting. Maybe I do have the answer of "STOP!" or "Just knock it off!" but, we all know how well that works! Just ask Carson! ;)

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Just like kids again!

This past week has been so much FUN! We have had quite a few adventures!!


Last week, we went to the Santa Barbara County Fair to see Clint Black. We went with my sister Samantha and her boyfriend, Steven. I ran into quite a few old friends and friends of the family, and enjoyed a great show with my man! We have never been to a concert together, and was so happy to be able to share one of my favorite pastimes with my hubs!  After the show we all headed to the ferris wheel, and for a meager $5 a person, we were able to ride! We got our own "cart" and had  great time. Who doesn't want to kiss the man of their dreams at the top of the world!? (Well, top of Santa Maria) We cruised down Broadway, hit up Taco Bell, and bumped Jason Aldean all the way home!







A few days later, we went to the Santa Barbara Zoo with the fam! It was Melissa's birthday, so we thought that it would be a fun activity for Carson and us "big kids". Carson loves birds, and adored the flamingos! He likes the monkey's a lot, too! The weather was hot and that makes a baby grumpy pants. He was done fairly quickly, so we headed to the Elephant Bar. There, Carson assaulted our waiter with a straw and  menu. He was a good sport. No charges will be pressed. ;)


Now for today, I spent the day with my Grandpa
and Nancy and Carson! Dev went golfing with Danny, but he joined up with us and went to Mi Amore. YUMO. Devins order was wrong so they had to fix it. Pet Peeve Alert!!!!!! I should do a series on pet peeves.


After we got home, here comes the "just like kids". We watched Red Riding Hood, which was uber creepy, FYI. My man and were prancing in the fog out front and decided to bang on the windows to scare Pam and Bobby. They were scared alright. I am quite the giggler so I had to hide in the neighbors bushes momentarily so that my fits of laughter bust us.This charade lasted about thirty minutes of us running, hiding, attacking. Haha! We got busted, but it took me back to high school and college and all the times was forced to stay in the car because I was too loud. My apologies. :)

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Beachy Keene.

Today I am blogging from the lovely, overcast Refugio beach in Santa Barbara. We headed out with Aunt Pam, Jessica, Courtney and Bobby. Devin stayed back to help my dad install wood floors. He is such a nice guy! Nothing says summer quite like diet coke, cheeto puffs, sand, sun, ice cold California ocean water, and a sweet baby soaking it all in for the first time. Hopefully he doesn't eat the sand! :)

Monday, July 11, 2011

Carson's Circus

Carson's 1st birthday was yesterday! We had a party for Carson at Miguelito park in Lompoc. We have a lot of family parties there. When my grandma Masterson pssed away, my Uncle Marty was a park ranger there. We planted a tree there in her honor. The park has special meaning to us, and it was a special occassion! 

We invited our whole family, (over 30 people) and EVERYONE came, minus a few cousins. It was so fun to see everyone! We had a hot dog BBQ, my dad made his famous potato salad, Grandma made  fruit salad, and we had different things like peanuts, Cracker Jacks and popcorn to go with the Circus theme.

I made the decorations out of paint sample cards gathered from Wal Mart and Home Depot.

We ordered the cake from Albertson's, and with it, we got a free 6" cake since it was Carson's first birthday. 

He LOVED the cake! It was so funny how he ate each balloon one by one, then attacked the cake. This kid was all about frosting! He is his Momma's boy!

He had a fun time opening his presents! He got a lot of fun stuff and some clothes, too. He loved taking the paper out of the gift bags and pulling out the loot!

After the party, per Masterson family tradition, he had his very first McDonald's Happy Meal! He loved the fries and had a couple bites of his cheeseburger. After all of that cake, I think he was pretty full! The worst part was, they gave him a Stawberry Shortcake toy! He still liked it. :)


Thankfully my dad was able to come after work. Unfortunately he was not able to get off of work. I forgot to mention he came over in the morning to share a cinnamon roll with him, also a Masterson family tradition!

He went to bed early from being wiped out. All in all it was the best day he will never remember. :)

Thank you so much to my wonderful Masterson and Wood family who made this all possible. Love you!!!

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Dear Baby Carson:

Dear Carson,
Tomorrow you turn one.You have blessed our life for one whole year!Last year at this time mommy was in the hospital waiting for your arrival! Time has gone so fast! You have grown in so many ways! You are so silly! You love to dance. Any time music starts to play, you flap your cute arms and rock back and forth. You love to giggle as well. Auntie Sammye cracks you up when she pretends she is a puppy. You love dogs and enjoy playing with anyones dogs. You love swimming, walks in the stroller, car rides, watching mommy zumba, three hour naps, playing catch with daddy,playing with remote controls (you like to see the channels change), play with car keys, shake pill bottles(they are childproof!) and you love the sound of your voice! You love to sing, yell, scream and talk! You say "mama", "dada", "daddy", "up", "bye" and some other random babbles that have sounded like words! Your grandma really wants you to say "grandma"- we shall see about that! She also wants you to watch Barney but we are trying to prevent that as well :)
The things you do bring smiles to our faces! Our current favorites are peek a boo (you cover your eyes and giggle!) and we especially love your hugs and wet kisses! Now that you are turning one, we probably need to put a stop to your toungue kissed! You lick our faces an bite our noses. We think it is silly, but we can't have that your first day of kindergarten!
We love you more than anything. We couldn't imagine a better life. You are everthing to us, and will always be! One day soon we hope to give you a sibling who we will love just as much! If we could give you any advice, it would be to never doubt yourself. Stay close to the gospel. Trust us, we want the best for you! And, you will never remember the pain you have right now from teething! You have two teeth on the bottom, with your top two right behind! You only got your first tooth a month ago! I guess you're a late bloomer! Anyways, we love you. In closing, here are the lines to your favorite song: Falling in love, is such an easy thing to do. Birds can do it, we can do it, let's stop talking let's get to it- let's fall in love!!
Love,
Mommy & Daddy xoxo


ps- I will add pics once I have a computer again!

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Zumba

I love Zumba! Who doesn't!? Well, I have been doing every day this summer, except for two days when we were at my aunt's.Some dayys I do the 20 minute work outs, some days do the 20 plus some single routines, and when my sweet boy allows, - do a 45 minute routine! I always end with going n a walk.So far, I have lost ten lbs. I feel good about it, it is not too hard, and it is something I can do daily. I have been watching what I eat as well. I have a slim fast and a fruit for breakfast, a yogurt or the breakfast fruit for a snack, a lean cuisine for lunch, and a light dinner, or more salad and some of what everyone else is having. It isn't inconvienient, and it has been pretty rewarding! My goal is to shed 7 lbs a month, and try to keep that pace for the next year. I think it is realistic, and manageable! That's what keeps me motivated best, rather than saying, "I want to lose 75 lbs!" That is a little overwhelming. I will update my progress as a source of accountability. Any suggestioms are welcome! :)


Stats: June: -10 lbs
July: we shall see!

It's no fun not having a computer!

From my blackberry, here is my ipad plea:


I need one! I would be SO productive! and it would increase my self-esteem, because that is what productivity does! I could: (in no particular order)
- do lesson plans wherever am at!
-keep in touch with my family via skype, anytime!


- could keep up with my blog, therefore doing family history, enriching our lives, and our sons! :)
- could find new ways to be inspired!
-have scriptures handy!
- read books!
- and feel really cool.

Monday, July 4, 2011

You've just got to ignite....the light....

Baby you're a firework.
 
How is it possible, that one sweet little boy, who will be ONE YEAR OLD next Sunday, can have so much personality? He truly lights up up our world. (Cue corny music)
And then there is this guy, who I made pose in front of a rose bush, is the one who makes me see fireworks. Love this guy!

Today we are still in Bear Valley Springs. We are going to try and beat the heat- (100 degrees, no A/C!) maybe swim in the kiddie pool, have a good old-fashioned cookout with Aunt Pam, Uncle Pat, Grandma, My great Aunt Dorothy, Mom, Courtney, Bobby and us. It should be fun. Afterwards we will head down into Tehachapi to watch fireworks. Last year on the 4th, We sat in our front yard and watched Stadium of Fire fireworks while Carson kicked the crap out me. Hopefully he will like them this year! We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday, full of good ole' American stuff like hot dogs, fireworks, swimming and family! We know we will!