Domestic Goddess...in Training

Like Mother, Like Daughter?

2009-02-08T23:25:00.008-06:00

I just received this in an e-mail from my Momma:

(click to enlarge)

On the left is my Mom, then myself and of course Punky Butt. She said that the recent pic I posted of Kaitlyn reminded her of that middle pic of me when I was little. I think I see a slight resemblence...maybe? What do y'all think?

To back it up a little bit, when Kaitlyn was born EVERYONE thought she looked like me. She had my jet black hair, my dark eyes, my face shape, my lips, my ears...my everything. But as time passed, she magically lost all my features and sprouted curly blonde hair and green eyes.

Now looking at this, I think she definately retained the nose. Of all things she got my nose.

Poor thing.

Thank you for sending this Momma, it made my heart smile :)

Why it's a Bad Idea...

2009-02-07T09:36:00.005-06:00

to accidentally doze off after a long exhausting week, with an inquisitive 2 year old running around...even if it's just for a few minutes.

This is some sort of toothpaste, bubble bath, shampoo concoction, which as you can see doubles as a mighty fine finger paint.

Lesson learned. Next time I feel the need for rejuvenation, I will take into account what my munchkin is capable of.

New Shoe Obsession

2009-02-05T15:32:00.005-06:00

Up until yesterday, I owned 4 pairs of shoes. One pair of which I wore 95% of the time. I've just never been a shoe person. Kinda like I've never been a purse person, until I realized the excessive amount of crap I stuffed in my pockets made me appear at least 10 lbs heavier. At which point, I just felt obligated to buy a purse.

So anyway. I was just never a shoe person. However, when you run into an opportunity to buy 5 pairs of shoes less than 40 bucks total, I think you have no choice BUT to become a shoe person.

Just wanted to share.

In case anyone is wondering...school is going fantastical. It's a lot of work, but I'm seeing and doing some pretty awesome things where I am doing my clinical rotations. In other random news, Kaitlyn has developed some sort of Jekyl/Hyde complex. She has the ability to go from smothering me with hugs and kisses to throwing a world class tantrum in 1.8 seconds. Gotta love it.

Better Late Than Never

2009-02-03T16:58:00.002-06:00

Well, in my defense I wasn't late in completing the task...just late in blogging about it. So. If you remember back to my 2009 goal list, I said I wanted to read one magazine a month. One that I would normally never pick up. It was between some Consumer Report thinga-ma-bob and this Scientific American Mind...and the Science mag won.

It turned out to be pretty darn interesting actually. To sum it up I learned that:

I can blame biology for my procrastination

Prostitution is legal and regulated in Germany, Greece, The Netherlands, New Zealand and Turkey

There are actually studies going on to determine whether or not computers have feelings...for example do they get upset when we throw them out. (come on, really?)

Children who have chronic ear-aches are more likely to become obese as an adult

Birth control pills affect women's taste in men

Who'd a thunk it?!

"99% Weed Free"

2009-01-31T18:34:00.002-06:00

If you are a Texan, or in the general area, you are very familiar with our grass. It starts turning a sickly shade of brown right around November, and slowly returns to it's natural green sometime around...well honestly I don't know when it goes back to green. Not only does it turn colors, but it takes on a cactus like texture and crunch. Totally not inviting for the barefoot fan such as myself. So, in an attempt to perk up our lawn, we laid a bunch of grass seed down. It's important I mention that the bag proudly proclaimed it was "99% Weed Free".

One bag contains roughly 10,000 seeds. So, you do some math and find out that this amounts to about 100 weeds. I don't know about you, but 100 weeds is exactly 100 more than I would like to own.

4/52 "Water"

2009-01-28T14:58:00.012-06:00

Initially I had an idea for the water theme for week 3 of the 52 project, one that involved a big gorgeous lake nearby and a sunrise...BUT the weather has not been cooperating, and I do not own a winter coat. So. Here is it's replacement.

In case you are having trouble deciphering, this is the passenger side door of my truck this morning around 7:30. In fact, my entire vehicle was an icicle which made for creative entry. I grew up in the Midwest, and at one time was very familiar and educated on said events. However, I have been acclimatized and sadly, I lost all my winter survival skills. It's a good thing we don't have a long enough extension cord or I just may have dragged out my hair dryer.

I knew it wouldn't be long before it was completely melted, so I took advantage of the miniature skating rink I had in my front drive. Can you see the ice? Nearly busted my butt taking the trash out. Now it's nearing 50 and sunny. This weather is ridiculous.

*Yes, I know this is weak sauce compared to what some of you have been going through. Between Cheryl, Doreen and Dalia I think there has been like 178 1/4" of snow. Let me get my cold weather gripe in :) *

Photoshoot!

2009-01-25T20:23:00.003-06:00

I had such a blast today photographing my niece for her belated b'day. She is freakin' insanely gorgeous, enough to make you want to lock yourself in a closet insanely gorgeous. Her BFF came along and she just adds insult to injury. They are just beautiful. I'm still working on them, but have a few up on my photography blog. www.tyoungphotography.blogspot.com

P.S. CS3 and I are once again bonded and I am so in love with my 24-70mm I'm going to take it out to dinner tomorrow.

DUH

2009-01-25T11:02:00.002-06:00

I just had a minor breakthrough with this migraine inducing program (CS3). As much as I'd like to curse the program and throw wet noodles at my monitor in anger, turns out it was just user error.

See the difference?

So what was I doing wrong you ask? Well, I was running the actions on a resized for web picture. Made for a hideous edit.

I have a photoshoot this afternoon with my gorgeous niece, can't wait!

Still Here

2009-01-23T17:08:00.002-06:00

Just a quick shout out. I'm in the middle of devising a brilliant and genius plan that will allow me to both study my brains out and regain some resemblance of normalcy. Still working out the bugs.

Hope everyone has a fantastical weekend!

Tuesday Grumbles

2009-01-20T21:21:00.006-06:00

A few of you asked if I was back in school, and the answer is "Ugh. Yes."

It saddens me that I have to tune out fun and useless information in an attempt to retain less exciting useful information. It was good to see my fellow school peeps today, and at one point there was a slight glimmer of interest for this semester...somewhere between the first break and lunch at Joe's Mexican Cafe. If there is one good thing I can take from the day it is the fact I will be observing an open heart surgery this semester and possibly other procedures. How cool is that?! It's been over 4 years since I've scrubbed in to an O.R. and I am STOKED.

I've come up with a new name for Punky Butt.

"The Faceless Wonder"

It seems to fit the bill lately.

*Sidenote* Are these too sharp on your monitor? I made the switch to CS3 and him and I are not getting along.

-My computer decided today it no longer wanted to read my flash card. It then went on to refuse that entire panel of hard drives. I'm shopping for flash card readers as we speak. How annoying is that?! I took some really fun pictures today too. Bummer.

-I'm realizing now that I was a wee bit over zealous while making my list for 2009. I've learned a few things the last couple of weeks:

~Homeless people make me fear for my health and well-being, and I have no desire to conversate with them. I know it's horrible, but it's just how I feel.

~With my schedule there is no way I can even muster up 2 hours of volunteer time a month. I will, however use my summer vacation to make up for it.

~"Salsa Cardio Mix" does not constitute for Salsa dancing.

I want to apologize in advance for being a mediocre blog friend the next 16 weeks. My schedule is going to be slightly chaotic. Bare with me :)

3/52 "Show us Your Town"

2009-01-19T10:25:00.008-06:00

I realize my last post was a bit lengthy and I lost a few of you somewhere in the first paragraph. Those who stuck it out are now enjoying last nights winning lottery numbers.

Kidding.

I decided to get a jump start on this weeks 52 Theme, "Show us your town". Just some shots around the Capitol area.

I have roughly 8 million more downtown shots, but not quite that many minutes to work on them. These were at the very end of the series rendering them first up for editing. The others I'm sure will catch dust before I see them again.

Off to submerge myself in exciting nursing text.

2/52 "What Defines Me"

2009-01-16T13:53:00.021-06:00

Well, I know I wasn't the only one struggling with this weeks photography theme. I'm not sure anyone can be defined in the contents of just one photograph. In fact, I'm pretty sure it's impossible.

I imagined if I were to die tomorrow, what would they say?

There would probably be mention of my passion with art. How I could spend hours with a paintbrush and that the smell of a fresh blank canvas was enough to make me numb with bliss.

That I had the ability to hear a song, and if given a few minutes in front of the piano could reproduce the very same melody...give or take a few notes. Or how I would play the guitar for hours on end until I was just sure my fingertips would spontaneously bleed or out-right fall off.

They would surely mention my new found obsession with photography, and how I no longer viewed the world through my own eyes but that of a viewfinder.

More then a few from the audience would recall how I loved to experiment with desserts and that I could whip up something tasty with shoe polish and pickles, if they were my only options.

Then the speaker would shift to things of greater importance. They would try, but surely come up short to find the words to describe the love I possessed for my daughter, only to do the same when it came to my husband. But as passionately as I loved, I was equally as stubborn. It would take an armada of persuasion to convince me to believe otherwise. And even then, your chances were slim.

I'm not anticipating an untimely death, nor am I anxiously awaiting a eulogy. Quite possibly you are wondering where on Earth I'm going with this. My point is, I can't narrow down what defines me into one photograph. So I decided to go a different direction with this theme. I focused more on a defining moment. A time in my life when everything just kinda came together. When it all started to make sense.

I joined the Army when I was 17. More specifically, 4 days after my 17th birthday. I wanted a challenge, and a challenge I got. I was stripped of my identity, then built back up. I was pushed harder than I had ever been pushed before. I learned to look defeat in the eye and not falter, but dig a little bit deeper and endure.

And that was just during my 3 months in Boot Camp.

I loved the challenge so much I went on Active duty from 2002-2005. My job title was 91W, a Combat Medic. Most of my time was spent in the Emergency Department. In total, I dedicated 6 years of my life to the military. And in that time I learned many, MANY things.

1) We are NOT invincible. No matter how much we would like to think we are.

2) Life can not be gauged by fairness. No matter how unfair it is, all the CPR and defibrillators in the world can't bring back the life of a 3 month old who was left to drowned in a bathtub, or a 5 year old girl whose parents tried to fake her death by hanging her with the cord from a window blind.

3) You don't have to back-stab and step on people to get to where you want to be, despite the growing trend. Sometimes a little good ole fashion determination does the trick.

4) Age is just a number. Don't EVER feel restricted by it.

5) If you don't ask, the answer is always no. And sometimes you need to ask more than a few times.

6) Don't EVER let somebody tell you that you have limits.

"The brick walls are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. Because the brick walls are there to stop the people who don’t want it badly enough."
- Randy Pausch

7) Sometimes people are put in our lives for a reason. Whether you believe it by chance or by fate, accept that this is so. Learn from them. Grow from them. Appreciate them.

I could go on and on about my times in the Army and what I took from it, but I won't. In fact, if you've made it this far I'm impressed. I'm not a fan of lengthy writing, even I get bored.

If anything, I'm doing this for myself. I think we all lose sight of who we are from time to time. Nothing wrong with a little reflection.

And a Bonus

2009-01-14T20:37:00.006-06:00

I have been tagged in another blog, and am now obligated to fill out this survey or angry men on pogo sticks will come and kidnap me in my sleep.

1. What is your favorite thing to do on a snow day? HA Snow? I've heard of it.
2. What color are your socks right now? No socks, wearing my sock monkey slippers
3. What are you listening to right now? The Killers "When you were young"
4. What was the last thing that you ate? A handful of teddy grahams
5. Can you drive a stick shift? Yes, but don't make me stop on a hill
7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? My Momma
8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Is she watching? LOL kidding. Yes, she's sweet :)
9. How old are you today? Half-way to 50
10. Favorite drink? Currently Diet Coke Plus
11. What is your favorite sport? To watch? FOOTBALL all the way
12. Have you ever dyed your hair? Practically every month
13. Pets? 2 Wieners

14. Favorite food? Hmmmmm tough. Something cheesy
15. Last movie you watched? Dark Knight
16. Favorite day of the year? Any day I have the chance to see family
17. What do you do to vent your anger? Work out...or eat.
18. What was your favorite toy as a child? Probably Legos
19. What is your favorite, summer, fall, winter or spring? Fall, definately fall

20. In what outfit do you feel the most like yourself? long john shirt with a random t-shirt over it, my fav jeans and my grubby bus boy cap

21. Cherry or Blueberry? No thanks. I'll take a strawberry though
22. Kittens or Puppies? Puppies
23. Choir, Band, or other? Band
24. Facebook or Myspace? I'm starting to lean more towards facebook
25. Sleeping arrangements? Somewhere sandwhiched between hubby and my two dogs
26. Where you'd most like to visit? Somewhere exotic and warm
28. Favorite Youtube video? Hmmmm, been watching Sideways by Citizen Cope a lot lately
29. Favorite smell? LEMON WET NAPS
30. Least favorite sound? Styrofoam EWWWWWWWW
31. What inspires you? My daughter

32. What are your irrational fears? Planes falling out of the sky
33. Regular hamburger, cheese or spicy hamburger? Cheese Please
34. Favorite class ever? Hands down Microbiology
35. Number of keys on your key ring? 3
36. Favorite type of shoe? flops
37. Favorite day of the week? Saturday
38. What do you hate? Hates a pretty strong word
39. Do you like your handwriting? NO
40. What is your favorite lunch meat? Fried turkey
41. Do you have kids? Yeppers
42 If you were another person would you be friends with you? We would probably butt heads a lot
43. Do you use sarcasm a lot? oh yeah
44. Do you still have your tonsils? Had them suckers taken out a long time ago
45. Would you bungee jump? definately
46. What is your favorite cereal? Lucky Charms
47. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? nope
48. Do you think you are strong? Heck ya, look out!
49. What is your favorite ice cream? Oatmeal Cookie by B&J

50. What is the first thing you notice about people? Eyes
51. Red or pink? Red52. What is your least favorite thing about you? Sure wish my heart would behave more
53. What color pants and shoes are you wearing? Sock monkeys and grey sweats
55. Do you exercise? yes

57. Eye color? Honey
56. Do you wear contacts? nope
59. Scary movies or happy endings? Happy Endings
60. Favorite interjection? oh my?
61. Favorite dessert? Frosting. From a tub. On a spoon.

62. What book are you reading now? Soon it will be something nursing related
63. What is on your mouse pad? I hate mouse pads they are restrictive
64. What did you watch on TV last night? Can't say I watched any tv yesterday
65. Why did you complete this survey? oh what the heck

Once Upon a Time...

2009-01-14T18:13:00.005-06:00

There lived a 2 year old girl who loved and adored getting her picture taken. Everytime a camera came out, she would do her best to strike a pose and be center stage. Ahhhhh the pictures her Mom would take with such cooperation.

NOT.

None of that is goin' on in this here household. I bought girly a Valentine's outfit in hopes of getting a few shots. I haven't even attempted to take a picture of her for almost 3 weeks, thinking this would give her a cooling off period. Wrong, wrong, wrong.

Thanks to Daddy, who kept her somewhat entertained for all of 2 minutes and 13 seconds. These were purely for memories, just thought I would share.

I realize now this was her telling me I had one shot to get a decent shot in before the shenanigans began:

For anyone who is curious...these were taken with my speedlite at like...1/4 of a second SS. There was no ambient light and as a result horrible motion blur.

I haven't tried out my new lens yet. I am hoping to do a photoshoot with my niece this weekend and get acquainted with it.

And to Becky...No I haven't tried out CS3 yet. Thanks to you I have nightmares of CS3 armies taunting me with pitchforks and hockey sticks. 14 days until my trial PSP2 program expires...I think that sounds like a good day to learn.

Say Hello to my Little Friend

2009-01-13T19:39:00.005-06:00

More like, my Hefty Awkward Monster! Geez, this thing is going to help me tone up my arms that's for sure. I feel like I'm insulting her when I attach it to my crusty Rebel. Poor thing needs some TLC from the nice folks at Canon. Something about sea spray and grubby munchkin hands on the sensor. It looks like somebody sneezed in there.

A New Pastime

2009-01-12T14:33:00.005-06:00

As if I needed another one right now. I start school in 6 days and I'm totally in crunch time to prepare...and I find something totally non-nursing related to become obsessed with.

This is my first attempt with photomanipulation:

I never even knew something like this was possible. I just happened to stumble upon a website, which lead to another, which lead to a blog, which lead to a tutorial...and on and on and on. I'm not even sure where I ended up, I just know this whole concept really fascinates me.

Somebody PLEASE stop me before I self-destruct.

Payback

2009-01-11T19:56:00.007-06:00

And by payback, I mean what's going to be inflicted upon me after my husband realizes I posted this. That dashing young man in the white suit is my Prince Charming on his prom night.

Let us pause in appreciation of the advances in both fashion and hairstyle.
.
.
.
Wow

Linda & Larry, (hubbies parents) I'm sure you are looking at this in fond admiration of your sweet boy and his lovely locks. I posted this for you. I know you are proud beyond words for all 4 of the boys you raised, but I'd like to extend my thanks to you for one in particular.

I couldn't be happier that he chose me to share his life with, and as a bonus receive a wonderful second family. A Mother in law who can keep up with my relentless gabbing on the phone and a Father in law who harrasses me to no end. (Yes, I'm taking my medicine thank you.) :)

I am truly blessed.

82

2009-01-09T19:59:00.005-06:00

Degrees that is. It was a gorgeous day.

Those of you who just battled an ice storm, my apologies. :)

Future Rockstar

2009-01-08T19:59:00.001-06:00

International Dish #1

2009-01-07T18:01:00.006-06:00

Taste of the Carribean

I give this one a 2.5 out of 5. The sweetness of the pineapple went really nice with the spice of the pepper, but I wish there was more bulk to the relish. Maybe a glaze of some sorts? Still, it was a nice light zingy dish. We got to use the bottle of Rum that we purchased in Jamaica, so that made for a nice flashback.

Speaking of flashback...Lets dig up some 6 month prego Jamaica vacation pics...

Sunscreen anyone?

Okay, flashback over. Back to the recipe.

Pork Loin Chops with Pineapple and Serrano Pepper Relish

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups chopped fresh pineapple
1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh serrano chile, including seeds
1 teaspoon chopped thyme
1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
1 teaspoon coriander seeds
2 (1-inch-thick) boneless pork loin chops
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons dark rum

Preparation:
Toss together pineapple, onion, chile, thyme, vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Grind coriander seeds in an electric coffee/spice grinder (or crush with flat side of a knife). Pat pork dry; sprinkle all over with coriander, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Heat oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then sauté pork, turning once, until well browned and just cooked through but still juicy, 6 to 10 minutes.

Transfer pork to plates. Add pineapple mixture and rum to skillet and sauté, scraping up brown bits, 1 minute. Serve pork with relish.

Congrats to...

2009-01-06T17:05:00.002-06:00

Kristie! You are the winner!

Out of 23 entrants, #4 was chosen by the random number generator. I sooooo wish I had the means to send goodies out to all my blog friends, thank you to those who participated. I'll be in touch with you Kristie :)

Leslie, the Infamous Austin Cross-Dresser

2009-01-05T17:15:00.005-06:00

If you are from around here, you know what I'm talking about. For those of you who don't, there's even a Wikipedia page for you to get your edu-ma-cation on.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leslie_Cochran

I ventured downtown today in hopes of getting some decent city shots. Not only did I get some shots, I had the opportunity to meet Leslie and exchange some fashion tips.

It's may have been too cold for a leopard thong and heels, but he still made it a point to show off his best asset.

If anyone is interested in seeing some of my shots from a local Cigar shop, follow this link:

http://piecesofaustin.blogspot.com/

In other news...lurkers still lurking, this is your last opportunity to enter the give-away! Winner will be announced tomorrow!

Terri Meets Texture

2009-01-03T16:57:00.000-06:00

I've been totally texture happy the last couple of days. It started with a nagging boredom of paintshop which rapidly progressed to being able to process a pic without putting forth any effort or thought. So I decided to mix it up a bit.

Yesterday I set out on a little adventure to a historical area in town. My goal was to find different objects around town and capture them in different ways. I played with aperature. I worked different angles. I laid in and played in puddles. I had a fantastical time.

Here are just a couple of the images. The rest will be posted on my photography blog.

1/52 Off the Beaten Path

2009-01-02T20:47:00.000-06:00

Thanks to an awesome chick who goes by the name of Ashley, I've been invited to take part in a 52 week photography project. Along with several other partners in crime whom I've grown to know and love over the past 3 years, I will be refering to a list of 52 themes for my inspiration. If anyone wants to join in on the journey, you can find the list of themes in my blog role entitled "Chat This Picture of the Week."

This weeks theme was "Free For All"

I was driving home today and saw what I thought was a fire hydrant in the middle of an enormous field. I figured I was seeing things and kept driving. I made it about a block or two before my curiousity demanded that I turn around.

It was a nice little hike and I thought at least a dozen times I was going to encounter some sort of critter who would eagerly gnaw off my flip-flopped feet.

Sure enough, in the middle of this field there was a fire hydrant. Not sure what it's there for and I really don't care, it was placed in an imperfectly perfect spot.
It looks waaaaaaaaay cooler over on my photography blog, seen in it's entirety if ya wanna take a gander:

www.tyoungphotography.blogspot.com

My List For 2009

2009-01-01T18:41:00.000-06:00

*disclaimer* not my image :)

So I've never been one to make resolutions. Directly translated, resolution is to make a firm determination. I am not one to be firmly determined about anything, therefore I set goals. I've done this for a few years now, in an attempt to become a more well-rounded versatile human being. It took me a while to compile this years list. I had to be careful. Factoring in school and my job as Mommy and Wife, I'm stretched pretty darn thin as it is. That being said I still wanted to challenge myself, be realistic and above all have fun!

I present to you, my list.

1) Learn how to tie 20 different knots, and know what situations call for which knots

2) Learn how to shoot a bow and arrow

3) Volunteer 2 hours of my time every month to a different organization

4) Learn how to dance the salsa

5) Take a course in American Sign Language

6) Learn the story of 5 homeless people in an attempt to not be so disgusted everytime I encounter one

7) Read a different magazine every month, front to back...one that I would typically never think to pick up

8) Attend a photography course

9) Learn a new word every day, and how to properly use it in a sentence. (Made easy thanks to dictionary.com)

wanderlust \WON-der-luhst\, noun:
a strong desire to wander or travel

10) Learn to juggle 3 balls

11) Learn how to make 10 International food dishes

12) Learn 10 things involving vehicle or home repair

And a bonus for the hubby...take some golf lessons and buy a set of clubs :)

Wishing Everyone...

2008-12-31T17:20:00.000-06:00

"May your troubles last as long as your New Year's resolutions."

Can You Spot the Imposter?

2008-12-30T19:39:00.000-06:00

I've been doing head-swapping and cloning like nobodies business! Is it terribly obvious who has been erased in?

Tuesday Randomeness...and a GIVEAWAY!!!

2008-12-30T10:50:00.001-06:00

So we finally completed the process of wiping our poor computer clean. I'm convinced it was suffering from something far more powerful than the bubonic plague. About 30 hours, a dozen disks and 100 restarts, we have a fully functioning computer.

As much as I was looking forward to this break from school, I am already counting down the 21 days until we start back up. I've been going to school for so long, I think I've become institutionalized. I feel all out of place when I'm not going.

So I was looking at my blog statistics over on Google and last night I hit my 10,000th blog hit. I'm both thrilled and bummed by this achievement. I have visitors and even regulars from as far away as the Czech Republic and Greece, almost 500 visits from Germany...and yet the same 10 people comment. Granted they are 10 wonderful marvelous spectacultar peeps, but I'd really like for some of the others to come out of hiding. So in order to coax y'all out of hiding, I'm going to tempt you with prizes :)

I've got a bag full of all sorts of fun goodies, and I promise I will make it worth your time for responding. It is totally gender neutral, so don't shy away if your a guy. A winner will be chosen at random thanks to random.org

All you need to do is answer this question:

"My New Years Resolution is..."

What are you aspiring to accomplish, achieve or attain in 2009?

You have until January 6th 2009 at 5 p.m. Central time. Winner will be posted that evening. Good luck, and can't wait to see your posts!

Finally, a Family Pic

2008-12-28T15:55:00.000-06:00

And it took amazing effort let me tell you. Turns out if I whack my head repeatedly with a sharp stick, Kaitlyn will laugh a good bit and occasionally look at the camera. This is nice, because I was running out of random ridiculous noises and phrases to say in order to get her to look my direction.

If you look closely, you can see my stick :) For those of you who don't know, hubby has a 10 year old daughter. She is the best big sister in the world, and we were so happy to have her for the holidays.

And hubby and I took a few shots while the kids were running around. I processed these a lil' different then usual, there was a nice patch of light shining through the balcony.

(To see the full version of this, please go to my photography blog: www.tyoungphotography.blogspot.com )

Here is a shot I did this morning on my new floor set-up. Still have no idea what I'm doing with the speedlite. If anyone has any advice, please feel free to dish :)

Well that's plenty of pictures for now. Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Studio Take 2

2008-12-27T20:41:00.000-06:00

Check this out! I found 22 square feet of wood laminate for just 26 dollars! I will post a pic tomorrow using this new set-up. :)

My New Studio!

2008-12-27T10:38:00.001-06:00

I am soooooo excited hubby actually let me do this. I was totally okay with settin' up shop in the garage. It was his idea actually to take the extra bedroom. These are just quick snaps...

That's my art on the wall. :)

Just the bare bones of it. I plan on sprucing it up in the future, I just fixed it up with stuff I had around the house. I plan on displaying a ton of photography and art on both the walls as well as the shelving unit. The light is pretty decent considering there is just the one window. But now that I have the speedlite it shouldn't be a problem.

Here is a super quick snap of the girly. She HATES getting her picture taken, it's a miracle I was able to get this.

This was taken with my Tamron 17-50 f2.8, ISO 200 SS 1/20 with my speedlite bounced off of a 24X30 piece of white framed canvas that I hadn't yet painted on. The room is actually deep enough for me to comfortably use my nifty fifty...once it gets back from the doctor.

I'm SUPER excited and I really hope that this summer I can do some paid sessions.

Trojans, Worms and Speedlites

2008-12-25T21:55:00.000-06:00

How's that for a title. :)

Hope everyone had a wonderful and safe Christmas! Our computer is TOTALLY on the fritz. We ran a scan last night and removed over 90 Trojans and 2 worms. Still in the process of getting it functional.

Here's just a quick snap of my girly this morning. It was taken with my new toy, a Canon 580 Speedlite! I have much too learn but considering the fact this room was extremely dark I'm pretty stoked. It was perfect for all our holiday snapshots.

Looking forward to hearing about everyone's Christmas!

Frostbite

2008-12-23T13:41:00.001-06:00

Well not officially, but I swear if it gets any colder I will soon be a victim. My feet have been in a state of numb for the last couple of days, no joke. I broke down last night and bought some super cozy, super cute sock monkey booties. Ashley, I know of your obsession with sock monkies...please don't mug me in a dark alley for buying these. :)

My New Face

2008-12-20T12:34:00.000-06:00

I'm finally getting around to uploading my before, during and after shots of my face. I mentioned a few months ago that I had a Vitalize chemical peel done. It was done on the 16th of October. I was pretty happy with the results. That was until I started using the Obagi Nuderm products. I started the system on the 19th of November. So it's been exactly a month. I have to say, I couldn't be happier with how it's all turned out.

Here's the before. I am extremely embarassed to post a pic of me with no makeup, but to see the full effects it's important.

October 15th, the day before my peel:

Ladies and Gentlemen, THIS is why you wear sunscreen.

3 days after the peel. I started peeling like crazy, and stopped taking pictures because it was so disgusting. You can see some of the sun damage lightened immediately after the peel:

Today, December 20th. NO makeup, NO touchups. All I did was sharpened the photo for web.
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Sun damage is practically non-existant. My fine lines that I was developing on my forehead have softened. My skin tone is even and my complexion is improved. I am SOOOOOOOO stoked! So if y'all are looking for something to freshen up your skin I totally recommend having a Vitalize Peel. But to get max effects, you need to pair it up with the Obagi NuDerm System. I promise it's worth every penny.

I felt compelled to come back and add a pic with makeup. There's just something grotesque about me and no eye make-up. ;)

Happy Weekend everyone!

Habits

2008-12-19T18:28:00.000-06:00

So I'm feeling comfortable enough in my skin to admit to you today that I am not perfect. Pretty far from it actually.

There's a shocker.

If someone were to ask me, "What is your worst habit?", it would take me no time at all to fire back...

"I procrastinate".

I have to be one of the worst procrastinators I know. You take any task no matter it big or small, and I will find or have already found a way to delay it to the last second humanly possible. I always say that I perform better under pressure, which I believe has come to be the procrastinator's motto. A way of making a nasty habit sound efficient.

So your probably wondering what the heck this has to do with a stockpile of hair products right?

Well, if you were to ask my Hubby what my worst habit is, I'm sure he would triumphantly declare with a scoff and roll of the eye that I have an inability to utilize an entire bottle of Shampoo or Conditioner. It's always the same. I get about half way through a bottle and decide my hair has become immune to "Super Shine" or "Boldly Brunette" or whatever the flavor of the week is, and the bottle heads to the back of the bus. Or the back of the tub I suppose would be more accurate. I am aware this annoys the husband to no end, but it's me. What can I say, I like variety. I'm just not ready to make the leap and commit to a hair product.

So what would you say your worst habit is? And if your spouse was asked the same, how would they reply?

Mr. Postman...

2008-12-18T18:37:00.000-06:00

came bearing gifts!

Here are the highly anticipated note cards from the talented Michaela! It's so nice to get something fun amidst all the bills and advertisements.

These were even more gorgeous in person. Thanks again Michaela!

And by the way, Girly made good use of the tissue paper, putting her origami skills to use.

My New Find

2008-12-17T12:51:00.000-06:00

As if Coldstone itself weren't evil enough, they decide to package up their waist-expanding goodness into a convenient evil little package.

I picked up the Peanut Butter Confection, and in doing so passed up the infamous Strawberry Blonde. I now realize I should have just saved myself the time and energy and just grabbed both. Now I have to make another trip out into the freeeeezing cold.

Glimpse

2008-12-14T19:36:00.000-06:00

You know that point when you look at your child and realize they are no longer that tiny fragile thing anymore? When their baby-like features are replaced by more grown-up ones, and you can look them in the eyes and get a glimpse of what their future may hold?

I had that today.

No matter how badly I want to sweep her up and protect her from all that is cruel and unjust in this world, I know I am powerless to the passing of time. There will come a day when she will talk back to me. She will shut me out of her room and exclude me from her life because her friends are way more important. She will have her heart broken by what is sure to be her one and only true love, only to have it be broken by the next one and only true love. And my heart will break too, right along with hers. Despite my best efforts to explain to her this pain will pass, and that it's not the end of the world and she will go on, she will continue to believe there is no pain like the pain she is feeling right then. Regardless of the countless times I tell her "You'll understand when you have kids of your own", she won't. Until she does have kids of her own.

Just as my Mom once did for me. And maybe one day she will look back on it all, and it will sting more than she can imagine, and want to take it all back. Just as I do today.

I love you Punky Butt. No matter how many times you break my heart, shut the door, or come home late.

Saturday Ramblings

2008-12-13T09:37:00.000-06:00

So I was surfin' the web last night and came across a tutorial on how to get great Christmas tree photos! If you look on my blog list for "caught on film" you can see the tutorial and admire her much better version of it.

It involves an obnoxiously long exposure time, so unless you have an extremely steady hand I suggest a tripod. I set my app. to 22 and had about a 25 second long shutter speed. Look how twinkly the lights are!

Make sure everything in your picture is motionless or else you will get crazy motion blur. One of my dogs meandered across my scene twice before I decided to hold him captive for the time being. I think I may give this technique a try tonight with some of the neighborhood lights.

*****

I have been searching for some old school jammies, you know the ones with the feet attached...possibly even a butt flap? Well I came across these at Target.

How I wish I had a pair of these. If only a certain someone would go to the women's section behind fitness and across from maternity on the third rack on the right size medium and pick up a pair. Oh if only. And if your feeling froggy you can order me that snazzy 24-70mm we've been talking about.

See hubby, don't the jammies seem like less of a headache now?

*****

You know how the other day I did that little photo shoot with girly and the bowl of marshmallows? Well...in doing so I came up with what I would like to think is a fabulous idea. Most nights I like to have a mug of hot cocoa right before bed. It's Mother Nature's Ambien if you ask me. Well...I normally make up the hot cocoa, add a splash of vanilla (or vanilla vodka, depending on the day), a sprinkle of cinnamon and at least 9 thousand marshmallows.

So yesterday when I was strategically putting all of the giant strawberry marshmallows, it dawned on me...how SCRUMPTIOUS would it be to top my cocoa with some of these bad boys!?

I can't capture hot cocoa the way Amy can...but I had to share my discovery. It's a liquefied chocolate covered strawberry dream. Yum.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Parenting Tip #3

2008-12-12T10:41:00.000-06:00

Start every morning with a nutritious breakfast.

Mercy

2008-12-11T15:03:00.000-06:00

Anyone care to join me in a celebratory Woooooooooooooooooooohoo!!!

Not even 4 months ago it would cost us $42.00 to fill up our CHEAP vehicle. I won't even delve into how much we spent on the guzzle-mobile. Yesterday, I got a full tank of gas for just...

drumroll please....

$16.00

So now groceries should follow suit right? I mean if it's less to ship it, our food should cost less? Okay, now I'm just getting carried away.

How much is gas in your neck of the woods?

Say it Ain't Snow!

2008-12-10T12:43:00.000-06:00

It's an exciting day here in Austin Texas! Last night around 11 it began SNOWING of all things. Keep in mind we had a record high of 81 no more than a week ago. It may have been a measly centimeter or so, but it was still snow!

My truck even wore the pitiful precipitation proudly.

In the academia world...I AM OFFICIALLY DONE with this semester!!! Now to ponder what I will do with myself the next 5 weeks. One thing is for sure, I will have to hide my bank cards and other monetary units. I've been known to cure boredom with retail therapy.

And in other news, I am the PROUD WINNER of a snazzy set of note cards by the ever so talented Michaela B! I'm a fan of her blog and photography, and have to say this is the first time I have ever won a contest so I am super stoked! Go check out her handy work here:

http://mysite.verizon.net/restehve/portraitsofnature/

And check this out, it's the picture announcing my big win :)

I made the front page!

Ahhhhhhh I feel like a celebrity. :)

Finally Some Alone Time

2008-12-08T18:00:00.000-06:00

This is the first time in over 2 years that Hubby and I went and did something, just the two of us. We haven't had the opportunity since she started going to daycare to get out, because our schedules are just too ridiculous. We took a stroll around the downtown historic area and took some pics, followed up with some lunch.

I couldn't be serious to save my life...

Cropped...

This next shot inspired by the amazing Desiree Hayes. I hope to one day rock half as much as her. Go check her out! http://www.desireehayesphotography.com/blog/

This blog tends to cut edges off my pics, if your interested in seeing these the full version check out my photography blog :)

http://www.tyoungphotography.blogspot.com

Parenting Tip #2

2008-12-06T13:06:00.001-06:00

Despite all effort, expect casualties.

Parenting Tip #1

2008-12-05T18:32:00.000-06:00

When things get difficult, practice the art of restraint.

Countdown...

2008-12-04T17:36:00.000-06:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am pleased to announce I have just SIX MORE DAYS until I can say this semster is in the past. I am beyond excited. Tomorrow we have a test, a big test. Then Wednesday we have a bigger test.

The End.

Then I will enjoy a blissful 5 weeks of non-school-like activity.

But until then I am studying. Blah.

I'd like to share an illustration with you now. Please be advised, it may contain some Rated R content.

Nothing like a fecal disempaction to liven up your day. I'm going to love my job.

Have I introduced to you my new friend?

I had my first Coke...EVER yesterday. It is magical. I had this year long infatuation with Dr. Pepper...but decided to shake things up. Besides, this is Diet Coke PLUS. Packed with vitamins and minerals. I'm sure someone could fortify lard with nutrients and I would be convinced it was healthy.

Fitness Ultimatum Vs. Ding Dong

2008-12-03T16:38:00.000-06:00

There comes a time in our life when we must make a decision. Today, I was faced with the following:

A) Trying out the new Fitness Ultimatum and burning some calories

-OR-

B) Savoring every sweet sweet morsel of this 170 calorie laden genuine Ding Dong

I chose C...savor the Ding Dong while contemplating sweat and lactic acid.

All joking aside...if you have a Wii, and you want to subject yourself to sheer ridicule I suggest you purchase this game. I made it 15 minutes...on Easy. I wish there were more exercises, but for now this is sure to break up my fitness funk.

'Tis the Season

2008-11-30T19:07:00.000-06:00

I LOVE Thanksgiving purely for the fact that the next day, we put up the Christmas tree. I find myself looking over at it at least a couple dozen times through out the day. For one, it is just too darn purty not to look at. And for two, the fact that my daughter has found great joy in dismembering it.

I have found Christmas bulbs in all sorts of random spots in the house...to include in her potty chair.

Ewwww.

I attempted the self-portrait-in-a-glass-bulb thing.

Ehhhhhh. Something about the fun-house mirror effect that doesn't suit me and my borderline grotesque nose very well. I made sure to cover it up with my not so grotesque camera.

10 more school days left til semester break...

Thanksgiving...a Little Early

2008-11-23T19:54:00.000-06:00

Our family and 8 additional Young's decided to engage in a gluttonous Pre-Thanksgiving Thanksgiving. As IF the cumulative calories of one isn't enough. That's just how we roll.

This poor bird didn't even have a chance.

When 2 nurses live under the same roof, they find any excuse to stick something with a needle. In this case, a very large needle filled with artery clogging goodness.

While everything was cooking the big kids enjoyed some tasty beverages. Well, girly decided she wanted to be a big kid too.

Settle down people, it's only apple juice. She got a kick out of it and went around toasting everyone. I have no idea where she picked this habit up at. They must be boozing it up at daycare.

No wonder they get her to nap.

So we stuffed ourselves. And repeated to do so over the course of 5 or so hours. We of course then followed it up with a semi-conscious movie sprawled out on our humongous couch. It was nice.

I also had the pleasure of doing a photoshoot for the gorgeous Miss E. and her lovely daughter. Here is one of my favs. Look at their hair! So jealous.

If you want to see a boat load more, check out my other site:

tyoungphotography.blogspot.com

Flash Back of Summer

2008-11-17T22:54:00.000-06:00

So I think we are finally leaving behind the Summer weather. As I write this, it is 46 degrees out. People, in Texas that is frigid. I've been moaning and groaning about how I couldn't wait for it to cool off, and now I find myself makin' a quick run to the car in the morning...and also forcing my dogs to walk them selves out back. And of course they are Texas dogs, so they just sit there and scratch at the door frantically.

I think by far my highlight of the summer was when my sister Kayla and her family came to visit from Iowa. We took a trip down to Mustang Island and rented a beautiful beach front condo. Despite the dragon sized assassin mosquitos (we went shortly after a hurricane) we had a blast. Here I am almost 5 months later finally going through the pictures. I have oogles more to go through, but I pulled up a few of my favs.

Things That Make Ya Go Hmmmmmmmm

2008-11-15T19:09:00.000-06:00

Once again, I have fallen off the blogging planet. I'm not even sure anyone is following this anymore. Regardless, I will trudge on.

I was clearing out my flash cards just a minute ago, and came across all sorts of entertaining images. I think sometimes the candid snapshots can be far more interesting than the well planned photograph.

This is my sister Kayla. No, that is not a shower cap. It is...a diaper. Clean of course. I love you...please don't hate me for posting this. :)

Here...now we're even. What the HECK was I thinking?!

Unfortunately, my gene has been passed on.

And why is it that every toddler has this insatiable urge to stick everything in their nose?

Amber and Megan...gotta love them.

This one is just for fun. Check out the fog we had one morning!

And I will probably rot in hell for this next one...but I couldn't resist. Can you imagine the first door you go to on your first Halloween, and you encounter this?!

And for the record...that was a WOMAN.

Off to go ask for forgiveness...

Bubbles!

2008-11-02T09:57:00.000-06:00

I am just in total shock with how fast this kid is growing up. I was going through some digital files last night and came across some of my old favs.

She was such a butterball! I thought she was going to be bald forever, just like her Momma. But she proved me wrong, and sprouted some lovely curls.

I realize this has nothing to do with bubbles...but I just wanted to share. It's amazing how time flies.

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-01T12:42:00.000-05:00

Once again, I have fallen off the blogging planet. Life is crazy, chaotic and a wee bit overwhelming right now. In less depressing news, we took girly Trick-O-Treating for the first time last night! It was loads of fun. She got the hang of it after awhile. Instead of the traditional line to get candy, she found "Here ya go" to be more effective as she reached her bucket out towards them. But, she still remembered her manners and thanked them emphatically. Here's some pictures of our night. To view more you can go to:

tyoungphotography.blogspot.com

For The Love of the Game

2008-10-19T12:31:00.000-05:00

One of my absolute favorite things about this time of year is football. I am a HUGE NFL fan, and spend my entire Sunday watching the games. I don't have a particular team, I just love a good action packed game. I had the opportunity Thursday evening to watch my nephew play some highschool ball. I went bold and actually went down on the sidelines to take some shots. Of course my camera couldn't compete with the flurry of L lenses on the field, but whatever. I still enjoyed myself. Here are a few from the game.

Sweetberry Farms

2008-10-17T19:07:00.000-05:00

Wow.

Where the heck have I been hiding?! I've been lost somewhere between insanity and chaos the last couple of weeks. Just this week I finished a semester of nursing school, started my daughter in daycare, and get this...

Drumroll please...

I went and had a chemical acid peel done on my face. Let's just say my face has an oh so shiny syran wrap look to it. Yes...I will share this with you. Just give me time to realize this is only temporary, and I will only shed like a snake for 7-10 days. When the fresh face beneath this catastrophe emerges, I will be sure and share.

So anyway, we took a trip out to the beautiful Marble Falls Texas. There is a nice lil pumpkin patch called Sweetberry Farms. Here are some of the pics:

This cracks me up. For about 20 minutes she would pick the pumpkins up off the ground, transfer them to a bail of hay...and then turn around and put them back on the ground.

Here she is realizing this was an infinite mindless task:

That's all for now. Just wanted to say I miss my little blogging community, and hope to be posting more often. Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Birthday Punky Butt

2008-10-07T16:51:00.001-05:00

The day has already come and gone, despite my desperate attempts to hault or simply just slow time. Holidays and birthdays are always so depressing around here. To me, these days are not about presents and gorging yourself with cake. It's about being around the ones you love and care for the most. And when the ones you love are miles and miles away, your left with an emptiness. She's too young to understand the meaning of all this, but it sure does tear my heart in two. Here are a few pictures of our small gathering...

Of course our extended family did make it...

And by extended, I mean the Easter Bunny and a parade of Yo Gabba Gabba friends.

Daddy had been teaching her how to blow out a candle...

And she blows it out like a lil' champ.

Of course we had to let her blow the candle out another 6 times before she was satisfied.

I love you. And years from now when we celebrate your 16th, your 21st, your 47th birthday, you will always be my little Punky Butt.

Denial

2008-09-28T13:42:00.000-05:00

I am in total shock that my little baby girl will soon be celebrating her 2nd year of life. I have until the 6th to officially refuse and deny it. I plan on doing pics on the actual day of, but these were some fun shots we did with some balloons and flowers while the sun was setting behind us.

The time lapse on these was about 7 minutes. She was by far more interested in throwing rocks and diggin in the dirt with sticks. That's my girl. :)

K.J. Binkens

2008-09-26T18:35:00.001-05:00

I'd like to introduce to you one of my little sisters.

Her name is Kayla...but I like to call her K.J. Binkens. It reminds me of the days on the farm, where our biggest concerns were what was being served for dinner...and what kind of mischief we could possibly get in to before bedtime. It is amazing this girl still talks to me to this day. She was my human guinea pig. She enthusiastically performed any zany off the wall idea I threw her way.

"Hey Kayla, go touch the eletctric fence. It's not turned on today".

"Hey Kayla, sled down this 1/4 mile hill that's practically a sheer drop off, and while your at it dodge 97 cows along the way"

"Hey Kayla...eat this"

I was wrong on more than a million levels, but through it all she remained loyal to her big sisters' request. We've been through a lot. A lot a lot.

This girl is beyond amazing. At 21, she possesses more moral fiber and goodness than my big toe. As her big sister I aspire to be more like her. She is a phenomenal Mom to her son Logan, a fantastic wife, an amazing sister and a loyal friend.

For as long as I can remember, she's spoke of having a big family. She has a huge heart and amazing patience, enough to produce an Army of little chittlin's...and to raise them and nurture them into fine human beings.

Last week, at 21, my sister was basically told that she was not going to be able to have any more children. At that age, how do you take on something that HUGE?! At 25 I can't even begin to wrap my head around it.

I am completely heartbroken for her. I am angry for her. I am at a loss for words. But I know she has the strength of millions, and she will endure.

I love ya girl. Your my hero.

All Sorts of Busy

2008-09-22T20:41:00.000-05:00

I apologize for being MIA. I got sick sometime between Monday and Friday of last week. I've lost all sense of time, so I've either been without a voice for a couple days or a week. Not really sure. Along with losing my voice and sense of time, I seem to have lost the Pep in my Step. If anyone has located said Pep, please notify him I'd sure like to have him back.

I'd like to share with you a snap of my clinical group. I'll be working very closely with this group of individuals over the next 12 weeks on a Med/Surg unit.

For 7:30 in the morning, we look pretty darn enthused if ya ask me. I iced my eyes that morning and you can still barely see them. I've learned to embrace the bags, they only get angry if you try to cover them up.

In other news...I am at a loss as to what I should do with girlie's hair.

It's at that extremely akward stage, one that I know all too well about. Where I'm not sure if I want to let the bangs grow out or just keep on choppin' em. She is totally uncooperative either way, so until she makes up her mind about what she wants she will be sporting the shaggy-bum-hockey player look.

I wish everyone a great week!

Is It Friday Yet?

2008-09-18T16:46:00.000-05:00

It's been a long week. A long, rough, draining week. After almost two years of being joined at the hip with my daughter, she is realizing she has a father. Suddenly, I am invisible. The heart-warming welcome that I received the first week of school, has been replaced by more important things...like Yo Gabba Gabba marathons. I received a less than admirable grade on a test yesterday, despite my own marathons with nursing books. And I'm once again remembering what it was like to be seriously sleep deprived.

I realized last night that my Ben and Jerry's collection had been replaced with a much more fundamental element of the food pyramid.

Before you draw the conclusion I am a lush, I assure you there is no lushing going on here. In fact, I'm lucky if I can make it down to the label of any given beverage before I pass out of sheer exhaustion. I just have a tendency to collect things, hence the assortment of liquid nourishment.

I did a breakdown of the contents of our refrigerator. It goes as follows:

70% Condiments
20% Beverages
8% Ice Cream
5% Freezer Burn
4% Strawberry Parfait
1% Very Expired Yogurt (hey, I made an attempt to be healthy)

I realize this does not come to 100%. I also realize I currently lack the motivation to do math.

Despite eager attempts to make food magically appear, I assure you no matter how many times you go back and check...despite however many magical connotations you utter prior to opening the door, it will still contain 100% foodlessness.

I think it's time for a trip to our friendly grocer. Unless anyone knows of any delectable dinner recipes I can whip up with what I got.

When Animals Attack

2008-09-17T17:04:00.000-05:00

Let me start by saying, I love my daughter dearly. She brings more joy and happiness to my heart than I ever thought possible to attain.

That being said, sometimes this kid just makes me stop dead in my tracks and wonder...

"who are your parents?!"

I'd like to introduce to you Quackers.

Kaitlyn had no choice in the matter about developing a fondness of ducks. Well before she exited my womb, it was predermined her stuffed animal of choice and item of comfort would be a duck. My Mom and I have this thing...I'm baby duck, she's momma duck. That's just how it is. I wanted to pass this on my own girl.

SO, now that we got the logistics out of the way...I'd like to share with you an event that took place not too long ago. It was early morning, and we were eating breakfast. As usual, Kaitlyn included Mr. Quakers. Here he is accompanying her on the picnic table for her morning meal:

There were even periodic pauses for smooches.

I don't prompt these things folks, they just happen. She thinks very fondly of Mr. Quackers.

Or so I thought.

Looking back, I think this may be the very moment when Mr. Quakers realized something just wasn't right.

The fear is in his eyes. The next thing you know, up leaps the girl and without warning ATTACKS poor innocent Mr. Quackers.

Oblivous to the flurry of feathers and pleading quacks, she preceeds to do a full on bum to beak pro wrestling move.

Just when I thought she was about to show this poor fellow some mercy, she decides to take him to the stairs.

*Warning* The following is not for the faint of heart or avid animal lover.

This girl then winds back and pummels Quackers repeatedly into the banister!

Just as soon as it began it was over. I don't know what caused my dear Kaitlyn to lose all composure and go on a duck pummeling frenzy. Maybe he eyeballed her cereal wrong. What baffles me is she has never been exposed to violence, whether it be on tv or anywhere else. I'm thinking these animal instincts are hard-wired in us all somehow. I hope this is no indication of what is yet to come in her teenage years.

Yeesh

It's Official

2008-09-15T21:02:00.000-05:00

The summer could quite possibly be coming to an end. It was 64 degrees this morning when I left for school. I stepped out onto the doorstep, and did an about-face before my second foot even hit the landing. I actually wore a sweatshirt to school today. A SWEATSHIRT! My peeps back home would be thoroughly disappointed. There was a time back in Iowa where the temp would be in the teens or lower... and I would be running around in a t-shirt. What can I say, Texas will change a lady right fast and in a hurry.

I sure won't miss you 300 dollar electric bills.

My Partner in Crime

2008-09-14T09:17:00.000-05:00

I got to see a good friend of mine yesterday. Her husband was my boss when I worked in the ER back in my Army days. Her husband is on yet ANOTHER deployment, I swear this man is gone more than he is home. Everytime we get together we have a blast, and yesterday was no exception...even if the kids acted like they just fled the circus. She just celebrated her much dreaded 30th birthday. :) I don't know what she is frettin'. Little brat looks fantastic, does she not?!

Her husband sent her some beautiful roses for her birthday, along with this gorgeous saphire and diamond ring. We decided to take some pics of them to show him how appreciative she was of them:

I love ya girl, it was awesome seeing you again. We need to do it again very soon!

Don't Mess With Texas!

2008-09-13T09:10:00.000-05:00

So going back to our visit in Pflugerville, since I finally had the time to edit a few pictures. To recap we found this country housing development, with just gorgeous lakes and ponds and landscaping. Not to mention there were about a dozen horses roaming around the outskirts of the neighborhood. It was like my dream area to live. We're seriously kicking ourselves in the butts for not adventuring East a few miles before we decided on a house to buy.

But not everything can be perfect right?! I realized this after chasing Kaitlyn down to this little lookout area:

I picked her up to look at the fountain and noticed an odor loud enough to make your nose hair cringe. I looked down and saw this:

Whyyyyyyyyyyyyyy?! It wasn't just this one tiny spot, it was scattered everywhere. And it smelled like all the sewage from the neighborhood, heck the state of Texas, dumped into this little pond. Slightly disappointed.

Whatever happened to "Don't mess with Texas"!?

Hurricane Ike

2008-09-12T20:25:00.000-05:00

Anyone else disturbingly addicted to this 24 hour news coverage besides me? We were let out of school early, as was other schools and businesses to prepare for the impending hurricane. This town is NUTS with evacuees. The streets and highways are jammed to the max. There are make shift shelters scattered all throughout town, and the hospitals have had an influx of Houston area patients. Of course the government is taking full advantage of us all by kindly jacking up the price of gasoline. Good thing I bought that scooter the other day. *sarcasm*

I really hope this things bark is bigger than it's bite. My prayers are going out to everyone.

HOW Do I Get This Job?!

2008-09-11T16:48:00.000-05:00

There was a time when I admired the gal/guy who got to give ice cream flavors their name. Alas, I think I have found a more inspiring position.

I mean really, do they just have a random word generator to throw these things together? Because I'm just full of random nonsense. How bout "Pickle Pants Dr." or "Flip Flap Lane".

Sandy Bottom? I would have to snort everytime I sent out a bill and wrote my return address.

If you are a Mom, you can not help but look at this and want to belt out the Spongebob Squarepant's theme song.

Oh don't look at me like I'm crazy. Really, you didn't want to sing a few bars?

Not even the chorus?

Fine. I'll go chuckle by myself.

PS. I've had a TON of inquiries about how I did the levitating photo a couple days back. I plan on doing a lil tutorial for ya'll over the weekend, so stay tuned. :)

PSS. Happy Birthday Jenny. My littlest sister turned 18 today. Which means I am getting old. LOL.

My New Ride

2008-09-10T21:09:00.000-05:00

So in an effort to cut down on fuel costs, I decided to trade in my gas guzzling SUV for a more fuel efficient vehicle. This baby boasts an impressive 55 miles to the gallon. I had kids...errr people lined up to take it for a spin around the block. Look out for those shocks boy. Spring loaded. Bout dumped me off.

Kaitlyn went for the eco-friendly duel dolphins.

She was far more interested in running around and checkin things out. I'm sure I'll be sharing a ton of pics throughout the week of our trip to Pflugerville. No I didn't sneeze, this poor town is named Pflugerville. It was gorgeous though, I found some horses and ponds and bridges and on and on. Made me miss living on a farm. Badly.

I'm bout to call it a night.

Floatin' on Air

2008-09-09T16:26:00.000-05:00

I couldn't be more pleased with how the last 2 days of testing has gone. This was exactly the kind of motivation I needed to get psyched up for the rest that is to come. I feel all giddy. :)

Oh Happy Day!!!

2008-09-08T15:04:00.000-05:00

So I took my first test today. I not only passed, I SMOKED it.

You could be right Becky, I may possibly have an ounce of skillllllllllll in me.

Tribute to McHubby

2008-09-07T19:00:00.000-05:00

On August 7th, my amazing and wonderful Hubby graduated from Nursing school. I couldn't be more proud of him. This man worked 36 hours on Saturday and Sunday alone, and slaved away with school the entire week. He practically ran off of fumes, and still had time to be a fantastic husband and daddy. *tear*

Of course at graduation, I had to play the role of borderline psychotic paparazzi wife. I think this may have been the only time he's ever been okay with me going snap happy.

Here he is throwing out a "hook-em horn".

That picture reminds me of McSteamy. I've been trying to convince him to grow out his hair the way Sloan has it...

*sighhhhhhhhh*

Okay, where were we? My point is, two years ago I couldn't even begin to imagine hubby being done with school. It felt like an infinity away. And now here I am, waiting for that same infinity to get my diploma. The day I get to strut across the stage in my spiffy lab coat. In the great scheme of things, I don't want the next two years to fly by. That's two years that I can never get back, ya know what I mean? So I'm hoping I can find some sort of balance with it all, the way hubby managed to do it.

Wish me luck, I have a monster of a test tomorrow!

Stalling

2008-09-06T11:43:00.000-05:00

So I have 2 major exams coming up on Monday and Tuesday. I am preparing for them just as any other diligent student would. By frolicking around state parks and taking pictures of random vegetation.

There was far more sun in the sky than I would have liked for there to be, but I didn't care. I was sweating bullets and my lens was collecting condensation, but it wasn't studying and that's all that mattered.

Hubby has shown quite the interest in photography lately. I don't know if I am flattered or befuddled. Not to mention, his ability to nail exposure is slightly irritating. He's taken quite an interest in photographing me of all things.

He gets all into it, telling me where to stand and how to pose. He even looks for catchlights. It's kinda cute.

I think I'm heading over to a friend's house today. Notice a pattern here? I just can't bring myself to study. I think I need a nice fat F on this first test to motivate me.

So I Decided to Start a Diet

2008-09-03T21:14:00.000-05:00

And by diet, I mean I switched out my usual heavy cream topping with lite cool-whip on my strawberry shortcake tonight.

I have never had the ability to diet. Ever. I just don't have it in me. I tell myself I will eat less of the things I really enjoy. I think people who can eliminate carbs and all that nonsense are whackos. Yes I said it, whackos.

I apologize for my outburst, I'm just jealous.

Take for instance my stash of Ben & Jerry's. Hubby told me the other night my collection was getting out of control. We didn't have any room in the freezer to store more nutritous items like bagel bites and Dijourno's. So we decided to do the only thing that made sense, and we ate our way to more shelf space. And how am I repaid for my hard work? This morning I had to visit the "fat girl" section of the closet. I don't arrange my closet by color or that sort of thing. Instead I have it in weight categories. And right now I am somewhere in between "Bloated" and "Maternity".

Okay, I think I'm done grumbling and complaining now. But seriously, I'm going to do my best to start a new tomorrow. I refuse to go up another closet section.

Ahhhhhh. Labor Day

2008-09-01T14:31:00.000-05:00

Let the celebration of labor by non-laboring commence.

I'm not even 2 weeks into school, and I am beyond relieved to have a day off. Wasting no time, we decided to kick our day off by stopping to smell the flowers. Here's Kaitlyn offering a fine demonstration.

Here wings were flappin hummingbird style, rendering my camera incapable of capturing them motionless.

I am not plant and/or flower savvy. I can not tell you what this is, but I can say I like the orange-i-ness of it.

Today girly is sportin' her Chatterbox tee and diva cap.

Poor thing is pasty prone like her Momma. She's going to be a giant freckle by the time she reaches 5.

A lil' sidewalk scribble:

Technically it's our back porch. But nobody calls it back porch chalk.

That's all I have to share today. I'm anticipating a glorious day of grocery shopping and nursing diagnoses.

Windmills & Other Things

2008-08-31T21:32:00.000-05:00

I have this thing about windmills. I'm not sure what it is exactly, but I'm drawn to them. I think there is something peaceful and comforting about them. We have a storm rolling in, maybe a prelude to what's to come. Courtesy of Mr. Gustav.

We took a drive out to my favorite park, and since girly wasn't cooperating...I decided to focus on the windmill.

I've been trying desperately to get a decent silhoutte shot, and this is about as good as it gets. And that's not saying a lot. ;) If your reading this Becky, I'm sure you could totally blow me away with your crazy outdoors shots. I'm sure you could get a windmill with like, lightning bolts going through it.

Crackhead. Becky likes to stand in her garage during vicious storms and photograph lighting. Okay enough picking on Becky. I'm just jealous she has the cajones to go out in a storm and take pictures. I'm afraid my camera will spontaneously combust or something.

Need to hit the books now...

Alice in Wonderland

2008-08-30T22:16:00.000-05:00

Well not really, but that's what came to mind when I was editing these. For some reason or another, Girly decided today was a good day to actually look at the camera. Wish she would have more of those days.

PS. I didn't resize these for the blog, so the horizontal pics are missing some off the right.

Also...I was messing around with some layers, trying to create a ghetto version of some awesome actions I've seen people use. Does this work?

Okay, enough stalling. I need to study.

Turns Out He Listens After All

2008-08-29T22:17:00.000-05:00

So Hubby TOTALLY suprised me today. We were waiting outside a restaurant to eat dinner tonight, and I decided sometime during our 40 minute wait to whip out the camera. Girly was completely and utterly un-cooperative. Nothing new there. Hubby wanted to try to take some pictures of me, so I figured what the heck. Turns out the guy actually listens to all my completely random babble about photography! I mean he was using all this terminology, and explaining how he made sure not to chop any limbs or have foreign objects coming out me head. I'm SO proud of him! He even (almost) nailed the exposure, which is more than I can even say about my work.

Anywho. Here are a couple of shots he did:

I really need to send in my 50mm 1.4 and my camera body. They still are acting extremely funny. These were taken with my 50, but the focus is really not what it use to be.

Enough camera talk. I'm dying to crawl in bed.

Technical Difficulties

2008-08-27T18:11:00.000-05:00

I never claimed to be computer savy. In fact, I am pretty computer Stupid. I'd even go as far as saying moronic.

I just completely deleted a blog post from the other day. Don't ask me how I did it. It just happened, somewhere amidst my flurry of backspaces and mouse clicks.

I feel bad now, so I'm going to summarize the deleted post to the best of my capabilities. It was something like...

and then a little of this...

then this...

some more words and punctuation marks...

Uhhhhhh yeah that'll have to do. Along with an outstanding knowledge of computers, I was blessed with a fantastic memory.

Introducing, My New Wardrobe

2008-08-27T16:38:00.000-05:00

So here it is, the uniform I will proudly sport for the next 2 years of my life.

Please disregard the mess of toys in the lower left hand corner. And my goofy smirk.

I said disregard!

Moving on. I happen to be very fond of the color teal...or is it cerulean...I don't know. I do know that that much of any color is just not good. Or fashionable. And to top it off, we get to wear a nerdy lab coat over top of it. Which reminds me, I don't have a pic in the lab coat.

*stand by*

I realize that the excessive spacing there was unecessary. It took me a long time to take the stupid picture, and I felt I needed to symbolically convey this through my writing. I couldn't find my remote timer, so I had to go in front of the bathroom mirror and do it old school.

No my lens is not dirty. Yes my bathroom mirror is. Yeesh you people don't let me get by with anything do you? And yes, the coat could use a good iron. I'm fully aware I'm not living up to this Domestic Goddess title. That's why I'm still in training. Cut a girl some slack.

I kind of enjoy the lab coat. Even though it is 5 times too big for me. And the manufacturers let me feel questionably comfortable with my body, giving it the ridiculous label of X-Small. Your not fooling anyone Mr. Lab Coat manufacturer. We all know after all the Ben & Jerry's I've been slamming the only thing that feels extra-small are my jeans. Which I think by the way Hubby may have put in the dryer and shrunk. Well that's what I'm blaming it on anyway. I had to do that whole fiasco of lunges and squats in my jeans in order to get them to fit "properly" and not create a thigh forest fire when I walked.

Wow, where were we going with this?

Oh right, so the lab coat. I feel all professional or something. Like a scientist or a physician. Funny, the title nurse doesn't even come to mind. It's funny how a uniform will transform you, and make you feel and act differently. Like when I was in the Army and wore my BDU's. Anytime I had those things on, I just felt compelled to rough someone up. Of course I would have to patch them back up, because I was a medic and that's what medics do. Besides, I'm not the violent type really.

WOW can we stay on task here?

I think I'm finally realizing the reality of this whole nursing thing now. I have to admit, I am feeling a wee bit overwhelmed with it all. In fact, I better stop lolly-gagging and get on with my studying.

Ugh.

Little Slice of Heaven

2008-08-25T19:19:00.001-05:00

So yesterday I found myself needing to get out of the house. I was told of this place nearby from a photographer called Sun City. Call me crazy, but I think the title of the city actually made it seem to be about 10 degrees hotter. Luckily, it was a cool 93, or else I may have evaporated somewhere along the way.

Turns out just 8 miles down the highway I have the most beautiful tranquil spot like ever. Well maybe not ever, but after staring at the walls in my house all weekend and chasing the rugrat around, it was pretty darn enchanting.

I wasn't able to stay until the best part of the sunset, but was pretty happy with what I did get to see.

We were actually on about a 50 foot cliff, which didn't set easy with me beings the only thing preventing us from going over was a horizontal pole. I know better to stay away, girly on the other hand was eager to investigate.

Overall it was a nice visit. I'd like to go back again soon, maybe when the weather cools down.

Ice Cream...it's What's For Dinner

2008-08-24T16:35:00.000-05:00

I was throwing myself a pity party the other night, one that could only be consoled by a Smirnoff and a pint of ice cream. During my pajama adorned trip to the grocery store, I found myself in a dilemma. My personal favorite happens to be Oatmeal Cookie. However, I was unsure whether or not even the mystical powers of Oatmeal Cookie could soothe my gripes and grumbles.

So I picked up the new Cake Batter.

Which led to me picking up the new Cinnamon Buns.

And then what if hubby decided he wanted in on my ice cream tirade?! He is purely a vanilla kind of guy, but just in case I picked up Whirled Peace and Half Baked. Then I tried to justify that because Peach Cobbler included a fruit in the title, it could be partially nutritious. Despite the fact the peaches were smothered in cream and shortbread.

Ben and Jerry's is a diverse food product, in that it can simultaneously elevate a mood and make you feel like a complete fat ass all at the same time. A unique concept however, is that one doesn't comprehend the later until the bottom of the container has been revealed.

That's where the alcoholic beverage comes in handy.

Hope everyone had a great weekend.

My Daughter...the Penny Pincher

2008-08-23T12:10:00.000-05:00

I'd like to introduce to you, Mr. Piggles the Piggy Bank.

Mr. Piggles is a gift from Grandma Young. Up until now, he was merely a colorful pig that made neat jingly sounds when you shook him. The other day I demonstrated to Kaitlyn the art of stowing away coins. She found this to be quite the exciting task.

I gave her a handful of coins, and one by one she fed them to Mr. Piggles.

(notice the chicken remnant? I told you they were everywhere.)

This next picture shows the exact moment when she realized she had run out of coins. If you look closely, you can actually see the look of desperation across her face.

She eyeballed the thing for a good minute, which in the mind of a two year old is next to forever.She bargained and pleaded even. She then did what every reasonable toddler would do.

She threw a fit.

I'm unsure who won. Kaitlyn or Mr. Piggles.

Then as if by an act of God, her entire demeanor changed. A smile emerged. I thought this to be extremely odd. She got up and immediately started lifting the carpet up.

How in the Heck does she even think to do this? For the record I have never searched for anything under the carpet before, and even if I did it was never in front of her.

Crazy thing is...there ended up being a penny under there!

I was baffled. Has she been stowing away a secret coin collection? Once she found it, she turned into a complete goofball. I was cracking up at this time at her animated celebration. I was unable to hold the camera still enough to get a decent shot of her victory dance.

Off to look under the rest of the rugs. Maybe I'll get lucky.

Photoshoot with the Beautiful Rebecca

2008-08-20T23:23:00.000-05:00

I had the opportunity to do a photoshoot with an old co-worker and friend today. I was practically a puddle of sweat after it all, but it was SO worth it. Isn't she Gorgeous!

These are just a few from our shoot. Thanks again Rebecca, it was AWESOME seeing you. We need to do it again sometime. I'm e-x-h-a-u-s-t-e-d. That sun wiped me out. Although, I did lose about 8 lbs in sweat so hooray me! I think. I can't wait to shower and crawl in bed.

By the way, my 85mm 1.8 lens came in the mail today! Wooooohoo! That thing focuses faster than nobodies business. And the bokeh is just Mmm mm buttery smooth. Love it.

Before I go...here are a couple more from the shoot.

The unusual train that passed us, backed up, and then came at us again. I think it had something against Rebecca's shoes.

Okay that's all for now. I have a HUGE day tomorrow. It's my 8 hour orientation for the nursing program. Wooohoo! Night ya'll!

Fowl Play

2008-08-19T13:47:00.001-05:00

While picking up the house this morning I came across what appeared to be the remnants of a seriously confused chicken. Strategically placed in almost every room, I came across this:

Purple and white feathers. I followed the trail to the top of the stairs, where I found to be what I thought was ground zero for the multi-colored mutant. It was about a 6" section of amputated feather fluff.

I picked up the strand of ratted up feathers, and suddenly realized what it was. My sister, who had been down recently to visit from Iowa, had brought along a feather boa. Her intentions were to have Kaitlyn use it as a fun girly prop during a photoshoot. However we got so caught up in everything else during her short visit, that we had completely forgotten about it.

Appearantly somebody didn't.

There have been times in the past (pre-kiddo) that I have seen kids in public with the most ABSURD outfits. I would say to myself "How can their parents let them dress like that", and "I would Neeeeever let my kid dress like that outside the house".

I am now eating my very words. I sheepishly made an attempt to re-attach the disected chicken strand, and in doing so almost lost a limb of my own. Girlie FLIPPED out. I mean she went kung-fo on my ass. I threw my hands up in defeat and took a step back to admire my stubborn little diva.

That's my girl.

Calling in Sick

2008-08-18T11:48:00.000-05:00

Right. If only it worked that way.

I'm feeling a little overwhelmed today. For some reason or another I woke up with a years worth of realizations flooding my mind, and in the process I think I may have injured my brain. If that's even possible.

Oh whatever. Excuse me while I take this brief moment to protest all that is annoying, frustrating and confusing in my life.

Okay, I'm done now.

I had something witty planned for today, but will have to postone it to a less brain-injured day. In the mean time, I thought I'd share some recent shots with my new Canon 10-22mm lens. Thanks again Hubby for not divorcing me when it magically appeared at our doorstep last week.

Wednesday I'm awaiting another magical visit from a man in brown. The Canon 85mm 1.8lens. Suprising enough, it wasn't my idea to get it. Hubby actually provoked and encouraged it. I'm wondering now as I write this if a secret love child of his is about to submerge. I guess I'll worry about that later.

In other news, a very dear friend of mine is having a baby girl...like as we speak. She just got her epidural. I'm heartbroken that I can't be there. However I'm super fantastically stoked to do a new born photoshoot! Woot woot! Speaking of photoshoots, I have one planned on Wednesday with an old co-worker and her beautiful boys. I can't wait!

Off to get my Diet Dr. Pepper out of the freezer. And a motrin.

Possibly two.

Sometimes I Get Distracted

2008-08-17T11:40:00.000-05:00

I woke up with good intentions this morning. I promise I did. I even woke up before everyone else, and if you know me at all...you know this is big. I took out a notebook and sat down in the kitchen, and decided to make a list of all the things I wanted to accomplish today. I tried not to get ahead of myself, as I tend to do most of the time. I set the bar low, that way I'd increase my chances of getting through everything. I think it's important on my path to become a Domestic Goddess to perfect the art of managing my time. We all know time is precious, and more often than not we find ourselves wishing we had more of it. I started with the following:

1. Clean up kitchen
2. Make grocery menu for the week
3. Take girls to the park for photoshoot
4. Put oven cleaner in oven before bed

I felt pretty good about my list; nothing excessively difficult and enough to keep me busy. I even went as far as taking my cleaning tote thingy-madoodle out of the closet.

And then my problem began. The night before I was skimming through my mental health nursing book at the table. Psychology has always interested me, and this particular book happens to be pretty darn captivating. Not to mention the book contains ridiculous illustrations and funny captions.

I picked up the book and moved out to the living room, at which point the girls were up and enjoying cartoons over breakfast.

I wasn't up for deep reading, just flipping through looking at the pictures. I found the following images to be both entertaining and borderline depressing.

That's when I stumbled upon Hildegard, who appearantly was some big shot psych nurse back in the day. The discoveries she had made in the field of pscyh nursing were pretty inspiring.

In fact I was so inspired, I felt compelled to become Hildegard. Here comes my moment of weakness...which inevidably lead to my demise.

I searched and searched AND SEARCHED to find the perfect attire for my Hildegard transformation. Sadly, this was the best I could come up with...

Join me now, for a moment of silence to reflect upon the great advances in both technology and fashionable attire.

And just for fun...here are a couple of close contenders. I happen to be feeling comfortable enough to share these with all you thousands of viewers at home. (ha)

If this one didn't appear so paranoid, I would have chosen it:

Wow. Ummmmm yeah. I don't know.

The Excitement Starts...Now!

2008-08-16T10:55:00.001-05:00

Don't be jealous. You are about to witness the greatness that is Nursing Textbooks.

Please folks, hold your applause until the end. Feel free however, to stare in awe.
I think I'm finally ready to put aside the fact the resale value on these puppies is enough to purchase a small car. Or a plethora of some kick @ss camera lenses. (oh man, is it too late to return these things?!) I need to embrace them. I need to anticipate my forthcoming wealth of knowledge, and relish the fact in another 2 years I will be earning a paycheck once again.

I was concerned my Olympiad-esque bod (sarcasm) would go to shambles during the new school semester. I'm now realizing I have nothing to fear, the sheer thought of towing these around is making me break a sweat. Are you ready to be shocked? These books will get me through the first YEAR of school. In case you are wondering, combined there are a total of 11,056 pages. Yes, I added them up. See this book here, "Fundamentals of Nursing"?

There are THREE authors. If it takes 3 people to write the dang thing, ONE person shouldn't be expected to read it. Just my opinion.

Despite the fact I'm dreading my upcoming workload, I have to say I'm slightly anticipating being back in scrubs. I admire a profession that can walk around in pajamas all day. I even got to go school shopping. According to school policy, I need to have all white shoes to wear during clinicals. I scoped out many a pair, and finally decided on these Sketchers. They were both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing...or as much so as white shoes can get.

I may have slightly violated their strict policy on "all white" shoe. In an effort to retain some sort of diva status while performing mundane messy nursing tasks (please don't ask for clarification), I opted for the shoe with the glittery "S" logo.

Am I getting too old for glitter? Hmmmm.

Jumpin' on the blog-wagon

2008-08-15T19:16:00.000-05:00

Never really considered myself the bloggin' type...but figured what the hey. Along with all my other spontaneous off the wall ideas, this could self-destruct in a week or two...but at least I can say I tried.

Without further ado...let me introduce myself. I'm a 20 something year old mother/wife/student trying to discover how I fit into this crazy chaotic mess of life. Okay, I admit...mess may be a wee bit overly-dramatic. From here on out we shall refer to it as "my quest to find myself in this journey of life".

Much better.

Pause for a photo op:

I'm suffering from the worlds worse case of career ADHD. I have the attention span of a two year old...more specific MY two year old, when it comes to deciding what exactly it is I want to do with my life. What do I want to be when I grow up. I will most likely be pondering this very question on my 50th birthday. I've considered everything from:

Interior Designer
Professional Boxer
Extreme Storm Chaser
Photographer
Emergency Room Physician

The list goes on and on.
.
.
.
.
and on.

Until I get this all sorted out I've decided to hone in on my skills of titles I've already achieved...like Mother and Wife. Never during my rebelious years in the Army (oh yeah I did the whole Army thing for 6 years) did I ever imagine I would be chasing a *rugrat around, perfecting the art of being a stay at home mom.

*rugrat reference*

I was an untamed soul who needed, desperately needed, to be independant and free to do as I pleased. I'm still in an adjustment period, with my daughter's 2nd birthday fast approaching in October. Although there are times when I want to close the oven door on my head, I am loving every minute of this stay at home lifestyle. Not too many women have the opportunity and privilege to stay at home and watch their children grow.

But. And their's always a but. I'm soon to lose my SAHM status, and upgrade to (or downgrade) to full-time nursing student, who entertains her rugrat and plays housewife in her spare time. I've been piddling with college for the last 3 years, and have 100 credit hours...and nothing to show for it. Except for a pretty snazzy GPA. (pat on back) I've changed degree plans more times than I can count. It's time I got serious.

Seriously.