Living the Life - Mo on the Go

SnOMG

2012-01-30T15:57:00.000-08:00

Now that all the hoopla has passed about snowmaggedon, I'll share pictures from the days in which western Washington was pounded with snow, which then turned into freezing rain/sleet, which then made everything slick like an ice rink, followed by trees snapping from the weight of the snow and ice, which took us straight into a wind storm which led to power outages, which led to an impromptu party of sorts at my house.

It's all connected people!

Above is a view from my office/craft window on day 2.

All the pictures are from day 2 and 3.

Below are from my balcony patio off of the living room.

Luckily none of my trees snapped from the elements nor did I lose power. We did have a period of time in which the sewage system was thought to be frozen however.

Minor snow and ice buildup compared to other areas in the hood.

More snow fell than this when all was said and done.

Hello ice rink day 3. Every surface was coated with ice.

This is a color shot. I know it may be hard to believe but 'tis true. That was the color of our sky for a days on end.

This tree doesn't lean this way on a normal day.

Living in a winter wonderland.

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxo, Mo

Desk Abstract

2012-01-20T14:42:00.000-08:00

My constant desk/office companions have grown.

On top, Brown Betty. It really appeals to my "green" side and rolling documentation needs by having the insert be refillable versus hardbound. I use it for work related conversations, voice mails, to do, outgoing calls, etc.. It's pretty much a catch all for me and even in the technological age in which we live, I can't imagine my life without Brown Betty by my side.  I heart it so much I have a black one for personal use.

Next is my latest best friend, which is a 947 page book on all things Office 2010. I also have a 1114 page book just for Excel 2010. I know you are envious.

Below this is a padded clipboard with a legal pad of paper. It's called a fashion clipboard in the stores. You wouldn't expect anything less from me would you? I didn't think so. When analysis and documentation call for old school pencil and paper from time to time, why not have a pretty clipboard, especially when you are able to find it on sale like I did for less than $2.00?

Rounding out the bottom is a leather covered notebook in which there are contact lists, geographical map information, a calendar -- you know some of the essentials you might need to in a jiffy -- encased in moveable plastic folder pocket dividers.  It also has paper to write on and the coolest part of this customizable system by arc is you can move the sheets around in the binder without the bulkiness of a 3 ring binder.

That's just what's on top of the desk. Let's not even get started for what I carry in my briefcase when I'm on the road.

Ok, ok. Maybe I will do that one day but not today.

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxO, Mo

Living in a Winter Wonderland

2012-01-18T08:09:00.000-08:00

Current weather conditions in my neck of the woods is
28 degrees

Feels like 25 degrees

High is forecasted to be 31

Low is forecasted to be 28

The winds are 11 mph NNE

Dewpoint is 27°

Sunrise was at 7:50 AM

Humidity is 93%

Sunset is at 4:49 PM

Visibility is 1 mile

UV index 0

In the last hour, 0.06 precipitation was measured

A nice, fluffy powder type of snow is falling right this minute.

It sure is pretty to look at outside my window, with a cup of coffee in hand and slipper socks on my feet.

Telecommunting was an obvious choice today.

Back in the day I would be hankering to hit the slopes but my bum knee tells me otherwise these days. 2 surgeries is one too many.

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxO, Mo

On the Menu

2012-01-14T05:41:00.000-08:00

It's my turn to host one of my book club meeting of the minds. I belong to two book clubs. Both are great with different selections and wonderful ladies I enjoy sharing life with.

I chose The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. The book intrigues me and I figured for the new year, why not see if anything resonates with us.

It's supposed to be cold with the chance of snow on Sunday in these parts. Duh. It is January after all.

When I sat down to menu plan I wanted to select healthy comfort food that would stick to your ribs and warm you from the inside out.

I hope what I've selected appeals to the group.

On the menu
Lots of fruits and veggies for nibbling
Mini lean turkey meatloaf
Beef in a bucket - you choose how you want to nom on the tri tip goodness
Fresh lime and black bean soup
Polenta style corn casserole
Bell pepper nachos

One friend is bringing a delicious dipping sauce for the veggies and another a hearty chili.

Should make for a great Sunday afternoon with the girls!

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxo, Mo

13 on the 13th

2012-01-13T09:18:00.000-08:00

Starting something new.

On the 13th of each month I will post random facts about me, things I am grateful for, ponderings . . . whatever thought comes to mind first when I sit down at the computer.

Bringing the tag line of the "Welcome to Me" to life for all to see.

1. Thankful for the nourishment the bowl of oatmeal just provided. Even though it was somewhat of a let down taste wise, at least I am blessed to wake from my bed, walk to my kitchen, and have food in the pantry. None of that should be taken for granted since many in the world don't have the same.

2. Treadmill, yoga, or weights today. Maybe a combo of two but moving is on the agenda for sure.

3. This vacation day is full of personal to dos - shopping, cleaning, visit to the DMV, filing, maybe cleaning out of a closet. I wonder how much I can squeeze into a day full of promise.

4. Found out from a friend, who was gracious enough to take the time to snap a picture and text it to me, all Paper Zones are closing. Everything is on sale. Do I dip into the crafty budget and stock up or be a good girl and resist the urge?

5. Speaking of paper, I need to make time to bust out a few Happy 2012 cards and design this years' V Day love in the mail cards.

6. It's cold but oh so pretty outside right now. The world is screaming come out and play in me.

7. I want to go out and play but I have tons to do. An unorganized home makes me less happy inside and efficient.

8. My cat . . .she's awesome. I'm glad she picked me.

9. "Everything Counts" by Depeche Mode just came on random play. I heart that song and the memories associated with it.

10. They say scent is the strongest recall. I agree with this and also think music is right up there as being the strongest recall. I hear a song and boom, I'm transported back in time.

11. Speaking of back in time, I was struck with the thought of live life forward last night. You know the voice inside of you that whispers, then talks, and lastly beats you upside the head until you hear AND listen to what it is saying to you? Well you may not have a voice like that but I do. I heard it speak loud and clear last night. Live. Life. Forward.

12. I am currently reading more non fiction books than fiction. Inspiration and learnings abound.

13. Time to get this day started!

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOXo, Mo

Duh!

2012-01-05T16:51:00.000-08:00

Santa brought me a daily calendar for my enjoyment in 2011. You can read about it here.

I shared some of the facts with friends, professionally and personally, when I felt there was a good one to send.

No Secret Santa calendar was gifted to me this year. I pondered if I should buy one or not.

The answer became clear this afternoon as I dropped a chunk of change on 2010 Excel and Microsoft Office 2010 books this afternoon.

At 50% off, I couldn't resist picking up a new one to carry on the fun fact sharing. Bonus is I use the back of the sheets for notes, scribbles, etc.. This calendar has daily extra treats in the form of puzzles, riddles, tips, facts on the back of the page so for the price I paid for it, I declare SCORE!

I know you really want to know what today holds in store for you.

It's what I would refer to as an eh one. You might really like it though.

Here goes - Clear Thinking on a Cloudy Day: The magazine writer Dorothy Parker, infamous for her sharp wit, held a long-running feud in the 1920s with the wealthy socialite Clare Booth Luce. At a formal party, someone complimented Mrs. Luce by exclaiming that the wife of the publisher of Time magazine was always kind to her inferiors. "Really?" Parker responded. "And where does she find them?"

The Daily Extra? Unscramble the following letters to reveal this January word: aw steer

It took me a few minutes but I figured out the word. Do you see it too?

Peace, Love, and Laughter. xOxO, Mo

Latest in my World

2012-01-03T14:26:00.000-08:00

I joined the rest of the world and purchased a gaming system.

XBOX360.

I only have Kinect games right now.

However, my controller and headset are ready when I am ready.

Many thanks to my friends Mikael and Justine for helping me with the hookup and accessories this weekend.

Few tweaks were needed in the living room, such as moving the couch further back to make room for play, moving the surround sound speakers, a lamp, and a side table.

I either need my sound master J-Lo or get the Geek Squad over to get everything running smoothly sound, blu ray, and streaming services wise.

Other than this, we're good to go.

When should I expect you?

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxO, Mo

If Your Life Was a Movie . . .

2012-01-01T09:50:00.000-08:00

I'm going to start a new tradition of sorts.

On the first day of each new year, as I delight in black eyed peas, I am going to do the soundtrack to my life.

My friend Heather has posted hers on facebook for the last 3 years.

It's a fun way to ~~expose~~ see what you listen to and how your musical tastes may change from year to year.

So, with this being said, here's how you play if your life were a movie, your soundtrack would be. . .

1. Open your music library (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc)
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For the first question, type the song that's playing
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button TWICE
6. Don't lie and try to pretend you're cool...just type it in man!

I linked to youtube so you can listen to the tunes if you don't recognize them. Click on the song title in orange and ~~laugh along with me~~ enjoy.

Some of the results are just down right funny to me. To quote my niece, shuffle is the new magic 8 ball. It's Yoda wise.

Opening Credits:
2012: Air Force Ones by Nelly

Waking Up:
2012: We Are Family by Sister Sledge

First Day at School:
2012: Where Are You Going by Dave Matthews Band

Falling in Love:
2012: Best of My Love by The Emotions

Losing Virginity:
2012: Tequila Loves Me by Kenny Chesney

Fight Song:
2012: Heartbreak Town by Dixie Chicks

Breaking Up:
2012: Leaving Las Vegas by Sheryl Crow

Prom:
2012: Everybody Wants to Rule the World by Tears for Fears

Life:
2012: Take Me Away by John Legend

Mental Breakdown:
2012: Relator by Pete Yorn and Scarlett Johansson

Driving:
2012: Kill the Lights by Britney Spears

Flashback:
2012: Doin’ Time by Sublime

Getting Back Together:
2012: Live Your Life by T.I. feat. Rihanna

Wedding:
2012: Toes by Norah Jones

Birth of Child:
2012: Crying Shame by Jack Johnson

Final Battle:
2012: On the Floor by Jennifer Lopez feat. Pitbull

End Credits:
2012: The House is Rockin' by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble

Death:
2012: Baptism by Kenny Chesney and Randy Travis

Funeral:
2012: When It Hurts by Avant

Should you decide to play, let me know so I can come check you out.

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxo, Mo

Time

2011-12-31T06:06:00.000-08:00

52 weeks.

365 days.

12 months.

31, 536, 000 seconds.

Time.

Remember when you were a kid and you thought the day went on forever? Like it seemed it would never end?

I remember my mom saying to just wait until I got older and I would see differently. How right she was.

Now I see the days as short and the years flying by.

One thing is for sure. The calendar tells me today is December 31 and it is time to look forward to 2012.

I've mentioned before I am not a big resolutions for the New Year kind of girl.

This doesn't mean I don't have goals in mind but if you're looking for me to share 2012 resolutions with you, keep it moving.

No matter what you may have scheduled, the dawn of each day appears almost like a blank slate.

I choose to see each day as a chance for a new beginning.

I choose to see each day as an opportunity to make moves in a forward direction.

I choose to see each day as a day full of endless possibility - to love, to laugh, to be, to do, to believe, to walk in faith, to LIVE.

With that being said, I wish you and yours all things fabulous in 2012.

Happy New Year!

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxO, Mo

Mailbox Melange

2011-12-29T06:08:00.000-08:00

In the tech savvy world in which we live, I appreciate holding a magazine in my hand. Below are some of the ones I currently subscribe to.

I also get the Journey mag from Triple AAA, Paper Crafts, and the USAA mailer too. Quite the mish-mash, like my personality and interests. Because I like to think I'm fancy and am French/French-Canadian, I like to say melange.

I recycle once I am done so although they may be in paper, the footprint I leave behind is reduced.

I like People for pop culture and for entertainment.

Better Homes and Gardens is great for home and entertaining ideas.

Shop Smart gives sound advice and the research is thorough. One of the best parts is the research is done by a team of folks and not just me.

Success is inspirational, professionally and personally.

I wonder if there will ever come a day in which I eliminate all paper subscriptions.

That's crazy thinking.

Hey, I thought it was crazy talk to say I prefer an ebook reader over a book but I do so you never know. . . crazy things happen in my life. By choice. By chance.

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxO, Mo

Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-27T15:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day of 2011 found me in my rubber ducky pjs and Rudolph slippers with the kitteh.

This picture was snapped right before I settled in first thing in the morning with my bible to read the story of Jesus' birth, which is something I do every Christmas morning.

After all, it is the reason for the season.

The rest of the day I hibernated.

Yup, stayed inside all day. Didn't change out of my pjs. Read one of the newly downloaded books on Kenny and slept. Sure did. Slept.

This marks the do or die week for me, meaning all the hard work for the year can sour 2011 and 2012, so I need to be on the utmost top of my game.

I still have a bit of a cough and am tired but other than this, the worst of the crud is behind me. I am grateful for this.

Hope you and yours had a great holiday too.

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxO, Mo

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T08:51:00.000-08:00

From my house and heart to you and yours, I wish you a very Merry Christmas.

Friday Night

2011-12-23T22:34:00.000-08:00

Not the best picture but represents my Friday night perfectly.

Candles lit, whether by flame or battery, throughout the house.

Feel good TV. I watched the last hour of Fireproof and all of Facing the Giants via CMT.

Skyped with 2 of my favorite people.

Nommed on a slice of frozen pizza.

Enjoyed a mug of hot cocoa.

Took delight in the decorated Christmas tree to my right.

Snuggles with the kitteh.

Filled Kenny, my Kindle, back up with 6 books I have been wanting to read. Merry Christmas to me.

Now watching The Squeeze on MSNBC.

A very nice way to spend a Friday night in. Tiny slices of heaven on earth.

Peace, Love, Happiness, and Laughter. xOxo, Mo

Working Hard

2011-12-21T07:36:00.000-08:00

I am blessed to be able to telecommute.

Isn't modern technology grand?

Have laptop, internet connection, will work.

It can also be an evil. If you have all you need with you any time of the day or night, you might find yourself working more hours than you would if you were in the office.

Of course, this means productivity goes up.

Blah. Blah. Blah.

When I work from home and need the extra space, I take up residence on my craft table versus my desk, which is on the other side of the room.

Lucky likes to be a part of the action too.

She sleeps between the monitor and the keyboard.

She's such a nice kitteh to think of my needs. I mean she could stand right in front of the monitor or on the keyboard and demand attention but noooo, she's hard at ~~sleep~~ work right where you see her in the above picture.

She amazes me with the hours she will snooze in the same position. On a hard surface.

All in the name of Peace, Love, Happiness, and Laughter. xOxO, Mo

My Pee Pants

2011-12-19T15:13:00.000-08:00

Dictionary.com defines shame as
1. the painful feeling arising from the consciousness of something dishonorable, improper, ridiculous, etc., done by oneself or another: She was overcome with shame.

2. susceptibility to this feeling: to be without shame.

3. disgrace; ignominy: His actions brought shame upon his parents.

4. a fact or circumstance bringing disgrace or regret: The bankruptcy of the business was a shame. It was a shame you couldn't come with us.

My friends tell me I have no shame.

You'll see how this came about as a topic of conversation recently when I share a page from my book of life with you shortly.

I thought long and hard about this. What makes me feel shameful?

Not a lot is the conclusion I came to.

How is this so?

I own my actions.

I stand behind, in front of and with the words exiting my mouth I put into the universe.

I try not to have regrets or disgrace myself or others.

I am comfortable with my actions and with who I am.

'Tis true I do behave in ridiculous and in an improper manner from time to time but these actions don't bring me shame.

So, with this being said, when I made the pee pee pants -- totally sober, not ill, and in the parking lot of Costco Friday, Dec. 9th -- I knew I'd be sharing the story with my friends.

Yes, that is right. I, a woman closer to the age of 40 than not, made pee pee pants.

I had the day off from work. 4 cups of coffee and 48oz of water later while being out and about lead to my making of the pee pee pants.

After I took care of some bisnatch at home, I headed out to meet friends for lunch and to run some errands.

Keep this look in mind as the story progresses.

Upon arriving at their office, I used the restroom. At this point I was about 3.5 cups of coffee in.

We headed to lunch. This is where I didn't consume that much to drink. I was busy nomming on my naked chicken salad minus dressing, add the queso, pile on the pico goodness from Qdoba.

After a quick game of old school paper football with hand goals, we said our goodbyes and I headed to my crack house, Impress.

No bathroom break needed here. I knew I could wait until I made it to Ulta. Off I went in the car to Ulta, down the road and around the corner.

No problems here y'all. Just me sucking down the rest of the coffee and making the water a thing of the past.

Bathroom break at Ulta. Supplies re-stocked and off to Costco I go.

I zoom through the aisles getting what I need. As I stand in line to check out I realize I need to tinkle. I think to myself I can hold it until I get home. There is no one to watch my cart if I go to the bathroom here. Yeah, I can hold it.

I have a bladder of steel.

Be the bladder of steel.

There I am. Finished checking out. Wishing the lady looking over my receipt would quit fawning over my new faux fur blanket, the screaming hot deal on a hot and cold laminator, and just let me go.

Can't she see by the look on my face I need to pee?

Oh yeah, that's right. I have a bladder of steel and can hold. it. Be the bladder of steel.

Finally, I make it to my car. I say finally because I went down the wrong aisle, couldn't squeeze the cart through the cars (tried twice between two sets of vehicles), and ended up having to add more I can hold it, I can hold it thoughts to myself as I went back up the aisle only to come down another parking lot aisle, and arrive at my car.

I unlock the trunk. I position the cart to block me in like any sane, single girl does.

Slowly I begin to unload the grocery cart of goodies.

Keep in mind I am now crossing my legs, squeezing my bladder, saying hold it hold it hold it hold it and attempting to be the bladder of steel.

Then it happens. A tiny trickle. I think to myself, "I got this." Bladder of steel. Unload. Get home.

Keep unloading. More hold it hold it hold HOLD IT. . . and darn, there it goes.

The gates opened. I had no choice than to let it go. The bladder of steel lives here no more.

I sat on my bumper and politely made the pee pants with the above smile on my face as seen in the picture taken before I headed out.

Wait, I thought to myself. You're wearing sweater Uggs. You must protect the Uggs.

Yes folks, that was a real thought, Priorities.  You'd be proud to know I have skills worthy of doing just that. All you have to do is squat a little bit, press thighs and knees together, extend your feet shoulder width apart and you too can save your sweater Uggs from the pee pee.

So, as I am sitting on my bumper in said stance, I notice my pee is Moutain Dew yellow. Oh yeah, that's right. I took the B100 later in the day. If anyone looks my way I can always act like I spilled a Mountain Dew. Yeah, yeah, that's it. I spilled Mountain Dew.

Once I finished doing my business, which obviously I couldn't hold, I put the cart away, grabbed the blanket from the back seat, and drove myself home. In my pee pants.

Upon arrival home, shower, change of clothes, and no feelings of shame.

The bladder of steel doesn't live here.

Upon sharing the story with my W2 crew after our Saturday AM exercise, I was gifted with a pee saver for the next time I think I can hold it.

You pee in the sack and it turns it to a gel like substance. I hear you can get them at auto supply stores. I might need to get more than just this one seeing as we all know there will be a next time I think I can hold it.

Hey, do the stripes on my gloves and hat make me look big?

Peace, Love, Laughter. xOxO, Mo

Under the Weather

2011-12-14T15:05:00.000-08:00

Sunday I fell asleep reading the paper with the kitteh on my lap.

I should have known then I was in for a special surprise. The kind that brings the aches, the chills, the fever . . . the sickness.

I never fall asleep reading the paper in the den, on the love seat, and stay that way for a few hours.

Guess I can't say never since it happened Sunday.

Fast forward to Monday. Headaches. No appetite. Only want to sleep. Hurts to swallow. Ears are tender.

I pushed through Monday like a champ and took Dayquil and the ever so handy Nyquil before bed Monday.

At some point in the middle of the night I woke up drenched in sweat. Not a little. DRENCHED.

Yup, quickly made an appointment to see the doctor Tuesday afternoon right after my 7:00 AM conference call.

At the appointment in the afternoon, as she felt my my nodes and stated the words wow. I knew I was in for a special treat.

Let's draw some blood to see if you have mono and hey open wide and say ahh so I can stick this swab down your throat and watch you gag in discomfort.

Good times.

Really though. So far so good. It's not mono. I go back Friday for another blood draw just to be safe since my white blood cell count was extremely elevated.

For now I sound horrible, feel worse, have made the kitteh learn patience as she wants to play and any time I lean down for her toy, the room spins and my head pounds.

I'm trying to stay hydrated but gosh darn does it ever hurt to swallow. No fever but I am alternating between being just right and cold.

Yay me.

It truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Happiness. xOxO Mo

Here

2011-12-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

Hi.

I am here.

If you are reading this, you are too.

I know I have been absent from my blog for far too long.

I have no excuses.

I've been busy.

Busy living.

Busy loving.

Busy laughing.

Busy investing in me.

Which made me realize an investment in me is my blog. That's why I started it to begin with.

To document.

To share.

To welcome others to my itsy bitsy teeny weeny part of the world in which I not only survive but thrive in.

So, yes, I am here.

I am BACK.

My self imposed goal is a minimum of 3 entries per week.

Stay tuned.

Y'all come on back now ya' hear.

Peace, Love, Happiness. xOxO, Mo

Lucky's Babies

2011-08-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

Meet Thumper.

This is Lucky's favorite toy.

Yes, it has catnip in it. Think of a kong for a dog and that's what Thumper is, except all soft and fuzzy filled with catnip.

Don't judge her just because she carries Thumper around like it is her baby or judge me as I have a brand spanking new Thumper in a drawer just in case something happens to this one.

I mean seriously. The nip is legal. The nip is encouraged by her vet.

The nip is gooood.

Thumper used to come to bed with us every night.

Lucky used to sleep with me every night too but lately she has taken to the chaise lounge in the den.

I can count on being woken up between 3:24 AM and 4:16 AM daily. This is when she brings Thumper to the bed. She's all excited and is ready to play. Saying no is not an option. I could close the bedroom door at night but I only do so when company is over.

We have taught one another how to play fetch. It is quite delightful and makes those early morning play sessions bearable.

I'm glad her Auntie Kari picked her up a teddy bear toy we call Pookie one night we were at the pet store getting her a kitty condo aka scratching post/nesting thing.

Pookie was the original and how I knew to look for Thumper.

Pookie gets his fair share of ~~abuse~~ love too but Thumper is her go to baby. I believe it has do with the ears being easier for her to carry in her mouth than Pookie's big head.

I'd love to show you a picture of Thumper these days, as she is worse for wear, but as I type this, Lucky is showing her baby she is the boss. She's been playing non stop for about one hour this morning.

I put fresh nip in the back of both babies last night so it makes sense she would be in it to win it this morning.

Who knew a one year old kitteh would like a stuffed tiny toy better than a string or a ball to play with? Not me that is for sure.

God bless her little catnip enhanced fur ball self.

Peace, Love, Laughter and Soul Y'all.

I Want, I Want

2011-08-23T12:06:00.000-07:00

I came across a graphic t shirt website the other day. I don't wear t shirts that often but when I do, I like to have fun with some of them.

Below are some I saw recently on this website that speak to me.

These are shirts that want to become one with me.

In no particular order . . .

Should you desire to hook me up with one, I like my shirts on the ~~big and~~ comfy size.

Peace, Love, Happiness, and Soul Y'all.

I Shall Call It

2011-07-20T09:07:00.000-07:00

I shall call the latest abstract Repricing.

See, when I have things I need to work out and I get frustrated or hit a wall, a creative outlet is necessary for me to process and eventually move forward.

Yesterday was one of those days.

This is nothing spectacular by any means.

It's a previously painted canvas I painted over. Added a few dimensional elements and called it good.

The rhythmic motion of the putting the brush against the canvas and then letting whatever I feel like doing to the base coat calms me.

I may not have figured out everything I need to do but I certainly felt better after I took paint to the brush and the brush to the canvas.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Summa' Time

2011-07-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

We finally had a day with the temps in the 80s.

Today not so much. Today finds us with cloudy skies, some rain showers, and a high possibly in the 70s.

However, the fans are in full effect and it stays light until about 9:10 each day so I'll take that as our version of summer this year.

With that being said, in the summer I take my hair to a lighter hue. I add more highlights and warm tones.

This year is no exception as evidenced by the picture to the left.

It's pretty close to the color I naturally had in Texas during the spring and summer so all is right in the world of my hair these days.

Hope the same is true for you and yours.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Penchant for Observation

2011-07-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

As I took an early lunch break on my first day back to the grind (re: returning from vacation), I decided to update my Netflix instant queue.

The obvious made itself visible.

I have a penchant for documentaries.

This is nothing new to me. I have always been intrigued by observation - whether it be people watching, reality tv, or non fiction books.

I enjoy fiction, drama, and comedies too but I'm drawn to non fiction.

Human nature, in a word, is intriguing; at least to me it is.

I appreciate how a non fiction work can broaden my horizons, educate me, open myself up to a whole other world I might not have been exposed to otherwise, stretches my imagination, and reveals possibilities.

Gee, I wonder why I originally pursued sociology and social work in college.

So, it makes perfect sense when I look over my instant queue and notice 56% of my selections are documentaries.

I wonder which one I will watch first. . .

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Little Engine

2011-06-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

I'm on vacation this week.

I usually always take this week off.

Why?

It's the week before the 4th. In my line of business, this is a slow time of the year for me but hella busy for the folks I work with.

Some may even go as far as to say this is their busiest week of the year. My busy time is considered their slow time of the year.

I know this may sound confusing but if you know what I do, which company I work for, and who I support daily it would make perfect sense.

So, this is the week I stay home, take it easy, and do all those honey do and chores the rest of the world gets to do during the first half of the year.

It's hard to do a whole heck of a lot of home organization and honey do-das when I'm away as much as I am the first half of the year.

With that being said, the beginning of today found me in the yard.

That's not a picture of my grass or my lawn mower.

The lawn mower is red though. I affectionately call it Little Red. We don't have Bermuda grass in the Pacific Northwest.

Sadly, Little Red was not the little engine that could today.

He made it through the front yard and one tiny row in the back yard before conking out on me.

Little Red needs some loving.

Loving I am not capable of providing.

My housemate, who grew up summering on a family's ranch, can provide that kind of loving.

I feel slightly inferior but know and recognize my limitations.

I am not mechanically inclined. The fact I was able to prune the rose bushes and remove 15 year old+ ivy from part of the wall, digging up some of the roots mind you, made me feel better about my lack of Little Red loving skills.

Filling up the large size compost bin with the ivy, yard clippings, and other yard "waste" left me feeling sweaty, grungy, and accomplished.

You gotta celebrate the small successes in life right?

Right.

Yay me!

The rest of the day will find me organizing a closet or two. I foresee a trip to the Goodwill donation center in my crystal ball.

Or maybe I will bust out the paint, a canvas, some stamps and ink, or chillax with my nose behind Kenny with the kitteh in my lap.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Chocolate Cures All?

2011-06-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

About 15 minutes ago I was in a panic.

Heart racing.

Breathing was fast and furious.

I was picking my left thumb cuticle.

Purse was turned upside down and inside out.

Desk drawer emptied.

Mind in a frenzy.

Why was I in such a state?

I thought I had misplaced a necessary financial record of the personal nature.

I remembered I had Hershey's bars in the kitchen.

One must always have s'mores ingredients on hand this time of the year.

I made my way to the kitchen. Opened the cabinet. Unwrapped the bar and took a deep breath. Broke off the first row. While stuffing a few pieces in my mouth I asked myself, "If it is lost, I can deal with the situation how? Think Mo, think."

I made my way around the corner, down the hall, and back to the office. Candy bar in hand, I opened the same desk drawer, pulled a few things out, and viola - there was the missing financial record.

Devouring the bar might not have been what allowed me to find the item but it sure did calm my anxiety, for about 45 seconds or so.

Now I have to add an extra 5-10 minutes of the treadmill to the mix to accommodate the indulgence and remember to restock the Hershey's. At least I'm somewhat calm again and have the "missing" item in my possession.

Chocolate. It's a cure all.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Photo courtesy of this website.

Meet Lucky

2011-06-22T17:47:00.000-07:00

Lucky is the newest member of my family.

She is an one year old, medium hair kitteh I adopted Friday night.

Her name was Gabby. It was a nice enough name but didn't seem to fit.

She does meow at ya' but nowhere near enough to earn the name Gabby in my opinion.

It took me about 3.5 days to find a name I liked.

Lucky fits as I am lucky to have found her and she is lucky to have found me.

Some of you may know and remember the very unfortunate situation surrounding the passing of my baby Princess in late July of 2010.

It's taken me this long to be ready to let another fur baby in my life.

I went to the foster store with my bestie and her hubby to sneek a peak at another cat but Lucky is the one I came home with.

We even had plans to visit other locations that night and the next day but when I locked eyes with this sweet pea, it was game over.

She is the perfect blend of my other 2 kittehs, Princess and Jasmine, in personality and body type plus having her own special something too.

Put all of this together and Lucky is her name-o.

Her alter ego is Cocoa Loco and her affectionate nickname is Boo Boo.

She is a snuggler, a head butter, a suckler, a kneader, a playful spaz who likes to check out everything and enjoys licking ice in iced coffee <-- go figure.

I am sure as the days progress I'll find out more about her but for now, we're in the get to know you stage and are as content as content can be. I also hope to get better pictures of her. This one was taken from across the room in Bevo's Den on the sly. She's either camera shy or is playing hard to get. Either way, game on darlin'!

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

In Bloom

2011-06-16T19:15:00.000-07:00

'Tis true this picture was taken June 4, 2010.

However, the front yard roses are bloom currently.

I haven't gotten around to clipping any for viewing pleasure and delight inside - yet.

More bloomed this year than last so far so I have quite the selection to choose from - both color and type wise.

I hope you're in bloom in too. Life's too short not to be.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

My Thoughts Exactly

2011-06-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine shared this as a wall post on her Facebook account.

I have since done the same.

Then I decided to share it here too.

Speaks volumes to me.

Peace, Love, and Happiness.

GD Slackers

2011-06-10T14:32:00.000-07:00

Translation:

Feel free to use my shizzle.

Don't piss off the Whizzle aka MoW (Mo Dub).

Hope you had a great day.

You better not have f*cked anything up.

Cause Mo don't play.

Now it's time to be on your way.

Don't let the door hit ya' where the good Lord split ya'!

Thanks to JLo and Tiff for making this a reality.

Of Late

2011-05-16T05:22:00.000-07:00

Another week has arrived.

Another week finds me flying the friendly skies.

I'm heading east again this week.

Over the mountains and to somewhat wide open spaces.

When I arrive home it will be to a couple of friends in from out of town + a week of previously planned vacation.

I'm not going anywhere for this vacation. I'll be staying close to home and loving every last minute of it.

I have a few projects around the hizzle I want to complete and down time to embrace.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

I'm a Big Girl Now

2011-05-12T11:16:00.000-07:00

Meet Billy.

How did I come about this decision?

After 2 trips to the Starbucks down the street in one day I decided I had enough. It was time.

It was time to finally have a coffee maker in the house.

I'm a tea drinker.

Rather I should say, I was one.

Don't get me wrong. I'll still drink tea.

It's just now I'll be drinking coffee and making dirty chais at home without paying out the arse for two shots of espresso.

Billy IS a bad ass. Hence, the name Billy. You know for when people say Billy Badass.

He rocks my socks off.

I'll go as far as to say I'm in love with him.

He's already shown me the investment of his purchase was well worth it.

The girly part of me said get the stainless steel one for aesthetics. Plus, this model comes with all the attachments built in versus buying add ons.

With over 200 K cups to choose from, I invite you to come over for a cup or two.

Peace, Love, and Soul Y'all.

Jesus is the Reason but . . .

2011-04-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

Jesus is the reason but those of you who know me knew an item like this would appear for the weekend.

Yes, I am also wearing this in the office and will be sporting it through both the Spokane and Seattle airports later today.

I've already had spontaneous conversations at the hotel and Starbucks this AM. The rest of the day should hold even more looks and commentary.

Happy Easter to you and yours.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

OTRA

2011-04-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

Heading back out to fly the friendly skies again today.

Going to the Big D, which is where I was bred, born, and raised.

Thankfully I get to squeeze in a little bit of family time before the meetings begin.

Hope you and yours have a great week.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Shellac

2011-04-03T23:17:00.000-07:00

Those of you who see me in person know my nails sadly can and often are a hot mess.

My hands and nails take a beating with the work I do, the travel, the time spent on a computer, texting, and the time spent pursuing my creative endeavors.

I have weak nails to begin with; even my toe nails break easily!

Saturday I went for my twice a month manicure. I threw in a pedicure too.

My lady asked if I wanted a shellac manicure.

Other than being asked if I wanted one about a two months ago I wasn't quite sure what a shellac manicure was but I said yes without giving it a second thought.

When she told me the color would stay for at least 2 weeks I was sold for sure. Sign me up for a shellac-ing!

My nails tend to do a lot better when protected by a bit of polish.

My thoughts were What do I have to lose? Maybe a few extra dollars. What do I have to gain? Pretty, stronger nails for more than a few days.

Let's do this.

I am only on day 2 but so far so good.

All the internet reports and facebook replies have indicated this process will and does work. The polish will last. Since there is no buffing involved, my nails should be stronger.

Usually by now at least one of my nails would be showing signs of wear and tear so to speak. Not tonight! They look like I just left the salon.

If it holds and withstands the hype, I know there will be no going back for me.

Feel free to read about it here, here, and here.

NOTE: first two links are testimonials and the last link is the official CND Shellac website.

Oh and the color I'm sporting is a pale pink. Maybe I'll go bolder the next time around.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Photo courtesy of http://www.alllacqueredup.com/

What the Flock?

2011-03-31T12:26:00.000-07:00

JoAnns 50% off a regular priced item + 25% off entire purchase had me jumping for joy at the purchase of this flock.

I've never used flock before. I have admired the usage of it on projects. I figure a little bit of glue, the sprinkle of some flock and I'll be good to go.

I have an Easter card in my mind's eye in which the yellow flock will be perfect.

Now I just need to make the time to mass produce the project. I've marked down the evening of April 9th should any of you wish to come and play.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Kenny and Me

2011-03-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

I love, love, love my Kindle2.

I am so very glad I purchased it back in the day.

For the time being I see no reason to upgrade to the K3 or to get an iPad, unless my fairy godmother or secret admirer would like to bestow one to me.

What I do see the need for is, is the need to read.

I am almost finished with Love You More by Lisa Gardner and Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua.

The latest purchases downloaded for the next few weeks in travel and down time include

The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly

Heaven is For Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back by Todd Burpo

Live Wire by Harlan Coben

I pre-ordered 10th Anniversary by James Patterson

Have you read a good book lately?

Do share if so. I am always on the lookout for a good read.

I prefer to be able to download it as I have become accustomed to the slimness of the Kindle versus the bulk of a book.

Funny how I thought this would be one of the things I missed most about reading on an e-reader -- the holding of a book and flipping the pages.

When I get the hankering to do so, I can always visit a bookstore or walk over to my bookshelf in the office or Bevo's Den.

So, hit me with it. Leave a comment with a recommendation.

Please and Thank You.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Here I Go Again

2011-03-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

Here I go again!

3 day tour.

2 states.

Travel by air and car.

Send the vibes.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Slow My Roll

2011-03-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

For the second time, in less than 3 months, I have locked my keys in the car outside of Target.

I definitely need to slow my roll.

Let's set the stage shall we.

I have a routine for each Saturday morning. It starts off with a chai tea latte of course.

Then I go for a massage followed by a chiropractic adjustment. Every 6 weeks I get my hair cut and colored. Every 3 weeks I get my brows done. In between those appointments are the errands I need to take care of.

Normally I would take care of these errands during the week.  Doing so is challenging when I am out of town so I am usually running around like a mad woman going from one place to the next in a rush each Saturday.

I schedule appointments with travel time and roughly a ten minute break in between - if I am lucky. I am usually out and about for 12 hours.

This past Saturday looked like this:
Wake at 0715.

Make the pee pee.

Shuffle to kitchen. Fishy kiss Reggie and Spike. Make chai tea.

Shuffle back to bathroom. Shower. Throw on lotion, clothes, makeup.

Head out to massage. Finish punishing but much needed massage.

After massage stop by Office Depot. Scowl when discovered they are out of the sheet protector/insert I was in search of. Leave empty handed.

Drive across street to gas station for bag of chili cheese Fritos for chiropractor and a drink for me.

Get an adjustment. Good crack-a-lackings.

Drive through Arbys for a mini sammich.

Head to salon for cut and color. Sparkles be gone.

Check to see if Pier 1 has the room spray in stock yet. No such luck. Leave empty handed.

Head over to JoAnns and PetCo for flock and fish food.

Meet BFF for pho at our joint.

Head to Home Depot in search of flowers for the planters. Leave empty handed.

Finish errands at Target.

Determine keys are locked in the car of Target's parking lot.

Call housemate to the rescue as extra set of keys is at home.

No answer.

Attempt to call cab companies, yes multiple cab companies, to get a ride.

Call housemate. He answers. Holla!

Cancel cab ride.

Move cart of stuff from parking lot to entrance of Target. Wait for housemate to arrive.

Resemble homeless folks with full cart of stuff with both the BFF and I eating movie snackies from the cart.

BFF plays music and begins to brainstorm as to how we can panhandle to pass the time. Laughs ensued.

Housemate arrives.

Head home. Change clothes, get out Snuggies, and watch The Social Network.

Hug BFF goodbye and call it a night.

I really need to pay better attention to my get out of the car routine apparently. Either that or I need to stop shopping at Target as this is the exact same location I locked my keys in the car at last time.

On the list of errands this week/weekend? Get extra car keys made.

At this stage of my life's game, I find this to be a necessity.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul y'all.

Afternoon Delight

2011-03-25T16:01:00.000-07:00

I have been re-introduced to a sweet treat recently.

It has become an afternoon delight for myself and a few co-workers.

'Tis true we don't need the sugar but it sure does hit the spot.

The interesting thing to me is growing up in Texas you could literally find a Slurpee or slushie around every corner.

Where I live now . . . not so much.

I suppose that might be part of the allure.

Let the hunting commence!

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Daily Dose

2011-03-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

Do you take vitamins daily?

How about herbal supplements?

Fiber?

I do.

2 Omega 3 gummies. 1 wellness formula, which is like a multivitamin on steroids. 2 probiotics. 1 calcium. 1 vitamin D3. 2 psyllium fiber capsules taken 2x a day. 1 B50 complex.

Yup, yup. I shove those bad boys down my throat daily, usually right after I finish eating breakfast.

I can be quite the sight at a hotel breakfast table.

Go on ahead and lookie loo people.

My health is important to me. I don't get to eat or rest the way I prefer while I am on the road so this daily dose is my way of taking control and being preventive.

Monday I had my yearly and physical appointments.

My blood pressure is perfect according to the doc.

The first round of results on my blood work came back with 2 thumbs up status.

I'm feeling pretty good about this, all things considered.

Do yourself a favor. Take control of your health and wellness. You deserve it.

Really you do.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

OTRA

2011-03-22T00:23:00.000-07:00

Heading out on a 3 day tour.

Little bit of time in the air.

Lots of time in the car.

Send save travel vibes my way.

Please and thank you.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Living on the Go

2011-03-19T11:46:00.000-07:00

Hi there.

It's been a hot minute since I posted a blog entry.

I think to do so often but finding the time has been difficult.

Let me back up since that is not an entirely truthful statement.

It is more about making the time.

I am a firm believer we make time for the people and things that are important to us.

For instance, those of you who know me know I am not a morning person.

So to set my alarm an extra hour early St. Patrick's day to bust out handmade cards for my work peeps, in a hotel (I prepacked the paper, stamps, ink, cutter, cleaner, sharpies, and signature stamp) means it was important for me to do so.

They were not my best work but everyone seemed to like them regardless. That's the point. I made the time to spread a bit of love and cheer to those near and dear.

That little tidbit of last week leads me to this - I'm going to try and do better to post while I am canvassing the Pacific Northwest one trip at a time.

These days I am away more than I am home but hey, it is how I roll. After all, this way of life was the iinspiration for the blog name years ago. I live my life on the go. No complaints. It is how I do.

I can get it all done, if I choose to do so.

Oh, and in case you are wondering I did sport the above headband St. Patrick's day along with a shamrock tie and these

None of my greens matched. I didn't care. Nope, not one bit.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

How I Roll

2011-02-08T22:52:00.000-08:00

A common sight when I'm working.

Non sweetened black ice tea -- check.

Laptop up and running -- check, check.

Twistable map pencils and coloring book for a grown up time out Mo style -- check, check, and CHECK!

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Full of It

2011-02-01T11:01:00.000-08:00

I have not lost my optimism.

What I have gained, along with the optimism, is a large dose of realism.

My calendar has been and will continue to be full.

More than glass half full. Somewhat overflowing one might say if they were to see my calendar, both professionally and personally.

It is all good.

I'm full of it.

Life that is.

I'm making the most of what is put before me each day. No excuses. No whining.

I'm doing what I need and want to do because honestly, there is only one life we are promised - that we know of.

I have lots of blogs to catch up on and even more posts to do.

I'm going to do my best to make both of those a reality in the coming days.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Differences Make the World Go Round

2011-01-24T17:36:00.000-08:00

By now you pretty much know what my eye is drawn toward.

It should be fairly easy to determine which set of dishes I would choose.

Did you pick the top left? The square plain white ones?

One of my besties would snap up the bottom right.

Gee, I wonder which one Mo would choose?

Yup, the one on the left. It's in my office/crafty room as matter of fact.

If you guessed the one on the right for me and the one on the left for her, you'd be spot on.

Pretty much when we buy things for each other we know to select the opposite of what our natural eye is drawn toward.

Winner, winner. . .chicken dinner!

How about you? Do you and your bestie or besties have opposite tastes?

I'm glad we do as it makes life interesting and keeps a fresh perspective on the world.

It could become mundane if we liked the exact same things.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Vacation Art

2011-01-21T13:13:00.000-08:00

I needed to paint a canvas for one of the walls in the guest bedroom.

Started with charcoal, then moved on to rain grey, added metallic silver, brushed some more charcoal and called it good for the background.

I put some charcoal on a chai tea latte can lid and pressed it to the canvas.

Drizzled some sand on the corner.

And down the left side of the canvas.

Bittersweet orange added to the lid and pressed to the canvas.

Drizzled some more sand down the side.

Grabbed a can of kitty food for the smaller circle in sand. Pressed to the canvas.

Grabbed the bottom of the chai tea latte can, added bittersweet orange, and pressed it to the canvas.

I kept wanting to add white feathers to the canvas but finally decided against it.

In keeping with the circle theme, I added a computer fan part to the canvas and decided this piece was done.

If you stay in the guest bedroom and pay attention to small details, you'll notice this computer fan part matches the coaster I made on the nightstand.

The newly decorated guest bedroom post will soon follow. It will then make sense as to why this color combination was chosen for the canvas.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Recycle Craftiness in da Hizzle

2011-01-14T10:38:00.000-08:00

One day I was walking through the office and saw a sign letting me know free computer parts for the taking were available in the break room.

I went by to see if there was anything I could incorporate in an crafty project.

I saw 2 of these.

My first thought was it would make a cool stencil for a painting or even something cool to glue on a finished painting.

My next thought was how about coasters for the guest bedroom?

Yeah boy, let's get to it.

First I found a piece of scrap leather from Michaels.

Then I cut it to size.

How am I going to get holes punched in the leather I asked myself.

Oh, I know, I'll use one of my handy dandy crafty punches.

The next question is will I use a needle and thread or rivets?

Please.

You saw the rivets coming a mile away didn't you?

I pounded the rivets in with a hammer.

Oooh, pretty and stress management too!

Ok, so I got a little hammer happy with one or two of the rivets but I am happy with the finished project.

I decided to only make one coaster and keep the other one for a stencil. I have plenty of coasters laying around the hizzle if more are needed in the guest bedroom.

I'm taking a few days of vacation next week so there is no telling what else I may find or create.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

January 11, 2011

2011-01-13T13:48:00.000-08:00

According to news reports, 49 of the 50 states measured snow fall. Only Florida was without some of the winter goodness.

We were no exception.

Snow flakes are falling on the deck. . .

Snow flakes are falling in the trees . . .

Burl is covered in fluff. . .

A winter wonderland from the front balcony. . .

Hi winter. Not only do I see you, but I feel you too.

In the meadow we can build a snowman!

Well, at least that night we could have. Today we are back to gray skies, wind, and rain.

How's the weather where you are?

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

My Space - My Bathroom

2011-01-12T17:42:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the final room of the part of the house in which I dwell.

My bathroom.

The place where the magic really does happen.

If you are in the bed and look to your left, this is what you'll see.

It gets amazing light, which can and eventually, did lead to a challenge for light sensitive me.

I was all good until late fall and then I had to add a curtain.

Let me just say I was blinded by the light while on the throne one too many times.

So, although I didn't originally intend on having a curtain in here, I feel it adds a nice finishing touch to the quarter bathroom.

Feel free to laugh as it took me about 45 minutes in the aisle of Target to decide on this curtain. I wasn't sure it would match the sink. Yes, 45 minutes of standing in the aisle looking at this curtain and another one. Finally I decided to buy this one and return if needed.

Oooh, let there be light. On a dimmer. Only three spots in the hizzle don't have dimmer switches - the hall, the entry stairs, and Bevo's Den.

I have a thing with white towels, as you can see.

I am firm believer every bathroom you spend an extended period of time is deserving of a clock.

Looking at this picture one might think I should hang the clock a bit higher but when there is a towel or two on the rack it looks evenly spaced.

Now the reason why I say this is where the magic happens is because of the above and below pictures.

Above is my throne, the toilet, and below is the shower I get fresh and clean in.

I do my makeup either in my bedroom or facing this, my double sided mirrored medicine cabinet.

When I first bought the medicine cabinet, at Big Lots by the way, and hung it on the wall, I was a little dumbfounded as to why the inside would be mirrored too.

Now? Now I couldn't imagine it NOT having a mirror inside.

Remember the amazing light I referred to earlier from the window?

It is great for makeup application, tweezing, etc..

Everyone get excited. You've just peeked inside the forbidden peeking place, the medicine cabinet.

I hope you have enjoyed the tour of my home.

It truly is my a retreat and sanctuary for me. I hope yours is the same.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

My Space - My Sanctuary

2011-01-05T06:33:00.000-08:00

I could say something really cheesy like welcome to my bedroom, the place where magic happens but I won't.

Instead, I invite you to the most personal space in my home.

What you see peeking around the door in the above picture is one of my Rudolph slippers.

Aren't they freaking adorable?

I think so. Warm and fuzzy too.

Ta Da. My bed.

I have a tendency to be made fun of quite often as it is just me who sleeps on the memory foam, high thread count sheets, with 7 pillows, an ultra suede down comforter at the foot of the bed, and another down comforter with yet another ultra suede duvet cover on the bed.

I've been told my bed is complicated.

I've been told 7 pillows is a bit much, which for the record I sleep with 2, and rotate them weekly so the wear is even. When I read in bed, I use 3 of them.

I've been told 2 down comforters is not necessary. One is lighter than the other. Some nights are cooler than others. It's necessary for me.

I say poop on the naysayers.

My bed. My way.

You can probably tell which side of the bed I sleep on as the duvet is flatter and the nightstand is next to that side of the bed.

That is indeed a teddy bear you see laying on its back. Spooky is my nightly companion along with Mr. Sandman.

My brother Roger gave him to me as a present many, many years ago. He looks worse for wear but he's precious to me and I like to snuggle with him at night.

Oooh, look a pretty picture from Ikea with some of my absolutely all time favorite colors. Seeing that abstract painting makes me happy and soothes my soul. Call me crazy but it does. Isn't that what art should do for you?

Behind the ultra suede chocolate brown black out curtains is the same type of window with wooden blinds as in the office/crafty room.

I prefer my room to be dark when I sleep. Also, when the bed was placed underneath the window the room looked unbalanced so I decided to curtain off half of the wall.

Whoopsie, forgot to put the Uggs back in the closet. That's a normal occurrence too; to leave a pair of shoes in the above spot versus putting them in closet that is.

Here's my nightstand and what you'll find on it pretty much every day I am home.

The lamp is a touch lamp with 3 settings, the iHome alarm clock, a leather charging station, a cordless phone, a battery operated candle, and my beloved Kindle2 aka Kenny.

The remote control is for the fan, which is behind the door year round. The middle section is reserved for my crackberry at night or to charge Kenny when needed. The third section holds the TV remote control sometimes. More often than not, the TV remote control and cable box remote control are in the second nightstand drawer and this section of the charger is empty.

The long section of the charging station is a mish mash of the earrings I've worn for the last couple of days, a nail file, a bookmark, and one of the candles that sounds like a crackling fire when lit.

Did you notice the insulated Starbucks "glass" in an earlier picture? That's my best friend when I am not traveling or I have traveled by car versus air. It resides on the monogrammed coaster because I am anal like that.

Directly across from the bed and nightstand is the bathroom, which you'll see tomorrow.

Behold the tall 5 drawer dresser with large HD flat screen on top.

Next to the dresser you'll find the year round fan, a towels only hamper, and three hats not worthy of being squished in with all the others.

Hanging from the door are the lotions and body spray I use on a daily basis in a silver mesh bag.

Once you make your way past the door, the closet greets you.

Thank goodness I can't see without my contacts in or else waking up to seeing crazy bedhead first thing in the morning might be a little much for me to handle.

So, there you have it. My bedroom. My sanctuary.

Tomorrow the tour comes to an end. We have one room remaining, which is my quarter bathroom. This my friends is where the magic really does happen.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

My Space - Crafty, Office Goodness

2011-01-04T06:55:00.000-08:00

Today finds us in the room I spend a lot of time in.

Welcome to my crafty space and home office.

This is also the room my laundry hampers, yes hampers, are in.

The first one at the bottom left of the picture is for darks. The smaller and open faced matching ones are on the other side of the table and are for my lights and delicates.

Above is a dry erasable calendar. My personal appointments, events, and out of town trips are what you'll find noted here.

The table is where I make my cards and bust a crafty vibe.

You might have noticed the old school fax machine on the floor. It is still being used as I have not been able to figure the proper way to have the fax, copier, scanner, and printer work fax style yet. I am going to have to call in the big gun aka J-Lo for that.

I have the blessing and luxury to be able to work from home some days. When those days are a part of my schedule, you'll find me here with my butt planted firmly in the chair.

When I need a moment to reflect or decompress I should say, I either look out the window or turn to the right to see this.

I like to think of the endless possibilities a tree lined path can offer.

The cork board contains little bits of things and pictures which speak to my inner being. Nothing particularly earth shattering and definitely not a vision board, just bits of life I love.

From the window I see lots of birds, raccoons walking the fence, and on a clear day when the trees are bare, I eye spy a view of Dumas Bay.
I store my crafty, creative items in this.

Paper, adhesives, glitter, punches, stamps, ink, paint, etc. oh my!

Directly across the hall from the office and crafty space is my bedroom.

See you there tomorrow.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

My Space - Work in Progress

2011-01-03T05:59:00.000-08:00

The guest bedroom is what I refer to as a work in progress.

Don't get me wrong. It's ready for company but it is not decorated how I would like it to be. Not yet at least.

I did have a roommate who occupied this room for about 3.5 months. Circumstances, which I may talk about one day, led to her moving out. Hence, the room became a guest bedroom.

So, for now this is what awaits you, when the aerobed is inflated and made that is.

High thread count sheets with one extra super firm and one medium firmness pillow.

The blanket is super warm and fuzzy, which is comfort in itself, especially on a cool aerobed.

If you come for an overnight visit, I will lay out your very own towels and tie a bow around them just because.

Since the current bed is so low, the nightstands I have in the garage currently would be too tall. Therefore, I made a makeshift nightstand.

It is a cardboard box with a fleece blanket draped over it.

The nightstand holds a coaster, a bottle of relaxation linen spray, a travel size lotion, a lightly scented vanilla candle, an alarm clock, and a magazine.

Since this was set up for Fiwa's weekend visit in December, a Charlie Brown Christmas tree was added.

More often than not on weekends you'll also find delicates drying in this room.

I keep forgetting to put the kitty litter box back in the garage. It was drying the pine cones I bleached for the post Christmas door wreath.

When the roommate moved out, she left the curtain rod up. I already know what curtains I want to hang here.

So, there you have it. The guest bedroom in its infancy stages.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Weekly Challenge #130

2011-01-02T17:44:00.000-08:00

First of all, Happy New Year to you and yours!

New year, new you seems to be the theme around the New Year's holiday.

Do I make resolutions?

No.

I stopped doing so years ago as I prefer to think of each new day as a chance to embrace changes I want to make, whether they be big or small.

My mindset is I don't need the change of a calendar year to make changes or resolutions to become the person I want to be.

This doesn't mean I don't respect those who choose to make resolutions. I do.

To each his or her own.

This leads me to this week's challenge.

Embrace whatever you choose, As Janis Joplin said, "Don't compromise yourself. You are all you've got."

Stay true to what works to you.

Heady for a weekly challenge but seems fitting today.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

My Space - The Guest Bathroom

2010-12-31T16:43:00.000-08:00

By now you've seen I have a thing with clean lines, stainless steel/silver, craft a lot of my home decor, and prefer to decorate with simplicity.

The guest bathroom is no different.

A plain white waffle weave shower curtain.

A white and ice blue abstract bathroom rug, that needs to be washed right about now.

The shelf above the toilet.

What is it about that word toilet that sounds blech? Did you know in all the airports I travel through DFW is the only one labeling the restrooms with a sign that says toilet? Yeah, toilet.

The framed Giggle picture is a matted frame from JoAnns, a piece of card stock, and a rub on.

Oooh, look who brought more of the outside in? A few twigs from the yard, some brown ribbon, and viola.

Behold! Another stainless steel trashcan.

When you walk into the bathroom, this is the wall to your left, which is directly across from mirrored medicine cabinets.

Yup, made all these too.

The wish and dare to dream picture are the same as the giggle; card stock, a rub on, and a matted frame from JoAnns, on sale naturally.

The canvas is a couple different coats of acrylic paint with various techniques applied and a wall transfer rub on.

Another obligatory sink picture.

The plug in Scentsy warmer is currently warming the Silver Bells scent.

Lotion, hand soap, qtips, and cotton balls.

So, there you have it. The guest bathroom in all of it's ice blue, white, and silver glory.

Peace, Love, Laughter and Soul Y'all.

My Space - the Other Hub of the Home

2010-12-30T14:04:00.000-08:00

Today finds us in the dining room area and Bevo's Den.

These two locations are probably more the true hub of the home as this is where most of the entertaining occurs.

Both are directly off of the kitchen.

The above view is when you are standing in the kitchen looking toward the dining room table.

The living room is to the left. Bevo's Den is to the right.

I believe Nate Berkus would be proud of the two different ways I brought the outside in. The branches in the floor vase and on the table were picked up in the front yard after a windstorm.

In my old place this used to hang above my bed, flipped the other way.

I decided it would fit nicely on this wall in this home.

I chose to hang it horizontally versus vertically as it's congruent with the lines carried over from the entertainment center and free standing bookshelf.

I even said congruent to Fiwa the day she helped me hang it. Big words are part of my vocabulary y'all. *sheesh*

Speaking of carrying over, this is one of the best parts of the house in my opinion.

The kitchen, living room, dining area, and Bevo's Den all open up to one another in the, um well, open floor plan.

This is where you'll find me more often than not when I have people over. The ever so comfortable chaise lounge.

Yup, another blanket draped over a piece of furniture. I'd rather snuggle under a blanket than run the heat all the time. Therefore, you'll find blankets here, there, and every where . . . obviously. If you're counting, that's blanket #3.

More are laid out in the fall and winter but trust me when I say spring and summer nights require blankets and Snuggies too.

Back to the tour.

A nice little love seat, which is ever so comfortable too. A couch would have been too big for the room.

I picked this picture up from JoAnns. It cost me all of $11.00 dollars with coupons and a sale. Normal price? $65.00! Um, no.

These are framed pictures from Ikea as are the candlesticks and bud vase. The floating shelf is from Fred Meyer.

I was very proud for hanging the shelf all by myself. With the mounting mechanism it took me a couple of tries but I did it.

Wait, I should clarify. The roses were prints from Ikea. The frames were picked up from Bed Bath and Beyond + Michael's. Coupons and sales people, coupons and sales!

See the reclining chair in the corner? Yeah, first come first serve baby. It is a coveted location.

And ta da - the reason this space is called Bevo's Den. The cowhide is affectionately named Bevo. With all of the leather furniture, from Big Lots by the way, and the cowhide, the name Bevo's Den came to be.

The ottoman between the chaise and the recliner can be used as a seat or a table and opens up for storage too.

I found that bad boy in the clearance section of Burlington's and it matches so perfectly you wouldn't know it wasn't purchased with the chaise lounge, recliner, and love seat. Go Mo.

Are you seeing a theme here? I do sales. I do coupons. I do discount stores. I hardly ever pay full price for anything. Frugalista checking in *raises hands in the air*.

I don't buy many hard copy books these days. Kenny, my Kindle2, receives that kind of love.

The curtains are black out ultra suede in chocolate brown. They cover the sliding glass door, which opens to the deck and backyard.

Look who took care of putting the table upright and removing the umbrella you saw earlier in the week laying on its side? *pats self on back*

The white things you see are from yesterday's quick hail storm. They froze overnight and since we have not gotten out of the 30s yet today, frozen they remain.

Bevo's Den gets amazing light from the skylights and windows covered with bamboo shades/curtains.

The skylights also provide a relaxing soothing sound when we experience a little bit more than a drizzle.

Um, yes, the trashcans. Hey, they are part of the home too.

You'll find them kinda in the kitchen, kinda in the dining room area.

Regardless, laminated images have been included so you know which is which since I have a thing with stainless steel trashcans and really ~~force~~ want you to recycle when in my hizzle.

The little one is for composting.

There is a story to be told about these cans, which will be saved for some other day, as today's tour has been long enough.

I hope you enjoyed it.

Tomorrow we'll be in the guest bathroom and possibly guest room.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

My Space - The Living Room

2010-12-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

This is what you see when you're in the kitchen looking toward the living room.

Behind the sliding glass door awaits a balcony which overlooks the front yard.

This is another view from the kitchen or perhaps a partial view when you're sitting at the dining room table.

The shelves contain a few of my most precious things in addition to some odd and ends.

The top shelf currently holds 2 containers from Pottery Barn. A long time ago this is how I stored cotton balls and qtips in a bathroom.

Next to the containers is a decorative paperweight from Ikea providing a burst of color.

The next shelf holds games. The leather storage bin is full of coloring books and bubbles.

Following the game and inner child goodness shelf is what I refer to as recipe central. Duh, it is full of my favorite cookbooks, 2 of which are missing currently. I am in the process of menu planning for next week.

The final shelf, which is at eye level when you're curled up in the chair, is my heaven on earth.

There is a picture of my Mom and me with one of her rosaries draped across a corner of the frame. There are also a couple of the angels she used to collect behind a painted and stamped image I made that simply says faith, hope, and love via a stamped heart.

You'll also find the ashes of my childhood dog and kittehs on this shelf.

Charlie, the wonder dog, is in the brass box next to a framed picture of him. His collar is draped across a corner of the frame.

Jasmine and Princess are in matching urns; makes sense since they passed on within a year of each other and were cremated by the same facility.

Next to their urns are their individual paw prints hardened in clay, an individual container with some of their fur and whiskers, plus their collars.

I haven't framed pictures of them yet to put on this shelf. Their precious mugs look over me while I toil away in my home office from the cork board.

A few of their favorite toys are on the shelf too.

Take note of the candles on the left hand side of the above picture.

They no longer reside there. Why you might be asking. I melted the waxy cover off of one of them one night when the fireplace was blazing.

It was funny when it happened and still is so I fully expect you to be laughing right now.

I have since moved them to the island in the kitchen as pictured in yesterday's kitchen tour post.

This has now replaced the candelabra with the battery operated candles.

I double dog dare you to not make it go round and round when you see it.

It is one of the reasons I purchased it.

It's fun to play with, visually pleasing, and reminds me somewhat of the great State Fair of Texas.

Every piece in or on the entertainment center and free standing book shelf has personal meaning to me. It's not just a decorative item. There are stories behind them.

Can you tell I am a bit of a sentimentalist? Yeah, I thought so.

If you are standing directly in front of the entertainment center and turn around, this is what you'll see.

Notice how the right top couch cushion is kinda scrunched on the couch?

This is due to this being my chosen spot on the couch. I cuddle up next to the arm and obviously sink into the pillows.

The twin towers deserve a prominent place in my home. Not that I would ever be able to forget that day but this serves as a reminder of what once was and to always remember. Interestingly enough, I purchased the picture prior to the attack.

Just for kicks, the below picture is to reflect the Brady Bunch wall. That's what we affectionately call the white brick wall the candles hang on.

Tomorrow we shall tour the dining room area and Bevo's den.

Peace, Love, Laughter and Soul Y'all.

My Space - Hub of the Home

2010-12-28T06:10:00.000-08:00

Almost everyone, myself included, goes to the left once they walk up the stairs.

I thought for your tour we should do the same.

First up is the hub of the home.

The kitchen.

Kitchen window view, which overlooks the deck.

Yup, I need to remove the umbrella and put the table upright.

That's from the second to last Mother Nature's huffing and puffing fit er windstorm.

Meet Jack my juicer, George my George Foreman grill, and the ever present Scentsy warmer.

Today it has a pine scented smell warming. Don't try to scratch the screen to smell it. You'll just have to take my word for it.

My buddy the off brand magic bullet and toaster.

I use my buddy daily. Sometimes 3 or more times a day. I make my chai tea lattes, smoothies, etc., in it.

Who doesn't love a good sink picture every now and again?

I have a thing against sponges so you'll only see brushes in my house, which are run through the dishwasher every couple of days.

A daily reminder on the kitchen windowsill to have faith. The opposite side of the piece contains a sunburst.

Nothing much to see here. Just a dish rack, a microwave, and the sugar, chai tea, brown rice, and tea bag containers. Who needs to put the usual sugar and flour out? Not me obviously.

Oooh look, a gas stove top.

No seriously, a gas stove top. There is no better way to cook in my opinion. Also, it is quite fantastic to have when the power is out.

To the right of the stove is a container with the most commonly used serving/cooking utensils, olive oil + balsamic vinegar, and the kitchen knives in desperate need of replacing.

The kettle stays out this time of the year. Since this too is used daily, I don't see the need to put it away just to take it back out.

Here is one of my creative endeavors I painted that hangs above the stove.

The design is a t shirt iron on transfer.

I think the finished canvas looks much better in person when the flash doesn't white out the details.

On top of the fridge is the house mascot, Scat.

He was in the living room bookshelves when we moved in.

A quick decision was made since he was here before us he should remain to reign over his domain.

This is the view from the kitchen into the living room. To the left you can see the stairway and front door.

To the right you'd see the a free standing book shelf and the dining room.

Those are tea lights on the left and the picture hanging on the right is part of my family history.

It is a photocopy of a letter my maternal grandmother wrote in French to my mother in 1964, a picture of my mother visiting Pablo Picasso's museum on the French Rivera, another piece of the letter, and a stamped image of the Eiffel tower.

Hope you enjoyed the kitchen tour.

Tomorrow is either the dining room and Bevo's Den or the living room.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Welcome to My Space

2010-12-27T09:36:00.000-08:00

Over the course of the next week, should you choose to come along on the tour, I'll be sharing the inside of my personal living space with you.

I know most of us are ~~nosy~~ voyeuristic by nature.

I'll openly admit it.

I am intrigued by human nature and I like to visualize how others live.

So, if you're a little bit like me, sit back and enjoy my space.

Some of the pictures were taken in the summer and some more recent so if you see holiday decorations in some and not in others, this is why.

Call it my quest for a snapshot I am happy with.

Let us begin shall we?

First up is the welcome mat. Yup, I sure did select animal print.

Once the front door opens . . .

This is the picture at the top of the stairs.

If you turn left at the top of the stairs . . .

If you make a right at the top of the stairs. . .

Tomorrow what shall we see?

The living room, the kitchen, dining room, Bevo's den, the guest bedroom, the guest bathroom, my bathroom, the office/craft room, or my bedroom.

Guess you'll just have to check back in to see!

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y"all.

Weekly Challenge #130

2010-12-26T10:51:00.000-08:00

Before we start the new year I challenge you to open your cabinets and fridge to organize your condiments, spices, sauces, etc..

Check the dates too while you're at it. Toss and repeat if needed.

An organized fridge and/or pantry is a happy sight, at least to my eyes it is. Yes, I can be anal retentive with a tad of OCD thrown in.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

NOTE: picture courtesy of this site. What a story too!

Santa Struck Again

2010-12-25T12:51:00.000-08:00

Santa brought a few more of my favorite things today.

A mug of tea and painting rock my world.

I am fairly certain I know who my Santa is as only a few people know me this well.

We'll see if I am right later today.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T06:12:00.000-08:00

I hope you have hope, peace, and joy in your world not only today but each and every day.

May the day find you with love in your heart and laughter in your home.

Happy birthday Jesus.

Hugs and Love, Mo

Santa Baby

2010-12-24T22:21:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve morning Santa came to say, "Mo, with your eyes so bright, won't you get your colored map pencils and crayons out tonight?'

Thank you once again Santa for a perfect and much appreciated surprise!

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Remaining Holiday Decorations of 2010

2010-12-24T06:15:00.000-08:00

On the dining room table you'll see more of the outside being brought in and displayed in a sparkly vase.

These stay on the front door year round. They were originally a holiday purchase many years ago and have survived their share of moves.

This is what you'll see from the top of the stairs looking down toward the front door.

This is the bow at bottom of the stairs.

This is the view from the bottom of the stairs looking up once you enter the front door.

Here are the remaining glass balls with paint I made attached with ribbon in the guest bathroom.
They hang from the glass shelf, which is currently holding three twigs with brown ribbon and tea lights.

Now for the daylight, unlit views.

I used different ribbon and made a different kind of bow than the one at the bottom of the stairs since the viewpoint is different.

I love the simplicity of this wreath.

Here's the bottom of the stairs bow.

Outside there is a plain fake evergreen wreath with pine cones and battery operated LED lights on one of the doors.

The matching planters by the front door contain pine branches and pine cones, which yes, I picked up after our first major windstorm and stored in the garage until I was ready to use them like so.

Their names are Rudolph and Burl. They will stay in place through the winter until it's time to plant spring flowers.

My leaf blower vacuum has since cleaned up the mess you see above.

That reminds me. I need to do a blog about that purchase.

All the inside decorations will be taken down the day after Christmas and stored until

the day after Thanksgiving 2011.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Spot On Santa

2010-12-23T21:21:00.000-08:00

Santa struck again today.

I literally laughed out loud and exclaimed, "Awesome!"

Thank you Santa.

I am feeling the love.

I hope you reveal yourself soon so I can thank you properly.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Santa - I Know Him!

2010-12-23T11:41:00.000-08:00

Friday, December 17th, the pack went to see Santa and have our picture taken.

We actually know him. He's a friend of ours who dresses up each year for the City of Renton, WA.

Upon arriving in the almost below freezing temps, this greeted us on the street corner.

Taking a few more steps past the sign on the way to Santa's house this visual delight twinkled at us.

I present you with Santa's house.

Patricia and Andy with Santa.

Only thing missing were gloves and a mug of hot tea or cocoa while we waited in the short line.

I told Santa all I wanted for Christmas was a hug from him.

Wish granted!

Another member of the pack was with us. We honor her desire for no pictures to be posted. *sigh*

I consider it a win since we were able to get her in a group Santa photo snapshot, which shall remain in our personal stashes.

Afterward, we met up with some more of the crew for pub grub, laughs, to pass off some coveted Rotel, and to be treated to some disheartening street entertainment. Oooohhh, and to get footie onsie PJs, gloves, and work out clothes from a local Fred Meyer too.

Stay tuned for that part of the evening.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Santa Strikes Again

2010-12-22T19:55:00.000-08:00

I worked from my home office today so I had no idea Santa struck again until late in the day.

I didn't see this until I was on my way back in the hizzle as I was on the phone with J-Lo, on a mission to get the mail, and put the trash and compost bins out.

I stepped right over this little bundle of goodness. I am so very happy I saw it before I stepped back inside.

I followed the instructions and opened it today like Santa said.

How freakin' adorable this is!

It's a key chain with a LED light that makes ribbit sounds when you push the button to activate the light.

Another perfect little gift.

Thank you Santa.

You KNOW me.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Thank You Santa

2010-12-22T07:52:00.000-08:00

I arrived home last night to find this in front of my door.

It was a very much needed surprise and greatly appreciated bit of love coming my way after the week I have had thus far.

It may only be Wednesday but trust me, this has been a week.

Yeah, one of those where the patience is thin and I've become a card carrying resident of crazyville.

Since Santa said to open today, I did.

Waiting for me was an absolutely adorable set of colored rollerball pens.

Santa knows what this girl likes and will use over and over and over again.

Thank you Santa for thinking of me and knowing me so well. I love you.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Random Play

2010-12-20T08:38:00.000-08:00

Random Play on Iggy is just as random as I am feeling

1. Kissed A Girl by Katy Perry

2. Constellations by Jack Johnson

3. Diamonds by Robin Thicke

4. Got Money by Lil Wayne and T Pain

5. One Flight Down by Norah Jones

6. It's Your Thing by The Jackson 5

7. Rock and Roll is Dead by Lenny Kravitz

8. Meet Me Halfway by the Black Eyed Peas

9. Sexy Back by Justin Timberlake feat. Timbaland

10. Tough Lover by Christina Aguilera

What's your iPod shuffling for you these days?

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Weekly Challenge #129

2010-12-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

Weekly Challenges are back!

There I was.

Rearranging my vitamins and wellness formula since I just purchased some new gummie omega 3s to try for the very first time.

It occurred to me I hadn't checked the expiration dates of my supplements in quite some time.

I'll be saying buh bye to the Vitamin C as represented above. Poor things expire at the end of the month so they need to go!

I challenge you to check your cabinets and drawers for expiration dates on your OTC meds and supplements. You might have your very own Vitamin C situation going on.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

These Days

2010-12-18T08:44:00.000-08:00

This time of the year my Longhorn crocs and rubber rain boots aka galoshes are a common sight by the front door.

Lately we have had some killer rain and windstorms so protection of my feet is necessary when I venture outside.

I'm talking so much rain Noah and his ark should be arriving shortly.

I wake up in the morning and check to see if my toes are going to start webbing together.

Yes, this is Seattle/Pacific Northwest. We are known for getting precipitation but the Pineapple Express is showing us a thing or two these days.

Mother Nature is doing her best big bad wolf impression too.

She's huffing, puffing, and trying to blow this little piggy's house down with her 50+ mph wind storms.

I'm talking sustainable winds of that speed y'all. Not just a little gust here or there. Lots of gusts of that speed on top of consistent 15+ mph winds.

If you've ever wondered why I have a thing for hats or my hair appears to be pulled back and up a lot, ~~it's not because I'm lazy,~~ this is why. I'd rather not deal with elements and hats are a thing of mine. Just sayin'.

I will keep on rocking the weather related gear and cleaning up the yard like the champ I am. After all you just never know what idea I will come up with next that includes tree branches, pinecones, twigs, etc..

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

My Charlie Brown Christmas Tree

2010-12-17T01:54:00.000-08:00

I'm a simple pleasures kind of girl.

Little things in and of life make me happy.

I try to not take anything for granted or let things go to waste.

Little things like relaxing on the couch after a busy day with a fire going, a mug of hot cocoa with marshmallows in hand, and stumbling across Charlie Brown's Christmas special on network TV.

This is how I spent 30 minutes of my Thursday night.

Call it inspiration from Charlie Brown.

Call it "she's gone nuts with Martha Stewart tendencies" again.

Call it green queen rides again.

Call it what you will and behold the end result after I was unable to clear my mind and get to sleep.

My very own Charlie Brown Christmas tree.

Placed lovingly on the nightstand.

The holder is a recycled Trader Joe's chai tea latte container.

The "wrapping" is from a Trader Joe's bag.

The branches are remnants I haven't gotten around to cleaning up just yet from the mid week windstorm.

Yeah, that was me on my backyard deck, after midnight, in 33 degree weather, in my jim jams picking up a branch or two.

Don't judge me.

Fine. Whatever. Judge if you feel the need to. That's just how I roll.

The glass balls are from a previous crafty endeavor around Thanksgiving.

Rinse with vinegar.

Let dry.

Add acrylic paint.

Swirl.

Let dry.

Done and done.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Just Call Me Penny

2010-12-16T15:03:00.000-08:00

Some of you know of my storage fiasco.

Yeah, that would be the one in which my storage unit was completely emptied out in error.

Lost all of my holiday decorations. Buh bye yearbooks. So long to some irreplaceable items. Adios framed wall pictures.

C'est la vie.

I could have sued the apartment complex but really, what was the point? The damage was done and it wasn't intentional. Most all of the items could be replaced.

How does that saying go? If you haven't used it in over a year, you probably don't need it. They were helping me out. Yeah, yeah, that's it. ~~Punks~~

Let's fast forward to this year. I decided I would decorate for the holiday.

I may live in the evergreen state but I wanted a fake tree so I didn't have to worry about getting one every year or ensuring it was watered when I was out of town.

With a coupon from JoAnns and a huge sale going on, I purchased the tall and skinny pre lit tree for literally pennies on the dollar.

Keeping with the frugality theme, all the ornaments were either a dollar or were in a package from the dollar spot at Target.

The tree skirt is actually a blanket which usually is on my leather chair by the fireplace in the living room. Why buy a tree skirt when there is a perfectly good blanket available?

Twinkle, the sequined and glittered reindeer, was 60% off with another coupon on top of that so she too was pennies on the dollar.

The branches are from the yard (picked up after a nasty wind storm) and were bleached for two days before being bound together and tied with a yes, ribbon on sale with a coupon on top, making it pennies on the dollar.

Just call me Penny. I'm on the dollar.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Much Needed Laugh Today

2010-12-16T09:54:00.000-08:00

Thank you to my Texas cohort. You know who you are. xoxo

Game Night

2010-12-15T06:55:00.000-08:00

When: Friday, December 10, 2010

What: Small Pack Game Night

Where: Fun House

Why: Why Not?

How: PJs encouraged. Laughs mandatory. Gluttony optional. Haterade banned.

As you can see, one of us was on top of the picture taking game this particular evening.

Thanks P for coming through!

Disclaimer: Some of the pack don't care for their picture to be taken and posted so most of the time you'll just see P and me in small pack gatherings.

Nom Noms consisted of hot man meat aka spicy beef in a bucket. It was a "your choice of how to prepare" kind of night. With beans, without beans, crunchy taco shell or soft tortilla, cheese or no cheese, with the spanish rice mixed in or served separately. Onions would have been an option had I remembered to dice them.

We also had hint of lime and bite sized round Tostitos with Tostitios medium salsa and beans with cheese for dipping. Fresh blackberries, strawberries, and pineapple were available if desired. Chocolate chip pumpkin cookies with ice cream and organic moo sauce rounded out the evening's food choices.

Drinks were water, Michelob Ultra Light, Hef, Riesling, vodka on the rocks, root beer, or Coke. Yes, I said Coke. Someone else brought it so ~~get your panties out of a wad~~ chillax.

Spades didn't go quite as planned. The marine and housemate won. Next time you two, next time!

I ruled the table in Uno. I can be ruthless.

Poor P seemed to have a lot of cards in her hand when I was on a roll and she was after me in player rotation.

Love you, mean it.

That's ~~my pimp cup er I mean~~ Uno championship prize. Take note of the stack size. Boo-Yah!

I don't recall if I won two or three of the games but I won more than the rest of the table. Not bragging (ok maybe a little).

Yes, the plate IS compostable; as if you even needed to ask!
The next game night is yet to be determined, will most likely be bigger in size, and the adult monkey onsie footie pjs might be left in the closet.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Simple Pleasure

2010-12-14T17:27:00.000-08:00

On a rainy afternoon I am often drawn to a mug of hot tea.

There is something soothing about putting the kettle on the stove, pulling a mug from the cabinet, and selecting the right flavor choice for the moment that brings me a sense of calm and gratitude for the simple pleasures in life.

I have caffeinated or decaffeinated. I have hot cocoa.

I have honey. I have sugar.

What I don't have is coffee or sugar substitutes.

Your choices include

Hot Coca: Bliss Hershey's Dark Chocolate, Bliss Hershey's White Chocolate, or Land O' Lakes Raspberry.

Decaf: Stash Vanilla Nut Creme Tea, Ginger Peach by The Republic of Tea, Honey Vanilla Chamomile or Bengal Spice by Celestial Seasonings, or Trader Joe's Candy Cane Green Tea

Charged with Caffeine: Vanilla Almond Black Tea or Wild Berry Plum Green Tea by The Republic of Tea. Luizanne Black Tea, Lipton Green Tea, or Stash's Tropical Fruit.

Care to join me for a cup?

I'll put the kettle on and see you soon.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Three Rs

2010-12-14T07:14:00.000-08:00

I'm a green queen.

Friends and co-workers know this about me. I'm not a casual recycle "I'll do it when it is convenient" person.

I'm a dedicated, will school you, and even will pull things out of the trash from time to time person.

If it can be re-used before recycling I will find a way.

If it can be composted it will be.

So it should come as no surprise when the first holiday party of the season rolled around I would find an inventive way to wrap a white elephant gift.

I was also being lazy. I didn't want to go outside to the cold garage for wrapping paper when I was cozy in the house with the fireplace lit sporting my jammies and slippers.

I knew the gift, which was a small Party Lite ginger pumpkin candle pillar, didn't require much wrapping.

The first thought was a Trader Joe's bag with a piece of red ribbon.

Then I remembered I had a DSW bag under the sink.

I cut the side panel from the bag.

Wrapped the box like so.

Added a matching organza ribbon and called it good.

It is not traditional holiday wrapping by any means but I like the end result.

I saved the rest of the bag for future re-use too.

I challenge you to do some of the same, not only this holiday season, but in all of your days ahead.

The world needs more love. Reduce, reuse, and recycle are loving actions to mother earth.

Before I get more on my soapbox, off to work I go.

Please feel free to share some of your green ideas with me. I am interested and would love to hear them.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Ride or Die

2010-12-13T06:13:00.000-08:00

The blog has been like this for quite some time now.

By popular request I'll be getting the blog back to being more like this.

I'd love to tell you I was really on top of my game and took pictures of life while I was on hiatus.

I can't.

Call it the ebb and flow.

Some days I did.

Other days I didn't.

That's a lot like life though isn't it?

Some days you're feeling it. Some days you're not.

I have missed documenting, creating, sharing - whatever word fits best - via this outlet.

Since I have been asked by several different people to resurrect the blog, I'm doing so.

There may be some replication between Facebook, Twitter, and here. Here? Here feels like I'm coming home. After all, this blog IS all about me. It better feel like I'm coming home or something might be truly amiss in my world.

Feel free to come along for the ride.

If you choose to ride in my journey of life, please buckle up.

Louie does every day so it is only right you do too.
After all, there are people who love and care for you. I just might be one of them. Let's keep it that way shall we?

Yes, yes, it is true. Louie peeks around the head rest every day like you see above. I never ride alone. For real.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul y'all.

A'int No Thang. . .

2010-06-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

Some days it a'int no thang but a chicken wang. Happy Tuesday.

Happy Memorial Day

2010-05-31T11:06:00.001-07:00

I am privileged to not only know but to also love quite a few veterans.

It makes the holiday that much more meaningful for me.

Publicly I would like to thank them and their families for the sacrifices they make/have made so we can continue to be protected and enjoy our freedoms.

THANK YOU!

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul y'all.

Blast from the Past

2010-05-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

Me circa the early 90s.

You just never know what Facebook will share with you on any given day.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

I'm Here

2010-05-13T12:54:00.000-07:00

I'm alive.

Really I am.

Stressed.

Sick (yay strep throat!).

Traveling.

Settling in.

That's how I know I am alive.

I promise, we'll get back to the somewhat regularly scheduled programming soon.

Really.

Stay tuned.

I'd hate to lose you.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Changes

2010-04-24T09:53:00.000-07:00

As I type this entry Fred, John, and Rocky are packing up my stuff.

It's moving day in the hizzle.

I'm staying in the same city and moving out of the apartment and back into a house.

It's been time to move on from the current place for a while but honestly I never made the time nor the real effort to do so.

At the beginning of the year I decided 2010 would be the year I made the change.

The planets, stars, universe, big man upstairs -- whatever you choose to believe in -- felt the same and it all came together.

It all came together quickly, nicely, and with a few really good surprises thrown in too for good measure.

Here's to looking forward to the next chapter of my life.

I invite you to sit back, buckle up, and come along for the ride.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

OTRA

2010-04-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the week again.

The time of the week I re-pack the suitcase and head out to do what it is I do.

The time of the week I get used to sleeping in another bed other than my own.

The time of the week I work out in a hotel gym or my room versus 24 Hour Fitness.

The time of the week I embrace eating pretty much every meal out.

The time of the week I brace myself for crappy tp - 4 star hotels still have crappy tp - trust me on this.

The time of the week I kiss the kitteh adios and turn her care and lovings over to her Auntie.

The time of the week I ask you for safe travel prayers and vibes.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Weekly Challenge #128

2010-04-11T11:26:00.001-07:00

This week I challenge you to do something in which your body is in motion at least once a day.

I'm not saying go hardcore at the gym, although doing so would most likely be a good thing.

I'm challenging you to do something - anything - that gets you up and moving around at least once a day.

Swing on a swing.

Go for a walk around your hood.

Ride a merry go round.

Stretch.

Do some squats while you're cooking dinner.

Play horse.

Something.

Anything.

Just put your body in motion.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

OTRA

2010-04-05T05:15:00.000-07:00

My travel break is over.

Today I get back on the road. I'm flying the friendly skies this week.

I'm looking forward to my sister picking me up from the airport tonight and spending some time with my brother in law and two nieces before the work meetings begin.

Send me the safe travel vibes ok? You know I believe in their power.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Weekly Challenge #127

2010-04-04T16:05:00.001-07:00

This week I challenge you to say three little words that mean so much more than three little words to the ones you love and care for.

Don't let another day go by without telling someone you love them if indeed you do.

Don't assume they know how much they mean to you.

Tell them.

Say the words.

Write the words.

I love you.

Put the words out there.

I. Love. You.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Weekly Challenge #126

2010-03-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

This week's challenge is simple.

Step outside of your comfort zone and take a leap of faith.

Peace and Love Peeps.

Weekly Challenge #125

2010-03-21T11:34:00.000-07:00

When is the last time you pulled your credit report or knew exactly what your FICO score is?

I have a few friends who have fallen victim to mail theft and one more who has been a victim of identity theft/fraud recently. It made me stop and think. There is no time like the present to check our scores to ensure we are safe and there are no surprises lurking.

I requested mine this week in preparation of this week's challenge. Guess who had 2 surprises? Yup, that'd be me.

Please take advantage of the annualcreditreport.com offer for a free credit report and visit myfico.com.

There is power and peace of mind in knowing.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Love Y'all.

On the Ledo Deck

2010-03-18T07:32:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago we ventured away from our usual Thirsty Thursday activity; no pho or local Cheers this particular day.

We ventured to Elliott Bay Brewhouse and Pub in Burien.

We were 6 strong, 3 male and 3 female. Oh and Spanky too! The girls took the waiter's recommendation of the wine. We were not disappointed.

The boys.

One of the biggest hummus appetizers any of us had ever seen.

The competition, as is usually the case, became fierce complete with chest bumps and distractions as we played shuffleboard.

I brought home the win for us (Fiwa and me) in the final game of the night.

Stop by and say hi to Ryan. I'm pretty sure he'll take care of you the way he took care of us.

Tonight's Thirsty Thursday will find us doing something different too. We're going to a local comedy competition! I hope I don't get to laughing so hard I start to hacking; persnickety cough.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Happy Day

2010-03-17T13:06:00.001-07:00

I'm going to let you in on a little secret.

Right this moment I am not wearing a single stitch of green.

Nope, not even one.

Nor did I send out cards this year.

Please consider this my official Happy St. Patricks Day greeting to you and yours.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Hide 'Em

2010-03-16T17:14:00.000-07:00

I scored these sunglasses a few weeks ago for less than $3.00 on a whim while visiting Fiwa and running errands with Lala.

They are great for hiding tired eyes and rocking bed head hair.

Someone, whom shall remain nameless, referred to me as a nerd Friday night after he found out I was doing a game night in.

I like games - board and card games that is. I don't care much for gaming systems games but I do enjoy time in arcades, Dave and Busters, etc..

Anywho, Friday night part of the pack and I played Apples to Apples, Scattegories, and Spades.

Some of the peeps didn't realize how deep my competitive nature runs until the end of the night, or shall I say morning, considering my head didn't hit my pillow until near 5:00 AM.

I lost in both Apples to Apples and Scattegories but brought home the win with Caleb in Spades. {insert chair dance}

Early morning alarms + lack of sleep + age = need for the glasses.

I sent the above picture to my friend who called me a nerd with the caption "Nerd this!" Saturday morning.

He retracted the statement.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Weekly Challenge #124

2010-03-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

More often than not we fail to take care of the easiest of the easy maintenance on our vehicles.

How are your windshield wipers holding up?

Is it time to replace them perhaps?

This week I challenge you to do so if needed.

You'll be glad you did when the heavy spring rains pour down on you.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Weekend Plans

2010-03-12T15:44:00.000-08:00

This picture has nothing to do with my weekend plans. However, it is one of my favorites.

It is of my mom and was taken at the Picasso museum in France.

I think I've mentioned before I am a first generation American. My mom is from France and my father Canada.

I may start to get serious about researching my genealogical history since I don't know much of it.

The parts I am aware of intrigue me. I hang on to the details with all my heart.

I believe it's important to know where you are from in order to know who you are.

With that being said, I know I am a social creature by nature and my weekend plans indicate as much.

Tonight is game night at Pamela's with some of the pack.

Tomorrow morning I'll be doing a little bit of shopping with Patricia. Saturday afternoon is checking into something that may be a part of my immediate future, a lifestyle change by choice.

Saturday night there are two parties to attend.

Sunday day, for the time being, is wide open followed by Sunday dinner at my place with some of the pack. Maybe during the downtime Sunday I can do a week's worth of blogs and stop by some of my favorite blogging friends' places too to catch up.

Whatcha' got going on in your world?

I hope it is full of Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Weekly Challenge #123

2010-03-09T15:04:00.000-08:00

By definition (according to dictionary.com) create is a verb and means "to cause to come into being, as something unique that would not naturally evolve".

It also means "to evolve from one's own thought or imagination"and "to cause to happen, bring about; arrange as by intention or design".

Pretty deep for 6 letter word.

This week I challenge you to create.

Create your own reality.

Create your own being.

Take a few minutes from the day to genuinely reflect on what matters most to you.

If you're allowing others to dictate your life's choices, create a change that will put you back in control of the pieces of life that make you happy, that allow you to feel content, and at peace.

Create the joy you desire and deserve.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

NOTE: Photo courtesy of this flickr user's account.

Weekly Challenge #122

2010-03-02T12:49:00.001-08:00

When is the last time you cleaned your makeup brush or replaced an old one?

Can't recall?

Yeah, I was unable to remember too.

Make this the week you show your makeup brushes some love. Or if you don't use brushes replace whatever your applicator choice may be.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Current State of Being

2010-02-26T15:07:00.000-08:00

Sinus pressure.

Pounding headache.

Can't breathe.

Feeling totally off of my game.

Get better vibes, energy, and love greatly appreciated.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

OTRA

2010-02-23T06:25:00.000-08:00

Y'all send the vibes.

I'm heading out for a quick one.

I'll be back before you know I was gone but I still appreciate the vibes for the less than 48 hours I am away.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Lesson Learned

2010-02-22T14:37:00.000-08:00

A few weekends ago after an eventful day of brunch (Southern Kitchen), a sly silver fox pickup (silver fox in my ear), many laughs (the pack), shopping at my local crack house (Impress Rubber Stamps), bubble blowing in traffic (me from the backseat), watching a chick flick (Dear John), a visit to the nail salon was in order.

Patricia decided to take her tips off and I'm usually always down for a manicure.

I decided I was going to bypass my normal pale pink selection since it wasn't in my purse and live on the edge. I wanted to go with a color I normally wouldn't select for my fingers.

My Private Jet by OPI was the selection of the day for me. Patricia's are the longer nails in a black polish.

As the week wore on I became used to looking down at my nails and seeing color.

Then it happened.

The chips started. They stared back at me. I increasingly became annoyed. I wanted to take the polish off.

I rolled with it.

I re-learned a lesson - only polish my nails in a dark color when I own the polish.

With that being said, I am continuing to sport the dark polish. Say hello to China Glaze's Evening Seduction.

After two coats it appears almost black until the light hits it.

I'm open to new colors. What are you wearing these days? Don't be shy. I'm ready.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Weekly Challenge #121

2010-02-21T15:41:00.000-08:00

Do you recall the last time you wiped down the light switches in your home or your office?

If you don't remember - heck if even if you do - I challenge you to get busy cleaning them this week.

Hidden germs could be lurking.

Dust bunnies be gone.

Fingerprints a thing of the past.

Let's get to it.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.

Meeting Fun

2010-02-17T14:29:00.000-08:00

This is what I will be feasting my eyes upon for the next 2.5 days.

Who says meetings can't be fun while being informative too?

It's how we do.

I'm looking forward to seeing who does what with the goodies.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all - fo sho!

For the Love of Kenny

2010-02-16T22:42:00.000-08:00

I have been remiss in declaring my love of Kenny publicly lately.

I've convinced at least one co-worker to buy one and a few more are in the process of deciding. He loves his too and says he's doing more reading now that he has one than he was before.

I carry my Kindle 2 with me pretty much everywhere. Waiting or eating alone is a walk in the park when there is something available to read right at my fingertips

I failed to realize how much I've come to appreciate the slimness of Kenny.

I was soon reminded of this the other day when a book I had on reserve at the library was ready for pickup.

Behold the difference.

As the weight of the hardcover book rested on my chest the first night I read a few chapters I quickly arrived at the decision to return the book to the library and purchase the Kindle version from Amazon.

I continue to have mad love for the written page in the traditional book format. However, to carry 532 pages of the hardback book around with me isn't all that appealing to me.

Kenny kept me company as I ate dinner this evening. I read a quick article in Newsweek and then a little bit about the late Senator Edward Kennedy's experiences in boarding school.

Another great thing about Kenny is I could have been reading Jackie Collins' "Poor Little Bitch Girl" and no one would have been the wiser.

Had I decided I wanted to read my Lean Six Sigma book, an article in the February Reader's Digest, a chapter from "The Blind Side", or download today's USA Today or The Seattle Times I could have done so in a matter of seconds as I sat in Qdoba enjoying my naked chicken salad.

This evening, as I put the final touches on the bag for this week in travel, I give Kenny a kiss and a pat on my back for the purchase I have come to love.

Yes it is true the Kindle is an investment but for the way I live my life, it's well worth the spend.

Peace, Love, Laughter, and Soul Y'all.