The Campbell Family

Can we push back my birthday?

2010-07-05T23:58:00.001-07:00

I love LOVE my birthdays. Doesn’t matter what year I am coming up to, or what I do. I just love that I have one day that belongs to me and President George W. Bush.

Well, I don’t really love my birthday this year. I don’t mind turning 34, I like the fact that I have one more year till I am 35. Great things happen to 35 year olds. It hasn’t however been the best last week of being 34.

Our family lost a Great Grandma, Grandma, and Mom, last Tuesday, June 29, 2010. Dorothy Gene Dangerfield Gerth, went on to the place our souls go when our bodies are no longer able to care for them. We are sad, really really sad. Dorothy Gene Dangerfield Gerth January 12, 1926 – June 29, 2010 We love you Cookie Girl.

As if one loss wasn’t enough, two families lost their wonderful furry family members. Again we are sad.

Then, two different families have had terrible accidents happen to someone they love and need. Again we are sad, and we are praying.

I just don’t think I can handle anymore sad news this week.

Everyone is asking “what do you want to do for your birthday, how do you want to celebrate?” My soul wants to sit down in a quiet place and be thankful that my family is safe and healthy, and that Grandma was able to have a wonderful 84 years of laughter, fun, family and love.

Maybe I will just skip this birthday and have year 34 & 35 next year. That sounds like a good idea.

Isn’t it beautiful

2010-06-24T08:27:00.001-07:00

Tri training has changed locations for the summer. We now train at Folsom Lake. We were at Beales Point before the Triathlon, now at the Granite Bay entrance. I am a tad bit intimidated. I here the hills there are excruciating.

Look at this. Isn’t it beautiful. I love exercising outside. So much more than at the gym. There is something about seeing the trees and listening to the birds sing. And I am a sun baby, so there is nothing more wonderful than getting an overdose of vitamin D.

Hello? Where did my mojo go?

2010-06-23T07:57:00.001-07:00

Oh, I am having a terrible time finding the energy and drive to exercise. Where did my mojo go? I looked under the bed, in the closet, I even looked in the fridge. I found that when I couldn’t find it I went for the food. Yep, I have NOT been eating clean or exercising. And we all know what that means. My legs are getting soft and my bum is getting softer.

Last week I signed up for the Urban Cow Half Marathon. It is in October so I do have plenty of time for training. I am excited for it I just wish I was more excited to train for it. I have missed all my tri training in a week and a half. Mostly because I have been feeling crappy from a cold. I would be lying if I said this wasn’t effecting my mind and spirit. It is amazing the power exercise and good food do to your overall health.

So, I am dressed to exercise with a runny nose and nasty sore throat, I have to put on my shoes and head out to Maidu for bootcamp this morning. I am looking forward to seeing the lovely ladies that make up the Wednesday am group. Wish me luck.

This is what we did for nine days prior to me losing my mojo. Maybe that is why. Nine days of camping, boating, drinking, and eating. I actually did pretty good. I ran with my friends 4 times, 2.75 miles each, kayaked from across the lake to this very point twice. My eating was very mindful and my drinking well, better than you would expect. I gave up alcohol a month before the tri. So my body wasn’t prepared for the drinking and did not care to much for it. Which is good. I was so exhausted when we returned home, I believe the mojo just slipped away.

More Pictures

2010-06-17T00:39:00.001-07:00

I thought I would add a few more pictures of my Triathlon. Ok a lot of pictures.

Setting up my “hotel” the place that I will head to after I finish each section and leave to start another.

Getting greased up with my numbers. Race number 307 (which my Mom’s said were her favorite numbers) and my age. At the end of the day I didn’t want those numbers to come off.

Heading to the swimming area. I was so excited. You wouldn’t have believed that two days earlier I was hyperventilating and sobbing in open water. I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to do it.

My biggest supporter and love. There was NEVER a doubt in his mind that I could do this (well, a little the Thursday before; when I fell apart at Folsom lake) He was there at every transition, cheering me on and telling me how proud he was. He ran to catch me and take pictures. That gorgeous smile never left his face.

Almost done with the swim. It took longer than I thought, but I did it and I was so proud.

I had done it! I had conquered a fear. Swimming in open water, with my head in the water.

Getting on my bike. I am on my way.

A little over an hour I was back at the transition area. I was excited to start the last section of my day; the run.

I have pictures of me starting my run, but I wasn’t smiling and I look like I was defeated. I like these photos of me finishing. I am smiling. I did it. However, I wish someone would have told me to take my ears out of my visor. I forgot about that during the run. They were getting sun burnt.

I finished.

This is one of the reasons I did this. My girls. I wanted them to see there Mommy accomplished something big. Kelsey was so proud of me. She knew how hard this was for me and how much I had to sacrifice to get here. I missed her field trips, last week of school parties, and the last day of school. My girls always come first. This was the first time in 9 years that I put myself first. I did feel guilty and sad. But I know that there will be more last days of school and field trips for me to do with them. This was very important to me and because of that it became very important to them too.

My sweet proud Kelsey

Lorri Ann and I Holly and I

These two ladies are my angles. They (and a lot of other coaches) have guided me through this wonderful process, teaching me to trust my mind and my body and to know that I can do anything, not matter what. Around the end of March I started having problems with my colon and beyond. I had had blood tests, CT Scans, Ultrasounds, Colonoscopy, I was sick, hurting, bleeding and scared. There support and love never failed. What I learned from these women was that I could persevere and that I was a strong woman. I did it and I am so proud of myself.

Two years ago I would have given up, and been ok with it. It is my health, I need to take care of myself, is what I would have said. Well this time I knew that if I gave up and didn’t push myself to conquer that mind game I was playing, it would have been the end. I would have lost all respect for myself and I would have fallen into a depression. I needed to prove to myself that I am that woman I always thought I was, but have been way to scared to believe it. I was scared of failing. Well I am no long scared. For the first time in my life I can say with a smile and believe it – I AM PROUD OF ME. (thank you Mama Bootcamp)

I Did It…Now I Can Do Anything

2010-06-16T09:49:00.001-07:00

June 5, 2010 came and went. What did it leave me with is this.

and then this.

For the last 6 months I have been training for that day. 5 days a week focusing on my goal. Not only did I find courage in myself, but I found determination, trust, love, acceptance, and excitement in pushing my body to places it has never been.

It was one of the best days of my life. Yes it was only a Sprint Triathlon ( .5 mile swim, 16 mile bike ride, 3 mile run) but hey a beginner needs to start somewhere right? And YES I got that negativity from some. There have been some not nice people to me and yes it hurt my heart. But I am keeping my head held high and moving on.

I will do more. I will train for the August Tri. I would be doing the July, but I have started a class on Saturdays and I don’t want to miss it.

I might even tackle a 1/2 marathon. The possibilities are endless.

Training Day 50!

2010-02-26T08:35:00.001-08:00

Wow can you believe it has been 50 days since I have started this process? Doesn’t feel like it has been that long. Amazing.

Thursday morning we headed to the park, not knowing what was in store for us. The sun was shinning the air was crisp, perfect for a serious crazy butt kicking workout. My trainer was way to excited about what she had up her sleeve. We warmed up and then we were told to head to the hill. UGH! Really hills again. Secretly I was excited.

I headed to the hill we ran our .50 miles to the final destination, where we were told to do a warm up and stop at the top. The our trainer strategically placed two orange cones breaking the stretch into 3 sections. We were to start at the bottom run up to the first cone and turn around and run back. Without stopping we then had to run back up the hill to the second cone turn around and recover to the bottom. Again without stopping we were to run back up the hill to the top and turn around and recover run to the bottom. When we reached the bottom, we had to start all over again 4 times. WOW.

It was amazing. I am pretty proud of myself. I made faces, grunts not so nice words. but I did it.

4.25 miles of hills. Yay me!

I love family vacations…

2010-02-22T12:07:00.000-08:00

We went to the Russian River Valley for the holiday weekend. It was absolutely perfect. We always enjoy vacationing with Denise and Rob. Our girls have so much fun together and we all enjoy doing the same things. Whether it is running on trails, fishing, eating good food, wine tasting or just hanging out with the kids.

We didn’t do to much wine tasting or actually any (well other than the drinking) Denise is expecting so, the wine consumption was a little lower this trip. We ran on a trail from Shell beach to Goat Rock which was so muddy, I have never ran in the mud before. I was so worried about falling down that I ran hunchback and my lower back killed me later that day. We then hung out at the beach all afternoon. It was so beautiful. That's were all of these pictures are taken. The waves were crazy. This was the same weekend that the Waves took down spectators in Half Moon Bay. We went to Doran Beach in Bodega Bay and it was so calm and beautiful. Kelsey even body surfed.

This was the first day at the beach. The sun was hiding behind the clouds but it was pretty warm.

On Sunday the weather was amazing. Hard to believe it was in the middle of February.

We made an amazing dinner for Valentines; Rob made his (famous to us) Clam Chowder, Stephen grilled up filets and Denise and I made a yummy Salmon Pasta. Along with a bottle of special select and Caymus. YUM it was an amazing dinner.

Here is an amazing red wood. They are so huge. The girls loved looking up at them.

Training Day 47 (yikes it’s been awhile)

2010-02-22T10:40:00.001-08:00

Ugh, really 47, yikes. It has been so much fun! I have come a long way. I have almost dropped an entire size, and haven’t lost to much weight because I have been gaining muscle, but I have lost so many inches.

Could I be trying harder yes! Have I been giving it my all? Honestly no. And I really need to start. I am enjoying the process but also taking it really slow. I threw myself into training and put nutrition on the back burner. For me that was the best way. I love food. I have made changes but nothing dramatic. I can now run 4 miles woo hoo and I am running almost 15 miles a week. I love it.

On March 28th, I will be participating in a race being put on by Mama Bootcamp!!! Yahoo. My goal is the 10k, but the rate I am going with injuries and feeling ah just a little sore probably the 5k. But I can hope.

So today, I am suppose to run or do some kind of cardio. I don’t want to. Plain and simple….I just don’t want to. I will though. I will get on that Treadmill and run my butt off.

Training Day 9 (Friday)

2010-01-16T10:45:00.001-08:00

Rest Day Yippy!

I forgot to mention yesterday that when I got home from Tri Training, I took an Ice Bath to help my legs recover from the week. It took me 10 min to get in, and I used Lamaze breathing to get me through it. After the first 2 minutes, it wasn’t to bad. It felt like needles in my ankles and feet, then that went away. It started to feel good, I know that is crazy but it did. I got out after about 5 minutes, then took a really hot shower and stretched. Pantea our running coach recommended this, she said I would feel better. And YES I did. I am actually looking forward to running on Saturday and then plunging in the ice again. Anything that will make the recovery faster and more effective.

We made Clean Eating Turkey burgers from dinner tonight and they were yummy the entire family enjoyed them. They were so juicy and we put chopped garlic in them for that extra yummy flavor. So good.

Training Day 8 (Thursday)

2010-01-16T10:37:00.001-08:00

Ok, I am just plain exhausted. My legs are killing me and my spirit is a little down. I was excited to start training again today, but smiling not so much.

Thursday is a great group. It a lot smaller than Tuesday night so there is a lot of time to actually talk with the trainer. We were doing much of the same on Tuesday night so I wouldn’t really be timed on my mile. But I would love to see what I thought was my slow time on the mile. Boy I was still having a hard time with the run. My legs where just not having it. I was really discourage now. Wondering how long it would take for them to get back there energy. What should I do? I ran to mile 2, stopped got myself together striped down before we started, which I learned from last time. When the whistle blew I was off, ugh, so slow so tired. Geez legs get with the program. The rest of the body wanted to run. I struggled so much even more than on Wednesday. I finally pushed through. I made it at 10:46 are you kidding seriously? Even my crappy run was still under 11 min. I just didn’t know what to say.

On to drills which I really enjoyed because it gave me sometime to work the pesky heavy legs.

At the end I was glad it was over and I was looking forward to a rest day. And I was going to rest a lot!

Training Day 7

2010-01-16T10:27:00.001-08:00

Ok so I love Wednesday mornings too! Who am I kidding, I love all my Training days with Mama Bootcamp. This morning was Bootcamp. The sun was shining and birds were out, the rain as much I enjoy it was gone. It wasn’t too cold, so I hydrated and ate a quick but effective breakfast (protein shake with a banana) grabbed a cliff bar and water and I was out the door.

I dropped the girls off at school, and headed to the park. I was still pumped from the night before and ready to put my body in gear. Mentally I was ready, but physically not so much.

The machine was not super excited to be put through another workout so fast. Warming up I took it easy. I didn’t push myself just easing along. I was tired and a little disappointed. When I want my body to work and it doesn’t I get really down. After the warm up, I was told to take it easy with my run. I told Holly that wouldn’t be a problem because I wasn’t sure if my legs would actually move any faster than slow.

Off I went, Yikes! It felt like I had 80lb bricks attached at the ankles, ugh. I was a lot distracted by it and irritated. I wanted to fly by like the other Tri trainer who worked out with me the night before. But my machine wouldn’t let me. I pushed and pushed and finally made it to mile 2. I then decided to walk a little while thinking that would help and also thinking about what Lorri Ann said once “don’t underestimate the power of walking”. I think as someone who loves to run and loves what running does for me mentally and physically, I often forget that.

I finally made my way back feeling discouraged, but happy that it was over and then on to workout. I had to take it really easy at one point I almost started crying, my legs where just so tired. I found my happy place and just did what I could. I realized I was no longer smiling, I was no longer happy to be there. But another thing I realized. I didn’t make an excuse or try to find a way out of staying. I wasn’t looking to leave. That is a huge breakthrough for me. I usually play scenarios in my mind about how to get out of exercising, i.e. there is always something more important to do or I just convince myself that I am not feeling well. Not this time though. I pushed right through it and was happy when it was over and really proud of myself. Yea Me.

Tomorrow….Thursday Tri Training…..Woo Hoo.

Training Day 6

2010-01-16T10:08:00.001-08:00

I love Tuesday training days. Because, I get to train in the dark. It sound funny I know but, there is something about running at night. There is no distractions, it’s quite I don’t really notice all the other ladies and I am not looking at anything but straight ahead. I love it.

When I pulled up to the park it was raining like crazy. And the training will go on in the rain. So we headed to the under covered soccer field and did warm ups by the bleachers. I am tall, so there was little room. My head was under the bleachers. But I warmed up and I was excited to start our run. We were going to be timed on a mile, I was really excited. I haven’t been timed on a run outside in almost 10 years. I wanted to know what my speed really was while running outside. I run about a 11 minute mile on the treadmill and I feel like I go so much slower outside. I was a little disappointed that the mile that we were being time on was the 2nd mile we run. The first mile we run has hills and really puts me over the edge sometimes. I always feel like I do better on the first.

Thankfully the ran stopped just in time for our run. I did a slower pace warm up and then when we reached the top of the hill we cooled down just a tad and then got ready for the mile. I chose the wrong time to take off my layers, hat and gloves, I ran while doing it. I could have ran a tad faster if I did that before starting. I was a little disappointed with my decision to strip down. I have learned my lesson. I was unable to catch up with another runner who I had been pacing with. oh well. I finally made it to the end, and I heard 10:26 WHAT? are you kidding i thought, oh my gosh. I was so happy. I ran a mile in 10:26. That is huge for me. On of the last races I ran 11 Years ago I ran just under 10 min mile and I was in really good shape and had been running for a while. I am really happy.

After our run we did push ups, bicycles and drills. We did some really good leg exercises. My legs felt good and I was pumped. On the way home I was really excited and happy. I couldn’t wait until tomorrow for Bootcamp.

Training Day 5

2010-01-12T09:56:00.001-08:00

Ah, Monday the Training week begins. Monday is the first official workout day of the week. It starts the week off and doesn’t stop until Friday (rest day).

I am suppose to Spin today. Well, I didn’t. I know, the day started out really bad. The car wouldn’t start the girls were late to school and I was still all gassy from yesterday. Probably the lack of water and the unmentionable food I ate. Again Clean Eating is the way to go. I happen to think that hibernation is the best when the day starts out like that. I did a lot of journaling and house work, listening to music on my ipod and reflecting on my mood. Working through it.

I did work through it and I will be ready to face the world tomorrow. Until then…….

Training Day 4

2010-01-12T09:48:00.002-08:00

Another Rest day! I did rest. I slept in really late thanks to my wonderful children. I did splurge today on my food. And I have been paying for it since. My stomach is a little upset and full of air.? Not sure what that is about but I will have to look at my food log and make sure I don’t make that mistake again.

I didn’t drink hardly any water today, I will feel that tomorrow.

I think I will take the rest of the day to rest.

see you tomorrow.

Training Day 3

2010-01-12T09:48:00.001-08:00

Today I run (I sound like a cave man) along with Arm work. Since I had a close call with a Chin Splint. I was told to only run for 15 min, at a slower pace. Ugh. Really, I am back there again (over the summer I hurt my Achilles tendon and it was so painful to even walk). So I got on that treadmill but had decided that if the chins did not bother me I would run 20 min.

I started slow just pushing my cold legs along. At first they (the chins) were tight, as they loosened up it became easier. I increased my speed, and then I could feel there retaliation. They did not like the speed as to which I WANTED to run. So I slowed the speed again. I ran those 20 min. not fully getting that running high I usually get, but I was happy. The blood was running through my body full of oxygen, sweat was dripping down my face. I was happy and pain free as long as I ran at a slow pace. Which is fine.

Off to arm work, we have at Mama Bootcamp BFAS! Big Fat Arm Set, sometimes they are a Bigger Fat Arm Set. However I just did the original. 3 sets of 15 of each exercise.

I have been paying attention to how foods affect the way I feel when I exercise. I beginning to understand why that is important. I have been pushing my body more than I have in 7 years. In order for my body not to give up or my mind and spirit not to give up I have to make sure that I eat the foods that are going to allow me to get the best performance from my body.

I have switched to Soy Milk, I do not eat eggs on the training days, I drink protein shakes with a banana instead. Also on the Training days with Mama Bootcamp I usually have a cereal high in protein and fiber with low sugar and of course the Soy Milk. For lunch I have a salad and a sandwich or a wrap. Because my Training with Mama Bootcamp varies (tues @ 6p, Wed @ 8:30 am and Thurs. @ 11am) what I eat and when is different everyday. That has been a challenge. I have given up coffee, diet soda, and juice. I do drink tea every afternoon.

This week will be the first week that I am fully involved in training. Yippee.

I will be posting recipes from Clean Eating with pictures next week.

Training Day 2

2010-01-12T08:52:00.001-08:00

Today was my off day. I know, does that really count as a training day? YES! Don’t ever think that your rest day does nothing for training. It is my day of reflection of how my body is working. It is also a day where I focus more on my nutrition. I spent the day doing easy things. Trying not to push and making sure that I was drinking all my water and getting in my vegetables. I am finding that water and food do really effect my mood.

I have been trying out a lot of meals from Clean Eating. I love this cook book. It has really pushed me to use veggies in a way that I never have. In two meals I can get almost by whole days worth of veggies.

For Christmas Eve I made our entire meal from the Clean Eating magazine. Here is a picture of our Turkey.

I also made stuffing, sweet potatoes and green beans. It was so good.

I haven’t felt this good in a long time. The water, exercise, and eating clean is really working to make me feel so good.

Training Day 1

2010-01-08T15:12:00.001-08:00

It was sooo cold. I think maybe it got to under 40 degrees by 6pm. Stephen had taken me shopping for some appropriate cold weather workout clothes. I am so glad he did. I was jumping in place for the first 10 minutes waiting for the fun to begin. Lets back up a few minutes though. It took me a good 15 min. to actually get the courage to get out of the car. I am just plain shy and have a love/hate relationship with new things when I don’t have a buddy to keep me company. Thankfully there were a lot of women who came alone too. Good for them (us)!

When training started, it started slow for me. I don’t usually workout in the evening, I am usually drinking an adult beverage by then (maybe two)! But soon I started to warm up and it didn’t feel so cold anymore. The more I moved the warmer I got. Planking and ab work OUCH! If I don’t do another crunch in the next few days I won’t be sad.

After warm-up, we then talked about running groups, I started to panick. Ok, I am not a walker hoping to become a jogger or a jogger/walker or a runner I am a jogger that wants to be a runner (or you could call me a very very slow small stride runner). There were three groups. I didn’t fit in perfectly with any of them. So I kind of made an in between group with a few other women. I was no longer panicking. I actually was just like those few other women and I started to feel more comfortable. I had made myself a “running” playlist for my ipod, so I would have music that would push me to run. I ran and ran and ran. I ran faster then I had ran in a long time. And it felt so natural and like I had been doing it for years. I caught myself actually smiling at times. I was giving my self a pat on the back!

After the run and a little bit of stretching and a potty break (I wish they made diapers for people who ran) we did many, many, many sets of pushups and bicycles, I was anxiously waiting for the final final final from Lorri Ann. As that came I pushed my upper body up for the last time, and moved onto drills. We have a running coach (I am super excited about this) she had us doing really funny looking (but very effective) drills for posture and conditioning. I haven’t decided if I will be doing them in the front yard yet!

All in all it was a fantastic night. I left feeling really great. I was happy, my body was tired but exhilarated from being pushed so hard and I was looking forward to my Epsom Salt bath and tea.

The amazing thing is that after I got in the car, I realized I was no longer cold, and could not remember feeling cold during or after the run. Weather appropriate clothing is a must! I will be getting pants, underwear and socks next!!!

Friday’s are my off days, so no training just stretching for 20 minutes. Back on Saturday when I do my 35 minute run, which quite possibly be a 15 min run, depending on how the chin feels.

happy exercising.

Tami

The Training Begins

2010-01-07T09:39:00.001-08:00

I have decided that my word for the year is Move (Movement to be exact). So I signed up to do Tri Training with Mama BootCamp. I have been with Mama Bootcamp since last April. But took the summer and beginning of Fall off, and came back in October. Since Oct. I have lost 28 inches!!!!! and 8 lbs., which means that I lost a total of 8 FAT lbs. and gained some lean muscle. Fantastic!

I love Mama Bootcamp, I love the trainers the women and being outside. So when Lorri Ann announced that they were starting the Tri Training again for the Tri for Fun on June 5 at Rancho Saco, I thought about it and couldn’t find a REAL reason not to do it. So I committed. Yicks, but I am super excited.

So today with be my first Tri Training session. My session will be Tues at 6pm, and Thurs at 11 am. Then in between I have a bootcamp session on Wed. and then Monday I spin and do weight exercises and Saturdays are my running and core strengthening days. Friday and Sunday I have off.

Sounds like a lot but I am really excited. I have to get the nutrition part down and make sure that I am eating to fuel my body so it performs like a machine.

Wish me luck!!!

Winterfest

2009-12-10T12:45:00.001-08:00

At Kelsey’s school they have all the 2nd graders come together to have a big winterfest celebration. We did crafts and they children sang songs. It was a lot of fun. Both girls came home with a few crafts and lots of cookies in their bellies. I would post more but feel funny having her other classmates on the blog without parent permission.

There is a reason.

2009-12-08T10:04:00.001-08:00

There is a reason I don’t own snow boots, snow jacket, snow pants, not even a nice cozy beanie for my head and ears. I don’t even own a pair of mittens or gloves.

I don’t do snow.

I don’t do super cold weather.

So yesterday I wasn’t really all that excited about waking up to snow. Even if it was only less then an inch, when I did get up. The girls were excited. It is pretty to look at, the white is so pure and bright. But when you have to load your kids in the car (with out heat – that’s another negative post) its not super fun. I am glad it is over. I am glad that the super cold weather is followed by the sun shinning and no ice on my windows.

But here are some pictures of the pretty white stuff taken from my nice cozy warm house.

The only good thing about snow is the hot coco and burning wood in my fireplace.

The poor dog couldn’t even do his business this morning without having his poor paw pads freezing up.

Decorating for December

2009-12-06T08:54:00.001-08:00

I love love love Christmas and the month of December. I love the smells, the lights, the cheery voices and magic that this holiday seasons brings. On Thursday we were able to pull out some of our decorations and the girls went wild. We put up our tree (yes fake) and I love it. We now can put up our tree the day after Thanksgiving and keep it up until Jan 2nd. I am a happy girl.

I love waking up in the morning and turning on the lights on the tree, and looking at all the pretty ornaments that we have collected over the years. The girls had so much fun decorating the tree. And they did a pretty good job.

The mantel looks amazing (not the decorations but the actual mantel.) Stephen did a fantastic job and it is beautiful. I am going to change the decorations on the mantel I just wanted these off my kitchen table. This is the first time we have had a mantel to decorate for Christmas. Can’t wait to start wrapping presents and putting them under the tree.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-01T09:09:00.001-08:00

We had a really nice and on the go Thanksgiving this year. Nothing new though, we seem to always be on the go on holidays. Maybe someday that will change and we will be able to enjoy our home. But until then; her are just a few pictures of the girls and their Papa and Nana, and a funny of my little sis JJ.

Shelby made her turkey headband at school the day before. She kept quacking though when she wore it. She could not remember that it was a gobble gobble. Maybe next year.

Our Very own little crab feed

2009-11-17T08:13:00.001-08:00

Stephen went with a friend yesterday to pull his crab pots in Bodega Bay! How do you say no to that. All I wanted to know is if we were going to get to have crab for dinner yumo!

He left really early in the am, met Mike and then off they went. It turned out to be the most beautiful day on the ocean, sun shining and the water calm. The first few pots were close to empty, pulling up one or two crab with a starfish or jellyfish. They were bringing to worry about how they were going to feed both families on such small Pickens. Well, the last post they pulled up had 17 crabs!!! Dinner here we come.

Mike gave Stephen 8-9 crab, we set the table up with a disposable tablecloth, cracked the crab and away we ate. And boy did we eat. Four adults and 8 crabs! Yum Yum. The kids did help a little, maybe a claw or two. It was a great dinner.

Stephen had a great time, he has always wanted to be a part of Dangerous Catch. It was just minus the Dangerous part, with an insert of Beautiful Bodega Catch.

Wow, Its been awhile.

2009-11-11T11:20:00.000-08:00

Updating the family blog has not been on the top of my list lately. One reason its a pain in the behind with my pc. Now I have this wonderful new friend. I’ll call him Pete. Yes I name my favorite appliances, cars, and techno toys. Some of you have met Thor! Anyway Pete and I are just getting acquainted and I noticed that I have a little button that if i connect my blog to it, it literally takes me right there are. No login, no getting ready and trying to do something in html or whatever that is. Just writing and thinking and blogging. Yea! I am really really really excited. Yes that required 3 really.

Halloween,

ok here are some pictures of Halloween I love this holiday. So much, I just wish Stephen was able to enjoy it with us more. He has never been trick or treating with Shelby – seriously never! In four years he has been gone. Terrible I tell ya.

look at my beautiful and scary girls. Kelsey wanted to be a vampire and Mrs.. Shelby a Spanish dancer/princess. She was in heaven with the dress and makeup.

The girls went around the neighborhood with my in-laws, and I passed out candy. My favorite part. Then Kelsey decided she was done, but Shelby was not she trick or treated for another 20 min.

At the end of the night they had huge bags of candy and were so happy. Shelby wanted to do it again the next night. The girls are already planning what they are going to wear next year. We can’t wait.

Boating

2009-08-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

We went boating with Gina and her kids yesterday. It was fun, however I will never go on a Saturday again. There are really stupid and inexperienced boaters and jet skiers on the lake. Apparently everyone can drive a boat. Yeah, makes you think.
So we played it REALLY safe and went to find a cove. It was fine until some really uneducated people decided to join us pulling a water skier going really fast in our small little cove, Stephen ended up yelling at him to stop and then the guy let all 15 people out of his boat to party on the shore. So we left. To find a new cove. And we did, it was better. That's were I took these neat pictures.

Have a Gymnast for a friend makes for fun times and great pictures against the beautiful blue sky.

Tomales Bay

2009-08-02T14:03:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend with Denise Rob and Kaeleana in Tomales in a cute little house called the Poet's Loft. It is on the water, not near or close or partial on, but totally on top of the water. On stilts. Yes I was a little nerves until I saw that they were concrete stilts, then I was put at ease.
I tried something different with these pictures so I didn't have to load a bunch separately.

We did a lot of fun things that weekend. We fished a lot, wine tasted, ate yummy donuts, watched the girls play together. Denise and I went to Point Reyes to run up to Arch Rock, it was fantastic. And we would end each night with yummy food, laughs and wine!

Ok, so that didn't work like I thought it would. I am going to have to consult the expert and the manual for photo collages.

Alot has been going on....

2009-08-02T13:35:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy this summer, so not too much blogging going on! Here is a little OK maybe a long recap of some of the fun stuff we have done.

Lake Tahoe July 2009, we went up Tahoe as a family and I mean the WHOLE family Moms and Dads, Sisters, Brothers, Cousins, and even a few friends!! We celebrated Rob graduating from Residency his mom and sister came out from New York. We also celebrated my 33rd Birthday. It was fun!

That's our trip, well most days anyway. Shelby was really sick from a bladder infection, and then my camera battery died and I forgot to recharge it.

Fun times!!!

2009-07-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to the Sacramento Antique Faire, Mer, Dylan and Moe met me there. It was a great day I don't have a lot of time but I will post these pics. ok, one picture. I know totally lame.

I was so excited when I saw it. It was just staring at me when we were walking to the gate! it needs a little love but thats all. I am so excited to get started on this.
I also picked up some fantastic patterns, dating from 50-70's. I am also excited to be working on those too.

This ones for YOU!

2009-05-01T09:46:00.000-07:00

And you know who you are! OK, so that last month has been fun and full of fun stuff, at home and on little journeys through out the land.
I also want to thank a friend for reintroducing me to Oregon Trail. Yes now I spend more time on that then I do FB. its just that fun.

San Francisco Zoo has always been a favorite. but this time we were a tad bit disappointed. there were a lot of animals that were being checked by the vet and some of the exhibits were closed. But the weather was fantastic and the kids had a great time.
After the zoo we headed to our hotel and to have dinner and to take advantage of the Manager cocktail hour.... FREE Cocktail hour! Then on to a little Thai restaurant. We were dropped off at the restaurant by the shuttle and then we would have to walk back. On the way to the restaurant the children were able to see the real live people zoo of San Fran! A man peeing on a building on the side walk, and men sleeping in cardboard boxes and sleeping bags along side of buildings and sidewalks. It was so great. The children had decided that those people forgot to pay there bills and that is why they didn't have a place to pee or sleep. Fun Times.

the next day we went to California Science Academy over spring break it was a lot of fun. There was so much to see and the kids really had a good time. We did miss the Planetarium show. Stephen was a really sad. I don't think I have ever seen him so disappointed.

I was going to add Easter pics but they won't load.UGH!

It's been a long time friend

2009-04-05T09:43:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been so long since I lasted checked in. Looking back at my last post I just received the Feb. Kit! Now I am getting my March Kit.. I will post pics and soon as I get it.
In the meantime these pics are what we have been up to lately.

I love these pictures, I spent hours scanning and naming old photos, and I still have hundreds to go. This picture is of Stephen side of the family.

This is a picture of Kelsey and Taylor from my Brownie Troop. A local Girl Scout Troop held a Mother Daughter Tea. A few girls from my troop went and we met up and had tea and crafts it was a fun afternoon.
Kelsey is using a pen she just decorated with a silk flower. She loved doing this and it was so easy we might just make more of them and give them as gifts for Mother's Day.

As if I didn't have anything else I could be doing I started to put some of Great Grandma's items on Ebay. I have never done this before and I am quite scared. I know I am a wimp, but these kinds of things frighten me. I hope that I did the right pricing and descriptions to sell these items, because I have a ton more! This women loved to collect and collect she did. If there is anyone out there that has a fascination with old creamers and pitchers from different countries, please let me know!

Ah, spring time in this house mean SO much bike riding. My girls love to ride their bikes. Santa aka: Mama and Papa, gave Shelby a bike for Christmas. She loves to ride it. And she has such determination when she does. Her little tongue pops out and her little legs just keep digging to go faster. Kelsey loves to race Shelby because she wins! It won't be like that for much longer. I think Shelby's training wheels will be off in no time!

The girls and I watched Kaeleana last night so Denise and Rob could go out to dinner and have an adult conversation that didn't require, looking for dropped toys, fish crackers and screaming tantrums... Remember those days? (reason 12 why we did not have a 3rd child).
Kaeleana is such a sweet loving determined little goose. We love having her around. She has started talking and copying words. I have been trying to teach her how to say Auntie. When I say Auntie, she points to herself. We have a lot of work to do.
Well, that is enough Campbell family fun for one day!
We are going to the California Science Academy and Exploritorium in SF, this week, so I will have so many fun pics and stories to tell.
Have a fantastic sunny Sunday.

Kit Club

2009-03-22T13:05:00.000-07:00

Yes it has been another month and I have my NEW February Kit from Green Tangerines. I do have to say I haven't even opened the bag yet (it is so pretty) I haven't had time to sit down and play with the fun stuff. But I plan on making time this week.
If you are interested in GTKC goooooooo HERE

On another note. Kelsey started practicing with Magic Circle Theatre again. This performance is called "let them eat Kelp"? Not really sure what this is about but she will get to sing "yellow submarine" by the Beatles. So I bet it will be good.

Still going and slow with weight watchers. Up to 8lbs now. very exciting yes it has taken me 8 weeks to get there. I did however figure out that wine really kills weight loss. So I will have to kick it out of my diet for a little while.

Month in Review

2009-03-05T08:16:00.001-08:00

I took the month in review and made it about out trip in January of 2009. Instead of tracking what we did during the month I have decided to take a particular activity or day and make that the focus of the month. Since I normally scrapbook in chronological order I felt that this would be more fun to do.

And since I seem to not have a creative brain anymore I pretty much copied the sample. I can't wait for next months!!!
Now I am going to start scrapbooking the rest of the photos from January with the Kit. I will be buying a new album just for the Kit and the MIR. So at the end of the year I will have a years worth or coordinating layouts for each month. I am so excited....
If you are interested you can get yours at GTKC

Look what I came home to.

2009-02-27T12:48:00.001-08:00

So my hubby, he is a well rounded kind of guy. He cooks, cleans, creates and even plays pretend with the girls. He can cook about anything, and his hating of clutter really helps with keeping the house clean. He even makes sculptures with the girls and forts and on the rare occasion I will get a scrapbook layout for my birthday and/or anniversary.
Well, today when I can home from work I found another amazing thing he can do.

He built Window Seals for all the windows downstairs and is going to start upstairs next week. We didn't have these, we just had an ugly cut out, and since our house isn't really decorated (not my thing) this really makes it look more homey.
I am so happy about them I had to share.

I Got Mine!

2009-02-27T11:42:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I did it I officially signed up with Green Tangerines Kit Club....I say officially because in my heart I was already signed up, but had not yet made it official.
And now I have!!!

And I got the Month in Review too.

I am super excited. If you are interested too, here is the link GTKC
or just give them a call 877-771-8010.
Woo Hoo, I am going to get creating!!!!

Oh you have to check this out!

2009-02-19T08:56:00.000-08:00

ok, so at Green Tangerines there is LOTS of new stuff
oh and it is so pretty.
So not much new going around here. I finally organized all 14,158 pics on my hard drive. That was painful, but hinny hurt from sitting so long. But it needed to be done. I am really excited to get my hands on Green Tangerines Kit Club.... I will show you all when I get it.
This is just a cute picture of my girls with Kaeleana, they are so sweet.

however it is not the most attractive picture of the three of them, but I love it.

2009-02-09T12:08:00.000-08:00

If you haven't already watched this you should..I have seen it so many times, but I love it. women are the most couragous loving humans. I am glad I have a few as friends

It's a sad sad thing...

2009-02-03T13:05:00.000-08:00

OK, so I had all or Sunday well most of it to actually scrapbook a little. I sent Stephen off to a Super bowl party, had a friend come over to play with the girls. I sent up the laptop to watch past seasons of lost to get caught up. I have really never liked this show but this season seems to be the best.
Anyway totally off the subject, I was already to get down to business and then....
nothing! Not like nothing then you got through your stash and find some long lost treasure and you are so inspired you can't get the wonderfulness out of your head fast enough.
NOTHING.....
It is so sad I am so sad. I don't know if I even really want to show you what I did do. It is bad. I am in a funk. Any ideas ladies and gents?

Our Church

2009-01-20T19:05:00.000-08:00

Every time we visit Kauai we make sure we spend a day on the north side of the island. We go to beaches, drive around go through shops eat and visit the church we were married in.
We love this church. We take pictures in the same places to document the growing or our family and how big the girls get. We love it so much. The girls really like it too, Kelsey had so many questions; like who was the flower girl, why wasn't she the flower girl, who walked you down the red carpet, where did you stand. All of these were followed by Shelby; I was there, I was the flower girl, I walked mommy down the red carpet and I stood over there.
It was really funny. And of course I had to get a few cemetery shots.

These last photo was when we were here in 2006 of the girls and I and Stephen with the girls.

Fun in the Kauai Sun

2009-01-20T18:39:00.000-08:00

Ok, so am I done with the sun yet nope..and from what I hear I will be getting more sun when I get home. That's ok with me.
Another fun couple of days, we visited two beaches yesterday. We snorkeled and played Frisbee and had a fabulous time at Lydgate State Park. I actually snorkeled. I haven't in almost 7 years. It was fun, and the only reason I did it was because we were in a protective cove and there were no turtles or crazy looking sea life. I am a wimp and I don't care.
Then we went to another beach that we have to hike down a cliff too. It is an amazing beach you can't swim there because the current is so rough even on a calm day. We didn't stay long because it turns out it was a nudist beach. And trying to explain that one to Kelsey was hard. Plus, we didn't want to see some of the things that were just "hanging out".

Poipu Kauai

2009-01-17T11:32:00.001-08:00

Aloha!
We are having such a great time here in Kauai, the weather is beautiful, the last two days have been really windy with a little ok a lot of rain, but we still managed to get a lot of sun on our pale white bodies!

We see whales every morning and afternoon, from our lanai. Yesterday Stephen and the girls and I moved to our own room. We were staying with my Sister and Brother in law for the first 4 days. It would seem that it would have been crowded or inconvenient but it was so far the best 4 days.

Our new room has a great view and is a bit larger. which is nice for the kids.
Here are some pics that I have taken. I am finding that I am living more in the moment and not taking to many pictures. But that will change today.
I miss all my Green Tangerines friends.....

2009-01-05T10:23:00.000-08:00

Since I totally copied on post from a friend....and I lack any thoughts of my own for my own blog I am stealing this one too, from a different friend... Kinsey

100 things

as the title says...the list is of 100 life experiences, i think you are supposed to bold what you've done.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band does High School band Count?
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Held a praying mantis
9. Climbed a mountain
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill...I know shocking, but Karma bits hard.
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied..money really doesn't make you happy or satisfied.
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo's David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in personI was two, but it totally counts
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone's life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100.Read an entire book in one day

There are a lot of things that I have done, but even more surprising some of the things that I haven't done, well I feel like I should and that I might be interested in pursuing. Interesting list.
Try one yourself.

Goodby 2008...hello 2009!

2009-01-04T11:54:00.000-08:00

This is going to be my year! I think my universe gives me good years in odd numbers, so I am really excited for this one.
I am stealing this idea from my friend Raimi . So here goes.
1.What did you do in 2008 that you have never done before? Had surgery twice in three months. Yikes, that was not fun. First the Grumpy Gallbladder then the Pesky Hernia! I think I am done for at least my life time.

2. Did you keep your 2008 New Year's resolutions and will you make more for 2009? I am going to have to research that one. But since I still have 50lbs to loose I am going to take a guess and say no! So this year will be not to take my health and body for granted and treat it the right way.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth in 2008? A couple of cousins had babies this year, my niece turned one -- so that counts kind of.

4. Did anyone close to you die in 2008? Yes, my in-laws dog Kona, she was a wonderful dog.

5. What countries did you visit this year? Well, I think I am going to change this one. I didn't travel to any other countries this year, but I did travel to other counties! I guess that isn't the same.

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008? More time with Stephen, with both of us working and his overtime, we may see each other once a week, for more than 4 hours.

7. What date from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? I would have to say election night. The speeches were wonderful, and the mood was up lifting. Regardless of how the outcome came out, it was a powerful night and one that will remain special to me.

8. What was your biggest achievement this year? This one is hard, I would have to say, getting Kelsey to school on time. Last year was tough, so I am really proud of us that we didn't have one intentional tardy.

9. What was your biggest struggle this year? Probably my body image. I have struggled with it my whole adult life, but this year was the hardest. With two surgeries,there was really nothing I could do for a while. So I plan on 2009, not to struggle with acceptance. I am sure it is a much more peaceful place.

10. Did you suffer any illness or injury in 2008? Oh did I. First the Grumpy Gallbladder and all the pain full attacks and then the surgery, then to Boob issue which is resolved and we are just waiting for the next mamo and us in March to make sure everything is as it should be (2009 is my year so it should be fine). And then the Hernia, I have had my share of injury and illness and I am looking for a healthier year.

11. What was the best thing you bought this year? Our new truck! We love it and Stephen loves it. This probably wasn't the best year to buy a new truck, but since his old truck was diesel and it died, we had no other choice.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration? Can I say mine? The children were very whinny this year and it was not pretty.

13. Whose behavior disappointed you? that's a hard one.

14. Where did most of your money go? Bills, and hobbies, with my scrapbooking and Stephen's fishing and hunting we have very expensive hobbies. But we are extremely lucky that we are able to splurge on the things that keep us sane.

15. What did you get really really excited about this year? Stephen and I went on a little vacation away by ourselves to a little fishing cabin up in norther ca. Just the two of us doing what we both love. Me scrapbooking and Stephen flyfishing a few days just us being us. It was fantastic.
Also, watching Kelsey learn to read it is so amazing to see her learning and processing. We can't keep the books our of her hands it's so great.

16. What song will always remind you of 2008? The twilight soundtrack.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you: much happier, much nicer or richer? All of the above, richer not in the monetary sense but in love, family and friends.

18. What do you wish you had done more of? Exercised.

19. What do you wish you had done less of? Surgery.

20. Did you fall in love this year? Yes, with Edward Cullen!

21. What was your favorite TV Program in 2008?Grey's Anatomy AGAIN, and the Biggest looser, how could you not just love this show. All it does is give people a chance at a better life.
Oh and the Office, and Kath and Kim, I know a little tacky but I do love tacky!

22. What was the best book you read this year? The Twilight Series.

23. What was your greatest musical discovery this past year?Muse and Linkin Park, totally random and not me, but a day does not go by that I don't listen to both of them.

24. What did you want and get this year? A Camera, and great report from Kelsey's teacher and time with my family.

25. What was the best movie you saw this year? Well, since I hardly ever see a movie, at home or in the theatre, I will have to say Twilight! I know there is an addiction there.

26. What did you do on your birthday and how old did you turn? My hubby gave me a party, with friends and swimming a little cake and some nice wine! I turned 32 and cried most of the day, I did not want to be 32, I think it just was a premonitions of what the year would be. If I could I would skip it and be 33. it's the odd years I am telling ya!

27. What would have made your your year more satisfying? Organization! Acceptance.

28. How would you describe your personal fashion statement this year? I am a jeans and tshirt girl. Have always been and will always be.

29. What kept you sane this year? scrapbooking and chakra therapy.

30. What celebrity did you fancy the most?oh, not so much a celebrity but a character. Edward Culllen.

31. Who did you miss this past year? Friends that I lost track of, things get busy and one thing leads to another and then you realize you haven't spoken in 6 months. That weighs heavy on my heart.

33. Who were the best new people you met this year? I met a lot of new people. Some ladies I met at Green Tangerines would have to be on the top of my list! And old friends that I was able to get in touch with via Facebook, girls that I grew up with and haven't seen or talked with in over 12 years.

34. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned this year:You are your own happiness. And not to take your body or mind for granted.

Christmas here and gone

2008-12-28T09:56:00.000-08:00

Christmas was very relaxing and fun this year. Shelby for the first time really understood what it meant and what to look forward too.

Stephen was able to make it home before the girls were out of bed so he could see their faces when they saw what "Santa" had brought them.

Shelby got Baby Alive, which is really cute, but not fun play on the carpet. Kelsey received a wooden puzzle of a train, she had been eyeing it for about 6 months at Orvis, She is so much like her dad. He was given a Orvis gift card to buy a much coveted reel for his Alaskan Fly fishing trip.

Christmas was good to me too, I ordered the Bamboo Tablet for my computer, I am hoping this will make using Photoshop a little easier, I loath the mouse! Now I just have to take some classes from Meredith, and I will be set!

I hope everyone had a joyous holiday.

Merry Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T10:16:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas!
I will be enjoying all 18 of our wonderful children and 17 cousins, aunts and uncles.
There should be 36 of us, but Stephen, has to work today and will be home tomorrow morning. But I am very excited to see the two new additions!
I hope everyone is traveling safe, and are warm and cozy!

I finally finished

2008-12-18T16:15:00.000-08:00

I have spent way to much time on this little project, but it was fun.

The card didn't turn out the way I expected and wasn't exactly what I wanted. I may still change it.
I am in LOVE with Copic pens, I used it to color in the skin of Lilly (Skin White).
I may just go out and get a few more this evening. You can now buy them here

The bow on the box is my favorite. It was so easy to make. You take 1" by 6" and then pull the ends together and layer each of them. I will be making a lot more in the next few hours.

Santa and Reindeer

2008-12-17T23:44:00.000-08:00

The family went to an annual Christmas party on Saturday with some friends, and there were some very special guests. One of the guests was welcomed with open arms and great big hugs. The others well, lets just say Stephen had a plan; and it wasn't a good one.
No he was not going to shoot it and skin it; he was going to tackle them and protect the children.
I however refused to stay in the room for more than enough time to get a few pictures.

oh I forgot about these. I think I was ten the last time I had a Tab. Yes it was yummy.

Stephen and Shelby watching Santa and his Reindeer very closely.

The Scary Reindeer. They were not happy and not fond of children or being confined in a small hot loud garage.

Kelsey receiving her gift from Santa, wow I didn't know he shopped at GT!
It was a great party, and I put in my request for next year; snow and elves.

Little projects for Christmas

2008-12-17T23:34:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I spent a lot of today doing little projects that I wanted to have done before Christmas so I could incorporate them with some gifts. I should have started months ago, but I only got my little hands on this paper today so...enough said.
Here is what I did.
These are going to be tags on the gifts we are giving way.
This will hold a special gift card for a special someone.
I love this paper from My Minds Eye. I am still working on the card that will incorporate the little happy snowman. That is still to come.
And a quick sneak of the yummy goodness I worked up last night.

Just a pop into say hi

2008-12-17T15:01:00.000-08:00

I am working on ALOT of stuff, and don't really have time to post but I will tonight with pictures.

I just got home from Green Tangerines and I bought some wonderful My Minds Eye Paper!!!! Hi Mer! He He He......
come back soon so you can see what I made.

Christmas at the Campbell's

2008-12-10T09:28:00.000-08:00

Decorating of Christmas is my favorite part of the year. Except for this year. I thought I had more decorations...I think Stephen secretly threw out all the old hammy down Santa stuff or i did, someone did and now I have to buy new stuff.
We did get a new item this year. Our beautiful fake tree, I nagged Stephen so much that one morning on his way home from work stopped off at Lowes and bought the most beautiful already lit tree.

I finally finished the Advent Calendar, this was a class at GT by Jodi, the girls love it. I put coins in each of the boxes, however Kelsey stills says every morning. when do we get the chocolate. I am not kidding when I say EVERY morning. You would think she would see the pattern here. hum, maybe she s really smart her self and that is her way of giving me a jab. hum.

Warning .... Graphic pic ....Hope there are no vegetarians out there

2008-12-10T09:23:00.000-08:00

In our house we hunt for our food. Everyone gets involved --- except for me! I only eat Elk, yes i am a wild game snob.
Here is a pic or my lovely little goose next to a few geese they had for dinner. I am very proud of my hubby, he provides food for our family. This year however, he didn't get drawn for Montana so no Elk for me. I am sad.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T10:36:00.001-08:00

I know I am a little late! but oh, well better than nothing.
It has been such a crazy three days.
Here are some pics of our yummy and fun Turkey Day.

These were taken at my aunts house, I would have gotten family pics done..but the camera battery died.
Apparently that is my MO this holiday season.

Trying to get a family photo.
Brett and Stephani and Trystin, they came up from Fresno. It was great to see them.
Denise and Rob and Baby Kaeleana...she is getting so big
One of the turkeys yes.. we had two...for left overs.
the women got in this one can you tell?

Geneology Jackpot!

2008-11-24T10:20:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I received some paperwork to go through from Stephen's mom's side of the family. This would be her paternal side.
I got this....this is a HUGH! This is the original discharge form for John M Gessler, in 1861 who served under Commander Alfred Sellers, in the Civil War. I did some digging and found out that Alfred Sellers was killed in Gettysburg.. YIKES, I was doing the happy dance. John was discharged due to an amputation of the leg. (I think).
I have a lot of other stuff to go through.

I also found thisA Monument that John M. Gessler made. I am just blown away.

Our Star Student

2008-11-20T07:39:00.001-08:00

We had Kelsey's first parent teacher conference yesterday.
We are so proud of her, she is not only a very willing and eager student but sweet and caring too.
She is really enjoying her class and learning. She is almost reading at a 2nd grade level.
She is still struggling with Math. So we will be working very hard on that.
But we are excited and pround.
That is my mommy brag.

A little known fact about me.

2008-11-19T08:28:00.000-08:00

These pics were taken last year, on our way back to Bodega Bay a little cemetery on Bodega Road, just about to reach the intersection to some road that takes you to Bodega Harbor.
I love cemeteries. I always have. I don't think they are scary or weird, but very interesting and romantic. I could spend hours roaming a cemetery looking at all the headstones, trying to find the oldest dead person.
I know that must sound really morbid, but I like old people and I like there history even better.
Maybe that is why I enjoy Genealogy so much. Why I spend hundreds of dollars a year just to have access to all the latest discoveries.
There are a few/well a lot of free sites. And I devour those too.
One of my favorites is Cyndislist.
There are thousands of links that are extremely helpful. A bit overwhelming though.
Another great site is Dead Fred. I love this site. And I love the name.
If you have any questions about Genealogy, or would like something looked up - leave a comment or an email and I can help you. I have been doing this for 9 years now....I am not a pro by anymeans, but I do have alot of access.

Stories In Hand...The story is I am still stuck on day 5!

2008-11-18T08:15:00.000-08:00

This project from Jessica Sprague, is great! There is a lot of printing and cutting which was perfect for me; especially since I don't really remember a whole lot from last week (due to surgery and pain meds). So I finally finished the project part - and have yet to start on the story part. It feels gloomy to me, well I guess that is not the right word for it. Overwhelming is the correct word. I have just received Day 9 email, and I haven't really done anything over Day 5 yet. But I am going to just dive in tonight.

I would love to hear if you have started and what your progress is.
***************************************************************************
And since I haven't finished that project....I still have yet to start this fantastic project
and no I am not biased because it happens to be Ali, its just fabulous.

One last thing....
I came across this . website/blogand for some reason I can not stay away.....check it out.
I was on the couch one evening totally bored, and so I just started going through peoples favorite blogs...Yes I am that nosy! So the Pioneer Women, she is a writer? photographer, Mama and her pics and life really do take you away from the city. Makes me want to go out and live on a ranch...well, no it does not I did that once... I don't like feeding livestock! And I would be way to far away from Green Tangerines. So I will just continue living my city life, happy, healthy, and fully stocked with all the latest and greatest scrapbooking has to offer.....

"Yellow Croc Boots are just the BEST"

2008-11-18T08:06:00.000-08:00

Those were Kelsey's words after receiving a much waited for package from UPS! By the way she now loves UPS just as much as I do (boxy lady) -- that's for all you Green Tangerines fans...you know what I mean!!!

Stephen had some extra Cabelas points so of course after purchasing a much needed dog kennel cover - for Duck hunting purposes??? still don't understand. He wanted to get Kelsey some new boots to go into the field with. I did have to convince her NOT to wear them to dinner last night with her sparkly purple dress. She opted for her traditional purple crocs.
Still don't get it....but they are her feet and it's just not for me to get.

Not sure why, not sure what it means....

2008-11-18T07:54:00.000-08:00

But for some crazy reason I am on the list for Sacramento's Blogsphere; behind the number 1, along with alot of other sites. I do however think it is neat. Unless I found out that it's not then boo hoo.
EVEis too! So that is the excitement of the morning. No I take that back; the real excitement is that I feel REALLY good today. Yay for me. I am going to post those pics of my Stories at Hand project and the stuff I received from Two Peas (for the Ali Project).
EDIT: I guess this is just be relavance to the area..... still not sure what it means....but all my favorite girls and places are on it too. So it is still exciting because....well i don't know why....

Project links...

2008-11-13T09:19:00.001-08:00

ok, here are the links to the Projects I was hoping to start this week. I may just dive in next week.
here is the Ali Edwards:
family spinner
I am very excited about this project..I am looking foward to starting this over the weekend.
I would love to here if you are starting these too.

Hernia be gone

2008-11-12T08:41:00.000-08:00

I had surgery yesterday, and it went really well. It turns out that I had TWO hernia's good thing I found it when I did. Because it was only going to get BIGGER! yicks...thanks for all the love and support. Especially from the girls and guy at GT. I really am a part of something fabulous.
I do want to brag just a bit because well, I never do and it is making me happy. A receipe box that I made a while back in on the front tabel at GT, and people like it! Yeah. I know that sounds strange but it makes me so happy, because I am really not to confident in the projects I make. So there it is thats my brag. Even though I know that the Teresa Collins paper is the reason that everyone loves, it but I will take the credit for this project. Yea me.

I have sort of started Jessica Sprauges project, well I am getting the emails at least. I a stuck on the couch for a few more days. So I will start hopefully on Saturday.
I am also excited to start Ali Edwards project. I will do links some time today when I am not on pain meds and I can remeber how.

Stephen wants to Invoke the Lemon Law on Me!

2008-11-06T13:22:00.000-08:00

Yes, Stephen thinks that I should be able to invoke the Lemon Law on my body. I think he has finally had enough. I probably should be worried. But I am not, all joking aside. I have a Hernia. Yeah me! And guess what that requires....more surgery. Yippee. no I am not excited I am pissed. Are you kidding. No one my age should have to see a surgeon on a regular basis. I shouldn't even have a surgeon. What the *&%%! I am having pity party, OK, well I haven't seen the Dr yet all this is just anticipation for the worst possible outcome. I can hear Dr.McNabb now "your tummy is broken and it needs to be fixed". He told me when I needed to have the grumpy gallbladder removed that it "was sick and it will get worse and it needs to be removed" So off to the Dr. I go....
I guess I could live with a golf size ball sticking out from above my belly button. Ugh I don't think so...maybe I will get that tummy tuck after all.....

Halloween 2008

2008-11-06T13:13:00.000-08:00

I normally take an amazing amount of pictures for Halloween, but because we did a little close friend family party for Kelsey's 7th, I was much to busy to even really understand that it was Halloween.
I almost missed the Halloween parade at school along with the treats I was suppose to bring, and to top that off. I took one pic on Halloween night and the battery died in my camera. I was totally unprepared for Oct. 31st this year. but I was very on task with the party it turned out great and a lot of thanks goes to my hubby...he did some awsome decorating.

We played a mummy game and guess the body part game with werid yicky food. The kids loved it. I am glad everyone had a good time.

Hope everyone eles Halloween was good.

Hat Creek California

2008-10-28T16:32:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I traveled to Hat Creek Ca. A tiny little town named by the Creek that runs through it. It's about 60 miles north east of Redding. About 4 hours away from Rocklin. It was quite a drive, but in the end when we arrived we were so excited. We kind of new what we were getting but to see it in person it was breathtaking.
Stephen caught so many beautiful fish, some big and some small. I scrapbooked and watched more movies than I have watched in 3 years. It was a great get away. We didn't leave the property we cooked in and talked listened to music and drank way to much! We started the days with Champagne, the way I like to start my day. I didn't get to many layouts done. I did those pictures that you should scrapbook, but you are really not interested or excited about doing. It was hard. Each afternoon I would sit down with a glass of White Wine a piece of Cambazola cheese and crackers and try to get excited and use my prettest paper and embellishments and NOTHING...It was agonizing. Ah, what I would have given for a trip to GT for some much needed inspiration. I may or may not be showing those layouts. It is such a sad sad thing.
Here are some more pics...I think we will be visiting again next year..maybe for a 7 year anniversary.

Results and Playing the Waiting Gami AGAIN!

2008-10-13T15:56:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have taken a few days....maybe a week off of the blog spectrum, to just well; I guess be lazy. I love being lazy.
So I did receive some results last Friday and some other info: here it goes:
please feel free to leave questions and I will do my best to answer them.
I have Scattered Fibroglandular Densities, with punctate rounded benign appearing microcalcifications. So basically that means that I have calcifications that are benign appearing -- still have to have that darn biopsy on the 20th just to make 100%sure they are benign, then I will be throwing myself a booby party. I do have to go back in 6 months and have more mamos and ultrasounds for follow up.
So, the call I got on Thursday of last week that had me in tears all day, is for my right boob. Apparently it was so jealous it wanted more attention! And boy is it going to get it. I have a summation artifact that needs more lookin at!
So there you have it! Good news and well, just some more waiting. I go in tomorrow morning to get the mammo and US. Wish me luck, I don't think I will need it though. I really appreciate all the love and support ALL of you are the BEST! I love you all.

Breast Cancer Awarness Month

2008-10-04T09:24:00.001-07:00

Friends, if you have never done your own self exam; do one TODAY!!!! There is not a better time than right now to get to know your boobies! Can I say that? Well, it is my blog and I am the author of this post so Yes I can say BOOBIES!!!!
So some of you know that last month I went to the Dr. and she found a lump in my Left Boob, I am a little disappointed in that boob, since it is the perkiest and largest of the two I have. No mine are not created equally. He He, that was funny.
Now I have to simply wait for the results to come back and to see the Surgeon on the 20Th of October! What a wait, and yes it is hard to not think of anything else. I have done all sorts of research on lumps, there are a lot!
I do however keep coming back to a conversation I had with my OB/GYN at my 6 wk, post baby appointment 3 years ago, the conversation went like this:

Me: A few of my mom's cousins and aunts have been diagnosed with Breast Cancer and I am concerned.
Dr.: What about your Mom, Sister, or Grandmother?
Me: No, thankfully
Dr.: Then you have NOTHING to worry about!
Me: OK.
Well if you do a little research you will find out that 70% of those ladies with Breast Cancer Do Not have family history of Breast Cancer!
Be proactive about your own health. Doctors do not know everything, and you know your body better then they do.
Now go say Good Morning to your Boobies!

A Week in the Life of Us

2008-10-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

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So I decided last Monday that I would take part in Documenting a Week in Our Life. It has been more difficult than I thought it would be, and a little boring. We just don't have that much fun around here.
Unless you think taking your sweet little 3 year old the Emergency Room and her having to get IV fluids, anti throw up meds, and blood work done is fun. She is better now, thank the powers at be. And I did leave the camera at home. I didn't want to seem like a weird mom, who wanted to document this horrible experience, but looking back I wished I did. I want to remember how fragile this little being really is. So next time, when she has a fever of 103.7 and has not kept anything down all day, and I will be more proactive, and not let her get so dehydrated!
Shelby be has a Bladder Infection, a pretty bad one, apparently. Anyone with little girls Just a reminder FRONT TO BACK!!! They are not kidding when they made this rule.
Here are a few pics of our week.

It has been fun doing this; but I forget to take some pictures and I am not really good and righting things down. I figure if this week doesn't turn out so great...there is always next week.

Sunday Dinner

2008-09-25T09:39:00.000-07:00

Look at my sweet little niece, I am totally in love with her. She is quite the amazing little girl. She started crawling early, and the she started walking at barley 10 months. She is so sweet and loving and she loves her cousins. They are pretty head over heels too.
Right now my sweet Kaylee is in Kauai, getting her first Hawaiian tan. Lucky girl.

Saturday Morning Fav.

2008-09-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

I have learned to love Soccer, I however do not like watching practice! It is not so much fun. Last Saturday, I know I am a little behind on my posting. Kelsey was picked to play goalie, I don't think she really liked it. Only one goal was made with her guarding the net, she was able to stop the ball a few times. One time she actually waved her hands out in front of her motioning to her teammates that she did not want the ball. Very funny, I was so embarrassed. Here are some picks of my cutie.

Shelby, Ashlynn, and Raelynn were playing on the sidewalk through the last half of Kelsey's game and for another hour while Carsten and Parker played. These little girls are so cute.

12 Weeks of Christmas

2008-09-25T09:01:00.000-07:00

GT Has started the 12 Weeks of Christmas. We are on week 2, the first week was August done by Kinsey and June by Raimi. Every Wednesday a new kit will be released; here is what the last two look like.

This little layout is one of my favorites right now. I used Diamond Glaze on the "My" and it looks really neat.

I am really trying to go "out of my box" and it is really hard. I am always second guessing myself. I am not sure why, since the only person that has to really like it is me.

Consistancy

2008-09-25T08:52:00.000-07:00

I do have consistency in my life. I consistently forget to blog, I consistently forget to blog for work, I am consistently not losing any weight, I am not consistently exercising, I am not consistently reading the last book of the twilight series. So you see I do have consistency in my life; just not what I expected.
So I am going to try to be more consistent; and I am going to start with this. I hope you will join me.

Cards for Kaeleana

2008-09-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

I bought these really cute stamps from Pink Cat Studio's. I love Lilly you can dress her up they make for great cards

I made these for my Sister in Law Denise, and for my little sweet niece Kealeana. She has a grandma in New York, so I thought they would be cute little cards to send fun messages to. I loved coloring these, it felt so good to color and trying to be really careful and not go out side the lines.

Just a little off the back....

2008-09-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

hummm, no that is not what I asked, when I went in to the salon today. I said take it all off! Don't leave anything behind.

Remembering

2008-09-11T06:08:00.000-07:00

Some like to forget this day in our history, I like to remember it. I want my children to grow up remembering it. September 11th was a hard and horrible day, as a family we were not impacted directly (thank the powers at be) but it did however effect us as Americans and as family of a Firefighter and a larger family of Firefighters. We dealt with anger and hopelessness, sadness, gratetude and admiration. All the feelings that you could have on day that it was 7 years ago. To be honest I do forget some days. But then there are the days when I send my hubby off to work, and the reality does sit in. Will he come home? and when he does will he be safe? I know that Stephen actually going into a building and it collapsing is something that is probably not going to happen, but even a small roof collapsing or being on the side of the freeway, or being in a rough neighborhood is dangerous. And I won't even get started on the air and chemicals he breaths in everday and what they are doing to his body. - Now I am totally off the subject.
Today doesn't only mean remebering the Firemen, office workers, piolits, flight attendents, travelers, police officers and everyone eles that was lost this day 7 years ago, but to remember the service men and women that fight for our country each day. For the ones that were lost and the ones have come home with physical and mental complications.
Fear set in on that day for me, before that I was very nieve. I am very proud of all that serve our country. And I am very proud of all the firemen and police officers that put their lives on line here at home. I hope you spend a little time today feeling gratitude for those who keep us safe.
I am VERY proud to be an American.
>....as she steps off her soapbox.....

Woo Hoo Tami!

2008-09-07T13:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am going to toot my own horn!! I have lost 5 lbs. I started Weight Watchers last week and I am kicking my own big butt. I am going back an forth with Lean Cuisine and Smartones. These food are so yummy. It probably costs a little more than Nutrisystem, and since my hubby wasn't quite excited about that I decided to do this instead. Yea Me! I have a little over 19 weeks until we leave for Kauai and I have some serious work to do! Wish me luck.
oh here is a picture of Stephen and I at his 20 year Reunion. It was so much fun, I had a great time with all my girlfriends, that sounds weird since it was his reunion. But Stephen has stayed friends with everyone so I know all the spouses. It was like having a girls night out, only the boys were there. It was so fun.

Working on some stuff

2008-09-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

Last night I was able to go to Scrappy Hour with some wonderful friends of mine! It was a great night. I got a few things done, with a little (and a lot) of help from my wonderful coworkers Kinsey and Lauren! Even though I have been scrapbooking for 5 years, I am still a beginner beginner! I love to have help from people I adore and admire. Thanks girls.
By the way, I am apparently doing something wrong with regard to using my camera and taking pic of these.
Please if you can help I would really appreciate it.

Let the Games Begin

2008-09-06T18:41:00.001-07:00

First Soccer game was so great! Kelsey had fun and she played really well. She got to kick the ball to start the game and she ran after it like it was a feather blowing in the wind. By that I mean, she really isn't the most aggressive player, she is very polite and I am not sure she has much confidence in herself. But I have faith she will get to that place. She played the first half of each quarter? I am a little confused with the lingo of soccer. It was so fun to watch her play and cheer her on! The second half she played Defense? (not sure) any way she was able kick the ball away from the other team so her teamates could send it on its way to the other side of the field. Such fun! I can't wait until next Saturday....also because I don't have to bring snack again!

Ancestry Box

2008-08-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

I finished another Creative Imagination box, this time I used Graphic 45 paper, I love the heritage stuff, it makes me just crazy. The ribbon I used is so beautiful, the pictures however are HORRIBLE---yes that was a scream, I still do not have my wonderful camera, Stephen is on his way to pick up my sweet baby right now! I used his terrible camera to take pictures, I don't even like using this camera. Stephen takes it Duck Hunting and to Montana, in the snow, that should give you an idea how well this camera is working.

On the index cards, I will be putting personal history and interesting facts along with pictures behind that tabbed cards. I haven't started that project yet.

Sorry for the not so happy post

2008-08-26T21:42:00.000-07:00

Well, this morning started out HARD! I was tired and sore and not feeling good, then I got the bad news. Our good friends Steph and Jeff Chapman's dog was hit by a car early in the am on the 26th of Aug. ugh, Steph loves her dog Drake, he is her canine soul mate, it was a tough day for her so I drove up to Auburn to pick her and her offspring up and take her to the ER Vet to see Drake and spend sometime with him.(our boys were workin) The good news is that he will be going home tomorrow! So that is why I felt that the Universe was throwing me a curve ball. Steph had broke her foot the night before, seriously don't kick a Mama when she is down.I am so tired to day and totally worn out. Officially off the crazy meds on to something a little milder.Drake cruisin on Lake Whiskeytown
Drake dressing up at Rollins lake
Jeff Steph and Baby John; who is like 3 now

On another note....Ms. Taryn from GT will be off to San Fran to start college, I personally think she should stay with us here in Rocklin; but that girl has some dreams she wants to make come true....So good luck...I will miss you and all your wonderfulness.

The Universe

2008-08-26T09:57:00.000-07:00

Is a little sucky right now! Hope everyone out there is having a good day and you all are safe, loved and healthy.

Serendipity

2008-08-25T22:40:00.000-07:00

What is it really? Serendipity Do you believe? Does it really exist? or is it people making the "signs" to be signs? Where does it all lead? Do you have a Serendipity story? if you don't know the Movieyou have to watch it. If you haven't been to Serendipity3 and you are going to New York, you must go. When I went to New York 4 years ago with a good friend, I wish I would have paid more attention and took photos! I did however see, Carol Alt, wonder if that was before her raw food days. Anyway....I have a Serendipity story, or I like to think I do; it sure felt like it. Mine started 9 years ago, and he's a work right now. It's an interesting story; I followed my heart and the "signs". I just put my life in the universe's hands and it gave me what I wanted....Destiny...If you follow its lead, you will find all the answers.
to those who are wondering....only Motrin tonight. Hee Hee.
BTW I just finished the movie for the 7th hundred time, hence the weird post......

Hello...a funny pic

2008-08-25T22:35:00.000-07:00

Our cat Curly thinks he is one of our kids, well I guess he is but sometimes I think he takes it to extremes.
He like sharing a pillow with Kelsey, he waits until she is asleep and then climbs in next to her. He doesn't curl up in a ball or any normal cat sleep position, but head on the pillow and legs under the covers very weird.

Still on the couch

2008-08-23T19:57:00.000-07:00

Today has been a bad day. I have been felling horrible. I think they put holes in my brain and took out some brain matter, I know this post is horrible. It gets better. I had some wonderful visitors today, you know when you meet some people and you have a good time and time goes on and you are still having a good time, and then something happens like you have surgery and you find out what really good people they are. Tonight my friends Liz and Tammy came over; they brought me dinner, desert and Victor. Yes Vodka, here are some pictures.

The little marshmallow pops are brownie bites covered in marshmallow and chocolate with sprinkles and chocolate chips and little bottles of alcohol with instructions on when to use them. This totally made my day. I am so lucky to have friends like this. There girls, made me cards and was given a book to read, along with the yummy brownie bites Tammy and Liz made me pulled pork! YUM, along with coleslaw and buns, I love buns. I know that I had surgery but who's jealous of me know!!!! My wonderful mom also came over today, she seems to think that she isn't very nurturing, well, she is silly because I only feel really good when she is around. I feel safe and taken care off, and feeling that will never go away no matter how old we are. I love you mom.
I am missing the GT Crew a ton, and can't wait to back to work. Thanks for all you lovely messages.
Oh, I received my prize package from The Scarlet Lime today -- OMG, Christy sent me all the new basic grey paper, and new stamp from 7 Gypsies ribbon from MM along with cardstock stickers from MM, yeah. I have to get better soon to use all my new stuff.
I am hoping to get my camera back tomorrow, and I will a happier girl.

Hee Hee

2008-08-22T12:25:00.000-07:00

Guess who's reading the Twilight Series???? scroll down to the question from Miriam.
I knew this lady was great!

Thank you

2008-08-22T08:17:00.001-07:00

I wanted to start off by saying thanks to all your sweet calls, and emails and post. Everyone of you mean so much to me and I love getting the love from you all. So an update; Yesterday morning Stephen and I went to the Surgery Center at 6:00 and did some paperwork and talked with staff, then off to get my IV, not my favorite part. The Surgery center is so beautiful, Sutter has really done a great job. They have the HUGH comfy chairs you sent in when they ask you all your medical questions and then give you an your IV (something about forgien object stuff in my arm makes me nausea). After the IV, I started to cry - because that is what I do, (on a daily basis) I kissed Stephen good bye, and walked off the the surgery room, this room not so beautiful. I guess that makes sense though.
I lied on the table and started to cry again, not sobbing just a little lip quivering, I told the nurse not to take is personal, I just cry. So they asked a lot of questions about stuff I can't remember but I woke up, wondering where the box of Imaginecse product was and that I needed it to be received. He He the GT Crew will get a kick out of that. Then I wanted to know where my hubby was, and I sure let them know I was is real pain, keep those drugs coming.
So here I lay, on the couch with a laptop not bad. I have been in pain off and on, but I am keeping the pain pills coming. My theory is you recover faster by having the pain gone and sleeping all day for a few days.
A lot of our friends are helping out with the kids and we are so grateful thank you thank you.
The area where Mr. Grumpy Gallbladder was does not hurt of feel like there is a empty feeling, the incisions hurt, especially by my belly button. Shelby has informed me that I can not lift my shirt it makes her tummy hurt. If I had my camera I would take pics, I am sure you are all grateful I don't.
I also wanted to thank, my hubby, mom and all the rest of the family that is pulling together to help us. We love you and feel so appreciative.

Other pics, warning may seem graphic to some!

2008-08-20T19:03:00.001-07:00

I will be having the using laparoscopic surgical techniques; meaning the Dr. will not cut me open all the way just a few little incisions.

Good By Mr. Gallbladder, I won't miss you..

2008-08-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the big day, I go under the knife and have my gruppy Gallbladder removed for ever. He has not been good to me, I am a little apprehensive, about going "under" and a little nervous about the pain that will follow. And also worried if I will feel like something is missing, you know like there will be a little more room between my liver and stomach. I have been meditating lately and becoming "aware" of my bodies exsitance (I know that sounds werid to some of you) it's a chakra thing, anyway. Well, thinking and talking about it only makes me emotional. There are always risks involved with surgery no matter how minor, so hopefully all will go well, just send me positive thoughts tomorrow between 7:00 am and 9:00 am. If I have alot of people thinking good things for me, well the universe is bound to listen right?
If you are interested in knowing what they will be doing tomorrow check it outHere
There is a lot of info, out there and I have tried to read all of it so I am totally educated, but I still feel like I have know idea. They will be testing my gallbladder for other things, like cancer and some other diseases, when they take it out. The chances of having any of those are slim. Untill tomorrow night.....

First Day part two.

2008-08-20T18:13:00.000-07:00

Kelsey first day of school went well, she had PE, recess and loves to eat hot lunch (that makes it so much easier for me). She is excited about her new classmates and the little boy she was "in love" with sits in front of her in class. Today was day #2 and she was equally excited about going. Unfortunately no pictures, my camera is still MIA, and I believe is being held hostage (i am kidding). Yes, she did where her "Chuck" as I was informed they are called, now that I know the cool lingo, I will pass on the knowledge to my 6 year old! Thanks Brandi

First Day of School - 1st Grade

2008-08-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

Well, today my oldest goose went off the 1st grade, and boy did I cry my eyes out. It was such an emotional day, especially since the teacher, really scared Kelsey while she stood in line for the door to open. Mrs. Weeks, said all eyes on me and well, my gooses eyes tend to wander (she gets that from her dad) and Mrs. Weeks had to walk over to her and tell her that she was talking and that when she was talking, all eyes should be on her. I thought she might cry, but, I may have thought this because I was crying.
We started the day early, so excited to wear our new clothes and shoes. Kelsey picked out the red converse shoes. Don't they look so cute!

Her breakfast request was pancakes with "snow", while she ate we talked about who she was excited to see and who she wasn't! And of course wondering what the other girls shoes looked liked, I am not quite sure were she get this shoe fetish. She has yet to return from school today so I will post all the good info, then. Shelby isn't to thrilled that sister is away for so long during the day, we are having lots of mommy and baby time. I know she isn't my baby but, she is.

Recipe Box with Teresa Collins paper

2008-08-14T20:05:00.000-07:00

Here is the box I started yesterday with the new Teresa Collins Bon Appetit line; I love the black and green. I threw in some soft peach that matches some fot he title cards, just to give it a little bit more color. I love this line, and I think I might just make another one in a few days.

I think I might have project burn out two in two days is a lot for me, especially since Stephen is working, and I just bought Eclipse, the thrid book in the Twilight series!!! He He He, Raimi and Eve, bet you can guess what I will be doing tonight!

Something to Check out

2008-08-14T11:23:00.000-07:00

My friend from Green Tangerinesis having a giveaway, check out Raimi.
Bye the way, Shelby did a #2 in the potty for the first time, my hubby knows me all to well, and asked "did you take a picture"?, I said no, I just might next time, of her not the #2!

So Cute...thanks to Samantha Walker!

2008-08-13T20:06:00.001-07:00

A few months ago I came across This.
After trying to copy it myself by just the pictures which is totally hard I might add, I emailed Samantha Walker and soon, she sent me some info and now I finished this

I am working on another box with this line. Check back again to see the finished product!!

Been Tagged.....

2008-08-13T19:45:00.000-07:00

So this is a first, and to be honest I don't know if I read 7 blogs that I can tag, because franky (short for frankly) they don't know me. Is that weird? Do you just tag someone you don't know to get to know them? hummmm, I will have to think about that so, I will tag who I know and who knows me!!!
Thanks Brandigirl

7 Random:
1.I LOVE looking for seashells, will spend hours, have spent hours and plan to spend more hours on the beautiful island of Kauai in January.
2.I'm addicted to diet and exercise information, but have a hard time getting to the gym.
3.One of my favorite tv shows is the news
4.I adore Journey
5.I hate gum snapping.
6.I have 3 printers on my desk, 1 for pics, 1 for scanning & pics & 1 for everything else, and no i will not get rid of any of them.
7.I am a huge pack rat....just ask Stephen.

Here are some people I know (some I don't)
that I think are really groovy.

Eve
Samantha Walker - she does stuff for Creative Imaginations

ok, I am totally lame, so I only have two. Hopefully I will work on that and if you are reading this and you don't know me, leave a comment and say hi, so I have more blog "friends"

Bo Bunny Board Book

2008-08-12T09:06:00.001-07:00

So I have had this Board Book for a really long time, and only recently did I pull it out and start playing with it. I am really new to altered stuff, so bare with me, I am learning on how to "embellish" I am really just super plain jane so this is a first for me. The pictures are of my sweet little niece Kaeleana she is so angelic like and fun to take pictures of. I used the Cloud 9 paper, with matching embellishments. It was fun, I think I will try to do the Beach one next.

These books are so popular, take a look at what GT has Look for Sneak Peak
Every week, well (not lately) I will be posting the Sneak Peak at Green Tangerines, so take a look every Friday.

My new favorite Things

2008-08-10T23:33:00.001-07:00

Ok, here are some of the things I LOVE right now.

These are some of American Crafts wonderful new products, picked some up at my favorite LSS and Cosmo Cricket, this Hat is my friends, Steph Chapmans, I LOVE IT!
Last but totally not least: THIS IS
my new ultimate favorite....thanks to Raimi,I am completely obsessed with this series. It is about Vampires, but with a few twists and boy Edward the main character, sweeps me off my feet. Wow, is the only word I can use to express my love for this series, the first one is Twilight, then New Moon, I am in search of the third Eclipse and then Breaking Dawn. The movie Twilight will be coming out December 12, and you can bet I will be waiting in line, like a crazy mad woman.
I read Twilight in two nights, and Eclipse in four uninterrupted hours,mind you it was 4:30am when I went to bed. Even if you don't care to read about Vampires or don't like science fiction, it is beyond that. It is fantastic! I should be the poster child for middle aged partially SAHM who read this book!

Soccer Soccer Soccer

2008-08-10T23:27:00.000-07:00

Well we took the plunge. I signed Kelsey up for Soccer, we have had two practices,so far and I think she really likes it. Stephen and I joke that she is the most polite player in the WORLD! She will kick the ball run after it, but, she will pass it to anyone that wants it "to give them a turn" even if they are on the opposite team. I have raised my goose right. With the best manners. Thanks mom and Rich, you would be proud of me.
Kelsey has so much fun, we are anticipating the Soccer "weekends" to start. Good bye Saturdays.

Meredith is a Wife

2008-08-10T23:18:00.000-07:00

My friend from work Meredith, got married last Friday. I haven't seen the pics but I am sure she was an amazingly beautiful bride. I was lucky enough to be invited to her bridal shower a couple of weeks ago and It was so fun. I even won the first game we played...ironically it was "how well you know Meredith". hummm, I have only known her for 6 months, I chalked it up to my VERY good memory and listening skills. My girls were a little shy, but the company was great, there were a few friends from work and I was able to put faces to the names that Meredith talks about.

Meredith is the one not dressed in the "potty paper" wedding gown---that would be Taryn from work.

I love my "work" friends, they are the best, wonderful, most amazingly strong creative women I have met.
Meredith - I love you!!! I hope your special day was wonderful and Brian is a lucky man.

Little things.

2008-08-10T23:10:00.001-07:00

When Stephen was gone playing with the kids, I worked on these things. Not totally great, but I am happy with them.

First one was for Meredith's little goose, second was for Mom's 24Th wedding anniversary wow, and the third for my friend Lauren at work, she still has yet to receive it.
I am working on another project and it is taking me a little long to finish due to no time. So, more to come later...until then look At my favorite placefor my favorite things.

Aww now I am really jealous

2008-07-31T00:25:00.000-07:00

Stephen emailed me these pictures tonight of the girls at a restaurant called Fire and Ice, They had so much fun. Keep in mind that my hubby forgot his camera and he used his cell phone for the pics. Don't my girls look so happy, I am so glad they have such a wonderful daddy. Boy are they lucky, and so am I!

I am alone all alone....

2008-07-30T23:06:00.000-07:00

Yes, my family left me for beautiful Tahoe two days ago. I am secretly smiling. Some of you know that I am in heaven, but to be quite honest...i miss my crazy family, and being crazy alone isn't to much fun.
I have made way to many *extra* trips to Green Tangerines, and when I mean extra, I mean EXTRA (sorry babe). Apparently I am filling the void, with paper, thickers, ribbon and ink. But I made fun things! I will post later when they are given to the people I adore.
Stephen and the girls are having such a good time, eating out and playing on the beach, wish I was there.......
But I am having so much fun at work too, we have been getting in lots of CHA products that makes me a very busy girl! But I love to see the faces of the Creative Crew when we get really cool stuff, it makes me smile.
On to another dreadful topic....Weight ugh, I am struggling so much this week, and I have 161 more days until Kauai...that means 161 days to lose weight! That is 23 weeks, so I know I said this before, but this time I am going to record my weight loss. Wish me luck and if you want to join in - I would love it.....
If you want to see some really cool weight loss check this out...Donna Downey. She looks so amazing you will need to scroll down to Big Reveal.

Phulps Family Reunion

2008-07-27T10:09:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we had our 2nd anuual Phulps family reunion at Lake Minden. I packed up the kiddos and set out for a fun HOT day with my wonderful family. Grandpa and his brother Dude (Louie) and sister Beverly got all the family members together and set up this really fun party. Aunt Helen's family and Uncle Bob's family was there also. We met cousins that we didn't know we had and it was fun to see all the little ones play. Uncle Herman and Aunt Bev are really into the family history (they are our Family Historians) and they put together so much information that I was a little overwhelmed and excited.
The pictures at the top are obviously the first Phulps with the spelling that remains today. Volp and Fulp were the original way to spell it, so you can imagine all the hard work that went into finding all the original Volps, and Fulps. ugh, a huge project that I am glad it was pretty much handed to me to add to my list of people.

Boating

2008-07-27T09:52:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, a day after our anniversary we went boating with some wonderful friends of ours, the Chapmans. We spent the day playing paddle ball, football, and exploring the lake with the kiddos. Stephen and I played paddle ball for an hour or so and I have to say out of the two of us; I am the one that tries the hardest. I don't think his feet ever left the ground. We ran into some of our friends on the lake too, which made it so much special. We opted not to go home for dinner and went to a restaurant and had a yummy dinner with fantastic company. Thanks Chapmans for a really great day. The kids were good considering they had been in the sun all day running and playing. Steph and I had a really good Hard Cider Pomegranit, yummy. I had forgotten that Cider was more milder than a good beer, especially with my problematic tummy.