spunkyCUTEchicKNITS

Check Your Stress Level

2012-01-12T10:00:00.005-07:00

click on link to check YOUR stress.

my score was 504.

I better find a way to get it down. I know there are people out there that have worse troubles than me so I dont know what my excuse is for all this stress.

I LOVE this...

2012-01-11T09:00:00.006-07:00

Well, I had to vent yesterday. When that happens I get out my knitting projects.
I am knitting again and this time I am knitting another sweater. I am hoping to be done by Sunday so I can wear it. It is this pattern.

"Natural Sweater"

What Is Real?

2012-01-10T11:43:00.001-07:00

What I felt was REAL
What I wanted was REAL
What I did was REAL
What I got wasn’t REAL
What I gave didn’t matter

What was REAL was hurt
What was REAL was lies
What was REAL was meanness
What was REAL was abandonment
What was REAL was no trust
What was REAL was someone else took MY place
What was REAL was you used me

What is REAL is I have feelings
What is REAL is I have my morals
What is REAL is I always survive
What is REAL is deserve better
What is REAL is you have to live with your lies
What is REAL is YOU ARE GONE

Who Gives A "HOOT"

2011-12-06T14:16:00.002-07:00

I do, I do...
I have been so busy crocheting these. I have made 15 of these and they are all so unique. I have made two other type of hats that are completely different but am waiting for photos of them so I can show you.

Freedom

2011-10-28T10:45:00.001-07:00

So I have been debating whether to post my experiences or keep them private. I feel too many emotions and dont want to be too real or anything. I dont have that knack for writing like some people do. I feel that I do need to document but am afraid it will be too raw. So I wait until its not raw anymore and then go back and forth wondering if I should. I really feel that people are judging me and thinking I am a drama queen so I dont blog. Any thoughts?

As of October 12th my criminal case was dropped. Now this is a miracle in my eyes. Every person in the court building that had ANYTHING to do with my case helped me so much. I dont know why but every person I talked to whether it was at the counter clerk or courtroom, helped me. So lucky me I was able to walk out and not have to worry about this ever again.

So I am back home now, I have my freedom. I have a stronger testimony, a new church calling, and I have a whole new outlook on life.

Sisters And A Grammy

2011-09-06T16:10:00.001-07:00

Bridgette (the youngest sister), Caryn (the oldest sister), Mikki (the middle sister), and Great Grandma Gabie (the 100 year old princess).

Happy 100

2011-09-02T09:42:00.001-07:00

On an exciting note Bridgie Pooh's Great Grandma is 100 years old. We are going to go to Holbrook for her Birthday Bash tonight. I am so excited to see her and the family. They have treated me as their own for 28 years now. I love these people.

So Grandma Gabie is the sweetest, tinyist, Littlest, kindest, funniest, and spiritual lady I know. I have had the priviledge of being loved by her for a very long time. Lucky me. My favorite thing is when she asks me to sleep with her. I could just hug her forever.

I love you Grandma Gabie. I know you wanted to go to Heaven now for a long time but there is a reason you are here. You are precious!!!

Im Learning

2011-09-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

So today I had to go to the court again for the third time. While I was doing this stuff (that is taking way too much time out of my day) I realize one thing. Somewhere somehow I am being given more strength than I knew I had. I am learning so much about myself and to NEVER give up. I am learning that I do have rights. I am learning that I have the best people in my life possible. It is so easy to give up.

I believe everything happens for a reason and when this is done, I will be an advocate and I will empower people, male or female to NEVER give up. One day my story is going to be heard. For now, I am working very hard to restore my life and get back home. I miss my bed, I miss my home.

Rock Bottom

2011-08-31T09:29:00.002-07:00

I don't know where to begin. So here goes. I am getting a divorce. I am very sad. But I am very relieved. I know that it is what is best for me.

I have just always wanted to be loved and feel special. I found someone who I thought was my whole heart. Unfortunately I was not his. I have been dragged through the gutter and still making the best of a nightmare situation.

I cannot go into detail as there will be many court hearings and it is not pretty.

It has shaken my faith in everything. I find myself crying all the time. I find myself being so strong I can move mountains to get things done. I feel betrayed by so many. I find myself so grateful I want to give back tenfold. I find myself just utterly destroyed. I try to remember that the Saviour suffered this for me a very long time ago and cried for me and felt this pain for me.

I am so embarrassed and humiliated. I know Im not a lone but I am...

Part Two: What Im Diggin

2011-05-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

People ask me all the time what I use in my hair or where I get my clothes. Here is some advise and some information what products I use.

First of all if you find something that works for you dont change it. There are times when something you like is not available anymore. And it makes you sad...real real sad. No, it's more like annoyed.

Here is one of my new favorite product.
I love it for many reasons. First it holds your hair all day and you can actually run your fingers through your hair. It smells nice and has a good hold with out being stiff.

Then we have the sunless tan spray. this stuff goes on super even. It looked great and I could keep applying it. It only gets two shades lighter. I usually buy this in the summer for a different look. I dont use it year round. Its a great alternative to getting skin cancer. It smells good too.

This is my all time favorite mascara now. I love the brush. It makes my eyelashes the shape and length that I want them. Then I keep adding coats until I get the thickness I want. The brush different lengths in different areas and its amazing. I love it.

I started with these because they are basics.

My Lulu

2011-05-25T16:54:00.000-07:00

Im documenting this so if you want to stop reading you can. Its basically just for my poor memory.

My husband called me today to say tiny little dog Lulu is very sick and foaming at the mouth. She is just laying around. I am so sad. I dont care to have animals but always seem to get suckered into having one. I am so attached to that tiny little dog. I started crying and everyone teases me how much I love that dog even though I do not want pets. Anyway she seemed to snap out of it and was eating and walking around. I just felt desperate that i would lose her and it was a very sad feeling.

Things Im Diggin: Part 1

2011-05-24T10:30:00.005-07:00

First up Im diggin having my husband all to myself for a couple of weeks. He has been spoiling me rotten. Ive gotten new shoes, exercise pants, shirts, sunglasses, a cruiser bike, and Im sure there is more.

There are no pictures of the shoes...trust me they are so pretty. I love anything beaded, especially purses. Shoes will do fine though.

First up these sunglasses are so HOT

Ok then I got this bike in a burgandy and tan. It is soooo cute and I got the wicker basket to go on the front. My husband found a royal blue and cream color bike. He thought it would be romantic if we rode bikes together in the evening. He is so cute and I was so excited...until...he made me ride across the street to Walgreens. First I was freaking out because it was night, then I was trying to get used to my new ride, and I thought I was gonna die. It was too far for my first ride. But, I survived and it was fun.

Sock It To Me!

2011-04-26T11:12:00.000-07:00

So I said I have been knitting and its true...I just never take pictures of anything. I'll be putting that on my list of goals this year or Im getting spanked. I'm raising kids again for crying out loud.

My first FO of 2011 is a pair of socks. I was waitin a long time to knit socks because I had an attitude about them. I just was not impressed and looky here, I dont have to do what everyone else is doing...do I? I have bought sock yarn and done nothing with it. Well I couldnt find all the supplies I needed for projects I really wanted to make. Since all my sewing and knitting is packed away until I get the space I need cleaned out I had to make do with what I had access to. But I had those DPN's (double pointed needles) hangin around and started going to town on some striped yarn. I didnt like what I saw because the needles were too big. So I went in search of some brown, pink, and cream yarn I forgot I had. It reminds me of neapolitan ice cream. I started knitting and fell in love with making socks and the yarn.

Ring Ring...Hello There Beautiful

2011-04-18T18:45:00.000-07:00

Rings rings, I got wedding rings. They're beautiful. I used my promise ring when Bobby and I got married. I really didnt care to have rings but he INSISTED.

After four months he surprised me at work with them. They are so beautiful and exactly what I wanted. I think they were meant to be mine because I did choose rings but the sales people where we went were being shadey. That was several months ago.We got our money back and I just figured that was the end of that.

Well I didnt know it but my husband went to 15 jewelry stores looking for rings. They didnt have anything he thought I would like. Now thats love and so so sweet. Finally the last store he went in he saw THE RINGS. He asked the sales lady if he could look at it. He said I want this one. Then he saw the price and started to back away. The lady told him you know these are listed on sale starting today. He not only found THE RINGS but it was HALF OFF. ( I think it was still too pricey) The lady was shocked he was buying it right then and there. I was so totally surprised, flattered, and smitten. I love that man way more than the rings but...Im not giving these rings up ever.

A "Little" Sewing

2011-04-12T10:13:00.002-07:00

I am so excited to have 6 little girls to sew for. They range in age 7 yrs to 1 yr. I have picked out patterns and fabric. It has been so much fun. Here are the patterns I picked.

This pattern has so much potential to add and embelish. This can be shortened just a bit for leggings. Target has some that match the fabric I bought.

This is the fabric I bought for the pattern above.

Here is another pattern that Im on the fence with. I really like the top and shorts. This is mostly for the little tiny girls.

Anyway time is running away with me. We have an 8th grade graduation in 5 weeks. I cant believe the stuff they have to have. Pictures, dress, yearbook, swimming suit for their end of the year Water Park Day. I am sure I missed something... Oh inviting people. My House is no where ready.

LAZY LAZY BLOG ALERT

2011-04-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

I'M LAZY...there peeps, I said it. I have been a lazy blogger. I have had a lot to blog about but haven't. Here are my excuses.
I am newly married and am raising kids again YEAR ROUND. Two teenagers and an 11year old.
One makes us all get up early to take her to basketball practice.YUCK.
I have to do my fair share of cookin now. I am a fabulous cook and sometimes they don't like it. NOT NICE.
I have a husband that likes all my attention. I LOVE IT.
My grown daughter knows me best and doesn't bother me anymore. I MISS HER (and love her) Oh wait she doesnt keep me from blogging.

Anyway there are several posts coming... wanna know how I know? Cuz they are already written. Ha take that blog world. And yes I am very sassy lately!!

Im Sendin Some Lovin

2011-02-12T10:52:00.004-07:00

That's right baby. I have been knittin and I have been knittin a lot. First up a FO (finished Object) for 2010.

February Lady Sweater.
Specifics:
Yarn: Cascade 220 purchased from the Dancing Ewe (awesome company)
Color: Imperial Purple and BIG black buttons
Size: Medium
Modifications: Made the Sleeves Shorter and changed the original buttons I had on it. (they were uuugaly)
This is the second FLS that I knit. I entered it in the Arizona State Fair. I won a second place red ribbon. I never wear the first one because it's too big. I didnt really like the second one either. I realized that it just didnt look good on me. It was a little too drapey and the color was not hittin my fancy either. So I am sending it to my baby sister with my love. I put my heart into every stitch and it is beautiful... or for a better word its gorgeous.

ps: update on my sister She is a living, walking, breathing, miracle, and the perfect example of the healing power of the preisthood.

Heart to Heart

2011-01-20T11:24:00.002-07:00

Here is where I journal and today is not good. My heart is broken. My little sister had a heart attack this morning and just got out of surgery. They said her two front arteries on the top of her heart were 95% blocked. She will be able to function and get up to 45% usage out of it bt that is all if things go right.

See my littlest sister has been angry with me for a few reasons. I have not seen her since 2001. She took her kids away and took them without any goodbyes. It is really hard because I feel like I havent been a good sister. I have hurt her and I am sorry.

I hope one day I get to tell her.

Im Sorry Bea!!!!!!!!!

The Mrs....

2010-12-26T20:33:00.000-07:00

Life has been crazy for me since August. Since August I have become Mrs Romo. Thats right I got married, hitched, taken away by my knight and shining armour. We have spent a whole year together and we had set a date for 01/01/11. We were hoping to have a big wedding and the closer it got the more we realized that it just wasnt going to happen for us. We decided to take a break from Facebook updates and a break from all the questions. We just set the date for 12/03/10 and made it happen. It was very small with our children and parents. (his parents couldnt make it. His father is very sick)

I asked a good friend to play the violin. He is a musical genius. The friend and I have shared a bond. He went with my daughter and I for a few days to a family reunion and we share a love of music. I admire his talent imensely. Anyway the kid owes me lots of favors and said he would get off work early just for me. He played The Prayer for me as I walked in.

My Friends served us dinner and bought the cake for us. It was so yummy and appreciated.

For our wedding night we took the kids bowling and went for Pizza. It was so much fun.
Here is my favorite picture of the wedding.

Of course there were several others I loved...

I just cant do this...or can I?

2010-12-20T13:25:00.001-07:00

So now I have step children and I have moved 10 years of sewing and knitting paraphernalia into large garbage bags. I believe I have 8 large bags of fabric and 5 bags of yarn. My heart is broken.

I Love to sew and I used to buy fabric because I just couldn't walk out of the store without it. I realised this was a problem and grounded myself back in 1996. I will only buy what I need like zippers, buttons, trip, etc. Once in a while I will allow myself to look at fabric and I will purchase something. I have done pretty well. But I do have a patient at work who travels to Beijing and Shanghai. She will purchase $20.00 of fabric and hunt me down at the clinic. She does this once a year. So I have some very special pieces. sniff...sniff. So I have nowhere for my sewing table or machines to reside.

My yarn is what I treasure most. If I want to start a new sweater then I have to figure out what bag its in.

The kids thought they could just bag this stuff up and get it out of the way. It was more complicated than that. HA ha ha. I had trouble even bagging it up. I can get pretty protective of my stuff if someone wants me to get rid of it or throw it out. Its quite comical because I have a project for each and every piece. (except for the fabric that has been given to me)

Two things have come from this #1) I feel free having this stuff put away.
#2) I have learned I really don't need it. I just want it.

So right now I will continue to finish what I have started and not worry about digging in a bag.

p/s I just found out my daughter is moving out and I will take over her room. WoooHooo!!!!!

My Mister Wonderful

2010-10-01T12:41:00.006-07:00

I have been a brat lately and a little stressed out. Bobby is now in the learning stages of what he can and cant do to make me mad. Ha Ha Ha Ha. It's not always funny at the time.

So I decided while I am finally done teaching him some lessons, I need a reminder of why I love him.

1.) He always makes me comfortable. It was like that on the first date. I felt like I was finally home. (Hard to explain that one.)
2.) He has high standards and morals.
3.) We have talked every single day, for hours, for a year now. ITS BEEN A YEAR since our first date.
4.) He is very giving.
5.) He is super cute and handsome.
6.)He prays everyday. I could use his example.
7.) He brings me brunch every Thursday or Friday. Its loaded to the hilt too.
8.) Every Thursday or Friday he puts a love note in my brunch bag.
9.) He wants to give me everything even though we cant afford it yet.
10.) He asked me how I felt about being married for eternity.
11.) He is the first to appologize.
12.) He is very humble. (my favorite quality about him)
13.) He laughs until his sides hurt when Im funny. (my second favorite thing about him.)
14.) I promised I would not tell anyone he sings love songs to me. (shhhh keep that a secret from him) He begged me to sing for him and now he never sings unless I ask him to.
15.) I absolutely love it when he does because his whole heart is in it. He is so sincere.

Im gonna keep him. I will just keep on with the lessons as needed.

You Are In Your Forties You know...

2010-09-26T01:21:00.001-07:00

Oh my word...I got invited to go the park on Thursday night with my hunnie and the kids. I DIDN'T KNOW I was going to have to play basketball if I went. We played for an hour, it was hot, I couldnt breathe, I thought I was going to wet my pants. The breathing issue went away (mind over matter), I started to enjoy it, we started getting rough, and I only scored 6 points. Mind you, it was the forty something year olds along with the 9 yr old, against the pre-teen kids we played for an hour. Talk about a good workout.

I thought I might not get any sleep, I thought I wouldnt be able to move in the morning, I seriously thought I would be down a pound or two. Well, I slept really good, I felt great except for my foot was hurting in a weird place, and I was up one pound. What the heck is up with that?

Well... us older folks beat those punks~!!

Not What you Think, "Its Not Fair"

2010-09-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

So...ever since I was a little girl I have loved going to the Fair. I love seeing the exhibits and always wanted to enter. I never had the confidence and I am terrible with deadlines, I panic, I procrastinate, I give up, and decide who cares.
I started a sweater about 3 weeks ago that I really wanted to make. It is beautiful and an imperial purple color. I knew exactly what I wanted to wear with it. Well I decided to enter it in the fair. I actually buckled down and filled out the entry form and finished it last night. I will be turning it in this weekend. The only thing I dont like are the buttons I used, they are wooden, and they are all I had. So I probably wont win. But I am super excited that I did this. I didnt get a picture because I am going out of town and Bridge is turning it in for me. Here is the pattern picture.

Here is the one I made a year ago. I loved it but, I didnt love it. It was too big and the yarn was disappointing. Well then I lost 50 lbs and I dont even want to try to look at it much less try it on. So I might give it away and I know exactly who wants it.

So...Life has been interesting lately as I am marrying into a family of three preteens. I have heard "It's not fair" way too many times. I really wanted it to stop. So what to do? I didnt want to snap ( I really did though), I didnt want to make enemies, I didnt want them to hate me. So I gave what their dad calls "a pep talk" with a few insights on the word and what it means. So far I have not heard that word in a week and a half. Because you know what??? It wasnt fair. Ha Ha Ha.

Just What I Needed

2010-08-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

I went through the motions Sunday morning getting ready for church, cleaning myself up, bathing, makeup, and hair. I was not having a good morning and was forcing myself to go. I opted for a comfy, baggy, easy dress. I got myself to the car, without incident, with the ice cream maker, I had to return to my dear friend, who helped me out of a bind. (do comas keep this from being a run on sentence?)

I get to church, walk in, and shake hands with 5 men at the door. I go plop myself down hoping to be inconspicuous and relax. I'm just sitting there minding my own business feeling down and a little angel walks up behind me and taps me on the shoulder. My Tessa gives me the biggest hug and grin imaginable. I melted. I couldn't get enough of her. At that moment I snapped out of it, sorta. I got smiles from Zachary, Collin tapped me on the shoulder and smiled, the baby behind me wanted me to hold her, Dakota got TOLD to come sit with me, and Nor wanted to sit with me and fill my shirt with stickers.

While I was feeling the love I felt the love of our Saviour through the Young Women's program. The talks were amazing, the songs were beautiful, and the Spirit was strong. I am so grateful that I went to church out of habit and not out of my mood for the day. I needed that experience and the Lord knew it.

Birthday Girl

2010-07-21T19:51:00.000-07:00

I figured I better post my birthday before I forget what happened. I love journalling this way. I woke up and had a birthday card with a gift card for a pedicure. Then later that day I got home and found it clean and decorated. My DH and fiance planned it. He brought over subs with all the fixins and a strawberry filled cake. I got a huge bouquet of flowers and they even had my mom come over. It was so nice. Thank you for the birthday everyone!

Apron Give Away

2010-07-07T09:03:00.001-07:00

Holiday With Matthew Mead

(click on link above to enter)

Are you preparing for the holidays yet? Maybe this contest will help motivate us. How cute is this apron?

I am doing some early Christmas knitting.
Im making stockings for everyone but will recuit help from my two girls or... maybe everyone can make their own. Boys can sew too. (Bobby said he would learn to crochet, I HEARD HIM.)

What do you do early to prepare for Christmas? Or do you do the last minute rat race? Tell me!

Fourth Of July In Holbrook

2010-07-05T11:53:00.000-07:00

We went to Holbrook and enjoyed going to Sacrament meeting with my dad and step mom. She bore her testimony and it was touching as she reflected on the sacrifice her son is making for all of us in Iraq in the middle of the war. She herself was an immigrant from Germany as a teenage girl. She is grateful to be an American citizen. It was good to see my dad. I love him.

We went to my best friends house to see her and all her brothers and sisters were there. I used to babysit all of them but the oldest. I was only able to spend an hour with her but Bobby and I enjoyed going back in time and he got to visit with her brother. They are such welcoming people. They loved me unconditionally as I was growing up and spent most of my days with them from age 13 to 18. I didnt have my camera with me and could kick myself for it.

We went to the firemans BBQ, Oh My Gosh was it GOOD, and it was all you could eat. None of us could eat seconds.

That little town put on one heck of a fireworks show. I have seen it a few times and they do a great job. My favorite part was eating, visiting, and running into people I knew. It was so nice.

Its seems like we got to spend a second with each person but it was wonderful. I commented to Bobby that this is how it will feel in Heaven seeing people we love again, just another chance I had to bear my testimony about what we believe.

I've Been Busy

2010-06-28T10:44:00.000-07:00

So much has been going on. I am getting married JANUARY 1, 2011.
I have been sewing and wore my $4.00 skirt yesterday with my store bought $5.00 sweater.
I have been swimming a lot to try and tone up. I think I see a difference especially a little tan going on. I have been trying to lose weight so far I have lost about 60 lbs. give and take 10 lbs. I need a new jump start on the diet thing no matter what I do I am still at that weight. I am down 4 sizes though.
I have finished a knitting project and am sewing it together. I think I ruined it ( Im sick about it cuz knittin can be expensive.) but it will be great for our move up north(Show Low) once I am married. I am almost finished with another sweater but I lost the last skein of yarn and I only have 5 inches left to go, UGH!!!
I have now idea what to do with the house. I want to sell it. I need to borrow a truck to take some furniture, fabric, and clothes to D.I.

I Said Yes!

2010-06-01T11:36:00.004-07:00

It was not your traditional proposal. I have no clue how to be engaged, ok? I have to be reminded that we are engaged and to say fiance. My Bobby has to keep reminding me. Im having a hard time wrapping my head around it and all the comes with it. It is very overwhelming. Im gonna be a what? Wife? Im gonna have a husband? Woah...

So, there is so much to do and think of and to decide. What about the house, I would like to sell it but would just be giving it away, I would like to rent it out, but only to people I know. I would like to have a wedding but never planned on having one. I have an idea and he has an idea, they are not the same ideas. I dont know where to start or to find the funds. So I need to catch my breath, I think.

Anyway, Bobbys family gave us their blessing and cried. This weekend Bobby is asking my dad and Im gonna cry. Craaazzzy!

Things That Made Me Smile

2010-05-19T16:34:00.001-07:00

1. I got to swim a lot this week
2. I forgave someone
3. Bridgette mothers me. It is so cute.
4. Josh had the lead in the 4th grade school play. Quite funny no one could go so I snuck in.
5. I took Celeste shopping for a new dress she is playing in band for 8th grade graduation.
6. Robert asked to help me all weekend and is still doing it.
7. I am at my new job
8. I got to eat at Carolina's
9. My boyfriend thinks Im a hoot.
10. I might get to go out of town next week... Yahoo!!!

To Facebook or Not To Facebook

2010-05-17T12:35:00.004-07:00

So those closest to me know that I have had a love affair with facebook. I have been in heaven meeting up with old friends and classmates. I have been able to meet a special man, meet up with very dear friends who were like family to me growing up, and a few people you forgot about but were delighted to reconnect with, and last but not least the friends you already have who give pertinent immediate information we need.

In the last few months I have been very occupied doing other things. Since I am rarely on Facebook it started to lose its appeal. Anyone who reads this will be shocked as I spent absurd amounts of time on there. I have seen the ugly side to this and am not sure what to make of it. I have some people who really are just acquaintances from my home town or school who are back stabbing me for no reason, I have people who bash others views, I have people who bash the one thing I love the most and that is the gospel. Now the question is should I just block these people or stick up for what I know is right? My first thought was to tell them off. My second thought was to just block them. My third thought was to address issues in a very nice way without offending. My idea was to be the bigger person and maybe this will peak interest in the gospel, change a view to be more accepting of others views, or to show hurtful people we believe forgiveness is essential to our own growth and happiness.

Anyway, its just goes to show that people dont think before they write. There are people from all walks of life on my friends list and I accepted them unconditionally because I care about each one individually because that is who Machelle truly is...!

Its Great To Be Twenty-Three

2010-05-12T11:25:00.002-07:00

So my baby girl turned 23 May 10th. Time has flown by and at the same time it does seem so far away when I go back to the memories of her growing up. So I am writing a few things about my girl that has touched my life.

1. My baby was due on Mothers Day, May 10th.
2. My baby was born on May 10th.
3. She has always been very soft, sweet, and gentle.
4. She was always obedient.
5. She has never in her whole life asked me for anything for Christmas or Birthday, even now.
6. She has a strong testimony of Jesus Christ and his commandments.
7. She is very clear on her values and will stand up to anyone who challenges those.
8. She keeps me in line by her example.
9. She takes great care of those she loves.
10. She is a very loyal friend
11. She goes the extra mile when asked to do something for someone.
12. She works too hard
13. She is beautiful
14. She loves children
15. She takes good care of her little doggie

This girl needs a lot of love and I intend to give her more.

It's Been Half a Year

2010-04-13T12:05:00.000-07:00

Today Bobby and I have been a couple for half of a year. I CANT believe it. My life has changed so much. Six months of being treated like a queen, being told Im beautiful every single day, he writes me love songs, which I think is adorable. I have prayed for a companion like him for a very very long time. He is perfect for me. (not a perfect person, just perfect for my needs.) Its amazing how lonely I was all those years by myself, dating disasters, and feeling hopelessness. I am happy and still feel its a dream and I will wake up one day and "poof" he will be gone.

Happy Aniversary Bobby!

Things That Made Me Smile This Week

2010-04-08T15:36:00.000-07:00

1. Easter
2.Bobby, Bridgette, and kids do the darndest things
3.Tostitos Hint of Lime chips
4. I bought a workout outfit.
5. Friends who comment on my blog
6. Alyssa and Jared are having a boy
7.Work load was easy this week for once.
8. I got a pattern back that I loaned out
9. My house got semi cleaned
10. I got to try on a ring!

Easter Fun

2010-04-06T09:36:00.002-07:00

I figured I better start journaling about events before I forget them. Im getting old...

Friday night Bobby and the kids hung out watching movies, playing games, and boiled eggs.

I have an Easter tradition that the kids get the Easter bunny on Saturday and then Sunday is reserved for the REAL meaning of Easter. So Bridge woke up and got her basket before work. After they went to the Easter egg hunt the kids got their baskets. This kept them busy. They got shower gel, lotions, candy, cars, cards, and the girls got beauty stuff. Bobby liked his basket too. ( He and the girls cost more, why is that?) I talked him into taking us swimming that afternoon. Then I went with them to their church that evening. Bobby made the comment that he appreciated that I dressed nice to go to church and that I was modest. It made me feel like a good example.

Sunday we colored the eggs, ate stuffed french toast with Strawberries, cooked all day for our feast. Bridge cooked the ham, helped make the veggies, and played with the kids. Celeste did the strawberrries, made the cake, and helped me do everything. My mom came over and then when Bobby got home we all ate that evening. It was a wonderful day with good food and people I love so much.

I know this is boring to some but this is my journal and its important to me. :o)

UpDaTeS

2010-03-31T10:23:00.003-07:00

Someone...(Aahem, cough cough) accused me of not blogging. Well, so sorry about that, I'm not that interesting right now, really I'm not. So here are some updates I CAN share...

1. Bridge got a new job at Beauty Brands. I am soooo proud of her. I just love her.

2. I have been trying to finish the Candy Stripe Sweater but it is slow going. I think I may sell her, Im not sure I like the style on me, we'll see. The size can be modified after Im done, thank goodness.

3. I have been kind of spring cleaning and getting rid of stuff. I have an oak entertainment center if anyone is interested. It has a matching book shelf that needs a screw and bracket and its good as new. ( I have them just didnt have my electric screw driver to make the job easier) I have several things to take to D.I. I have scraps I have saved to quilt someday and they are quirky prints and floral mostly but I just dont want to hang on to stuff anymore. Ok this was a book...rambling!

4. I will start my new job that will be less stressful and offer some peace I have been needing for the last 6 months. I am suprised I havent gotten shingles or some ailment like that from this job.

5. Bobby and I are better than ever. We are getting serious so not sure what suprises I will be letting you in on just yet. I will give you three clues. I will cry very hard and its not why you think, trust me. I will be happy and sad. I will have more than what I have always wanted which involve three things combined in one. GREAT deal. LOL

Im Not Afraid or I Just Don't Want To?

2010-03-09T08:09:00.003-07:00

Well I have all of the back of Candy Stripe Jacket and all of the right front. I was so proud but sure the directions were wrong yet I persevered. After completing the front right panel I realized that I was right. I was knitting it wrong (the pattern was right and I dont know how I missed it). I have to rip the entire thing to the bottom. Anyone who knows me knows I am not afraid to frog. I just dont want to. Ha Ha Ha. My goal was to have a sweater done in one week. Oh well...

Awww Supported My Addiction

2010-03-05T12:17:00.007-07:00

I bought yarn and it has been a long time, I think. I guess if I cant remember then it has been a long time. I found a great sale over at the Dancing Ewe yarns website. I had a particular sweater in mind and am so happy with the colors I might have to order more, especially because the staff at the Dancing Ewe yarn are so nice and helpful I had a question about colors coordinating. They sure went the extra mile both times I called and followed up with emails...So friendly!! They did this for me even though they were up to their ears in sales and shipments. THANK you Cathy you are sweet.

I am so happy to be knitting again. I have several projects finished for 2010 but quite frankly, I suck at taking pictures and posting them so I will have to post the picture of the pattern I am using. It is called the Candy Stripe Sweater.

I will leave you with a list of what I have finished knitting so far in 2010. Its a small list to others but a BIG one for me and my busy life. there may be more but I cant remember...

1.) owls sweater

2.) baby munchkin hat

3.) 2 baby visor caps

4.) 2 pairs crochet mary jane slippers

5.) 4 knit wash cloths

6.) sewn one wedding dress (not knit I know but was still a lot of work)

Im Sending You Some Spring

2010-02-16T11:09:00.003-07:00

I'm sending you some Spring!!!! I think you need it.Click on the snowman. You will get a black page. Click your mouse anywhere (& everywhere) on the page & see what happens! Better yet, click (hold down) & drag your mouse over the black page... Enjoy!!

So Fun To Crochet

2010-02-06T16:13:00.010-07:00

A few months back Diana asked to me make some baby hats for her babies photo shoot when the baby came. Of course I said yes even though my life is crazy busy. Well I finished one and then forgot about the other during the holidays. I did this one ASAP like one day. These were so much fun and just precious.

I cant wait to see pictures of baby Ty

ps:

BTW, Ty tried on the later one and he looks so cute I wanted to giggle

Thread thread thread...

2010-01-27T08:29:00.008-07:00

I have thread everywhere you look I am trying to pick it up by hand because I dont want my vacumn getting all caught up with thread. Although it would save LOTs of time and energy.

I have been busy making a wedding dress, knitting, getting a new dog, church calling that involves two events coming up shortly, being in a new relationship with kids, buying a new car for my Bridgette, and trying to keep the house clean, with all this going on. I am worn out.

The wedding dress is from this pattern. Simplicity 2498 viewB

The dress was made out of satin and I think it was beautiful. I could have gone OCD on this but didnt because she is only wearing the dress to get pictures taken in it. So I didnt serge the seams or do french seams because whats the point if no one is going to see it anyway. I would make this again because it was that flattering on her.

Hootin It Up

2010-01-19T09:21:00.006-07:00

So I finished owls sweater. I couldnt decide whether to put buttons on or not. I went with my gut and put the buttons on and I love it.

Pattern: OWLS SWEATER by Kate Davies

Size: xxl

Yarn: Rowan Tweed bought from RobinM's stash and Ebay.

Color: red/pink family with yellow and blue specks thus its called a "tweed" yarn

Modifications: I tried to make the body longer but I guess I didnt make it long enough. When I blocked it I made it longer and i like it a lot better. The neck is too open for me so I will be adding two inches to the neck this week. Also shortened the sleeves of this sweater but when I blocked it, they were too long. I am going to steam them and reshape them along with the extra two inches of the neck I will be adding.

My overall experience with this was it was great. I enjoyed using this yarn, and it was a bulky yarn which made this knit very fast, and I LOVED it more after it was washed. I will be using this yarn again. The pattern was easy to follow I ripped several times because I wasnt paying attention and... because I have been pretty preoccupied lately.

This is my first official finished knit project for 2010. Hopefully there will be a whole bunch more.

Vest Hoodie Progress

2010-01-12T06:39:00.005-07:00

I started with the back because its the biggest piece. This is a size xs.

BTW owls sweater is easier than this and I have taken the same few rows out twelve times because I cant even do the easy stuff... Ha ha ha. But it is 95% done. Hoping to wear it to church on Sunday.

A New Knit Project

2010-01-08T14:38:00.004-07:00

Im thinkin about making this for my boyfriends daughter. That just sounds weird weird weird. But I know I love her. She called me crying one night and said that she was " growing to love me like a mom". It really tore me up, wow!

This is the vest hoodie and this is the color I already have in my stash. What do you think...do you think she will like it? (Purple is her favorite color and this is more purple in real life)

Juggle

2010-01-06T11:04:00.003-07:00

Anyone want to tell me how to juggle everything? I can think of a few women who do this and make it look sooo easy.

I have been knitting (o w l s sweater) the same row for a long time now. I am almost done with owls sweater. I lost the place markers and so i had to do some calculation and frogging. Hope to have it done by Sunday.

My tentative goals for the new year are:
1. get married
2. more knitting
3. more sewing
4. keep the house cleaner
5. get rid of STUFF
6. have an actual vacation
7. read my scriptures more
8. be a better mom
9. shed lots of pounds
I hope you all have a Happy New Year!

The Ring

2009-12-31T06:48:00.002-07:00

This is the best I could do to get a picture of my ring.

Happy New Year

2009-12-29T11:36:00.002-07:00

It has been an event FULL 2009.

So what are your plans to ring in the new year?

Bobby and I are letting the kids make their own pizza's, playing board games, watching movies, and hanging out. I dont like being on the road on New Year's eve. Any ideas are welcome.

~I promise~

2009-12-28T08:56:00.003-07:00

Well some of you know by now, I got a promise ring for Christmas. I am so happy and excited. I apologize for no pictures, my camera is broke. I should have asked Santa for a new one.

So about my Bobby, he is super thoughtful. Being thoughtful is romantic. He makes me feel beautiful and important every single day. We laugh until our backs hurt and tears roll down our eyes. We grew up together and so we know most of the same people. His family loves me, in fact they warned him to treat me right or he is out and I'm in. His biggest goal is to have a large family, so if he adds mine and I add his, we will have 5. (you all know how I feel about kids, LOVE THEM) We have the same goals in life which is rare.

I'm pretty sure I'm gonna keep him.

Word search

2009-12-14T08:10:00.003-07:00

Click on Santa below:

SANTA

One Project After Another

2009-12-10T10:20:00.008-07:00

I have missed blogging this year. Everytime I get ready to blog my mind goes blank. So When I think of stuff I will make a better effort at taking pictures and blogging it down. LOL

I made some incredibly easy Mary Jane Slippers and didnt take a picture. They were chocolate brown and pink trim. These were for a friends birthday and they looked great. Im going to ask her to take a picture of them or I will have to make more.

I also made some baby caps that I think are adorable. I had so much fun crochetting. I have always known how but only copied. I Learned to read a pattern on all of these and it was so much fun.

I have made a Halloween costume, crochet, knitted, baked, painted blocks, organized church functions, much more, and... fell in love. (Yes Alyssa I got my blocks painted thanks for offering)

Yes I said it... I fell in love. I met a wonderful man whom I already knew my whole life. We met on Facebook. I am so thankful for how special he makes me feel, he is supportive, kind, funny, handsome, and we share the same family values and goals. He excepts my daughter with his whole heart. It is as if he was made just for me. He has three children aged 12,11, and 9. They are awesome children and he has done a great job with them. He cares for them every single day. I admire him and kind of like him quite a lot. Oh, and his name is Robert. (but I call him Bobby :o))

Remember When I Used To Blog

2009-10-08T08:50:00.003-07:00

Hey ya'll remember when I used to blog? Well the last year has been extremely busy in a good way. I cant believe I can even say that because its the first time in a long time I have no finished knitted projects. I am sad about my knitting hiatus. The amount I have been able to do is so slow.

Love all of you who still read my non existent blog!!!!

The owl sweater is coming along quite nicely... just so slow.

This Week Flu By

2009-09-05T14:59:00.003-07:00

There is a lot going on, but first things first. Thank you for your comments on my last post. It was very difficult for me to talk about but I figured I can't just write the happy upbeat stuff all the time because after all this is my journal, sort of.

(to my friend and you know who you are...in Southern Arizona, you can comment too. I think its cute you read my blog) LOL

Daughter, mom, and I took a trip up north to see my nephew who just finished his mission in Iowa. It was nice to see him and watch his younger brother play football and win that night. The next day dtr and I went to Holbrook to see dtrs great grandma who is 98yrs old. She looked very very bad and it broke our hearts to hear her sobbing as we left. We had to go back in and hug her again. (She didnt know we came back because we heard her). We found out that a favorite cousin was having a house warming party so we crashed it. It was great to see 30 people that I havent seen in twenty five years. It was a great time being spontaneous like that.

Fun turned to bedrest. Daughter got sick then got better then I got sick. I started the new job Monday and by Wednesday had pneumonia and the flu. So two trips to Urgent Care and lots of meds later I can finally get out of bed. Im hoping to be back at work Tuesday before I get canned! I will leave you with knitting progress and Im off to bed.

I have two knitting projects started and havent worked on them since our trip but I do have knitting on the needles. The o w l s sweater body is done and one sleeve. I just need the other sleeve and we can start the owls.

Hey Nurse is taking a while because Im stumped and want it perfect. (I got that from my dad and its annoying). I can't figure out one thing on it. Im 95% finished with the back. Well you saw that last post on this, that's as far as I got.

Have I ever told you all I have beautiful, talented, awesome, and super caring friends?

~I really wouldnt trade them for all the world~

Psych...

2009-08-25T18:31:00.006-07:00

Yep, I lost my job two weeks ago in a very strange way. I complained about my supervisor having an inappropriate conversation with me, in front of another employee, about the fact that she did research on morbid obese people and how they have the need to always suckle and be nurtured so its natural for humans to want to feed all the time. She also proceeded to tell me that I function at a very high level for being a morbid obese person. For example I can tie my shoes and climb the stairs. This went on for 10 minutes in front of another employee who weighs 110 lbs and is the office gossip. I called the head manager above her and this is what happened... the short version.

That same day I was told that I would be losing my job and that I should start looking. Well of course I was upset and bawling my eyes out and not wanting to do the things I have been doing in my calling (church job). I did it anyway to get my mind off things. I called the head manager the next day and asked her when my last day was going to be. She didnt know... So to make a long story short the Human Resource office didnt understand what was going on. Little do people know that I worked for all of them and the CEO of the company and... we are ALL friends. I was offered a new job today with the same pay! (if you get fired from the company I work for you can never be hired anywhere in the US)

So I believe that the head manager (the one above my manager) thought long and hard about my complaint and knew she should sugar coat what she said to me. My doctor was even mad at her and wanted to laugh in her face.

My immediate manager with the horrible communication skills has stepped down from her job.

I am now the office manager in a psychology office with four providers. I will run the whole office by my lone self.

Maybe this is a blessing in disguise but did they have to make me feel so bad???

I Went Frogging

2009-08-05T17:10:00.002-07:00

In the knitting world there is a term that is evil, sad, disappointing, and irritating. It is called frogging. To frog a knit garment you are working on means to rip it...rip it... rip it...out. Thus is sounds like a frog. Get it?

I was all the way up to the armpits on O w l s when I tried it on. IT WAS TOO BIG. I have never had anything too big before. Are you kidding me? I had to frog the entire thing.

Just so you know I love it so much that Im starting it over, I don't care. So there.

iM In LoVe...

2009-07-31T13:00:00.006-07:00

With this!

I have the perfect yarn I purchased from Robin's stash sale and the rest from Cucumberpatch in the UK. It was a great deal. ( I think I have enough for two of these)

I love when you have a whole outfit in mind from the top to bottom. That is what motivates me to knit or sew something and finish it. I cant wait, I even know what buttons Im using because then it will match my skirt and pants. I like two outfits in one! Wish me luck.

I was told this would only take a few days. But I think they have more time on their hands than I do!! My goal is two weeks, maybe... I can finish before then. I have a road trip coming up.

Hey teach is on hold until I figure out what my brain thinks Im supposed to do. After all I am a self taught knitter. Gotta not be scared and just do it... I frogged it twice for about 10 rows.

2009-07-23T13:34:00.002-07:00

A Personality Meme
I saw this on my friend Robin's blog. I thought it would be fun to play along. So consider yourself tagged if you want to play along. This is a personality/meme in which I must reveal seven of my personality traits.

1. Im super sensitive, I feel things intensely, and can pick up on other peoples moods without even talking to them. I worry if they are happy or having a good time. Then I have to make sure they are ok. I am sensitive to certain noices, they really hurt my ears.
2. I am a social recluse. I have a hard time going anywhere, which is weird because I am very out going and like to have fun. I am getting better but people don't realize how difficult it is for me to get out the door.
3. I cannot stand injustice or unfairness. I just cant let it go. But we have to and move on...
4. I am not always a happy person. I wish I were and people think because I am a people person that I am always happy. Sometimes I have real sadness.
5. I love learning new things about ANYTHING. I dont perfect anything but try to learn as much as my brain or memory will hold.
6. I'm a morning person, always have been. If it is not done by noon it wont get done.
7. I have too many to list. I am not structured, even though I have some OCD. Im constantly changing things

Progress Is Slow Around Here

2009-07-18T10:50:00.004-07:00

I know I have been a horrible blogger. But I have so busy with visiting old girlfriends from kindergarten through highschool, seeing my great nephew be blessed, doing twenty loads of laundry, singing at a dear friends funeral, working, and a pulled tooth that got a dry socket. Yes, I have been on overload and trying to climb out of it.

I do have some progress on my Hey Teach, cardigan. But it has been on hold for two weeks. Im calling this one Hey Chick!

Some Heber Photos

2009-07-09T22:35:00.003-07:00

This is our fabulous fearless leader climbing up the platform to the zipline. I CANNOT believe I got her to go up there. Yes thats my big head encouraging her that I would catch her if she fell...

She did it I was so proud. Truth be told she says I owe her for the rest of her life now...

Some of us got a little tired of taking pictures and started acting up! Cant take us anywhere.

One Year Older

2009-07-09T06:09:00.002-07:00

I contemplated not posting but I have been a slacker and feel guilty. June was just insane for me. It turns out July will be about the same but with some fun stuff too. While growing up there were six girls in our age group. We were always together except for sometimes in school. We each had our own friends but still kind of hung out. This weekend one of my girls' dad passed away. So I will be seeing four of them. The sixth one lives too far away. It is going to be awesome to see them and talk all night and laugh.

Im also going to get to meet my new great nephew. He is the second one for me. I can not wait. I heard he is so beautiful. He will be blessed on Sunday. I am so proud of my family they are the best and I love them.

Well enough about all that... its all about me right now. I turn 43 today. Yep just another day and a reminder Im getting old. On the agenda for today is LAUNDRY or I wont be going out of town. Oh... and my friend is taking me to lunch and I think Im getting Lettuce Wraps. They're healthy right??? Anyway... I hope to have more stories to tell when I get back. See Ya!!!

All Nighters Zip-lines And Fun

2009-06-27T17:34:00.003-07:00

What a treat, I just came back from a women's retreat. We stayed in a three story cabin that was so wonderful. Here is a small recap of what happened. But just to let you know not all will be shared. Because... what happens in Heber stays in Heber!!!!

My favorite part of the whole experience was getting to know several women that I have not had the chance to get to know personally. WOW, I am so excited for new friends to share with and know they will love me... CRAZY, sleep deprived, and ALL!

The second favorite was the Zip line, It was so scary and so fun. Once I got past the height and itty-bitty platform. I made sure everyone heard me the first time. I wish I had pictures to post. I will get those soon. It had some symbolic significance of overcoming some fears, and feeling like a rejuvinated spirit, and an accomplishment.

I learned a lot about myself this trip. I can share my heart and love unconditionally through others trials, tears, and acheivements. I can have patience. I can live on no sleep for 36 hours.

(okay I have two favorites) I had an amazing experience running into an older weathered familiar face in the Snowflake temple. As I said her name she turned around as if we were in Heaven and greeted me with, "Oh...Oh I had faith this day would come but I could not see it ever happening." That reminded me of where I have been and she knew this was difficult for me. It reminded me that someone was watching me grow up and was praying for me for the last 25 years to find true happiness in life. She said she could not stop looking at the shine in my face. It was very very touching. She lost herself when I told her I was in the Relief Society presidency. (that was kind of cute) I know that is how its going to be like to meet the people we have lost and loved so much. This is my testimony that the church is true and that ALL have the opportunity to be blessed beyond our comprehension or understanding.

Its Been A Long Time

2009-06-18T09:27:00.004-07:00

Well most of you have been anxiously waiting for my other secret. Well... there isnt a secret anymore. I have been secretly dating and thought is was going to work out. It did not work out and am I glad I made the decision to end the relationship. It would have not been all that it was promised to be.

I am not upset just disappointed. (because this has been the story of my life) I have excepted that what ever is going to happen will happen for me and just go with the flow. I learned many things about myself and this experience. I know what Machelle wants for once in her life. I had never given it much thought before and so now I have new standards and goals.

I have a new knitting project started. Hopefully I can get cranking on it. Here is Hey Teach

I NEED HELP... Please!!!

2009-06-10T11:33:00.002-07:00

I am supposed to describe myself. I never ever think about it. So, I need a little help. Im not fishing for compliments here, I just really have no clue what to write. I think its important how others view you. So here goes, Please think of 5 to 10 sentences that would describe me and email me.

How embarrassing to ask but... I need ya.

Im Letting One Cat Outta The Bag

2009-06-09T12:07:00.005-07:00

Yes, I went to the temple for the first time on Saturday. I met about 35 people that I knew and some of them I have not seen for 30 years. It was a very great experience. I have worked hard to get to this point and am still surprised that it happened so fast. People and events were placed in my way and so many blessings have come that I cannot contain them all.

I also have another little project in the works. Hopefully in 3 weeks I can show you my project and hope you all like... Cuz Im in like...

Thanks for sharing tidbits of my life with me!!!

Lead Me Guide Me Walk Beside Me

2009-05-23T14:16:00.003-07:00

I know that me ladies Leigh Ann and June don't read my blog, but I have to say how much I admire them, and how much love those two ladies have that I have never known, and probably will never see the depth of. (thats a long runon sentence... but its my blog) I love and admire them so much. They care about me unconditionally.

Today they took me to a special place and I knew that we were meant to be part of something so special. I want you all to know how much these two ladies love the sisters of our ward. I thought I had all the love but these two cant be beat. Please keep us your prayers. There are countless hours, lost sleep, prayers, and service to continue to do and we LOVE every minute of it.

My heart is so full of gratitude, joy, happiness, and appreciation. It has only been through the Savior that we have been brought together. I am so grateful today I could explode.

Skeins Her Way giveaway

2009-05-21T13:45:00.007-07:00

Skeins Her Way is having a contest. I think this yarn is soooo nice. I hope I win, but Im not the lucky type. My fingers are crossed anyway.

I've Been Keeping Secrets

2009-05-15T09:13:00.003-07:00

Sorry I haven't been posting much in the last couple of weeks. I have a couple of big things going on in my life right now. I am not ready to announce. I am just trying to take it all in and make sure my decisions are for all the right reasons. I analyze too much.

I appreciate all my friends who encourage me to be a better person. I appreciate that we all have journeys that are different and somewhat the same. I am grateful for those who have gone out of their way to lift me up and became friends and important people in my life. Each one has changed my life in great ways.

Hopefully full disclosure will come soon. I am SO HAPPY right now.

Have a great weekend.

Top this Mother's Day gift

2009-05-08T18:18:00.007-07:00

Bridgette Nicole was born on "Mother's Day", May 10th, 1987, in Lakeside, AZ. She was 6 lbs 12 oz.

Here is my bundle of Bridgette at 3 weeks old in Colorado

Grandma cant resist
Great uncles hands. (Just and FYI all the newborn pictures I have show her with the bird)

This is us on a Sunday afternoon. Dont laugh at the 80's hair either. You can't see all of her hair in this scanned picture. She always had what Bridgette calls the "DQ swirl" on top.

Hope you had fun with these. They were lost for about 19 years. I looked everywhere and was really sad because these are my FAVORITES.

Just To Prove It

2009-04-30T06:14:00.002-07:00

See I am knitting something. But, I can't tell you anything else. Its a Christmas gift. (Looks like Im about to lose stitches on that back needle.) The yarn is a little darker yarn than photographed.

I need a good used camera, one that someone is getting rid of just to get a better one.

To all my Peeps

2009-04-28T11:23:00.000-07:00

This dress is Jammin'

2009-04-21T21:56:00.007-07:00

I finally managed to take pictures of some of the stuff I've been up to. I finally finished Bridgette's Christmas dress (one of them). It turned out really cute considering i redrafted the original pattern and then made a mistake on the raglan sleeves. I fixed it and you can't tell unless you look straight at her armpit. (daughters Christmas dress finished)

I also made...oops my nephew made freezer jam with my help. It's really good and he did a really good job. See it all fits in the freezer, minus four jars of peach/strawberry that are not shown here. Don't mind my crazy looking freezer. It got cleaned out afterward. I had to try to fit eight jars in there.

I also have a couple sewing projects to finish and I am determined to finishthem before I start my new projects. I have some Christmas knitting to finish too. I just have too much other stuff to do. I am beat so I will just say to everyone, Have A Great Wednesday!!!

Movie Star Popcorn

2009-04-20T08:32:00.005-07:00

My favorite snack in the whole world is popcorn. I like it air popped, I like it at games, or swap meets, out of the stale bag, yes I even like to microwave that kettle corn. Best of all the movie theatre. WHO CARES ABOUT THE MOVIE!!

I decided about 2 months ago to not buy microwave popcorn because it always has a yucky aftertaste and quite honestly its not that good for you with all the chemicals in it.

I found a recipe on allrecipes.com. It is the "Movie Star Popcorn" recipe. The first time I made it, it didnt turn out because I didnt wait to add the butter.

Now when I ask family and friends if they want popcorn... they all give me a great big YES!

So I am sharing the recipe that comes close to what I do. This one is the best recipes so far. The kernals pop up huge. ( I use the great value brand and am very impressed) The expensive stuff pops up fluffy but the kernal is hard. In my opinion they did not let the corn dry out long enough.
How do I know this, you ask? We used to grow pop corn in our garden. BIG huge buckets full.

INGREDIENTS
3 tablespoons peanut oil (i use canola oil)
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup unpopped popcorn
1/2 teaspoon salt
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat the oil in a 2 to 3 quart saucepan or pot with a lid set over medium-high heat. Pour in popcorn kernels and sprinkle enough salt to lightly cover the layer of kernels. Remember, you can always add more salt later. Add the butter to the pot and cover with the lid.
2. As soon as the kernels start to pop, shake the pan back and forth across the burner constantly until the popping slows down. As soon as the pops are about 2 seconds apart, remove from the heat and pour into a serving bowl. Taste, and season with additional salt if desired.

(my own tip is read #1 carefully. Do not add the butter until the oil is hot and after you add the kernals otherwise you will burn your butter.)

I was always told I would live to be 100 yrs. old because I could eat popcorn every day as a kid.
Good thing this is healthy for you.

I Would Like To Accept This Award...

2009-04-15T18:26:00.004-07:00

My Awesome friend SHARLA nominated me with this award. WOOHOO!!! I feel honored and am a little um... flattered. I love it, Thank you Sharla!

"These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award."
Here are my eight nominees:

1. ALLISON- she comments more than anyone on my blog and she is quirky like me by her own admission. I LOVE HER and her kids to death. Keep posting all those pictures.

2. SHARLA because she awarded me, her kids are adorable and we share a bond, and she always has fabulous stories to tell. You make it all look easy... and fun.

3. Lara- she was the first knitter to read my blog and comment. That is huge in my eyes. She makes gorgeous knitwear and is just very sweet.
4. Alyssa- I loved her before her blog. She and her husband have done things for my family out of the kindness of their hearts and I dont forget when I am grateful. I love her blog and getting caught up in the fun things she does with her family.

5. Kayola- I have known her for 42 years. She is the CRAFT QUEEN and no one compares. You are sumthin else sista. LOVE your blog!
6. Elisabeth- Her blog always brings me back to things that are near and dear to me. She is the queen of self reliant. I did not know this about her until I read her blog. I miss her family and she always has great things to share.

7. Sandra- She is from croatia and inspires me to knit more than I do. She is very funny and I love her comments on my blog posts.

8. Kristen- Her blog inspires me. She is very creative. She has a son with Autism and it is fabulous to see how well she deals with these challenges. I just admire her.

These fabulous women always comment on my blog or answer me back when I comment on them. It really keeps me blogging. So I had to choose them.

Happy Spring Giveaway

2009-04-14T11:11:00.003-07:00

The farm chicks are having a fabric give away on their blog. Check them out HERE. I think the Pixie Dust Fabric is really sweet. So, go sign up for their give away and a chance to win!

100 RaNdOm ThInGs AbOuT mE

2009-03-31T08:27:00.003-07:00

1-Earned a trip to Hawaii in High school
2-Called ugly in school
3-Eaten rabbit, yes it tastes like chicken
4-Rode the Mexican bus to Mexico City for three days
5-Sang in a band
6-Can’t stand the same music for too long
7-Met Muhamed Ali 3 times
8-Met a lot of famous people
9-I sleep with two pillows
10-I love camping
11-Seen and smelled gangrene, (gross)
12-Grew up on a mini farm
13-Have 5 brothers, three sisters, and a foster brother
14-I love fresh baked goods
15-Gone skinny dipping
16-Bought a strangers meal
17-I learned to and went surfing for a whole day
18-Worked in a hotel
19-Worked as a courier for Airborne Express
20-Worked for UPS
21-Was a teachers-aid right after high school
22-Always took a dare
23-Had my face in a magazine, with my doctor and staff in, "Best Doctors in Arizona."
24-Killed and prepared meat to cook and eat
25-Lost my honey…sad
26-Swam in the Great Salt Lake
27-Rode my horse smokie as a kid, she was grey
28-Seen the great lakes
29-don’t like large areas of water
30-hate cheese
31-care too much what others think
32-Iove to play the piano
33-I love clothes
34-Been kidnapped at gunpoint
35-I have shopped at thrift stores a lot
36-used to have to sleep with my sister
37-I started getting paid to babysit when I was 9
38-I lived with a lady for two weeks after she had a baby
39-I was still in junior high
40-had bad experiences at the singles events (anyone watched the movie Singles Ward? Mine was worse)
41-have one fabulous daughter who is kind, generous, compassionate, and beautiful
42-I rode my bike 6 miles a day as a kid
43-Had someone rich ask me what makeup I used
44-Shot a gun before
45-Love laughing until my back hurts
46-Been hit in the nose with a baseball bat (my brother… an accident)
47-Had my nose pulled out of my face
48-Writing a hundred things is hard for me
49-I LOVE kids
50-I started driving my parent and brothers cars all the time when I was 11 yrs old
51-I never got caught
52-Scared to death of dogs I don’t know
53-I push my child in front of me when we approach a dog
54-Got an arrow stuck in the back of my leg
55-I did flips on the couch thus the arrow
56-A sticker/thorn grew in my leg to be the size of a quarter
57-I had three jobs at once
58-Had three church callings/jobs at once too
59-Stepped on a bed of baby rattlesnakes
60-I get car sick
61-I had a baby on my due date, Mother’s Day.
62-A tattoo on my left leg from an accident
63-I have been on my own since I was seventeen years old
64-I work in a doctor’s office
65-I sew
66-I knit
67-I sing
68-I have allergies
69-I can cook some dang good Mexican food
70-I make tamales
71-I make homemade flour tortillas
72-I don’t like fights or arguments
73-I was born in ‘66
74-On route 66
75-Wouldn’t you know… #66 is my current favorite
76-I LOVE dancing…love
77-I am lonely. Where are the men?
78-I am the great, great, great granddaughter of Wild Bill Hickock
79-I have an old soul I love hearing about the past lives of people
80-Very passionate person
81-As a child our friends used to pay us to play with us.
82-We had several forts and had rodeos.
83-I had an easy bake oven
84-As a child I had centipedes in my room
85-Lizards too
86-And snakes
87-I like acting
88-I wish I were a great writer
89-If I were rich I would end up giving it away
90-Im too objective about everything
91-I analyze EVERYTHING
92-I had two birds hit my windshield at the same time they both died
93-The next day another bird hit my windshield and died
94-This happened three days in a row and I have Post traumatic syndrome now
95- the older I am the more I love
96-I am ALWAYS grateful ALWAYS
97-i like making people laugh
98- i am a caring person and will give the shirt off my back if you need it.
99- I love to shop
100- I love The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-Day Saints

Where am I

2009-03-25T08:25:00.004-07:00

I have been SOOOO busy lately and my blog has suffered. I am, however, still working on projects when I can. I am finishing the sheet project and tweeking it a bit before I photograph it.

I really do have two knit projects going on, one sweater for a Christmas gift and the doll. I have three sewing projects to finish also. Im not counting the fact that I am trying to cook extra large amounts of food and freezing it for lunches. This has saved us a lot of money in the last few months.

Plus I had my oldest brother and his family show up for a surprise visit on Sunday. We had a great time. They came to surprise my mother who was speaking in church. I am excited that we are planning a family reunion for my siblings and my parents. We always see each other but but not all together at once.

Last but not least I had Relief Society every night of the week last week. Sick sisters, stake meetings, enrichment committee meetings, and nights on the phone doing R/S. Be careful what you pray for. I just wanted to stop watching so much TV and look what happened!!!

Super Saturday

2009-03-20T19:43:00.002-07:00

I found a sheet set on clearance and couldnt resist. I have seen such cute sheets being sewn into loverly things lately. This little lovely is going to be sewn up tomorrow. I have a deadline to finish.

Shalom Cardigan FINISHED

2009-03-12T10:12:00.005-07:00

I started the Shalom Cardigan shown on this blog, it's on the blogs sidebar. It was easy and kept my interest with the shaping. It is also made out of a bulky yarn which made this go pretty fast.

**Please ignore the horrible pictures. Only reason I posted these is because only my friends who love me will see them.**

I started it on 2/21 and finished it 3/7. Finished in just two weeks. My fingers are a little tender but I will live. Modifications made. I added 13 stitches to the neck in the beginning. For the back of the sweater and sleeves, I didnt like how open the back was under the arm so I didnt cast off as many. Under the sleeves I added an extra 5 stitches to make sure it was roomy enough. Final conclusion, I love how this turned out and I really like that it doesnt have sleeves. So in the winter when the heater is on at church I am not too hot and in the summer when the AC is too cold I can wear it then too. The pattern was easy to follow and since I am a self taught knitter I only had to look up a couple of things on knittinghelp.com.

Yucky Poo

2009-02-25T08:37:00.002-07:00

Sorry I have been gone for so long. I have a stomach virus that has been working its way out for a week. No pun intended. I miss you all and will be up and around as soon as I can. Im not one to stay down.

Ok I guess I need to nudge

2009-02-15T17:34:00.003-07:00

Ok so no one seems interested in my challenge so let me walk you through this. You dont have to sew. You can recycle anything, even garbage. If you recycle then it counts. I would love to hear about what you do to save money and do it in a creative way. It doenst have to be crafty, It can be in any way, shape, or form.

I know your peeking, so leave me a comment...

Recycle BABY!!

2009-02-11T18:12:00.007-07:00

Well, I have done it again. I hate making or buying a dress and it really does that looks like carp. Yes I spelled that wrong because Im trying to change my ways. So my solution to not getting rid of such beautiful fabric is to rip seams and design something else out of it. My first project was a very nice fabric that was quite expensive and It was ugly. It had a high bodice and then a full gathered bottom. Which, Ahem... clear my throat...ahem made my Butt look like a bigger bottom. I can say butt right? I think it will be ok. Any way I made a jumper out of it and it was very cute. And it was a long time ago so my butt wasnt as big. Im obsessed with butt. I cant help it. ROFL

Yes I need sleep.

Anyhoo, I had another yuck ugly dress that I bought for pennies. The top (high bodice) looked like a brushed satin and was kind of cool. But the bottom was a lavendar or voilet and black plaid. I just couldnt bare to part with it. I took it apart about ten years ago and packed it away. Well, I found it about a month ago and it sparked something in me. You sewers know this feeling. It had to be a skirt. So I found a straight skirt pattern and cut it. Nice thing is, it was already hemmed, it was already serged in most places, and all I had to do was add elastic. Ta dummm. I love my new skirt.

I have decided to make a callange and see how many things I can recycle before getting anything new. This will be hard for me as I am a BIG woman. But I will only recycle and use stuff from my stash. I will be honest if I splurge. Anyone one want to join me??? I will even help you if you need ideas. I will post a list on my sidebar of recyclers.

Lula's progress

2009-02-06T06:03:00.003-07:00

Really, Im not blowing smoke. I really have a project going. Here is my progress. As you can see I have some steaming to do with my handy dandy steamer. I scored it at a yardsale brand new in the case. Or I could use the iron with a wet wash cloth on top. I will probably have to tea dye her body as she is too pale. We'll see...

i LOVE Lula

2009-02-04T08:43:00.003-07:00

I have had my eye on this little gal for a year now. I started her super bowl weekend because I was beyond stressed out and laid up. I have a leg and the arms to finish before I can stuff her. Then I can start the fun stuff making the undies, clothes and shoes. Im going to use my fashion smarts on those. I cannot wait. I will post pictures of my progress.

P.S.
I have orders to make the eyes brown and the hair different, oh, and I believe she is getting a different name too. Hmm I wonder who that might be making those demands and changing my plans.

Monday Memories part 3

2009-02-02T06:14:00.004-07:00

I started Junior High this year. This is my first pair of glasses, and yes they are bigger than my face.

This is my last year in junior high. This would be 8th grade. I had some good times that year. I met my best friend and we were friends until she went to BYU. We did some crazy stuff together. He mother was from Mexico City and would not let me speak english in her house. She said I needed to learn spanish like the rest of her family. Her father was white and taught spanish, french, german, and something else at the college. This was the first year I met my music teacher. He would be my teacher all through out school until I graduated. He had a special place in my heart for a number of reasons.

Hey Good Lookin' Whats Cookin'?

2009-01-28T13:36:00.002-07:00

I love cooking, I know and it shows... Thats for another post though. Anyhoo, I love going on Allrecipes.com. and I have made some fabulous dishes from this site like potato soup, enchilada sauce, chinese food, scones, and crockpot recipes.

Our ward is having a recipe exchange this week. After I thought about what I was going to make I realized how vague that was. Then I started analyzing what I would do, what if no one has the ingredients in their pantry to make what I bring. Then I had one of those light bulb moments, you know, one of those slap your forehead kind of moment. Dont lie you know you have them too. So back to my thought. I thought well... then if they like it, they can stock up on these items on hand, because they are super cheap. Duh Mach!!!

Anyway I am anxious to make this one.

No Knitting

2009-01-27T15:32:00.009-07:00

I feel lost without a knit project so I am going to post a list of projects I have my eye on. Hopefully I can get going on a few shortly.

1. fingerless mitts. Fancy or not I just want to make some. I like these.
2. The Central Park Hoodie is still on my list. Although I still have to order a new pattern for my size.
3. Another February Lady Sweater in a smaller size and color. I am thinking dark green or brick red.
4. Make my mom a lacey sweater. I had this one in mind.

Monday Memories part 2

2009-01-26T07:27:00.005-07:00

This is me in the 3rd grade I may have missed second grade pictures because I fell and injured my knee. It would not heal for about 4 months. Finally I had to have surgery on it and we found a small sticker/thorn was growing in my leg about an inch big. I remember having a cast and crutches. In the third grade I remember seeing my future best friend for the first time. She came to dance at our school with her mother and sisters. Her mother was from Mexico City. They danced the ballet folklorico. I also used to make my lips chapped so I could go to the school nurse and get an ointment for my lips. I thought I was getting lip gloss. 3rd grade was when my friend Beth Richards told me about puberty and the birds and the bees. Moms got pregnant and had babies because they ate special salt.
I sang my first solo in a school music program. I still remember the words too. (cant remember anything else!)

I was 9 yrs old in this picture. I hated this hair-do. My mom would make us wear the black prickly rollers with the pink pin to hold it in place. This was my first year to get a swat in school for not doing my work.

My cousin gave me the gross version of the birds and the bees.

My brother had a band and made me play out the tune for their songs. He asked me to sing a solo, Snowbird for the family reunion that year.

This was me in the 6th grade. My brother was leaving for his mission and I had been singing in school choir and in his band. I remember him asking me to sing in church for his farewell. This meant a lot to me since I felt my brothers didnt like me. This was a weird year for me. We had a creep of a male teacher.

Monday Memories part 1

2009-01-19T06:44:00.004-07:00

Just thought I would post a Monday memory page every Monday. Mostly for laughs but some of it is for therapeutic reasons, I'm sure.

This is how my family started. Arent they beautiful!

Maynard and Winona Zufelt, 1956

This is me and my brothers and sisters when I was I was 7 yrs old. I know its out of place but this is all of us that are living. I am the 7th child of 9 children. And... no us girls do not have shoes. We look like some hillbilly kids.

Im one picture off. Oh, well.

This is me in the first grade. I had a favorite book where the little girl got a swimming suit for her birthday. I don't know why... but I thought was was the most fabulous gift you could ever get. I

read it over and over and never wanted to check out any other book.

This is me in the second grade and 7 years old. I missed a lot of school because I fell and hurt my knee. It would not heal for about 4 months. I had to keep getting stitches taken in and out. Finally my mom took me somewhere else and they did surgery and found a sticker that grew to be about an inch and half big. So I had a cast and crutches for a long time that year.

"Interview Me"

2009-01-14T17:00:00.006-07:00

Im a copycat kayola!!!

Whenever I have had an interview I try to remember my posture and make eye contact and try really really hard NOT to make a dramatic exit...

Here are the directions:1. Leave me a comment saying, "Interview me."2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. .3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions. I meant to say FRIENDS who said "Interview me" leaving comments. Now, all you have to do is just wait for your questions....

Kayola says...
Thank you for playing along....your questions are......
1. What makes you want to shout? Either or all three... for joy...for attention or just when plain exasperated?I shout for joy when someone compliments me (mostly inside I'm shoutin) I want to shout when no one listens, they hear you, but they dont listen. I shout for attention by being funny.
2. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? What is your favorite part about yourself? I would change my weight. My favorite part about myself is that I want others to feel loved and special or that I am contributing to their happiness.
3. If you could meet a famous person, who would it be? I have met several so this is hard. I would like to meet Joseph Smith. Celebrity... have lunch with Jude Law
4. What is your very favorite memory? My favorite memory was when my daughter Bridgette was born. Thats up there with Hawaii in the Swing Thing. Were you in Swing Thing Kayola?
5. What was your favorite toy as a child? My bike and orange and gold easy bake oven.

New finished projects

2009-01-09T18:41:00.005-07:00

I had a lot of fun during Christmas making a few hats. I think three total. I made Bridgette and I the, Le Slouch. Bridgettes is scarlet red and mine is brown. Mine was supposed to match the FLS that might get frogged. (Might let it live after another blocking)

Here's a picture of mine, I will try to get hers later.

This is me so Happy with it!!!!

Im Gonna Miss You

2009-01-05T16:00:00.003-07:00

I finished the February Lady Sweater. I sewed on the buttons. I wore it to church and felt stupid. I am having a hard time coming to terms that all my hard work and money are in vain. She is going to get frogged.(Rip it, Rip it, Rip it). It is way too big. I was warm though...

I know I wont even wear it with jeans.

So, if I frog this FLS, I will reknit it into something else. Just knitting the same sweater over again is not something I am willing to. My attention span can only take me so far.

I am sick about it.

Sick and wrong...

2009-01-01T16:18:00.006-07:00

After reading a fellow knitters blog I decided to comment further on her post. So she is sick and cant even take care of her two girls. She goes to the ER and gets the brush off.

Okay, I am in the medical field and have big opinions about getting the best medical care. I have worked 8 years in Neurology, pain management, and physiatry. I worked the last 6 years in primary care/internal medicine. I have seen the good and bad. My current NP (nurse practitioner) will not even treat me for my chronic bronchitis or allergies which cause my oxygen level to go to 89% level of O2 output. She is more ready to give me a slew of unmentionables than to give me a breathing treatment. She will be fired as of today January 1st. Here are some things I found helpful.

1) If you are not feeling normal and know your body and know your sick. Demand treatment or go to a walk in clinic. They are more apt to give you what you need or run tests. This holds the provider accountable.

2) Dont be afraid to call the office back a couple of times so they know your serious. Do not be afraid that you are bothering them. It is their job to help you.

3) Make a list of everything that is wrong at the time of illness, even if you think its no big deal. Dr offices love lists.

I could go on but maybe this will help someone in the future. I am open for questions if you have them.

HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!!!

Chelle

SiGh...Merry Christmas

2008-12-26T08:02:00.004-07:00

I know I'm a day late with the greeting. I have had a really bad month. Everyone I know is fighting. People at work, family, friends, and some unmentionables. I found myself in a really bad funk and nothing seemed to pull me out of it. I had a few melt downs on people hoping it would help.

I tried being a secret elf and it was a lot of fun, especially when I got busted and ran with a turban on my head. HOW EMBARRASSING!

Someone secret elffed me with the nativity. BTW, I recognized the handwriting !!! The other funny thing was the children were looking at me at church, In a strange way. You know that searching kind of look, like up in your face, see your nostrols kind of look to see if you know what's going on. Nope, I acted like I didnt know anything at all. I didnt want to ruin their fun. How sweet.

Finally Christmas Eve I snapped out of it and had a good time and enjoyed the evening. Everyone was being nice and talking to each other and helping. Yesterday was a good day too and it wasnt because of presents. There's nothing like gadgets or electronics to get people working together. It was fun because I had to bail the youngsters out putting in a car stereo.
1)READ the directions.
2) There shouldnt be extra wires.
3) Ask someone whose done it before to help. (like me)
4) Use loud laughter to annoy them the whole time!

To those of you wondering, I did not get anything done on my list ( a few posts back) to prepare for Christmas. None of it.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!

Two down Three more to go!!!

2008-12-18T19:39:00.005-07:00

Beanie is done. Now Im waiting for the fabric to finish the PJ's. I have some blisters on my thumbs. Owie..

I started a coworkers scrub at 6:08 pm tonight, after I got home. I cut and sewed the whole thing and was finished ironing at 6:50 pm. But I realized that I forgot the pockets. I hate pockets so bad. I always get one cock-eyed or crooked as a dogs hind leg. Think she'll mind if I say, with utter shock as she is opening her gift, "Oh my... I forgot the pockets"! I'm too dog tired to do anymore.

FYI she demands I put pockets in by Monday. WHAAAAA, WHAAAAA!!!

Crafty girls

2008-12-17T18:49:00.007-07:00

I tell ya the house just got clean and the craft crap exploded. I do not know how it happened but but someone is in trouble.

Look at this cute wreath Bridgette made. She wants to decorate the sister missionaries appartment. What a sweetie pie!

I have a last minute guest coming for Christmas. I knit up a beanie last night and finishing it up tonight. Guess what team this is for!

I have two dresses to finish sewing and a pair of PJ's.

dO yOu KnOw Me ?

2008-12-16T08:41:00.000-07:00

How well do you know me quiz?

Incredibly Beautiful

2008-12-10T21:49:00.001-07:00

This is posibly the most beautiful sight I have ever seen. This makes me stop and gasp at how sacred and special the temple grounds are. When I am walking around the grounds I am filled with an abundance of reverence. My wish is that for one instant the whole world would feel it too, just once.

February Lady Sweater progress

2008-12-07T07:20:00.005-07:00

This is what the February Lady Sweater is going to look like when it's finished. almost 3, 000 people in the knit blog world and ravelry have knit this. They fit all sizes and so far it looks flattering on everyone.

My FLS is almost done. Im not sure if I am going to give it away or not. I have one more sleeve to knit. I blocked before I finished the last sleeve because I was starting to hate the yarn but it blocked so nice that I will use knitpicks Swish wool yarn again. (for those of you who done't know what blocking is, it is washing the finished garment according to the yarn instructions. This makes all the stiches perfectly the same size and also allows you to make it bigger, smaller, longer, or shorter. To get the perfect fit.)

You cant really see the detail on this so if you click here and scroll down you can see it close up.

Sneak Preview

2008-12-05T18:20:00.002-07:00

Here's a sneak preview of what I'm up to.

Have Fun

2008-12-03T08:42:00.001-07:00

CLICK ON THE BALL AND IT WILL CHANGE COLOUR.
(It can be done)

Click here:
http://thedogpaddler.com/RandomUploads/Ball/ball.htm

Twas The Day Of Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T09:35:00.001-07:00

Twas the day of thanks giving. I have to get up.
My bed is warm and my eyes won't open .
All this cooking and cleaning of Turkey day, yep.
I know, what a mess is about to happen.

I pull back the covers and do my stretches.
A marathon of skills and multitasking.
I better find my best pair of britches,
and good pair of sneakers ablasting.

It's a good thing I prepared the night before,
Cuz all this stuff has made my kitchen a mess.
My back, my legs, and butt are sore.
But it was good to see the face of each guest.

It made me thankful for each ache and pain.
They all ate with joy and tummies were full.
The bending , stirring, and cleaning were not in vain.
Really, this Thanksgiving was really cool.