Kindness

So I've been reading this book on Kindness.. and it is funny how it is so fitting that I read it now when I do NOT feel like being kind to certain people. I am continually reminding myself that I cannot control how others are, I can only control how I am and how I react to certain situations. So hard.... especially when hormonal and moody!!

My little girl is such a girly girl. She loves anything pink, sparkly, princess-y, and that is 'fancy'. I thought I'd make her some quick little hair bows while the kids napped today (hair pins all magically disappear.. how is that?)

It took me about 10 minutes to make these ones, super easy...I didn't video tape it this time because I wasn't sure if they would turn out, but if you like them I can certainly make some more!

I got all the supplies at Michael's for under $10, but you can buy all these things at Wal-mart and it'll probably be a bit cheaper. I had a lot of ribbon left over too... the clips I used were the smaller ones in a multi pack, so if you can find a pack of smaller clips it works better... or alligator clips would work great too.

Here's a video of our ultrasound this week.. so cute to see her moving in there (even though I feel it all the time, she's kicking my butt!)

change of heart

"Love me when I least deserve it, because that is when I need it the most"

Interesting quote I came by the other day. And fitting to the way I have been feeling the last couple of weeks towards myself and to others. I feel like my heart and mind have been invaded by emotion. Granted I AM pregnant, and apparently my emotions are hightened...but that's not necessarily a bad thing right? Kind of like a super hero.

Anger, frustration, grief, sorrow, dissapointement, annoyance, disgust, confusion, abandonment, helplessness, pride, judgement all bundled into one happy package that consumes my mind.

When things happen to you, there are so many routes you can let your mind go. The difficulty is finding the right one and acting on it. I think its especially when you feel 'justified' in the bad thoughts..and you very might well be, but that doesn't mean that the outcome should be more negativity.

This morning I woke up and all the heaviness of my heart had transformed to peace. I realized that I am capable more than just getting mad or offended, hurt and pitied. I am going to be a better woman, be kind and loving to those who I might feel don't deserve it. Not because I am so great, but because I don't deserve it...and I would want the same. love, gentleness and tenderness...it can heal a lot of mean. so that's what I am going to try to do.

wish me luck.

Manners

So I got asked to speak about manners to a camp of boys this summer. The program is for fatherless boys in the community. It teaches them life skills and provides mentorship in areas that they lack in their every day lives. Last year I got to share about my life and how God has changed it.
This year they asked me to speak for a session about etiquette and manners. Where do you begin? from holding the door open to meaning the words you say... there is so much that I don't know where to start.

It's funny how things kind of happen in cycles and in themes in your life. I've become more and more aware of the kids around me. The kids we spend time with, the kids at the playground or park, the kids at the mall. I have to say... the majority of the time I am completely horrified. Kids have no manners, foul mouths and no discipline. It's scarey. Now that I have kids it affects me and it makes me think hard about what I want my kids to be around and how they are influenced.
We do a lot of stuff in the community so our kids are exposed to a lot, and I don't mind that.. I don't want them to be narrow minded snobs, but at the same time I want to protect them from a lot of things that no child ever needs to see or hear.

I feel like every day my husband and I talk on the issue of schooling for our kids. Frankly, it makes me nervous. *sigh. One year at a time, one day at a time I guess.

It's kind of like, you don't want your kid to be a bully..but you don't want them to get picked on. You don't want them to be TOO cool and do bad things, but you don't want them to be nerdy and awkward either. Part of me wishes I could live in an enchanted forest or on a farm in the middle of nowhere! hahaa!!

anyways, my brain is all a muddle which means I should probably take a nap while everyone else does.
have a good day!

2ne1

ok, so I'm a secret undercover hardcore fan of 2ne1.
they are all adorable and I love their style!

it's a GIRL!!

before we were even thinking about getting pregnant again (which at that point seemed unlikely) our daughter would pray every night for a little sister... when we got pregnant, she would always say "i want a sister, but i will be thankful for whatever i get).

So I am 17 weeks pregnant and the ultrasound department didn't have any appointments for my ultrasound until the end of June... needless to say I am impatient and anxious. So we went today to get an ultrasound to find out what it was!!

if you guessed what you thought it was on the previous VLOG, I'll post the winners in the next couple of days!

Lace, Pink Tips and Panera

I did some girly lace/pink nails today. The only thing is.. I used fast dry top coat which made the lace stickers wrinkle a bit... after they were completely dry they lay flat (better than the picture)

A Panera Bread opened up right down the street from my house.. HALLELUJAH!!!

If you ever go, you have to try the cinnamon crunch bagels. they are so yummy. taste like cinnamon rolls. Perfect timing for this hungry preggo lady. (actually my husband is there right now picking up a frontega chicken sandwich for me! hah!) Hope you are all doing well and had a nice long weekend. We served some veterans a Memoral Day dinner last night. It is a privelege to live in a country with so much blessing. When they did the pledge of allegiance I was so embarassed I didn't know the words. I'm Canadian, but I figure if I live here I better learn it quick!!!

hmmm

so do you ever think something and wish you could just say it? but you know in your logical mind it is probably better to just keep it to yourself? I've been having a lot of those days. Wishing I had a big rubber stamp that said "fake" "selfish" or "liar" I could stamp on people's foreheads. I don't know why I let people get to me, get frustrated at the way people are...it doesn't change their lives. They are who they are... I just become a bitter, resentful person. So in the the end I am much worse off and they, well they are just the same. I think most people think they are pretty clever and people don't see their true motives or intentions. Usually its quite obvious to the rest of us. ugh. okay. Sorry for being a negative nancy... enough of that!

anyways, my husband got me this set of nailpolish which at first I was like "oh, thank you, lots of glitter!" BUT they are the best glitter polishes I've ever had! I dare to say even better than the O.P.I. glitter polishes. Most glitter polishes are super sparse on the glitter and you have to put several coats to get an even coat. I did 2 coats of the gold glitter and my nails were fully colored.

I've seen them in random accessory stores and in L.A.

My husband bought them as a set at Marshall's. There were a couple of more, but I couldn't find them for the picture!

L.A. Colors (these ones were called "color craze")

Summer Fruit Basket

I love color. My favorite color is yellow.Its so happy and cheerful. Today I woke up and it was beautiful outside, the sun was shining..birds chirping. So I thought I'd do a little summer fruit nail tutorial that was fun and colorful.

Enjoy!

6 years and counting....

Happy 6th Anniversary!!

my hubby got all fancy on me!

So weird how time flies. I can't imagine, or kinda... don't wanna imagine what my life was before I got married and started our family. It's like my life was black and white before and now it is in full color. I am looking forward to 60 more with my Prince Charming. He only gets better with age. More handsome, smart, loving and kind... He's such a catch, and I caught him!!!

Oh wow..I just realized it is nap time in our house... maybe I should make use of it and take a nap myself!!

ps. I was thinking of doing a 'preggo outfit' section. I hate traditional maternity wear, and I think you should still be able to look cute as your belly grows. Would you find that helpful? have a great day everyone!

16 weeks

So I am 16 weeks now and still nauseous.. C'MON!!!!
I have finally admitted to myself that my jeans are too tight. Its weird because you dont' just gain weight in your belly, it feels like your skeleton gets bigger. Shoulders are broader, chest cavity is thicker.. and my feet are longer. What the?!
So I guess its maxi dresses for me for the next couple of months!
I go to the doctor today. I don't now if she is gonna check anything or just measure and make sure everything is okay. I am secretly trying to find a way I can get her to do an ultrasound (so I can see the sex of the baby!!, they don't have any appointments until late june).

a couple of people have asked me to blog about my pregnancy, but I don't know what is interesting... so here is a quick video of me blah-blahing really about nothing...

Thank you for my treats Maren!!! you are the best and I miss you :(

Thor

so 9 years ago I started dating my very first boyfriend...who knew it would totally change my life! 6 years ago (the 24th) I married him. It is weird when I think back to what I thought of him, how he made me nervous... and the things that made me crush on him. 6 years of marriage, 2 kids and one on the way later... the things I love about him and make me crush on him are totally different. He is a different person, I am a different person...and our love is different. Different in a good way. So much deeper with greater understanding. He is such a man of integrity, he is humble, he protects me and is like a gentle warrior. I always say he was born in the wrong era. He should be a gladiator or a warrior who goes to battle wearing a bear on his back. He is a manly man. A fighter, but loyal and true to his roots. A hard worker and always chooses what is right. It is funny because I don't think he is anything like the character...but we watched Thor and the whole time I kept thinking that he reminded me so much of my husband! a couple of people have texted asking if we have watched Thor and said it reminded them of him too. Funny. Maybe its the beard, blue eyes and the warrior-ness.... I think my husband is dreamy :)

totally unrelated once again, but my sister asked me a while ago to make a video on how to put on false eyelashes. there are a couple of different kinds, so I thought I'd start with the demi lashes.

l.o.v.e.

Me and my little man feeding the giraffe this morning.

Today was a beautiful day. Tiring, but nice. I love my kids so much. Wish I could do more for them, give them more...
I have a friend visiting for the week I haven't seen in 10 years and we were looking at my kids baby albums and it is amazing how your love grows every day for your little peanuts. They've changed so much, I had no idea my life would change the way it has. I want to be a better mom, have more patience, more creativity, more energy, more love. They deserve the very best. So I am going to give them the best of me :)
Tonight before my son went to bed he said "lah dyoo mah, lah dyoo mah" over and over...love you mah.... the best words of the day!

So I had to whip out my nail schnazz and bedazzle her nails a bit.. which made me realize how long it had been since I did mine (mine never go naked, but when you're nauseous.. your nails are the last thing on your mind!)

her nails...


Here are her toes, which inspired me to do my nails...

Natural Prom Look

Today I got to help Miss Tiffany get ready for her first prom! She is so cute. She normally doesn't wear any makeup, so I wanted to do it natural.. but still make her feel pretty. so here is a quick video.. wait til the end to see my little cuties!

fancy...

So after many years of wishing, dreaming.. and secretly being jealous of people with refrigerators with water and ice dispensers....we finally got one. Thank you tax return! I have to say, I felt pretty darn fancy. Ice and filtered water whenever I want?! oh, why yes... thank you!

It had been less than 2 weeks when I walked into the kitchen to find this:

my wonderful 2 year old son decided he wanted to contribute to the fridge art.. and make it permanent. yup. that's permanent marker on there. I had to laugh, or else I would cry. We were on our way out the door to church for Easter Sunday.. so I took a deep breath and we left.

When we got back I tried EVERYTHING. magic eraser, bleach, acetone, alcohol.. nothing... a little smudge here and there would get smudgier.. but nothing got it off.

I thought of other solutions..we could frame the lower part and showcase his art.. or, we could graffiti the whole fridge and TRY to make it look cool.. nothing.

guess what got it off?!

perfume.

yup. with the first spray the ink dripped down the fridge and wiped completely off!!! who would have thought. now, there are spots that are a little darker and deeper that were a littler harder, but I could not believe it... and now, my kitchen smells delightful. yay for not freaking out!!~

Pretty Eggs

I have to say. I'm excited to decorate eggs. These are from our egg session last year. I got all the stuff at the 99 cent store... so that's always a plus! There's just something so pretty about a colorful egg... don't ya think?

speaking of eggs...I get to go to the doctor tomorrow and see my little egg turned jelly bean. I'm excited. I always say I wish there was a little "window" of clear on your belly while you are pregnant so you can see little baby. I know that would be weird, maybe kinda gross.. but I find it all so amazing. Even though this is baby #3 I read the weekly development and have daily tips that get sent to my phone. It is all just so amazing. my heart understands it, but my brain does not. It just does not make sense how a little baby forms and is in there!!!

I am hoping my nausea actually decides to go away this time instead of lingering until the end. I AM feeling better overall.. so maybe that is a good sign. I had some very UNsexy moments in the last couple of weeks....my husband must be horrified. either way, he hides it well.. which is good for me!

Beachy Waves

I feel like every time summer is around the corner the 'beachy waves' come back in style. i'm either way on top of things, or not 'in style' most of the year. My hair is naturally, ugly wavy. So this is how I've been doing my hair for the last 7 years.. atleast. I just don't have the time, patience or sweat glands to blow dry my hair and then straighten it or curl it.

Here is my favorite hair product for achieving the perfect wave. no crunch, no debris, no flakes... just nice soft waves... promise~

what's in your every day bag?

i use to love HUGE bags ( i still do, i think they make me look skinnier.. haha!) but since i have a bajillion things to carry for the kids i don't carry much for myself. i carry this little messenger bag that my mother in law got me for Christmas almost every day. its just so comfortable, fits what i need, is light..and my hands are free to wipe snotty noses and rescue barbie hair that is stuck... anywhere.

my bag

Betsyville by Betsey Johnson

wallet

Deux Lux (i got it at marshall's for $12!!)

action figure

don't know who this dude is...but he made it into my purse

clif bar

i get ravenously hungry with no warning, i break out in a cold sweat and feel like i'm gonna pass out. so this is to prevent my drama. haha!

lip gloss

i don't carry any makeup. but girl, my lips are always dry!

mentos

these have become my new best friend. with all the dry heaving and nausea.. they help, for the moment they are in my mouth...

fruit snacks

these are my emergency "ack! they're having a meltdown give them something quick!" snacks

hand sanitizer

their hands are cute, but i don't trust 'em.

hair pin

i don't know how that got in, but its my little girl's, thus makes me smile :)

my phone.. and my camera would be, but i'm using it!

what are some things you carry around everyday?

rough beginnings.

man. it has been a rough few months. its not like i didn't know it was going to be hard, but the reality of it is worse. so many people told me that every pregnancy is different and that this might be 'the one' that was different. LIES!!! hahahhaa!!i still don't understand preggo's who never get sick!
i don't know if it is worse....but i also didn't have 2 kids to take care of the last 2 times!
lying in bed, gagging, dry heaving, throwing up.. feeling icky everywhere. its weird, because i am such an anxious person i can rarely just 'lie' and do absolutely nothing. one day my husband comes into the room and says "why don't you watch some tv atleast? you have been lying in the dark for a week" and i was just like " i can't" i literally felt like i could not do anything... going to the bathroom was my outing for the day.
all that complaining to say... i think i'm slowly coming back to life.
i'm still nauseous and gaggy... with the worst cottonmouth imagineable. BUT i can actually get up, sit up... and i WANT to take a shower. haha!!

anyways. today i woke up feeling thankful. thankful that God is in control, when i (and my body are not). that there are people that love me and those that i love so dearly. the sun is shining, the birds are chirping... i got a new refrigerator...life is pretty good.
hope you are all doing well!

true colors

so i've been sick. like sick-sick. for almost 2 weeks. at first i thought it was just morning sickness... then the fever, chills.... had a ear infection, throat infection, cold... now i have bronchitis. on top of the horrible nausea. i hate being a sick whiner. but i will be, atleast for this blog.
i hate lying in bed not doing anything. the truth is, i've felt so horrible i don't even WANT to do anything...which is really weird for me. i'm a very anxious person...so sitting still is hard for me.
anyways, i've learned a lot about love this week.
my husband has been so good. doing EVERYTHING, taking the kids EVERYWHERE... taking care of me, and still having a good attitude about it. still giving me back rubs, running to the store, bringing me treats and telling me i look beautiful when i have a permanent ponytail (even without the elastic.. oh yeah, its gotten that bad) he tells me to rest and makes me feel loved. i think the worst part about being sick is that i feel bad to him....
so today i'm up, for the last 10 minutes so i thought i'd write a quick blog.. so i could remember how good he is to me even when i am so icky.
i hope this is the last week of sickness and i am alive and well next week!
thank you Lord for giving me a man that meant the 'sickness and health' part!!
have a good week and eat lots of good food on my behalf!
xo

reflection

you know that saying "don't make someone a priority when you are only and option"? how about "don't make someone a priority when you AREN'T EVEN an option"!!

haha!
This is a thought I've been pondering a lot lately. My husband and I are both guilty of it. Pouring into people over and over, only to be hurt and dissapointed.
He always says "do unto the Lord". Which I totally agree.. good things, effort, time given... it is all worth it.
BUT, I'm talking about those relationships that are a little closer...
I find that there are those that you give and take and the relationship is pretty even...those that you receive more from, and then there are those that you give and give and give... and nada. zip. zero. zilch. You pursue them, do all that you can do.. and rarely a call back, a text, anything. Always frustration, hurt, feelings of being let down. But yet you keep pursuing them. Do you love them? yes. BUT I feel like there comes a point where you back it up. Realize that they will not be or give you what you are hoping from the relationship..and ACCEPT what it is. Does that mean you totally give up? no, I think you just have to be more wise about how much you invest of yourself.. be there when they are... but don't chase them and then feel hurt when they don't respond.
I feel like I have experienced this on varying degrees. with close friends, not so close friends, family.... not everyone is willing, or able to give you the kind of friendship you are willing to give. So...I think I will be a little more careful on who I share everything I have with. Appreciate those friendships and relationships that ARE responsive.. and keep my heart soft, let the love flow... and let all my hurt feelings evaporate.
a wise man I know once said "only expect from people what they show you" true... very true.

Spring Flowers

The last couple of days have been tough. Morning sickness has once again taken over! So today I braved out to Michael's and got a couple of little things for me and my princess to work on together. We made these little felt flowers and glued magnets on them. We had to make a lot, because there was a long list of people she wanted to give them to! She has such a beautiful and generous heart. After making them I thought I'd make a quickie video on how to make them. They are super easy and adorable. You could stick them on hairbands, hairpins, bags.. super cute. Hope you enjoy and have a great week. I am hoping to come back to life soon!

Lazy Day

Today has been nice. I have done absolutely nothing productive. We are always on the go and in a rush, we rarely take a day and do nothing. My husband let me stay and bed and rest (which is nice, I've been so tired and haven't had a chance to rest!) We went outside with the kids and played basketball... well, lets re-phrase that... we threw the ball somewhere near the hoop and ran around in circles. Talked, laughed, had a tickle war and now everyone is taking a nap. There are loads of laundry and a pile of dishes..but I'm not too worried. I think some times you need to take a break and just 'be'.
While I was in bed I was watching episodes of TLC Baby Story. And the moment I wait for is right when the baby comes out. That moment when the baby is still purple and mom is in shock is so beautiful. It just doesn't make sense how that baby was in her belly, and is now out.... my mind cannot wrap itself around it. Just beautiful.
Anyways, I'm secretly waiting for the Fed Ex guy to get here. My husband shattered his glass screen on his Droid, and I have ordered parts to try to fix it myself. I found a video on YouTube, and I'm pretty confident I can do it! So now I'm just anxious to try. For all you droid-ers out there here is the video, I ordered all the parts off of amazon for pretty cheap:



You can buy phone cases and screen protectors for under $5 on Amazon, I would suggest it as I know many a shattered Droid owners!

On another note, I did a quick video a couple of days ago on how I keep my jewelry (especially my wedding ring) clean using stuff I already have.. hope its helpful!

quad lids

oh yes. my little monolids have turned into quadruple lids. i had a friend go "uh, what the heck are monolids?" monolids are usually on asian people, when we don't have an eyelid crease, thus making them hooded.. and monolid, opposed to double eyelid. Mine tend to fold...too much when I'm tired or sick. I actually like my eyes better without the fold (which is horrifying news to my Korean relatives who have offered to pay for me to get double eyelids). So, on days like today I feel funny, my eyes all wide and round. haha!! give me my almonds back! I have been SO tired, and hungry at all times. Can't seem to sleep when I get a chance though.


The other day I was flipping through my Lucky Magazine (there's a Lucky Kids now by the way, and it's awesome possum). And I saw and advertisement for these little hand lotions. How cute! so of course I did some investigating and tracked some down. Here is a little review! have a good week everyone!

Life in Bloom

Ok. I feel pregnant now. Boobs are sore, cramping.. bachache... tired... and SUPER hungry at the same time! haha! I have not been able to sleep the past couple of days. I think its a mixture of excitement and body changes. I cannot believe I am pregnant! I am excited and cannot wait to meet this new little one. I love baby smell. Baby noises... baby breath. It's all so beautiful. My daughter is so excited too. She can't stop talking about it and asking me questions... a little too many, and too in depth for a 4 year old.

I have been trying to figure out the logistics of everything, but the reality is, that like most other things... I can't figure it out. We will have to go with the flow.

AAAHHH! I still can't believe it!!

anyways I did a nail tutorial for the nails people have been asking about. It is super quick and easy. I call them my "life in bloom" nails. Hope you like! (sorry my hands are so dry and nasty, I should have rinsed and moisturized before taking the picture!)

Foggy Eyes.

wow. those two little lines change everything! I seriously carried that stick into every room, under every type of lighting. I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me. Why does that first line have to be so faint? They should make THAT line triple thick and bold! Even in the middle of the night I went back to the bathroom to double check! hahaha!!!
We are so excited that we are expanding our family... I still can't really wrap my head around it. I haven't been able to sleep since we found out.
I feel like, almost everyone has one, two is average and expected.. but the world of three is a little different. I feel like, am I being accessive? selfish? then I think... no, I love my kids so much and feel like I would never regret having another... but I would regret not.
So with that said.. here we go again!
It was so cute because my daughter has been praying every night for a little sister. The morning after we found out I said "what have you been praying for every night" her eyes widened and said "WE ARE GETTING A BABY SISTER?!?!" and I said "well honey, we don't know if it will be a brother or sister.. but maybe" and she said "well, that means maybe it COULD be a sister" and I said "true, but if its a brother mayb the next one will be a sister". and she said "OR, they could both be girls and I'd have TWO sisters!".
The girl is right. and very smart.
Anyways, I have to admit I'm anxious about being pregnant again. BUT with the other 2 I was already super nauseous and throwing up at this point... so, so far so good :)
Every child amazes me. So once again, Drew and I have created something that will last for ETERNITY. how great is that?!

friends...

Today is my most beautiful friend Maren's birthday!!! We have been friends for almost fifteen years!! She is the most creative, beautiful and HILARIOUS friend. I am so blessed in so many ways to know her.
Good friends are hard to come by, and as you get older... it becomes even harder. To have a friend that you can be completely comfortable with, be yourself, share anything and know their love for you does not change is such a wonderful thing.
Hope you had a wonderful day! I so wish we were in the same country!!!

Fittingly here is a song for you, sung by our very good friend Eric. We totally know he is going to make it BIG. He is humble, talented...and has such a serving heart.

Spare Tires

I'm having a 'ick' day. Most women have them. Today is mine. My wonderful hubby gave me some 'fun money' to go shopping. Bad day to go. First off, I wore the WRONG outfit. Everything was way too tight, I felt like a stuffed sausage. Sitting in the car I reached down and grabbed handfuls of spared tires that seem to have gotten larger around my midsection. I let out a big sigh... and then, my husband's voice so clearly came into my mind. He always tells me I'm beautiful and that he doesn't understand why I get self conscious or think I look fat...men. Then I stopped myself. The road I was about to go down in my mind is not a good road. I've been there before, and I just feel worse. Then I thought.. who does God say that I am? He says that I am beautiful and wonderful. When I look at myself in disgust, I am insulting His creation. So, I went to McDonald's and got a big mac. HAHAHHAHAHAHHAHAAAA!!!!! I am not saying that it is okay to mistreat your body and fuel it with big mac's... BUT it is also not okay to beat yourself up for something you are not. So with that, I am going to eat better tomorrow... and think more positive thoughts tomorrow, and maybe slap on an extra coat of lipstick (just to be safe! haha!)

Pink Orchid Lips...another trend for spring is the bright pink lips. I fear to say maybe Nicki Minaj had a little to do with this. Either way, I embrace the bright... Here are a couple of suggestions for lipsticks, enjoy~

Jeanius...

So I've been 'trend watching'. One of the upcoming color trends for makeup is 'denim eyes' basically anything denim-y. blues...greys.. you get it.
MAC is coming out with a line called "Jeanius".. which, is genius. It comes out March 3rd. Isn't the packaging adorable?

so I did a quickie tutorial. hope you enjoy!

Igloo

It has been pourig rain outside. Which for me, who has been sick, gives me another reason to stay in an oversized hoodie all day. Light some yummy smelling candles and watch movies with the kids.
Yesterday out of nowhere my daughter goes "mom, where did the igloo outside come from?" and of course I was like, what is that girl talking about?
a couple of hours later I went out to get some groceries, opened the door.. and low and behold. There is a huge pet igloo on my front door step.



now of course I am so thankful to whoever would think about my dog in this dreary weather... but the investigator in me wants to know who it was! I started listing off people in my mind right off the bat. (really, I think it might be my neighbor whose backyard is connect to our up the hill. she always looks down and is really concerned about our dog. calls me every time he barks. really.plus they have a big truck) Anyways, my wise husband says "if they wanted us to know who left it, they would have told us. Be thankful and don't investigate. It gives us a reason to be extra nice to everyone". He is right. So, in light of that.. whoever it was, thank you thank you!

thought I'd make a quick video since people often ask me what kind of candles I'm burning cuz they smell DELICIOUS!!! enjoy~

Pretty Little Liars

Ok. I admit it. I watch Pretty Little Liars and... I love it. From the fashion to the teenaged drama. I love it. What can I say...

So Hannah often wears this really pretty berry colored lip that I always catch myself wondering what it is the whole time she is in the scene. So I've been on the lookout, and I think I found one very comparible. L'Oreal's new infallible reds line has a beautiful berry color in #130 "Enduring Berry"

So today we are thinking of getting solar panels put on our house to create energy. Lower electric bill and in 12 years we will no longer have an electric bill... what are your thoughts?

Romeo and Juliet

Today we finished a series we are doing with some couples (and singles). Its filmed in the 80's, but there are so many good nuggets of wisdom. One that stuck out was "Even if you think you are not Romeo, I assure you, she is Juliet... so you better find the Romeo in you".
So true.
Every woman wants tenderness, love, gentleness.
He shared many stories of what love should be. One of the points was that the last act of love as a married couple is to release them when they pass away to the Lord. A loving act he remembered as he recollects a time when he visited a couple and the old lady was sitting by her husband's bedside stroking his hair, wondering if each breath would be his last.

I am so in love with my husband. more deeply than ever before. the thought of him ever not being there makes my heart so sad. I often see the couples out together, at restaurants... and they will sit through a whole meal without a word to each other. I don't ever want to become stagnant, lazy, or apathetic like that towards him. I enjoy and savor every moment. I have made it a point to try not to make a 'big deal' out of small things. There might come a day when I would give anyone for just one more moment, so I need to make each moment now count.

He is my Romeo.

On a totally different note, it has been a weird week. I often think things, and totally want to blog about it.. but then think "what if they read it". Then I think, maybe it wouldn't be so bad, they need a kick in the butt!
I just find that people who have the must 'suggestions' are the people who do the least. do you ever notice that? those who serve with good hearts rarely complain. Then there are those who have a suggestion, idea, complaint about everything and then they don't even show up. Someone told me this week, "don't expect so much from people. just expect from them what they show you". Good advice.

I am glad to see certain people resurface in my life. It is hard to watch people make choices that you know will hurt them, and even though you tell them over and over... they do it anyways. I wish I could save people from heartache, but I guess that is part of the learning process. So I pray hard, love them, and try to be a good friend. I'm determined to see people live beautiful, blessed, joyful lives.

On another unrelated note, today I discoved Puffs Plus with Lotion and Vicks. one word. AMAZING.

its been a rough week, and with raw noses and sore throats, this was a pleasant surprise. when you blow your nose or wipe, the menthol actually clears it. (not forever, but for the moment it feels amazing)
so that is all for now lovely people. leave me a comment, question or thoughts so I know you were here!

Tattoos

Ok. So I was hesitant to blog about this because there is so much to say regarding it. So I am actually going to bypass that whole discussion and just explain my tattoos.

First is Cosmetic Tattoos:
I got mine done in 2001, Cosmetic tattoos are semi-permanent so they last a couple of years and you need to get them touched up. I haven't yet...



Now tattoo-tattoos:
I thought for a long time about what I wanted, and where I wanted it. I had actually wanted one on my foot for a very long time, and then decided on getting it on my shoulder. My only advice (or atleast that I will give) is take your time. Don't do it on a whim... even if you have to wait to get an appointment with a really good artist. This is on you forever, you want to make sure it is what you want, where you want, and how you want. that is all.

Love Nails

Did another variation of the "love" nails...

its so fun doing them. I did these using the Konad Nail art system. I think its available in most mall now in the free standing kiosks.

B.R.A.T.

Our family went up to big bear this week.. only to be cabin ridden the whole time. my little munchkins got sick.. so we got cabin fever, literally.
We are back home now and on the BRAT (bananas, rice,applesauce, toast) diet until their tummies settle.

I was flipping through some magazines while I was there. sidenote: I do not do good with too much free time and nothing to do. I thought I was going crazy!
anyways, flipping through magazines... and I noticed a lot of the model's in different ads were sporting the half moon manicures.

I've always been on the border about the half moon. Part of me thinks it looks really cool, and then part of me thinks it looks weird. Either way, the trend is back. If you want me to do a video on how to, let me know.. it's super easy.


So Sue, if you are reading this... I went out and got the new One by One mascara, after you asked me if I tried it...I got curious.

Ok... So if you have thick eyelashes naturally, you will love this mascara. If your eyelashes are sparse like mine, not so much.
It does a really good job of separating the lashes so they look pretty and natural, very natural. It almost separates each lash too much for me. I need a little clump and thickness to my mascara. So for me, its a no go. but if you have lashes like my sister in law.. you will LOVE. that's it for now! let me know if you were here and what kind of things you like reading.

Hope you have a beautiful day...

Pantry Moths

Let me just start off with saying that I have had this yucky heebie jeebie feeling for the past couple of days.
About a week ago, I noticed a couple of little moths flying around our house. Didn't really think anything of it... then I started seeing more and more... I thought, hmmm.. I think they are coming from the pantry.
Upon further inspection I discovered something I would never wish on anyone. Lets just say, One moth can lay up to 300 eggs in one shot. They turn into larvae, then turn into a moth. sick.
So I started doing some research online like I always do.
All the websites seemed to have the same information.
Pantry moths usually come home with you from the market. Either inside of rice, grains, or other dry foods. Once you get home and put it in the pantry, GAME OVER.
for real.
To get rid of them, you have disgard all food in the pantry, clean the pantry with warm soapy water, vacuum, repeat... you can even get traps, and most of the time you see another infestation before its over.
I almost threw up. I held my breath and I swear I felt creepy squigglies on my body. Every time my hair fell on my face I freaked out.

~deep breaths~

So, I cleaned out the whole pantry. Washed, disinfected.. prayed over (haha!!) and left it empty for a couple of days.
Today I invested in a whole bunch of air tight containers... and I'm watching everything like a hawk.
so gross. AND a lot of work.

ick.

anyways, on a totally unrelated note. I sell Avon. I have for a while, and I totally forget that I do until someone mentions something about Avon. (shows how dedicated I am to it! haha!)
I've been asked a couple of times to do reviews on products I like and dislike, I've kind of put it off because there are so many things I've tried that I didn't know where to start. So here is me starting. This it the beginning of Avon Review central!



Here is a link to my Avon Shop too.... www.youravon.com/jbrattrud

Love in Little Packages...

you know how they say 'good things come in small packages'? It is so true.
my kids are little, compact, tiny little people...but they are so intuitive, full of love, non-judgemental, encouraging rays of light in my life.
My daughter truly has a loving and compassionate heart and always says the right thing at the right time.
"mom, are you sad a little? well, God made you perfect and I think you're perfect..so you don't have to be sad anymore"
or she'll just hug me and say:
"momma, you're the best mom I ever had" and I would say "I'm the only mom you ever had!" and she would say, "but you're the best mom in the whole wide world"
Every day this little girl brings color into my life. shows me a little more beauty, and reminds me of basic principles of love that I need to remember.
My son is smile. I know that is not proper english. But he is the essence of the word 'smile'. I can't look at him and not smile. He is joy in a dandelion head. haha!! Hearing my kids laugh and giggle is the best medicine. I really do wish I could bottle it and send it to people around the world. I think it could heal any sad heart.

I got a little package in the mail of these SPLENDID Wet N Wild eyeshadow palettes. who knew Wet N Wild was so hard to find nowadays??
anyways, here is a quickie every day look tutorial for one of the palettes, enjoy!

Dolce Vita for Target

I am the biggest cheap-o and normally would not pay $30 for shoes, especially ones I can't wear every day. Yes, I'm a grown woman...just a frugal one. Anyways, fell in love with these....




Today I am thankful for:
my coffee maker
nail clippers
my kids laughter
fine point pens
crisp cool air that hits you when you step outside after being in a hot kitchen

2011 spring trends

Here are some fashion trends I love coming up for spring 2011....

Lace, Macreme...I think if its done right, worn right is so beautiful.. feminine and romantic. I always think of lace, pearls, silk and satin in warm champagne colors... I was at Target yesterday and they had some cute little lace dresses on sale for $10!
The "belt purse". c'mon people. This is straight up a fanny pack WHICH I love. I got a hip/fanny pack last year, also at Target that I absolutely love. Kind of biker/rocker-ish. I wear it every time we go to Disneyland. I kept telling my husband fanny packs are gonna make a comeback... and I think they are! woo!

Bright, bold colors. I love colors. Especially yellow. Its just so happy and bright. Citrus colors look like they are popping up everywhere. I love it. Also stripes.. and the whole 60's thing.

Biker. I love biker jackets. Halle Berry wears them a lot and I love the sexy, tough feel they give off. This one is a longer version which I thought looked more 'feminine'. The short black with the collar up is a great option, and you can find them anywhere for pretty cheap. I got mine... again, at Target for $20 (is there anything I DON'T get at Target?! hmmm..)

Oh my goodness. I got clogs at.. yes, Target in the clearance section for $3.98 over the Christmas break. I love them. I feel cool. There are so many variations of the clog that I've seen. Forever 21 has some really cute ones right now for under $20. I think of my mon in the 70's wearing a pretty long flowy dress and her clogs. the 70's are making a comeback too.. love it.

Flared jeans. Thank you 70's... Skinny jeans have been in for too long. and lets be honest, they ony look good..well, if you're skinny. Every time I put them on, I see my reflection when I'm out and think.. "what was I thinking?! I look like a stuffed sausage!" Flares are great for more body types... and great with clogs!
Eclectic Florals. I like the whole mismatched-ness. Vintage colors...

anyways. that's a little fashion forecast.. hope it helps!

Purederm Sheet Mask

I discovered these korean sheet masks when I was in canada at walmart! they are a dollar something there so I picked up a few and then my mom sent me some she had got from korea... I think they are pretty accessible, and affordable!
I love them, I have seen a real improvement in the texture of my skin.
just make sure you warn your loved ones before prancing out of the bathroom looking like this!