Stoic Tia

Baby Room Wants

2012-01-23T12:30:00.000-06:00

When I was pregnant with Lincoln, Richard and I had all these ideas of how awesome his nursery would be. Then my pregnancy got complicated, he came early, and we were forced to put him in a partially finished BORING room. He eventually got an awesome room, in the form of the bad ass superhero room he currently resides in, but I can't help but feel sorry for infant Lincoln staring up from his crib at those blank white walls, just begging for something interesting to amuse him!! I refuse to let that happen again, so I am planning an amazing room that I WILL have done in time for this baby boy's arrival.

Theme: Where the Wild Things Are

Wants:

Vintage Map sailboat
DaVinci Emily Crib-we have this crib and matching changing table from Lincoln. It's in a really dark espresso, almost black color and I (luckily) still love it.
Dali Decals Birch Tree's--I'm wanting to do just the wall where the crib is with tree's, and I'm torn between this set of 8 decals, and the wallpaper in #20. These are cheaper so they'll probably win that battle...
Vintage Map Art by Stoic--this print from our Etsy shop will go perfect!
Set of 2 Branch Hooks
Bark Life picture frame
Must have a globe--this one is from Urban Outfitters, but I'm sure I can thrift one for WAY cheaper than $39
Spanish Moss Knobs --these are amazing!
"Not all who wander are lost" print
Moon in my Room Nightlight--I'm kinda obsessed with this and might put it in my room instead...
Ubiquity Lamp --like most things from Anthro this lamp is WAY out of my budget($298!!!!)...maybe I can figure a DIY out for this??
Around the World Letter
Set of 2 globe pendant lights...to hang over the rocking chair, but I only need one...
Driftwood Mirror--I think this would be an easy DIY project...and save me $149!!
Wild Things in the Woods print
Branch Curtain Tie-Backs
Another Vintage Map Art Canvas from our shop...
Where the Wild Things Are wooden sign for over the door...
Planks for the Memories pillow--for cushioning my ass during all those restless nights spent in the rocking chair...
Option #2 for the tree's...LOVE this wallpaper, but I would have to get 2 rolls=$400. No thanks.

So those are my ideas so far! Love it?? Hate it??

if you have any other ideas I'd LOVE to hear them,

4 months till baby=GO TIME!

My life in photos...

2012-01-19T14:25:00.000-06:00

for oh, you know...just the past 2 months!!! Time has been flying!

So I know it's late, but Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!

Here's what's been going on in my life:

I've fallen in love....twice actually. First with my maternity pillow. I mean really, who needs a man when you can curl up in that!?!?

Apparently my "who needs a man" comment might have jinxed me, because guess who's getting another man in her life?? This girl. That's right, although he just looks like a tiny alien in this picture, I have been assured that it is in fact a boy!! I'm getting outnumbered...but who cares...I'm in love already♥

"First they're sour, then they're sweet"

We took Lincoln back to the Shriner's to have his bowleggedness checked out, and I'm happy to report that he is outgrowing it nicely. Still Super pigeon toed, but they believe it will be all fixed by age 5...HOORAY!!

I hosted our "Santa's Arrival" party at the mall. Santa's totally waving to me...we're tight like that.

(and I reminded Lincoln of that every. single. day.)

Celebrated the New Year (only an hour early) with sparkling cider...children and pregnant people just aren't much fun on New years:(

I have been baking my face off!! I don't know if it's the pregnancy or what...but I feel like baking ALL THE TIME!!

Good: These AMAZING cinnamon rolls.

Not good: my fat ass.

That's all I got. Seriously. My life is boring lately.

Cyber Monday!

2011-11-28T12:26:00.000-06:00

Just a quick post to let everyone know about FREE SHIPPING in our Etsy shop for Cyber Monday!!

There's lots of good deals and new stuff.

You can also get 2 canvases for $40 by entering coupon code 2FOR40 at checkout!

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!! Ill try to post my adventures in cooking Thanksgiving for the first time...for 15 people...including Richard and my families sometime soon. It was intense!

P.S. Pregnancy is moving right along! We find out in December what's cooking in there!

Coming May 2012

2011-10-17T14:58:00.002-05:00

Life keeps getting in the way...

2011-10-11T14:43:00.001-05:00

I hear you wondering "What the hell could be so busy and important in her life to keep her away for so long??" Trust me, I was wondering the same thing myself. I took a trip through my iPhone photos to remind myself what I've been doing for the past month and a half.

My mom had a birthday. I made delicious Shirley Temple cupcakes, even though she's well over the drinking age:)

We took a trip to Indy to visit my dear sister, and to see her new house.

We spent a day at the Children's Museum there.

Highlight of my day? Talking on the Barbie phone. Lincoln was content digging for bones.

art shows and more art shows. Check out our shop, we have a lot of new canvases to get listed for the holidays.

Perfect Fall Festival weather. See that adorable child with his hair blowing in the wind? yeah, thats my kid:)
click the pic to see it larger...which I'm sure you want to do...as he is just too, too cute.

I did a raw food detox. Sounds crazy, but I would really recommend it. I was planning on doing another one the week after Fall Festival, since I succesfully filled my arteries with grease and an overload of sugar, but unfortunately, a little something got in the way...

In case you can't read that little window

I'M PREGANANT!!

The newest member to our little family will be making his or her debut in May, and we can not wait.

Lincoln wants a boy that we can name Robin so he can be Batman, but Richard and I couldn't care less.

We are just beyond pumped to have another baby.

I'll do my best to keep you all posted on the happenings,

♥

Fresh to Death

2011-08-25T10:55:00.000-05:00

Richard and I just did some updating to our Etsy shop, and added a Facebook page! We have lots of new stuff to add, including some new canvas ideas and a ton of jewelry. Which I know you'll want to stay updated on soooooo....

Maybe you can do me a solid, be a sweet pal, make my day, etc. by liking our Facebook page?? I'll owe you big time..

Here's the link:

STOIC

Thanks, and have a lovely day!

schools in!

2011-08-12T16:00:00.001-05:00

First day of preschool was a success, he even asked if he could stay the night:)

the force.

2011-08-02T13:55:00.000-05:00

My little man turned three last month. Not so little anymore....

I must have mentioned to him and one time or another that I would be sad to see him grow up, and to not have him be my baby anymore. So now anytime I mention how big he is getting, he says, with the widest eyes imaginable, "And your going to cry when me gets big??" And I say "maybe just a little bit...."

My (not-so) little man had his heart set on having a Star Wars birthday party, so a Star Wars birthday party we had. It was only a mild 100° outside, so we said what the heck, an outside party seems divine!
and it was.

waiting patiently for the party to get started....in snow boots.

the spread.

Including such treats as Droid Dip with Tuscan Taters; Death Star Cheese Ball; Yoda Soda;
Bossk Beans; Sith Salad; Jar-Jar links; The Force fruit bowl

Light Saber napkins and Han Sandwiches.

Get it? HAN sandwiches?? Like HAN Solo??? Only their HAM sandwiches???? Stay with my folks...

Yes, I cut 60 tiny sandwiches out with cookie cutters. It took no time at all, really.

Boys will be boys, no matter how old they get. The pool noodle light sabers were a big hit.

Star Wars mask...kinda creepy, but everything looks cute on my sweet neice Izzy.

Red velvet and white cupcakes with cream cheese icing...so good

Pretzal stick "light sabers" and strawberry banana ice cream...this one stole the show.

This ice cream is amazing.

Ratatouille sounds like "rat" and "patootie." Rat-patootie, which does not sound delicious.

2011-07-08T12:35:00.001-05:00

But it IS.

Of course with having a kid I can't help but think of Remy & Linguini whenever I hear Ratatouille. But (huge suprise to Lincoln) it is actually food. When I told him what we were having for dinner last night, to say he was confused would be putting it mildley. Pretty sure he thought we were eatting Remy and all his little mice friends....

Ratatouille Wraps-As promised, awesome vegetarian recipe!

½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 large eggplant, cut into ½-inch cubes
1 large zucchini, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise
1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 tomatoes, chopped
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt & Pepper
4 large whole wheat wraps
Shredded Montery Jack cheese

In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook, stirring, until golden, about 5 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, the zucchini, onion, bell pepper and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper and cook, stirring, until crisp-tender, about 6 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and thyme, partially cover and cook until tender, about 5 minutes; season with salt and pepper. Simmer, uncovered, for 2 minutes more to cook off any liquid. Transfer to a large bowl and wipe the skillet clean.

Lay the wraps on a work surface. Sprinkle about a 1/4 cup of cheese in the center of each wrap and top with about 3/4 cup ratatouille. Fold burrito-style to enclose.

In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 wraps, seam side down, and cook, turning once, until golden, about 4 minutes. Repeat with the remaining olive oil and wraps.

This was so easy, and so delicious! I just ate another one for lunch today, and I think it might have been even better as leftovers.

T.G.I.F....Have an awesome weekend!!!!

Be the change

2011-07-05T16:19:00.000-05:00

There is major change needed in our food system, and while it may seem that your voice doesn't matter, every descision you make food wise adds up to a vote for the kind of food our government allows to be served. Its basically supply and demand at it's simpliest form, and we need to start demanding better! If you haven't seen Food, Inc, they explained it best when they described your food purchasing practices in terms of voting. Everytime you buy a fast food cheeseburger, a can of soda, or any kind of proceessed food, you are putting in your vote to say that that food is what you want to be supplied. So now when I'm at the grocery store, I try to really think about all my purchases in terms of votes. Would I rather vote for fresh, local or organically grown fruits and vegetables, or processed, sweetened and chemically enhanced snacks? I think you know the answer:)

Here are 10 simple steps you and your family can take to vote for the change we need:

1. Stop drinking sodas and other sweetened beverages. I try to drink nothing but water and unsweetened tea, and even Lincoln likes unsweetened tea, since we haven't introduced him to any sweetened beverages. Start young with teaching your kids good eating habits!

Sometimes Lincoln has juice, check out that juice mustache! We love Naked juice, it has no added sugar or chemicals, several servings of fruit, and taste amazing!

2.Eat at home instead of eating out. Anything you can get at a restaurant you can make for yourself with a little effort. That way you can control the ingredients, and know for sure what is going into your body. Plus, children consume almost twice as many calories when eating food prepared outside the home, so give your kids a fighting change against childhood obesity by feeding them yourself. Its easy!

3. Bring food labeling into the 21st Century. "Half of the leading chain restaurants provide no nutritional information to their customers." If places are proud of their ingredients and stand by their product, why would they not want to share with the public this basic information? Because they are sneaky snakes, thats why.

4. Tell schools to stop selling sodas, junk food, and sports drinks. Over the last two decades, rates of obesity have tripled in children and adolescents aged 6 to 19 years. I'd say that constitutes a BIG problem.

5. Meatless Mondays—Go without meat one day a week. Do yourself a favor, and watch Food, Inc. It will jump start your desire to eat less meat! We have really limited our meat intake, and the postive changes are incredible. Richard and I have both lost wieght, with out feeling like we are dieting, and without working out. When we do eat meat, we make sure we only have one meal that day containing meat, and that meat is never the main focus of our meal. I will start posting some of the deliscious meatless recipes we've been trying, and trust me, you will not feel like you are missing out!

6. Buy organic or sustainable food with little or no pesticides. According to the EPA, over 1 billion pounds of pesticides are used each year in the U.S. Thats chemicals that then go into your body! No bueno!! Buy organic, shop local, nad ask questions. It's your right to know where your food comes from and how its treated.

7. Protect family farms; visit your local farmer's market. Farmer's markets allow farmers to keep 80 to 90 cents of each dollar spent by the consumer. And the farmers don't have to follow the rules of the big corporations, who do not have your best interest in mind.

8. Make a point to know where your food comes from—READ LABELS. The average meal travels 1500 miles from the farm to your dinner plate.

9. Tell Congress that food safety is important to you. Each year, contaminated food causes millions of illnesses and thousands of deaths in the U.S.

10. Demand job protections for farm workers and food processors, ensuring fair wages and other protections. Poverty among farm workers is more than twice that of all wage and salary employees. Help take care of the people who can provide you with good, healthy food.

Check out Hungry for Change for more on these tips, plus so much more.

Be the change you wish to see in the world.

My life, according to my iPhone

2011-06-28T16:42:00.001-05:00

My silly boy...

Lots of gardening...

Resulting in our first tomato!!

A sick boy(who loves popcorn)

Another sick boy(who also loves moms iPod)

Lots of jewelry making

And art making to get ready for an awesome art fair:

Memorial Day weekend...

2011-05-31T14:04:00.001-05:00

Blue jean Friday at work...perfect start to the long weekend.

Funfetti cupcakes with homemade cream cheese icing for our friend Wade's birthday on saturday.

Letting Wade's wife Sarah chop my hair off Saturday night after a few margaritas.

Potty training Lincoln, who now refuses to cover up his awesome undies with pj's. Do you see how this child sleeps?! Impossible.

Hotness. Making me glad I have a little less hair to deal with.

And finally, the winner of the TruKid skincare giveaway is.....
Brittany from The Best Place To Be a Mom!!
Congrat Brittany! Send me an email with your info so we can get your goodies shipped out!

Hope everyone else had an awesome loooong weekend!

Green's not really my color...

2011-05-25T15:27:00.000-05:00

I recently had an epiphnay. Really I don't know if it was an epiphany, or just a decision to make a change, or just a whim....
But whatever it was, I felt an urge to make it happen right away. I decided I want to to be more self sufficient. I want to be less reliant on consumerism, and more able to provide for myself and my family.
I know ideas of going green, eating organic and DIY are nothing new, and I'm not claiming to be on the forefront of any revolution. If anything, I'm years behind! But I think that with getting a little older, a little wiser, and thinking about the future that is in store for Lincoln, it has just now hit me how important this is. Im taking baby steps, which is neccesarry for a person who drinks 3 bottled waters a day, takes super long showers and hardley recycles!

Here's my humble beginnings:

1. Recycle, duh.

Yeah, that's a box of wine in our recycling bin. Don't judge.

2. Grow your own.

I grew this basil plant in my kitchen window from one of those starter kits that you really can't screw up...I think it gave me a false sense of accomplishment. So this past weekend Richard and I got our hands dirty and attempted our own mini garden.

There's lettuce, green peppers, strawberries, tomatoes and a few pretty flowers to keep it pretty. May not be much to look at now...but give it a few weeks and that Topsy Turvey is going to blow your mind! (fingers crossed)

Music Monday

2011-05-23T12:24:00.001-05:00

	Landon Pigg - Falling In Love At A Coffee Shop .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

the joys of parenting

2011-05-20T16:18:00.000-05:00

*Lincoln woke up at about 3:30 am, screaming bloody murder. We usually let him cry for a bit, and he'll put himself to sleep. But not this time. He screams on and off for well over 2 hours, which is confusing because he's totally capable of getting his butt out of bed and walking into our room, where in most cases he could just crawl into our bed and go back to sleep, as we are WAY to lazy to take him back to his own room. So finally around 6 I go into his room, and ask him what the fuck his problem is. He looks at me with a straight face and says "you left your book in my room." I thought for sure that the cause of his distress was a creepy shawdow outside his window or the typical "my pee pee hurts" (damn morning wood), not the fact that I left the book I had been reading the nght before laying in his chair. Really makes me rethink having more kids...

* I ask Lincoln what he wants for breakfast. He says candy, and, as if it makes any difference, goes to great lengths to stress that he only wants ONE peice of candy when I say no. I leave him screaming and crying in his chair for a few minutes, then return to see if he's changed his mind. He has! YAY! He now wants mac and cheese. The kind with Cars on it. And honestly, I would have fixed the kid mac and cheese just to shut him up, but there was no time. So he had to suffer through a bowl of instant oatmeal, giving me the stink eye the entire time.

*Lincoln called Richard a "stupid head." I'm sure that this language is the work of Kendall...the biggest bitch at the playground. I never thought it was possible to hate a small child, but Kendall is quickly becoming the bane of my existence. Bitch.

This is obviously Violet Beauregarde from Willy Wonka, but dude, if you knew Kendall, you would think this was HILARIOUS, as she looks and acts just like the side eye pictured above.

*And now I'm at work, counting down the minutes to 5 o'clock....because it's Friday, and I'm ready to get the heck outta dodge!

No big plans, maybe a date with Monsier Cheese, at what can only be described as the happiest place ~~on earth~~ in southern Indiana. Me and Chuck, we go way back. I'm saving my tickets for a life size version of the Big Cheese himself...i'll let you know how that goes!

Have a great weekend!!

Be sure to check out my giveaway if you have kids...or like to smell like a kid.

TruKid Skincare Giveaway!CLOSED

2011-05-20T16:17:00.002-05:00

I love finding good skincare products for myself, but dont usually put much thought into what Lincoln uses. I typically just buy whatever is on sale, or which bottle has his favorite cartoon character on it. I just got to try some skincare products from TruKid, and I was really impressed.

The "Happy Face and Body Lotion" smells AMAZING, and goes on super smooth and dries fast, perfect for little kids on the go. And Lincoln LOVES putting it on, like his own little spa time:)

We also tried out the "Sunny Days All Natural SPF" in the lotion and the face stick. Im a BIG fan of stick sunscreen, so easy to apply and carry everywhere.

The best part of these products? They are natural, non-toxic and safe for kids to use, as well as being free of Parabens, Phthalates, Gluten, BPA, SLS, 1-4 Dioxzane and fragrances. They also use a really fun and easy learning system with colors and symbols. The bottles are color coded so kids can see at a glance which product is for their bodies, hair and faces. Plus, with easy to read symbols, kids can quickly identify each products use. Such as:

This is clearly products meant for your crazy hair!

This one means: get a big person to help!

Now for you!

*TruKid has offered all of you a coupon code! Get a free hand lotion with any order of $35 or more, just enter coupon code happymom when you make a purchase at http://trukid.3dcartstores.com/

*One reader will get a selection of 3 products from TruKids line! Here's 3 ways to enter:
1. Be a follower of my blog, please!
2. Like TruKid on Facebook
3. Subscribe to TruKids mailing list:http://www.trukid.com/ (On the right, about halfway down the page)

Leave me a comment letting me know which ones you did, and get up to 3 entries!
The giveaway will close Sunday May 29th at midnight...good luck!!

such a hipster....

2011-05-12T09:37:00.000-05:00

Just had to share....how freakin adorable my kid is!

Music Monday

2011-05-09T16:47:00.001-05:00

	Elizabeth & The Catapult - Momma's Boy .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Can't Stop The Rain

2011-04-26T15:56:00.003-05:00

photos via Evansville Courier & Press
It has been raining here for, no joke, a week straight. I'm so sick of seeing water! I can't get a goon night sleep because the sirens have been going off every. single. night! Boo storms. I'm over it.

Needless to say, Easter was a little damp. But we still dyed eggs and had an indoor egg hunt.

How was you Easter weekend??

Music Monday

2011-04-25T12:51:00.001-05:00

	Wax Tailor - Que sera .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Comfort Food

2011-04-20T11:14:00.000-05:00

There's something very special about comfort food, and the way it can make you feel all warm and safe inside, even if everything is going to shit.

After my Grandma's funeral last week, they served fried chicken, potato salad and red velvet cake; a perfect trio of comfort food.

To me, the BLT is another comfort food that always hits the spot. After an awful day at work, nothing can make me feel better the way warm bacon can!

Last night I tried a new spin on the classic BLT, and it was AMAZING!

A BLT salad with homemade buttermilk dressing...

I think this will be my new go-to food for those days when everythings going wrong...followed by lots of wine, of course!

BLT salad with buttermilk dressing

*Whisk together 1/4 cup buttermilk, 2 tablespoons mayo, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon chopped dill. Add salt and pepper to taste.

*Cook bacon, and crumble

*Preheat ovens broiler. On a baking sheet, layout lettuce leaves and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt & pepper. Broil till lettuce starts to get brown on the edges.

*Layer lettuce, tomatoes, crumbled bacon and croutons on a plate, and pour on the dressing.

Eat and relish in the way this salad makes you feel like all is right in the world.

Music Monday

2011-04-18T13:12:00.003-05:00

posted this on my lunch break yesterday....

just now noticed that didn't happen so much...

thanks Blogger!!

	bright eyes - ( )First Day Of My Life .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Working Woman

2011-03-14T14:36:00.002-05:00

Dudes.

Why has it been FOREVER since I've posted?? I'm having Blogger withdrawals, for real.

I blame it on the jo-o-o-o-o-o-o-ob.
Just realized, I have told ya'll NOTHING about my new gig!

I am the marketing assistant at our local mall (It's a Simon Mall, maybe you have one in your hood??) So boooooooo, I work at the mall, but yay!!!!! It's awesome. After coming from a place where I worked with some of the stupidest people I have ever encountered, I'm relieved to finally work with real life grown-ups and people with common sense!

It's truely amazing. Only downfall being that everyone here is old enough to have given birth to me...so that kinda sucks. But along with their support hose and grandkid stories comes a wealth of knowledge, so I'll take it! I kid, they all aren't THAT old, but the next youngest person is seriously 14 years my senior...soooooooo...I have nobody to discuss the Jersey Shore with. Boo.

My only other major rant about this place is the lack of boundaries when it comes to bringing your persoanl business to your actual place of business. No joke, I have seen every female who works here break down into tears at least once...some mulitple times...and I have been here a total of 2 months. Whoa. Maybe it's one of the many things that gets a little looser as we age, but I am a strick believer in a firm leave-your-personal-shit-at-home policy. And this place is SERIOUSLY lacking.

But I digress. Other than those 2 minor imperfections...the job is golden!

I get to do fun marketing things, which actually use that big fancy degree I spent a ton of money and 5 years of my life earning, so that not only rocks my world, but pretty much makes up for any not so awesome parts of the job. The best part so far has been doing the Kidgits Club, which is their children's program. I get to plan and put on these fun events for the members, and right now I am working on the Breakfast with the Easter Bunny event. I'm thinking bunny and duckie petting zoo, face painting, egg hunts, easter baskets and so much more!

So that's whats up.
♥

Happy birthday to me...!

2011-02-20T08:10:00.001-06:00

Today I turn 27! Exciting, exciting, I know. I like to treat birthdays like New Years, giving myself resolutions on how I'll be better in this next chapter of my life. So in my 27th year, I will (try) to eat healthier, be happier, and live life to the fullest. I think most importantly I want to fill my days with doing things that matter, instead of wasting time sitting on the couch, being bored.

So happy birthday to me....
Now back to bed, I just woke up with the worst sore throat in the history of sore throats, and will therefore be spending the next few hours buried under the covers.

<3

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Happy Valentines Day!!

2011-02-14T16:27:00.000-06:00

Hope you all are having an amazing Valentines Day!!

Can't you feel the love?!?!

Also wanted to announce the winner of the $45 CSN Stores giveaway is...

Ali from N.C. Baby Blog!

Congrats!!

♥♥♥♥♥

Will you still love me if I shower you with gifts?

2011-02-03T14:36:00.002-06:00

I'm a bad blogger. I haven't even peeked at anyones blogs in weeks. Im having some withdrawal, but mostly wondering how I had so much time at my old job to sit on the internet all day!

I'm going to try to buy my way back into your good graces, with a giveaway!

The ever popular CSN Stores has generously offered to give one of you a $45 gift code to use in any of their 200 online store's!

YAY!

If you don't know about CSN Stores, you must be living under a rock. But I'll fill you in. THEY HAVE EVERYTHING!! I am currently eyeing a killer swing set for the little man to enjoy once this winter decides to pack up and get out.
***CLOSED***
How to Enter:
1. Be a follower
2. Leave a comment before midnight on Thursday, 2/10/2011

Yeah, it's that easy. I don't have time for anything else! Gotta run before I get fired....I'll announce the winner next Friday, 2/11/2011

It's been awhile...

2011-01-24T12:18:00.001-06:00

So the new job is officially kicking my blogs ass. I typically would only blog while on the clock, and apparently that's a big no no with a new job....so sorry I've been mia for awhile!

Quick update(whilst on my lunch break)
I LOVE my new job!! I'm still in the feeling like the stupid new kid phase, buts once that's passed I think I will fit right in!

Lincoln is good, except for his new found fondness for removing his pants. While cooking dinner a few nights ago I go into the living room to check on him. I find him with his pants down, making elephant noises. His pee-pee was the elephants trunk. Clever kid.

And that's about it! I can't wait to catch up in everybody's blogs...thank god for iPhones!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Fist Pump Friday

2011-01-07T12:10:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday my pretties!!

Hope you all have had a stellar week...I know I have!

So this Fist Pump Friday is all about the good things in my life right now, like....

*Going to see the Shriner's about Lincoln's legs yesterday, and them giving us hope that his bones are working really hard to correct themselves, so we may not need surgery! YAY! It was so cool to see the xrays that actually showed the new bone forming, and to be reassured that, in time, my little man will be able to run and play sports and do what ever else he feels like doing...with out being held back by physical problems.

*Being a week closer to starting my new big girl job! I just have next week left at the job from hell, then I'm off to bigger and better things! And new professional clothes....which means I better get shopping. i have worn nothing but jeans to work for the past 3.5 years, and the new gig says helltotheno to the dungarees. Upside? I love a perfectly indisputable reason to go shopping. Downside? My town has a serious lack of good shopping spots....

*But STL doesn't! Which is exactly where I'll be this weekend. Me and the boys are heading back to St. Louis tomorrow to catch the Rangers vs. Blues hockey game, and I'm just thinking I might be able to put on my best puppy dog eyes to say "but Richard, I HAVE to have new work clothes! puh-puh-puh-PLEASE take me shopping??" Works like a charm!

Have a freakin fantastic weekend!!

♥♥♥

Well that was fast...

2010-12-30T16:05:00.001-06:00

I can't believe that good ole 2010 is just about in the rearview mirror. And man oh man, where have the past 2 weeks gone? I have been a blog hermit. But for good reason, I promise.
There was Christmas, with lots of presents for Lincoln.

cookies for Santa. Christmas tree. playing with Lincoln Logs(get it?!?!) exhausted from the festivities.

Then there has been the whole issue of telling my boss I'm leaving...because I GOT A NEW JOB!!!! That's right, the job I have been bitching about forever is about to be no more! January 17th I will officially start my new position working at the mall. Joking. Well it is at the mall, but I will be the marketing assistant! So using my degree and being all professional and shit. I. Can't. Wait.

Have a happy new year, be safe, and I'll be back in 2011 with more updates!

♥♥♥

This is ridiculous...

2010-12-16T08:57:00.001-06:00

but this kinda makes up for it...

Kardashian Christmas cards via Celebuzz

24 Simple Truths

2010-12-15T14:44:00.000-06:00

1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.

2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.

3. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

4. There is great need for a sarcasm font.

5. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

6. Was learning cursive really necessary?

7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on #5.

I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.

9. I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.

10. Bad decisions make good stories.

11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.

12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after BluRay? I don't want to have to restart my collection...again.

13. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page technical report that I swear I did not make any changes to.

14. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.

15. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

16. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lite than Kay.

17. I wish Google Maps had an "Avoid Ghetto" routing option.

18. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.

19. How many times is it appropriate to say "What?" before you just nod and smile because you still didn't hear or understand a word they said?

20. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters!

21. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.

22. Sometimes I'll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.

23. Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I'd bet

everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time.

24. The first testicular guard, the "Cup," was used in Hockey in 1874 and the first helmet was used in 1974. That means it only took 100 years for men to realize that their brain is also important.

*I got this off an email I was sent and thought it was too funny not to share!

Happy hump day!

♥♥♥

Music Monday XV

2010-12-13T11:42:00.001-06:00

Via

	The Blow - Pardon Me .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Hope everyone had a great weekend! I made my first batch of hot chocolate on a stick, and we got our first snow of the season!

Happy Monday!

♥

Fist Pump Friday Christmas List Edition

2010-12-10T14:48:00.000-06:00

Holy moly, Christmas will be here in no time! Do you have all your shopping done? I only have my mom left, and she's frickin' impossible! If you need some help, here are a few things that I am giving this year!

*Alphacritter Mousepad

This is the cutest gift idea! Of course Anthropology always has the best stuff, and at $12 these are a steal. Mine would be a tiger, and I want it. Hint Hint.

*Aurora World plush toys

Lincoln has been obsessed with these YooHoo and Friends stuffed animals for the longest time! He calls them his "friends", and carries them around and sets them up places. They are cute, and they make different little noises when you squeeze them. They came out with these cute "Retro" YooHoo's, and I knew I had to have them. I got him the "60's British Rocker" who is clearly modeled after a Beatle, and the super cute "Love" YooHoo, who makes little kissing sounds! I also got the "Paws Puppets" for my nephew, and the"Fancy Pals" pet carrier for my niece. All of these are under $20, and if you order before Dec. 18th, your guaranteed delivery by Christmas!

*Rhino Toys Oballs

Oballs are amazing (Sounded dirty didn't it?? Well you need to get your mind outta the gutter.) They are these jelly-plastic balls full of holes that make them great for kids to catch and throw. Plus, they are impossible to tear-up and are soft enough to not hurt anyone with! I got the Bat & Oball set and Oball footballs for Lincoln and every other boy on my Christmas list. Bat sets are $14.00 and footballs $8.99, and as long as you order by the 18th, your guaranteed to have them before Christmas!

Good luck getting your shopping done, and have an awesome weekend!

♥♥♥

It's getting close.

2010-12-09T16:12:00.002-06:00

So I thought I was over the cold from hell, but I just got tricked. Went to the Dr. yesterday and found out the bitch gave me bronchitis.

Awesome.
So here I sit with my handy inhaler, attempting to breath normally.

It sucks.

But I just decided what my Christmas gift craft is going to be, and had to share!

Homemade Hot Chocolate on a Stick in Monogrammed Mugs!!!!

I'm excited, can you tell?

I found this DIY Monogram Mug tutorial on Design Mom's blog and then this Hot Chocolate on a Stick tutorial at the Giver's Log. Put them together, and I'm in DIY Christmas heaven! I got my mugs (I'm to lazy to scour the shelves at Goodwill, so I bought new ones today) and will be shopping for yummy chocolate this weekend.

I better get busy, Christmas will be here before we know it!

P.S. Lincoln has a preliminary appointment at the Shriner's next month. So keeping our fingers crossed that they accept him!

My bowlegged baby...

2010-12-03T14:20:00.000-06:00

I have had the week from hell! The worst cold ever has swept through my house, infecting us all. Starting to feel better today, but still think my head might explode at any second. So this will be brief, because my eyes are starting to water from looking at the computer screen...

Since he was born, we have been worried about how bowlegged Lincoln is. Once he started walking, we noticed that he was not only bowlegged, by incredibly pigeon toed. We brought this up to our pediatrician every time we saw him, but he assured us it was nothing to worry about and that he would grow out of it as he got older. Well for several reasons, we recently switched to a new pediatrician, who on our first visit acknowledged that Lincoln's legs were more bowed than the average child, and that we needed to see a specialist to see what measures needed to be taken to correct the problem.

I know, your all like "what problem??!?!" All you see is the cutest. face. ever. But it's there, lurking under his baggy jeans...

We went today to Orthopedic Associates,

where they gave my brave little boy an xray:

Then he got a sticker for being so good:

Then we waited to hear what the doctor had to say...

And after he reviewed the xray he determined that my child's legs are indeed a little crazy.

But what next?? We have yet to see, as now we have been referred to yet another specialist. In Indianapolis. 4 hours from here.

I know its not a life or death situation, but I'm worried. Worried that he could need surgery. Worried that it's not fixable and kids will make fun of him when he's older. Worried that we can't afford what he needs.

When it comes to your babies, even the smallest of things can feel like the end of the world.

Hope you all have a great weekend! I'm going to enjoy a glass (or 5) of wine, and try to not stress about my poor boys cowboy legs!

♥♥♥

Music Monday XIV

2010-11-29T13:55:00.000-06:00

	Grace Potter and the Nocturnals - Apologies .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

I'm too upset about the weekend being over to even discuss Thanksgiving.

Let catch up tomorrow?

K Thanks,

♥ me

Just waiting to stuff my face....

2010-11-24T10:26:00.002-06:00

I can not even express in words how pumped I am to chow down on some turkey tomorrow!!! This day can not get over fast enough!! I'm tasting the cranberry sauce and stuffing already...

And then comes the shopping. I am attempting to cover most of my xmas list with online shopping...screw those crazy crowds!! I'm needing to look at bar tables and stools for my mom, and a new toaster for the sis...so much fun stuff.

I am going to have to brave the lunatics to go to one store...

the worst store of them all...

Toy R Us.

This store in enevitably going to be bursting at the seams with crazy mom's and dad's, trying to score their $10 pillow pets and 50% Toy Story characters....and I'll be one of them. Cause my little man is dying for these figurines, and I'll be damned if I'm going to pay full price when with just a little pushing and perhaps a cat fight or 2, I can get them for half off.

Damn you Toy R Us and your exclusive items. Damn you.

Anywho, hope you all have a FANTASTIC Thanksgiving, and if I make it our alive, I'll catch up with you after the looooooong weekend!

Music Monday XIII

2010-11-22T08:56:00.001-06:00

	Years Time .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Noah & The Whale: 5 Years Time

Fist Pump Friday Christmas List Edition

2010-11-19T12:14:00.002-06:00

Another week, another Christmas gift guide....hope everyones getting a head start on their shopping like me!!

But first things first.

The winner of the Cradle Rock CD giveaway is...

Congrats!!

*Little Miss Momma's Keep Calm and Carry On Tan Burlap Pillow Cover

Love these pillow covers!! So cute, and neutral, so they would go with anyones decor. Making them the perfect gift!

*Stachin' Bottles Corkscrew

I often find myself wondering how I can make drinking wine funner (more fun??). And now I have found the solution! Perfect gift for all the mustache lovers in your life!

*Urban Outfitters Daydream Catchers

Whether you just need a small gift for someone (teacher, coworker, etc.) or need a little add-on, these are perfect. At only $8 a piece, you can afford them for everyone!

Have a great weekend!! I am SO looking forward to the 3 day work week coming up!!

Tasty Tuesdays: Chicken Cordon Bleu

2010-11-16T12:20:00.001-06:00

This is one of my favorite dishes EVER! It's fairly easy, taste delicious, and looks pretty, so its perfect to serve when you have guest. And don't skimp on the sauce, it's the best part!

Ingredients:

4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

6 slices swiss cheese

4 slices cooked deli ham

1/2 cup italian seasoned bread crumbs

2 eggs

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Coat a 7x11" baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Pound chicken breast to quarter inch thickness...or just do like ma and cut them in half.

3. Sprinkle each piece of chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Place 1 cheese slice and 1 ham slice on top of each breast. Roll up each breast and secure with toothpicks.

4. Dip each rolled breast in egg wash, then roll in bread crumbs, getting it completely coated.

5. Place in baking dish, and top each roll with a pat of butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until no longer pink. Remove from oven and place 1/2 cheese slice on top of each, then return to oven until cheese is melted.

6. Remove toothpicks and slice rolls. Serve immediately with sauce (recipe below)

Sauce:

In a small saucepan mix 1 can of Cream of Chicken soup, 1/2 cup sour cream and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Heat, and serve over top of finished chicken.

Aaaaaannnnndddddd....my mouth is watering just thinking about it! I'm off to lunch...

Happy Tuesday!!

adapted from recipe found here

Music Monday XII

2010-11-15T10:37:00.000-06:00

	Psapp - Psapp - Calm Down .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Fist Pump Friday Christmas List Edition+Giveaway

2010-11-12T13:57:00.007-06:00

Happy Friday!!!

I know its early November, but I am a fanatic about getting the
x-mas shopping done EARLY! So from now until the big day, Fist Pump Friday's will be all about whats hot for Christmas! Plus a few giveaways to help with your own Christmas list:)

Get excited.

*Dr. Seuss Converse

I'm a die hard Converse wearer, and am in LOVE with these fun new designs!! I have to get some for the little dude, so he can be the coolest kid at daycare.

*Funky & fun pillow cases

Awesome. If nobody gets me these, I will be really upset. Check out Urban Outfitter for more styles, and for only $28, get them for all your pals.

*Lalaloopsy Dolls.

These are the cutest dolls I've seen in a LONG time. Not at all skanky! And reminisant of my beloved Cabbage Dolls, they each come with a certificate giving their "sewn on" date, and telling you what material was used to make them. SO cute! Sadly, I have no little girl to collect the whole set for, but I do have 2 nieces who are going to be the proud owners of a "Spot Splatter Splash" doll!

*Humanity Vintage Wrap Bracelet from Buckle

Not only are the bracelets super stylish, but 25% goes to support non-profit organizations. Its the gift that keeps on giving!

*Cradle Rock children's lullaby albums

Lincoln has been rocking out to these lullabies for the past couple of weeks, and he loves them! The soothing lullabies are based off albums from famous artist, and the MJ one is AMAZING. You can go over to www.cradlerockstore.com to listen to previews, and I promise you won't be disappointed! These would make the perfect gift for any hip new or expecting parents you might know. And to help you out, Tree Top Records is graciously going to give one of you your own copy!

How to win:

1. Be a follower

2. Check out Cradle Rock's website and listen to some sample tracks. Leave a comment letting me know which is your favorite!

3. Bonus entry: Leave a comment telling me which artist's music you would love to see remixed into soothing lullabies.

Have a great weekend! Winner will be announced next Friday (the 19th).

Home Inspirations

2010-11-10T12:40:00.002-06:00

I am constantly gripping that certain rooms in my house aren't big enough.

The kitchen isn't big enough for an island or larger table.

The living room isn't big enough for a bookshelf.

The bathroom isn't big enough for ...you get the picture.

And even with the space I DO have, my house always looks cluttered and messy. If I attempted to live in a 125 square foot space, it would look like a nuclear bomb went off. Which is why I not only LOVE how Kristen Ellis has styled this tiny wonder, but am in awe of her ability to not hoard everything she's ever owned.

And seriously, the all white palette?!?! I. Die.

via Apartment Therapy

Music Monday XI

2010-11-08T11:23:00.000-06:00

	Edie Brickell & The New Bohemians - What I Am .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Obsessed.

2010-11-04T11:43:00.001-05:00

Whats Up.

2010-11-02T15:29:00.000-05:00

I feel like my plate is filled to the rim right now!! It was a busy weekend, and I have a feeling my life isn't going to slow down anytime soon. Whats been going on?

Halloween. Lincoln was Batman, and he was so frickin adorable! I will post pictures asap, but apparently I need to do something about my child's hair, because more than one person called him Batgirl. Not cool.

Not my kid...my kid refused to wear the mask. And he has an afro.

Our 8 year anniversary. This is our anniversary of dating, not marriage. I'm not near old enough for that!

Richard's birthday. Yes, I am officially married to a 30 year old!! He for some odd reason wanted Denny's for his birthday dinner, so we had that Friday night, and then had a small get together Saturday night. It was a blast, and now I have a fridge full of leftover booze....which sucks, because of what is now happening...

for some crazy reason, it's only the cupcake pictures that refuse to turn the correct way...weird.

An extended break from the booze. Richard and I have come to terms that we are getting older, and slammin shots on the daily is probably less than appropriate. So we are taking a break, and trying to make it till New Years with not a sip of alcohol. Wish me luck...

Working out. I am now the proud owner of a stationary bike. Why a bike? Because it was cheaper than a treadmill. I rode for the first time this morning, and while it was not fun, I'm looking forward to seeing some results in the ass region.

If I don't end up looking like this, Im asking for a refund.

Job hunt. I seriously send out a minimum of 5 resumes A DAY. Apparently I'm unhireable. Maybe it's because I spend 50% of my time on the clock blogging....

So that's whats up. Whats new with you?

Weekend Review

2010-10-25T14:51:00.000-05:00

Happy (or notsohappy) Monday!

I was dreading coming back to work this morning, especially after having such a great weekend.

Friday got the weekend started right with a date night with my honey. We began the evening with dinner at Tokyo Japan, and it was awesome.

edamame/egg roll/Japenese poatato cake/Hibachi Chicken=AMAZING

Then we finished the evening by Christmas shopping. Seriously, party animals.

Sunday we carved pumpkins, and it brought back some serious childhood memories!

My favorite part is roasting the seeds. So good!

To please the kid, I carved Iron Man and Richard did Wolverine. It was so hard, but he loved them. And thats all that matters!

Hope you guys had a great weekend! I'm so ready for this next weekend.

Friday: Richard turns the BIG 3-0!!

Saturday: Our 8 year anniversary!

Sunday: HALLOWEEN!!!

Fist Pump Friday

2010-10-15T12:33:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday folks!!

I have had a fantastic week, and here are some of the things keeping me in a happy place!

seriously tried to get this picture to rotate for like an hour. It wasn't having it.

Cupcakes at work. (Don't you just wish you were my co-worker?!) Seriously, cupcakes can make the worst job SO much better!

It has been the perfect fall weather here this week, and I can't wait for it to get colder so I can rock some cozy sweaters! I'm loving this one from ModCloth.

e-mealz is my new best friend. Its a super inexpensive meal planning service, that for just $5 a month makes me weekly meal plans with grocery list included. Not only is it a huge time saver, but its budget friendly, since they strive to keep every weeks grocery budget around $75. So do yourself a favor and click the link, its amazing.

I'm in love♥

And lastly, what I know your waiting for....

the winner of the $45 gift certificate to CSN Stores is...

Rachel from The Dalai Mama!!

Congrats girl, and thanks to everyone for entering!

Have an awesome weekend, see ya on the flip side!

Music Monday X

2010-10-11T16:19:00.000-05:00

	Adele - Right As Rain .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Fist Pump Friday-Fall Festival Edition

2010-10-08T12:58:00.001-05:00

This week, this first week of October, is kinda a big deal here in Evansville, IN. Who am I kidding, its a HUGE deal. Its the annual West Side Nut Club Fall Festival, and if you live in a 100 mile radius of here, your crazy not to come. People show up from all over to partake in the delicious, fatty, fried foods. Seriously, it's a heart attack waiting to happen, but SO worth it.

All the fried and overly sugared goods you could want!! And then plenty of rides to make you puke it right back up:)

Can't miss the talent show full of little baby hookers!

And the piece de resisitance this year:

Deep fried turkey testicles. I have yet to try them, but I hear they taste like chicken:)

Check out this link for more info on turkey balls, and have a great weekend!!

Giveaway time!!!CLOSED

2010-10-07T09:41:00.002-05:00

Every year I say I am going to get all my Christmas shopping done early. Not only to save myself the headache of fighting the crowds at the last minute, but also so I can scour the internets for awesome deals! Usually it doesn't happen, and there I am 3 days before Christmas standing in line for 45 minutes to by a gift that no one wants, and spending twice as much on it. But this year I am gonna make it happen. The goal is to be DONE with all the shopping by Thanksgiving. And the thing that is going to help me is doing one stop shopping on awesome sites like CSN Stores! CSN Stores has over 200 online stores where you can find everything from stylish handbags, to great cookware, or a fabulous end table to complement your anyones décor! I think that I will be able to find something for everyone on my list, without having to hit up a dozen stores, or a million websites!

I wanted to help one of you get a head start on your xmas shopping to(or just to get yourself something), so one lucky winner will get a $45 gift certificate to use at any of the awesome CSN Stores!

How to enter:
1. Be a follower.

2. Go check out CSN Stores, and leave a comment letting me know you want in on the action!

And thats it! I will pick a winner next Friday, October 15th!

Good Luck!!

Chickity China the Chinese Chicken

2010-09-29T09:27:00.004-05:00

I think that it is a common stereotype that most college kids eat their fair amount of Ramen noodles. I know I did. Scratch that, still do. I LOVE Ramen noodles!! Not only are they the cheapest meal ever, but I find them delicious. Only the chicken flavor though, beef, shrimp, oriental...those just weird me out.

This recipe is the perfect way to dress up your Ramen noodles so that you can continue loving them way past the dorm room years.

Chicken Lo Mein

Ingredients

1 tablespoon canola oil

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 package chicken ramen noodles, with seasoning packet

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 small onion, sliced

1 carrot, chopped

Directions

In a large skillet, heat the oil, soy sauce, and half the seasoning packet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook, turning occasionally, until beginning to brown, 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the pepper, onion, and carrot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to the package directions; drain. Toss with the chicken and vegetables.

Seriously delicious. You could serve this to people and they would have no idea you spent next to nothing, which is the kind of recipe I love.

Happy hump day!

Recipe from Real Simple

Music Monday IX + Playgrounds are disgusting

2010-09-27T14:28:00.000-05:00

So.....Monday again? Even though it comes every week, I'm still so bummed about it!
Hope everyone had a great weekend, and had as gorgeous of weather as we did here in Southern Indiana. Sunday was really nice, so we decided to take Lincoln to a park to play. There's a youth baseball complex not far from our house, and we knew they had a small playground, so we decided to check it out. Lincoln is super into sports right now, so we knew he would be thrilled.
When we got to the park there was no one there, which I saw as a good thing.
Lincoln is a social butterfly, and if other kids were there he would have never left. I took him to the library last week and he made friends with a little girl at the puzzle table. I spent the next 30 minutes trying to convince him to leave without having to drag him kicking and screaming from the children's room!
Anywho, as Richard and Lincoln are preparing to make their first trip down the slide, I happen to look down, and what do a see??? A freaking used condom!!!! AT THE PLAYGROUND!!! WTF?? What nasty ass couple decide it was a good idea to get frisky and then leave their condom where children play?? Uncool. Needless to say, we will not be returning to this particular playground.

How could I ever let something as gross as that be near my sweet, sweet flower picking little angel???

	Another Bad Creation - Playground .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

"I'm like Tinkerbell. I need applause to live!"

2010-09-21T10:56:00.000-05:00

Soooooo.... Who's capital P pumped that Glee starts tonight??? I know I am! And if I had any talent for baking, I'd host a Glee premier party and serve these adorable character cookies:

Seriously. Cutest thing ever! My favorites are definitely Emma and Puck:

If you've got the baking gene, you should head over to Diamonds for Desert for the tutorial. And then invite me over to watch Glee with you and eat some cookies. K? Thanks.

Music Monday VIII

2010-09-20T15:10:00.000-05:00

	Travie McCoy - We'll Be Alright .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Fist Pump Friday

2010-09-17T14:58:00.000-05:00

This might have been the longest week of my life...but woot woot!! Its FRIDAY!!!! And just in the nick of time, I was about to lose my shit if this week didn't end soon. And now I get to relax and enjoy the weekend, and then HOORAY! Next week is premier week!! All my favs are back to occupy the hours in between working!
So here it is, Fist Pump Friday, the TV edition.

Watching some of the returning shows will be like catching up with old friends, and oh how I've missed them!

*First and foremost, GLEE is back!!! I can't wait to see these kids rock some more of my favorite jams, and I'm pretty stoked to see Brittney's cameo as well.

*Speaking of awesome Glee cameos, I'm super pumped for the new season of How I Met Your Mother! Neal Patrick Harris rocks my socks off.

* If you haven't watched Rules of Engagement before, you need to start. It is seriously one of the funniest shows on!! I ♥ it.

* The funniest show of all has got to be Modern Family. Hands down. I rarely get done watching without a little tinkle in the pants.

*Nothing else could keep me on my Modern Family high quite the way Cougar Town does. Seriously, does anyone else agree that Penny Can is an amazing came???

I definitely do NOT want to make the new kids feel like ugly step children, so I'm going to give several of the newbies the chance to make me giggle.

*This looks hilarious! Hope it doesn't let me down...

*I love watching shows about trashy people, it's like seeing a monkey in it's natural habitat.

*Will Arnett's creepy voice, Felicity and lots of money?? Sounds like a winner.

*Sexy spies?? Count me in.

What shows are your must watches for the new season??

2010-09-16T15:57:00.000-05:00

So, I have this job, and I'm not going to be all boo hoo, my job sucks, cause how many people are like OMG!! my job rocks!?!? But.....my job sucks. There are numerous reasons for it's epic suckage, but mostly I would attribute it to the high standard my boss expects his employees to live up to. I mean the guys I work with make the Jersey Shore kids look like rocket scientist! Seriously, I will be discussing with them something that is a daily part of their job, and this is what I get in return:

And then I have to be all "Why are you so dumb??"

And they'll be all "Stop your complaining, you get to sit at your desk all day while we do real work." And then I have to hurt their feelings by explaining to them thats its because I went to college and it doesn't hurt that I bathe regularly. Besides, they needn't be too jealous, my view is pretty bad.

I don't know if you can tell from the overall tone of this post, but I need a new job BAD!!
At least it almost Friday....

Music Monday VII

2010-09-13T11:26:00.000-05:00

	Jem - Finally Woken .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Fist Pump Friday

2010-09-10T14:13:00.000-05:00

So although I look like a total slacker on here, I'm kickin ass in the real world. My work is insanely busy, and its really cutting into my internet time!

But wanted to pop in with a quick fist pump Friday, so here goes:

*Cereal Marshmallows.com

I think I stumbled onto a tiny piece of heaven here. I'll take the 12 pound bag pleaseandthankyou!

my stash...

Have a great weekend my pretties, I hope to be back in full effect next week!

90210

2010-09-02T09:26:00.003-05:00

Today is a special day. I don't know if you noticed, but todays date is 9-02-10, as in West Beverly High, yo!!

In honor of this holy day, I have decided to take a look back at how Brandon, Brenda, Kelly, Steve, Dylan, David and Donna forever changed my life.

It taught me about dirty bitches:

It taught me that crystal meth is bad news

a little confused still on how you "somehow" start doing speed. I don't think you accidentally fall into a pile of it...but I could be wrong.

Guns are a big deal. But an even bigger deal? Seeing Dylan in the shower. bow chicka bow wow!

It taught me that real friends don't date, kiss, or sleep with your boyfriend

Donna should have stuck with David.

Donna Martin graduates!! If your a rich virgin, the system can't hold you back!!

Prom really is the best time to lose the big "V". Especially if your lucky enough to do it with someone you really love. Your so lucky Brenda!!

David and Donna got married!! I can remember where I was when I watched this final episode. Me and my friend Jacie would get together every week to watch 90210. And this night we went all out. We got together and had a full on marathon, and then watched the finale sobbing and hugging, already missing our dearest friends. How could we continue life without Dylan and Kelly? Who would we laugh at with Steve gone??? It was a rough, rough night.

What were your favorite moments from the most famous zip code???

Fist Pump Friday

2010-08-27T10:00:00.003-05:00

*I'm a freakin winner, yo!!! Little miss Queso has bestowed upon me a $70 gift card to CSN stores!!

_________________________________________

*Mario Kart symbols painted on bike lane in Portland:

best. vandalism. EVER!
______________________________________________________

*Big Boy Original Gaffiti Stencil Style Painting from The Factory 101

__________________________________________________________________________________

*White lucite bracelet with real insects from Kolos Studio

__________________________________________________________________________________

*Carlashes

Seriously, don't you want to be this happy?

Crystal eyeliner sold separately, of course.

__________________________________________________________________________________

******If you want to make your own Fist Pump Friday list of awesomeness, grab the button in my sidebar, and link up to your post:

I have an addictive personality...

2010-08-26T10:28:00.000-05:00

I get hooked on things easily. It usually happens with food or cocktails, like I'll decide that vodka and guava juice is the most amazing thing that has ever touched my lips, and then drink nothing but that for the next 3 months. Most recently I got hooked on Caprese salads.

Like I eat no less than one a day, and have yet to get sick of it. Luckily for me, no one else at my house shares my affinity for this delicious treat, so I get to have big balls (thats what she said) of fresh mozzarella all to myself. Last night I was trying to decide what to fix for dinner, when really all I wanted was to have a huge plate of tomatoes and mozzarella, and then suddenly Giada came to my rescue. Her recipe for Fusilli alla Caprese was the answer to feeding my addiction and my family at the same time!!

Fusilli alla Caprese
Recipe courtesy Giada De Laurentiis

Ingredients:

1 pound fusilli pasta (I used whole wheat rotini)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups cherry tomatoes, quartered (about 1 1/2 pints)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, torn
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, diced (about 1 1/4 cups)
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain pasta into a large bowl and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
In a medium skillet heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and saute until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, salt, and pepper. As the tomatoes cook and soften, smash them with a fork. Continue to cook until the tomatoes make a chunky style sauce, about 4 minutes. Transfer the tomato sauce to the bowl with the pasta. Toss to combine. Add the basil leaves and mozzarella. Stir to combine. Add the reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, until the pasta is moist. Serve. Serves 4-6.

Music Monday VI

2010-08-23T09:52:00.001-05:00

	Placebo - Running Up That Hill .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Fist Pump Friday

2010-08-20T08:45:00.000-05:00

*Babel gum kids doing Lady Gaga

The Quintessential Steampunk Watch Movement Ring from London Particulars Etsy shop

*Robert Cattinson. BAHAHAHA!

*Neil Patrick Harris is going to be a dad...to twins!!

Mad Hatter Alice in Wonderland shirt from No Wonder's Etsy shop

If you want to make your own Fist Pump Friday list of awesomeness, grab the button in my sidebar, and link up to your post:

The time has come for one and all...To play ball!

2010-08-17T11:16:00.001-05:00

Happy short week to me!! I got to stay home with my little man yesterday, and it was great! Sometimes I feel that between work and everything else, I barely get to spend anytime with him. So we took the day to have fun, and luckily it was nice out so he got to play outside.

He's getting so big!

It was nice to have the day off to relax after the weekend, which included taking Lincoln to see his first baseball game!

While we have no major teams of any sport here, we are home to the Evansville Otters baseball team. Honestly, I'm not a big sports fan, especially baseball (boring), but there is one cool thing about the Otters (and its definitely not that their the freakin Otters. Who picks an otter as their team mascot?? seriously.)

Their home field is Evansville's own Bosse Field, which besides being the third oldest professional ballpark in the country after Fenway and Wrigley, was used as the Racine Bells home stadium in "A League of Their Own".

Cool stuff, a little piece of movie history in southern Indiana...

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Fist Pump Friday's

2010-08-13T09:05:00.000-05:00

Things that brought me joy this week...

*Lauren winning So You Think You Can Dance last night. That girl rocks!

*Sandra Bullock droppin it like it's hot with Betty White at the Teen Choice Awards. For all the craziness in her life, she still has the best attitude!!

*The overturning of Proposition 8. It's a start!!

*Grandma Tracy breaking it DOWN!! Seriously, go watch this video!!

*Mel Gibson quotes with photographic context:

*Sara Bareilles doing "Single Ladies"

*This guy. Who, hilariously, was pulled over with a live cat marinating in oil and seasonings in his trunk. WTF??? At least he was smart enough to know that cat don't taste good unless you season it real good with red pepper and chili powder.

But I am happy to report that the cat has since been adopted my non-crazy people.

Things that sucked this week??
The girl that quit her job via dry erase board messages being a big fat FAKE!! Get a life.

I'm thinking about making Fist Pump Fridays a weekly thing, so maybe I'll add a linky next week, and you can all join in the fun!

Dial 1-900-MIXALOT

2010-08-12T11:19:00.002-05:00

Richard and I started dating when I was 18, and like most 18 year olds, I fell hard. And what do you do when you truly love someone?? You make them a mix tape, duh.

And before you judge my song choices, remember that I was fresh out of high school, the year was 2003, and Ja Rule was popular.

Now, with that said, sit back and enjoy the smooth sounds of the

"I Love You, 2003" mix.

Saddest part is, I found this with MY cd collection, which means that Richard apparently wasn't too fond of the songs I choose to convey my love for him with. His loss, because I have been rockin out to this for the past two days, lovin Ja like he never left.

I asked the waiter...

2010-08-10T14:07:00.000-05:00

We were sans child this weekend, as he was off camping with Richards parents, so we took the opportunity to have a little date night. We joined our friends Wade and Sarah for some patio dining at a local restaurant, and prepared ourselves to have delicious drinks and good food. And while the food was good and the drinks were delicious, the waiter was a big f'ing failure!

He came to take our orders, and started by asking Wade what he would like.

Wade: "I'll take the blah blah blah margarita, frozen please."
Shitty waiter: "Ummm.....I don't think we can do it frozen."
Wade: "Oh. Really??"
Shitty waiter: "Yeah. I'm pretty sure someone asked last week and the machine was broken."

Someone asked LAST WEEK?? and you haven't gotten to the bottom of this yet?? But whatever, he was clearly new, so we'll let this slide... Next, Richard is up.

Richard: "Do you have any beer specials tonight?"
S.W.: "Aww, shit man. I don't know. I would have to go check and see."

(we wait for him to offer to go check. he doesn't.)

We order anyways, and when he leaves we immediately crack up at his AMAZING waiter skills. But we weren't laughing for long, because 20 minutes later we had still not gotten our drinks! Dude finally shows back up, empty handed. He informs us that he doesn't have a liquor license, and therefor can't bring us our drinks, so we will have to wait on the manager to deliver them. The manager finally does deliver them, and we casually mention that we intend to drink quite a bit, in hopes that he will take the hint and get us another server. He doesn't. So all night we have to prematurely order our drinks to ensure that we wont have to be without a cocktail for 20+ minutes.
It was RIDICULOUS!

And I totally get that you are not going to know every detail about a new job right away, but seriously, dude needs to up the ante on his customer service skills! I believe when someone ask you something you don't know, the appropriate response is "Let me go find out for you," not "Aww shit man, I don't know."

But I could be wrong.

Images via Google Images

Music Monday V

2010-08-09T12:47:00.000-05:00

	A.A. Bondy - Killed Myself When I Was Young .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

comfort

2010-08-03T14:03:00.000-05:00

Last night marked Lincoln's first night sans pacifier.

And it was rough.

He's gone 2 weeks now with out having it all day, only using it to sleep at night, so we figured he was clearly ready to part ways with his old pal.

He wasn't.

I put him to bed and assured him he was a big boy that could go to sleep without his binkie, but he didn't believe me. So I showed him the basket where the plethora of pacifiers were normally kept, and upon a deep and thorough inspection, he concurred that it was indeed empty. Since I was feeling a little guilty for taking his beloved away, I stayed I his room with him and read him a couple of stories. All through 3 books, he cried and screamed. Eventually, I decided my being there wasn't helping, and I left him alone, to cry. For almost an hour, he sobbed, and it was so heartbreaking! Richard and I lay in bed listening, and there was nothing I could do to hold back a few tears of my own. NOTHING breaks my heart like hearing my child's cries of sadness.

And while he woke up this morning with no mention of the nights events, I think it will take me a lot longer to forgot having to be the one to break his little heart.

And while he is just a child who in a few days will forever forgot that the pacifier was ever even a vital part of his life, I can relate to his tear filled night.

Haven't we all spent nights with uncontrollable tears, begging for something thats out of our control??

It sucks.

photo via

Music Monday IV

2010-08-02T10:43:00.002-05:00

Gary Jules: Mad World

	Gary Jules - mad world .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Joshua Bronaugh

2010-07-30T09:45:00.000-05:00

I am dying over the awesome technique and lovely brush strokes in these:

Nimbus

Black Monk (Swamp Thing)

A Prayer for St Valentine

Stag

A Prayer for St Valentine

Lithuanian Love Song

Originally from Bavaria, Joshua has lived and traveled all over the world. He studied art in Rome and Florence and taught art in the Ukraine. His work is influenced by phenomenology, the study of what and how we perceive and interpret the world.

Joshua’s is represented by LeQuire Gallery in Nashville, Tennessee.

via Joshua Bronaugh

P.S. thanks for all your support and kind words on my previous (depressing) post. You guys are the best:)

go daddy go...

2010-07-28T15:16:00.000-05:00

Lincoln's 2nd birthday party was Saturday, and it turned out great! I was too busy running around like a crack head to actually pick up the camera, so I'll post some pictures once I get them from my mother.

On a totally unrelated note, I have to get off my chest something that happened recently...

Last weekend Richard, Lincoln and I were out running some errands. There is new outlet mall in town, so we decided to stop in and peruse the goods. We enter the store and are immediately blown away by the ~~large amount of crap~~ aisle and aisles of inexpensive wares. I glance to the right, where I see a display of supposedly hand painted guitars featuring things like tigers, skulls and butterflys. Also to the right I see a family: A man, woman and daughter. Upon seeing them I gently persuade Richard to head to the left, with comments like "Ooohh! Is that a velvet Elvis poster??" Once we had safely passed the section of knock off purses, I leaned over and whispered to Richard "My dads here. We have to get out of this store." As soon as I said it, I felt like such a fucking weirdo. Like who see's their dad, and isn't all, "Hey dad! Whats new??" Only my greeting to my dad would have gone more like "Hey dad! I see your with your other family, the one you like. Thats nice. Hey there little sister. Remember me?? No?? Of course you don't, because our dad's a dick."

Oh, you want some backstory? I thought you'd never ask!

My older brother and I are the products of the failed marriage between my mother and father. I was born in San Francisico, where we lived like a little happy familty. Until my parents split up, we moved back to Kentucky where my mom is from, and my dad went to jail. Awesome. A few years later, daddy was sprung, and also moved back to the midwest to be close to his kids. Nice try, but that only lasted a few years, and then the it just stopped. No more play dates with dad at the park. No phone calls. No birthday cards. No nothing. As a child I was confused, like who doesn't want to hang out with me?? I'm freakin awesome!

So every Christmas I would send him a card with a picture of me and my brother. Never. got. one. back.

Fast forward to my junior year of highschool. I come home from school to find my dad, my mom and my brother in the living room. WTF??? I was confused, I had finally gotten over the rejection, but there was still a part of me that yearned to have my dad be a part of my life. So we slowly built up a relationship, me and my brother frequently hanging out with him, much to the dismay of his new wife. We met his daughter. It was as happy as the situation could be. And then it was over. just. like. that. I didn't see or talk to him for the next 5 years, until he randomly showed up to my college graduation (thanks mom). Even then, we didn't talk, I just happen to glance up and see him taking my picture...some sort of misguided proud papa moment?

So here we are. Years later, and I have to duck out of stores to avoid the incredibly awkward situation that would be a convo with the pops. And even though this post might make you think otherwise, I am fully over my "daddy left me" issues. I have a kick ass mom who filled the role better than any man ever could. My only thing is that I really wish he would move! How the hell am I gonna handle the situation if one day Lincoln and I run into him?? How would I even introduce him??

AWKWARD.

Music Monday III

2010-07-26T09:05:00.000-05:00

No music today. But this movie looks hilarious, and I cannot WAIT for this to come out!

"You need to check yourself. Before you wreck yourself."

I mean this situation is gonna be indescribable, you can't even describe the situation that you're about to get into the situation.

2010-07-22T15:32:00.001-05:00

Vintage family photo of Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino. I love guys in turtlenecks. It just screams guido!

G.T.L. baby. Gym, Tanning, Laundry.

via

The day my life forever changed...

2010-07-19T18:41:00.001-05:00

Two years ago today Lincoln Andrew came into this world. He didn't come on his own free will, instead being forced out by doctors to try and keep us both healthy. He was tiny, with just a little bit of jet black hair. I had no idea in that moment how great being a mom would be. I didn't even think I was ready, but somehow figured out how to change his diapers, burp him and make him smile when he was fussy.

To Lincoln, you are the light of my life, and I can't imagine a day without you in it. You never fail to make me smile when I don't think I can, and know how to melt my heart with a single look. I love you more than I thought was possible, and I am so excited to see the boy you will become. <3

Just a little funny for your Friday...

2010-07-16T08:55:00.001-05:00

Have a great weekend...hope you look hot and not like a fucking weirdo!!

Charlotte Mann

2010-07-15T15:07:00.000-05:00

Incredible.

BIOGRAPHY

Charlotte Mann is an artist known for her large life-sized drawings. She was born in London where she currently lives and works. She graduated from Central St Martin's Fashion Design Women's wear BA in 2000, and worked in the various fields of fashion design, styling, and illustration, before focusing on her artwork.
She worked for Russell Sage, designing and producing show pieces (including a dress made from real bank notes, now archived in the V&A, and pieces made with antique animal skins, which were featured in an exhibition at the Metropollitan Museum of Art in New York). She also designed for, amongst others: Laura Ashley, Kickers and Okini, and she was the costume designer and stylist for Eddie Izzard's Sexie tour.
The shift to the art work she is currently involved in came in september 2006 when she created the 30 meter long densely detailed hand drawn back drop for Peter Jensen's Spring/Summer 2007 show. since then she has created pieces for a number of different clients including India Knight, The School Of Life and B-Store.
Charlotte had been teaching for the University Of The Arts since 2001, she is an Associate Lecturer at St Martin's, Chelsea School of Art and Camberwell College of Art, and curates the Camberwell Foundation Film program, at the Vue Cinema Leicester Square, attracting guests such as Mike Leigh, Lynne Ramsay and Bruno Dumont. She also teaches at The Prince's Drawing School.

Crap-load-of-photos Wednesday

2010-07-07T16:28:00.001-05:00

I'm a busy little bee lately, but wanted to stop in and share some pictures from our 4th of July weekend. We went to Historic New Harmony, where they are all about celebrating our independence!

Hope you all had a great 4th!!

Even though I'm swamped, I'm loving this short work week, and...I believe I have found my new assistant!! Yay! I'll fill you in more on the flip side.

Foodie Friday

2010-07-02T13:05:00.000-05:00

Its freakin Friday folks!! And not just any Friday, but the start to a 3-day weekend Friday!!! 3.5 more hours of work and then the relaxing begins! Hope you all have either amazing plans for the holiday weekend, or plans to do nothing but relax and chill by the pool with beverage in hand. But either way, you should add this recipe to the meals you will eat this weekend, cause I cooked it last night, and it was GOOD!!

Italian Turkey Stromboli's

adapted from recipe found here.

Ingredients:

1.5 pounds of Italian ground lean turkey
1 white onion
1/2 green pepper
6 oz. can tomato paste
8 oz. can tomato sauce
1/4 c. water
Small can sliced mushrooms
1 tbsp basil
1 tbsp thyme
1 tbsp oregano
1 tbsp garlic salt
6 deli style sesame buns
Mozzarella cheese, shreeded

1. Saute turkey, onion and green pepper. Drain. Add all other ingredients to meat mixture and simmer approximately 10 minutes.
2. Layout buns on foil lined baking sheet. Top bottoms with meat mixture, then with mozzarella cheese.

3. Bake at 400 degrees until cheese melts.

hello heaven...its good to be here!

Hope everyone has an awesome weekend!! I'm outta here till Tuesday!

xoxo

Stoic Tia

Baby Room Wants

My life in photos...

Cyber Monday!

Coming May 2012

Life keeps getting in the way...

Fresh to Death

schools in!

the force.

Ratatouille sounds like "rat" and "patootie." Rat-patootie, which does not sound delicious.

Be the change

My life, according to my iPhone

Memorial Day weekend...

Green's not really my color...

Music Monday

the joys of parenting

TruKid Skincare Giveaway!**CLOSED**

such a hipster....

Music Monday

Can't Stop The Rain

Music Monday

Comfort Food

Music Monday

Working Woman

Happy birthday to me...!

Happy Valentines Day!!

Will you still love me if I shower you with gifts?

It's been awhile...

Fist Pump Friday

Well that was fast...

This is ridiculous...

24 Simple Truths

Music Monday XV

Fist Pump Friday Christmas List Edition

It's getting close.

My bowlegged baby...

Music Monday XIV

Just waiting to stuff my face....

Music Monday XIII

Fist Pump Friday Christmas List Edition

Tasty Tuesdays: Chicken Cordon Bleu

Music Monday XII

Fist Pump Friday Christmas List Edition+Giveaway

Home Inspirations

Music Monday XI

Obsessed.

Whats Up.

Weekend Review

Fist Pump Friday

Music Monday X

Fist Pump Friday-Fall Festival Edition

Giveaway time!!!**CLOSED**

Chickity China the Chinese Chicken

Music Monday IX + Playgrounds are disgusting

"I'm like Tinkerbell. I need applause to live!"

Music Monday VIII

Fist Pump Friday

Music Monday VII

Fist Pump Friday

90210

Fist Pump Friday

*I'm a freakin winner, yo!!! Little miss Queso has bestowed upon me a $70 gift card to CSN stores!!_________________________________________

*Mario Kart symbols painted on bike lane in Portland:

*Big Boy Original Gaffiti Stencil Style Painting from The Factory 101

*White lucite bracelet with real insects from Kolos Studio

I have an addictive personality...

Fusilli alla Caprese

Ingredients:

Directions

Music Monday VI

Fist Pump Friday

The Quintessential Steampunk Watch Movement Ring from London Particulars Etsy shop

Mad Hatter Alice in Wonderland shirt from No Wonder's Etsy shop

The time has come for one and all...To play ball!

Fist Pump Friday's

Dial 1-900-MIXALOT

I asked the waiter...

Music Monday V

comfort

Music Monday IV

TruKid Skincare Giveaway!CLOSED

Giveaway time!!!CLOSED

*I'm a freakin winner, yo!!! Little miss Queso has bestowed upon me a $70 gift card to CSN stores!!

_________________________________________