Living in the Moment 1st

Movin' on

2009-08-03T16:03:00.003-05:00

I am moving everything over to a new url and I hope you will follow me there. Thank you to the lovely Carolynn at Two Brunettes for helping me with my new look. I absolutely love it.

And you will see a few more photos from the big reunion weekend. See you over here!

Weekend Update

2009-08-02T10:11:00.002-05:00

These girls are amazing!

2009-07-31T10:22:00.004-05:00

Not much going on this morning but by noon today my dance card is full.

Lunch with friends this afternoon then the big reunion begins after that. The question my friends, why is my back a mess today? I could barely move this morning. Why? I don't know. I'm old. I bent down this morning to pull on my dress and OUCH!!

So my plan is to self-medicate and pretend it doesn't hurt through this evenings festivities.

Have a great weekend! I may post tomorrow or I may not.

Things on my mind...

2009-07-30T10:19:00.009-05:00

The Kiddos at the Blank Park Zoo, 2008

One of our favorite places to visit.

Congrats to my friend, Mikey and his new job.

Congrats to my friend, Jeremy for buying his first house.

Big time reunion this weekend. Not sure what craziness that will bring.

Need to make time for a spend over with my niece or at least movetime.

Need to clean my disaster of a house. Not looking forward to it after cleaning sorority house on Wednesday night. (Becoming mean old grouchy alumn that I remember so well from my college days.)

Loving the weather right now in Iowa. It's absolutely perfect. Haven't run my air conditioner in a while. My checkbook thanks you Mother Nature.

Sad that summer is coming to a close. Students will be back on campus in about two weeks. Everything changes when students are back.

Missing the kiddos. Really need to plan something fun to do with them before summer is over. Maybe a day at the zoo followed by McDonald's.

View From my Window...

2009-07-30T08:29:00.003-05:00

Ok I don't know whose car this is but I gotta say - I LOVE IT!

Who wouldn't love a Barbie car as an adult?

Quote for the Day

2009-07-29T08:48:00.001-05:00

I found this a while ago on Absolutely Beautiful Things. It's one of my favorite blogs.

Color Me Happy...

2009-07-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

My good friend, Beth has a lovely house. She has done a ton of work on the inside so now to turn the focus to the outside. I already told you that the backyard needs a little help. And of course we aren't millionaires so everything must come in phases. Well one phase is to update the trim on her house.

Red brick is a hard one. So I email my blogger friend, Maria over at Colour Me Happy and here's what she thinks...

"I find one of the best colours that works with red brick is a greeny gray--blue works with red but seems to look less organic and natural than a greeny gray. HC-98 or if you wanted it to read less green, you could go for HC-108. Maybe just a yellowy beige would work as well, HC-45 Shaker Beige? Hope this helps, Maria"

Maria has a great post about picking out exterior colors so check it out if you need some good ideas. And if you read that post, then you should probably read this one too.

Conversations...

2009-07-27T13:34:00.006-05:00

Isabelle: Can I have a spend over tonight?

K: Umm tonight? I have work tomorrow...Did your mom say it was ok? Is your mom going to pick you up at 7am tomorrow?

Isabelle: Ummm...I don't know....Ummm...

K: Let me talk to your mom.

Life is what happens....

2009-07-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

Ali, Tucker and Lincoln

One of my favorite quotes is, "Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans. - John Lennon." Well, there are some pretty amazing people in my life. If you have been reading my blog for a while you have a little glimpse of that already. Well...my good friend, Ali doesn't even realize how amazing she is and I thought I would let you all know what I mean.

Ali was thrown for a loop when her youngest boy was born. Everything with Ali's pregnancy was normal and quite uneventful. But the day he was born wasn't what anyone expected. It wasn't the easy peasy birth like his older brother, Lincoln. Things were wouldn't be same from this moment on...The first thing doctor's had to deal with - Tucker was born with a cleft pallet. Later, doctor's noticed that it looked like Tucker might even have Down's Syndrome. Which later was confirmed to be true.

I can only imagine the roller coaster of emotions you would go through at this point in your life...But let me tell you - Alison is one of the strongest woman I know. She became extremely knowledgeable on all that is Tucker's life. In fact, everyone around her did.

She never complains, she never feels sorry for herself or Tucker for that matter. Even through life's ups and downs she keeps trucking along.

Tucker is quite the little boy. He's happy and growing like a weed just like his older brother. And my friend Ali is amazing woman.

Blast from the Past (Part 3)

2009-07-25T06:43:00.000-05:00

My graduation party day.

May 1990.

Don't you love the red lipstick. And god, I needed a perm BAD!

Me chatting away before a football game.

Must have been in August or September since I am wearing shorts. (1990)

The one thing that people remember me best for in college is athletic training.
I was damn good at it and I think I was the one who helped paved the way for the awesome program we have now at my al mater. It's one thing I am very proud about.

So there you have it. Just a little look of me and my college life. I thoroughly enjoyed my college years and it's probably why I really strive to be sure my students have a good experience while they are here. My four years of college really defined me as a person. I learned so much about life... so much more than what I was taught in the classroom. I was so lucky to have so many people who supported me along the way. And now it's me giving back to my students...

BFFs

2009-07-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

I have talked about my friend, Trace a couple of times. She's the best. We have been friends since she be-bopped into my room freshman year of college. Trace lived across the hall from me and although I wasn't sure about her when I first met her, we became fast friends and almost inseparable all four years. I have many, many photos of us throughout the years in almost the same pose. We grew up together and went through so many things together. It's hard to believe how long ago those photos are...And now and I am watching her kids grow up. And I get to be a special part of their lives.

My friends Con and Trace are much more like family than friends to me. And I wouldn't be the person I am today without them. (sheesh get out the Kleenex!)

Blast from the Past (Part 2)

2009-07-24T07:42:00.001-05:00

Junior year (also known as the best year ever!)

Sometimes at work, my students will want to see pictures of me in college. I have my old yearbooks on my shelf behind my desk, so I'll pull them down, wipe the dust off and start flipping through looking for my massive blond locks. And what cracks me up is the fact the EVERYONE had the same hair. Some of us did it better than others, but essentially it's the same. Big bangs, big perm and just all around BIG.

Mush, Me and Trace

Senior Year Formal

How do you like my sparkly green dress? What you don't see is the sparkly silver hose and the sparkly green shoes that matched my dress. Good times.

Blast from the past...

2009-07-23T08:26:00.004-05:00

Freshman year roommate, Shelley and me

Me and one of my very best friends, Jenks

(sophomore year)

In two weeks, I will be getting together with college friends. Some of these people, I have not seen in 20 years. I'm not sure why I haven't seen them in so long - I like these people, I consider them friends. And yet, I guarantee when I see them it will be like no time has passed. We will pick back up right where we left off.

Sooo I decided you should have a little peek of me and my friends. In college. Big hair and everything. So feel free to laugh as much as you want - I know I did when I pulled them out of the photo box. (I don't believe in scrap books. It's just not my thing. All my photos are in boxes and I like it that way. I don't mind if you do it but just know I will not come to your parties.)

So here you go...I think I will start with freshman year. So young and so excited about everything....

The day after...

2009-07-22T09:11:00.017-05:00

What can I say...too much beer was had...I am tired....I haven't even showered yet....and I need a long nap. Thank god RAGBRAI only happens once a year and it won't be back in my town for a very long time.

Tent city in the park right next to campus. This was pretty early in the day.

Beer tents ready for the crowds....

Crowds are starting to come to town...

Ran into to some old friends... His name is Bibs.

The band is going strong...

Me hanging out on the square....

Crowds of last night.

Alison and her cousin, Mike

My good friend, Beth and her husband.

Jeremy and his high school friends.

You were guaranteed that you would see everyone you knew last night at some point.

Buses and bikers getting ready to leave this morning...

Me coming to work in the same clothes I wore last night,

wrist band and stamps still on my arm. It's going to be a long day.

RAGBRAI

2009-07-21T08:00:00.003-05:00

OK people, I have been talking about RAGBRAI for a little while now. This is not just a bike ride. It's an event, a HUGE event. Well the time has come...my little college town is an overnight host. So we are expecting 20,000-50,000 people to come through town. 10,000+ bikers will arrive today and leave sometime tomorrow the rest will come just for the good time.

Everyone who works on campus was asked to volunteer. Some how I was assigned to work the showers...that could be good - could be bad. I guess it depends on how you look at it.

I'll try to tweet all day to keep you informed.

Here's the Indianola twitter site too.

The List

2009-07-20T15:36:00.002-05:00

So, of course, the conversation of why I am not married came around to what do I want, what am I looking for, would I consider, blahblahblah....things that seem so easy to ask but not so easy to answer when you are someone of a certain age, who is single. Because it just comes down to...I don't know...I just haven't met the right person. With that said here's a little list.

I want to be with someone who:

thinks I am truly amazing.

thinks I am beautiful. cute and sexy works too.

loves that I am a dork and loves my quirky side.

reads books. He doesn't have to read as much as I do, but actually likes to pick up a book once and a while.

is sarcastic like me and has quick wit.

puts his hand on the small of my back to guide me out of a restaurant.

when he looks at me, he does that smile that you just know what he's thinking. You know the one...

smart would be good too.

likes to hold hands.

calls or texts me just to say hi how's your day going.

does those little things for me when I least expect it.

confident and easy going.

I guess what it really comes down to I want to be with someone I enjoy being with, have fun with and someone who appreciates all that I am. Someone who just gets me. (I am complicated at times. I admit it.) I just want to meet a great guy who thinks I am pretty great and wants to hang out with me for a very long time. That's the guy I would marry.

Conversations...

2009-07-20T08:48:00.005-05:00

Con:
After you left, Rupert went for a huge roll of super strong plastic and they made a slip n slide that went from the house to the bottom of the hill. I WANTED to try it... but that was going to lead to no good. So, maybe next time..... I'm afraid, had you still been here, we would have both been on the slide!

Kara:
You know I love the country/small town life. Where else can you find a tractor in your front yard? I think we would have broke a hip on that slip & slide... Not to say I wouldn't have tried it.

Other topics of discussion from yesterday:
1. How much money a 1A school should spent on a football field.
2. RAGBRAI
3. My choice of a recent fling.
4. The things I endured as an Athletic Trainer in college.
5. My choice in the route I drove to my friend Con's house.
6. And of course.... Why I am not married?

(Mind you all the topics focused on me were brought up by the men of the group.)

Weekend Haze

2009-07-19T20:05:00.011-05:00

So my good friend, Con called me earlier this week and say, "Hey let's go for a bike ride on Sunday." I was hesitant at first. Only because the inch of dust on my bike tells you how much I have actually ridden in the past several years. And the rubber bands in my in my bike pouch for the long hair that I no longer have is another indication.

But we rode anyway. The Great Western Trail is my favorite. It's a good one. Not to many hills and beautiful scenery. 18 miles isn't to shabby. And my legs don't even hurt.

We stopped along the way to have a cold beverage. And take a little break. Ok so that little break ended up being 3 hours and 2 or 3 beers.

My good friend Con taking a little water break.

By the time we were done, I was famished. And even though these burgers took at least 2 hours to cook, a second tank of gas for the grill and a bit of harassment it was totally worth it.

I heart cows. I don't know why. I'm a city girl at heart.

Further proof....you might live in the country. I'm just saying....

And the debate continues...

2009-07-18T11:47:00.003-05:00

I spent a lovely evening at my good friend Con's house. Enjoyed a very nice bottle of wine. Sadly not on the new patio because it's FREEZING here. July in Iowa is usually HOT but right now we are in the 60's. So we ate and drank at the island in the kitchen. Very hot topics were discussed. One being whether or not Connie lives in the country...so I leave it to you to decide.

I just want to point out the corn field directly across the street from her driveway. And the beautiful pond in the backyard (if you want to call it a backyard.)

Nothing much....

2009-07-17T08:44:00.005-05:00

I have nothing to tell you about today....no major plans for the weekend...baseball games are over so I won't be seeing these kids. Which is probably a good thing because they wanted to paint my dog blue to match their uniforms.

What the hell is this crazy girl wearing? I might have to take her to a movie or something but I'm not taking her if she looks like this! What a weirdo!

Rules...

2009-07-16T14:03:00.006-05:00

This is a reminder for my good friend Beth, my sister D and anyone else and their crazy drive-thru orders.

Rules for my Unborn Son

358. If you have to make more than one substitution, order something else.

Dinner & Dish

2009-07-16T09:15:00.009-05:00

Went out to dinner with the Dinner&Dish girls last night - always a good time with these gals. I gotta say the margaritas I had last night were not worth the $8/drink. But the company was good and the food was splendid.

It was the perfect night to sit outside with friends enjoying a beverage or two. I snapped this photo walking back to my car.

Before/After

2009-07-15T14:05:00.007-05:00

This gorgeous bathroom is my viola teacher's renovation project of last year. She and her husband live in a beautiful arts and crafts home and they have painstakingly worked on it for years. They didn't do the work themselves on the bathroom but Linda planned and picked all of the elements. She would be an amazing contractor. If you want to see more photos click here.

Beth's patio

2009-07-14T11:00:00.005-05:00

Beth's patio by mayk1 on Polyvore.com

After eating lunch at Beth's house the other day I have been craving a make-over. Beth has a beautiful house and a back patio begging for a make-over. And you know I would die for a little more space at my house. So I told her I would come up with some ideas for her outdoor space. This space is simple yet traditional. Beth is a busy mom who doesn't have time for a bunch of plants so I kept it easy for her. Cool rug to bring in a little drama and everything else would work when she is ready to put in the french doors, brick patio and deck.

View From my Window...

2009-07-14T10:02:00.003-05:00

One of my students had these photos on her facebook page. Our college town is known for hot air balloon races. She was able to take a ride with a ballooner and snap a few photos. The big race is in August and I'm sure I'll have some photos for you.

Patio Update

2009-07-13T08:52:00.003-05:00

Con's patio is done! And it beautiful. I think the color is amazing. And the shape is perfection. I can't wait to be sitting in a lounge chair, sipping a glass of chardonnay and trading stories while enjoying the view.

Weekend Update

2009-07-13T08:26:00.007-05:00

Let's see...What did I do this weekend? Baseball games in the rain. Got a new book to read. Cleaned the house...hmmmm...what else...Of course! I totally forgot about hanging out with my friends, Beth and Jeremy.

Every Friday afternoon in the summer is a half day of work for us. I usually meet my friend Con in West Des Moines for drinks or lunch on a patio somewhere but this week Con was off on vacation. So a new plan was needed.

My good friend, Beth and I found a patio and ate ginormous burgers for lunch, called Jeremy after paying our bill, and went to a movie and then opted for drinks on a patio before the rain started coming down. What better way to spend the day!

As for the movie...Hangover was absolutely laugh out loud funny. It's been a long time since I have even chuckled at a movie. This one is good. It's a must see. And go with the friends you have done those stupid things with after having a few and you'll appreciate it even more.

Thoughts...

2009-07-11T07:59:00.002-05:00

You know how much I love the website Unclutter. Well here's another great post about "Having it all..." I try to live a simple good life. And this post totally resonated with me. It's all things I have I said and tried to instill in my life. Here's a few of my favorite ideas from Unclutter:

"Determine what matters most to you. Make a list of the people, activities, and things in your life that mean the most to you and then spend the vast majority of your time focusing on these items. Be honest with yourself, though, and put on your list what really matters to you, not what you think should matter to you."

"Remind yourself that even if you live to be 100, life is short. There is no better time to live your life than right now. My life’s motto is carpe vitam, Latin for seize life. It’s morbid to think about, but someday might not ever come. Stop putting things off until tomorrow."

"Say “no” to what doesn’t matter. If an activity or responsibility isn’t on your list of what matters most to you, say “no” to it. Learn to say “no” in such a way as to not be a jerk, but say “no” when you need to. This is where I greatly differ from most people because I don’t feel guilty about protecting my time. And, as far as I know, most people don’t think I’m a jerk because I’m clear about why I’m declining offers and invitations."

"Get rid of everything that is toxic in your life because toxic things are clutter. Toxic people and habits suck up resources and energy. I was an avid smoker until I calculated how much of my money, time, and energy were going into my smoking addiction. No matter how gifted and talented, I avoid employing, working with, and spending time with people who are toxic. A toxic person can waste your time and mental energy faster than any other form of clutter."

"Take risks and be brazen. A second motto in my life is ad astra per aspera, which is loosely translated as to the stars through difficulty. Great things might fall in your lap from time to time, but for the most part you have to get outside your comfort zone and initiate something new."

It was a dark and stormy night...

2009-07-10T09:49:00.002-05:00

Actually it's about 10am and the storm is coming through fast.

Thought for the day...

2009-07-10T08:00:00.004-05:00

An old man walking along the beach at dawn saw a young man picking up starfish and throwing them out to sea. "Why are you doing that?" the old man inquired. The young man explained that the starfish had been stranded on the beach by a receding tide and would soon die in the daytime sun. "But the beach goes on for miles." the old man said. "And there's so many! How can your effort make any difference?"

The young man looked at the starfish in his hand and without hesitating threw it to safety in the sea. He looked up at the old man. He smiled and said, "It will make a difference to that one."

100 Abandoned Houses

2009-07-08T15:40:00.003-05:00

After posting about this house, I stumbled upon this website yesterday, 100 Abandoned Houses. Kevin Bauman started photographing houses in Detroit over 10 years ago and eventually the whole project morphed into a photo documentary of the rise and fall of a city.

Beautiful

2009-07-08T08:00:00.001-05:00

There's a old church that sits on the edge of Sherman Hills. For a long time it was fenced off and it was rumored to be scheduled for demolition. I noticed the other day the fence was gone. I hope that means good things... It's such a cornerstone of that area.

Must See TV

2009-07-07T19:13:00.004-05:00

My new favorite show for summer...Nurse Jackie. Why should you watch? Because it's oh so good. Trust me you'll love it.

Boys of Summer

2009-07-07T08:00:00.001-05:00

I have never been a baseball fan yet you will find me in my hot pink chair cheering on my nephews whenever I can. Johnathan has quite the extended-blended family so he usually has his own little fan club at every game. It's been fun watching him and his teammates grow up over the years.

This crazy girl just goes for the hot dogs and candy.

Painted House

2009-07-06T21:26:00.004-05:00

I'm a sucker for an old house. Can't you just see how pretty this house could be? Some day soon I will show you some of the loveliest houses in Des Moines. The historic Sherman Hills neighborhood.

Quote for the day

2009-07-06T08:00:00.008-05:00

Love begins with a smile,

grows with a kiss,

and ends with a teardrop.

-Anonymous

Taking the day off today. I plan on taking the dogs for a long walk, buying some groceries, grilling out and just enjoying the day. Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend.

I also changed my blog name. I think it suits my blog better. You like? Thoughts please.

Update: I guess a new name needs a new look too.

Thoughts for the day....

2009-07-05T10:57:00.006-05:00

So the Boy and I have hung out together a couple of times. I decided to just go with it and see what happens. He is very sweet. He is smart and cute and I love his goofy smile. I could really like him. But sadly, we do not want the same things. I don't want casual and he doesn't have time for serious. So it might be over before it even begins. sigh...

And now I am sad.

Happy Birthday!

2009-07-04T14:45:00.004-05:00

These two are "Birthday Buddies" as Isabelle would say. Their birthday is actually on the 3rd but we had a little breakfast birthday party this morning.

Every year Isabelle wears something to celebrate Independence Day and the Birthday. Notice the crazy flip flops?

Isabelle was most excited about the Hershey chocolate bars she received while Johnathan was thrilled about the money. He's saving for a trip to Washington D.C. so all he wanted was cash. (This boy has quite the blended-extended family so collecting $1000 by spring shouldn't be a problem.)

Nitefall on the River

2009-07-03T10:24:00.014-05:00

Last night my good friends and I decided to get together. We started the evening at a lovely restaurant, Dos Rios. The food was excellent and the drinks were quite adequate. For having over 100 different tequilas I would expect a better margarita.

I can't remember why Beth was scolding JJ. It probably had something to do with him not committing to something.

Mikey met us at the concert.

Beth's sunglasses broke. Which was quite a tragedy since the sun was so bright.

This is such a great place for concerts. Sister Hazel was our concert of choice. They put on a pretty good show I must say.

It was so much nicer when the sun finally went down. And so pretty too.

Wish I would have brought my real camera. But not too shabby for a cell phone.

A great night was had by everyone and I'm glad we left when we did. Recovery might be a little slow today.

Conversations

2009-07-02T08:00:00.009-05:00

Scene: Friends preparing for get-together tomorrow.

Concert and food and drinks.

Beth: Ok, tickets are ordered, $16.50 each, plus my own personal handling fee of $3.50= $20 each.

Kara: My fee “to be seen with me” is $20 – so it’s a wash for me. Can’t wait for tomorrow!

Jeremy: You pay people $20 to hang out with u?!?

Kara: No that’s how you get your girlfriends…. $20/hour.

Mike: Bam!

Jeremy: I wish they were that cheap!

I think Jeremy wins that round....

Facebook Conversation Update:

Kara: Looking forward to Nitefall on the River tonight!

Beth: Me too!

Jeremy: I don't know. I guess it will be ok.

Mike: Comment Explanation: Kara and Beth are excited because they'll be attending with two of the best looking guys in Iowa. Although Sister Hazel is one of JJ favorites, he says it will be "ok" because he has to go with Kara and Beth.

Rite of Passage

2009-07-01T08:19:00.002-05:00

Hello Braceface!

(Notice the rubberbands match his uniform.)

Relationships

2009-07-01T08:00:00.002-05:00

I so don't get them...I pick the most inappropriate guys. I mostly pick non-committal types. Let's see... recently there was Texas (far away), then Air Force(far, far away) and now The Boy. The Boy is way too young. No matter what anyone says the age difference is just too big. He would be fun for a while but I'm sure it would just end badly (for me). Maybe it's because I really don't want to be in a relationship that I pick guys that won't last. I don't know...I think I want one. I would like to fall in love again...with someone who thinks I'm pretty amazing.

With that said, I tend not to date much if ever. I have done *a lot* of counseling through the years and most of my "life" is in good shape. This is the one area that I just can't seem to figure out. Feel free to leave your thoughts. Or not. It's just a little update on my life as a singleton.

Patio Update

2009-06-30T08:05:00.005-05:00

A little update on Con's patio for you. Doesn't it look amazing?!? I really can't wait to see it with some furniture and plants. But as we all know things happen in stages. I know Con isn't running out right now to buy new chairs. I think she will wait until the end of the season to see if she can get a deal on some things. None-the-less I look forward to hanging out on Con's new patio with a nice glass of wine.

On another note - I met a very interesting fellow at Gray's Lake last night. He was hanging out with his daughter and their little chihuahua, Birthday. (Cute name huh?) We chatted for a little bit and we both said, "Look forward to seeing you tomorrow." Could be interesting since he is totally not my type. (Meaning he's total punk and tattoos and I'm more of the girl-next-door kind of girl.)

Weekend Update

2009-06-29T08:14:00.007-05:00

Oh it was a gorgeous weekend. My niece, Isabelle decided she having a "spend over with me" last week. I think she starting packing for it last Monday.

We had a great time. She was a little annoyed that I didn't arrive in a timely fashion so she called to ask me what was taking me so long!

She is such a funny girl and I love her dearly!

The Art Festival was fantastic this year. So many great artist came to our humble little city. Free music, great food, wine and beer. I didn't go to the free concert with Gavin DeGraw and I am totally kicking myself right now.

Cali Hobgood-Lemme was my favorite this year. I really really wanted to buy something but I just couldn't justify it this year.

This was another favorite. I forgot to pick up a card from this artist. The booth was super busy since tons of people were intrigued by the art work.

Downtown DSM is growing so much - I have no idea what this new building is. It could be new condos or a new insurance building.

Weekend Update

2009-06-28T17:19:00.002-05:00

IMG00057-20090627-1144.jpg
Originally uploaded by KMay2009

What a nice weekend it has been. The Des Moines Art Festival is my favorite thing of the whole summer. It really is a good production all around.

This compliment is still swimming in my brain...
"U were just so hot...professionally dressed, beautiful smile, great personality, independent woman, very sexy. plus the glasses made u look smart. " There are a couple more but I think I'll keep them to myself...

More tomorrow about the weekend.

Unclutter

2009-06-26T08:09:00.002-05:00

And while we're on the subject of clutter and no clutter - I was reading Unclutter today and I came across this post. I don't have a music room, I have a music area. I loved this post because it had some great solutions to clutter that goes with playing an instrument.

I'm not sure why this photo is so grainy. (Cell phones gotta love them.) My music area is in the dining room - it works just fine for me. I painted my music stand a bright green just for fun. Extra music goes in my teak book case. Metronome sits on the shelf.

Bookworm

2009-06-26T08:00:00.002-05:00

Read Apartment Therapy - The Eight Step Home Cure the other night. While I don't need this for my house. I think others could totally benefit from it. I plan to help my sister do this with her house. 4 kids and a husband make for a crazy household.

There were definitely things I totally agreed with Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan. I truly believe if you house isn't in order then your life isn't in order. And when one thing falls into place then other things follow. Here's a few quotes from the book that I thought were pretty powerful:

"Like the body, the home should be thought of as a living organism. Healthy homes are home that consume carefully and get regular exercise...."

"Over attachment to possessions is one of the most powerful habits that you will encounter during the Cure."

"But when we take something new into our home, we rarely let go of something else. This is how our home gains weight, grows unhealthy, and begins to nag at us. Not only have we created some new diseases, we've even created new doctors to treat our problem. Professional organizers and home disaster specialists have sprung up only recently, and their job is to help us sort and manage our extra weight.

Most of us aren't in need of more organizing; we need to manage our consumption, let go of our stuff and learn how to restore life to our homes."

Maxwell creates a whole system to gain control of your house. To me, it totally makes sense. I don't have a huge problem with clutter. I have a closet that needs to be cleaned and a few cabinets that are a little full. Having grown up with a couple of pack rats, who moved city to city with boxes that were never opened and gone through, I get a little bonkers if there is a lot of clutter around. (Some of these boxes were full of baby clothes when I was a teenager. Who was my mother saving this crap for?) I do have a few things that I have saved just because...because if I got rid of it my mom would be pissed. I'm a 40 year old woman and yet I worry about that. Crazy I know!

I digress...The book is a quick read and easy to follow - I highly recommend it.

RIP

2009-06-26T07:39:00.001-05:00

Michael Jackson

RIP

2009-06-25T13:09:00.004-05:00

RIP - Farrah Fawcett

Oh, how I loved Farrah and her hair.

Patio Update

2009-06-25T08:28:00.002-05:00

Thought I would give you another look at Con's patio progress. Looking good isn't it? I can't wait to see the end result.

Quote for the Day

2009-06-24T08:00:00.002-05:00

art work by art junk girl and found this great quote there too.

I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they are right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together. — Marilyn Monroe

Runaway...

2009-06-23T10:21:00.002-05:00

I think I would like to be here today.

Weekend Update

2009-06-22T08:29:00.015-05:00

It was a busy weekend my friends. My friend, Con and I decided to go to Kansas City for a little get-away. All we needed was food, shopping, beverages and a pool - everything else was a bonus.

The Plaza was in walking distance from the hotel. I'm pretty sure we hit every store.

Brio had the best flat bread pizza. Appetizers were $2.50. Of course, our wine was $10 a glass so I guess it all evened out.

I can't remember what store this chandelier was in but it was so cool. And the sales people were awesome.

My favorite apartment building we walked by, The Ponce de Leon with the Fountain of Ewes right in front of the building.

Tons of art everywhere. This guy was right across the street from our hotel.

The Kemper Museum was also right by our hotel.

This was probably my favorite art piece I saw all weekend. It was a No Parking sign with this crazy lady on the back.

Large shuttlecocks by the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art. There were 5 shuttlecocks in various positions. They were made by a husband and wife team...I leave the rest of the interpretation to you.

And this was another sculpture that Con and I didn't know what to think. It's called the Sheep Piece.

I can't remember what this is called but it was cool. It's totally made of wood, yet it looks like stone.

A little creepy...

And of course good food was a priority and any chance I got to eat on a patio that's what we did. I believe this place was called Baja Bar and Grill. Very good food!

And the margaritas were splendid!

We went to McCormick and Schmick's for dinner on Saturday and all I can say is....Wow. It was that good.

Con had the filet mignon and I went with the Miko shark. I was going to go with swordfish but the waitress suggested the shark so I said, "What the hell..sure."

And then the houses....so many cool houses all around downtown. This greystone was right by the hotel.

Con is going to use this house's front porch for inspiration for her front porch.

Love this arts and crafts home.

Incredible arch. Love the stone work.

Probably my favorite house that we saw all weekend. It was so amazing.

Look at the door and that arch! Freakin' brilliant!

Have no idea what this is...cool though.

As soon as you get close to the state border you will find tons of places like this one. Fireworks are illegal in Iowa yet, you can go get enough fire power to blow up your house one state away. Con wanted a couple of safe (and legal) things for her little red headed munchkins. We were so out of our element in this store. Thank god the high school sales boy helped us. We were clueless. I did end up getting some loud poppers for my nephews.

So that's the story of my great weekend. This weekend is the Art Festival in Des Moines. I can't wait! I just hope it's not 100 degrees with 100% humidity.

5 things

2009-06-18T16:30:00.005-05:00

Averill tagged me in her lovely blog today to share some uninteresting things that I love...

I love my pups! They are by far my favorite things...animals...whatever. I love them dearly and they make me laugh everyday. Although I wasn't laughing last night when Arlo decided to run away from me in the yard and sprint down the street. A rare occasion but he knew I was pissed.

I love my Bath and Body lip gloss. Cranberry cocktail is my favorite color. It seems to go with everything, it smells great and it isn't sticky.

I love vintage pottery. My rule when buying is...must not cost more than $10 and it must be blue or blue/green.

I love junk food. I frequent McDonalds, Burger King and Wendy's. I love my cheeseburger and fries - what can I say.

I love tea! I drink tea like most people drink coffee. I loved traveling abroad this year. It was so awesome that tea was offered before coffee.

Have a great weekend everyone!! I'm taking the day off tomorrow. I am hanging out with my friend Con so no post on Friday.

Tree Update

2009-06-18T13:44:00.004-05:00

So this is the tree. Completely hollow inside. The tree guys told me just this small part of the tree weighs 4500 lbs. They made the removal look so easy. The louvers came off the front of the building and the tree came down.

This area looks so different now. (My office is located in the library on campus.) The louvers on the front of the building shaded the space and without them it's kind of naked looking.

Welcome to the Jungle

2009-06-18T09:59:00.004-05:00

Not sure why my camera phone went green...

View from the front doors.

Huge crane they brought in to move the tree.

It was kind of fun to watch the whole process. Basically it was three guys taking down this enormous tree. 2 guys cutting it down and 1 guy working the crane. Now the engineers have to check out the front to make sure the awning won't fall on anyone. All of it makes for an interesting day.

View From my Window...

2009-06-18T08:20:00.005-05:00

So this is what I found when I arrived at work today....Crazy storms last night. Everything else on campus seems to be ok. Makes for an exciting morning.

Before

2009-06-17T08:43:00.003-05:00

My good friend, Con is building a new patio for her house. I told her I needed photos for my blog. Con and Bill live in the house that Bill grew up in. They have completely renovated the house and are now working on the outside. I like to say they live in the country. I'm pretty sure Con would disagree with me. But if it's not Des Moines, then it's the country to me. I'll have more photos of the patio progress this weekend.

The Uniform Project

2009-06-16T08:00:00.002-05:00

I went to Catholic school so I totally can appreciate this idea. I don't think I could pull it off now but I think it's great and I love her creativity. In her own words....

"Starting May 2009, I have pledged to wear one dress for one year as an exercise in sustainable fashion. Here’s how it works: There are 7 identical dresses, one for each day of the week. Every day I will reinvent the dress with layers, accessories and all kinds of accouterments, the majority of which will be vintage, hand-made, or hand-me-down goodies. Think of it as wearing a daily uniform with enough creative license to make it look like I just crawled out of the Marquis de Sade's boudoir."

"The Uniform Project is also a year-long fundraiser for the Akanksha Foundation, a grassroots movement that is revolutionizing education in India. At the end of the year, all contributions will go toward Akanksha’s School Project to fund uniforms and other educational expenses for slum children in India."

Weekend Update

2009-06-15T08:17:00.003-05:00

The highlight of the weekend. I cleaned. I did the gross stuff I haven't done in ages. Like clean the oven. It was totally disgusting. And my second least favorite - cleaning the microwave. I did manage to get a walk in at Gray's too. That's it for me.

Day Three of orientation. Another group of nervous and excited students and parents on campus today. I am a faculty advisor today and I am tired.

Good times

2009-06-12T11:25:00.004-05:00

image by cig harvey

This will be me by the end of the day. Orientation is an awesome time on campus but it does take a lot out of you. My feet aren't used to being in heels all day, especially when you have to run across campus two and three times. The best part is seeing all the new freshman. They are so excited to start college so it's easy to be excited with them.

The only other thing to report today is.... Sarah Palin is a tool. Listening to her on the Today show this morning made me gag. By the way Sarah - Irregardless is NOT a word.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Quote for the Day

2009-06-11T07:55:00.002-05:00

image found here

The best way to cheer yourself up

is to try to cheer somebody else up.
Mark Twain

AT update

2009-06-10T08:03:00.007-05:00

So I have been watching the comments on Apartment Therapy about my place....

When I took pictures of my patio I had only planned on using them on my blog. Sorry they are a little wacky. Straight on pictures are a little boring at times. I tried to make them interesting.

Arlo and Minnie are chihuahuas. Arlo is at least 8 lbs. And he is a sun worshiper. He would rather sunbathe on the sidewalk or driveway than lay on the grass in the shade under the tree. (Minnie is only 3 lbs.)

One thing that is hard to deal with on my little patio is the lack of space and my air conditioner unit takes up at least a third of the patio. So all things considered, I think it's a pretty good job. Most people in my neighbor don't even use their space. I would like to add a half umbrella at some point and a rug for some color. But other than that, it's a pretty good place to read a book and have a glass a wine while the dogs play in the grass.

So there you have it - My 15 seconds of fame is almost over. Thanks for stopping by.

OMG!

2009-06-09T13:24:00.003-05:00

I can NOT believe it!! Apartment Therapy and ME!!

Sucker

2009-06-09T09:52:00.008-05:00

I'm a sucker for true crime television shows. My favorite is probably 48 hours. I love how Discovery has a whole channel devoted to Dateline, 48 hours, Real NCIS, Wicked Attraction and a bunch of other crazy crime shows. I can't help it - it's so intriguing how the story unfolds.

Did anyone watch Dateline last night? It was chilling. The story was something that anyone could identify with...feuding neighbors. It all starts with a small thing and then another small thing and so on and so on until it escalates to a couple of homicides and one neighbor spending the rest of his life in jail. The whole altercation was caught on tape by the 911 operator. Educated, smart people who were very involved in the community. Well liked individuals involved in a dispute. It truly was shocking.

I can tell you, I have had my neighbor issues in the past - Neighbor who put up the privacy fence I'm talking about you! This is one of those stories that makes you think about how silly the things you fight about are...I, for one, am glad I know all my neighbors pretty well and think everyone is pretty respectful to each other. You almost have to be when you live in a townhouse. I don't have a moral of the story - I'm pretty sure you can figure it out for yourself.

Weekend Update

2009-06-08T08:28:00.009-05:00

I thought I would give you an updated look of my tiny little patio now that very thing is in full bloom. It's so hard to give your place an individual look when you live in a townhome complex. But I think I did a pretty good job. (Target door mat - $10)

Hot green pots spilling with flowers definitely make my house stand out from the crowd. (Green pot came from Home Depot.)

I found these garden stars years ago and they have lived at two different houses. It also helps when someone is trying to find your house for the first time.

I added a couple of little green oil lamps that I found at Pier 1 to my sitting area. I think a rug might be a nice touch too.

Arlo doing his best Joey Tribbiani impersonation.

I don't have any other stories to tell. It was a quiet weekend and I didn't do much of anything. I did manage to clean out my garage and car yesterday. And shortly after we had thunderstorms and tornadoes. No major damage but one tornado was a little too close for comfort.

Quote for the Day

2009-06-06T08:00:00.001-05:00

image found here

We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have. -Frederick Keonig

Pig Out!

2009-06-05T09:40:00.003-05:00

This week is the World Pig Expo in Iowa. I told you there were plenty of things to do in Des Moines. So I asked my sister to do a guest blog for me and she had some lame excuse about having writer's block. See it's not so easy to maintain a blog with creative, thoughtful posts. She did manage to take some interesting photos.

Why would you go to the pig expo you ask? For the food and the crazy people watching.

Ouch!

2009-06-04T10:49:00.003-05:00

Poor Isabelle! Here's some pictures of my crazy niece after the baseball bat incident. We are quite the DIY'ers in my family but I am glad my sister D decided to take Isabelle to Blank Children's Hospital to get stitched up. We aren't ones to get worked up about these things. My mom was a OR nurse and blood and gore just didn't faze us as kids. Nor did we get any sympathy from mom for minor things like cuts and scraps. Unless you lost an appendage...that might warrant some sympathy.

Dinner & Dish

2009-06-04T08:53:00.004-05:00

Last night for the first time in over a year we had all the members of Dinner & Dish present. Andrea just had to go to Iraq to fight for our country. You would think after being called up two other times she would have been like, "No, no - You go." But of course she didn't and off to war she went. Well it was great to see her and catch up on all the crazy events of the last year.

Alison made us way too many treats. I think my favorite was the fried mac and cheese balls. She had a couple of dips, mini cheese balls, crackers, cookies, cake and of course plenty of wine. I brought a bottle of champagne to celebrate Andrea being home. (I'm pretty sure I drank most of it myself.)

Highlights of the night:
Tucker (Alison's youngest boy) put a curse or a spell on us.
Discussion of hair removal.
Liz's get-a-way weekend.
Andrea's war stories.
Kara's vacay.
Deer in the garden.
Alison building a fire. (She wasn't a girl scout.)

After that everything gets a little fuzzy. Great night girls!

Sock Monkey

2009-06-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

I wish I could remember where I found this awesome bathroom. So cute!

View From my Window...

2009-06-03T15:48:00.002-05:00

Bag Lady

2009-06-03T08:00:00.001-05:00

Going through my inspiration files I found this lovely photo. I'm thinking Ikea and West Elm both have similar shelving - Anyone could do this in their closet or second bedroom.

Things to do....

2009-06-02T14:39:00.002-05:00

Sometimes people complain that there isn't anything to do in the big DSM. Well I'm here to tell you there's plenty to do. Here's a couple of websites to check out if you need some help. I, for one, am excited for Nitefall on the River and the Art Festival. And I found this Downtown Des Moines website that gives you plenty of options too. Summer in DSM is my favorite time of year!

Desperately Seeking

2009-06-02T08:00:00.001-05:00

I watched Desperately Seeking Susan the other night since Mediacom decided to screw with my movie channels. Who didn't love this silly little movie? It's amazing how charismatic Madonna was at the time. And her style then....I miss my crazy 80's hair. I still love the Jimi Hendrix jacket she wore and the sparkly boots. But best of all was the suitcase with skulls all over it.

Key to Happiness

2009-06-01T15:58:00.001-05:00

Weekend Update

2009-06-01T08:56:00.011-05:00

It was a beautiful weekend. I could use a few more days like that. Saturday was perfect so what better way to end the day but to go to a backyard BBQ. My friend Larry was having a few friends over to celebrate 100 years. He and his partner, Barry are both 50 years old this year. What a perfect way to celebrate. (BTW their backyard is actually 10 acres.)

And it's full of gorgeous flowers, trees and plants. Iris is one of my favorite flowers.

And he has a few land creatures like this one...

And probably one of my most favorite flowers ever...the white peony.

And as the sun went down it got a little chilly outside. Someone got the fire pit going to warm things up. And then someone threw a dead pine tree on it.

Here's the proof of why Christmas trees are so dangerous....

All in all it was a great weekend. Other than my crazy niece got hit in the head with a baseball bat and ended up in the emergency room. She's fine and now has a goose egg the size of Michigan and 10 stitches in her head. Ah... the good life.

Puppy pics

2009-06-01T08:54:00.001-05:00

People I could be friends with...

2009-05-31T07:50:00.001-05:00

Ceaser Millan

Niecy Nash

Tim Gunn

Do it yourself....

2009-05-30T08:00:00.002-05:00

I really like this idea. Peg board and a frame and some paint. Easy peasy. Found it here.

View From my Window...

2009-05-29T08:44:00.003-05:00

Watching Ron, one of our maintenance workers in this cherry picker is making my feet sweat! I'm not afraid of heights but things like this literally make my feet sweat.

Conversations

2009-05-29T08:16:00.001-05:00

Andy Warhol: I wonder if people are going to remember us?

Edie Sedgwick: What, when we're dead?

Andy: Yeah.

Edie: Well I think people will talk about how you changed the world.

Andy: I wonder what they'll say about you... in your obituary. I like that word.

Edie: Nothing nice, I don't think.

Andy: No, come on. They'd say, "Edith Minturn Sedgwick: beautiful artist and actress...

Edie:...and all around loon.

Andy: remembered for setting the world on fire...

Edie: ...and escaping the clutches of her terrifying family...

Andy:...Made friends with eeeeverybody, and anybody...

Edie:...creating chaos and uproar wherever she went. Divorced as many times as she married, she leaves only good wishes behind. [laughs]

Edie: That's nice, isn't it?

Source: Weheartit via Little Lady Lost

Summer Etiquette

2009-05-28T13:39:00.005-05:00

As you know, I love sitting on my little porch reading a book and having a beverage or two. So when I ran across this little snippet on Apartment Therapy it made me think of my neighbors in my townhome complex. It's not a historic brownstone with beautiful old porches but we do alright. I know everyone on my little block and everyone knows me. It's a good thing really. But there are times for proper etiquette.

Matthew Smith wrote a nice little article in the Midnight Sun about Porch drinking. Some really good rules to follow when you are enjoying your porch, your stoop or just plain hanging out in the drive way.

Here's a few of my favorite rules:

"Greet your neighbors as they come in and out of their front doors, which are, after all directly adjacent to your drinking area. Not to do so will create a weirdness force-field for all future interactions." (My advice is to invite them over for a beer. Some of the most fun has been an impromptu block party on the driveway.)

"Clean up after yourself, but don’t scrub too hard. A porch should never feel too clean to spill a beer on."

"When the cops come to your door, be excruciatingly polite to them. Do not remind them that there are murders they might be solving. They know this, and it is why they are irritated with you."

Movin' on Up

2009-05-27T20:25:00.007-05:00

I haven't had a home computer in the last 5-6 years. I know you are thinking, "How is that even possible???" Well it is. And it was nice for a while and then I started to really miss having the internet. So I got my Blackberry Storm. I thought that would be enough to satisfy my internet cravings....and it did for a while. But then I found out about netbooks. My friend Con first introduced me to netbooks one fine day after a few beers at Francies. I thought it was a little weird and cheap to be honest. But I was intrigued. So I did some research over the last few months. And I thought, "Hey this is brilliant for what I use a computer for!" And THEN....Verizon decides to sell an HP Netbook at a good price and I can just add on to my cell phone bill for a even better deal. Voila! Meet my new netbook.

Update: What is a Netbook you ask? (Thanks Rockstar!) It's a mini computer so to speak. I can do most things any laptop can do but not everything. I mainly use mine for bloggin', photos (but not photo shop), emailing, music (just a little bit) and of course traveling on the world wide web. It's small and light so it's made for throwing it in your purse and staying connected.

Introducing.....

2009-05-27T08:00:00.002-05:00

I have a new little creative-ish project. I started a new blog. I'm still so sad that Domino and Cottage Living are gone along with a few other magazines I enjoyed. So I decided I'm going to use all my inspiration photos that I have saved on my computer for this blog. I got the idea from Home Sweet Home. A great place for some inspiration. So sit back and enjoy all you house/home photo junkies. It's called The Home Files.

Weekend Update

2009-05-26T08:50:00.013-05:00

Bought this chicken for $5 at the Brass Armadillo. I love this place for funky finds.

This crazy girl informed her mom and me that she would be spending the night with me this weekend and proceeded to change all the clocks in my house when she got there. Don't ask.

Watched this guy play some baseball. It was a bittersweet weekend because Johnathan's grandmother passed away. (Not my mom - Johnathan's paternal grandmother.) BTW - the kid's on Johnathan's team call him Mac & Cheese.

Again - Don't ask.

All in all it was a lovely weekend.

Long Weekend...

2009-05-25T07:51:00.001-05:00

Hope you are enjoying the Memorial Holiday. Thank you to all my military friends and family. Welcome home Army Girl! (And Air Force will be home much sooner than expected. Don't know what that means for me- so don't ask.)

Backyard wants...

2009-05-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

Green House by mayk1 on Polyvore.com

Quote for the Day

2009-05-22T08:00:00.007-05:00

If you want to change, you can change.

If you don't want to change,

you can stay right where you are, forever.

-Jon Katz

Found Jon's blog surfing today and I like what he had to say. The Bedlam Farm is the small farm where he lives with his wife, 4 dogs, a couple of donkeys and some chickens. Looks like a good life to me...

Yum!

2009-05-21T09:20:00.004-05:00

Tell me this doesn't look like heaven! PMS heaven! I have spied this incredible looking cake on a couple of other blogs and every time I see it I WANT IT!

I'm not a big food blog person but Vanilla Sugar's blog has my mouth watering right now. Check it out!

Rules...

2009-05-21T08:58:00.004-05:00

Do not go to the Lake to walk at 7pm.

If you must stop - get off the trail! or go sit and chat on the park benches.

Headphones are a must. Whoever told me to take headphones to the Lake was a genius. No one expects you to stop and chat when you have headphones in your ears. Freakin' Brilliant!

end of rant.

Guest House Bedroom

2009-05-21T07:44:00.001-05:00

Guest house bedroom by mayk1 on Polyvore.com

Nothing much....

2009-05-20T08:33:00.004-05:00

Why is it when I practice my animals decide this is the perfect place to nap?

Perfect day to hang out on the patio with a book while the puppies play.

Perfect shoes for my dress, they make me about 6 feet tall yet I feel like I'm walking in my very first pair of high heels. Could be a problem...

Kinda Beachy...

2009-05-19T09:00:00.005-05:00

Beach House by mayk1 on Polyvore.com

Polyvore is kind of a cool site. I thought it was mostly for clothes but I was mistaken. This is the set I created for my imaginary beach house. Not perfect but kind of fun.

Guest Cottages

2009-05-19T07:20:00.000-05:00

image found here
image found here

image found here

My sister and I are planning for the future.

And the future looks bright....More on this later.

Weekend Update

2009-05-18T08:36:00.008-05:00

I think I finally found my motivation again. Last summer, I usually walked 6 miles a day at least 4 x week. This year = nothing. Which has proved to be a very bad thing (that and a few food binges). So Sunday, Arlo and I got in a nice walk before it started raining. I also managed to clean the house, do laundry, watch a couple movies and take Minnie on a 2 mile walk all in the same day. My plan is to continue walking after work this week. I plan on walking 4 miles a day. Maybe 6 on Friday.

How to...

2009-05-16T07:52:00.003-05:00

I love flagstone patios. I'm obsessed with them to be perfectly honest. Apartment Therapy has a "How to Build a Flagstone Patio Fast" for you.

Oh the places you'll go...

2009-05-15T08:22:00.006-05:00

“You’re on your own, and you know what you know.

And you will be the guy who’ll decide where you’ll go.

Oh the places you’ll go.”

Dr. Seuss

In honor of my seniors graduating tomorrow.

Where the green grass grows...

2009-05-14T10:51:00.003-05:00

My sister has 1 husband, 4 crazy kids, 2 gigantic dogs. And a big backyard - that is trashed. I think she needs something likes this for the backyard. Now all she needs to do is win the lottery, rob a bank or sell a child...

Do Not Disturb...

2009-05-13T10:46:00.005-05:00

I will be LOST tonight and I can't wait. The phone will be off. The blinds will be drawn. I will be curled up on my couch with two little chis watching my favorite show. Anyone else excited??