HELLO, Hello...hello.....yep, there's an echo in here

So for the five of you that occasionally read my blog, I am posting! Some of you have been bugging me to come back to blog land and I will try to oblige your requests. You know when you get so behind on something and you don't even know where to start, so you just don't start? Yep, that's me. Like the rest of you, I've mostly been trying to keep up with life and keeping up on my blog just fell to the bottom of the list (ok, it totally fell off the list).  I am going to try to catch up on some past events and I will plug them in by date. Let me warm up my fingers and take a deep breath....here's to catching up.

Amazing

Yesterday morning, I had my recommend renewal appointment with a counselor in the stake presidency. After a little chatting, we began the formal interview with a prayer. After the prayer, he paused and said, "I have the impression to tell you that you are a great mom." Given my recent feelings (as noted in the last post), this was an amazing tender mercy from my Heavenly Father.  This was an incredible confirmation that He knows me personally and loves me. This unexpected affirmation of love is one I know I will heavily rely on in the coming months and for that I am so grateful.

Feeling incompetent. Feeling stressed. Feeling blessed.

So I haven't been blogging much lately...not sure that anyone has noticed. Sometimes my mind gets much too jumbled with all the things I have to do, all the things I should do and all the things I want to do. I hate feeling this way and when I do, my weaknesses really seem to look me right in the face. Lately, I've been feeling the pressures of motherhood wearing me down.

I worry that I my preschooler won't willingly tell me letters, let alone be reading by the time kindergarten starts. Why are so many other kids reading when they reach kindergarten?? I worry that I haven't found the perfect childhood hobby for my kids. Since when did our children need a childhood career? Seriously, sometimes I feel like if you haven't found your child's "chosen hobby" by the time they are eight, it's too late. Things are getting way too intense and competitive if you ask me. I worry that my older kids don't know all the Articles of Faith and that my youngest doesn't like to pray. I worry that my house isn't as clean and organized as it should be. I worry that I don't scrapbook anymore and my youngest one wonders where all her pictures are. I worry that I'm not enjoying motherhood enough and this time really is going to be over before I know it.

And then I take a deep breath.

I feel blessed.

I know everything will work itself out. It has to. I wasn't reading when I started kindergarten and somehow I managed to graduate from college. I trust that my kids will find something they are passionate about...even if they aren't on a competitive team or the most coordinated one in dance class. I know my kids are absorbing more of the gospel than I ever did at their age and I even passed off my Articles of Faith. Somedays I get my house clean and the laundry done...a lot of days I don't. I know my kids know I love them...regardless of the number of scrapbook pages each of them have (or don't have). I know this mothering part of life will be over before I know it, but I know that motherhood never ends. However, I am trying harder to hug them a little more, look into their eyes more deeply and listen more intently and get angry a little less. And I when I fail, I just try again.

No coat needed....naturally

There must be an unwritten rule that is not cool to wear weather appropriate clothing to Jr. High. This morning, with snow on the ground, Josh hops in the car "senza" coat. (pulling a little I-talian there) I make a comment and he replies, "I need a coat?? Should I go back and get one?" Pulling out my best "love and logic" answer, I respond, "No, I guess you don't need a coat." I really had to bite my tongue from giving him a lecture. I kept telling myself, if he's cold he will learn and he has to learn for himself (a la "Parenting With Love and Logic"). As carpool continued, I wasn't sure if my mind should be put at ease or I should be more perplexed. One boy we picked up not only had no jacket, but was wearing shorts. As we pulled up to school, we were surrounded by kids with no jackets, shorts and get this....flip flops. Yes, I'm sure of it: there is an unwritten rule that you should dress completely opposite of what is appropriate.

Better than any medication...

...blue skies, a surprise flower in bloom and sun! As far as I'm concerned, it is SPRING!!! Spring colors, new growth and more sun. There are few things that make me happier. I have had a smile on my face all day. Once March 1st hits, I am full of spring fever. I don't need to wait until the 21st and my little crocus that surprised me this morning confirmed it as well. Certainly it will snow again, but no matter....spring is here!

True Story

While sitting at parent-teacher conference this last week, I discussed possible solutions with the teacher to help my child make sure work is turned in. We've had some issues with work not being turned in. I am all for my child learning self reliance and responsibility, but this is the third grade we talking about here and there still needs to be guidance.

The conversation begins with me asking,

"Do you call for the kids to turn in their homework each morning or at certain time during the day?" 

(I wonder what the classroom routine is. I wonder if my child is just not hearing this "call" for work, if she is day dreaming or if she is even aware that homework needs to be turned in.)

To this question, I get the reply,

"That's a really good idea. 
I think I will start doing that."

I was speechless.

Shift

Do you ever realize just how much you get set in your ways. Sure small things change, but overall, you just keep plodding forward just like you did yesterday, last month...last year? Recently, it seems my life has shifted...just slightly, but wow, enough to leave me feeling a bit off kilter.
There's been the small things. Take running for example. For something that I don't particularly love, it's taken over more time and thought than I'd care to make room for. I've committed to doing a 1/2 marathon in January. I'm thinking this wasn't the best choice...all my spare cold weather-holiday packed schedule time is getting filled with runner's guilt. "Today is slightly warm...I'd better run," or "I need to meet another milestone in my training...I have to go run."  I'm as slow as ever and I'm not even shedding any winter weight either. Grrr. I did hit the 8 mile mark....big milestone!
Then there's been the changes at church. Total change of pace going from Relief Society to Primary. I'm not saying this is bad...just different.  My friend told me to think of it as "spiritual cross training." I love that. I've also had the opportunity to be a small part of a neighbor taking the discussing and attending church. Something else that weighs heavily on my thoughts; "Am I doing enough," "Did I say the right things," or "How is she feeling about this." A lot to take in.
Then, I've had moments of change with my kids. More accurately, I would say moments of realization on my part. Realizing where I am totally lacking as a parent. It takes work to be totally aware of each facet of  their life. From social issues at school, to work ethic at home and school,  to lesson schedules, to individual desires and emotions....it's just hard to stay on top of. We recently had a disconcerting parent teacher conference....a real eye opener. Parenting is just A LOT of work. Constant re-awareness. Constant starting over (how many times do you re-start your family scripture reading or re-teach your kids how to clean the bathroom?) I feel like I am constantly falling short. I do the best thing I know how....start again.
Then, the biggest change in my life right now. Work. I had planned to start some sort of job when all the kids were in school, but not for at least a year. I'd been thinking what will I do? What can I do? Missions, college and weddings will be here soon...let alone the basement we dream of. Well, a couple weeks ago an opportunity came my way. The timing seems a bit premature, but they are totally willing to take me when they can. I am working for a retinal specialist. At this point only about 10+ hrs a week (in office and at home). Initially I thought I would be doing trascription and receptionist duties. I was a bit overwhelmed on my first day when the doctor walked out of the exam room and said, "Oh, will you re-numb his eye?" What? You want me to get in his personal space and put something in his eye? It was made clear to me that everyone is trained in everything. In addition to scheduling, phones, insurance, and trasnscription, I am also learning all the tech stuff. That means I will be the one that does the initial patient exam....accuity test, eye pressure, numbing, dilation, scans, surgery tray prep, and charting.  Oh and throw in the handling of syringes and medications that cost $2000 a pop. Ummm....don't I need a degree for all that? My brain has never felt so atrophied. All the acronyms, abbreviations, latin terms, medical terms....all very overwhelming. Oh, and I had have to dress professionally?! I only have one pair of non-denim pants. See what I mean....a total shift from where I've been. Right now, it feels like so many more hours that it is...this steep learning curve is mentally exhausting. I'm reserving total judgement until I'm feeling more settled in a couple weeks (or months), but I think I kind of like the challenge and patient interaction. We will see how this all settles in. Until then, I will continue starting over each time I fall short.

Little gems from the past

   Don't you love it when you unexpectedly find something?  Five dollars in the jacket you haven't worn since last fall? A lost necklace, for example? How about a photo you forgot existed or a letter from a g'parent that is now gone? This afternoon I found those very things. One made me laugh out loud, this other made me thoughtful and pensive.
   I am working on a Christmas gift for my kids (hopefully I can pull it together!)and I've had to sort through old photos and papers. Besides finding that my photo taking and paper keeping is a bit lop-sided between the kids (you know: oldest child vs. middle child vs. the baby!!), I've also found some wonderful gems from the past. Forgotten Mother's Day cards done in nursery, primitively scrawled names and great photos. Among these things, I found this letter from my G'ma Jensen. I loved coming across this letter talking about what was going on in her life. I loved seeing her handwriting. I loved seeing an article she knew I'd love. (about my dear great uncle Merrill). I even love the little pink post it attached to article. So glad I kept it all.
   Next, the laughter. I came across this  random photo taken at work. I was working for the Sears calling center in Provo. How old do you think I look in this photo? Now before you look at the date and do the math, give it a guess. I've shown this to a couple people today. Fourteen was one reply, and sixteen was the other. Nope, I'd be 24yrs old...pregnant with my second child. Yes, I can hear you laughing now. The bangs. The glasses. Oh, I thought those were so cute and made me look older. The shirt. Yikes! the shirt....an oversized courderoy number...so 90's, right? No wonder I got looks of pity when I went to the grocery store....looks of pity from everyone assuming I was a teen mom.
   Often going through old things just makes me melancholy. I get sad seeing that time relentlessly marches forward leaving loved ones gone and little ones grown up too fast. And then....and then....I find something funny like this that just laughs those blues away!

How can this not make you smile?

Temple Riders

One of the things I love about watching conference in Utah are the little news/movie/biography vignettes that KSL plays between sessions. Stories about members, temples and events from around the world are featured. Today, "Footprints of Faith" featured the Temple Riders motorcycle group. Now really, how can you not smile when you see this? Our bishop in Colorado, Bishop Chuck Barton loved going on motorcycle trips with his wife Bea (I loved having Bea as my visiting teacher). I always loved that they had such a unique hobby together. There was a running joke that you could hear the hum of their motorcycles in the parking lot on the day he was released. Hmm...I wonder, are they part of the Temple Riders today?

And the "Mother of Year" award goes to....

Just in case you were competing for this award, I'm pretty sure I've got the title secured. Yea, having another one of "those" days. Again. I seem to have a lot of these.

Today was Josh's first day of school. I bought Dunford doughnuts for breakfast (see I really am trying to be mother of the year...or not, if you're a healthy mom....ha ha!). I set the alarm bright and early to give us plenty of time in the morning. Alarm goes off (Chad is out of town btw, so I do have another person's awareness as insurance). I look at the clock and think, "Eh...this is too early. I will wake up in 10 minutes." Next thing I know, I'm being awakened by pounding on the front door. Carpool is here!! I throw on a robe and send carpool on their way and then get Josh out of bed. Luckily, being a boy, it doesn't take much to get ready. I even had time for a quick 1st day of school photo. AND...he even got breakfast. I knew I bought doughnuts for a reason! Just after I drop Josh off (he was on time!) I realize he has no lunch money. I will have to drop some off later.

Still more.

As I'm leaving the gym, I notice a call from the elementary school. I quickly realize that today is picture day. I even had this one written on the calendar (I swear calendars don't work...oh, yea, I have to actually check the calendar). My mind flutters with resolutions. Run to the school with a brush, go home get new clothes...or, do nothing. I concede to do nothing. I am going for authenticity in the school pictures this year. The kids just as they are...no cute hair, no clean shirt....heck, I don't even know if their faces are clean. It's all good. There is plenty of time later for perfectly presented children in photos, right?

Still more.

I have no brain. I wonder how many blog posts have egregious spelling errors and grammatical mistakes (I'm sure many in this post alone). I had done a fun little photo collage of a recent relief society activity. I was asked for copies and emailed them out. Last night I got a couple emails.
"The Higland 1st Ward Summer Salad Social." A few problems: we are not the 1st ward we are the 9th. So a totally fumble around photoshop and somehow change the number and email the new copy. More emails this morning. Ummm....Higland is spelled Hig*h*land. Whatever, it's already been emailed to the ward. I give up.

Sharing with others....

I am convinced that one of the biggest contributors to hate, racism, war, labels, contention and a general lack of progress and peace is a lack understanding. Either we don't care to understand each other or we don't try to understand each other. Ignorance is not always bliss. I think sometimes we avoid people that are not like us...it takes a little more effort to reach outside our comfort zone. Yes, I am getting a little deep here...stay with me. And, I bet you are wondering why there is an orange flag next to a picture of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. I will tell you!

The street we currently live on has very diverse neighbors... ethnically and religiously. Sometimes it is a challenge but mostly, I think it is wonderful to be surrounded by so many that are different from me. There is one family in particular that I've gotten to know fairly well. They are a Sikh Indian family. We have had the opportunity to talk on a number of occasions. Several of our conversations have centered on their beliefs and my beliefs. I've learned a lot about the Sikh religion. Did you know it's only about 500yrs old? Did you know they don't remove any hair from their body? (yes, the girls are sad to not wax their eyebrows once they fully convert) Did you know they are vegetarian?

This last month, I invited them to the temple open house and they excitedly accepted. About two weeks ago, Boneeta came to my door with her sister Jasmine to tell me they were having a 3 day prayer and that there would be lots of cars on the street. They also invited me down for some food. I politely declined (why would I put myself in a slightly uncomfortable situation??lol). While they were at my door, I asked Boneeta what she thought of the temple. She said she loved it. I thought it was interesting that she specifically commented on the baptistry. Her sister, Jasmine (who lives out of state) expressed that she'd love to see the temple, too. That could be arranged easily enough! I told her that I would get the tickets and bring them over that night. I ran down the street to get some tickets from our mission leader. As I came to Jasmine's house, the garage door was opened and the garage was filled with beautifully dressed people from their group. As I gave them the tickets, I was asked if I'd like to stay for some food. Once again, I politely declined. After talking for a few more minutes, I was asked again if I'd like to stay. Feeling the sweat building, I thought to myself, "This is exactly the thing I need to do. What the heck, I will join them!" And join them I did! Yep, little miss whitey, feeling a little under dressed (and immodest) in my shorts, surrounded by a group of beautiful Indians, gorgeously dressed in their traditional Indian clothing. They were so gracious and even looked a little pleased to have an outsider join them. Yes, I felt sweaty, anxious and out of place but I loved that I took this step outside of my comfort zone. So there I sat with a plate full of delicious Indian food, listening to them speak Punjabi and learning more about their religion and culture. Boneeta then asked me if I'd like to see the prayer. "Sure!" I said, feeling a little more adventurous. I would have to take my shoes off and cover my head with an orange scarf. I entered the house to see a beautiful canopy in the living room with an older lady reading from their scriptures. You see, with this 3 day prayer, they are not allowed to stop. That is why there are so many people coming and going...they all take turns.

I can't tell you how invigorating this was for me. I like to think of myself as a nice person. However, even a nice person's mind needs a little expanding now and then. Growing up in Utah didn't offer me many mind-opening experiences and this was just the kind of thing to help counter that. I left feeling like I had gained a new confidence and ability to show my love for those that are different than me and to not be afraid to ask about or surround myself with those that are outside my normal circle. What a wonderful, wonderful experience!!

When "taking it one day at a time" is NOT a good thing....

....when you forget your child's preschool graduation.

I don't even know why I am posting this because if you know me, this really is no surprise. I guess I'm just posting this to document my senility. I've gotten in the (bad) habit of checking Jenna's preschool calendar right before school each day. This has caused us to miss a few field trips and now her little graduation. Basically anything that is outside the normal day and time of preschool I have missed. I do stuff like this far too often. What's the deal??

Where is Julie and what have you done with her??

If you know me, you know that I really, really, really like my diet coke. Preferably with lemon...a good lemon (yes, there is such a thing as a good lemon and a not good lemon). A seemingly shortage of good lemons has led me to become fond of adding a splash of Diet Dr. Pepper in my Diet Coke (thanks Heidi and Heather). This love of mine also seems to keep my social life healthy...food, friends, driving, watching tv, working...it all seems to go better with a Diet Coke. Am I right or am I right? I even have a network of friends at the corner gas station whom I love to chat with whenever I go in for a "freshie" (ie. the correct terminology for a Diet Coke fresh from the fountain. Thanks Mary). Yes, Diet Coke has become a part of my daily life. Not to the extent that I have one for breakfast but, everyday nonetheless. Yes, I am aware that I can clean a toilet, car battery and whatever else with this drink with will one day kill me. BUT I STILL LIKE IT. A lot. So why am I going on about my love for the wonderfully, fizzy brown drink??

I HAVE NOT HAD A DIET COKE FOR 4 DAYS!

Four days people! I know, what has the world come to? I will NOT commit to giving it up completely. I am, however, seeing how long I can go without it and seeing (really, really hoping) if there are any incredible health benefits for doing so. Like better workouts/runs and oh, maybe, a bit of weight loss. I wonder if any of these "things" you hear about soda are true. It's funny, I find myself almost getting bored without the comfort of my 32 oz. Holiday cup filled with that really good pellet ice and fresh Diet Coke. I am trying to replace it with lots of water. Yes, I have all sorts of drink mix variations to help out. Other than boredom, a few mild headaches (I can't believe they weren't worse!) and some temptation from Chad last night I AM ROCKIN' IT!!! Seriously, I can't believe it! I would like to think I could allow my self some allowances like Diet Coke on weekends, but truthfully, I'm afraid I will fall off the wagon completely. For now, I am going to go as long as can and hope that my Diet Coke free body will shed pounds and run a marathon (ha ha).

What's the best jumpstart for your heart in morning?

The sound of the garbage truck coming earlier than it usually does!
I was caught off guard as I heard the roar of the truck...much earlier than usual. I quickly threw in the Halloween pumpkins and rushed down the driveway. As I glanced down the street, I saw half a dozen of my neighbors frantically doing the same thing! It was hilarious...all of us half dressed running for the curb!

Yesterday, we had the opportunity to see the "Body Worlds" exhibit in Salt Lake. I had some people question my judgement on taking my kids. My thought? How could I not take them? I didn't want them to miss this opportunity to see their bodies like they never have before. Beforehand, we talked about what they would see (yes, real bodies...some with "privates" showing). Sarah's only concern was, "What will happen when they are resurrected?" We met my mom and dad and Jeff and Alice. I have to say the exhibit met almost every expectation I had. I thought I'd be a little more blown away (I don't know how), but that being said, it was still very much worth it. Sarah had a little harder time than I thought. Surprisingly, what bothered her the most was the darkness (everything surrounded in black w/ very little lighting), the quiet (only the sound of a heartbeat played along w/ every one's whispers) and she didn't really like the specimens that showed only blood vessels(really nothing more than floating, painted vessels still in the shape of the body). I don't think having eaten Crown Burger right before helped either (while I wasn't at all nauseous, it sat pretty heavy on my stomach...it was a bit warm in there, too). Photos were not allowed, but you can see a great slide show and family guide at the site http://theleonardo.org/bodyworlds/index.php

Some of the highlights were:
-The baby portion. Tiny embryos and fetus'. I never fully realized how developed a 9 week fetus was...amazing. It was hard to see the 23-32 week babies (I have to say baby not fetus). How anyone could believe in abortion is beyond me.
-Seeing diseased organs and bodies. Black smokers lung, brain tumor, severe arthritis, artificial hips still in the body, deformed spine...all amazing and so enlightening.
-The huge camel...soo cool!
-Andrew and Josh got to hold a human heart. Notice their faces in the photo...I absolutely loved their looks of wonder. We also got to play around w/ a microscopic camera...so cool to see your skin so close. You could even see the small flaws in my diamond!
-We couldn't help but think about who these people were. What was there life like? What did they look like? We happily speculated about one body in particular; we concluded she was old and that her body had probably never been able to stretch and move as they had her displayed. I can't help but think she thinks its pretty cool, too.
-Loved the little Leonardo-esque notebooks. (Rachel...totally seems like a little touch you would have done and I wondered if you'd suggested it to your dad! lol) The kids took notes and sketched pictures of what they saw.

A few thoughts about the exhibit. It was very quiet...almost reverent. I had the feeling that everyone there felt only awe and respect for A) the people who donated their bodies and B) the miraculous body itself.

While this gave me a look at the body I've never had before and increased my wonder for it's complexity, I couldn't help but feel a great sense of awe for our spirits. Looking at these bodies was incredible...our bodies are amazing and beautiful, but I feel that it is truly our spirits that make our bodies amazing and beautiful...it's our spirits that bring these bodies to life. I'm sure you're thinking, "duh," but it really is incredible to think of how they work together. I gained a greater appreciation for the body, but it also increased my testimony our spirits...our soul. I really hope if you have the chance to see this you will go. Let me know what you thought...I'd love to hear others insights and feelings.

So my friend, Greg, issued a challenge to have lunch somewhere different. (you can read about it here) Now he currently lives in Switzerland....and I live in Utah. Hmm....you tell me which one is more exciting. But, that's just the point of his challenge. Take advantage of what you have where you are. So this morning as I was getting ready go to my local Holiday gas station to get my "freshie" (a fresh soda from the fountain) I thought of Greg's challenge and I decided to indulge his request.

Jenna and I drove to Chick-fil-a, grabbed some lunch and headed to the park. Yea, I know, it's not the Alps, but, it is the Wasatch Mountains. (see....it's all how you look at it, eh?) So there we were, just the two of us enjoying this almost-fall-day, at the park, surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Utah.

As I'm sitting there, I realize that my days as a mom-at-the-park-with-little-ones is limited. In other words, my kids are getting big and I'm getting old (and big). I observed a young mom there with two little boys. What? Wasn't that just me with Josh and Andrew? I swear it was.

Jenna and I just hung out for bit. Climbing, playing, swinging. She loved it all. It totally cracked me up when she curiously looked at the "Vita Course" signs on the track and began imitating the moves. My favorite moment was when we were swinging side by side and Jenna happily says, "We together mom." Yea, we were together on the swing, but my heart swelled a bit at the thought that we were together. So in that moment, I enjoy that I'm at the park, with Jenna and not at home eating our typical lunch of Top Ramen. So thank you Greg for issuing the "lunch break challenge" and I in turn, challenge YOU to make your lunch special.

**LOL I just noticed I spelled "Chick-fil-a" wrong...and I'm not going back through Photoshop to fix it. Sorry!

Esprit, Osh Kosh and Tony Hawk

We've been getting ready for today for sometime now. Still, it's caused me to reflect and feel a number of emotions. I've actually held it together very well...it's seems so strange that this day has arrived for Josh. After all, didn't I just have my first day of 7th grade? As Josh planned his "first day of school outfit" I instantly remember carefully planning my "first day of school outift." Josh wore his cool Tony Hawk t-shirt, plaid shorts and black converse. I wore a blue Esprit ensemble, complete w/ the matching vest (and the top button all buttoned up). Remember how cool Esprit was? Josh took his schedule to his room last night; I'm sure to review and memorize where and when all his classes were. I remember having the same anxiety.

Then, I quickly get over how fast it's all gone for me and I focus on how quickly it is going for Josh. (This is where I start to get a bit emotional) Seriously, it was just yesterday I was able to shop for him at Carter's, Baby Gap and Osh Kosh. You will notice the book in the above photo. This book was purchased at the Osh Kosh store in Castle Rock. I remember thinking how cute it was that Josh was starting school and there was a perfect little book to go along with his new beginning. I can't help but notice how big his belt was on his first day of kindergarten photo...so cute flapping out like that. Now, his feet are bigger than mine. Wasn't he just obsessed with Hot Wheels and dinosaurs? Now, it's music, games and sports. I feel anxious, worried, down right freaked out and excited for what lies ahead for him. The day has come, I hope my seat belt is tightened and we are all ready for this ride: jr. high, pimples, arm pit hair, girls, grades, peer pressure and before I blink an eye he will be gone.

You know when you shouldn't laugh....

...but you just can't help yourself??

I guess I'm immature, naive and yes, uneducated when it comes to

"Olympic Walking."

But, Chad and I just couldn't help chuckling. Wow, there's a whole lot of hip swaying, knee knocking, foot rolling fun going on in that there sport.

What about the new trampoline event? ( I just thought trampolines were for playing "Charlie's Angels" and "Don't crack the egg" on when you were 10yrs old)
Or the ping pong (oh, I mean table tennis).

I'll admit we had a little smirk of disbelief on our face while at the same time we were trying to earnestly appreciate their talent and efforts in training for their chosen, nontraditional sport. All the while, I can't help but think, "Really, people train for that?" I don't mean that as smug as it may sound....I honestly just didn't realize there were serious training programs for such events. I guess it's just not something I think about until the Olympics roll around every couple of years.

So let me eat my words.

As I sat on my fat rear end chuckling at the women speed walkers, it took me about 2 1/2 seconds to realize they looked 1000x better than I ever could with my weak exercise regimen. Seriously, they had flat tummy's and legs that I was very envious of. (Oh and yes, I am a little more educated in this sport now. Did you know one foot must be touching the ground at all times?)

And without a doubt, those guys playing ping pong (um, I mean table tennis) are in great shape to do what they do.

As are the girls playing "Don't crack the egg."

I love the Olympics, don't you? :)

Unpopular opinion...

I didn't care for it. I went in with a positive attitude and came out with a big headache. It's been getting such rave reviews and everyone I talked to loved it...I just didn't get it. What did I miss? Didn't it seem a little long? I will give the late Heath Ledger credit for an awesomely disturbing performance. I won't mention the rating and the number of young children present. Best part of the night? My date! :)

Did I mention I love Spring?

The new blossoms and colors of Spring make me sooo happy! I walked into a store the other day and seeing all the spring colors just made me want to giggle with glee. Here are some blossoms from my cute miniture apple tree in my front yard. Hope they bring a smile to your face like they do mine.