Le Musings of Moi

have you ever tried vaseline?

2010-03-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

And so begins another embarrassing story.

Only this time, my youngest sister had the honor of this fun lil conversation.

So, this is the text message that I got from her the other night at 10:30:

~~~~~~~

Have to tell you a funny story!!

At work (Starbucks) there's a guy -

he's hilarious,

32,

just got married and just became a believer....

so we chat a lot at work since we have a lot in common.

Tonight, he leaned over and asked me,

"Have you ever tried Vaseline???"

I turned bright red and my mind went racing -

how do I answer???

So I asked,

"For what?"

He goes,

"For anything!"

I go,

"Vaseline???"

And then he said,

"NO!!!!

Fasting!!!!"

~~~~~~~

Can you say AWKWARD???

I seriously laughed so hard that I had tears streaming down my cheeks.

Not sure what it is about my sisters and their sex talk,

but it definitely makes amazing blog material!

And after an emotional week

(ahem, two weeks, but who's counting?)

I thought we could all use a lil cheering up, right?

Thanks B-dogg!

~~~~~~~

If you're following along with the 21 day challenge to a better you,

todays challenge is up!

silence is golden

2010-03-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

{via}

I know you are there.

I know you are here,

reading and watching and paying attention.

And yes, I have read your words.

I've said my own words,

and I wish you the best....

But now, I have nothing else to say.

Sometimes saying nothing,

is loaded with so much more than anything we could ever choose to say.

Sometimes,

I believe,

it's the silence we should choose more often.

I do not stay silent to be cruel.

Or to make you feel bad.

I stay silent,

because it's the best thing to do.

It's just time to say goodbye to the past.

Because what is here and now is too good to look away from.

You have to understand,

I have something amazing here.

And with these final words....

again,

I wish you the best.

~~~~~~~

If you're following along with the 21 day challenge to a better you,

todays challenge is up!

it's the last week

2010-03-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

Almost three weeks ago I started the Personal Challenge: 21 days to a better you....

and now we are one week from the end.

While some challenges I've done better at than others,

overall,

it's been the journey that has taught me the most.

What about you?

You doing it too?

Maybe just a day here, a day there?

Just thinking about it?

I know that change is scary,

and sometimes we think we're doing jeeeeessssst fine where we are.

But whenever you do decide that maybe, just maybe, it could be time for growth...

know it's never too late.

Today's challenge is up by the way.

{no monday muse today....the dang rain ruined all chances of a photo shoot!}

it's a new day with new stuff

2010-03-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, a new day of a new week.

Doesn't it feel great?

So, I'm taking the day off from the computer.

THE ENTIRE DAY.

I think I need to reboot and recharge, ya know?

Anyway, with it being a new week and all make sure you check out, you know, what's new.

New quote of the week

New blog crush of le week

New challenge for the day

Hope you all are enjoying your weekends!

Mwa!

sometimes life is hard

2010-03-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Let me just warn you before I go on,

this isn't the brightest of posts so if you want to smell roses....skip ahead to the end.

There's something sweet for you there.

~~~~~~~

I think I cried at least once every day last week.

And while yes, I am SURE pms played a big part....

I think a lot of it has to do with all this change and challenge

(life testing my lessons)

along with my life all being all up in the air.

Cause see, I'm not so good when things are all out of sorts.

Okay, so first of all I have been emotionally hit in a profound way by this murder that happened within a mile of my home.

And knowing that the killer lived just a block away has me wondering now who is to be trusted and who isn't.

My heart has truly ached for the poor girl and her family, and I honestly feel such intense anger for the man who caused all this to happen.

I can't begin to explain the tears I've cried, as I didn't know her, but there isn't one person in our entire community that hasn't been affected.

Along with that, we are trying to make decisions regarding our living situation.

We moved to this apartment almost a year ago to save money for a down payment on a house. While we've been diligent with that, we are seeing (and being told by our agent) that it's STILL not the best time to buy.

At least here in SoCal.

So.

Our dilemma is, do we stay in this little place while we wait out the market,

or do we go back to renting a house so that we have a little more room to move?

Oh, and park.

Because the parking situation here may just give Jimmy an early heart attack.

Not to add to the rush or anything, but Tay starts Kindergarten in the fall, so I'd like to make a decision and stick with it soon so that we know where to enroll him.

And I'd really rather not uproot him in the middle of the school year if we don't have to.

Ya know?

So ya, no pressure there.

And then there's the foster situation.

My heart aches for this child and both Jimmy and I really believed that God put him on our hearts to have him stay here.

And yet, the process is taking FOREVER....

It's especially frustrating because there was an emergency foster option that they didn't take advantage of where they could have placed him within days,

and just NOW they are saying....

"Hmmm, that would have been a faster option."

Ya, maybe?

I mean, I know they are doing the best they can, but I just wish it was faster.

It's sad because while the place he is in now may not be ideal,

he has adjusted to it and even bonded with one of the kids,

so now it's just another adjustment he'll have to make again in this whole ordeal.

{Even though, I believe it will be worth it in the long run for his sake!}

So the day to day wondering with that whole thing has got me craving sweets and breaking out all at once.

It would just be nice to have some closure to this one way or the other.

I like closure.

I'm really starting to realize that about myself.

I most definitely don't do well without it.

And because I feel like I'm really on a roll complaining here....

let me just tell you that Chloe seems to be going through her terrible two's at fifteen months.

Is that possible???

What's next?

PMS at three?

Ay yai yai.

{or is it ay yi yi? Or maybe even aye aye aye?}

So last night I went to my journal to really let loose,

and I noticed that I had written on the previous entry....

------> {Here's the something sweet...} <------

"Make the conscious choice to move the attention of your anxious heart away from the waves and direct it to the One who walks on them and says,

'It's me. Don't be afraid.'

Look at Him and say,

'Lord, have mercy.'

Say it again and again,

not anxiously but with confidence that He is very close to you and will put your soul at rest"

~Henri Nouwen

Words to live by, right?

I kinda love that....

Shift your attention away from the waves and instead to the One who walks on them.

I need to recite that one over and over in the following weeks for sure.

And just to be clear, I'm not writing this all out for sympathy or sweet comments...

I just felt like I wanted to be truly honest with where I'm at right now.

Because while I try to be positive and make the best of things,

sometimes life just isn't that way.

Sometimes life is just hard, and venting is necessary.

And now, I will look away from waves.....

~~~~~~~

If you're following along with the 21 days to a better you challenge,

today's challenge

is up!

And don't forget to link up if you're doing it too!

It's never too late to start!

Speaking of....I need more challenge ideas for next week!

Email me soon or leave them in the comments.

ONE MORE WEEK TO GO!

fashion friday

2010-03-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Jimmy had worship practice tonight and couldn't take on his usual duties of fashion photographer, so alas, I went to the next best thing.

Actually THE best thing!

My sweet (and ever so whiny these days) Chloe Hope....

{thrift shopping with mama, she found herself some necklaces and sunnies. all of which came home with us.}

{wearing her thrifted authentic Burberry dress in style}

{rockin' the chuck taylors and leg warmers}

Girls got style, right?

I think her mama may have something to do with that.

Ya know, so I've heard.

~~~~~~~

Okay soooo...you guys!!!!

Thanks a bajillion for the sweet encouragement yesterday.

Honestly, I'll never get over how amazing you all are.

{even you, who wants to nitpick my blog in the comments that I refuse to publish.}

Up this weekend:

~Finally make a decision on bunk beds because I'm pretty sure we'll be getting a third child VERY soon!

~Also finally making a decision on that dang monogram necklace.

I may actually give Jimmy my two choices and have him surprise me.

Or not.

Because I don't want to be mad at him later.

Hope you plan to have as much fun as me.

lol

~~~~~~~

If you're following along with the 21 days to a better you challenge,

today's challenge

is up!

And don't forget to link up if you're doing it too!

It's never too late to start!

{Is ANYONE still hangin' in there with this?}

she works hard for her money

2010-03-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

You guys, I am liter-ally DROWING in life over here.

I mean, it's like, ba-na-na's.

And you know what happens when life get's crrrrazy?

Um....the blog life takes a backseat.

I know, I know.

I kinda suck.

But, dang it if I can't master time management!!!!

Someone needs to teach me

b-cuz,

I am THE WORST.

I think the hardest part is that I work from home most of the time,

and when there are kids whining and crying and yelling,

"MOM! I'm ready to be wiped!!!!"

It's kinda hard to stay focused.

And then when I finally do sit down to work,

your blogs lure me away from the tasks at hand.

Annnnnd maybe Forever 21.com as well.

Keepin' it real.

And then there's the emails...

woah the emails.

I think in my inbox I have, um, 170+ that I need to go through.

I know, I know...

I'm kind of important.

People know me.

It's a blessing and a curse I tell ya.

Anyway, these days though...

I gotta stay focused.

Because I got some BIG stuff going on,

and with the possibility of fostering coming soon,

I definitely need to get caught up before he gets here.

And because I want ya'll

(so wish I was southern....which reminds me, I have a joke to vlog one day! remind me.)

to take sympathy* on me,

let me just run down that list for ya.

*Sympathy cards and gifts are, of course, always welcome!

Okay, here's what I have going on:

~ Personal Assistant

Part time I work from home for a business owner on little projects here and there.

~ Interior Designer

I'm helping to decorate a commercial office interior.

And I'm not talking a little office space.

I'm talking BIG office building!

I LOVE a challenge though, so I'm all over it.

~ Art director

I'm working on a short film being made,

getting to do all the costumes and help with set design.

The film is being shot the first week of April...

so I gotta get moving.

~ Event Coordinator

And then I'm working on revamping the marketing for HurryDate so my events will be PACKED.

This dang economy is messing with my mad marketing skills,

and now I just gotta get like,

MAD creative all up in here.

Shoooot foooooos.

~ Home Manager

And then you have being a mom, wife, and trying to keep up on dishes and laundry.

Who am I kidding?

I don't keep up.

In fact, what is this laundry and dishes some of you speak of?

~ Writer/Blogger

And of course, we have le blog.

Which I love and adore, and I need to find SOME time for,

or I may just die.

And actually, as of late,

I've been writing and scheduling posts for the week ahead,

because daily posting just ain't gonna happen.

Not if you want me to brush my teeth, I mean.

Oh. My. Word.

Seriously?

Are you feeling the badness for me at this exact moment in time?

I know, I know....

Don't you want to send gifts and cards?

So, hopefully you'll forgive in the next week-ish,

as I may not be THE BEST I've ever been at responding to emails and comments.

But, as soon as I attack this "mad lady what did I take on list,"

I will be back in Full Force.

FF in effect.

And then your blog stats better just watch their backs,

because I will bust them up so high,

they won't even know what hit them.

Awwwww yeeeeahhhh.

~~~~~~~

If you're following along with the 21 days to a better you challenge,

today's challenge

is up!

And don't forget to link up if you're doing it too!

It's never too late to start!

the difference between a bone and a screw

2010-03-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I got my nose pierced um....say, 10 years ago right?

So, here's a little story about how BRILLIANT I really am.

About a month after I I got it pierced, I decided it was safe to take out the "starter" nose ring.

So, I went to buy a new bling bling one and they offered me something that looked a little like this.

{it's called a nose BONE.}

And let me just tell you, that the skies of heaven opened up about to take me home every dang time I had to put one in.

And I'm not even kidding you right now.

NOT EVEN.

Before Jimmy came into my life,

I had to deal with this madness all on my own.

And sometimes it would take HOURS to find the bravery just to yank it out.

And then another few freaking HOURS to shove one back in.

And in those hours there would be cold wet washcloths and anxiety poo,

because it was THAT TRAUMATIC.

Again.

Not even lying one bit.

Later in life,

once Jimmy came around and had the chance to witness the INSANITY that was changing my nose ring,

being a man,

he offered to help.

First,

I made him use a tool to CUT the top part off,

so I wouldn't have to go through the hell of pulling that retarded knob through a hole it wasn't intended to fit through.

{that's what she said.}

So that helped somewhat.

Except that it kinda ruins the chance of ever wearing THAT nose bone again.

But whatever, it worked.

And then came putting in the new one.

Here's the routine:

First I must find a cold bathroom floor,

because the heat that goes through my body when I'm about to die,

is kind of insane.

And then Jimmy has to kneel beside me,

and while I close my eyes shut and squeeze my hands together....

He attempts to shove it through.

Only the last time, it didn't go all the way through.

It was midway.

Pergatory, if you will.

And I wanted to KILL him.

Ish.

Back to the cold hard bathroom floor I went,

while finally he found a way to break through to the other side.

But, it doesn't end there.

Because I am dramatic and all,

(some would say),

I then feel the darkness creep over my eyesight,

and I must lie still before moving or I could just very well pass the eff out.

It's happened.

Cough, tattoo and losing my boo, cough.

And after the last time,

I was like,

I will DIE with this nose bone because I will NEVER go through that again.

Two weeks later,

the "diamond" fell out.

So Jimmy whipped out his pliers,

and off I headed to the tat shoppe.

Here's where I display my BRILLANCE....

After asking the piercer for a new bone,

{that's what she said}

he gave me a funny look and said,

"We don't carry those in the shoppe, as most people hate them because they hurt so bad."

And I was all,

"Um, you mean there is something else you can use?"

And he was all,

"Um, yes....we twist the post so that it goes up your nose and stays in. That way it doesn't hurt at all going in and out.

{that's what he said?}

{it's called a nose screw}

And I was all,

"So you mean, those just aren't for piercing?

Because I had that when I first got pierced TEN years ago, but I thought that was just the starter one, and now I have to now use these."

And he was all,

"Ya, you're dumb."

Not really, but seriously, he thought it.

I thought it!!!

And so he measured my nose,

twisted my nose ring,

and popped that sucker in no problem.

Not wet washcloths.

No cussing.

No passing out.

No near death experience.

A few weeks later I ask around to my other nose pierced sista's...

and what do you know?

Not a single one thought they HAD to use a nose bone.

And so,

the moral of the story is:

If you have your nose pierced...

and you're not a fan of pain,

do not,

I repeat...

DO NOT,

use a nose bone.

Because there is a difference between a bone and a screw.

{that's what she/he said}

The end.

If you're following along with the 21 days to a better you challenge,

today's challenge

is up!

And don't forget to link up if you're doing it too!

It's never too late to start!

my name is summer and i'm an emotional eater

2010-03-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

{via}

Sometimes I think 45 minutes is a joke when it comes to therapy.

Because seriously, my issues far exceed that time frame.

And now, since "giving up" sugar and gluten....

I have realized I have yet ANOTHER PROBLEM.

Hi.

I'm Summer and I'm an emotional eater.

Or in punk rock speak,

an emo-e.

Seriously,

I am all fine and dandy going without until I have an emotion.

And usually it's attached to a bad one.

For example,

a toddler who refuses to nap brings up bad emotions.

And therefore,

I head to the kitchen because I need a hug.

A hug from that yummy yummy sweet gluten-ey thing that will make everything better for AT LEAST the next hour or so.

And then when a certain 4 year old makes me repeat the same dang thing 10 times over in less than 30 seconds,

once again....bad emotions...

Yet it's nothing a hug wouldn't fix.

Just give me some of that amazing sugary sweetness.

Comfort foods,

I've come to realize,

are my little hugs throughout the day,

and obviously I don't know quite how to function without them.

What can I say?

I'm a hugger.

And so,

now to my body issues, mommy issues, daddy issues, teenager angst issues,

and being hard on myself issues,

I can now add,

emotional eating issues.

Man, I love learning more about myself.

IT'S SO MUCH FUN.

But, enough about me and my ish's,

what about you guys?

Are you an emo-e,

or is it just me and Oprah standing up here all by our lonesomes?

And however can we heal it???

Because remember,

it's not what we're eating....

it's what is eating us.

Free therapy right there for ya.

I paid for it, so I could pass it on.

Your turn.

~~~~~~~

If you're following along with the 21 days to a better you challenge,

today's challenge

is up!

And don't forget to link up if you're doing it too!

It's never too late to start!

monday muse fashion

2010-03-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

{le outfit: top ~ vintage, jeans ~ Roxy, shoes ~ steve madden girl, bangles ~ walmart, watch ~ la mer, necklace ~ wet seal, ring ~ f21, sunnies ~ dziner eyes}

I'm so having a moment with this top.

I found it a couple weeks ago at my thrift store,

and it's so way vintage that you can't even read the tag.

What I love is that it's so old lady and yet so chic at the same time!

Ahhhh, I just love finding these one of a kind treasures, ya know?

As for the jeans, not so much having a moment with those now that I see the pictures.

Don't ya just hate when you think you have it going on, only later to find out, nasomuch?

Ya, nasomuch.

My legs look thick.

And I'm not a fan.

Thank the good Lord for the cropping tool.

Gotta love it.

Let's analyze, shall we?

I think because the jeans are so long I may have needed higher heels to elongate my legs.

Ya, that's definitely the problem.

It's the jeans fault.

It so has nothing to do with my stubby legs.

Yup, I blame the jeans.

Glad we worked that out.

~~~~~~~

By the way, there are more important things going on than my issues with this outfit.

You see those mountains in the background of my pictures?

Well, way back there are some trails and a lake that a lot of people hike and run on around here.

And just last Thursday, a 17 year old girl went missing in BROAD DAYLIGHT.

So, for the last 4 days there has been several helicopters day and night circling the area,

along with several hundred volunteers combing the trails in search of this girl, Chelsea King.

It is absolutely heartbreaking, and it's all I can do not to cry every time I think about what the parents are going through....what Chelsea has gone through.

We are constantly praying that she is found safe and sound,

and that the person who has done this is caught.

It is just crazy that it's not even safe to run in broad daylight anymore.

Anyway....keep them in your prayers.

{If you're following along with the 21 days to a better you challenge,

today's challenge is up!

And don't forget to link up if you're doing it too! It's never too late to start!}

new stuff for the new week

2010-02-28T08:27:00.000-08:00

It's Sunday, the beginning of the week, so of course I have new stuff going on!

I have a new blog crush.

I have a new inspirational quote for the week.

And I have a new challenge for the day.

Also, Julie from Brown Eyed Belle tagged me in this lil photo thing....

and since I have the cutest picture to show, I figured why the heck not???

Instructions:

Go to the first folder, find the 10th picture, and then tell the story behind it.

Little Tay eating his first strawberry.

Ahhh, those were the good ol' days before the NON STOP talking.

Good times.

Happy Sunday loves.

update on 21 days to a better you (me)

2010-02-27T07:37:00.000-08:00

I thought I would write a little update on the first week of the challenge...

cause, um, it's been quite the week!

I've always said that anybody who chooses to set lofty goals for themselves,

better be careful....

because life just has a way of testing those goals in every single way.

I had the pleasure of experiencing that myself this last week.

Call it PMS,

call it a test of my goals....

Whatever it was, I was not a fan.

But then again, once I stopped and tried to see the lesson,

maybe it wasn't all that bad after all.

See?

I'm growing already.

Here's what I learned about myself in the first week of the challenges:

~ Eating sweets is like a hug on an emotional day....

and when I'm having one and am not allowing sweets, beware of tears.

Lots of them.

~ I have an unhealthy addiction to my phone.

And when it decides to die for good a month after the toilet drop,

I can quickly turn from a "positive look at my blessings" girl, to a big ol grumpy bratty girl.

~ Speaking of brat, I can be one quite often.

Huh.

~ I am extremely hard on myself, and expect perfection at all times.

And when I fail,

because, brace yourself, I do...

I will get really down on myself and feel like a total failure.

~ I'm not one for Twittering much,

except on the day I'm not supposed to Twitter.

And then all of a sudden, I have a million things to tweet.

~ That I kinda LOVE the blessings journal, and I think I'm going to start making a daily habit of that.

It just made SUCH a difference in my day and my mood.

Um, until my phone broke.

{details, details.}

But the biggest thing I learned?

That this challenge...

or any attempt to better myself...

is not about perfection.

It's about doing my best.

It's about allowing the same grace and mercy I have no problem extending to others,

to myself on the days I don't quite measure up.

And then picking myself up in the next day,

the next hour,

or even the next minute,

and trying my best once again.

It was a rough week,

but that's usually when we see the most growth, isn't it?

I thought I would grow from accomplishing the challenges....

instead I grew from falling short.

Hopefully though...

next week will bring some of it's own mercy and grace

so I can take a moment and catch my breath!

Also,

I have to say.

My biggest blessing of all,

was every single one of you guys that have followed along and joined in.

Reading about your own journey and progress has been amazing!

Just another reason, that I LOVE this little community on le blog.

Enjoy your weekend loves,

and don't forget to check today's challenge!

fashion friday ~ eye candy

2010-02-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

I thought it was about time you guys got to see the man behind the lens on these Fashion Fridays.

So, instead of dolling myself up today, I decided to grab my man as he walked in the door and put him to work.

And now,

for your viewing pleasure....

I present....

Fashion Friday Eye Candy:

{le outfit: all courtesy of Ross & Marshalls. gotta love a man that looks this hot on a budget!}

I know, what a good sport, huh?

He told me later he was channeling his inner Brad Pitt.

You can totally tell, right?

~~~~~~~

{If you're following along with the 21 days to a better you challenge,

today's challenge is up!

And don't forget to link up if you're doing it too!}

peeling the onion, one layer at a time

2010-02-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

{via}

Ever heard something so profound that out of nowhere a light switch goes on,

and you suddenly can see the past, present, and even the future differently?

Someone recently brought to light something that seems so simple, so obvious...

and even something that has been stated to me in another way before...

and yet it took hearing her words to make me see.

And now I kinda get why I did some of the things I've done.

Why I choose to do some of the things I do.

And why I have dreams of my future being a certain way.

I kinda get it.

Just kinda.

And yet, it's just one layer being peeled away.

Ouch.

Just one???

I know there's more.

And while it stings ever so slightly to see the truth,

I can see that there underneath it all lies a clearer path.

A lighter heart.

A happier soul.

And so I'll take this pain.

I'll cry these tears.

Because I want better.

So, peel away.

~~~~~~~

{If you're following along with the 21 days to a better you challenge,

today's challenge is up!

And don't forget to link up if you're doing it too!}

dark side & tattoos

2010-02-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

considering....

{another tattoo...something floral around the tree}

{going dark....perhaps after summer}

I dunno,

just some thoughts.

{If you're following along with the 21 days to a better you challenge,

today's challenge is up!

And don't forget to link up!}

{this has been a part of wordful wednesday}

are you doing the challenge? link here!

2010-02-23T11:24:00.000-08:00

Are you following along in the challenge, 21 days to a better you?

If so, I just added a Mr Linky here,

so that you can add in your blog name and link,

this way we all know where to go for inspiration and accountability!

It's never too late to start, and it's never too late to link up!

I'll be leaving this page up indefinitely so that anytime, anywhere,

people can start making a change.

And remember, check back here every night for your next days challenge!

Mwa!

these are a few of my favorite things

2010-02-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's time for yet another edition of my favorite things that you must have and love as well.

Sacred Marriage

Now this is for all you married people out there,

or even for you singles who would like to one day be married.

I kid you not, this book has changed my entire view on marriage....in a good way.

And I want EVERYONE to read it.

There will be a test.

So study up.

~~~~~~~

Organize Now!

One of my goals for this year was to finally get organized.

I do an okay job, but I needed ideas and ways to get even more efficient.

And then I found this little gem.

For just $10, I now own this adorable book, and what's great is it's broken up into a week by week guide so it's not so overwhelming!

Honestly, you will LOVE!

~~~~~~~

Rimmel London Lasting Finish (in Airy Fairy)

I did my eyes all up the other night with a smoky look and then I realized I didn't own the perfect shade of nude lipstick to go with it.

So off I ran to Target to find something worthy of my lips.

What I found, I loved, and within hours I had my sister at her nearest Walgreens to buy it as well.

It's creamy and lovely....

and most importantly,

it doesn't have that awful lipstick smell/taste.

~~~~~~~

Yes to Carrots face wash

I am super picky when it comes to face wash.

I tend to have sensitive skin,

meaning, Jr High breakouts can easily make their appearance at simply the thought of one wrong product.

But, I went to this women's show awhile back where I received a sample of this face wash,

and OMG.

Fabulous.

My skin was lit-rally glowing.

And what's better is that it doesn't break the bank!

Definitely my new go to product.

~~~~~~~

iBoss

I actually did a post a long time ago about this incredible invention that has totally made me feel safe about having Taylor (and Jimmy) on the computer when I'm not around.

No kidding, this is THE BEST thing out there.

Here's a little blurp I found on their website:

The iBoss™ Home combines the best in Internet Parental Controls with a powerful built-in Wireless-N Firewall Router to bring you the ultimate in home network protection for your family. The iBoss™ Home allows you to share your Internet connection safely at home with all of your wired and wireless computers while providing powerful Internet filtering technology that puts you in control of your Children's activities on the Internet. Flexible parental controls allow you to easily restrict access to specific categories of Internet destinations and manage your Children's time spent using online programs (online chat and messenger programs, file sharing, gaming and more). Different filtering rules can be setup for different computers. The iBoss™ Home generates detailed reports on Internet activity which can be viewed and automatically E-mailed. Unlike software solutions, one device guards an entire network and makes tampering difficult. Works with Mac, Windows and Linux. Little computer experience is needed!

Key Features

	Easily Block Websites by Category	Same Protection Used by Fortune 500 Co.

	Block Chat, Gaming and more	Built-In Wireless-N Firewall Router

	Schedule Internet Access Times	1 Unit = Protection For All Computers

	Monitor & Log Internet Activity	Works with Wired & Wireless Computers

	View Detailed Reports	Absolutely No Software to Install

	Automatic E-mail Notifications	Simple User-Friendly Interface

	Set Rules for Different Children	Plug & Play

Benefits

· Easily Control When and Where Your Children Surf
· Protect Your Children from Online Predators
· Monitor Your Children's Online Activity
· Manage Time Spent Online
· Prevent Viruses & Spyware
· Share Your Internet with Multiple Computers (Wired & Wireless)
· One Device Protects and Manages All Your Computers
· Works with Mac, Windows, and Linux
· Absolutely No Software to Install
· Built-in Firewall Protects Against Online Threats
· Guard Your Children from Inappropriate Content

If you decide to get it,

and you should,

there is a coupon code "family safe" that allows a 10% discount.

Trust me, it's worth every penny.

And no, I was not paid for this...I just love it that much.

~~~~~~~

{via}

{if you're following along with the 21 day challenge to a better you, today's challenge is up!}

monday muse - celebrity blogger style

2010-02-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

The moment I met Heather,

(yes, THE Heather from The Secret is in the Sauce & Mindless Junque),

we immediately felt that we had been sisters separated at birth.

Actually, we felt that way before we even met,

but the moment we ran slow motion into each other arms in Vegas,

it was definitely solidified.

True love forever.

Not only is she effing adorable, but she has THE sweetest heart, and the cutest voice you may have ever heard in your whole daggon life.

She's the complete package people.

And you guys are some lucky folks because she agreed to be your muse for this lovely Monday morning.

Listen up.

And love her.

She's family after all.

~~~~~~~

I have to begin by saying how excited I am to be here!

When Summer asked me to guest post about fashion, I had to giggle a little though because after four kids and the recent budget smackdown in my house I certainly don't feel fashionable.

Luckily, there is one fashion trend that works around my particular couture stumbling blocks.

I'm talking about the boyfriend trend.

Here we have a model wearing a sweet floral sundress.

What categorizes it into the “boyfriend” trend?

Her hat and an oversized jean jacket.

{Photo of Ralph Lauren 2010 Spring/Summer Collection courtesy fashionising.com}

That's all something we can easily do.

A cute pageboy hat is great on those unfortunate hair days.

And you'd be surprised with what you can find at Goodwill.

We could take that dress and pair it with a boyfriend blazer.

{Photo courtesy Chatelaine}

I wouldn't suggest going to the Goodwill and buying a men's suit coat here.

Stores like Forever21 are selling this look for a very reasonable price and you don't want to look like you raided your dad's closet.

The boyfriend blazer is slightly more fitted and still shows off our feminine curves (which is very important).

And don't forget about the boyfriend sweater.

{Photo courtesy JJill.com}

I love this look with a pair of jeans and ballet flats.

A scarf in a springy color or a chunky necklace would be perfect for spring.

Don't shy away from this look for spring.

Have fun with it and be creative.

How often is it cool to wear oversized clothes?

Seize the day, ladies.

Seize the day.

~~~~~~~

{If you're following along on the 21 day challenge, make sure to check the link under my header for today's challenge!}

a personal challenge: 21 days to a better you

2010-02-20T00:00:00.001-08:00

{via}

I love challenges.

They totally get me going and energized and ready for change.

Which is why I came up with this idea for 21 days to a better you.

I'm going to create a little 21 day challenge for myself,

where each day of the 21 days,

I will do or start something that will help and motivate me to be, do, and become better.

I am so ready.

So excited.

And I know in the end it will be a journey worth having taken.

Most of you know that for the most part, I have given up gluten and sugar for an undefined amount of time.

But, I've allowed little cheats here and there.

On this 21 day challenge, I'm giving it up the entire time.

NO CHEATS.

I just feel that for too long, I keep saying....

I'm going to....

Or, I should....

Or, one day....

Well that day is today.

Feb 21.

On this 21st begins my 21 days.

Loooooove it.

Each day I'll add a little blurp of what that days challenge will be,

{look for the link under my header that says, a personal challenge: 21 days to a better you}

just in case anyone wants to follow along or...

maybe even join in with me!

Cause you know, I would so totally be honored to have your company!

And also....

I don't have all 21 days challenges set in stone,

so if you have any suggestions,

I'd love to hear them.

today's challenge:

think of something you are willing to give up for 21 days,

and commit to it once and for all.

write it down.

tell someone so they can help to hold you accountable.

and remember,

it's just for 21 days.

you can do anything for 21 days.

it's the sound....of silence

2010-02-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

When the kids are away,

the parents will play.

Hallelujah!

Tay & Chloe are with their Nana & Papa for the weekend and we are as free as can be.

On our to do list:

~farmers market

~nap

~look at bunk beds for if (when) our foster boy is placed here

~sleep some more

~shop for clothes, because I can and I have no kids.

~maybe sleep some more.

~read a book

I know, I know.

We're wild n crazy.

I may even eat sugar and gluten.

Because I've decided that I am never the girl to say never,

and once a week splurge will do just fine.

This weekend deserves the splurge.

Your plans?

fashion friday

2010-02-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

{dress: A.B.S. ~ thrifted, purse: tj maxx, boots: charlotte russe, watch: la mer, bracelet: le old, necklace: wet seal,

ring: tiffany}

This dress is one my scores from my thrifting on Wednesday.

When I first saw it I was SO excited about the brand...

but then I kinda died over the drop waist and the slouchy sleeves.

It's a tad big for me, but I'll deal since it's so freaking cute.

Plus, it's the most comfy thing ever and it will be the perfect thing when I am having a "fat day."

Anyway....back to my thrifting this week...

I can't believe how much I walked away with and the best part is,

I only spent $30!!!

Got another adorable vintage dress with the most amazing buttons, like, ever.

Two pairs of pants...

one pair of black pinstripe Gap stretch ones that feel like buttah,

and the other, an adorable pair of striped denim jeans from Banana Republic.

{Looks cuter than they sound.}

Then, I scored TWO fab purses for $1.50 each,

and an adorable pair of white shoes with the most amazing cork heels ever...um brand new too.

Ooh, and then there was the way ADORABLE tunic from Coldwater Creek with the original $109 price tag still attached.

Love.

{not my usual brand to love, but still it was too cute!}

And then added to all that were a couple of other cute lil tops that needed to be mine.

I mean....

Could you die?

Now you see why I keep this place a secret.

I'll try to take more pictures of everything to show you guys later.

And this weekend I will even try to take pictures of the clothes for sale.

~~~~~~~

On a non-related note....

We got fingerprinted yesterday to start the process for fostering that little boy I mentioned.

Actually, we got to see him when we went in, and you guys...I almost broke down.

He was so sullen and quiet, and you could tell he was a little scared.

Immediately he and Tay started playing and at one point a toy broke, so Taylor told him it was okay, that maybe his dad could fix it.

And then the little guy looked at Taylor and said,

"I don't have a dad."

And Taylor replied....

"You don't? That's so sad."

Jimmy and I looked at each other and almost burst into tears right there.

Later, when we were praying before bed this was Taylor's prayer:

"Dear Jesus, I just pray that (boys name) would come and live with us,

and if he doesn't that he could live in a good home,

just like we have."

I know, tears, right?

So, I am begging for your prayers over this situation still.

It looks pretty promising that he could end up here,

though nothing is for sure...

but now that I've seen him again,

I am even more in a rush to have him here with us.

Pray for an expedited process....

I believe in the power of prayer.

And I know this little guy is COVERED.

Ya, so fashion and sad story.

How about that for a fashion friday post?

blog + twitter = blitter...& an accidental sext

2010-02-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

~ Having the best week EVER spending three days with one of my favorite girls EVER....

Someone who should have been my BFF in high school had we not been such girls.

Anyway, she was here visiting for a few days, and I was lucky enough to get to host her here in my casa....

SO MUCH FUN!

Yesterday, I took her to my thrift store....and we SCORED.

That's how you know we're serious.

I don't just take anybody there with me.

You have to be special.

And she so totally is.

~ We started a new thing to save our sanity in the house.

It's called "quiet reading hour."

And it's the hour before Taylor's bedtime.

He now "gets" to lay in his bed and read books for 30-40 minutes before bed.

And it's lovely.

Because we get 30-40 minutes of amazing peace and quiet even BEFORE bedtime.

I highly recommend this.

~ Kind of loving my new workout so much that I'm thinking of doing another video to teach you all....if you want.

You want?

~ I really want to list my clothes on le blog.

In fact, I have them all hanging on a hook ready for pictures, and I just can't seem to take the pictures.

Lazy much?

I've got no motivation, where is my motivation....

{it went with the sugar....}

~ Really seriously considering the switch to wordpress.

I think it could be time.

The only thing holding me back is this AMAZING design that Stephanie has created for me.

I'm doing my best to see if I can work a way to keep it as CLOSE as possible and still be on wordpress.

Wish me luck.

I'm scared.

Hold me.

~ Kind of over these DANG spammers on my comments.

Not such a fan of having to moderate each and every one every single freking day.

I mean, if I have to read one more time about some guys girlfriend who cheated and how he wants to show off pictures or something to get back at her,

I may just....

um,

well, I don't know, but it won't be pretty.

Seriously, do these people actually find success in attempting these comments?

Annoyance.

~ On a lighter note....let's talk about sexting.

Can't stop laughing at another one of my sisters embarrassing stories.

{hubba hubba}

So, we had been texting back and forth about sex....

who schedules it and who doesn't....

Long story.

{Um....Awkward.}

Anyway, in between our texts I guess she was texting with a realtor guy that she works with for her staging business as well.

All of a sudden, she gets a text from him that simply says, "How?"

It didn't quite go with what they had been texting about so she looks back to see what he was responding to.

And that's when she realizes she had sent him, instead of me, the following text:

"So, how do you know if it's a sex night?"

The funny thing is,

he thought she was out of the blue telling him a sex joke,

so he texts back,

"how?"

Seriously. Hilarious.

Poor guy is texting business when my out of the blue my hot sister suddenly switches to sex chat.

I'm dying.

If you're not laughing, then....guess you had to be there.

Sorry.

But, I pee a little every time I think about it.

On that note....gotta go change my undies.

KIDDING.

ish.

{and that last blitter was a part of Mama Kat's Writers Workshop....an entertaining string of texts. Yes, I changed it up.}

she's kind of like having a dog

2010-02-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

{our beloved dog Bradley...who has a new home where he can be the only child like he was meant to be}

I swear, Chloe is not the same kind of toddler that Taylor was.

Night and day really.

But I guess, either way, it's not all that easy.

It's just that with Chloe,

and I'm sure she'll love this when she gets older,

it's more like having a dog rather than a toddler.

For example:

Every time the door opens I have to yell:

"Close the door quick, or you're going to let the Chloe out!"

Because really, she will BOOK IT, the second she gets a chance.

And she'll only look back to flash you a devilish grin that says, see ya later suckers.

Or...

How she loves to put EVERYTHING in her mouth and then the second you go to get it out,

she runs away with a smile....as though she is playing a fun little game with you.

At times, I swear when I'm pulling whatever it may be out,

she shakes her head back and forth really fast with a little growl.

I think.

I can't be sure.

For a long time, it was shoes. She loved to bite and chew on shoes.

Not even kidding.

Also....

She started out in a high chair for meals.

But everything ended up on the floor instead of her mouth.

Not so fun for me.

Then I thought....life may be easier if I just put her seat on the ground.

So I did.

But still, she couldn't resist the urge to throw it all on the floor.

And then,

being that she's the second kid and all,

I decided to take away the seat all together and simply put the food on the floor, saving time for everyone involved.

And what do you know, she's happy as can be, and she eats every last bite.

{rough, rough}

I'm thinking of investing in some cute little leopard doggie bowls with her name on it....

but I'm not sure how much that will cost me in therapy bills down the road.

And then there's her favorite game.

I throw the ball across the room, and she runs to get it, then brings it back to me.

This can go on for quite some time...

and it is really beneficial to me in those times I want to get some writing done.

She also really loves other dogs.

If she had a tail, it would wag every time she saw one.

So you see....as long as she's a toddler, there really isn't a need for pets.

Because she's kinda like having a dog.

Chloe....I love you.

Please don't be mad at this post when you get older.

Your dad made me write it.

{this has been a part of wordful wednesday}

what is blogging costing you?

2010-02-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

{it's all about balance.}

{via}

I've been blogging for awhile.

I've had an up and down, love/hate relationship with it....

and at times I have really really considered shutting it down.

And not in the good Rachel Zoe way.

In my time here, I have seen some stuff I've been amazed by in a truly incredibly good way,

and then on the other hand,

I've seen some stuff that has shocked me to my core.

Stuff that has truly made me question if I'm meant to be a part of it all.

{You've heard the stories...people pretending to be a mom who'd lost a baby....or things kinda like that...}

Like, woah.

On one hand, my love hand...

I think...

Never in my life have I ever felt so encouraged,

so understood,

so free....

and so LOVED.

How could I ever walk away?

But on the other hand, my hate hand...

I think...

what am I giving up to be a part of this?

What was my life like before writing became a priority?

Maybe I should walk away.

And here's the real thing that divides me....

Sometimes it feels like blogging has become less about writing and connecting and relating....

and more about numbers, stats, comments, and alliances.

I'm not innocent.

I've been lost.

I've seen the glitter and wandered towards it.

I've lusted for more.

For other.

And I've often thought,

IT MUST BE MINE.

But, at what cost?

A child?

A home?

A marriage?

A relationship?

A friendship?

Would you shut it all down to save just one of those things?

After lots of prayer,

I know that for now I am not going anywhere.

I am in LOVE with the community that has been created here on my little blog.

I've been given a small garden to be faithful in,

and I will be here tending to it as best I can.

I just have to remember that it needs to be in addition to.

Not in place of.

It can't cost me life.

Or love.

Or relationships.

Or me.

So, I wonder....

where are you with your blogging journey,

{if you do blog...}

and is it costing you more than you thought?

monday muse - mama kat style

2010-02-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

I've been doing my best to share the spotlight round here....

you know, by inviting other folks with their own kind of fashion sense to come and partake in le fashion posting.

And this week,

I've asked my beloved BSF,

Mama Kat,

to honor us all with her INCREDIBLE fashion style.

While at first she begged me for fashion advice and styling,

I encouragingly told her...

"No no, sweet lil' Mama Kat, you.

Today is the day YOU shine, my love.

You can do it.

You can!

I believe in you..."

And I think my talk worked.

Because this week, she is WORKING it.

Get out your pens and paper and take notes,

because it will take a lot of studying to look this hot.

~~~~~~~

I was extremely flattered when Summer asked me to guest post on her blog. I've always REALLY been into fashion and have considered starting my own fashion blog, but I've been reluctant to jump on the ball with that. I'd feel kind of bad blowing all the other fashion blogs out of the water and to be honest I don't know if I'm ready for that kind of attention. I've heard paparazzi can be difficult to deal with.

Anywhoooo...when it comes to fashion I like to consider myself a little "ahead of the game"..."shabby chic" if you will. Sure comfort is important, but style is too and I think the two can co-exist. The following photos are just pictures of me on an average day.

There's no reason to spend your days looking frumpy and feeling ugly, when you can sex things up a bit. This outfit is girly, form fitting, and flirtatious. I can complete my usual afternoon tasks, such as vacuuming,

blogging,

apple eating,

and thinking,

while looking trendy and feeling cozy!!

What do you wear when you eat apples and blog and vacuum at your house?

~~~~~~~

I know, I know....you want to lick her, huh?

Well get in line folks, I'm first.