Unexpected Surprises

answers..

2012-02-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

The last post was a little depressing.

I just wanted to update you, but I feel like this blog isn't where I want to do that.

I think I need to keep this blog as my journal for my son, for me, for happy stuff.

I am going to start journaling as well as keeping in touch with other women in my similar situation.

If you would like to start reading about a new (not so much fun...) journey that I am on you may check it out at My Life on the Other Side..

I also hope to start blogging some of the stuff I have missed recently. I really miss the support and friendship I had through all of you! Hope to stop by and say hi again, real soon!

the wreckage.

2011-12-08T08:23:00.000-08:00

How perfect life seemed just over a month ago.

Now things are different.

Every things different.

I wish I could blog about what is happening in my life, but I have been forbidden.

Forbidden to release all the secrets and pain in my heart.

I am not even able to call and tell my own mother.

My heart aches to release everything.

My mind goes millions of miles an hour before finally giving out and allowing me to pass out at night.

I sometimes wonder if life will ever be normal again.

If I'll ever be able to forget those images.

That panic that rose in my chest.

The tears that streamed down my face.

The scream that pulled at my lips.

Life goes on.

This I know is true.

I have managed for the past 24 years, and I will manage again.

I am strong.

Mostly because I have to be.

Today I try to ease myself into a normal routine.

Pretend to go about my life.

Pretend that at any moment the ball may drop.

That my act will be over.

That everyone will know.

And so I pray.

I sit here, with my fingers tapping on the keys, and pray.

Pray that God can heal all that has happened.

That once again I can forgive.

That my family will be okay.

But mostly I pray that God has brought us to our knees.

That he changes my family.

That he becomes the center.

That the pieces of my life fall where they may,

and that God creates beauty in the wake of my disaster.

That this wreckage isn't in vain.

This I pray.

This is why I love fall..

2011-10-06T16:17:00.000-07:00

:) The colors, the weather, the fun!

Happy Fall Ya'll!

My little Diva

2011-10-06T15:09:00.000-07:00

My son is very special.

He isn't like other boys.

Well he does like some things that other boys like.

He likes to get dirty.

He likes to catch bugs.

He likes to wrestle.

He likes hunting.

but..

He also loves his care bears.

He loves to sing.

He loves to dance.

He likes to play "daddy".

He LOVES Taylor Swift.

He would LOVE to be in a pageant!

and Yes, he did tell his stylist today that his favorite colors are pink and yellow.

And yes, he pops his hip when he gets his picture taken.

and Yes, he will refuse to wear a pair of jeans because they don't look good...

or he'll change his clothes five times until he looks "cute".

And Yes, today he did pick out a Barbie coloring book.

But you want to know what?

I love him just the way he is.

I'm not going to put him in a box.

I am not going to stunt his creativity.

I'm not going to "label" him.

I'm going to allow him to like what he wants.

I'm not going to convince him to like "blue".

I'm not going to force him to buy the power rangers coloring book.

I'm not going to make him play with GI Joe's.

He is an amazing little boy, and I am so proud of everything about him.

I think he is the amazing little boy that he is, because no one forces him to be something he isn't!

So to my son.. "Aidyn, you do your thing little man! You pop that hip, you flash that smile, and you just keep being the fabulous diva, I know you are!"

Dear BD

2011-09-28T14:05:00.001-07:00

Dear Tony,

How all "this" came to be shocks me.

Sometimes I feel like I need to pinch myself.

I musts be dreaming.

Except this is better then any dream or hope I could ever have made up in my mind.

This isn't anything like the first time.

It is 110% better.

Sometimes when you look at me..

I get these amazing little butterflies.

My stomach does flip flops, and my smile can't seem to fit on my face.

Then there is the way that you wrap your arms around me when I'm standing at the sink.

The same way I'd seen in old fashioned movies.

You nuzzle your head ever so close to my ear.

You whisper something sweet, and kiss me softly, until I giggle and tip my head to meet yours.

In those moments, I couldn't imagine being anywhere else.

Have I mentioned that I find you VERY amusing.

You are quirky, and silly, and funny.

I love that we "get" each other,

and that we both laugh with each other..

and maybe at times, at each other EVERY DAY!

Then of course there is the "daddy" part of you..

Sometimes when I watch you and Aidyn, I feel like the luckiest Mom in the world.

I love when you wrestle with him.

I love when he sits at your side, his little legs curled up beside him, and his head leaning against you.

The way your arms seems to fit perfectly around him, amazes me, since it seems to fit perfectly around me too!

You are pretty amazing in that way.

Then there is the funny voices you use when you tell him stories.

I think I find them more funny then Aidyn does.

Most importantly I love that I can count on you.

You are beyond hardworking, and you help to take care of us in every aspect.

You are the kind of man that I have waited for.

I waited four years for you…

and even though I'm glad I didn't have to…

I would have waited for ever.

You are my soul mate.

You are my best friend.

Thank you for everything you do.

Thank you for being my family!

I love you baby,

Brittany

Aidyn update

2011-09-16T11:27:00.001-07:00

You're looking at one of the newest pre-schoolers in town!

A full blown smartie pants!

Who draws and paints the coolest pictures!

Who can write his own name!

Can spell tons of words, most recently, the word IOWA!

Who loves to dance, pose, sing, and be a total diva!

Who loves to jump on the trampoline, and do karate moves!

Who loves to spend time with his daddy! (esp. when they are wrestling or playing tag!)

Who gives the best kisses in the world, and who is still a complete mama's boy!

Who is still the best little boy around!

Aidyn is doing FANTASTIC!

I was worried about how the move would affect him, but it doesn't even seem to phase him!

He is so resilient!

and brave..

He does miss everyone in Minnesota, but it doesn't seem to be hindering him in any way!

He is just all around a good kid.

Keep in mind that he is still four.. so some days.....

but for the most part, we have no problems, and we really just enjoy our life together!

He is VERY excited about BD and I being together!

He is positive that we will get married, and is already planning on being the ring bearer!

Lets just say I am one lucky mama!

I have one amazing kid, who just keeps getting better with time!

*by the way.. he says HELLO! :)

Relationship updates..

2011-09-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

The real news you want to be updated on.. right?

Well obviously you know that BD and I are back together.

***EEEK***

Things are AMAZING you guys!

It feels so right..

It was a long time coming, but I always knew in my heart that the two of us would be together..

but sometimes it was really really hard to hold out hope.

The thing is, that everything is in Gods timing.

I know that my heart wasn't prepared until now.

I know that I hadn't truly found out who I was until now..

(and maybe I still don't know..)

but I grew.

I grew up, and became a women.

I became a mother.

I took care of myself.

Loved myself.

And guess what..?

When I did that, BD started loving me too!

He realized how strong I was.

He realized how beautiful I was.

He fell in love with me as a mother..

as a women...

and as a friend.

We started talking.

LOTS of talking.

We shared our dreams..

our goals..

our passions..

and realized slowly, that we were on the same path.

That we were assets to each other.

It started slowly..

I worked with him outside...

I helped him clean..

He helped me..

Slowly through these physical acts of kindness, and hard work..

we fell in love again.

Were still falling in love.

It would be a lie if I told you everything was perfect.

We still have the past four years to work through.

We've both said and done very horrible things to each other..

but we have chosen to forgive each other.

I can say without a doubt that I hold no anger or animosity towards him.

I let it go..

and so did he!

There is NO way we could have a fresh start without it!

Forgiveness is a beautiful and refreshing thing.

The difference this go around, is that we have chosen to handle things differently.

We talk, not yell.

We listen.

We take space.

BD and I have chosen to live separately this go around.

I don't know for how long (at least a year..).

We still spend several nights together a week, but it is nice to have some time apart.

At first we didn't want to do that..

but we both realize that its beneficial in the long run.

I can honestly say I have more fun with this man then ever before!

He makes me smile.

He makes me laugh!

He gives amazing back rubs...

The BEST kisses...

and he is one rocking daddy!

If you have followed my blog the last four years, then you know just how far this journey has come!

This was my dream..

and I'm living it…

and i've never been happier!

Thanks for being a part of this journey!

So many of you have encouraged me over the last couple years, and I am so very grateful for that!

So now in this moment of happiness, I hope you're rejoice with me as well!

I am so incredibly excited to see just where this goes!

I hope you'll all stick with me, to find out as well! ;)

*Insert happy sigh, and smile here!

The Move

2011-09-16T09:30:00.001-07:00

I got the job offer in Iowa and two weeks later I was on my way to my new home.

It happened incredibly fast.

A flurry of goodbyes, and packing.

I tried to enjoy it, but for the most part my heart was already in Iowa.

Although BD and I were keeping it "hush-hush" for the time being, we were already "together".

I had waited four years to be with him, and I was so ready to start my life.

He was so helpful during that time.

Always answering my questions, taking all my phone calls, and calming me down when I'd go into a panic.

I bought some new things for my home, and packed everything I owned.

It was real.

It was here.

The day before the move, BD and I had plans to meet a half hour from my home, to pick up a couch and bunk bed set.

BD had a four hour drive, and so when he got close enough, I headed with my Mom, niece, and nephew towards them.

The clouds were dark, and soon hail started flying at the van.

We pulled over at least a half a dozen times.

By the time we made it to the mall, it was a full blown storm.

The sky was so green it almost looked teal.

Moments later while I was filling my cart at Target I got a call from BD saying they had made it.

The sirens were going of, and he told me to come meet him.

I left my entire cart (Amazing.. I know..) and headed towards them.

The malls doors weren't locked, but the security guards were strongly advising people to stay in the mall.

BD found the safest structural wall (he's smart like that) and gave me directions to find him.

As I walked towards him and Aidyn, even in the midst of all that craziness, I knew I was walking towards my home.

After an hour and a half, and a few subway sandwiches later, we were packing up the furniture and heading to get the rest of the stuff.

The next morning we packed almost all I had in an enclosed trailer, and the back of BD's parents massive van.

Then we were off (minus Aidyn who stayed home to spend time with my family).

I had never even seen my new house!

NEVER!

Not even a picture!

BD had found it, and although there were almost a dozen other people interested, I got it!

It didn't hurt that BD was able to put the deposit and the first couple months rent down in cash!

The whole way to Iowa, I bombarded BD with questions...

What color are the walls?

How big is the kitchen?

Is it clean?

Is there a bath tub!

He tried the best he could with his "male" mind.. to remember ever little detail.

I could tell he was nervous about whether I'd like it, but he tried to pretend he wasnt.

When we pulled up, I was bouncing off the seats.

It was small.

With a front porch that needed some paint...

but it was PERFECT!

The landlord was there, and we started talking about signing the lease..

Then halfway through he realized I'd never even been inside the house.

He walked me through and I fell in LOVE!

The kitchen has sunny yellow walls, with adorable curtains.

The dinning room and living room, are a perfect gray with beautiful white molding!

Arched entries!

A built in nook that is PERFECT for my camera display!

Two bedrooms, the perfect size!

Plenty of closet space!

A basement WITH a WASHER and DRYER!

A back yard!

and A clothes line!

I dont know what it was about the clothes line, that made me feel at home..

but it did!

I was speechless and happy!

I signed the lease with the landlord, and realized that BD and his friend were already hauling things in!

I guess they could tell I loved it by the smile on my face!

By the end of the next day I was unpacked, and happily starting my life with BD!

A few weeks later Aidyn joined us and my house officially became a home!

I love it..

the front of the house! My porch, and my flowers! I haven't even killed them! The kitchen! I thought I had one that wasn't so blurry! But you get the jist! The bathroom! This actually has one of those permanent shower doors, but I hate those, and I love my shower curtain from Target, so I bought a shower rod to put up in front of the other one! :) I love it! Aidyns room! He has several vinyl wall letterings from etsy, and these are his fantastic bunk beds! Aren't they cute?! He LOVES his room! My room! BD's parents bought me that vanity and a head board.. but BD surprised me with a new bed, and bed set! Its an antique bed, and its gorgeous! (ill post pictures of that later!) Looking at the living room from the dinning room.. and my front door!

and from the door..

cute right?

I should take some updated pictures now that things have had time to be decorated, and my front porch HAS gotten painted..! I promise I will soon!

We are growing fonder of our home every day! It is only temporary.. but for now, it is perfect, and I feel incredibly blessed in it! ;)

:) Here goes nothing!

2011-09-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

I just realized there is SOOO many things you guys have missed out on! Since I have an unexpected day off (due to Aidyn having a sick day). I decided to get caught up with your blogs, and catch you up on the life of Aidyn and me :) There is so very much to catch you up on. So I'll start at the beginning, and post my way through. If you are still here reading any of this. You are a saint! If not.. well then this is just for my own safe keeping.

So here goes nothing...

Hope you enjoy!

:)

2011-09-11T12:52:00.000-07:00

I couldn't be happier...

then when I am with these boys.

The big day..

2011-06-27T08:27:00.000-07:00

is soon arriving!

I officially recieved an offer for the job I applied for! In fact it was better then I could have expected! When I applied they only had part time positions, and the time slot that I prefered had no openings. Yet, it was in the field of work that I loved, so I applied anyways.

Last week I recieved the phone call I'd been waiting for! They offered me a full time position in my desired time slot! 7 A.M to 3 P.M! I was thrilled! It is ideal for when Aidyn starts pre-school in the fall!

I felt like it was God validating that this move is exactly what I am supposed to do!

We also found a pre-school we loved for Aidyn, and a daycare that will drop off and pick him up from school! :)

I don't have a house yet, but BD has plenty of room for us until I find a home that is perfect! (Hopefuly soon) I can't wait!

My last day at my current job will be this coming Thursday! I can't believe I'll be done. I am so attatched to my consumers. Especially my in-homes. I know I haven't blogged much lately, but if I had, I would have raved about how amazing my current job is. In fact I get paid two days a week to work out! I get to bring one of my favorite guys to the gym, and get paid for it! Its fantastic! His family is amazing, and I've become quite close with one of his nieces and nephew! It'll be hard to say goodbye, but I am relieved that they will still let me stay in contact! :)

Thursday evening and Friday morning were hosting a HUGE garage sale! It'll be nice to get rid of some of our stuff, (So I don't have to move it..) but I am dreading the task! Friday night I am having a girls night/going away party with my friend from high school.. and then Saturday I am heading to BD's for the week. Aidyn will come back (from his dads) and spend the week with my mom. I am looking forward to having some time with BD alone. Its been so nice that we've been able to work on our relationship and really grow! I 100% believe that things will work out! We are better then ever and taking our time to grow into the relationship that I believe we were always meant to have. So the week together will really be nice.

I start orientation the 5th and 6th. Then I'll have the rest of the week to help BD with household and yard work as well as look for an apartment/home. I also want to check into a "moms" group. I am moving there knowing no one except for BD's family and one or two of his friends. So it'll be a big change from my home now, where I have MANY friends. All of which are very sad that I am moving!

The thing is, that I really-really enjoy meeting new people and making new friends! I am up for the challange! Plus I know I'll still be back to visit on a regular basis.

BD is thrilled with my move! I love the excited way he grins and hugs me when we talk about it! I know that the best thing for "us" as a family is to make this move. I am excited for it for a million reasons. I just can't wait for it to begin.

So this last week I am enjoying my amazing family. Soaking up my time with them, and trying to pace myself between family time and getting stuff ready for my move!

I hope to blog through out this process now! I am sure I'll have plenty more time, now that my schedual will be more regular. (and I wont have as many friends distracting me :) lol) So I look forward to peeking in on your lives, and sharing with you all of my new adventures.
Many of these things are unexpected surprises.. and I am so very thankful for them.

p.s. these picture have NOTHING to do with this post.. except to show you how happy I am :) and how much I love spending time with my family :) ha ha!

:)

2011-06-26T21:05:00.000-07:00

So remember that New Years Resolution ?

Well.... I'm failing miserably.

and I couldn't be happier about it!

Dreams really do come true!

:)

2011-05-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

I am DYING to tell all of you some very-very exciting news....

but I can't yet...

ahhh...

its KILLING me!

but soon..

very soon :) !!

Meanwhile you can all just see the excitement and smiles on our faces:

Don't we look happy?

Its because we are! :)

p.s. NO Aidyn is NOT that chunky! lol He just likes to make those ridiculous faces in pictures! Darn Four year olds :)

Hope ya'll are having a great Monday!!!

CH-CH-CHAAAANNGGGEEESSSS...

2011-05-11T09:11:00.001-07:00

Ahhh my blogger family!

I am in fact ALIVE!

I have had several comments/emails from those of you who are not my facebook friends (who should be!) asking if I was still among the living..

I am!

I promise!

Life is good!

Really good!

Between hard work and getting money back from my taxes, I should be (almost) debt free! (minus one student loan!) I am beyond thrilled! It'll be so nice not having that pressure on my shoulders!

Due to hard work and some MAJOR self control, I am down almost 35 pounds! WOOHOO! My brother and I even won the gym's team challenge!!! Earning ourselves a free month membership! In six weeks I lost 20.2 lbs and my brother lost 17 lbs! We started two weeks after the other teams, and we still pulled through and won it! :)

I've started running! I used to literally DREAM about running at night while I slept! Flying over the pavement! Leaping logs! Feeling the wind in my hair! Well I'm not leaping, and I'm not flying.. but I am jogging! I'm getting better and better on my mile time!

I am thrilled with my progress! I just feel myself getting stronger and healthier every day!

Now for the BIGGEST news!

I'm moving!

Aidyn and I are moving in August to Iowa!

We are moving closer to Aidyn's father!

Things are going REALLY well with his dad, and we are really looking forward to be closer and not having such a large distance between us!

This weekend I am going down to interview preschools, check out apartments, and hopefully I will have an interview as well! (fingers crossed!)

Aidyn is nervous about the move! He is very sad about leaving his cousins, but I think once he is in his own room, near his dad, and living in the country he will be one VERY VERY happy boy!

Between all that, work, planning a pub crawl, a wedding shower, being in a wedding, having a garage sale, bachelorette party, running in a 5k, etc... I am keeping myself quite busy!

I hope all of you are too! The one thing I have learned in my months away, is that life is BEAUTIFUL! That sometimes you just have to take control over it and do what you always wanted to do! That nothing is out of your reach! That you just have to dive in!

Life is coming together for me! I am no longer just a an observer, I am a participant in my life! :)

I know I may not be around, and I DO miss you all VERY much, but I am not sorry! I am happy with how my life is right now! I'll stop periodically to say hi, but like always, you can find me on FACEBOOK! :)

Really hoping you are all doing well, and wishing you the fullest life! :)

Guess who's almost four....

2011-03-31T11:31:00.001-07:00

YUP! This little hunk is turning FOUR on Sunday!

Wow! The time flies by!

Thanks again to everyone who voted for him, and helped him win Marrissa's photography contest! She did a fabulous job! You can see all these photos (bigger) plus more here! She did a fabulous job! We are SOOO grateful!

life changes!

2011-03-26T07:35:00.001-07:00

I'm fairly certain my fans/friends/followers are dropping like flies.

Understandable.

But for those of you who are still around...

Here is an update :)

For starters, we are still very much alive :)

In fact I am VERY certain that I am finally living my life.

I'm learning to love myself.

I'm learning to take care of myself.

I'm learning to trust myself.

Most important I am getting to know myself.

Not just as a mother.

Not just as a friend...

but as a woman.

I've learned that when I start to love myself, the rest of my life will fall into place.

(with hardwork of course)

I started to realize that when I care about myself, I care about what I put into my body.

When I love myself I WANT to go to the gym.

In fact I CRAVE the gym!

When I did the 30 day shred, I dreaded it. Now my hour and a half at the gym is almost a retreat!

I've learned that when I really got to know myself, I didn't need to spend money on things to make myself happy!

I started to pay off my debt. I got my spending in order!

My life is slowly becoming what I've wanted it to be.

I am not there yet...

but I am getting there.

I've lost 15 pounds (in a month) .

I've paid off a credit card, and a student loan.

I've worked more.

Gone to the gym almost every day (Minus last weekend, when I was away from home!)

These baby steps are getting me closer and closer to my goals.

I think the biggest thing is that I am PROUD of myself!

I am able to celebrate my accomplishments, and not down play them!

Because when you work hard, you deserve it.

And by golly, I'm working hard! :))

So if you have been wondering why you haven't seen me..

Well now you know :)

Because changing your life is A LOT of work!

Just remember... I LOVE you all!

p.s. the picture was taken the day before I started working out... :) I plan to get pictures taken when I meet my goal weight :)

pu-pu-please!

2011-02-17T09:54:00.000-08:00

I know I have no right to ask for favors right now..

Since I am fairly pathetic, and havent been by to say hi..

but...

for the "old" Brittany sake,

Could you maybe...

pretty please with sugar on top...

vote for Aidyn's picture on facebook!!!

If he wins he gets a free 1/2 hour session!

His birthday is coming up in April, and I would LOVE for him to get his four year old pictures taken!

If you're down all you do is follow this link ....

"like" the photographer and then "like" Aidyn's picture!

Simple as that!!

I'll be your bestest friends forever! :)

p.s. I miss and love you guys!!!

How about bribery...?

2011-01-31T13:04:00.001-08:00

So I know all of you miss me.

I get it.

I would miss me too :) Obvs!

So what if I bribed you?!

What if I said you could meet little old me in PERSON?!

I know!

You could meet ME in PERSON!

Don't faint!

I know several of you live in Minnesota, and I would LOVE -LOVE - LOVE it if you could help me out!

I am doing another 30 day challange for Mary Kay and I need FACES!

I've used a lot of resources around here, but now I need more for my next challange!

If you are interested in meeting me and getting a free facial then email me at brittdjohnson87@yahoo.com!

To sweeten the deal I am offering a 15% discount on any product you purchase during your facial!

Let me know if you're interested!

I'll seriously love you forever :)

I mean it!

FOR

EV

ERRRRR!

I might even love you this much: okay wait, that may be a little TOO much..

but you know what I mean :)))

p.s. Hope you are all doing well! I really do miss you guys!!!

hello darling....

2011-01-28T10:59:00.000-08:00

I know I look like a straight "G"..

but I'm not.

I'm a big fat LOOOOOSSSSSERRRRRR!

I don't think I can even call myself a blogger anymore....

I won't even pretend that I will be by any time soon.

I really-really don't have time.

For instance, this is my schedule for the weekend:

Friday:
Work 8:30 A.M to 12:00 P.M.
Laundry/clean room 12:15-1:15
Work 1:30 P.M. to 6:00 P.M
Pack
Supper with My cousin at 8:00 PM
Sleepover at my cousins

Saturday:
Wake up at 5:00 A.M and get ready
Leave for conference at 6:00 A.M
Conference at 8:15 A.M
Meet best friend at 3:30 P.M
HAWAIIAN NIGHT

Sunday:
9:00 A.M leave for Mary Kay debut party with my friend Randy
1:30 P.M Set up for debut party
2:30 P.M Debut party
6:30 P.M to 10:30 P.M work

and Monday I work the overnight

I know that doesn't sound that crazy, but I swear.. I have NOOOOO down time!

So I love you all
I miss you all..
I'm still alive...
and I hope one day I can be as awesome at blogging as I use to be!

p.s. if you add me on facebook (see right side bar) I promise I will "like" or comment on your wall/status! :)))) Plus you can see pictures of all my adventures!

I wear purple again today...

2011-01-18T09:48:00.000-08:00

I wear purple again today.
The headlines splashed across the news.
This time it hits too close to home.
A neighboring community.
Ignorance at its finest.
Hearts broken.
Tears shed.
A young life ended too soon.
When will it end?
When will we see..
that words DO hurt.
That a blind eye and a silent voice is just as bad.
That this NEVER had to happen.
So I wear purple again today.
To support this young life
and all those that share his pain!

Lace Lundsten committed suicide in a neighboring community this past weekend. I did not have the privellage of knowing this young man, but I know the community well. Lance was a openly gay teenager and in a community such as mine, I don't doubt that this caused him to be a target for bullying and abuse. My thoughs and prayers are with the community, friends and family of Lance Lundsten as they cope with the loss of this brave young man. I pray that Gods grace and love surround them as they cope with the loss of this beautiful young man. May we use this tragedy to become a better community and to realize how our actions and lack of action effects others.

Aidyn-mommy photo-montage!

2011-01-10T10:04:00.000-08:00

Just because I know you've missed us :)

:)))

Mine...

2011-01-06T11:17:00.001-08:00

Sometimes I can't believe that I am struggling with the same issue in 2011 that I struggled with in o7!

(hey that rhymed)

It has been over four years since my sons father and I split.

I have gone through a roller coaster of emotions through out the past four years.

Its a true "Love" - "Hate" relationship.

Never the less, the one and only New Years resolution I have set for myself is:

"Getting over my ex!"

Should be easy.

Right?

The thing is that I really and truly LOVE spending time with him.

We laugh.

We have fun.

We talk.

We parent.

It seems SOOO perfect when we are together.

It seems, even for a day, that we are a family...

but then..

well then he gets into his car.

He drives the four hours back to his house.

He calls his girlfriend.

Crawls into his own bed.

Joins his own life.

A life that I am not apart of.

It is a fantasy land when we are together.

One that only exists in my head.

It looks real to the outsiders.

The ones seeing us eating as a family.

The ones that don't know the past.

The ones that see us walking together through the mall...

each grasping one small hand of our child.

But they aren't privy to the nitty gritty details.

They can't see my tummy tighten when I watch him drive away.

They dont see me cry myself to sleep.

We look like a perfect little family..

but...

There is NOTHING perfect about this situation.

Its like getting your heart broken.

Over and over and over again.

For four years.

So thats why in 2011, I am going to move on.

I am going to allow my heart to fully break.

I am going to let it heal.

I am going to move on.

I am going to stop sabotaging every relationship I attempt.

I am going to stop thinking "what if".

I am going to stop believing that there will be a day that he will be mine.

He hasn't been for four years, and he never will be.

The first step, is to admit that.

So raise your glass and cheers to 2011.

The year that my heart is finally mine again.

*cheers*

My life in snapshots..

2011-01-05T13:39:00.000-08:00

and no subtitles...

(sorry)

:))))

.

I am one lucky girl :)))

ENGAGED!!!

2011-01-05T08:20:00.000-08:00

No, not me silly!

My wonderful brother Adam!

EEK!

He popped the question on Christmas, and we couldnt be happier!

To top it off, this little cutie is the ring barer:

How cute will he be in a tux?!

Even more... Michelle asked me to be one of her bridesmaids!

I am so excited to be apart of their very special day!

Not only will I be getting a great sister, but a nephew as well!

EEK!

Congratulations Adam and Michelle!!!

Happy NEW YEAR!

2011-01-04T08:01:00.000-08:00

Hello darlings!

Doesn't everything seem so new and sparkly at the beginning of the new year?

A fresh start.

A clean slate.

*sigh*

I have decided this will be MY year.

The year that everything "happens" for me!

So of course I had to start it off right:

Looking like a total diva, OBVIOUSLY!

With incredible friends....

a few cocktails...

and cute hats of course! :)
As I counted down the seconds to the be 1-1... I realized how much I needed a new start...

I started planning my new life goals..

Created my resolutions...

Vowed to be a better person....

Okay..

er...

wait..

None of those actually happened!

The only thing that happened after midnight was shots..

:)

But the next day... I TOTALLY thought about all those things :)

Fair enough, right?

HA! :)

Happy New year lovelies! Hope 2011 is the best year EVER!!! :)

Aidyn says...

2010-12-21T10:23:00.000-08:00

Aidyn is a lover of the man in red.

In fact for three straight years he took perfect "Santa pics" with little to no coaxing.

Check it out:

(This years to come, once I get our scanner to work!)

This year his father and I took him to MOA to see Santa. He looked ridiculously authentic! Aidyn was super well behaved, and although the picture turned out a little less then perfect, the overall experience was fantastic.

Yesterday we had plans to go see Santa again with my niece and nephew. They have yet to see the big man this year, so the whole house was excited!

Then typical to Minnesota winters, it started to snow.

Hard!

Schools closed, parts of the interstate were shut down along with our plans to go see Santa!

BOOO!

Do not fear, we thought fast!

We called up my father and asked him to call the kids as Santa Clause!

My dad is a big burly man, and his voice was perfect!

First he talked to my nephew, who listened with wide eyes and a huge smile! He promised to be good and asked for a tractor.

Then it was Aidyns turn...

"Hi Santa!!"

(slight pause for Santa to reply...)
"You know what Santa?"

(Another pause..)

"Me and my mom are having some problems!"

bahahahaha!

Could you imagine if he would have said that to a "Mall Santa" ?!

I just about died!

To top it off he asked Santa for a real live Reindeer!

The tone of his voice and the seriousness on his face had us all doubled over with laughter!

I can promise you all, I was thanking God that the roads were bad and we were unable to make it to that mall!

Although, I'd really like to have see the Mall's Santa respond to THAT one!

p.s. When asked why we were having "problems" he responded: "Well I wasn't being a good listener!" He DIDN'T mention that one to Santa!!

Pip-squeak

2010-12-19T12:40:00.000-08:00

This is a story that I wrote last year for Christmas! I wrote it for my pre-schoolers and I hope you all enjoy it again this year :)

The story of Pip-squeak

At the North Pole there are many elves. They come in all shapes and sizes. They are all small, but none of them were as small as pip-squeak. Pip squeak was no bigger then from my elbow to the tip of my fingers. a little over a foot at most. He tried and tried to be a good elf, but he never felt good enough. He never felt big enough.

When all the orders came in for presents, Pip-squeak noticed that everyone wanted big presents. Scooters, and bikes. Sleds and computers. Those were big presents for bigger elves, not for little old pip-squeak. Pip decided then and there that he was going to run away. Far-far away from the North Pole. Maybe somewhere tropical like Hawaii.

Pip packed his bags, and put on his warmest sweater. Just as he was leaving, a big snow storm hit. It was blowing and snowing so hard that Pip couldn't see anything. Just as he was about to start crying Pip ran right smack into something. It was a boot. A black shiny boot. SANTAS BOOT! Santa bent down and picked little Pip-Squeak up in his gloved hand. He smiled a BIG smile, for Santa always thought that Pip-Squeak was a mighty-fine elf. A little small, but a very hard worker.

Pip-squeak looked at Santa and started crying:

"Ohhh Santa!" Cried Pip before bursting into little sobs.

"What is the matter, my friend." Asked Santa calmly.

"I'm too small for the North Pole. I'm too small to make presents. I think i'll just run away!"

"Ohh I see." said Santa. He thought for a minute scratching is very long beard. "I think I have an idea."

"Whats that?" Asked Pip curiously.

"I think I have just the job for you. There are only a few months before Christmas, you stay around the North Pole until Christmas and give it a try. If you don't like it, or you're not good at it, then I will take you anywhere in the world in my sleigh."

"Anywhere? Even Hawaii?" Pip asked

"Even Hawaii" Said Santa. Chuckling at the thought of a little elf in Hawaii.

So off they went to Pip's new job. Santa brought Pip to a large room full of little houses. Small houses that were just the right size for Pip. Doll houses! Santa showed Pip all the paint brushes, paints, and saws. All of them were just Pip's size!

Pip got started right away. He painted the walls, he put carpet on the floors, hung curtains, and made furniture. He decorated each little doll house with tender care. Elves came from all around the North Pole to admire his work. All of them looked at wonder at the little details on each piece.

"Only little hands could paint those!" said a big round elf.

"Look at the little stiches on the couch!" Cried another.

"I can't believe how perfect the colors are!" Said Mrs. Clause!

Pip-squeak beamed with pride, but kept right on working. He worked and he worked. He worked right up until the big day. While finishing the last stitch on a checkered table cloth, Pip felt a shake. It felt like a earth quake, but as fast as it started it stopped.

"Perfect!" exclaimed Pip as he looked around. "This is going to make some little girl VERY happy!" Then he started for the door to let Santa know, but when he opened the door, he realized he was no longer in the work shop. In fact he was outside. When he climbed his way out, he noticed he was way high up in the air. He let out a little shriek.

Santa turned around startled!

"Oh my!" Said Santa "What are you doing up here?"

"I didn't mean to! I was busy..and then..I'm so sorry!" Pip said, feeling like a horrible elf again.

"Ohh don't you worry Pip. We are too far to turn around now, you'll just have to come with me on all the delivers. "

Pip smiled, and so did Santa. Off they went on their adventure. Stopping and dropping off each present for each little boy and girl. The sun was almost coming up when they made their last stop. Santa got out of the sleigh. He looked around. He looked up, and then down. Finally he noticed a little small door. Too small for Santa. It was a house. A house for a mouse. It was then that Santa realized that this was another job for Pip. He went back to the sleigh and got Pip. He gave him a little hat, and a little coat. Little boots, and a little bag full of presents. Pip went down the little chimney and put the little presents in front of the little tree. He went back up the chimney and back to the sleigh. Pip did it again!

Just as they were crossing over Hawaii, Santa asked Pip if he wanted him to stop. Pip shook his head, and smiled at Santa. He knew that the North Pole was definitely where he belongs. Every Christmas since Pip has rode right next to Santa, and delivered the presents to all the littlest creatures all over the world. He may not be the biggest elf at the North Pole, but he certainly has the biggest heart!

The End!!

:)) I loveee youuuu!!

2010-12-15T14:29:00.000-08:00

Hello my darlings :)

Ohhh how I have missed you!

I promise this will NOT be another post declaring what a SUCKY blogger I am, or apologizing for not being by. Because, I am working on that :)

This is simply a little note, telling you that I loveeee youuuu!

and letting you know that I am in fact still alive,

and most importantly I am reminding you of how much you REALLY do love me!

You do, I promise!

I mean seriously...

Can you be mad at someone with cheeks like this?

Its like hating a baby! :)

Not possible.

The day my life was completed...

2010-12-08T23:40:00.000-08:00

23 years ago, my world was completed.

For six months and ten days prior, I was alone on this earth.

Just waiting for the moment when my world would feel right.

My mom blamed my colic and cranky nature on an allergy to milk.

I don't buy it.

I think my poor little heart, was waiting for God to send my angel sister to me.

I was alone, cold, and waiting..

waiting for her...

My love.

My bestie.

My friensin (which is the fusion of friend and cousin) !

My angel...

Happy Birthday Jaclyn!!
I LOVE you!

bahahahahha!!! :)))

Just livin' life

2010-12-06T19:16:00.000-08:00

So remember when I was a queen commenter?

Remember when I made you laugh?

Remember when you said "AWWW" as you read all my sweet comments?

Does it feel like a distant memory?

ya?

well..

I am SORRRRRY!!

Life has really caught up with me.

Truth is..

I'm out livin my life!

I'm laughing.

I'm working.

I'm taking care of my son.

I'm spending time with family.

I'm selling Mary Kay.

I'm going to parties..

And I am HAPPY!

My blog is and was my escape... but these days... I don't need one as much.

I'm not saying I am going anywhere..

I'm just saying..

that these days I might be a bit sparse!

Because this girl is happy and living life :) and I hope you are too!!!

Take a peek...

2010-12-03T18:05:00.000-08:00

at my new room...

I switched rooms this past weekend! My step dad painted it a light gray...

I changed comforters to my down feather comforter, with a white and gray duvet cover (ikea). I bought deep purple sheets (Although they look black for some reason in this picture) to go with it! and I am deeply in love! To top off the look, I turned a full length mirror on its side to go above my bed! I think it added a little something to the look!

I had my step dad leave the doors off the closet, and turned it into my office.

I painted an old desk a light purple, and accessorized with deep purple office supplies.I'm planning on purchasing some purple of gray curtains to cover the "office" when I'm not using it and to hide some of my storage!

I grouped family pictures in different black frames with my white shelves. I added some of my antique cameras to the shelves. I love how this turned out!

Of course my room wouldn't be complete without my vanity and bag of MK make up! :)

One of my favorite touches of the room is this picture frame:

It was going unused, until I used a little creative magic. I spray painted the picture frame purple, and framed some light purple scrap book paper! Now I use it as a memo board by writing on the glass with wipe of markers! I can add little notes, and then wipe it off when I want to change it up! Perfect for quotes or big reminders!

I liked my old room, but LOVE my new room!

It feels so light, airy, and clean! Its definitely the retreat that I need at the end of a long day!

Today is my Birthday....

2010-11-30T09:45:00.000-08:00

Well.... today is my 1/2 Birthday.

23 years ago today, I was 6 months old!

Can you even imagine the cuteness?

It looked a little something like this...

(although I dont know how old we are in this picture.. I'm on the left...)

So lets use this 1/2 Birthday as an excuse to drink and be merry!

Because you know I always love an excuse to do that :)))

p.s. Anyone else think I should just quit my job and become a full time "paint shop" artist?

Lames Disease

2010-11-29T21:17:00.000-08:00

Do you ever stop and think..

Wow, I'm kind of lame.

That happened to me the other day.

Aidyn is gone to his dads right now.

He left last Tuesday and wont be back until this coming Sunday.

So all and all about two weeks.

Have I gone out at all?

N-O!

Not even once!

Which brings me to the LAME factor.

Saturday I volunteered to pick up a morning shift, and then followed that up with organizing the basement with my parents.

After the long day I found myself curled up on the couch playing Scrabble online.

Midway through a game with some middle aged man, I realized....

I AM LAMEEEEEEE!

Here I am, child free on a Saturday night, and I opted out of a night out with friends to stay home in sweats and eat chocolate and play scrabble....?!?!

Scrabble recently replaced my Tetris addiction.

Which just adds to my lameness.

(Although I am pretty bomb at both!

And I am quite sure its much better then a cocaine addiction!)

Regardless, I have decided....

I am officially the lamest 23 year old ever.

After some major googling and browsing WEB MD I self diagnosed myself.

I have a bad case of

LAMES DISEASE

not to be confused with Lazy Ass syndrome.

Lames Disease is a disease that penetrates a persons desire to be social, move, think, or create. It is life altering and can severely hurt ones social life.

I'm sure theres a pill out there, but theres always fine print with those damn pills.

I'd probably just end up with diarrhea or bad acne.

And I just don't see that helping my lameness any. .....

So if you're wondering why I haven't been by lately....

Well you can blame it on the online Scrabble addiction, or the Lames Disease

Feel free to send sympathy cards and checks...

Your donation could help find a cure for Lames Disease.

Its a daily battle, but one day I hope to kick it.

With your help and a bottle of Jack, one day I will be back to the Brittany you all know and love..

p.s. Anyone want to attempt to count how many times the word "lame" appeared in this post?

Partners :))

2010-11-26T19:02:00.000-08:00

Time for the big swap! :)

I've made up the lists and posted them below!

(click to enlarge)

Find your name and email address and the person across from you on the chart is your partner! Please email your partner with your address and blog url ASAP! If you don't get a reply by Tuesday November 30th let me know and I will find you another partner to swap with! (There were a few of you who offered to do 2-3. I only paired you up with 2 in case there were a couple who fell through!)

Once you have exchanged mailing addresses and blog urls check out your partners blog for ornament ideas! Then get your hiney to the store and find the perfect ornament for your swap! (or make one!!) Please have your ornaments in the mail by Tuesday December 7th, so that your partner can enjoy them on their tree for as long as possible! :)

I will post a McLinky some time next week for you all to link up your posts if you care to share your Christmas goodies! :))

I'm looking forward to reading all about your experience and super duper excited to shop for my partners!

Have fun, and happy swapping!! :))

p.s. If I made any mistakes on the charts please let me know and I will fix them A.S.A.P! :)))

Another Brittany Blooper

2010-11-24T08:52:00.000-08:00

So if you know me at all, you know my cryptonite is Dove Chocolate. In fact Aidyn call's it "Mommy's Medicine". Which it obviously is..

One of my favorite things about the delicious chocolates, is the words of wisdom on the little foil wrappers.

A month or so ago I got this message:

The first time I read it (blame it on the sugar high) I thought it said:

"Time you enjoyed wasted, was not wasted at all!"

I was like that is SOOO true!

Case in point:

Then I re-read it..

It in fact says:

"Time you enjoyed wasting was not wasted at all."

I'm not gonna lie.. I wasn't nearly as excited about it the second time around.

Brittany says...

2010-11-22T11:12:00.000-08:00

So as most of you know, Minnesota is FU FU FREEZING.

The temperatures get down well below zero in the middle of winter.

The newscaster usually give two temperatures.

For as long as I can remember I thought it was the ACTUAL temperature, and the WIND SHIELD!

YES!

Wind Shield!

I thought it was the temperature you felt when you got into your car!

bahahaha!

I called it that all the time, and NO ONE ever corrected me!

The first time I seen it written out as WIND CHILL, it was a complete and total "DUH!" moment Obviously that makes a lot more sense!

So today when I got into the vehical after chipping away ice from the wind shield I had to chuckle at my past word mixup! :) But let me tell you, it really did feel like -10 below WIND SHIELD!

Aidyn says...

2010-11-21T18:33:00.000-08:00

Aidyn: "Why do you do that?"
Mommy: "What did I do?"
Aidyn Why do you love me so much?
Mommy: "Because I just do!"
Aidyn: "Cuz you just kiss me and kiss me and kiss me so much whenever I say anything!"

and then midway through an "Awww"
he said..
"It drives me OBNOXIOUS!"

ummm thanks?

ha ha ha!

Fashion tips revealed....

2010-11-20T10:08:00.000-08:00

After yesterdays post, Pam and Mary were flooded with inquiring fashionistas!

So today Unexpected Surprises is please to present "Tips from the Experts"

Lucille in small town MN asks "Pam, I love to wear holiday vests, but they just aren't flashy enough for me. How do you add just the right touch for holiday parties and church potlucks?"

Great question Lucille! The best way to get the bang for your buck is to accessories with as many holiday themed broaches as humanly possible. Just when you think you have too many.. ask yourself "WWPD?" (yes, that means what would Pam do?) and of course I would add at least two more! Irene in Iowa writes "Pam, my girlfriends and I love to go to the VF for Bingo night. How do we stand out in the crowd?"

Irene, my best advice is patterns! The louder the better! Some people ask Why pair a Christmas tree turtle neck with a Santa clause vest.. well I say.. "WHY NOT?!" I promise, the more patterns you have the more apt you are going to be remembered!

Sam in Wisconsin asked: "I love your style! Where can I find something just like it?"

Sam, thank you! We are completely flattered! Obviously we'd love for you to purchase all your holiday wear from Falalalallaalalalala Fashion but if you're looking for something closer to home
we suggest you start with your local thrift stores. You should see some of the gems we find! If you like what you seen in on our show, you should see our closets!

If you aren't too keen on wearing thrifted items, the local Walmart has a beautiful line of holiday wear!
and of course after purchasing your holiday wear you can make use of the early holiday displays as a backdrop for your annual Christmas card! Its pretty much a win win situation.

Do you have a picture for Pam or Mary? Feel free to ask away!

Because fashion is our passion, and holidaze are our craze.

Hugs and Kisses
Pam and Mary

Fa la la la la la Holiday Fashion

2010-11-19T08:52:00.000-08:00

Being Fashionable this Holiday season can be kind of tough! I thought you could take some tips from myself along with my fashion partner!

In a little segment we like to call FALALALALA LALALALALA fashion!

Enjoy:

Hope you learned something, and apply these tips to your every day life! :)) Bahahahaha!

We are thankful...

2010-11-18T08:34:00.000-08:00

My Mom had this genius idea to make a Thankful Turkey...

I drew it, the kiddos colored it!

It turned out fabulous :)

Then the kids cut out colorful feathers, and we (meaning mostly my mom, because I work so dang much) helped them write what they are thankful for on the feathers.

Lots of sweet things such as family members, food, our warm home, etc.. And silly stuff like "I'm thankful we got to go trick or treating!" (Yes, that was from Aidyn!)

I think its a great way to teach the kids the true meaning of Thanksgiving!

I love walking past the Thankful Turkey and seeing all the wonderful things we've been blessed with! :)

And of course I couldn't forget about all of you! So "Blogging" has its very own Thankful feather! I am so Thankful for the fact that I have an outlet for all my feelings and writing. I'm so thankful that I can combine my two passions "writing" and being a "mom".. and most of all I am so thankful for all of you! :))
So tell me... What are you Thankful for?

Now to end on an ohhh so funny note....

THANKFUL TURKEY BLOOPER:

Anyone see something wrong with this picture? (click image to enlarge) LMAO!

Another one bites the dust....

2010-11-17T21:23:00.000-08:00

Things didn't really work out with Mr.Halloween.

We texted and talked for a few days after our date...

then nothing..

Sort of faded.

I texted him on Sunday and he responded although we were both fairly vague.

He was at the gym so I told him I'd call him after my MK meeting..

I did, and we spoke for about ten minutes.

Nothing special.

The conversation seemed forced.

I guess without alcohol in the mix, we didn't have much to say.

In the mean time there was another man at the party who got my attention.

He and I chatted a bit while he poured me a drink.

I asked my friend about him this week and she was fairly excited about it all.

She asked him what he thought about me.

He didn't remember my name (which didn't surprise me.. lots of alcohol was involved) but he did remember "Snow White".

He was definitely game for a double date!

We haven't spoken, but my friend is playing the in-between.

He wanted to get together this weekend, but I am busy with work all weekend.

I'm hoping sometime next week!

The one thing I have realized through out all this is that there are other fish in the sea.

There is NO reason to force something that isn't there.

I wish I had a funny anecdote about Mr. Halloween, but honest I don't.

He was a great guy, and I wish him well.

Some times things just aren't meant to be..

and guess what?

I'm TOTALLY okay with that :))

12?

2010-11-17T08:11:00.000-08:00

They have tons of creams...

lotions...

and potions..

for anti-aging.

But..

What about me?

Are there any creams out there to make me look ten years older?

As it is I look what..

12?!

So give me another ten years and I'll ALMOST look my actual age!

Sigh!

Any pointers for looking older ladies and gents?

There has to be SOME way to stop looking like the undercover agent used in the "To Catch a Predator" documentaries!

My cafe'

2010-11-16T18:03:00.000-08:00

The cafe is small, with mismatched tables and paper menus.

Creamers fill bowls, and condiments in red and yellow bottles sit alongside a paper napkin dispenser.

Home made desserts are on display and the smell of grease and fried food fills up the air.

The salad bar is lacking, to say the least.

The food is average, and the dessert is phenomenal, but that isn't the reason anyone comes.

It is a meeting place.

The moment you walk in you feel a blast of warmth.

The heater is cranked, easing the pain of the 32 degree weather when you walk in.

I shuffle in and sit at my usual spot.

I make eye contact with the other costumers and they smile and give me a nod.

I am still a stranger, even though I've come once or twice a week for over a month.

The rest, have known each other for years.

Decades maybe.

Three tables are pushed together, and surrounded by a group of white haired men.

Flannel shirts, blue jeans, and beaten up John Deere hats seem to be the unspoken dress code.

A trucking logo found on vinyl coats and a pair of thick glasses is also quite common.

I watch their weathered hands roll dice and pass back and fourth their dollar bills and quarters.

A round of laughter is served alongside their coffees.

The waitress dons her half white apron and a t'shirt with the cafe's logo printed on it.

She knows all their names.

They nod their acknowledgment and say something along the lines of "I'll take the usual, Pam!" or "Coffee, black."

A man enters several minutes after me.

It takes him several minutes to reach the table, even if it's only a few feet away.

He makes his rounds.

It would be impolite to miss even one table.

A reminder of a church event at one.

"Did you go hunting this year?" at another.

Everyone knows everyone.

They are a family.

A tight knit group.

When he finally reaches the table a round of hellos and grunts goes around.

The man pulls out his handful of dollar bills for the game of dice.

A rather robust man to his right tells him the same "dirty joke" he's told three times already.

Nothing too vulgar, but just enough to make these ex-soldiers hoot and holler.

Around Veterans day they took turns sharing horror stories of war.

Each one worse then the next.

I believe them all.

Their wrickles cover their faces and deepen when they smile or furrow.

Usually this correlates with whether or not they are winning or losing at dice.

The table seems constantly full.

When one leaves, another takes his place.

They tip their waitresses a quarter or two, and leave with another round of goodbyes at each table.

They'll be back again tomorrow.

Another round of coffees.

Another game of dice...

Another long conversation filled with stories, half truths, and jokes.

And I know that when I come back that I can count on the same smiles, nods, and warm feeling that I feel every time I walk into this place.

It is a piece of time untouched.

It is my piece of heaven and escape.

I hope each and everyone of you can find a place just like this.

A place where you can step back in time...

A place to be surrounded by history.

:)

2010-11-15T08:13:00.000-08:00

First may I say that I feel SO much better after my short hiatus from blogging.

I think its soo important to take breaks when you need them.

So now I am back, rested, and rearing to go!

Which is good because my week WILL be busy.

Between work, Aidyn, and Mary Kay my weeks just keep flying by!

Its hard to keep up with everything!

I hope that your weekend was filled with tons of fun and laughter.

I will be by soon to visit, but be patient with me!

I love you all :)))

My little lady :))))

2010-11-12T08:54:00.000-08:00

So I have this Marilyn Monroe wig from college.

Its this blond classy-hot mess!

Its pretty much a Halloween whore.

Its made its rounds.

Now its retired to the kids dress up closet.

Today in a moment of boredom, I convinced Aidyn to put it on.

It was too funny!

So next I convinced him to:
A) Don the MM dress
B) Put on make up
C) Keep the wig on

He looked at himself in the mirror and said...

"YUCK!"

"What do you mean 'YUCK'?!" I asked him

"I look like a girl!" he said with obvious distaste

"Thanks a lot!" I scoffed "Now lets go show Grandma!"

I had to carry him up the stairs, but like the true showman he is, he played along.

He kept the wig and necklace on long enough for my mom to have a good laugh, then he threw the wig on the couch.

I made him put it back on to show his cousins.

Then he'd had enough!

He started pulling off the dress faster then a drunken college chick!
(I blame it on the blonde wig! lol just kidding!)

"NOOOOO!!! Keep it on! I want to take a picture and send it to your dad!"

"NO WAY! I am NOT wearing this girly stuff NO MORE!" He shouted at me.

"Why not?" I pleaded "Just a few more seconds!"

"No way!" he said firmly while trying to unknot the dress..

"Okay fine! I'll give you a piece of chocolate if you let me take your picture!"

His face changed..

"Okay. IF you let me pick my own treat from the candy bowl!"

He's becoming a hard bargainer

"Deal!"

So he stood there long enough for me to get one picture.

Then off with the clothes.

He couldn't get it off fast enough.

Then he begged me to take the make up off.

I did, and then I captured this video:

He is obviously traumatized!

ha ha..

but really, isn't that what childhood is for?

I mean I have to give him SOMETHING to talk with his future psychiatrist about, right?

P.s. This is TOTALLY going to be framed if he acts up as a teenager!

Thanks Shutterfly

2010-11-11T18:17:00.000-08:00

So I had completely finished my holiday cards in town.

In fact all that was left was to decide how many and I would have submitted my order.

Then I visited Shutterfly, and fell in love with there many designs!

So now I am completely lost as to which one I will choose.

All I know is that my holiday cards WILL be done by Shutterfly!

Why?

Look at these cool designs?

I know that I want to do a card with multiple pictures. The one I had ready to print had plenty of room for pictures, but lacked the design details I found at Shutterfly. You can check out others and browse for yourself here.

Another one of my favorite gifts I receive from my mom is our annual family calander! I look forward to a new one ever year! This year I am considering making one for a few of my good friends. I love the fact that I can make it and ship it right to them! Online shopping is GREAT for family members that live out of state! The prices for Shutterfly's calendars are super affordable too! Which is great for this girl with a budget!

Lastly what better way to top your holiday gifts off then with a personalized gift tag?

Seriously Does it get much cuter then this?

To top off all this Shutterfly goodness, Shutterfly is giving away 50 free photo cards to bloggers! When I heard about that, it sealed the deal for me!

To get involved you can sign up to earn your 50 free holiday cards from shutterfly here: http://bit.ly/sfly2010 !!

You can thank me later for the hook up! :)

Thanks again Shutterfly, you will surely be in charge of all of my holiday needs this Christmas!

P.s. I'm still supporting Thanksgiving comes first... but seriously FREE photo cards? I couldn't resist!

Fabulous product, exciting news!

2010-11-11T11:56:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I was contacted to do a review of QwikShower wipes.

What are qwik shower wipes?

They are large, moist, single-use disposable washcloths for those occasions when a shower isn't feasible.

Lets say you are in a hurry after working out. You need to run and pick up the kids or some groceries. These wipe are perfect for those moments when you are in the rush, and need a quick clean up. They get rid of any embarrassing smells and odors until you have time to shower!

They are perfect for all ages, not just adult!

In fact the creator of Qwikshower created these FOR kids to use after gym class! (how perfect is that?! I know one or two kids in my high school class who could have benefited from these wipes! I'mjustsayin!)

I threw a couple in my purse when I received them. While in transit to drop Aidyn off at his dads, we had a bit of a messy accident! In order to keep him happy I purchase him a treat for the ride there. Like always it ended up mostly on him! Remembering I had my QwikShower Wipes I grabbed them and got to work. He was clean and fresh smelling in no time!

I loved that they are more durable and larger then baby wipes! Plus the single use packaging is perfect for keeping in your purse without all the bulk of a wipe container!

I was already in love with the product when I came across a site via Chelsea. The site www.anysoldier.com is a website dedicated to connecting Soldiers serving overseas with people back home. You can visit the website find a solider, see what his or her "needs" are and send them a care package! One of the things I seen over and over that was requested was "Baby wipes" since they don't always have access to a shower! How incredibly ironic was it that I was reviewing this product AND I stumbled upon this website?

So I contacted the company to see if they would be interested in donating some wipes for my care packages! Within minutes of sending the email, I got a response! They 100% support the troops and are sending me 50 QwikShower wipes to be included in my care packages!!!!

I was blown away!!!

I am not only impressed with the product, but with the company!

I'm giving them a great big thumbs up!!!

THANK YOU QwikShower Wipes!

If you are interested in purchasing your own QwikShower wipes you can visit their website here! (Bonus:They offer free shipping!!!)

Also I would like to say....

Happy Veterans Day! I would love to thank every man and woman who has served our country! I am so honored to live here, and to have the freedom that they have fought so hard to give us! I am also thankful to all of the military families! They give up just as much as they wait for their solider to come home! With all my heart I give thanks! Not only today, but EVERY day :)!

Beautiful

2010-11-10T11:27:00.000-08:00

By far one of the sweetest youtube videos I have ever seen!

I work with people who have special needs every day. I see what an asset they are to their communities. I hope you all do too :)

Aidyn loved the video also.

When it finished he said "You're my special mama!" :)

double "AWWWWW"

Potty talk

2010-11-09T18:14:00.000-08:00

So I'm back on the wagon.

1500 calories
TONS of water
Exercise
No ice tea-lemonades :(((

Ya, THAT wagon.

I'm happy to be back in control of everything..

BUT

I seriously have to pee all the time.

Maybe a gallon of water every two minutes is not the smartest idea!

I am drinking water so I dont look pregnant, but by drinking all this water I feel pregnant.

BAH!

The never ending cycle.

As long as I am NOT pregnant, I'll be okay! :)

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2010-11-08T13:43:00.000-08:00

My Dads birthday was a few days ago, but I had to wait for a certain someone to get home so we could create his Birthday video!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY! WE LOVEEEE YOUUU!!!

Dear Aidyn,

2010-11-07T20:08:00.000-08:00

Dear Aidyn,

I picked you up from your Dad today.

I love the way you rush to me, so excited to see me.

You hug me with the passion and excitement only a child can have.

You held my face and told me I looked pretty.

My heart swelled as I kissed your cheeks.

Once in the car, I cranked the heat and listened to your three year old rambling.

You talked about hunting with your dad.

You talked about church.

You talked about Sadie, your puppy.

Then you talked about "her".

Daddy's girlfriend.

I can tell even at three you struggle with wanting to like her, and wanting to be loyal to me.

You test the waters, to make sure its okay.

I want you to know that it is.

I want you to know that just because you like her, doesn't mean you dont love me.

I know you do.

Just as I love you.

I do not feel threatened.

My place is forever set.

You finished by saying:

"You are my mommy... and I am your son... thats how it works!"

I smiled, both hands on the steering wheel, with tears in my eyes, and said "Thats exactly how it works."

Nothing will ever change that.

Lots of people will come into your life..

Some will stay,

and others may not.

But you and me son..

well thats a forever thing....

and "Thats just how it works!"

I love you baby!

To the moon and back,

Mommy

skype?

2010-11-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

Who wants to have a skype date?

Are you interested...?

2010-11-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

I am going to first state that I still FULLY believe in Thanksgiving Comes First! I still plan on buying NO Christmas presents and I will not be putting up any Christmas decor until AFTER Thanksgiving...

That being said...

One of my favorite things about the holiday season is spending time with my family and hanging Ornaments on our Christmas tree. Each piece has a memory. My mom purchases an ornament for us every year, and every year it is something that reminds her of us. I treasure every single one she has purchased because I know she really thinks about each one of us when she buys them!

So I have decided to host an Ornament Swap on my blog!!!!

You have until Wednesday, November 24 to sign up to participate in the swap! The day after Thanksgiving I will post the list of partners. You can contact each other to exchange addresses, then you can start sending out your ornaments! (for an example of how it'll work check it out here)

If you are interested please comment below with your name and email address! Simple as that!

I am planning on swapping more then once! You can too! Just let me know how many times you want to be matched up when commenting! :)

Love you guys and have a GREAT weekend!!!

CUTE KID CONTEST :)))

2010-11-04T14:46:00.000-07:00

HAVE YOU ENTERED YOUR CUTIE YET?!?!?!?!

If not read the details below and GET GOING!!!!

There are even more sponsors! Check them out to see the goods!

$500 dollar prize pack for the winner and fabulous runner up prizes as well!

Unexpected Surprises is proud to host the first Cutest Kid Contest with Freckles and Fudge .
Get ready to create your post and submit your links here to show us your cutest kid. One entry per household/blog. 3 lucky cute kids will win prizes from our lovely sponsors below.

To Enter:

-You must follow both hosts Freckles and Fudge, Unexpected Surprises via GFC.

-You must write a post about your cute kid, including a CURRENT picture (s) and details about why your kid is the cutest and should win this prize. Be fun and creative.

-You must include in your post that you are participating in this event and link back to both hosts.

-Please grab this button to spread the word.

The Prize-

The 1st place winner of this contest will be receiving a prize package of over $500 which includes gifts from our lovely sponsors below. Please check them out and see what amazing items they have to offer. Gift Cards and Certificates may also be thrown in (depending on size and availability).

2nd Place Prize Includes a $50 Etsy Shop Gift Certificate

3rd Place Prize Includes a $25 Etsy Shop Gift Certificate.

This contest ends December 20, 2010 at 12am est.

Thanks to our Very Lovely Sponsors- Please be sure to visit each and every one of them.

P.S to vote for your favorite and see the cuties click the link "VOTE HERE!!!!" above to vote and read the posts!

Be Sure To Submit ALL Entries HERE

Click The Linky

My room...

2010-11-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

check it out:

When I moved in the walls were already green.

I'm not going to complain much, I live here for free..

BUT I am looking forward to my brother moving back home, because we are doing a deep clean/paint job/face lift when he gets here!

I'm thinking of changing rooms, and colors.

I love my room, but I think I want something light and airy.

I think I'll be moving the paintings and the chase back to the living room...

What do you think?

Any ideas?

VOTE!

2010-11-02T12:09:00.000-07:00

I voted....

See! I even got the sticker to prove it!

Now....

I want YOU to go out and Vote! :)
Whether you are Republican, Democrat, or Independent I encourage you to get out and vote! Just as we have rights we also have responsibilities as a country to go out there and be the voice of the people.. of our cause... and our generation! I am a proud citizen of the United States and I consider it an honor and a privilege to have had the opportunity to participate in this election! Not only did I vote for myself, but I voted for those who are not old enough to vote. For the decisions our elected officials make today WILL effect the generations of tomorrow!

So get out there perform your civic duty! :)

and..

HAPPY ELECTION DAY! :)

Thanksgiving Comes First

2010-11-02T10:44:00.000-07:00

My first instinct after Halloween crafts was to start planning Christmas projects.

In fact over a week ago I almost impulsed bought an entire rack of silver Christmas ornaments.

When I saw all the Christmas lights my pulse pounded and my eyes got big and I could barely contain myself.

That night I called up BD and we set to making plans for Aidyn for Christmas..

What should we buy him?

Who would buy what...

So on and so fourth..

When we got our first taste of winter snow I wanted to blast "Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas..."

and then BAM!

It was like I ran straight into a reality check.

Its only the beginning of November.

There are still pumpkins on our porch steps.

Halloween candy has barely been eaten.

Thanksgiving is just less then a month away.

How is it that Christmas keeps coming faster and faster?

What happened to enjoying each holiday as it came?

To really stop and remember the REAL reason to every season.

After reading THIS post, written by my Mom, it reminded me once again to stop and take a breather.

To slow it all down.

To not get so wrapped up in the spending and commercialism of the holidays, but instead give to those less fortunate, be a good friend, smile at strangers, and enjoy the time as a family.

So as a family we are going to work together to slow the holidays down.

We are going to enjoy Thanksgiving first, and then worry about Christmas.

I can't wait for the Christmas season but for now I'm just going to stop and smell the "pumpkin pie" before moving on to the "pine tree".

If you'd like to read about the inspiration for all this you can check Jim's post at his blog Suldog! I think he could inspire you too! :) Together we can all stop the flood of Christmas before we've even sat down to Thanksgiving dinner! Just think how great it will feel to just enjoy each holiday as it comes without feeling rushed to move on to the next!!

A real love story..

2010-11-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a Princess...

She was a happy girl.

She had lots of friends, and an amazing family.

She met a man who she thought was her Prince Charming.

She fell in love.

Little did she know, she had yet to meet her real prince.

A few months later she was pregnant.

She gave birth to a beautiful little Prince.

Soon he became her whole world.

He grew and grew and grew.

He grew up and decided that being a Prince really wasn't for him.

But the Princess loved him anyways.

He decided he'd rather be a pirate.

The princess realized that no matter what he decided to be that she would love him anyways and that he was and is her real Prince Charming!
And they lived Happily Ever After!!!

pa-pa-party time!!!!

2010-10-31T13:36:00.000-07:00

Have I told you recently how much I love Halloween?

Well...

I do!

Pretty much I just love any excuse to dress like a Disney princess, drink excess amounts of liquor, and take tons of cute pictures..

but isn't that exactly what Halloween is for?

I think so too! :)

Without further ado...

2010-10-31T12:54:00.000-07:00

AIDYNS HALLOWEEN COSTUME DEBUT!!!!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

FROM MY FAMILY TO YOURS! :)

Happy Halloween weekend!

2010-10-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to stop by and wish you all a very Happy Halloween weekend! :) I am going to be MIA for a few days, but I hope you all know that

I

L
O
V
E

Y
O
U
!
!
!

Eat lots of candy, wear cute costumes, and take lots of pictures! :) Because you know thats what I'll be doing!

:))))

Aidyn's Halloween costume:

2010-10-28T07:46:00.000-07:00

Last year Aidyn had not 1, but THREE Halloween costumes!!!

1st one was for our "Harvest party" at school. Since not all the children celebrated Halloween we changed the theme to a country-esque type party! Aidyn and I embraced our Midwest roots with flannel and cowboy boots!

2nd was a makeshift costume for the big SPOOKTACULAR! Since I had ordered his actual Halloween costume online too late, we had to come up with something for the night. With a little creativity we came up with my favorite costume of all time:

Cutest 80's rocker, EVA!

Last but not least, my little pilot! But of course, you're all VERY familiar with this one:

Now on to this year.....

Wait..

Did you really think I was going to tell you what it is?

HAHA!

I don't think so!

Stay tuned this weekend, for the big reveal!

A little bit stronger..

2010-10-27T21:21:00.000-07:00

could a song be any more perfect for how I feel about BD?

Aidyn says:

2010-10-27T07:31:00.000-07:00

"I wish we should have a baby! You'd have to take a deep breathes a lot times to have a baby"

Just in case...

2010-10-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Just in case you totally started to miss my face...

then there is your daily dose of "Brittany"!

Now you can carry on and have yourself a terrific Tuesday! :)

LOVEE YOUUU!

p.s. thanks for all the sweet comments on yesterdays posts! I may have never seen your beautiful faces, but I treasure you all! :)

REVISED CONTEST DETAILS!!!

2010-10-25T22:09:00.000-07:00

I am proud to re-introduce you to the "Cutest kid" contest/giveaway! We made it a little more simple and A LOT less confusing! I hope to see you all participating! :)

Unexpected Surprises is proud to host the first Cutest Kid Contest with Freckles and Fudge.
Get ready to create your post and submit your links here to show us your cutest kid. One entry per household/blog. 3 lucky cute kids will win prizes from our lovely sponsors below.

To Enter:

-You must follow both hosts Freckles and Fudge, Unexpected Surprises via GFC.

-You must write a post about your cute kid, including a CURRENT picture (s) and details about why your kid is the cutest and should win this prize. Be fun and creative. Then link up here via the Mclinky!

-You must include in your post that you are participating in this event and link back to both hosts.

-Please grab this button to spread the word.

The Prize-

Once you start linking up there will be a poll for voters to click on! It will be really simple and easy. Voters can only vote once, and the winner will be announced after the 20th! :)

See!? Easy peasy lemon squeezey!

Make it fun and creative! :) As a fun incentive I will feature my favorite posts randomly through out the contest! :)

Make sure to check out the sponsors! Each of their shops are INCREDIBLE! I promise you will NOT be disappointed! :)

RIP

2010-10-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

I am going through a grieving process.

I am grieving over the loss of a friend.

She hasn't passed away, but our friendship has.

Before you start to think of me as being overly dramatic, hear me out.

Have you ever had a friend that you just connect with?

Someone who you meet and instantly you know you'll be friends forever?

Someone who gets you through a really terrible time in your life?

Someone whom you share your deepest and darkest secrets with?

I am lucky to have several REALLY good friends.

When I moved to FL I knew NO one. (besides my family)

It was therapy in and of itself to move there.

To start fresh.

To find myself again.

In the process of finding myself I met a girl who quickly became "that" friend.

Even after a rocky start I knew that she and I were meant to meet.

We swiftly became inseparable.

We laughed some nights so hard that I would almost pee my pants.

That belly laugh that completely consumes you, causing you to go red in the face and do that gawd awful snort you inherited from your mom. (or wait.. is that just me?)

She held me as I cried.

On Aidyns birthday I wept in her arms. Being an entire country away from my baby, and she was the one holding me.

We worked hard together.

We traveled together.

We flirted together.

We drank wine, and watched movies.

She was my other half.

She made my FL time what it was.

But then it ended.

About a month before I moved I felt her withdraw from me.

She spent more time with a co-worker of mine, and made excuses for not calling.

She stopped telling me her secrets.

She stopped inviting me places.

It was almost worse then a breakup!

It was miserable.

When I confronted her about it, she always made me feel as if "I" was the needy one.

Like I was making it up in my head.

When I left it was bitter sweet.

I knew I would miss her like crazy, but at the same time I already felt as if our friendship was over.

We talked only once or twice from Feb-June when I went back to visit.

Our relationship seemed forced at best.

She had her own plans, and I had mine.

BUT I wanted it to be there.

IT was... sometimes..

I loved laying with her in her bed and talking about past memories.

I loved having a drink at the bar with friends.

I loved getting cuban food at the ghetto but delicious restauraunt on campus.

Then I left again.

AND NOTHING.

She quit answering my calls

She quit replying to my texts.

It would take months to get a response via facebook.

So I decided to ask her about it.

I sent her a message saying "Hey I miss you! You havent returned my phone calls in over four months! Whats up with that?! Totally not cool! Love you! Brittany"

I kept it light hearted, but it was a last ditch effort at a relationship.

She responded by saying something to the effect of: "I know, I've been super busy! I'll call you soon. .but I'm happy and thats all that matters!"

It was like a slap in the face!

After a long discussion with my mom I ended up deleting her off my face book, from my cell phone, and "out of my life."

I know that seems so "drastact" or juvinal.. but..

I needed to!

Sometimes there are people that are toxic in your life.

Either what they do or DONT do in my case brings you down.

From there I ended up facebook purging!

I went from over 500 friends to less then 250!

I deleted anyone I dont talk to.

I deleted people who added me from parties, and I never spoke to again.

I deleted ex boyfriends.

I deleted old school mates..

etc..

It was the most freeing feeling!

I think I could even delete more!

It was like a cyber funeral!

I got rid of all the people who were weighing me down.

Now I feel more confident to express myself on my facebook.

I feel as if the only people left are people who raise me up, and make me feel good about myself!

So as tough as it was to say goodbye to that old friend (FB if any of you remember her) it was something that I needed to do.

It may not be a forever goodbye, but for right now I think its the best thing for me.

Have you ever had to get rid of a friend?

How did you feel, and how did you do it?

Because some days like today when I see her profile picture and see that she has a boyfriend, and I know NOTHING about it.. I just wish I could call her up, drive to her house, crawl into bed and gossip with her until morning..

and knowing I can't just plain SUCKS!

Gettin' Snuggie!

2010-10-23T20:05:00.000-07:00

A few years ago the world was introduced to the...

SNUGGIE!

Shortly after they got the kids in on the action...

The Snugglette!

Don't forget the littlest members of the family...

OR your four legged friends!

They even incorporated the biggest sports fans!

Then of course there are some for the practical members of society...

So as you can see there is a snuggie for just about everyone!

I bet right now as you cozy up in your snuggie enjoying its snuggalicious warmth you think to yourself:

"It just can't get any better then this....!"

WELL...

Thats where you would be wrong!

In fact I think the SNUGGIE SUTRA should come standard with all adult snuggie purchases!

Because really.....

who could resist that?

If you'd like to be prepared and own your own copy of the Snuggie Sutra you can pick one up at your local Barnes and Noble or for easy online ordering you may purchase yours here!

I'm sure you'll thank me later :) (bahahahahahaha!)

Good news..

2010-10-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

So as most of you know I am a BIG fan of "Wedding blogs".

I love to hear about the planning process.

I jot down good ideas.

I lust after rings.

Between wedding blogs, magazines, and wedding tv shows I pretty much have my wedding day planned out.

Now all I need is a man.

Minor detail of course!

So meanwhile I decided to play my own version of Say Yes to the Dress.

What better place then at the local GW?!?

The sales rack was stacked, and ladies and gents I am pleased to announce..

I SAID YES TO THE DRESS!!!!

I didn't feel the "This is it moment" until I adorned that AWESOME veil...but with my mom standing at least twenty feet away from me .. I knew... THIS IS IT!

Then I looked down and seen one gnarly stain and a few rips.

GW is pretty solid on the "as is" rule, so I grudgingly returned my dream dress back to the rack.

Which is probably best...

because how scared do you think a man would be if I showed up on our first date in a full length-long sleeved-wedding dress?

THE WINNER IS....

2010-10-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

I am beyond thrilled with the results from Random Number Generator today!

Not only do I get to giveaway an awesome piece of jewelry..

I get to give it away to my best friend!!!

My best friend is also an avid Unexpected Surprises follower! This is the first time she has entered one of my giveaways.. and guess what?

SHE WON!!!

I already tried to call her, but got her VM!

This will be the first time I get to hear someones excitement over winning!

EEK! Can I call all of you when you win on my blog?

Thanks again Molly! Your pieces are lovely! I will send you the winners info, and the two of you can discuss the details! :)

Well I am off to shop with my mom!

Hope ya'll have a fabulous weekend!

Apologies...

2010-10-21T15:42:00.000-07:00

There were a few people who took offense to the word "tolerance" yesterday.

The post was NEVER in any sense of the word meant to offend anyone.

I believe they took the word Tolerate to mean: "putting up with" but that is not at all what I take the word to mean.

Here is the definition I found on the internet:

tol·er·ance (tlr-ns)n.

1. The capacity for or the practice of recognizing and respecting the beliefs or practices of others.

I think that pretty much sums it up!

Sorry to any or all people who may have taken that word the wrong way!

HUGS! Brittany!

Tolerance

2010-10-20T14:37:00.000-07:00

I spent some time with a close friend of mine last night.

I can easily say that she is in deed my best friend.

We have a lot in common, and share a lot of memories.

As much as we agree on, we disagree on that much more.

Even with such differing beliefs we remain the best of friends.

Sometimes I wonder how we have been able to remain friends in the midst of such differences.

Then I realize that regardless of whether or not we agree... we still love each other.

We practice tolerance.

Tolerance is not something you are born with.

It is something that is learned.

Last night the topic of homosexuality was brought up.

I won't go into details of our conversation, but the thought of "how would I feel if my own son told me he was gay?" was brought up.

With out a skip in breath, and with no question in my mind, my only response was:

I'd tell him I love him.

NO. MATTER. WHAT.

My love for him does not come with exceptions.

There is no fine print with the love I have for him.

There is NOTHING that could separate him from my love.

He KNOWS this. (as much as a three year old can.)

He will continue to know this.

FOREVER.

I will TELL him this often!

I will remind him until he just knows it.

No question in his mind.

I want him to know this so that if he walks into an environment where he is told that he isn't good enough....

if he is told he doesn't belong..

if he is told that there is something wrong with him..

That he KNOWS without a doubt that he is AWESOME...

That there is someone out there that would miss him more then words can explain...

That there is someone who is there to listen..

to comfort..

to talk to..

That there is NOTHING he can't come to me with.

Because I NEVER want to be standing at his casket regretting not telling him all of these things.

When I mentioned that tolerance is a learned behavior it is because it was taught to me.

I knew from the moment that I was born, that I was loved.

That my mother and father wanted me.

I knew that I could come to them with anything.

I knew that no matter what ANYONE else said or thought.. that at the end of the day I was loved.

They taught me to love others.

They taught me to respect others.

They did not try and hide the differences of others, but embraced them.

I learned to do the same.

In light of the many recent suicides due to harassing and bullying for WHATEVER reason it has brought heartache to my heart, and the sense of wanting justice.

BUT where do you start?

How to get justice for a life lost too soon?

I think it is by starting in our homes.

It is by teaching tolerance for people and NO tolerance for bullying or disrespect.

Its is by listening.

It is by being AVAILABLE to listen.

The only thing that would be harder then losing my son, is knowing that he caused another child to take their life.

Recently at the dinner table, my niece turned to her brother that is a different color of skin, and said "I like the color of your skin Jordan."

My son followed with the same words.

I love that they are only three, four, and five and yet they are aware and accepting of differences.

Because when you teach tolerance you not only teach acceptance.. but you teach love.

Modge podge of thoughts:

2010-10-20T13:27:00.000-07:00

. Remember when I won this giveaway? I finally received my $100 visa gift card in the mail! To say that I was excited would be an understatement! EEK! I knew just what to do with it! My computer has been broken for the last couple of months! In the mean time I have had to share a computer with my mom. So with the extra cash I was able to bring my laptop in and get it fixed! It is so nice to be back in business with my (new) old computer!
. I also have some VERY big news! Since February I have been working as a nanny for my niece and nephew. Recently my Mom, due to medical necessity, dropped her hours at work. She will only be working two days a week, one of which my step-dad will be able to care for the kids. So I am no longer needed in the home. I had originally planned to only nanny for a few months, so I was excited to be able to look for a new job! Well last week I applied with a company I worked for in 07-08 working with mentally handicapped adults. It was to this day, one of the best jobs I ever had! A few days later I got a call back, interviewed, and was hired! I completed my orientation today, and start on the job training next week! :) I am so thankful that I was hired so quickly, and that I get to work in a job field I love!

. The bonus to the above is that my son will be able to stay home with my mom! Which means NO DAYCARE! Not only will we be able to swap child care services resulting in no daycare fees, but also my son will be with someone I trust! I don't have to question what values or habits he will be learning! I know that my mom will continue to work with him, and teach him new things! I am SO very blessed!

.I am beyond excited about Halloween! I am so excited for Aidyn to wear his mystery costume! Halloween is one of my favorite holidays... okay wait.. I pretty much love EVERY holiday! :)

. My brother is contemplating moving back home from FL! My brother and I are SUPER DUPER close! I miss him so much, and I would be THRILLED if he did! I am praying that he makes the decision that is right for him... but this may mean that in the future the two of us would find a place together! :)
. I have a SUPER DUPER DE DUPER exciting contest coming up VERY shortly! I have been working with VIC from Freckles and Fudge to bring you "Mommy Bloggers" out there some pretty awesome swag (over $500 worth!)! Stay tuned for details!

. You only have until midnight tomorrow to enter THIS giveaway! Get on it! :))

. I hope you know I love you! I have this weekend all to myself and plan on catching up on blogs all weekend! eek! Can't wait!

Happy Wednesday!

Obsessed much?

2010-10-19T15:22:00.000-07:00

So three really was a crowd....

and I kind of got a bit obsessed...

I needed to keep going..

so...

I added to my Halloween family:
A mummy and a black cat joined the crew! :)

I also made MY family:A Mommy and Aidyn pumpkin!
Kinda looks like me, right?
I also painted another spider one for Aidyn's (paternal) Grandma! :) I think she'll love it!
Now my dilemma is.. What to do with my last unpainted pumpkin?

Any suggestions?

I promise to NOT blog about pumpkins tomorrow! :)

Three amigos!

2010-10-18T14:32:00.000-07:00

I felt like Frankie was a little lonely..

So I needed to make him some friends :)

Meet Edward, and Wendy! :)

Is three a crowd?

I may just need to whip up a fourth!

I told you I caught the crafting bug!

Words in my mouth winner + randomness

2010-10-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

So I laughed my arse off at EVERY single comment you left on my Saturday post! You girls are toooooo funny! :) There was one person who stuck out, because you can tell that she TOTALLY reads my blog! :) I don't know if I agree with #1, but the rest are spot on! ha ha!

Jill at HEY BARBIE (and she REALLY does looks like Barbie!!) delivered the following:

1 -- This face gets me whatever I want
2 -- He definitely looked better on match dot com
3 -- Found a hotttie
4 -- This date sucks. Another one for the online dating hall of shame

Thanks to number four, I have started contemplating putting a online dating hall of shame category in the above pages! That could be kind of funny! :) What'ya think?

Now for all you Minnesota girls (and those that just wish they were...) check out this little diddy:

Hope ya'll are having a fabulous Monday! :) Only three more days to enter my giveaway! GO ENTER NOW!

PUMPKINS!

2010-10-17T11:51:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite things about Halloween is the decor!

I love being able to get crafty and create something for the holiday!

Today I rounded up some supplies and got to work!

I don't like to toot my own horn.. (okay.. yes I do..)

but....

TOOT (freakin) TOOT!!!

They turned out pretty darn awesome, if I do say so myself :)

Now I have the crafting bug, and I can't seem to get rid of it!

What kind of things are you doing to prepare for Halloween?

P.s. Have you entered my giveaway yet? If not, what are you waiting for? Enter here!

linking up with Jen at CrafOManiac Monday!

Put words in my mouth!

2010-10-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

So as you are all VERY aware of by now, I am obsessed with my webcam!

In fact the screen saver on the computer is a shrine to my self portraits.

It sort of sick.

I'll add that to the many reasons I need to see a therapist.

In the mean time, what shall we do with all these pictures?

Play a game!

duh!

Below are four pictures with word bubbles.

Your mission, if you chose to accept, is to put words in my mouth!

What do you think I said/I am saying/or want to say...

Be as funny/silly/vulgar/sweet/ridiculous as you want!

I'll feature my top favorites on Monday! :)

Hope you guys have a fan-freakin-tastic weekend! LY!

GIVEAWAY TIME ONCE MORE!!!!

2010-10-15T08:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Fridays ladies and gents! :)

Hope you have had a fabulous week!

Its time for the weekend!!! WOO to the HOO!

Now lets put a cherry on top and try and give one of you lucky readers some awesome swag!

I was surfing through the wonderful world of etsy....

When I stumbled upon this little number and fell in love!

It reminded me of fall!

I quickly approached Molly about a giveaway.. and guess what?

She said Yes!

The lovely Molly has generously agreed to give one of my lucky readers their choice of her antique button rings!

Aren't they adorable?!

There are plenty more on her etsy shop!

There is sure to be one to match your personality and style!

I love that she uses such simple items to create such fabulous pieces! She is a master craftsman!

To top it off her pieces are affordable for any budget! (more Christmas present ideas!) I think they'd make great stocking stuffers!

If you live around the Wisconsin area you can also check out her website to find information on where you can purchase her items in person! There is a list of upcoming craft fairs she will be selling her goods at here!

So do you want to know how you can win?

Here are the details:

Be a follower of Unexpected Surprises..

and...

Check out Molly's etsy shop and let me know which ring you would purchase if you are the winner!

For additional entries:

Blog about it, and leave a link telling me so! (3 entries)

Purchase something from Molly's shop (5 entries per purchase)

Follow Molly's blog (1 entry)

Follow Molly on Facebook (1 entry)

Please leave a separate comment for each entry!

:)

Good luck! Entries closed as of midnight on Thursday the 21st ! Winner announced Friday the 22nd at 12pm ct standard time!

Love you guys! :)

Fall family photos!

2010-10-14T09:12:00.000-07:00

Is it sad that I am already thinking about holiday cards?

I don't think so either!

So...

My lovely cousin Jaclyn came by yesterday to shoot fall photos of Aidyn and myself!

The weather was perfect!

BUT

Where were the leaves?

My step dad being the ultra handy man had already raked and removed all the leaves!

Seems everyone else had the same idea!

So we headed on over to the local park to take pictures in the gazebo and brought along a few props as well:

They turned out great, but I still wanted some "leaf" pictures!

So after we drove around town for a while, we finally we spotted a great location!

One of the churches in town had big beautiful trees with gorgeous colored leaves surrounding the front!

We pulled over, and got to work!

AND WORK IT WAS!

We had plenty of pictures like this:

Before we got pictures that looked like this! TOTALLY WORTH IT!

I was even able to crop a few to get fabulous picture of Aidyn as well!

Now my biggest hurdle is trying to decide which one to use in my holiday cards!

In fact I am going to have voting for my cards later this week!! :)

P.S. I AM HOSTING ANOTHER GIVEAWAY TOMORROW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GET EXCITED!!!!!!!!

Not just fartsy....

2010-10-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

He's artsy too! :)

Aidyn drew a picture of himself and me! He is standing on his head, and I have big rainbow colored hair!

I think it is my very favorite picture EVER!

He's quite the artist for only be three! Dontchya think?

BAHAHAHA!

2010-10-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I was checking my email when I was notified that I had an email on the online dating website I subscribe to.

I don't check it every day.

In fact I'm pretty much over it all.

So I clicked over and realized I had a half a dozen unread emails.

Immediately I see a message from THIS guy.

Remember him?

yuck!

We haven't spoken since that horrible date.

AND THIS is the conversation that took place:

"Sorry about that night."

"Its fine."

"How have you been?"

"Good. Thanks!"

"So.. I think we should get together again."

WHAT?!

"Why? You didn't seem remotely interested in me."

"I know. That probably hurt you, huh?"

"Not really!"

"Well I didn't give us a chance.. and I want to now."

"Look. The feeling was mutual."

"What? You didn't like me?"

"well.."

and without letting me respond..

HE BLOCKS ME!

Its too bad!

I was about to send him that review of our date.

Think that would have been too harsh?

Nah, me either!

:)

Halloween!

2010-10-11T17:24:00.000-07:00

Is it bad that I convinced my son not to be Buzz light year for Halloween?

See, he really wanted to be Buzz...

But..

The Buzz costume was SUPER dorky.

It was one of those one piece suits..

and..

I figured half the boys his age would sporting them.

So I did what I usually do when I am in public and want my way...

BRIBERY.

He tried on a super duper cute costume.

I gushed and gushed.

The costume lady gushed and gushed.

I knew that this was it.

He was going to be wearing this costume for Halloween if it was the last thing I did.

He still wanted the Buzz costume.

I could tell we were on the verge of a battle...

maybe even a tantrum...

UGH!

So..

Whats a mom to do?

"If you get the other costume, I'll let you get a sword!"

and like any typical boy..

It was a done deal!

Tip number 132 for new parents: Some times bribery is easier then a crying and screaming toddler!!

and I'm Mom enough to admit it!

Ask and...

2010-10-09T18:40:00.000-07:00

you shall receive :)

Check out the fabulous desserts we created for the party today:

Cupcake Flavors:

Home made chocolate cake with home made butter cream frosting.

Home made chocolate cake, Marshmallow cream frosting, crushed graham crackers, and a dark chocolate kiss.

Home made white cake with cream cheese frosting.

Home made marble cake with chocolate cream cheese frosting.

Sugar cookies with home made butter cream frosting.

YUMMO!

My mom is a fabulous baker, and we make an awesome team!

The party went off without a hitch, and completely surprised my uncle :)! Mission accomplished!

So ma.... what next? BRING IT!

HERE WE GO AGAIN!!!

2010-10-08T10:25:00.000-07:00

So remember when we made 300+ cupcakes?

Well my Mom signed us up for ANOTHER challenge!

This time for my Uncle Jerry! He is turning 50 and we are surprising him this weekend!

He is a HUGE sports fan!

So the party is Vikings and Twins themed!

Last night we were up until almost midnight creating the dessert!

I turned over 100+ cookies into footballs and baseballs!

EVERYTHING is coming together, and we are pretty psyched, but there is still TONS to do!

So bare with me, and just know I'll be by when I have time!

Love you all! Have a fantastic weekend! Enjoy a cupcake and think of me!

Littlest Twins fan!

2010-10-07T16:35:00.000-07:00

This video was taken well past bed time! We were watching the Twins vs the Yankees! Aidyn was VERY upset after a home run that scored two runs, causing the Yankees to be in the lead!

Check it out!

Don't you love how he calls the "yankees" the "Wankees"?! lmao!

I had to control myself from laughing! He made me proud!

GO TWINS!!!

Aidyn-mommy photo montage!

2010-10-06T08:24:00.001-07:00

I'd like to remember
I'd like to know all you are
I'd like to know everything you'll be

Where will you go? What will you do?
When the world's right in front of you

When I think of how slowly life passes by
Then I'll blink and you're growing
No longer a child

What I can do, to capture this moment in time
Is to sing you a lullaby

I like to watch you dream
I like to touch your face
I like to hold you in a sweet embrace

When will you laugh? When will you cry?
When you need a special place to hide

When I think of how slowly life passes by
Then I'll blink and you're growing
No longer a child

What I can do, to capture this moment in time
Is to sing you a lullaby

When I think of how slowly life passes by
Then I'll blink and you're growing
No longer a child

What I can do, to capture this moment in time
Is to sing you a lullaby

Love this boy! :) What did I ever do to be blessed to this extent? To have a son that loves to cuddle. Who tells me he loves me a million times a day, and who gives the best kisses in the entire world.

Listen to the song here: Its BEAUTIFUL! Lyrics by Plumb!

Linking up with Vic at WHATS UP WEDNESDAY!

She's my home girl! Check her out!

The Aidyn Song

2010-10-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

I shared this song with you a while ago, but wanted to update with a video of Aidyn and I singing it together :)! Hope you enjoy! :))

Lyrics:

Aidyn, Aidyn my little baby boy.

I sure love you, you're my pride and joy.

As long as I live I'll never love no one..

as much as I love you, my little honey bun!

I have sang that song to him almost every night since he's was born.

Do you have any special songs or traditions you do with your children?

**Sorry I've been sort of video crazy lately**

Dear...

2010-10-04T10:16:00.000-07:00

Dear carbs,

As long as I love you...

I will continue to look like this:

Can you please stop tasting so darn good!

mmkay? Thanks!

Signed,
pasta lover

Dear Aidyn,

I will never ever ever eat anything you cook.

EVER!

Signed,
I'd rather go hungry.

Dear Fall,

Thank you for being so beautiful..

I love you.

Signed,
FALLing in love!

Dear Small town Minnesota,

I love all your festivals.

You provide so much entertainment for the little ones.

BUT you're a little hard on my pocket book.

I'm ready for free fun! (ie: sledding!)

Signed,
Going broke

Dear Halloween,

Hurry up and get here!

I can't wait to dress up! (p.s. I will NOT be snooki! Its too inappropriate for trick or treating with Aidyn... I know bummer!)

Signed
Snow white

Dear Purseblogger,

Thank you for featuring me today!

I love you for that!

signed,
Go check that out!

Dear Blog friends,

I am back to blogging!

I had a much needed break!

I love you all! :)

signed,
Stopping by soon :))

VLOG!

2010-10-02T16:31:00.001-07:00

So this video really sucks.

In fact you probably wont understand a thing I am saying.

I HATE WEBCAMS!

I tried to caption everything for you...

and at least you can see my face! :)) because I know you love it!!!

Couldnt understand a word?

Wanna know the jist of the video?

I got a really great scarf through a scarf swap! I LOVEEEEEEE it!

Thanks again Ria!

p.s. Go check her out! Seriously her blog is great, and she obviously has fantastic taste!