Daydreams of a Coastal Girl

A New Phase...

2012-02-10T12:34:00.001-08:00

Wood, Distressed Temple Blocks I made for my YW's lesson for each girl.

This years Valentine's Cards for the boys classmates.

My very first Trifle! Love desserts with fresh fruit!

Blueberry & White Chocolate Scones! Yum!!

I have pretty much worked non-stop since I was 15 years old (my first job was at a tanning salon because it was the closest and "safest" place for me to work at 15) As a new wife I worked, while having babies I worked. Carl has always been very supportive of me and when I told him I felt like I needed a break to be JUST a mom and wife he was totally onboard although he wasn't sure what I would be doing with my days...I've made a mistake by keeping a clean and organized home while working. He said I made it look so easy, so what would I do now?

Holy cow am I busy! I'm not even sure myself how I've done it all these years to be honest. But I feel so much better! I feel like I have a little more time for myself which means I am a much better, happier, more patient mom (to all boys) and wife (to a cop, a very stressful occupation if you didn't already know.) ;-D

So, I AM keeping myself busy with cooking, crafting, sewing, organizing & volunteering and quite honestly LOVING it! Now I'll even have more time to update this blog more frequently! Yeah

Have a great weekend everyone!

~Kristen

Try and try again!

2012-01-10T18:21:00.000-08:00

Oh man, sewing is NOT easy! Especially when you're using fabric with a pattern! I love this chevron print...but by the end of the day, (cause that's how long it took me!) I was ready to set it on F-I-R-E! Silly of me for thinking that one semester of home ec in the 7th grade would be enough for me to know how to sew! ;-D

I figured this part out...it was supposed to have pockets...emphasis on "SUPPOSED TO"! I was so bummed that my pea size sewing brain couldn't figure it out!

Here is the finished product! Luckily the son who took the picture for me had unsteady hands and it came out a bit blurry. Up close, its just not the same as the skirt below!!

Thanks to Cori for the inspiration!! Now off to see if UCC offers a sewing class...I desperately want to learn!

It's Tradition

2011-12-10T21:18:00.001-08:00

It's tradition to be with friends and family...laughing!

It's tradition to climb in the back of a pickup truck and drive around

River Forks Park to look at the

beautiful display of Christmas lights!

It's NOT a tradition that I'm still not used to cold weather

and wearing loads of layers.

It's tradition to take silly pictures...

...especially one's like these!

It's tradition to always have grandma and grandpa

Oshita around to celebrate with!

It's tradition to write a letter to Santa...

...and mail it!

It's lovely to have great-grandma to celebrate with too!

It's tradition to take a picture with Santa,

and make sure he's received our letters!

A BIG thank you to grandma and grandpa for hosting our Christmas Lights Party and to the Forsloffs for joining us and making it a wonderful Christmas-y evening!

An Early-ish Start...

2011-11-15T16:40:00.001-08:00

Jones Design Company...is one of my most favorite blogs!! Not because she offers so many classy downloads for FREE, but because she has so many great ideas that really get my creative juices flowing! (The Link to her website is down below)

Jones Design Company

Martha Stewart

Jones Design Company

The Paper Mama

Vicky Dar

My Home Ideas

Houzz

The Cinderella Project

Today on my dayoff, I decided to go to a few stores in town and just sorta "window shop" for Christmas decorating ideas. I love being creative and working with a tight budget. For some reason the less money I have to work with, the more creative I get. Pinterest is a great resource for me! I'll print up a page of all the ideas I love from there and take it with me while I shop. The pictures above are just some of the ideas I'm playing with...the day after Thanksgiving (by way of tradition) is when I like to decorate the house!

When do you get started?

Thankful Chain

2011-11-03T08:53:00.001-07:00

Silver Box Creative

Birthdays, Halloween, Christmas...no matter what the Holiday we always count down to it with a chain. I love this idea from Silver Box Creative, an 'I am thankful for...' chain. It's a great way to teach our children to count their every blessing. They even offer it as a free printable here: http://silverboxcreative.com/blog/2010/11/i-am-thankful-for-printables/

Looking back...loving our life!

2011-10-20T19:49:00.000-07:00

2010 Roseburg, OR Hucrest School
2009 Thanksgiving in Ferndale, WA

2008 Lehi, UT

2007 Mililani, Oahu Hawaii

2010 Kona, Hawaii

2011 Roseburg, OR. Me and my cutie pie niece Mia

2011...Kobe & Carl in a rare "I love you brother" moment! ;-)

2011...Kobe, need I say more? He's obsessed with trying to get a six pack. Apparently "ALL" 8th grade boys show off their six-packs in the schools locker room!

Hanging with our friends! These kids have amazing friendships with the V. Family! Seriously, they ALL get along perfectly! So it's always a treat when they can come over and hang with us!

Chillin on the front porch with pizza

Some Re-Creations & Free Inspiration

2011-10-04T14:16:00.000-07:00

So, as you know I am addicted to 'Pinterest'...it is literally FREE Inspiration and everyday I check it is like receiving a new magazine in the mail! I just love it! I've been wanting to make myself one of these bags for about a year now after seeing a girl sell one on her etsy site for $85!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This re-creation cost me $2.75 and 2 hours of my time! I love it!
Here is a close up. That flower clip I made as well but is not actually for my purse. Probably for my hair or a sweater. The one for my purse will be out of an old grey T-shirt. Will post that later!

Mexican Chicken Casserole

Not only am I inspired to be creative but I'm also inspired to cook more interesting (cheap) dishes for my family! I have cooked all of these dishes over the last 3 weeks and they all surprisingly turned out great! (SO SORRY BUT FOR SOME REASON MY COMPUTER HAS NOT BEEN LETTING ME LINK ANY OF THE WEBSITES!! GRRRR. IF YOU WANNA TRY A RECIPE JUST LET ME KNOW AND I WILL SEND IT TO YOU OR YOU CAN CHECK OUT MY 'YUM' PINBOARD)

Avocado and Black Bean Salsa

Lime & Cilantro Rice (YUM)

Hawaiian Coconut Chicken

Indian Naan Bread (So yummy with curry!)

Blueberry Breakfast Cake (I made this for General Conference Weekend)

Herbed Cream Cheese and Cucumber Bites

Guacamole Bruschette

Stay tuned for some more re-creations!! The Holidays are upon us and I'm feeling my creative juices flowin!! ;-D

What We've Been Up To...

2011-09-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

Here are Carl and I before the Annual Law Enforcement Banquet, where he was nominated as 'Officer of the Year'

Our youngest, Kaleo in his first year of Flag Football! So much fun to watch!

Kobe and his best bud M. There are friends your children make that you know will last a lifetime!

The boys and I running the Umpqua 5K...I love these guys!!

This was a very hard picture to take! It was already 90 degrees and quite humid. Noone REALLY wanted to pose for me, but it was 9-11 and I wanted to capture them at this age because time just flies by too fast!!

Pinterest How I Love Thee

2011-08-16T12:06:00.001-07:00

Great chore charts!! They are laminated so no more wasting paper and ink!
I just received 3 boxes of these beautiful mason jars from my neighbor...now I know what to do with them all!! I love this idea!

Really?! So cute!

If you're like me...a little late at the whole cyber space phenoms that come out all the time...then you'll understand why I'm so excited about Pinterest.com!!

I've noticed a lot of my friends have mentioned this website over the last few months but I'm always so slow at jumping on these sorta bandwagons! So glad I'm on it now though! I won't spoil it for you too much but in a nutshell it's boards that you create with images that inspire you. Right now I'm redecorating my master bedroom...this site will help! I also like ideas about fashion...this site inspires me! So take a look. And if you need an invite lemme know...all I need is your email address!

(all pics from Pinterest...wish I could highlight to connect a link but for some reason I haven't been able to do that on my computer!

A Cali Girl and Her TOMS

2011-07-31T15:13:00.000-07:00

Metallic Tweed by TOMS. I love these wedges!! They could go with anything! These will be my Next PURCHASE!

Camel Cord Wrap Wedges

These are the one's I actually ordered because they're so versatile. I could wear them to Church, with shorts, jeans and even skirts! But the best part is that buying them will help a child in another Country get a pair of shoes too!

http://www.toms.com/our-movement/

I love the concept of this company! If you'd like to learn more you can click on the link above!

TOMS is just so 'Californian' too and makes me remember my teenage years growing up in Ventura!

I really enjoy reading Lissa's blog Keep It Simple, Keep It Fresh and have used many of her recipes that are delicious! (All of these Cali pics are from her blog!)

One of my sons friends said to me yesterday, "You always look cool with your slippahs and sunglasses, like you still should be living in Hawaii or Cali." He couldn't have been more correct.

I love being a Cali/Hawaii girl. I hope I never forget to just take it easy and enjoy life!

Have a great week friends...and enjoy SUMMER!

So Much To Do w/ So Little Time!

2011-07-19T19:07:00.001-07:00

(pic via pinterest)

I have no idea when I last posted anything on this blog...that's how busy I've been! I can't even be bothered checking on here the exact date! But as one of my favorite songs: Tonight, Tonight by Hot Chelle Rae says..."Lalala...Whatever, lalala...it doesn't matter, lalala...oh well". In the next two weeks my oldest is speaking in Church (which means I'll be helping him alot), I'm substituting one primary class, speaking in Sacrament mtg myself and then teaching another lesson in YW's...oh and did I mention I work and raise a family? But it's all good! Like it says in the quote above, "Stop thinking so much and just get on with it"...it's been one of my mantra's since I was little and Carl says it's one of the things he loves MOST about me! awwww

...and hey, please don't be offended if you call me and I don't pick up...I'm sorta in the zone! XOXO

Summer Is Here!

2011-06-20T20:46:00.001-07:00

"There is no secret to balance. You just have to feel the waves."

~Frank Herbert

Summer means lazy days by the river, toes in the sand & sunkissed skin...

it's staying up late & sleeping in...

it's giant ice cream cones & yummy BBQ's...

it's lounging in a chair reading a great book with your favorite drink...

Summer is making memories with loved ones to last a lifetime!

Thursday: Time to Clean Up

2011-06-15T21:12:00.000-07:00

It's my day off tomorrow and my home needs a serious deep clean due to some "construction" going on next door!

...and there's something about sun, blue skies & a warm breeze that motivates me to get it all done!

First up: Bathroom...below are some helpful tips to getting it done right and fast!

Sink: Use general-purpose spray cleaners or mix vinegar and water. Scrub a mildly abrasive cleanser or baking soda paste on grime. Don't use abrasives on scratchable surfaces.
Toilet and Toilet Bowl: Spray the exterior with general-purpose cleaner or vinegar and water. Sanitize the bowl with antibacterial toilet cleaner or 1/4 cup bleach to 1 gallon water.
Showerhead: To remove lime, fill a plastic bag with white vinegar. Attach over the showerhead with a rubber band. Wait 1 hour; remove vinegar, turn on water to flush. Polish with a soft cloth.
Tub and Faucets: Undiluted bleach pits porcelain. Clean with general-purpose cleaner, vinegar and water, or baking soda paste. Use stain-removing cleanser on rust.

Then the Kitchen...

To Do Daily:
Spray and wipe the refrigerator, range top, and vent hood.
Sweep the floor.
Scrub the sink with a general-purpose cleaner. Then, wipe dry.

To Do Weekly:
Mop the floor. (You may need to mop more often if young children or pets are in your household.)
Clean the exteriors of appliances.
Wipe the refrigerator door.
Scour and polish the sink.

To Do Monthly:
Wipe off the cabinet doors.
Clean the oven.
Clean the refrigerator and sanitize the refrigerator drip pan.

Quick-Cleaning Tips
Keep a spray bottle with a solution of 1 part bleach to 4 parts water or an all-purpose spray cleaner in the kitchen for quick cleanup.
Keep a broom and dustpan in the kitchen for sweeping after meals.

**Workouts and clean eating are still going strong! Have now added jogging in the a.m. to my routine and loving it! How are YOU doing?!**

A Mistake was made?

2011-05-02T22:15:00.001-07:00

Really, wasn't she just so beautiful?

If I were British...I would wear hats...all the time! Great big obnoxious ones. I wouldn't even worry if the poor bloke sitting behind me couldn't see a thing! ;-D

Everything they do is just so beautiful...

I loved this moment. Loved that the big "L" was put on too. (It means "Learner's Permit")

Two-kisses! Awesome. Loved that Prince Harry was the one to egg Wills on!

English Roses..."lovely"

So yes, she's married to the future King of England...but everytime she smiles you can just tell she's REALLY, REALLY happy!

I think somewhere in Heaven a mistake was made! I'm pretty sure I was meant to be born in

England. I was supposed to have that lovely accent and be able to say things like "oh, it was simply brilliant" or "you look lovely this evening" or "would you like some tea with your scones darling". I watched the Royal wedding along with 2 billion other people and LOVED it! I love the traditions of the English people, the Monarchy, and the beautiful country oh, and of course Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte (I Love, love, love Jane Eyre) And then last night while I was watching TV...I found out America had finally found Osama bin Laden...and once again I was so "proud to be an American"! BUT, a wee bit of me still wishes I were a little bit British too! At least I can always fake an accent if I REALLY wanted to!

~Cheers mates~

(most pictures found via the lovely English blog Lou, Boos and Shoes)

Easter Egg Scramble 2011

2011-04-23T16:46:00.000-07:00

Ask any of my children if I've ever thrown them huge extravagant bday parties, spoiled them rotten at Christmas or bought the coolest most popular Halloween costumes and they'll give you a big, fat "NO!" But the holiday that I do love the most is EASTER! Easter means we celebrate Christs' Resurrection, Spring & the knowledge that Summer is just around the corner! Plus I love to decorate with spring-like decor: flowers, fruit, balloons etc...Take a look at what we did this year!! (Oh, and the best part: SUNNY, WARM SKIES...it couldn't have been more beautiful!)

(Sorry for the crappy pictures...blame it on my crappy camera, and my crappy skills)

The men hanging up all the tissue-paper flowers I made...

More of the "hired-help" ! ;-D My amazing mom and grandma who I can always count on for great ideas when it comes to throwing a party!

1,100 easter eggs filled with yummy candy and MONEY! (My most memorable Easter Egg hunt was when I was 10 and we went to the Tovias' home and they actually had MONEY in the eggs!! It was A-W-E-S-O-M-E...Hope I was able to create some memories for some of these kids!)
I decided to create areas for all age groups...

I'm very rarely IN FRONT of the camera so thought I should post this one...haha
Landon was a great lil helper. Me in my apron and can you see those plate stands? I made those with .25 cents glass candle sticks (which I spray painted white) and plates from the thrift store. Then I glued them together with my favorite glue E6000! Wa-la a cake stand for .75 cents!

All the eggs are finally out on the grass. Can you see why I called it a "Scramble" and not a "Hunt"?

All our friends started to arrive...8 families in all, 31 children! It was awesome! And we have the most awesomest friends & family! Did I mention it was Awesome?

The scramble begins...but it's not JUST any ole scramble...oh no, there was education involved too...

Oh, but did I mention I hired security as well: I asked for 3 big, burly, handsome men...you never know who wants to crash an Easter Party right?!

...Ok, so the education part was that on each easter egg was a letter. The children had to look at all of their eggs and see how many words they could come up with. The child with the most words won a big prize!!

My son and his friend "R"...did I also mention my kids have the BEST friends! They ALL get along so well...every single one of them!

Afterwards it was time for some kau kau (btw, not ALL the food was laid out yet...and we do it "poly" style in this family! Which means there's always more then enough food...it never runs out!)

Probably my favorite part of the party...seeing everyone sitting together eating and talking story! I love that!

More cute, cute kiddies!

Towards the end of the party the older kids got the littles ones together to play some fun games! Did I mention they all get along?!! AWESOME!!

Thank you to my wonderful family and friends for joining us on this special Holiday!

XOXO Love you guys!

...Now I'll be spending the next couple of hours laying in bed, eating pita chips and hummus while watching 'How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days...

Blog Lovin...

2011-04-14T18:17:00.001-07:00

Have you ever stumbled across a blog for the first time and a few hours later find yourself still totally entertained by it? eighteen25 was THAT blog for me today!! I am loving every single post from these cute Las Vegas sisters!! Take a look at what you'll find there...

super cute craft ideas

FREE printable downloads!!!!!!!!!!!!

loving subway prints!!

recipes shared by them and their readers...

giveaways...

and more adorable prints...

Makeup Junkie?!

2011-04-08T19:06:00.000-07:00

Have you seen that commercial with Brooke Shields & Claire Daines speaking for Latisse...you know, the product that claims you can get longer, thicker lashes? I really, really want to try it but I'm too ashamed to ask for it because I know the Dr. will take one look at me and think it wasn't really necessary...but who wouldn't want to try it at least?

Anyways, last night I was reading my Style People Magazine and saw an ad for Wet n Wild Mega Lash Clinical Serum. I know, I know...what you're thinking..."Really Kristen? Wet n Wild?" But it's only $4.99 so I thought I'd give it a try. Who knows...it just MIGHT work! And for only $4.99 well, I'll take my chances. I'll let you all know how it works after the 4 weeks are up!

MEGA LASH® CLINICAL SERUM Increase your daily winks…In just 4 weeks, get longer, thicker, fuller-looking lashes!* Breakthrough P-Charged+™ technology delivers a peptide complex that promotes visibly longer, thicker lashes. This revolutionary lash-lengthening formula contains Bulgarian Rose Water, Chamomile Extract, Soy Protein, and Pro-Vitamin B5 to condition and promote lash health. Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend but long, flirty lashes are a girl’s best secret weapon. *Based on Consumer Research Studies

MEGA LASH® CLINICAL MASCARA Boost your batting average: Get longer, thicker, fuller-looking lashes instantly! Research shows 87% of women saw an instant improvement in the length and volume of their lashes.* Breakthrough P-Charged+™ technology delivers a peptide complex that promotes visibly longer, thicker lashes. A conditioning and activation complex provides oils, vitamins, and nutrients to condition and stimulate stronger lashes for a “wow” factor that can’t be missed. *Based on Consumer Research Studies

A Look at My Saturday

2011-04-02T21:14:00.001-07:00

~ Mother Nature played a cruel April Fools Joke on us Oregonians! Yesterday was 70 degrees and beautiful. Today was totally different. So we stayed indoors most of the day today and had to find ways to keep us busy. My son Landon loves to do anything with his hands...so we got busy and made these flowers...~

~... which we attached to these little white boxes...~

~... that will be our 'Easter Egg Hunt' invites for the families we are inviting...(oh, and so far there are 868 eggs filled with lots of yummy treats!!)~

~Afterwards, I "let" all the boys sit in front of the TV to play a little Wii (like any good mom would do on a rainy Saturday ;-D) so I could have a some R&R and catch up on some important reading~

~ Then, I went through all my jewelry and decided it was time to thin it out a bit...~

~ ...which was hard work. So I continued with my reading and noticed this monsterous bag of "lollies" on my bed and it just kept staring at me and teasing me! "NO! I mustn't eat ANY...Hawaii is only 7 weeks away!", I told myself.~

~I gave up...The bag won the fight...~

Now, to end the day I'll sit in front of the TV...and watch the BBC version of Jane Eyre (!!!)

What a great day it's been!

~Hope you've had a wonderful day that was as relaxing as mine!~

SPRING & PORCHES

2011-03-22T19:08:00.001-07:00

I love Spring & Easter even more than Winter & Christmas...

...Something about the anticipation of seeing buds on trees, green green grass, a freshness in the air...and knowing that Summer is just around the corner...

...This year I'm throwing my 5th annual Easter Egg Hunt and like ALL the ones before I'm going overboard (612 eggs so far and counting). However, unlike the previous hunts where it was only my boys and two other families (and each child found about 75 eggs each...yikes) I've decided to invite some new friends/families we've met this year. In total around 25 children which should mean less visits to the dentist?...

...Not only do I love to fill the eggs but I also love to decorate my home...and because it was a beautiful, spring-like day today...I "gently" kicked my kids outdoors, swept the floors, organized the house, bought some way cute plastic cups, plates & bowls from Walmart in their spring patterns, and filled our home with spring flowers. It was a great day...

...now I'm ready to relax and enjoy watching Spring arrive...

How do you like the above porch? I love the green with purply/mauve color accents...

...this one is probably my favorite and more to my taste. I also LOVE any bed that's outdoors!
Oh, and how can you NOT like ceiling fans?...

Chairs. Love. White Floor. Love. Ceiling fan. Love. Screened in Porch. Love

Do I Need A Break?

2011-03-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

I have so much on my mind lately that blogging has been last on my list. First it started with the earthquake in New Zealand, then in Japan and then the tsunami in Hawaii. All 3 places are where my family are from. I just don't quite get it. I sometimes feel like there's so much more I can do...
As much as I am so greatful for my children's teachers...I wonder if it's mandatory for them all to give my boys big projects for them to complete before Spring Break? This too has been on my mind.

Work has also been busy as usual. I'm relied upon in a big way there and being sick or taking a dayoff has never been an option. But thats ok as I was born/raised/blessed with a great work ethic.

As a new(ish) Police Officer, my husband has experienced and seen events that I wouldn't wish upon anyone! He comes home and I can tell he is a million miles away...he's trying so hard to not let it affect his family. I've been blessed with great friends who've given me amazing advice and blessed with a marriage that has always had open communication. C and I are great at talking things out before they ever put a strain on our marriage.

...but this has all been a wonderful learning experience for me. (I also don't do well with the type of winters the Pacific Northwest experiences...and how could I growing up in sunny Southern California & Hawaii?!) I feel strong and remember to count my blessings. I can't save the world...but I can help...in small ways. I think what it all comes down to it this:

"Women who make a house a home make a far greater contribution to society than those who command large armies or stand at the head of impressive corporations."
~President Gordon B. Hinkley

I will continue to beautify my home for my family. I will make healthy, yummy meals for them to enjoy. I will work less hours at work & I will listen more and be better at it. Like I've said before, our time here on earth is short. I will help out when I can but I won't stress out if I can't.

UPDATE: I still haven't sewn my cute top mentioned in a previous post BUT I did re-cover my dining room chairs, sew some super cute pillow cases AND sew a small shade for my kitchen window. Now that it's Spring Break and I myself have a few days off...I WILL SEW THAT TOP!!

~HAPPY SPRING MY FRIENDS!!~

So So Sew (er)

2011-03-03T15:39:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard of Amy Butler? She is an amazing designer of textiles!

Above is a pattern for a really cute summer halter that I just received from Hawthorne Threads! I haven't sewn ANYTHING in years but I'll be attempting this this weekend!

Below are the two fabrics that I'll be using. As you can see there are two colors...because most likely I'll mess up at my first attempt! :-D

Pressed Flowers in Rose

Madeline in Green

If I succeed at this...I'll post my final creation...but that's a BIG IF!!

New Zealand Earthquake

2011-02-24T11:00:00.001-08:00

The death toll from Tuesday's 6.3 magnitude earthquake in Christchurch now stands at 103 and hopes are fading for 228 people still missing.

"A woman found beneath the rubble of a collapsed building held her dead brother's hand as she cried out for help from under the debris - and her heart-wrenching cries prompted rescuers to carry on digging until they freed him."

"Five-month-old Baxtor Gowland was born two weeks after the first earthquake rocked Christchurch in September.
Yesterday he was named as the youngest confirmed victim of Tuesday's quake."

"In the minutes after Tuesday's devastating earthquake, the people of Santa Maria Ave, Redcliffs, gathered at the top of the street and hugged and cried.
Still in shock from the violent shaking, they scrambled from their shattered homes and sought comfort from one another - many will never be able to live in their homes again."

About an hour ago I was here sitting on my couch looking around my home and thinking how dusty everything was..."I really need to dust today." A minute later I think to myself, "Wish I could just lose these last 10 lbs". Then, "My skin is so dry from the winter weather and having the heater on all day"
Then within a space of 10 minutes I receive a thoughtful email from my friend J asking how my husband's family is doing in New Zealand after the earthquake...this was followed by a call from Sister "D", who recently lost her husband to cancer checking up on us as well.

Boy, have I been humbled today!!!!

Who cares if my house is dusty or if I'm carrying an extra 10lbs (that probably no one even notices but myself), or that my skin is too dry.
There are WORSE things happening to people in the world right now.

So this is where I tell myself, "Kristen, shut up...stop being pathetic, get off the computer and do something today that just might make a difference in the World"

(all quotes from the New Zealand Herald)

Sitting Around the Table

2011-02-19T18:24:00.000-08:00

Can you believe this is a kitchen??!! I love it!

I wish my family could eat outdoors all year around!

I love the mismatched casual feeling of the table over here...at My Sweet Savannah

Dinner outdoors by candlelight?? Love it!

Dinner by the sea...yes I'll do that too!

Are you noticing a pattern here? Haha...I absolutely LOVE being outside!

Dinner outside with friends! Yes, please!

"Hey, have you seen the 'Food Nanny' on the BYUTV channel"...um nope dad, didn't even know the BYU channel had reality shows.

Well it does, and it was great and inspiring! I wanted to look more into this whole family mealtime. Don't get me wrong...we eat "together" every night, but it's usually rushed and followed by a quick cleanup, reading time and then bed. There's not a lot of "talking". The time seems to fly by so fast. I looked through different Ensign articles and found this one by Janene Wolsely Baadsgaard entitled: Meal Time, Family Time. Here is an excerpt:

Our family time around the dinner table has provided healing balm for many such trying days. With the busy lives each of us leads, we’ve found that mealtime together has taken on added importance.

President Spencer W. Kimball said: “It is important for us also to cultivate in our own family a sense that we belong together eternally, that whatever changes outside our home, there are fundamental aspects of our relationship which will never change” (“Ocean Currents and Family Influences,” Ensign, Nov. 1974, 112-13)

Despite differing circumstances, every family can make eating at least one meal together every day a family priority.

I know life will only get busier as my children grow older. I guess that's why I feel eager to make family dinnertime a special time NOW...so it'll just be a family habit in the future.

I also found some more great resources to help me with this goal. Thought I'd share them with you!

Have a great week my friends and hope you're able to share many great memories with your loved ones around your dinner table!

5 Dinners in ONE hour

Clean Mama Printables

Clean Mama

Tidy Mom

Tip Junky

I'm An Organizing Junkie

Why I LOVE to Blog #163

2011-02-09T21:53:00.000-08:00

One of the many things I love about blogging are the friends I have made around the world! I am always impressed with everyone's creativity out there. Here is a project I found on my friend Michelle's blog, who found it here...Both are personal favorites of mine!

It Was A Great Choice

2011-02-05T21:33:00.001-08:00

I woke up this morning at 7:48 and knew I had two options of how I wanted to spend my Saturday:

1. Go for a nice long run, do some situps and lunges etc...

2. or take the boys on a hike (just me and the boys today)

I decided on the latter...and I don't regret it at all!

This place really reminds me of New Zealand.

it's so beautiful here...on the way up we decided to not talk at all. I wanted the boys to really focus on the beauty surrounding us... that it was all created by our Heavenly Father.

...snacking on some cheese, turkey & crackers...

This beautiful waterfall was at the end of our hike!

that "choice" was so WORTH IT!!

I love going on little adventures with my boys! I want them to know that their mom loves to be outdoors and to do things that are"adventurous"...that we don't always need dad with us to make memories (even though we missed him badly!)

I hope when they're older and they look back on their childhood, that they remember these times with me...cause I know I'll never forget them.

How did you choose to spend your Saturday?

This Is How I Get....

2011-01-30T18:57:00.001-08:00

I love this quote.

Sometimes I get caught up thinking about all the things I can't get done because of my busy life...and then there are times when I remind myself to "chill out" & just go with the flow.

My friend Malia Jones (we were roommates in Hawaii many eons ago). Looking at this picture of her reminds me of how I use to be...nothing was ever THAT big of a deal. "Things" just rolled off my back...life was and IS still so simple!

Wouldn't this be an amazing place to chill out and do absolutely nothing?!

This time of year I get into my..."sick of cold, rainy weather...all I want is a little sunshine" mood! Stop by my house and you'll see lots of fresh flowers everywhere, just begging for Spring to hurry up!

Jessica Biel

Why pictures of Jessica Biel you ask? This is also what happens to me this time of year...I want a change with my hair! (haha)
I love her 'grown out' highlights. It's low maintenance and something I could handle. My hair grows so fast that I think by the time Carl and I go back to Hawaii it'll be around this length.

So there you have it my friends...this is what I do on a "supposedly reverent Sunday"...when my boys just don't want to stay in super quiet Church mode...I hide in my room and let the kiddos know I'll be out in 30 mins, cause I need a little peace and quiet!

Have a lovely week everyone...and remember to ENJOY the journey(s) we're all on...

My Cousin Scott on American Idol...

2011-01-26T22:04:00.000-08:00

A Bicycle Built For 1

2011-01-14T22:00:00.000-08:00

I am working ALOT now but it is so much more enjoyable now that there have been a few "changes" made at the office. And thank goodness the kiddos aren't suffering...the fact that they've all received straight "A's" this year so far tells me I'm not doing too badly as a working mom! ;-D

So with the extra $ I'm earning and the fact that I'm really missing warm, sunny weather right about now...my thoughts are on a new beach cruiser with a basket for fresh flowers from some field (or store) nearby!
Isn't this the cutest bike?!!
I found it on the Walmart site for $89!!! And the basket is only $12!!
I love it!
I hope you all have a great weekend. I'm gonna kick it with the kids and my hubby and do absolutely NOTHING!! My favorite kinda weekend...well actually if there were sun and 8o degree weather then it would really be perfect, but I'll take what I can get! Cheers!
~Kristen

Cool, Calm & Decluttered

2010-12-31T18:48:00.000-08:00

When I opened my mailbox and found this beautiful cover inside I actually felt giddy! I ACTUALLY looked forward to Christmas being over so I could clean up all the decorations, give the house a ceiling to floor wipe down and DECLUTTER!

And that's just what I did on Christmas afternoon!! haha.

Luckily my husband and boys didn't even bat an eye at my craziness that day. I don't think anyone felt as though I had jipped them from a proper Christmas Holiday seeing as I decorate as soon as Thanksgiving is over.

And lemme tell you, IT FELT SO GOOD!

By that evening my house was so clean, my desk was organized & every nook and cranny had been dusted.

I like starting the New Year with an organized and decluttered house.

Bring on Spring...cause I'll be able to enjoy the sunshine

& not be tied down to any Spring Cleaning!

Happy New Year my friends!

I hope it's one filled with joy & great health...

~Kristen

For us, it's a season of Service

2010-12-18T09:07:00.000-08:00

Growing up my mom and dad made sure that each Christmas we chose a family who was less fortunate then us and make sure they had a Christmas to remember. We would give toys, food and money...all anonymously. Our family has carried on this tradition throughout the years, but last night as I was looking for songs for my running playlist I stumbled across this beauty. It's written by Emmanuel Jal, a Sudanese who is raising awareness to stop another genocide from happening.

Please have a look at this website We-Want-Peace for a much better understanding and help if you can! The t-shirts are so cute and would make a great gift this Christmas

It's a Wrap

2010-12-03T21:08:00.001-08:00

Martha Stewart.com

martha stewart

Laylagrayce Blog

It must be my age, because I far prefer wrapping gifts then receiving them!
I found some great wrapping supplies at Michaels and the Dollar Tree and I can't wait to start wrapping gifts and placing them underneath our tree!

Why Oh Why?

2010-11-21T19:00:00.001-08:00

These HUNTER wellies were at Costco last month for the bargain price of $69...so why in the world did I pass them up?!

Loving them right now, especially with the cute knee socks and a dress!

Check out one of my favorite blogs Humble Pie and how Lissa wears them! She is so cute!

Have a great Thanksgiving week everyone!

~Kristen

A Holiday Wreath

2010-11-12T13:11:00.001-08:00

Here is what I did on my day off this week. With a little inspiration, a visit to our storage unit & 2 great coupons to Michaels from my mom I was able to make this Holiday wreath. The bow is a bit shabby...but I'm fixing that today with a new one. What I love most about this wreath is that I can probably get away with keeping it up all year long if I wanted to. However, as we get closer to Christmas I can hang a red bow up and it's a bit more 'christmassy' right?

Wreath Inspiration

2010-11-06T14:54:00.001-07:00

(all pictures from Coastal Living)

This week on my day off I'm going to attempt making a wreath for our front door. I think the second picture is my favorite...what do you think?

Hope you're all having fun preparing for the Holidays!

~Kristen

A Treat For a Hard Working Girl

2010-10-18T06:42:00.001-07:00

I think I'm like most women in that I have a hard time spending this sorta money on myself. I can easily (sometimes too easily) spend $ on things for the home or the boys or food! But to actually look in a store for myself?...that's a whole 'nother story. I'm not sure why that is, but it is.

Well not this month! If you've read a previous post about the girl I work with, then you'll understand why I might actually need this this time. So I have my husbands full support in a little shopping spree (unfortunately he has to hear my rants and raves about this particular gal)! This is what I'm seriously considering!

Cable Knit Long sweater from A&E
Loving this "military"-type jacket (A&E)

I've got a bit of 'flashdance' in me...a very small bit. But every once in awhile you'll find me dancing in my kitchen to some music. (A&E)

This makes me feel tougher just looking at em! Love these!

Love this dress with some skinny-ish jeans and those cute boots above! (Old Navy)

Weathered looking slouchy boots from Old Navy!
So there you have it...maybe if I get some cute clothes I can participate in WIWW with all you cute girls out there! Cause all I'm wearing right now are scrubs. blah

Have a great week everyone!!

~Kristen

Another reason why I love to blog!

2010-10-13T21:19:00.000-07:00

Have any of you ever seen that show on MTV called 'The Buried List'?...Yes, I'm 36 years old and probably should be watching something more "grown-up" like CNN or Dateline, but man this show is good. I have a Buried List (a list of things you want to do before you die...like a bucket list) but many of those things cost MONEY...for all the traveling I want to do around Europe and Africa, building schools in third world Countries (that sorta thing).

Lately I find myself wrapped up in my own little world forgetting what's really important in life. And with the season of Thanksgiving fast approaching, this LIST is just what I need to get into the spirit!

So here goes...

25 simple things that make a big difference. This is what I'm working on right now... because Lulu inspired me to do so...

here is a list of things SHE came up with & I couldn't agree with her more! Oh and by the way...mosey on over to her blog when ya get a chance...she's one brilliant girl!
1. smile more- even at strangers.
2. send someone a card in the mail.
3. call someone out of the blue to see how they are doing.
4. let someone into your lane instead of speeding up & cutting them off.
5. leave goodies at someone's door step anonymously.
6. donate the things you don't need/use anymore.
7. give up your seat in a crowded place.
8. leave extra money in a parking meter or vending machine.
9. give someone a book you've read that they might enjoy as well.
10. leave little sticky notes of "love" for your family or friends.
11. say please & thank you (of course).
12. make something for someone.
13. give more compliments.
14. if you see trash, pick it up instead of walking past it.
15. use one of your talents to help someone.
16. help an elderly person load their groceries.
17. drop a dollar (or more) somewhere random for another person to find.
18. wave to your neighbors.
19. volunteer for a local cause.
20. just listen to someone who needs to talk.
21. let someone in a hurry cut you in line.
22. return your shopping cart instead of leaving it in the parking spot.
23. get off your phone when associating with other people.
24. find a way to serve someone every day.
25. say "i love you" more often to those you do!

"I know these "simple acts of kindness" are pretty common & we've all probably made lists like this several times. But lets be honest, life is busy & demanding and things like this are forgotten. kristi & i challenged each other to work on our lists and so far i'm loving it. Its been a wonderful reminder for me. You are welcome to join in... it's amazing what a little bit of kindness can do to lift your spirits!" ~Lulu

Lulu thanks for the invite to join you and your friend...cause I am so in! ~Kristen

Bruno Mars - Just The Way You Are [Official Video]

2010-10-11T21:54:00.000-07:00

So Proud

2010-09-20T20:43:00.001-07:00

(at my hubby's graduation w/ 2 of our 4 sons)

There are not enough words to describe how proud I am of my husband.

As we were glued to our television set on that terrible day of September 11th, 2001...my husband turned to me and said, "I have to be able to do something about this." Being born and raised in New Zealand he wasn't an American Citizen then. This tragic day changed so much! My hubby became a Citizen a year later...and on September 17th he graduated from the Police Academy with top honors!!

He was awarded the Victor G. Atiyeh Award, which is presented to the outstanding student by their fellow students and the academy staff. The student selected must display exceptional professionalism by demonstrating an exemplary attitude and outstanding achievement in leadership, academics, health & fitness and survival skills.

I am so proud of him and desire to protect and serve his community & Country!

A love for Teal & All things Thrifty

2010-09-14T12:38:00.000-07:00

Remember these beauties?

Here they are now after receiving a complete makeover. Painted the inside cream at first...but after a couple of months it just got too boring for me...so out came the teal paint that I used on my front door!

This here suitcase first belonged to my grandfather, then my dad used it when he left for college. It's final resting place is in my own where I can look after it! Thanks mom and dad for letting me display it!

I love love love my red Royal Crown Cola box.

This music stand I found last week on my weekly trip to the local Thrift Stores! It's a perfect place to keep all of my favorite magazines!

A Day Off...

2010-09-07T13:35:00.000-07:00

I finally got these shelves up today, and if I say so myself...I did a darn good job at it! The reason I'm so proud of them is because I did it on my own, no "extra" holes had to be drilled & they are level!!
HUGE ACCOMPLISHMENT FOR ME!
Everything in this photo (except for the computer & lamp...which my mom got for me on clearance at Pier 1 Imports) is from the THRIFT STORE!!
I LOVE the hunt for great bargains!

~Next up on my to-do list~

Vintage transfers on some pillows I'm sewing
Sew curtains for kitchen window
Refurbish a great shelving unit
New hardware for kitchen cabinets

...my days off will be full of fun things to do!!

Just B-R-E-A-T-H

2010-08-31T19:46:00.000-07:00

(I wish this sign had been on the outside of the office I work at...as a warning!)

It's been ages since my last post. I have been a little overwhelmed at my new job, not because of the work (I actually really like it) but because I work with 2 women who are extremely passive-aggressive & another girl who I truly believe PMS's everyday of the month! It's driving me mad!

However, now that the boys are back in school this week, I think I'll have a bit more time to do some of the things that us girls like to do.

I've done a few things around the house and have a long list of upcoming projects. Pictures will be up soon!

Hope everyone is having a great week!

~Kristen

Aloha Nui Loa Friends

2010-07-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

Hapuna Beach, Big Island, Hawaii

If you're looking for me...I'll be here the next 2 weeks.

My family & I will be on the Big Island of Hawaii in a little town called Hawi.

Can you locate it?

I'll be here snorkling everyday, enjoying the sun.
Hope you're enjoying your summer too!

Anthropologie Giveaway!!

2010-06-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across a wonderful blog last night and found out that today 'Twig' is offering a great giveaway from Anthropologie!! I'd post pictures of what it is...but I think you too should 'stumble' on over there yourself!

Have a great weekend!

~Kristen

2010-06-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

Junk Bonanza Blog is featuring a very cute giveaway by Beth Quinn Designs. I love the vintage look of her jewelry! You want to miss visiting either of these inspiring blogs.

~Kristen

2010-06-17T18:10:00.000-07:00

Oregon has some beautiful hiking trails

My friend Julienne invited the boys and I to go hiking with her family today. It was a beautiful hike and the kids pretty much ran the WHOLE way!

Afterwards, they all took a little swim in the river. What a perfect thing to do on a somewhat summery day!
~Kristen

Please, Don't Hate Me...

2010-06-16T23:14:00.000-07:00

Kristin Cavallari on the left

I rarely watch TV at night...I've always preferred a good book. But as I was channel surfing last night I came across this show 'The Hills', and although it was quite annoying to watch, I couldn't help but admire Kristen Cavallari's hair style in this scene. I can't even remember any of the dialogue but I'm definetly going to try this hairdo.

This was a very random post, I know. I blame it on it being 11:18 at night (way past my bedtime) and my husband away for work for the next 12 weeks, although we do get to see him on the weekends...goodnight everyone!

A Place of My Very Own

2010-06-13T20:34:00.001-07:00

I've always wanted a desk of my own. A place where I could write cards, keep bills and not worry about little hands mixing everything up. She needed a lot of work however...
My oldest son was eager to help me.
So his task was to scrape off years of tape and other sticky things.

After primer and two coats of paint she was finished. The picture in the frame is one we used for our wedding announcement nearly 15 years ago.

Hardware can be a bit pricey so I kept the old one's and gave them a quick spray.

Here she is...and I don't have to share her with anyone!

Now I'm off to my next project!

Have a great week!

xoxo Kristen

White Chocolate Heaven

2010-06-10T11:56:00.001-07:00

These two beauties will be getting a makeover during the next couple of weeks.

I've been inspired, after reading this months Coastal Living that the outside will be painted in Benjamin Moore's White Chocolate & the inside will be in either 'first snowfall' or 'silver mist'.

My question for you is...shall I keep the doors on or remove them completely?

Hope you're enjoying some sunny weather!

xoxo Kristen

Tuesdays Treasures

2010-06-08T13:51:00.000-07:00

Today was Thrift Store day with my youngest son and I think I found some pretty great items!

I found these old oars at an estate sale a couple of days ago for get this....50 cents!! I'm thinking of doing something like this below. Which one do you think I should attempt to recreate?
Pottery Barn

I love what Melanie over at Pretties and Posies
did on her porch! Isn't she great?! I found some great linen curtains for .99 cents that I'd like to hang on our deck...

Perfect chair for my newly refurbished desk that I'll share with you later! I love this chair...another great steal!

I think this box might do nicely as a stationary holder...what do you think? Should I paint it with some watered down white paint or leave as is?

These glass cups were only 10 cents for all four!

These came from my great friend Heidi who gave them to me for free!! I was more then happy to oblige. I'm thinking of turning them into something like this...

Do you think I can do this? I also like the idea of painting the outside white and maybe a cloudy blue inside...? Still mulling it over in my head...

My first Project

2010-06-07T20:44:00.001-07:00

One of the first things I wanted to do was display my jewelry somewhere so I'd be more likely to actually WEAR it. I got this idea from my friend Michelle's blog (who in my book is the QUEEN of DIY)! I actually love her frame much more but seeing as I'm kinda sorta cheap I didn't want to spend more then a buck on a frame. So this is what a buck got me. Maybe not quite what I wanted but it was so easy and fun to do that if I do happen to come across a much nicer frame then I'll just snap it up and do it again!
Check out Michelle's jewelry frame here.
(my projects around our home was taken with my not so great camera...which means picture quality not so great...they really do look so much better in person! ;-D)
-Kristen

You have made my day Laura!

2010-06-04T18:52:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Laura from Summerhouse who gave me this great award! I feel honored and can't wait to pass it on to 15 of my most favorite blogs!!

I'm almost there

2010-06-03T19:05:00.000-07:00

(a photo I found off my computer that has been in storage for over a year!

Sunset Beach, Oregon)
I am almost back...to my blog that is. I have been so busy with my home (moving in) that anything on the computer has taken a serious "back seat". But I have been oh so busy decorating, refurbishing ugly old desks, mirrors, chalkboards, etc...and I can't wait to post all about them. Until then...keep posting all your great projects...they're always inspiring me in some way!
xoxo Kristen

Exciting Time & Pottery Barn Lovin!

2010-05-03T21:28:00.001-07:00

For months & months I have been so envious of all the beautiful blogs I follow. You have all been so busy with projects, crafts, restorations & redecorating that I found myself inspired on a daily basis. But there was one thing wrong with this picture...I didn't have my own home to work some magic on. My parents have been SO amazingly kind to our family & have let our not so little family live with them while my husband made a big decision & started a new career...one that I fully supported! :-) But this week is THE week that we finally get to move into our own home (and my parents get their beautiful river front home BACK all to themselves!!)

So now all those ideas I've had swirling around my head at the oddest times of the night (usually around 2 am) get to come to light...& I once again get the chance to be creative and create a beautiful home for my family! Let the fun begin...

I'm probably the only person out there who requests Pottery Barn Catalogs, NOT to buy from them (IF only I were THAT rich) but to get ideas and to be inspired from their pages! THEN I do what I can in recreating those things that I love the most. Below are some of the things I'll attempt...

Ok, so maybe this is way beyond my sewing skills...I may just have to save up for this.
Coral pillow...I love! Goes along with my love of all things Coastal Living.

So pretty. I love the detail. This also comes with a duvet in the same pattern...another look I love.

Vintage Oars

Vintage galvanized pot.

Hope everyone's having a great week!

Feels great to be INSPIRED again!

2010-04-27T19:37:00.001-07:00

Janice over at Canadian Cottage has been gracious enough to let me share with you pictures of her beautiful home! Enjoy!!

Janice's Canadian Cottage Master bedroom! I love love love the idea of a chandelier over the bed! I wonder if the hubby would approve of that....I mean it IS so romantic after all! ;-D

"Here is another shot of the old piece of molding above our bed. I really love using inexpensive pieces like this to add character. I don't use a lot of artwork because personally I don't like the idea of matching artwork to the room, but at the same time I like everything to match! So mostly I love architectural salvage, photographs, and mirrors on walls."-Janice

I love the mirror, lamp, side table, flowers, bedding...did I leave anything out?

"I found this old piece of trim with hooks in it at the flea market, and we hung it behind our door. This would be easy to make and we are thinking of using a horizontal piece to create towel hangers for our bathroom." -Janice

I saw a mirror just like this at the thrift store up the street and can you believe I didn't walk out with it? I'm just kickin myself right now!!

Not sure if anyone noticed, but it's been awhile since my last post (at least for me it was). I am often inspired by all you talented women out there...but this week I was so amazed at what Janice from Canadian Cottage did to her master bedroom. What I like most about Janice is not only does she have great taste but she does it on a shoestring budget. I love how her house looks like a HOME. I would much rather fill my home with items I've found or bought for really cheap that just needed a little TLC, then expensive items that have no history to them. I love seeing the transformation from junk to treasure. It also helps that the hubby is MUCH happier when I spend very little to no money on these things!!

Thank you SO much Janice for sharing your home with us all!

DustyLu's Giveaway

2010-04-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

Le Creuset Cast Iron Pots

LuLu's yummy recipe. (She always has great recipes w/ beautiful pictures to accompany them)

Le Creuset porcelain enameled cast iron pots. These are the beautiful dishes that are the giveaway!!

Really you don't want to miss this giveaway. Not only are these dishes beautiful but they're practical! Two things I LOVE!! Stop by her blog and say hello!

Not ashamed...of making a fool of myself...

2010-04-10T18:35:00.000-07:00

My brother-in-law had a great idea for his 30th B-day...He wanted a Manly-Man Bday with games for the men. You know things that included baseballs, golf, football, etc...at the end my sister and I got to do the last game, and lemme tell you, it was NOT easy but SO much fun! And yes, that's my husband laughing at me in the background! LOL

The Last Song

2010-04-08T20:59:00.001-07:00

Did you have summers like this growing up? I remember the days sitting at the beach with friends "talking story"...

So so cute...they BOTH were (not a huge fan of Miley Cyrus...boys aren't really in to her shows) but these two had chemistry!

I'm way past my prime of attending proms, but if I weren't...

this would've been my dream dress!!

I love books written by Nicholas Sparks. I wanna go to North Carolina. I wanna house (beach bungalow to be specific) & I wanna spend a summer there on the beach with my family. Is that too much to ask?!!

I read 'The Last Song' in 2 days (could've done it in 1 day but you know, being a mum to the boys and a wife etc...I sorta got priorities.)

So I told my husband as soon as I finished it I wanted to go see the movie. I didn't get my hopes up, seeing that I was disappointed by the adaptations of the Twilight Series...but this was a cute movie. In fact I really liked it. They left out heaps from the book but still got the Nicholas Sparks vibe of love & life and how precious they both are.

Just gotta give a special shout out to my Police Officer hubby for being man enough to see this with me & not caring who saw him! haha

The Best Years

2010-04-05T18:36:00.001-07:00

I spent some of the best years of my life at this school!

Brigham Young University-Hawaii (where my parents and sister all attended as well).

Not only is it a beautiful campus, With students from more than 70 countries around the world, BYU-Hawaii offers you an opportunity to associate, work, and study in a truly international environment. Nothing prepares you for life better then learning from other cultures.

"We may have different religions, different languages, different colored skin, but we all belong to one human race." -- Kofi Annan

Hurry and Enter Dreamy Whites Giveaway!!

2010-04-02T20:32:00.000-07:00

Another great giveaway on Maria's blog Dreamy Whites! You really don't want to miss this one!

Happy Easter???!!!

2010-04-02T15:29:00.001-07:00

I'm gonna have a real headache after this

What a bully!

NOOOOO!

Why??!!!

True Love...

HAPPY EASTER!

Thrifty Thursday Finds

2010-04-01T16:16:00.001-07:00

I love having sons but there's a little part of me that hopes my sister has a girl so I can sew some cute girlie things for her baby! I love finding tin buckets, you can use them for lots of different things!
I think the red polka dot lining is so cute.

I like the look of this vase and the texture.

You can never have too many glass jars (or could you?). A little white paint and some sandpaper will be used on the candle holder. And the old wooden box? Maybe some fresh flowers or a place to keep my mail?

I LOVE these journals. I actually picked these up at the local art & craft fair last weekend. The guy took these old books, saved the good pages & added some blank pages to make the perfect journal for me!

Here's another view. And again...another old, distressed wooden box. There's something about these boxes/crates & glass jars that I love.

These kind of look like orchids to me. My grandparents in Hawaii had a little orchid farm and they just bring back good memories. A little paint on the frame and it'll be ready for hanging.

Happy Easter Weekend everyone!

A Lesson Learned

2010-03-31T20:47:00.001-07:00

Me & my sisters
One of my favorite memories from my childhood was going Thrift Store shopping with my dad and sisters every Saturday. We became very good at it...finding deals that is.

Yesterday I set out for a fun afternoon in search of a great deal...and I found it. Two beautiful white, distressed candle holders. They were beauties and only $1 each. But I made a huge mistake! I thought I could leave them behind and come back tomorrow to pick them up. WHY did I do that? They were both gone today...making someone else's house beautiful. I did pick up a few items which I'll post tomorrow...but I'll never make that mistake again!

Easter Invitations

2010-03-21T20:11:00.001-07:00

I get really excited for Easter each year. With it comes Spring, flowers, farmers market & trips to the coast. This year I'm throwing our 2nd annual egg hunt with hundreds of eggs for the kiddies.

For the invitations this year, I painted little wood boxes (from Michael's) in soft pastel colors, stuffed with chocolates & attached a little homemade card for each child.

Then I enlisted each son to help with the special delivery...needless to say they were more then happy to help!

I just needed a little sun...

2010-03-19T19:31:00.000-07:00

Today we had a beautiful day. Not a cloud in the sky. C. and I sat in our beach chairs while we watched the boys play in the sand along the river in the backyard. He reading his book and I with my favorite magazine, 'Coastal Living'

A friend mentioned me in a 'post your bedside table post'...so here's a picture of mine. All my favorite things right within reach. (You can see the BIG river in the back through the window there.)

Thought I'd post some of my favorite pictures that I found in my 'Coastal Living' magazine today. I LOVE the walls, and the old door as a headboard!!

So much light in this kitchen. You can't tell from this picture but the article also showed the massive windows opposite her that looked out to the Pacific Ocean! I would love that kind of view!

I really like all of the muted colors in this room but especially like the blue painted bamboo chair!

I don't really mind the bit of rain we get here in Oregon because when the sun shines (which it often does in our part of OR) it is so beautiful here! Hope you all have a great weekend!

-Kristen

Oh the joys of Laundry

2010-03-11T17:37:00.000-08:00

Now if I could LOOK like THIS when I did my laundry...I might actually enjoy it more. But alas, I am wearing my husbands plaid pajama pants (which are 3x too big for me), an old hanes white T, pony tail & my glasses on...as I wait for another load to finish.

I love how fresh and clean this room is. And I love that door that opens to the outside! And that umbrella holder?...LOVE IT!

Hmmm, what don't I love about this room. Could really use that great big table to fold all the clothes on right now!

A Chandelier in the laundry room? Why not, I say!!

This particular room is so cute! I love the colors & the cute pull out drying rack!

Another 'rack' I'm lovin right now!

'Old Skool' fun!

2010-03-06T20:18:00.000-08:00

I confess, I was SO excited when my son wanted his Bday Party at the skating rink!

(My younger sister Erin (left) and her handsome son Cooper)

A Fun-Filled Day

2010-03-05T19:30:00.000-08:00

6th grade honor roll assembly was this morning. Always feel proud when he does well but even more so when it involves school!

Raising all sons along with my very "masculine" husband makes me very greatful that at least ONE of them loves the Home & Garden Show as much as I do!

Here we are carrying some of our loot.

These new little chicks were so cute and made me so excited for SPRING to arrive!

We ended our day with a little "work" at great-grandma's house. We love to help her with her yard work & gardening!

Today was a great day...can't wait for the weekend!

(Serena over at The Farm Chicks posted several pictures from her day yesterday...I just thought it was a great idea!!)

Thrift Store Thursday

2010-02-25T15:40:00.001-08:00

Besides sneaking away for lunch w/ C. while the children are all at school my MOST favorite thing to do here in our small town is hit the local thrift/antique stores! SO many treasures to be found! (pictured above: white galvanized flower pot which I've been looking for for awhile now, vintage handkerchiefs, wood stand, & cute 'Essence of White' book.)

**Total cost $5.50**

Candle stick holders and white/iron hooks for purses, towels, jackets or whatever.

**total cost $5!!!**

I love love love glass jars in all shapes and sizes. Love my little spice/oil rack as well!

**total cost $4**

I think I did pretty well!

Dreamy Whites and her Charming Giveaway!!

2010-02-20T23:05:00.000-08:00

Maria over at Dreamy Whites

has one of the most charming giveaways! As soon as you enter her blog you'll immediately become a "follower"! And get this, she's only been blogging for a little over a month! You'd never be able to tell by her fantastic posts of her most adorable home!

Good luck! -Kristen

A Giveaway You Don't Wanna Miss!!

2010-02-18T18:02:00.000-08:00

My favorite, Burlap clutch with shabby chic flower! I love it!!

Two coin purses from Anthropologie!! THIS one (above) & THAT one (below)

Home Sweet Seattle Giveaway

How cute is that name? Jen over at Home Sweet Seattle has one of the BEST giveaways I've seen in awhile! And I like you all so much, even knowing this may limit my chances of becoming a winner :-) that I wanted to share this "good thing" with you all. BUT not only are her gifts adorable you can also follow her on her amazing blogs Home Sweet Seattle and Sofa Savvy

Good luck to you all girls!!

A little sunshine!!

2010-02-16T13:52:00.000-08:00

What a great way to start the day...Courtney over at Yoga Nuh thought me special enough to award my lil ole blog the 'Sunshine Award'! Thanks Courtney!! So, now it's MY turn to send this award out to 12 blogs that give me sunshine...stay tuned!!

Happy V-Day

2010-02-12T13:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day weekend friends!

I had a GREAT week...paid off some debt (yippee), went Thrift Store shopping (very successful), and going out with my hubby tonight (can't wait)!

I'll post my treasures from my Thrift Store outing Monday!

Hope you too had a GREAT week!!

Thursdays Longings...

2010-02-04T19:08:00.000-08:00

Nicole Richie looking amazing. I'm thinking of changing up my hair a bit. Nothing radical, I just think this is a really cute look!!
Here she is again. I found these pictures on Bella Mumma, a favorite blog of mine that I read everyday!

Found this vintage chest on Craigslist tonight and I LOVE it!! My personal style is beachy/vintage/bohemian...and this would look so cute as coffee table!

A little TLC is all that it needs!

"Believe in us..."

2010-02-02T21:42:00.000-08:00

"If people would believe in us like Special Olympics and see what we can do, they would be amazed. My ambition in life is to turn ‘no’ into ‘yes.’ If someone says I can’t do something, I want to prove I can."
Suzanne O’Moore, Special Olympics Australia athlete

The first time I ever volunteered to work with the Special Olympics was in the 5th grade and I LOVED it! I hoped I would be able to teach them, but even at 11 years old I KNEW they would be able to teach me so much more.

So I now help coach a Special Olympics basketball team and once again I'm learning so much more about myself. These special individuals are helping me realize that we can all accomplish the unthinkable if we only believe. What's even better is that my own children have asked if they too can get involved! It can't get much better then that!

It's the Weekend!!

2010-01-30T16:09:00.001-08:00

I've got these chairs reserved...who's gonna join me this weekend?...

Can You Smellllll What The ROCK is Cookin?

2010-01-24T19:25:00.000-08:00

Dwayne Johnson aka 'The Rock'

'The Rock' w/ his tribal tattoos...he is 1/2 Samoan like my husband and because of that, hubby thinks HE needs a tribal tattoo as well. Hmmm, don't think his mum would be too keen on that idea!

Hubby with 2 of our boys

Today I received the cutest email from a great friend of mine...I asked her if I could share with you all and she said, sure.

Remember that T.V. show 'Kids Say the Darndest Things'?.......

("G" is my friends daughter & Brother K is my husband)

Tonight I took G and a friend to see The Tooth Fairy - sweet movie. It stars Duane "the rock" Johnson. On the way home, a cute conversation broke out in the back seat between these two 9 yr olds:

I commented that the guy in the movie is quite handsome and G. says to her friend, "yeah, he's like Brother K, he's ripped!" (didn't know my youngest even knew that word!)

G. continues: "Brother K's bones in his arms are the size of my entire arm", her friend tries to say something, G. interrupts, "I'm making a point here", friend stops talking. "So his bone is the size of my entire arm and then it's completely covered in huge muscles and veins just like the guy's in the movie." (hmmmm, when has she been looking at Brother K's arms? Perhaps she's heard T. rave about Brother K's cool factor?)

So now I'm trying to drive, listen intently and not giggle. The story unfolds even more:

"Yeah, and then when he talks he has the SWEETEST voice you've ever heard when you'd think it'd be low and deep. And you know what? He's a policeman now and you wouldn't want to run into him if you didn't know that." (note to Brother K - don't speak to criminals or they might NOT think you're scary)

I LOVED that story from my friend 'C'
and for those of you who don't know what my hubby's voice sounds like...he's from New Zealand, so it's a beautiful mix between an Australian and British accent.

Thanks for sharing that with me "C"...kids say the greatest things when they think we're not listening...

I could do some daydreaming here or here or here...

2010-01-20T21:05:00.001-08:00

Lately, I've been dreaming a lot...all good dreams of course. I wonder if it's because my current life is quite busy, or it could be that I find I'm worrying more about everyone else around me instead of taking care of my-self/needs on a day to day basis. Whatever it is...I'm happy, healthy and look forward to what the future holds for me and my wonderful family! What do you daydream about...?

(pictures and quote from The Bottom of the Ironing Basket & Coastal Magazine)

BOOKS!!!

2010-01-12T18:21:00.000-08:00

"For Jane, the modern world is not wholly disagreeable. Her apartment may be smaller than a dressing closet, but it is fitted up with lights that burn without candles, machines that wash bodies and clothes, and a glossy rectangle in which tiny people perform scenes from her favorite book, Pride and Prejudice. Granted, if she wants to travel she may have to drive a formidable metal carriage, but she may do so without a chaperone. And oh, what places she goes! Public assemblies that pulsate with pounding music. Unbound hair and unrestricted clothing. The freedom to say what she wants when she wants-even to men without a proper introduction." Read more here

"Bored and isolated, Claire takes a position as a piano teacher to Locket Chen, a young Chinese girl from a wealthy Hong Kong family. Through her involvement with the Chens, she meets Will Truesdale, a chauffeur and Englishman. Although Will seems to barely tolerate Claire, a chance meeting in the city leads to the beginning of an affair." Read more here

"It's a fascinating journey up and down the food chain, one that might change the way you read the label on a frozen dinner, dig into a steak or decide whether to buy organic eggs. You'll certainly never look at a Chicken McNugget the same way again. Pollan approaches his mission not as an activist but as a naturalist: "The way we eat represents our most profound engagement with the natural world." All food, he points out, originates with plants, animals and fungi. " Read more here

Oh how I love to read! I read all year around...during the rainy winter months and thru beautiful sunny weather sitting on my beach chair! One thing I love is when fellow bloggers will post the books they are currently reading. I've discovered many a great reads that way. So, I thought I'd do the same. I read all types of books, everything from biographies to fiction and even romance! (I know Erin & Lane are snickering right now, haha) So the books above are what I'll be reading over the next 2 weeks. I'll let you know my review...till then find a great book, snuggle up with your snuggie (I know you have one too) and enjoy the escape!

A little over eager?...perhaps...

2009-12-26T16:40:00.000-08:00

I start to get a little impatient for Spring & Summer to arrive right around the beginning of Winter! haha
Everyone around me seems to be leaving for warmer climate. My parents are heading to Hawaii for a MONTH & my sister and her husband are leaving for a cruise around the same time...I'll be here...in the cold rain with my pasty white skin...BUT I'M NOT BITTER!;-D

I do look forward to this time however...because I WANT to eat even better and exercise even harder!

This would be a lovely place to vacation, wouldn't you agree?

(all pictures from the wonderful blog: The Bottom of the Ironing Basket)

Mele Kalikimaka Friends!

2009-12-24T20:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!!

I hope you enjoy this time with your friends, family & loved ones!

-Kristen

Love Is...

2009-12-07T20:45:00.001-08:00

I found the most lovely post from one of my favorite blogs: The Bottom of the Ironing Basket.

Hope it touches you as much as it did me...

Love Is...

a group of 4-8 year olds were asked what they thought love meant...

'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different...you just know that your name is safe in their mouth.' -Billy age 4

'Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.'-Karl age 5

'Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him to make sure the taste is OK'-Danny age 7

'Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.'

-Bobby age 7

'Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My mommy and daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss.' -Emily age 8

'During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling. He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore.' -Cindy age 8

'My mommy loves me more then anybody. You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.'

-Clare age 6

'Love is when mommy sees daddy smelly and sweaty, and still says he is handsomer then Robert Redford.'-Chris age 7

'When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.'

Karen age 7

The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, 'Nothing , I just helped him cry'....

Our little family received some bummer news today...but we're a strong family and there's alot of love! :-)

Family Pictures+Thanksgiving+Date Night=Awesome Vacation

2009-11-29T20:12:00.000-08:00

We were laughing so hard because my husband HATES taking "action" pictures, whereas I HATE posing for the camera! -Birch Bay, WA (isn't beautiful?)

18 of the 31 grandkids on the C's side. They were so good while all us mums & dads were taking pictures.

Our first attempt at a Family Christmas Picture in over 5 years or so!! Boys really don't like sitting still for the camera cause "it takes so long"...umm yeah like a whole 30 seconds...whatya gonna do? Good memories! :-D

Date Night with a few of C's siblings and their spouses. We always have a great time with everyone!

Our Thanksgiving Feast 2009! SO much wonderfully yummy food!

Just A Few SUTTLE Hints

2009-11-19T18:22:00.001-08:00

Homeward Bound Top $22.99 (also in Aqua Mint & deep red)

Would look so cute with a belt too!

Timeless Trench Coat $49.99 (Black & Limestone)

Peace of Mind Skirt $32.99 (in pewter & black)

Ornamental Skirt $34.99

Long Sleeve V-Neck $14.99 (hands down the BEST shirt...baby pooch begone)
Comes in 3 different colors

Formal Flowers Dress $44.99
(silver grey, deep red & black)

Frosted Flowers Cardigan $34.99 (Glacier grey, graphite blue)

Flowers & Pearl Necklace $9.99

I miss two things about living in Utah...1st the many wonderful friends I made there...2nd Down East basics! It's a wonderful store started by 2 Utah moms who "got" those of us who wanted to look trendy but still needed to keep some things 'hidden'. Now living out of UT, I get so giddy when I receive one of their catalogs. I curl up on my bed, tell the boys I just need 30 minutes of peace & quiet and proceed to circle all the items I'd LOVE to own. So I just thought I'd post all the clothes that I think would look great on me (;-D) AND if my husband happens to stumble across this blog or if I accidently leave it up on the computer maybe I'll plant a little seed in his head and I'll find these items under the Christmas tree come December 25th! Wish me luck ladies!

(Oh yeah, & the best bit about this Company is that their prices are so reasonable for those of us ladies who are on a budget...isn't that great honey?! :-D)

2009-11-14T18:41:00.001-08:00

Received this in an email from my sister-in-law Lisa...to funny!
(to see it clearly just click on the picture)

Go For Broke

2009-11-11T14:53:00.001-08:00

My grandpa, Shigeru Oshita in the back with glasses on.

Because it's Veterans Day here in the States and because I have 2 grandpas who served in WWII, this day holds a lot of meaning for me. It especially means alot because I'm half Japanese and have a Japanese-American grandpa who had to fight a war that was started by Japan bombing Pearl Harbor. (Our family is from Hawaii so that too means alot.)

My grandpa Oshita served in the 100th Battallion of the 442nd Infantry. The motto of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team was “go for broke.” It’s a gambling term that means risking everything on one great effort to win big. The soldiers of the 442nd needed to win big. They were Nisei - American-born sons of Japanese immigrants. They fought two wars: the Germans in Europe and the prejudice in America. The unit became the most highly decorated military unit in the history of the United States Armed Forces, including 21 Medal of Honor recipients, earning the nickname “The Purple Heart Battalion”. The unit’s exemplary service and many decorations did not change the attitudes of the general U.S. population to people of Japanese descent after World War II. Veterans were welcomed home by signs that read “No Japs Allowed” and “No Japs Wanted”, and many veterans were denied service in shops and restaurants, and had their homes and property vandalized. This attitude makes me even more proud of grandpa Oshita and Grandpa Grant (who served in the Navy). I'm so proud to be Japanese/American and so proud of all those who have served our Country and for fighting for our FREEDOM!

Their Unit's Fight Song...
Four-Forty-Second Infantry— We're the boys of Hawai'i nei— We'll fight for you And the Red, White and Blue, And go to the front... And back to Honolulu-lulu. Fighting for dear old Uncle Sam Go for broke! HOOH! We don't give a damn! We'll round up the Huns At the point of our guns, And vict'ry will be ours! GO FOR BROKE! FOUR-FOUR-TWO! GO FOR BROKE! FOUR-FOUR-TWO! And vict'ry will be ours!

Ahh, it's over!

2009-11-02T19:14:00.000-08:00

A must have Nutrition Book for all us mums with or without "fussy eaters"!

I was hit hard, really hard with that wretched flu that's goin around. Just as I was beginning to feel better another son would get sick and it'd start all over for me. But I'm on the mend now...got on the treadmill and cranked out a solid 40 minutes today! Once again I was reminded of the importance of eating as clean as I can and how much better I feel when I exercise. (Cause who knows, that flu could've lasted much longer or could've turned into something much worse!)

I just received the most fantastic Nutrition book by a blogging friend...Kate Di Prima. You must check her out here. She's A-MAZING...Author of a fantastic nutrition book, writes super informative blog and is just oh-so sweet...oh and did I mention she's Australia's leading dietician? Check out her website while you're at it too! here You'll LOVE it!

***I can't forget...thank you so much to my parents who helped me out in SO many ways while I was sick...I love my family! ;-D

"Let's get it started in here"

2009-10-24T22:14:00.000-07:00

I've gotta confess: Lately I just can't seem to give myself the same butt-kicking workouts that I give daily to others...why is that? I've lost my mojo...You know that movie "Stellas Got Her Groove Back"? Well, I've lost my groove...and I need it BACK now! I used to have the kind of self-discipline that even my husband was in awe of. Just gotta get back into my groove, and maybe a little extra Black Eyed Peas on my iPOD will do the trick! ;-D

In Another Life...

2009-10-19T14:52:00.001-07:00

picture from The Bottom of the Ironing Basket!

Quote from The Bottom of the Ironing Basket

In another life, I would love to have been a stylist! (just wasn't blessed with that talent in this life) In my blogging world, the blogs I look at most often are sharing either decorating ideas or fashion. One of the blogs I just discovered is brilliant! Fashionably Inspired will post an actress or model on her blog, then break down the outfit...and then you ready for this one?...you can click on a piece and order it for yourself right then and there!! I LOVE that! Check her out!

(Picture & Quote are from another favorite blog I just found: The Bottom of the Ironing Basket!!)

Sorry Edward, but I'm with Jacob now

2009-10-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

Taylor Lautner aka JACOB
My own real-life "Jacob"!
Oh goodness, it's officially begun. I'm feeling the giddiness that I experienced this time last year. New Moon is coming out NEXT month and I am SO excited!

When I read the books the FIRST time, Edward was my man. Then I read them again, and by the third time (I know...pathetic) I realized I was hooked on Jacob. I won't bore you with the reasons why, just that Jacob reminds me of my own hubby C. He's strong, loves deeply and is just plain HOT, body temperature that is! (hehe, don't want to make any of my family, who may be reading this nauseous)

You Only Live Once

2009-09-28T16:48:00.001-07:00

YOLO=You Only Live Once

I LOVE IT!!

This is the board I want!

Pictures via CoastalLiving.com

(Coastal Living Mag/October 2009)

It's always a treat for me when I can spend an afternoon reading my Coastal Living Magazine! Today I was so excited when I saw that this months issue had a story on paddling! This last summer I mentioned to Carl that since we were a bit aways from the ocean, I'd like to take up paddling. I looked up this website and fell in love in an instant!

YOLO stands for You Only Live Once! How fantastic is that?!! I read all I could about this company and am so excited to save up for one of these beauties! Our whole family will enjoy it next summer...and the best bit? Not only is it FUN but it's also great exercise!! Check out what owner Brody Welte, Personal Trainer, Recreation Leader and Adventure Guide says about it:

"Stand up paddling is such a fun and useful tool to help out our country’s biggest health problem, being sedentary. Most people are a short drive from some form of water, whether it is the crystal clear blue waters of Hawaii and Florida, the chilly waters of the Great Lakes or your local river, lake or pond. There are very few “exercises” that are as all encompassing, full body, functional workout that are this much fun. Stand up paddling will open the door for people to live the healthy lifestyle that we need. If you have not tried stand up paddling you need to find out the about the fun you have been missing. It is a fantastic way to get started being active and being healthy."

So are you sold? I sure am...see you out in the water...Kristen

Saturday evening you'll find me here...

2009-09-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

I'm almost there...I can't wait for Saturday evening...

My speaking assignment is coming up this Saturday afternoon from 2-4 pm. I kid you not but at 4:15 pm I will be lying or is it laying (never could get that right) in bed doing one of 3 things: vegging out in front of the TV, reading my book Pemberley Manor, or flipping through my InStyle magazine. Whatever it is I wind up doing, I'll be doing it completely relaxed!

Isn't that hammock lovely?

My own personal heaven.

And I love the bedding!

How are you going to relax this weekend?

Are You Happy?

2009-09-23T14:00:00.000-07:00

(Image from Alicia States Photography)

About 10months ago my husband and I made a HUGE decision for our family. We decided that C. would leave his high stress but well-paying job for a move to Oregon where the unemployment rate was one of the highest in the Nation! Why did we do this? We wanted to be closer to family and we needed him home more. You see, he would travel for weeks at a time and we hardly ever spent time with him.

So we're here in Oregon and loving it. It's been a very challenging year for our family but we're so much closer as the result of it. C. and I have done our best to remain positive and have a good outlook. And to be honest, I wasn't sure I was succeeding until the Stake Relief Society President asked me to speak at our Women's Conference (which is this Saturday). She said she had been watching me the last several months and noticed that I always had a smile on my face. Knowing our families circumstances she wondered how it was that I always seemed happy.

I've thought about that a lot lately and my conclusion is this: What other choice do I have? Should I wallow in my self pity thinking my life is so much harder then everyone else's. Should I sink into a deep depression and just give up? Should I stop going to Church because life's so unfair. No way! For ME, that's just rubbish! SO many people have it way harder then me. This was just one hurdle in my life that I was going to clear! I've never been one to give up...I HATE that.

Around every challenge and hiccup we faced I looked for the positive in it...I won't lie...sometimes it really sucked! But I got over it and took it one day at a time. Putting a smile on my face even if inside I felt a little beat up...cause you know by the end of that day...I remembered all the things that I was grateful for!

The result of this last year: C. started a new job this week (that seems too good to be true, which is why I can't even speak of it for fear it might disappear tomorrow) and I'll be DONE with my talk at the Womens Conference.

So, if you're reading this and your life kinda stinks right now, remember this:

"We do not remember days, we remember moments"

Try to be cheerful for a moment. Maybe you can't promise to be patient for the entire year your child is 2. That's alright. You can be patient for a moment, and then for another moment, and then maybe for the moment in between that links the first to moments. You can do it!

We're still learning...

2009-09-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

Kruse Farms, OR
My little helpers

I think it's refreshing that my husband and I don't know EVERYTHING about each other! It keeps 'things' interesting and fresh. I LOVE flowers...fresh flowers. NOT the kind of flowers that you get from the gas station down the road, or outrageously priced flowers from the grocery store or the florist. I like the flowers that I can pick from a tree or bush and put behind my ear. Or the kind of flowers (like at Kruse Farms) where I bring a basket, pair of scissors and get a huge arm full of flowers for less then $3!

Saturday I took three willing helpers with me to pick some flowers. The flowers were beautiful. When I brought them home my husband looked at me kinda funny and this was the following conversation...

C: "Why did you pick flowers? You hate flowers."

Me: "What, are you crazy I LOVE FLOWERS!"

C: "No, you've always hated them, remember when I got them for you and you left them on top of the microwave and they died?"

Kristen, "Umm, that was like 14 years ago, when we were dating. I always loved the plumerias you picked for me that I wore in my hair."
C: "Oh, ok."
(He then goes back to playing his computer game without another thought.)

It's funny sometimes what husbands think we like or dislike. I love the story of my dad getting my mom a baseball handheld game for their anniversay cause he thought she'd like it, or when C got me a towel that would make my hair dry faster, along with a handheld sewing machine for my birthday...WHAT was he thinking?!
Oh well...maybe it's my fault...maybe I just need to knock him aside the head with more obvious hints of what I like...or maybe I'll just go on with life and enjoy this road we're on discovering new and wonderful things about eachother...

A Challenge...that I'll gladly accept!

2009-09-17T09:35:00.001-07:00

Hoping that my skin might look like this

(most likely touched up, and probably 18 yrs. old)

beautiful models skin!

;-D
Could this be the fountain of youth...?

There are a few blogs that I love to read everyday...their witty, hilarious, informative & just beautiful to look at. One of these blogs is Bella Mamma! She offers great advice & tips from beauty, health and everything in between. One of the products she is trying is the RoC Pack. It's a 12 week challenge PROMISING TO MAKE YOU LOOK 10 YEARS YOUNGER! So, I searched all over high and low for this product and I don't think it's offered here in the States! (or maybe they just call it something else) What I did find was the RoC Multi-Correxion Daily Perfecting System! Promises the same thing (but without the challenge) I'm gonna try it...am I hoping for a miracle?...yep! Realistically though, I'm just hoping for a brighter complexion & maybe for a few wrinkles to 'disappear'! So here goes...I'll let you know how it turns out in a couple of weeks...Oh yeah, and the best bit is you can get a $10 off coupon here!! C'mon who wouldn't like that?!

Kisses...I love them all

2009-09-14T10:53:00.000-07:00

Mr. Darcy: "You must know... surely, you must know it was all for you. You are too generous to trifle with me. I believe you spoke with my aunt last night, and it has taught me to hope as I'd scarcely allowed myself before. If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me so at once. My affections and wishes have not changed, but one word from you will silence me forever. If, however, your feelings have changed, I will have to tell you: you have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love, I love, I love you. I never wish to be parted from you from this day on."

(Ohhh, a personal favorite!!)

Kissin in the rain

Kissin & not caring who sees you

The first kiss

Gilbert Blythe: "It'll be three years before I finish medical school. Even then there won't be any diamond sunbursts or marble halls."

Ann Shirley: "I don't want diamond sunbursts, or marble halls. I just want you."

Kissin after a long (or short) time apart!

Boys & Girls, the color of the day is...

2009-09-11T08:18:00.000-07:00

YELLOW!!

Which of these pictures inspire you the most today?

Wednesdays Pleasure

2009-09-09T09:48:00.001-07:00

There are days when lying around reading a good book is all I want to do...

MICHELLE...I just couldn't resist!!

2009-08-31T20:57:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it?

She ACTUALLY made the ottoman/coffee table and pillows!

Her e-n-t-r-y-w-a-y hall!!!!

Where her two handsome sons get to sleep...
doesn't it look like a page out of a Pottery Barn catalog?!

Just a 'little' project she took on!

What DON'T I love about this room?

I really, really want this room!

I just came across one of the most wonderful blogs I have seen in awhile! Michelle (a fellow BYU-Her) is married to a friend of ours and we had the pleasure of meeting her a couple of times. It wasn't hard to miss how beautiful she was OR how sweet, however if I had known THEN just how talented she was...I may have had to FORCE or at the very least beg her to be my new BFF! Check out her amazing decor above (she actually did this herself and in a very thrifty manner, which I'm all about!) Hope you don't mind Michelle...but we are officially blogging buddies! ;-)

Don't miss out on her blog!

Vacation to beautiful Oregon Coast!

2009-08-27T20:43:00.000-07:00

Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport,OR

This beach was beautiful and we had great weather!

Waiting patiently for dinner

We played in the water, threw the football, and ran races!

Florence, OR...what a great little beach town with some great shopping!

Hot Rod Restaurant. The boys got to sit in an actual 1950's car while

they ate dinner AND their kids meal came in a hot rod car box! It was too cool!

"How far do you think the swim is to Hawaii?"

A HUGE thank you to my mom and dad who took our family on a GREAT trip to the Oregon Coast! I couldn't believe how beautiful it was there! We had so much fun with them and the food was great! We can't wait to return!!!!

My Tuesday Favorites

2009-08-18T18:28:00.001-07:00

I love this outfit by jcrew minus the scarf...I can't really pull off the scarf look all that well. But I do LOVE the pants, belt and top!!

Okay, something about this outfit I just love! Of course the skirt would have to be a bit longer! ;-)

Guess what these sweats are called? Give up? Hollister calls themtheir "Awesome Butt Sweats". So are they promising me that my butt will look awesome if I put these suckers on? Cause if so, I'm running out the door right now to buy me a pair! :-)

I LOVE Benefits 'Bad gal Lash' Mascara...and yeah, I do feel pretty bad !@$ when I wear it...well not really,but I like to pretend that I am