thatgirldina

Long time no see...

2008-07-03T11:47:00.000-07:00

and a fun Google search from Miss Sadira of Foolsewoode!

So the whole leave my letterpress post at the top of the blog did absolutely nothing to help me find a printer in Northern Arizona. But, never fear....Sadie and Megan are coming to my rescue and hopefully after all the excitement of the holiday weekend dies down, I'll have more to report on the letterpress front. Until then, I am participating in this little game....

"_______"
You KNOW you wanna do it too! Come on...all the cool kids posted about it in their blogs.

Here's the deal....
1: Type in “[your name] needs” in the Google search:
Dina needs a husband right away
(Mission accomplished. haha! Some in my circle might consider this my own personal motto. Ouch!)

2: Type in “[your name] looks like” in Google search:
Dina looks like an animal responding to a strange noise
(Ohhhh reallllllyyyyy?!?! Maybe this is how I attracted said husband. winkwinknudgenudge)

3: Type in “[your name] does” in Google search:
Dina does not come across as very likable
(Well that's just plain mean.)

4: Type in “[your name] hates” in Google search:
Dina hates being filmed
(Actually I am pretty camera shy. I can never figure out what to say and I'm quite clumsy. Even as a child, I usually wound up looking like a big dork in all our family home movies)

5: Type in “[your name] goes to” in Google search:
Dina goes to the police with her wild ideas and the police chief, aware of her mental instability, takes her story with numerous grains of salt.
(I don't even know what to say about this!)

7. Type in “[your name] eats” in Google search:
Dina eats an apple.
(Actually I have been on an apple kick lately, so this is spot on.)

8: Type in “[your name] has” in Google search:
Dina has nice tetas
(Thank you. I think.)

9: Type in “[your name] died” in Google Search:
Dina died of severe head injuries.
(ohpleaseohpleaseohplease say this will not be true! I always envisioned myself dying in my sleep, or drowning, which I suppose is really no less horrible.)

10: Type in “[your name] will” in Google search:
Dina will be headlining a "Divas" weekend at Butlins
(Have your people call my people. Make it happen.)

A cry for help!

2008-06-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

For those of you who know me in real life, you know I am a graphic designer. For those who don't...now you do! :) For many years (20 to be exact. wow.), I've been mostly designing for the corporate world, which tends to be quite "by the book" and not very exciting or overly creative. Not that I don't enjoy it, I do, but I stumbled across a fantastic opportunity to finally bring to life some of the wild ideas I've had stuck in my head or sketchbook for far too long. However, unfortunately, I've run across a stumbling block of sorts...

Now, we all know that living in a small town has plenty of benefits, but there are also a few drawbacks as well. Especially when trying to locate the services of certain creative individuals and businesses. We simply do not have a lot of resources at our fingertips like those who live in bigger cities. So, I'm throwing this out into the blogging world in hopes that someone picks it up in a Google search, or stumbles across this post and exclaims "I CAN HELP!" and sends me an email.

I'm currently designing a line of social stationary. You know...note cards, letterhead, calling cards, etc... that I would like to have letterpressed either locally or at least by someone here in Northern Arizona. At some point, I am hoping to be able to convince this person to teach me a few tricks of the trade and be able to purchase a press of my very own in the future, but for now I will just need their expertise and willingness to print my stuff. I've spent hours upon hours searching the web for a letterpress in Northern Arizona, but have basically come up empty-handed. Does anyone out there in bloggyland know of anyone nearby who might be able to come to my rescue? I promise you will be handsomely rewarded with a lifetime supply of all the bespoke paperie you could ever want or need.

Deep Conversations with Niko...

2008-05-31T07:26:00.000-07:00

This morning, while trying to scurry out the door for work...

Me: Niko, meet me in the grown-up bathroom, we need to brush your teeth and hair.
N: Oooookkkkaaaayyyyyy (as he's running ahead of me down the long hallway)
Me (upon arriving at said bathroom and there is no Niko to be found) : Well, I suppose you musn't be in much of a hurry to get outside to have fun if I beat you to the bathroom.
N (from behind my closet door) : Mom...I didn't want to scare you, but I'm coming out of the closet. I've been in here for aaaaaages and I just can't take it anymore.

Ohhhh, reeeeeaaaaallllllllllyyyy.......

Family Friendly Fun-tastic Friday!

2008-05-30T08:07:00.001-07:00

Well I might not be posting daily, but I'm posting regularly. Hey, it's a start people! :)

Guess what's happenning in Prescott tomorrow night? YUP! That's right! It's the official opening night of The Arizona Revue at the historic Elk's Opera House!

Now before you go off thinking this is some sort of small town local "talent show" of sorts, let me set the record straight...these are the professionals bay-bee! Visit their website to check out the performer's bios. You'll be impressed!

I've been attending this show with my mom every year since...since...since, well, it wasn't even called the "The Arizona Revue", it was "The Arizona Jamboree". And that's a long time. It's always chock full of singing, dancing, a little local and not so local humor, as well as the loverly Ms. Melissa Ruffner...a local historian and story-teller, who has been referred to as The First Lady of Prescott. You really won't want to miss it. Seriously. Get your tickets now because it does sell out rather quickly. Here's the skinny:

SEASON:
2008 May 25th-September 6th
Doors open at 6PM, Pre-show starts at 6:30PM, Showtime is 7PM

LOCATION:
Elks Opera House • 117 E. Gurley St.

TICKETS:
Hassayampa Inn or Prescott Chamber of Commerce
General Admission Adults $20.00
Children (12 & Under) $10.00.

If your feeling a little flush in the pocketbook or are visiting from out of town, you might want to check out the Dinner and a Show or Overnight Packages offered by the Hassayampa Inn.

Year after year the Arizona Revue has been our summer ritual, only this year it will be quite a sad evening for me. As I mentioned, this is one of my mother and I's sort of "Girls Night Out" evenings, but these past 4 or so years we've included my grandmother. She had an awful fight with Alzheimer's for many years and passed away recently. For about the last year of her life she was so angry and could snap at you or get violent at the drop of a hat, but I will always remember her sitting next to me, watching the show, singing along and smiling from ear to ear. She'd lean in and whisper to me "WOW! They are really good aren't they Cookie?!" probably 10 or 12 times throughout the evening. It was as if she had found her happy place again.

Family Friendly (and not so family friendly) Funtastic Friday!

2008-05-23T08:48:00.000-07:00

If you happen to be in Prescott this holiday weekend, boy are you in luck! There certainly is no shortage of fun stuff to do these next few days, that's for sure! This is just a small sampling of the stuff you won't want to miss....

I know I already posted about it, but it deserves yet another mention. If you haven't already got your self out of bed and headed over to the Prescott Farmers Market, I highly suggest you do so. Why not pick up some fresh veggies to throw on the grill this Memorial Day from some of our local farmers. Surely, they will taste yummier than those from the big box store. Come on now, set that alarm clock early, program the coffee pot and get out there. I know there is a touch of rain in the forecast, but don't let that stop you....I promise, you won't be disappointed.

If you find yourself sans kiddos this holiday, why not take a drive out to Chino Valley and visit Granite Creek Vineyards? Did you know they are hosting a Summer Saturday Music and Picnic Series, all summer long? It's open from 1-5pm, admission is free, and although it's a bit late to reserve one of their homemade wine picnic lunches (they require a 2 day advance notice), you could always pack your own yummies (perhaps from the Prescott Farmer's Market?). This weekend Shri is on the schedule, but check out their website for a full summer schedule. Once C and I find our healthy-selves once again, this is going to be one of the first things I am putting on our social calendar. Tres Romantique, dontcha think?!

This weekend also happens to be the 34th Annual Phippen Western Art Show on the Courthouse Square. The show runs all weekend long and features some of the top Western Artists in the country. Growing up in Prescott, I cannot remember ever NOT attending this show on the square. It never, ever disappoints. I look forward to it every year. Yes, this is coming from me...lover of all things mod and kitsch. Not to mention, it draws quite the crowd which happens to be great for those of us into "people watching". Oh, and you won't want to miss the Quick Draw & Auction happening both Saturday and Sunday at 2pm.

If you cannot make it downtown, or don't feel like braving the crowds with your kids, the Phippen Art Museum out on Highway 89 also offers the The Family Discovery Center. From the website: "At the Family Discovery Center, families can find activities such as art projects, puzzles, computer software and games along with books that pertain to the current exhibit and general art. It is available to children and their families during museum hours."

If you looking for something with a little more excitement and edge of your seat action, the Arizona Adrenaline have a game this Saturday against the Utah Saints. Kickoff is at 6:30pm at Tim's Toyota Center in PV. I have yet to go to an Adrenaline game, but I hear it's really a ton of fun...and did you know that they are on course to clinch a playoff spot? Adrenaline football might be just what I need to get me through my summer hockey withdrawals.

Now, I realize this next event is not child-friendly, but I have to post it anyway. My nephew Derek attends the Zaki Gordon Film Institute in Sedona and their 8th Annual Short Film Festival is being held this weekend. C and I are unable to make it, which I am absolutely heartbroken over. The entire weekend looks like an absolute blast and it's killing me to know we won't be there to support D and his film, not to mention join in on all the festivities. Hello.... Vegas night?!? A screening of Juno and a Q&A with the producer?!? Insane raffle prizes?!? How crazy fun does this sound!?! I wanna go so bad. Sigh. :(
______________________________________________
Whew! Looks like I better get better already. Just look at all the fun I'm missing out on! Never fear though, as I will be relaxing and hopefully getting to feeling like my old self again. If all goes as planned I will be spending this evening with the ever-so-loverly Miss Sadira of Foolsewoode and some girlie friends playing catch-up, nibbling pupcakes and sipping on some sort of cocktail. Tomorrow we have 3, yes count 'em 3 (!!!) birthday parties to attend. 2 are of the kiddo variety and both happen to be happening at Peter Piper Pizza within an hour of each other. The other, later in the evening, is a more grown-up affair. And Sunday, we are hosting a family BBQ at our place in honor of my father's 59th birthday. Come on antibiotics...work your magic.

If you haven't already guessed...

2008-05-22T10:39:00.000-07:00

I've been a bit under the weather these past couple of weeks. It happens every year about this time. The dry, burning sinus headache. The throbbing pain in my temples. Ahhh, the sacrifices we make in order to live in the beautiful town of Prescott. But what good is being surrounded by all this beauty when you can't even get out and enjoy it?! Guess I picked a bad time to try and start my regular family friendly Fun-tastic Friday posts 'eh?! Never fear however, I've got some great stuff coming up tomorrow for those of us who are able to breath "on the outside".

Hopefully soon, the high pollen season will pass. Until then, I'll have to be content with staying indoors, reading my newest favorite magazine and cozying up with my best boys. If anyone has any ideas on how to rid yourself of an awful migraine-like allergy related headache, I'd really appreciate them. I'm desperate!

Oh, and online shopping....

Seriously. How insanely cute are these?!? I took it as a sign that I was meant to have them when the only size left is mine.

Because my brain refuses to put a coherent thought together.

2008-05-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

I've been under the weather this past week with an insane sinus headache/infection and ear infection, but I didn't want to neglect my poor blog, so I'm cheating, and posting this, which I copied from the loverly Miss Liz.

The rules say you can only type one word.

1. Where is your cell phone? desk
2. Your significant other? C
3. Your hair? boring
4. Your Skin? peely
5. Your mother? generous
6. Your favorite thing? chocolate
7. Your dream last night? sexy
8. Your favorite drink? coffee
9. Your dream/goal? travel
10. The room you're in? office
11. Your ex? miserable
12. Your fear? drowning
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? fulfilled
14. Where were you last night? sofa
15. What you're not? skinny
16. Muffins? fresh
17. One of your wish list items? puppies
18. Where you grew up? Prescott
19. The last thing you did? critiqued
20. What are you wearing? black
21. Your TV? eyesore
22. Your pet(S)? dog
23. Your computer? hypnotizing
24. Your life? charmed
25. Your mood? dopey
26. Missing someone? gramma
27. Your car? empty
28. Something you're not wearing? undies (teeheehee)
29. Favorite Store? sephora
30. Your summer? hectic
31. Like someone? many
32. Your favorite color? black
33. When is the last time you laughed? today
34. Last time you cried? yesterday
35. Who will/would re-post this? sadie

Family Friendly Fun-tastic Friday!

2008-05-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year....

No, not Christmas, silly! I'm all aflutter because tomorrow....yes tomorrow, is the much anticipated opening of the Prescott Farmer's Market!

The market officially opens at 7:30am, but I might have to sneak down there a bit early since I have to meet my mom at an estate sale at 8. Thank goodness they are near each other! If you see me sneaking around, sampling and photographing then be sure to say hello. Or at least wave or something. I'm friendly. I promise. :)

I look forward to the Farmer's Market every year. For me, it means the "official" beginning of summer! We are so lucky to have a market such a wide variety of vendors...everything from amazing salmon tamales to fresh peanut butter, to wine and a wide array of the freshest fruits and vegetables. At least that's what I remember from last year. I can only imagine that this year it will have grown a bit.

If for some strange reason, you can't make it, I highly suggest checking out their website. It's chock full of information on what's in season, as well as a yummy recipes and links to other relevant websites.

________________________________

I also want to wish a very Happy Early Mother's Day to everyone! I hope you all have a lovely day and are able to spend it with those you love, doing exactly what you want to be doing. I will be visiting the Victorian Garden Tea Room for high tea with my dear, sweet maman. XOXO

Balls.

2008-05-06T07:07:00.001-07:00

Niko and I share some of our most meaningful conversations over his morning bath. Here's a recent snippet...

N: Mom? Guess what?

Me: What's that Bear?

N: Did you know that all boys have balls?

Me: Reeaaallllllly? They do?

N: Yes. They do. (dramatic pause) 2 of them actually.

Me: And just where do they keep these balls?

N: In their heads silly! They're eye-ballllllllssssss! (oodles of giggling because he KNOWS he's just "got" me)

Me: You're right Bear! Eyeballs! Why didn't I think of that?!

The end.

Family Friendly Fun-tastic Friday!

2008-05-01T12:53:00.001-07:00

In an effort to keep myself blogging on a regular basis as well as practice my photography skills, I'm starting a weekly post dedicated to an upcoming kid-friendly or family event in the Prescott area. Whether or not my family and I participate or actually attend every event has yet to be determined, but I did want to spread the word, in case there were others out there looking for something festive to do over the upcoming summer weekends.

If C, Niko and I do venture out, I will be sure to post a detailed recap complete with pics. Hopefully, we'll all be able to discover some lesser known treasures right here in our little town, as well as promote some of the fun festivals and events that are going on this summer.

So, charge those camera batteries, bookmark this site and be sure to circle the dates on your calendar. I'm really looking forward to getting all of our lazy winterized butts away from the tele and out into this gorgeous Arizona sunshine.

This weekend we've got a lot of superfunstuff on the agenda, but the highlight for Niko is definitely going to be our trip to the Prescott Valley Raceway. He has no idea where we are going Saturday night, just that it's going to be a big surprise. C and I are just going to load him up in the truck and head out.

We've heard a lot of amazing things about the races at the fairgrounds, but never had the chance to visit. This Saturday will be our first glimpse of what all the fuss is really about. Cross your fingers our little tid bit of insider information gets us up close and personal with some of the drivers as well as a chance to take some great pics with all those cars!

If anyone else is interested in experiencing the roar of the engines and the smell of burning rubber, here's the scoop:

Saturday, MAY 3
IMCA Modifieds - Challenge Cup Sprints
NADCAR Dwarf Cars - Super Mini Stocks
Pit Gate opens at 5 pm
Main gate opens at 6:00pm
Racing starts at 7:00pm

Sunday, MAY 4
Mud Bogs - 1PM Start
Pit Gate open at 10AM
Spectator Gate open at NOON $5
___________________________________________

General Admission

Adults $12.00

12 and under $5.00

7 and under FREE

**PREMIERE SHOWS

Adults $15.00 . 12 and under $7.00 . 7 and under FREE
Pit Pass $30.00 . Practice $15.00

See you on the starting line!

Oh, and if you can't make it to the track, they have a live webcam.

The above pic is a generic stock photo. I was hoping to gain permission from PV raceway to use one of their actual pics, but hadn't heard back from them as of yet.

The play by play....

2008-04-30T10:14:00.000-07:00

It was a mad dash to make it from the office to Niko's school to the house to dress then to the baseball field allthewayacrosstown by 6PM, but we made it! Whew! I don't know how in the world we are going to do this all over again tomorrow night since the game is at 5 instead of 6, but I'm sure we'll all manage. This is life in the big little leagues after all!

Get a load of my future Hall of Famer in action....

C and I were joined in the cheering section by my mom, who entertained us with stories of my little brothers t-ball days. I think she got a bit teary eyed even. Such a bunch of saps in my family, I tell ya. Of course, her tears could have been the result of all the dust and wind. Actually, I think we were all just sad because we felt sooooooo olllllddddd! Was it really 30-ish years ago that we were playing on this same exact field? I suppose that's one of the things I love most about our sleepy little town....not much has really changed in all that time. Okay, well, maybe there have been a few of changes....like our ultra modern YMCA across the parking lot and the addition of the High School's beautiful theatre...but, whatever.

The score wound up tied, which...well...to be fair, we didn't really keep score. I wasn't aware that in t-ball there is only 2 innings, no outs and everyone bats twice. Oh, and everyone gets hugs, high-fives, juice and cookies at the end.

I'm slowly getting back into the swing of things around here.

2008-04-29T14:37:00.000-07:00

I do know I was gone for quite some time, but sheesh! I just realized that my little bear is almost a big 6 year old first grader, yet my bio in the side bar still states he is only a teensy-tiny 4 year old. It has been quite a while hasn't it?

Tonight we have Niko's first ever t-ball game. He's been looking forward to this night ever since he and C made the ceremonious first baseball glove shopping trip. I've lost count of the "only X more sleeps til my big game mom!" conversations we've had over the past few weeks, and I'd be surprised if he got more than 10 minutes of sleep last night in anticipation of "THE BIG GAME". I'll definitely be posting a full report complete with pics tomorrow.

And so it begins. I cannot help but get a bit misty eyed when I think that just last year, he was too small, too young, and at times, too scared for almost every sport or extra-curricular activity in town. He would sit on the sidelines with me and ask when was it going to be his turn, and why was he not big enough yet, or he'd put on that shy face and hide behind my leg. This past year, he's done do much growing up. Now, he can't wait to play soccer with his cousins, and dreams of becoming a pro golfer while on break from his professional hockey career. He has swimming lessons on his calendar, and wants to learn to skateboard. We're taking the training wheels off his bike soon. His world crashes down if Jimmy Johnson doesn't win the Sunday nascar race....he's 100% all boy, that's for sure! I'm just not 100% sure I want him growing up so fast.
Sniff.

Just the teensiest of hiatuses....

2008-04-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

Hiatuses? Is that really a word? Is this thing still even on?!?!

So.... WOW! Has is really been almost 11 months since I last blogged? Yes it has! And now I suppose I got some 'splanin' to do! And boy oh boy, what an update it will be.

Speaking of boys...I somehow managed to wrangle me up a new one. He's a real keeper.

Hubbahubba....hubby! More on that story later, I promise. (and no, I'm not dining naked. Strapless people...strapless!)

For now,I just wanted to pop in to make sure I did in fact still have a blog and find out whether or not Blogger had permanently done away with me.

Apparently, you're still stuck with me. :)

Swoon.

2007-07-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

I think a roadtrip to Scottsdale is in order ASAP! WhyOhWhyOhWhy is this movie not playing here in town?!

Hmmmm...a night of Lemon Merengue Martinis at my favorite speakeasy, good friends and this movie....pure heaven.

Is it a date? Anyone? Hellll-ooooooooo....

Shhhhhh....

2007-05-13T19:20:00.000-07:00

Niko, Koryne and I have been sneaking away to our new favorite playground, Flinn Park. It's hidden away at the corner on Linwood and Josephine in one of the older neighborhoods here in Prescott. Although it's just the teeniest of hideaways, it's big on "stuff" to do.

Somehow, they managed to pack a basketball court, a baseball diamond, swingset, jungle gym and a few BBQ/picnic areas all onto a little corner lot.
You'd think with all the equipment, my son would have no use for the giant rock pile located just a small hop over the fence, but come to find out, this is his favorite reason to visit. He was hesitant at first, but once his partner in crime, Koryne, headed up, there was no stopping him.
Thank goodness Auntie Terra stepped in to make sure the little ones were safe, since I, as usual, was not wearing the most appropriate of footwear. I was so proud of my "big kid" and I could tell he was pretty proud of himself as well. I think I might have a future rock climber on my hands!

On this day, and the few times we've visited since, it seems that either this isn't one of the most popular parks in town, or alot of people don't know about it, which is just fine. So shhhh! It'll be our little secret.

So. Um. Yeah.

2007-05-07T08:04:00.000-07:00

I seem to have up and dissappeared again haven't I?! A big hug and thank yous to everyone who has stopped by these past couple of weeks. It means alot to me that I am still getting visitors.

I've been meaning to do a re-cap of Miss Sadira and I's now famous "Shop-O-Rama", and I am still planning on it. In fact, it's written but I had a bit of camera trouble and have yet to finish up with pics. And we all know that the pics make the post right?! You can imagine my shock and dissappointment as I plugged in my camera to download recent photos, when I was given the Apple version of the "eternal spinning candy wheel of death". I could only sit there and watch as over 5000 irreplaceable photos just vanished before my very eyes. Luckily for me, I remembered seeing a folder of photos somewhere that looked as if they were some sort of backup files....found them, and all was well once again. Needless to say, a serious backup session is in order. I did lose a few precious pics of Paris and one of my son that I am just heartbroken over, but it could have been much worse.

Without boring you with all the sordid details, these past few weeks have been quite enlightening. I've had my heart both broken and also filled with more love than one girl deserves. I've been blessed (or cursed?) with oodles of overindulgences both of the shopping and food varieties. Niko and I have discovered our new favorite "secret park" which, once I post about will no longer be secret as everyone will want to play there. I was so very honored to be included in the Coyote Radio Theater Blogfest get-together at The Raven Cafe which was hosted by fellow bloggers Granny J and Mike B. I also overcame a mad case of shyness and was even interviewed along with Miss Sadira for the Prescott ArtBeat radio show. Fun! Fun!

And while I must admit, I did enjoy my little blogging break, I'm so glad to be back at it.

When we last saw our heroine...

2007-04-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

she was about to embark on an amazing, much needed and deserved, girlie getaway. The stage had been set for a wild few days of flirty fun, sun, mad shopping and a little slightly drunken debauchery. And while our heroine fancies herself quite the writer, she pales in comparison to the clever wit and charm of Miss Sadira of Foolsewoode. I highly recommend that you pop on over and pay her a visit if you want to read the weekend play-by-play action. I'll be back later tonight with the highlight reel.

Stay tuned!

You learn something new everyday

2007-04-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

Today I learned that:
You can get pink-eye in BOTH eyes. And yes, it sucks. In fact, it sucks twice as bad.
There is nothing URGENT about Urgent Care.
I have the most fantabulous friends both on my blog and in real life.
"In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes."

I am happy to report that as of this morning the pink eye seems to be getting better. Although I still woke up with the gooey slimy stuff, there is no more burning. I've also managed to get through an entire night's sleep without pulling out my eyelashes. Which is good, since I plan on batting them alot this weekend. Wende, the warm compress method works wonders for the itching and burning! I cannot thank you enough!

The trip to urgent care was not the highlight of my day, that's for sure, but I muddled through. At one point Miss Sadira sent me a text that said "Thank goodness you aren't in labor". Even if I were, I don't think I would have got out of there any sooner. The place is seriously understaffed. $140 later and after a 4 hour wait, I was finally on my way home.

And well, since the urgent care visit and household chores took up most of the afternoon, I left the taxes for today. Ugh. Why am I procrastinating?!?! Could it be because I am going to owe Uncle Sam a pretty penny and I'm trying to "creatively" come up with a way to lessen the blow? Hmmmmm....

A big kiss to everyone who has stopped by lately. You all are so sweet and I am such a lucky girl to have such wonderful visitors. I promise just as soon as I get my head out from under this pile of receipts, I will be out and about popping into your blogs again.

Take it off...take it all off....

2007-04-07T09:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday! I hope all my little Peaches enjoyed a wonderful holday weekend! I know I did. Alot of time with family and friends, good conversation, creating, a bit of work and HUGE amount of chocolate...perfection! Well, except that "huge amount of chocolate" part, but nobody's perfect, right?

Easter itself was such a treat! It started with Miss Sadira bringing Niko and I oodles of goodies! Unfortunately, we tore into our gifts before I had a chance to even take pictures! Although, I think I remember Sadie mentioning that she did? My mom also stopped by with a giant chocolate bunny for Niko (that she left in the car a tad too long that morning which resulted in his ears looking a little on the droopy side! But, chocolate is chocolate and he's not one to turn it down. Takes after his maman. haha.) as well as a new basketball book. Niko and I had put together a little basket of goodies for Sadie, made some yummy pupcakes, and filled the cutest bunny bag full of kisses for my mom. I think they all were a hit and everyone really enjoyed our cute enchange. My dad treated us to dinner at Red Lobster, which would have been wonderful if my allergies would have allowed me to taste any of it. I opted for soup and salad, since I just couldn't see spending a large amount of cash on something I couldn't enjoy. After more pupcakes with my parents, my mom offered to keep Niko overnight (!!!) so that I could go home and relax. Ahhhhh. But what did I do? What any other child-less mother would do early in the evening....I went out! tee hee. Well, not really out-out, just over to Foolsewoode for some tea, and to watch "The Last Kiss" with Miss Sadira. The perfect ending to a fantastic day!

TMI WARNING: I woke up this morning with my eye all crusted over with green gooey stuff. Ew. I think I have pink eye. Now, in researching, there are 2 types. That which is viral, and another that is brought on by severe allergies. I was thinking mine was of the allergy variety, but now I am not so sure, as my allergy symptoms this year have also included alot of cold/flu symptoms. Confused? Me too. Either way, to be safe, I called in sick today...sort of. I'm going to keep an EYE on it (haha) and if it gets better as the day progresses, it's off to the office for me. If not, I think I should stay far, far away from people as I hear it's highly contagious and I wouldn't want anyone I know to get this same gooey, itchy, red, yuckiness.

Oh, and I just wanted to let you in on a little weight-loss challenge that I am participating in. It all started with Julie over at Flip This Body. She's getting MARRIIIEDDD in September, and wants to look even more fabulous than she already does (although I'm not sure that's possible...she's such a cutie already!). So here's the "skinny" if anyone wants to sign up:

Basically it's a race to lose 15lbs. by her bridal shower on July 22nd. Just drop her a note and she'll add you to the roster, 'cuz she's nice like that. We're all in it to support not only our new bride-to-be, but also to motivate eachother as well. Even if you don't sign up, check out her blog anyway. It's chock to the rim full of great recipes, weight loss articles/tips and she's just a hoot to read. You'll love her, I promise.

~~Sorry for the lack of photos or links in this post. For some reason, Blogger is not letting me add them. I'll come back in later and see if I can edit.~~

I'm off to take care of my taxes. Myself. Wish me luck.

Pinch me, I must be dreaming!

2007-04-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

How awesome is this?

I can hardly contain my excitement! I'm such a HUGE fan!

D is for Desmond thrown out of a sleigh....

If it's too good to be true....

2007-03-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

maybe you really, really deserve it?

I have a really hard time when life seems to go my way. Why can I not get it through my head that I am worthy of the abundance that has been coming my way lately. I've honestly had one of the best weeks. Ever. Yet, I feel as though I am somehow undeserving. Don't get me wrong. I am truly grateful to the universe for showering me with so many wonderful gifts, but I cannot help but wonder "why me? why now?". So, instead of dwelling on my overanalization of the entire situation, I'll just let you all in on my fantastically wonderful last few days.

First, I was blessed with visits from both Julie from Flip This Body AND Joli Kiwi. 2 of my most recent blog crushes. Visited me. All the way out here in the sticks. I'm feeling so pretty and popular all of the sudden. Thank you both for your sweet comments. Please come back again soon. I promise I'll come out of hiding in your blogs soon.

I somehow managed to ditch my old gas-guzzling, bank account draining, lemon of a car and bought myself one of these...The 2007 Hundai Elantra. And yes, she is purple. "Purple Rain" as a matter of fact.

Whooohooooo! I cannot even begin to tell you how fabulous it feels not to have to worry about every little noise or bump in the road. I've only had her (yes, it's a she-car) for 24 hours and the sense of security is overwhelming. No longer will I be spending countless amounts of time or money, stressing over getting stranded and what it's going to cost me. AND....Niko and I can drive to the beach this summer! Pack your bags Kiana...you're coming too!

I also recently found out that I will be taking a long weekend in May to visit Austin, TX. It's been on my short list of places to visit for quite some time now, and while it's only a few days, I'm really looking forward to it. I'm going to spend a couple days attending a work-related class, as well as doing as much sight-seeing as possible. I can't wait! The change of scenery is going to do wonders for me. I'm also hoping to re-connect with 2 dear friends while I'm there. Very exciting indeed.

The scale was OVERLY kind to me when I stepped on it Monday morning, and has continued to be ever since. I'm down 8 pounds in 2 weeks! More than I ever could have hoped for! Gone is the puffy Dina and in it's place, a newly motivated, more energized and healthier version of myself.

And would you just check out that countdown on the sidebar?!?! My neice Kiana helped me make it. Now if I could just get it to move a little faster...I'm SO looking forward to our weekend getaway! Shopping, a slick hotel, yummy drinks with new found friends...heavenly!

I truly believe alot of my recent good fortune has to do with Miss Sadira and I making a point these past few weeks to call upon the laws of attraction. We've been making a concious effort to shoo away the self-doubt and general pessimism and replace it with a more positive outlook. Works for me!

What a weekend!

2007-03-25T21:57:00.000-07:00

I'm completly wiped out! What was suppose to be a relaxing, bath taking, manicure giving girlie weekend, sure turned into a whirlwind of activity around here. While most of the business happened around the house, I feel as if I need a weekend to recover from my weekend. I'm warning you...this is going to be wordy!

Friday night my neice Kiana and I went to the White Out at Tim's Toyota Center to see what was the 2nd to last regular season game for "Your AAaaaarrrizzzzzoooonnnnaaa SunDogggggsss!". What fun! Everyone was really in the White Out spirit and those who weren't so "in-the-know" could throw on one of the white t-shirts that were draped over every single seat in the building. The game was an edge of your seat thriller, with the Sundogs coming away with the 8-4 win. And while the show on the ice was great, the show up in the officials box was pretty swell too. Of course that might have something to do with the yummy eye candy that works up there, who doesn't even know I exist. Well, maybe. Barely. Must think positive...our team won, AND Kiana and I also won free In-N-Out Burger for cheering the loudest! Go us!

Saturday was spent sleeping in a bit, snacking on bagels with cream cheese and Miss Sadira, Pink Tink and I all painting our nails while sipping coffee and gossiping. My poor little boy was outnumbered and chose, instead, to make booty jokes and play video games. I suppose the estrogen overdose was a tad too much for him. Before we all knew it the entire day had flown by in a flash! It seemed that all of the sudden it was time to get all prettied up for yet another..you guessed it...hockey game!

Miss Sadira and I managed to get out of the house in time to make a quick stop at In-N-Out to redeem the coupons that K and I won previously. In an effort to stay on track with the weight loss, I opted for my burger "protein style". Honestly, I didn't really miss the bun, but what a complete mess! How they expect a girl to eat that monstrocity with any grace at all is beyond me. I was starving, so I managed, but believe you me, I don't think I'll be doing that again anytime soon.

I can honestly say the game itself was probably one of the greatest I've ever been to. And that saying alot. I've been to many a hockey game in my long 35 (gasp!) years. The score ended up the same as Friday night, 8-4, but the journey to that score was insane. If you know hockey at all and want to read the box score, I think you'll be amazed. It was a complete bloodbath, which, in my opinion always livens thing up a bit. :) My friend Liz actually chose THIS game to introduce her son Sawyer to hockey! Poor kid really got quite the first impression, I'm sure! Althrough from the looks of things at our end of the ice, he was having a blast...cheering and jumping up and down with the rest of us. And lucky girls that we are, Sadie and I also had a bit of fun batting our eyelashes and the most gorgeous man seated in our row. Because, well, you know...we're sassy like that. My goodness, re-reading this post you'd think that I only went to the games for the beefcake! SOOO not true. Not entirely true anyway. The evening ended with Sadie and I chit chatting over yummy hot chocolate at our favorite late night hang-out, The Raven.

Sunday! Sunday! Sunday! which is usually Creative Sunday over at Foolsewoode, made it's way over to Chez Deenie for the afternoon. Miss Sadie and I have been meaning to do a bit of scrapbooking/collage in order to get some positive thought and energy out and on to paper, and this was the day to do it. Armed with our spare change and creative juices flowing we made a quick pit stop at the dollar store for some cardstock, then to Joanns for glitter and it was back to my house to get busy! And boy did we ever! With only a quick stop for lunch, I think we were chatting and cutting and pasting and glitterizing for over 8 hours! Miss K had stayed the night, so she also hopped in on the fun too. She did sneek away with Niko for a bit to go ride the Kamikazee at a local carnival, while Sadie and I stayed behind to munch on a yummy picnic dinner, but they weren't gone long. I'm so lucky to have such an amazingly smart, imaginative and completly sweetie-pie neice. It was so great to be able to spend the weekend with her, just being girlie. I wish she and her sister lived closer. Sigh.

Well, now, it's Sunday night. The big boy is asleep, K is on her way to dreamland as I type this and I'm not far behind her. It's another killer day at work tomorrow, as well as weigh-in day for me, so I am definitely needing my beauty rest. Wish me luck as I step on that scale. I think I did pretty well my first week back counting calories. I'm feeling a bit less puffy these last few days. I'm sure if I did lose, it's mostly water weight, but I'll take it! Whatever I gotta do to get into all those lovely spring confections I keep seeing in the store windows and catalogs.

Happy Monday.

It's all about me.

2007-03-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

Atleast, that's what I keep telling myself. I've been giving myself a little pep talk this morning in hopes of jump starting a flood of determination and will-power. You see, somewhere between Thanksgiving and the gazillion (but who's counting) bags of those damn Coconut/Candy Cane/Vanilla Cream (yes, I've made a hobby out of trying them all and I'm REALLY good at it!) Hershey Kisses, I've managed to take quite the tumble off the weight loss wagon. About 15 pounds or so have magically found their way back onto my fat ass and I'm just sick over it. Back in November, I was in the home stretch...about 12 pounds shy of my goal weight. And now I am here with 25-30 to lose once again. I refuse to let that number get any higher and am back in the game as of today.

Must. resist. the. Kisses.

And as if my lack of a well-fitting wardrobe wasn't enough, my son seemed to think it was appropriate this morning to tell me my "booty was bumpy" as I got dressed this morning. Thanks kid.

Miss Sadira and I are planning a little soiree down in the valley to do some shopping and meet up with the lovely Miss Velvet Brick over cocktails in the very near future. I'd love to be able to reward myself with something pretty to wear, so I'd better get this bumpy booty of mine in high gear. Currently, I'm drooling over this little Anthro number. Isn't she loverly?

Here we go lurky looo, here we go lurky lie....

2007-03-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay. I admit it. I have voyeristic tendencies. Mostly late at night, because I have wicked insomnia. There. I said it. Happy now?

So, before you go and get all huffy, atleast let me explain. I lurk. ALOT. In other peoples blogs. I'm constantly in awe of the creative, inspiring and just plain crazy people I have run across on the internet. Why do I not post you ask? Well honestly, I wish I knew the answer to that question. Sometimes I think I'm a tad bit shy, other times maybe that person has so many complimentary comments that mine would just seem lost in the sea of "oh, it's lovely", and "such a great talent you have"'s (gee, can you tell I overanalyze everything?).

In an effort to out myself, I thought I'd let you all in on my secret blog crushes. Shhhh...don't tell!

I have a strange obsession with joli kiwi. If you read French, head over and check him out. I cannot seem to get enough of his in your face writing style, not to mention, he has amazing taste and posts some drool-worthy photos. Check out the Le Pitch link to learn more. Not only is Joli Kiwi one of my faves, he's also helping me learn naughty French words. I owe him. Big time. And he has no idea. De toute la manière en Arizona... merci Joli Kiwi! Grands baisers!

I've also recently discovered Julie at Flip This Body. I'm not quite all caught up with her blog, but I'm getting there. I cannot begin to tell you how inspiring she has been, and she doesn't even know it. I've been battling my weight for what seems like forever and reading her blog is actually getting me excited about losing this last 20 pounds. Not to mention she is uber-adoreable, and has amazing bangs.

And no, I don't just like hockey because of the beefcake..I really do know the game inside and out. Seriously. But this site just might make every girl a fan. Hubba Hubba

So.... who are you stalking these days?

Teddy Bear Picnic

2007-03-13T08:57:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Niko and I had the pleasure of spending some time with our good friend Liz and her 2 adorable kiddos Sawyer and Alora. Earlier in the week Liz had found out about the Kiwanis Teddy Bear Picnic and invited us both to tag along. How could we refuse?!?! A fun day out with friends, yummy picnic lunch and games galore?!?! We were SO THERE!

Saturday morning arrived, we packed up the little peaches into her monster mom mobile and off we headed to Tempe. The drive down was pretty uneventful, but it gave Liz and I a chance to catch up on eachothers lives, which was really nice, since although we work together everyday, there isn't much "girlfriend" time allowed at the office. The kids remained glued to the DVD player and watched Cars for the gazillionth time...which was perfectly fine with them.

With only a slight detour, we found our way to the park, received our wristbands and were off in search of the perfect picnic spot. Lucky for us, there was a great table directly in front of Flootsie the clown who was just getting ready to start Story Time. We all ate our picnic lunch and listened in as Flootsie told us the story of the Teddy Bear Picnic as well as a couple of others that seem to have slipped my mind.

Niko was feeling a bit overwhelmed and decided to attach himself to my hip, while Sawyer, Alora and Liz went off to play.He also decided he wasn't going to join in the fun and just wanted to ride around on a Big Wheel in a closed off play area, so we spent most of the day in that section of the park, with me trying to bribe him to participate in some of the other festive activites. I think he had a good time, but I'm still not 100% sure.

One of the highlights of the day had to be the giant wave pool! Even I, in my capri pants, couldn't resist and had wade around a bit. Niko was hesitatnt...yet again, and didn't want to change into his swimsuit, but still splashed around a bit. Sawyer and Alora? They were like little fish...Alora especially. I was so impressed with her swimming skills! It's really making me look forward to Niko's upcoming swimming lessons at out local YMCA. Believe it or not, I've never learned to swim. Not one single stroke. It's one of the few things I regret not learning when I was younger.

Too pooped to pop any longer, we loaded up and hit the road. All the while bribing the young 'uns to behave with the promise of a secret surprise. Good children or not, Liz and I were craving some serious Cold Stone, so of course, we stopped. YUM! The rest of the ride home was more or less like the ride down to the valley only in reverse.

Needless to say, Niko was exhausted by the time we got home, bathed and to bed. He slept until 10am on Saturday morning!

So Liz....when are we going to do it again?