Hartley

Grand Adventure

2011-07-31T19:02:00.000-07:00

Bill and I went tubing down the Boise River yesterday. In a moment of mild idiocy I fell out of my tube. This sounds simple enough just get back on the tube and go your merry way. Well I couldn't get back on the tube. Truthfully I nearly drown trying to keep hold of my tube and paddle. They were both new and I was not going to loose them. My body took quite a beating on the rocks while I fought against the current to save my darn tube and paddle. I was able to swim to a sandy shore using only my feet because my hands were occupied with the tube and the paddle. It was a scary ordeal I got caught under the tube it had a nylon cover so when it flipped over it sort of suctioned to the surface of the water with me underneath. The water was shallow so I attempted to stand a couple times, but the quickly moving current swept me off my feet and that was when I banged my knees up the most. After I got to the sandy shore I just stood there completely exhausted. I saved the tube, paddle, and my favorite pair of sunglasses. Lost the sunscreen, damn it. Luckily my husband came along and was able to coax me back on the tube so we could finish our float. I was about 10 minutes ahead of him, I paddle faster. I'm glad I got back on the proverbial horse and finished the race. I like floating the river, and my little adventure taught me to respect it's power. My knees hurt like the big H, but they will mend. I'd like to say think you to my husband, Bill, for teaching me to drink deeply from the cup of life. Also for holding my tube while I jump on.

AZ Part 2 (Vegas and Hoover Dam)

2011-01-09T19:53:00.000-08:00

So on the way home we went to Vegas. The boys had never been, and thanks to Priceline we got five star accomodations! It was so much fun to live like the other half for a day!

AZ Trip Part One

2011-01-09T18:58:00.000-08:00

For some reason these uploaded chronologically backwards. This is our hike in Moab, fun times with cousins, Grandma, uncles, aunts...all of our AZ family. A few days after we arrived the storm of the century hit. We got snowed in for a day, and grandma's pipes broke in the -17 degree weather. The boys got to go sledding though, and Bill got to spend some time freezing his pants off in the pump house with Jim. I was a good time had by all, and we already miss our AZ family terribly!

Baptism...a Few Thoughts.

2010-11-07T14:20:00.000-08:00

As some of you may know, but most of you are just finding out, Heath Hartley was baptized last night. Bill did the dunking, and Heath was successfully submerged and reborn spotless and pure. The program was short and sweet (which I appreciated), Heath got to go first (which I also appreciated), and cute little Heath was grinning all night from ear to ear. I forgot my camera, so there are no pictures documenting this right of passage for me to share. It's almost better that way though, I thnk there are some things that are better left as mental pictures. Spiritual expereinces are best left as mental pictures. It helps us remember how we felt, rather than getting distracted by the mild red eye and goofy expressions frozen foever in silver specs. I guess they probably don't use silver anymore, but you get the idea.

It ment a lot to Bill to be able to have that experieince to share with Heath, and I was proud of him and of Heath. Good choices open the doors to more good choices, and I know that Heath will continue growing into the fine young man I know he is destined to be.

Happy Halloween!!!

2010-10-31T15:56:00.001-07:00

Hayden the "Homie" and Heath the "Disco Man." I use quotations because that is what the boys came up with. They are very cute, and we love them to pieces.

Hayden And Gen Paint.

2010-10-31T15:50:00.000-07:00

Hayden and I painted together last weekend. It was fun, Hayden is a budding little artist, though I think his heart belongs to music.

My Attempt At Abstract

2010-10-27T18:59:00.000-07:00

This is my first abstract painting...it's not a Jackson Pollock(sp?), but not awful. The photo is awful though. I will get a better one in natural light when the sun decides to shine again.

The View From My Front Door

2010-10-27T18:57:00.000-07:00

It snowed in the foothills!

A Little Festive

2010-09-26T17:45:00.000-07:00

We got our Halloween on this last weekend and carved some pumpkins. It was hard to go full throttle minus Heath (he had his tonsils out, poor little lamb). Notice how I didn't bother to remove the spider webs on my front porch? That was on purpose (not).

Halloween Inspiration

2010-09-26T17:40:00.000-07:00

I am way excited for Halloween this year. If only I had an unlimited budget and a deserted old mansion to play with!

The Object Of My Desire

2010-09-22T16:23:00.001-07:00

Dearest I Pad,

I shouldn't want you, but I do. Your completely unnecessary and slightly expensive. You advocate hours of wasted time and a total loss of focus. All my logic screams out in protest, but the inner passionate me will not be ignored. I want you, body and soul, I want to touch your screen, and discover you inside and out. I find myself wondering what you would look like in a pink case. I imagine myself taking you shopping for apps, stocking your shelves with my ever growing book list, we would have such a happy little life. I will be patient because I know its only a matter of time before we can be together. I just want you to know its fate, destiny has already decided we will be one.

Until Bill Can Afford You
Yours In Spirit,

Genny

My Entry Way

2010-09-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

I like this for my entry way. I have a bunch of old fashion keys I got from Pottery Barn, now I just need to find a bunch of gold frames. We need to get our family pictures taken too, we don't have any of Bill and I with the boys.

Everythings Amazing & Nobodys Happy

2010-09-17T16:52:00.000-07:00

This is so true...

Jane Austen's Fight Club

2010-09-17T16:44:00.000-07:00

I don't know why this is so funny to me, I'm really not a violent person.

Pumpkins

2010-09-17T16:26:00.000-07:00

I love, love, love decorating pumpkins! Here are some cute ideas I found, my favorite is the owl...incidentally did you know owls are a bad omen in the Navajo religion? I prefer to think of them as wise old birds with insomnia. Enjoy!

Welcome Fall

2010-09-17T16:20:00.000-07:00

I know it's a wee bit early, but I am excited for fall! Here are some of my favorite things about autumn...

Our Beautiful Backyard

2010-07-04T11:06:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that we planted all this from just seeds. The poppies have really taken over, you can barely even see the blackberry or raspberry plants. Bill has done an amazing job with the yard in our new house. I love being outside in the back yard, its our own little garden of Eden.

Darcy The Hot Dog...Ha Ha Ha

2010-06-29T16:09:00.000-07:00

Our Flowers Are Blooming!

2010-06-29T16:05:00.000-07:00

All the seeds we planted have turned into beautiful, flowering plants. I will take pictures soon.

Blog Surfing

2010-06-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

I found this while blog surfing today. It seems like a good idea. I'll have to see if Bill will let me quit my job, then we could abandon our house, buy plane tickets with our 401k money, and work our way through Europe. We could work in hostels for food and lodging money. I don't know what we would do with the dog, and I think we would probably miss the boys too much...oh well maybe later in life we can visit this idea again.

This Picture Makes me feel Whistful

2010-06-29T15:56:00.001-07:00

Darcy

2010-06-15T18:17:00.001-07:00

My mom bought her this dress. The bows lasted a whole 5 minutes, but it was so stinken cute I almost vomited.

2010-06-01T22:48:00.000-07:00

2010-06-01T22:40:00.000-07:00

Little League

2010-05-11T15:13:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Heath. He is so cute in his little baseball uniform. This one is him goofing off with his teammates before he goes up to bat.

These next two are my favorite. These are Heath playing right field just after he picked his nose.

Geeze I wonder where he learned to do that.

The Wind

2010-05-11T14:54:00.000-07:00

This is what I feel like whenever I am outside now days. Stupid wind.

Green and Blue

2010-05-11T14:36:00.000-07:00

All my life I have wanted a yellow kitchen with little red accents and a black and white checkered tile floor. Like yellow walls and red pots, maybe the occasional red bowl of yellow lemons, a red clock with yellow numbers...you get the idea. Well now I find that my fancies have shifted! Ladies and gentlemen (of the five plus loyal readers that I have) I now desire a green kitchen with blue accents. Lemons still hold a special little place in my heart, but I think limes are what I desire now. That is all.

We Are Expecting!

2010-04-17T11:54:00.000-07:00

A new puppy! Ha ha sorry mom. She was born about a week ago and we will be able to pick her up in six weeks.

Early Happy Anniversary to Me!

2010-03-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

So, it's Bill and I's anniversary on April 5th. I got to pick up my present today from the jeweler.

I am so excited! I feel like a queen, or a princess, or I don't know what, but I feel very posh. Bill brought this Alexandrite back from Brazil with him. He gave it to his mom, and a few weeks ago she gave it back to Bill. Bill had it set at The Jeweler's Bench for me for our anniversary (insert awwwe here). I really, really love it. I am so thankful for a wonderful husband and amazingly sweet in-laws.

Only The Strong

2010-03-20T22:14:00.000-07:00

This is funny.

A Tribute to Michael

2010-02-26T15:45:00.000-08:00

Flesh Eating Plant

2010-02-26T15:35:00.000-08:00

This post is in response to Adam's comment about men not loving plants unless they are married or flesh eating. This is Bill's flesh eating plant. He loves it, and feeds it, and nurtures it just like a child. Every time it grows a new pod Bill gets really excited. He can't wait until spring when he can lure some innocent flies indoors. Bill and I both laughed at Adam's comment because it is so true. We love ya cuz.

Spring Is Coming!

2010-02-16T20:48:00.000-08:00

I love, love, love lilacs! I am so excited because we have a nice big back yard that is 100% ours and we can plant whatever we want this year. I am going to plant lilac bushes all along my back fence. May will be heaven on earth when they all bloom at once in a glorious crescendo of an awesome blossom symphony...or at least that is how it will happen in my head. In real life I will just be happy not to kill them all the first year. We have a retaining wall in the back with about a five foot slope all along the back wall, we are going to plant a hill side garden up there. It will probably look like this...

just in case you wondering. Mom and Dad Hartley gave us some strawberry plants that will produce fruit year round until next winter. So I am pretty excited about those as well. Yep, in my head I will be growing strawberries as big as your fist and lounging in an ever blossoming garden of perfection, but really I will just be happy if everything lives.

P.S. If Jake chooses Vienna on the Bachelor I am swearing off that smutty show for good! That is all.

The Card Delema

2010-02-13T20:27:00.000-08:00

As most of you are aware its Valentines Day tomorrow. The budget has a been a little tight lately so I did not get my beloved anything grand...I figure my love and kisses are all he wants anyways. But still some small token is always in order, something tangible to commemorate the unspoken bond that binds us up in holy matrimony. A card is always nice too, but how do I select a card that says all the things I feel inside? I looked and looked, nothing felt right...

this one is too slutty, but I did think up the rest of her poem for her. Roses are red, violets are blue, I'm a fur wearing fox killer, with a naughty tattoo.

This one is just wrong, on all levels

This one says I want to spend Valentines Day alone in a creepy garden with a diaper donned, arrow yielding baby statue

and this one just does not make any sense

you see my dilemma. I was just a wee bit frustrated, so I have decided to make my own. It will be amazing, and heart felt, and will say the simple truth. I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU BILL HARTLEY. The End.

P.S. I dislike those pasty, milky, message sweethearts. Also I have not yet had a valentines day sugar cookie, and I feel deprived. My favorite is the white frosting with red hot hearts. That is all.

The Wonders Of Photoshop

2010-01-31T18:38:00.000-08:00

No, I did not airbrush these two beautiful people. They really are that amazing in real life, but I did take out some distracting branches and got rid of some of the blue hue that was a little dominating. I think it is an amazing picture. I didn't take the picture either, I stole it off Adam's Facebook account. I was bored one night and decided to play around with Photoshop. So there you go a perfectly lovely picture of Adam and Laurie Jane. Your Welcome world.

What Do You See?

2010-01-31T18:31:00.001-08:00

Supposedly this is all the rage in stroller technology...now am I crazy, or does this just look like a mini casket on wheels? I don't know maybe its just me, but I don't think I'd want to put my child in that. Just a thought.

Bethany Jane, Remember This?

2010-01-24T18:44:00.000-08:00

Road Trip

2010-01-24T17:43:00.000-08:00

So my dad died on January 2nd. We took 5 days and drove down to the funeral. The pictures below are of that trip and also a few of the boys since we have been back. My dad was an amazing artist, some of his paintings are pictured below, just the ones my aunt, Lisa, had. I cried a lot on the trip and so that is why my face is puffy and my eye makeup is gone. It was a really good service, I think its just what dad would have wanted. I was glad to see my family, and to have my siblings around me. I have incredible brothers and sisters. I am so proud of each one of them. Loosing a parent is a hard thing to go through. It takes my breath away sometimes. I am thankful for the memories I have, for the time I was given, and for what he left behind in me. And that's all I have to say about that.

We stopped in St George on the way home and saw Jacob, Julisa, Jasmine, and Leonard Jr. The brightly colored abstract paintings are ones that Jacob and Julisa did. Bill's mom and dad rode down with us, it was a good trip, I am glad we were able to do it.

On a happier note, we are finally in our new house! We love it!

What We Have Been Up To

2010-01-24T17:39:00.000-08:00

R.I.P Mon Pere

2010-01-04T21:36:00.000-08:00

quand la connaissance fleurit dans moi comme une rose remplissant mon sein avec les épines.

When the knowledge blooms in me like a rose filling my bosom with thorns.

This poem always reminded me of my dad. Even the most beautiful creation has a sting. Dad loved beauty in all forms, but knew all to well the ugliness of sorrow. He taught me to see. My loss is heaven's gain, through Christ death has no sting. The journey continues. Au revoir Papa

AZ Pictures

2009-12-28T19:56:00.000-08:00

Shooting, A Holiday Tradition

2009-12-28T18:45:00.000-08:00

So as most of you Idahoans probably know 22 ammo is hard to come by ever since Obama took office. The same is true in Arizona, we could not find any 22 shells anywhere, till finally we went to Hunter's Paradise in Snowflake AZ and finally found some. (Phew,wipe brow dramatically) We almost had to call off our one year old tradition of the Christmas Eve Shoot. Per the story Laurie Jane told at Christmas I am thinking of just calling this tradition Tabernash...we'll see if it sticks.

Bill's Christmas gift to himself.

Grandma's House

2009-12-28T18:18:00.000-08:00

This last visit to Arizona was a nostalgic roller coaster of emotion. Grandma has her house up for sale. Its just to big for her to keep up with. I wish I had enough money to buy it as a summer home just to keep it in the family. Bill shot this video as it could be the last visit we get there.

This is the Blue Room, AKA Terrie and Cindy's room, AKA upstairs guest room.

This is my Grandma's room.

This is the living room.

The Secret Of The Elves

2009-12-19T13:36:00.001-08:00

When I was little my parents told me the secret of the elves. Its a family secret passed down through the generations. I remember very clearly I was old enough to talk and understand how to keep a secret. Mom and Dad took me into their bedroom and I was told the secret of the elves in all its complexity and then sworn to secrecy on pain of no presents from Santa on Christmas morning. For a few years I was the only sibling privy to know the secret, but as the others came of age they too were trusted with this ancient knowledge.
I remember going to school and seeing all the children who did not know the secret. I felt sorry for them, but knew as bearer of the secret it was my sacred duty to protect it and so I never told any of them. For many years we kept the secret safe and enjoyed the fruits of our labors each Christmas morning. I post the existence of the secret on this public blog only because I believe to know the secret will change the world. In fact I will reveal it shortly. Read on only if you are willing to accept the responsibility that comes with a greater knowledge. (pause for dramatic music)
The secret of the elves is this; Santa does not have the time to watch each and every child all year long. This is why he has elves. There are millions of elves, and each child has an elf assigned to watch them all year long. I know this is true because I have seen mine several times. I have seen my sibling's elves too. When you do good deeds they leave little treats in your shoes just to remind you that they are watching. They are always there to see everything you do, and so you have to be vigilant all year.
When I was nine years old I was looking in my parents closet for Halloween candy and I found something that shook my foundation to the core. I found my elf, she was a felt puppet enlivened only by my parent's hands. I found Andrew, Becca, and Jamie's elf too. Sadly, Susie never got an elf. When I found my elf I went and told my siblings and so died the secret of the elves. As the oldest I really do feel bad about killing the secret before Susie got to believe.
There may not be elves watching, but it is true that our every action is recorded. If no where else in our own minds. And I am thankful my parents took the time to teach us to be good people. As a grown up I think the secret is alive and well. Do unto others as you would have done unto you, we are our brothers keepers, and if we watch out for each other there will be peace on earth good will to man. Knowing the secret made me want to always do good as a child. It is my single most favorite Christmas memory. That is all.

Bow or No Bow

2009-12-16T22:51:00.000-08:00

So...I fully realize this may be the dumbest Christmas gift ever, but this idea sprang from my brain and just had to be realized. This is for one of my co-workers, we did a Secret Santa gift exchange at work and this is the big finale gift. I can't decide if it looks better with a bow, or without the bow. Keep in mind I am going to use black and silver ribbon to hang it. I still have to purchase said black and silver ribbon if I can just find a store that has something similar to what I have in my head. I might have been a little rhinestone happy, I can't help it I have a weakness for shiny things. I'm like a raccoon or a crow... both animals feed off garbage...I just realized that. I might have just had a psychological break through. I will keep you posted.

Things Remembered

2009-12-14T22:58:00.000-08:00

My mom used to sew bells to the bottom of my dresses when I was a little girl. I felt so cool. Truthfully I have been tempted to sew bells to the bottom of my dresses as an adult, but was stopped by the memories I have of my own mother doing horribly childish things and how embarrassed I was. Really, I love that my mom is crazy and innocent and always doing something completely non adult. I am sure that is why she sewed bells to my dresses. I had a Christmas dress that was red and had a huge skirt that went straight out when I twirled. I remember being so confident and just knowing how cute I was in my jingle dress. Thanks mom for always helping me be a kid.

12 More Days To Christmas...

2009-12-13T23:21:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite Christmas memories is my dad wearing this ugly yellow and black sweater at the Ward Christmas party. He was reading a story about a rich guy that had a nice car and took this little boy for a ride in it, and then gave a ride to the little boy's dying brother who loved cars. My dad is a good story teller. We always begged him to tell us a story before bed. Man that sweater was so ugly. I wish I had a picture for you.

For The Record

2009-12-13T23:00:00.001-08:00

For the record let me just say this; I think birds are creepy. I dislike very much how prevalent they seem to be in Christmas decorations and cards and even in the Twelve Days of Christmas song. Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds was hands down the scariest movie I have ever seen, and that is saying something. I don't know if you all had a chance to see last week's episode of The Office, but I felt very validated after Erin's unfortunate incident with the turtle doves. My point is I guess why the heck are birds on any Christmas card? The cartoon ones are not so bad I guess, but just ask yourself this; would you want to look a bird in the eye? Can you even look a bird in the eye? Birds are mysterious beings. They don't fry on the electric wire, they don't freeze even when sitting in near frozen water, they regurgitate in their offspring's open mouths, they can't walk without bobbing their heads. I mean really they are psychologically imbalanced animals, I think capable of almost anything. Lets just say I don't think the bird flue was just a fluke. That's creepy, and that's all I have to say about that.

Perspective

2009-12-06T22:34:00.000-08:00

First of all, I cannot believe there are only three more weeks till Christmas. I have gifts that I should have sent off last week and still have not yet finished making. Work has been so crazy, something about the Holidays makes people unreasonable and cranky. I haven't really had a chance to soak in the Christmas spirit. This is going to sound so cliche, but I was caught up in the commercial side of Christmas and I was just irritated, rather than peaceful and happy. This is the season of peace on earth goodwill to man. I should be whistling jingle bells, doing random acts of kindness, and thanking God everyday for my incredibly blessed life.

Today at church this little girl with brown pigtails and pretty blue eyes was fascinated by the big buttons on my coat. She liked them so much she simply would not let go of them, so her mom just handed her to me; and I held her all through Sunday School. She was adorable, probably about 18 months old, in a red dress with white tights and pink tulle underneath. She just played with my buttons and Bill's watch until she sighed and laid back in my arms sweet as she could be. It was then that I realized she was wearing a heart monitor, and there were shaved spots under her pig tails with healing incisions. My heart just broke into a million pieces, such a sweet little precious girl, so young with serious health problems. My only thought was how can I possibly have anything to complain about looking down at this angel baby? I don't have anything to complain about. In that moment all my holiday cynicism melted away and the words to What Child Is This started playing in my head. And guess what...I got my Christmas on! So Jingle Bells, Batman Man smells, a very Merry Christmas to you!

Hayden and Heath's Room

2009-11-30T08:10:00.000-08:00

Master Bedroom

2009-11-30T08:06:00.000-08:00

Breakfast Bar

2009-11-30T08:02:00.000-08:00

Roof On

2009-11-30T07:57:00.000-08:00

Pictures

2009-11-29T16:14:00.000-08:00

Trendy and Fun

2009-11-21T14:48:00.000-08:00

So, this is my new do! I like it a mucho mas grande. I can hide mysteriously behind my swept bangs. I feel so young and literary. Hayden said I look 18 now. Oh he just changed his mind and said I look 20

This is my new rock do.

Saturday

2009-11-21T14:34:00.000-08:00

New House Footage

2009-11-21T14:08:00.000-08:00

A New Do

2009-11-21T00:12:00.001-08:00

Soooo...I got a coupon for 20$ off at Viziato Salon and Spa. And I am going there tomorrow morning to get my hair cut. I am so excited, I hear they massage your neck and head and dip your hands in paraffin wax while you get shampooed. I love getting my hair cut. I don't know what I am going to have her do, but I want it to be dramatic. I might just chop it all off again...I don't know. Sorry grandma, I know your an advocate for long hair, especially mine, but I feel the winds of change a blowin. I am going to say trendy and fun and see what happens. Wish me luck.

Heath's Creation

2009-11-15T06:43:00.000-08:00

Heath drew this on the white board on our fridge. Isn't it funny and cute, he cracks us up. Notice he labeled the drawings, he is learning how to spell. He is getting to be quite the little reader. Our favorite is still his sacrament family tornado creation.

Foundation Poured!! House on the Way!!

2009-11-11T09:25:00.000-08:00

Two Handsome Fellas

2009-11-10T22:32:00.000-08:00

Here are Hayden and Heath's school pictures. Aren't they cute, little heart breakers.

Its The little Things...

2009-11-08T20:51:00.000-08:00

I don't know why but I have been...oh what is the word...complacent maybe recently. Just kinda stuck in a rut, not really a rut. I dunno just kinda blah, if that makes sense. I know that I am so blessed, and I really do love my life, and realize that God has really blessed me with so many things. I guess I have just been on auto pilot. Always tired, wake up, get dressed, go to work, come home, make dinner, clean house, stay up to late again trying to be a full time house wife and full time career woman, finally go to sleep, repeat cycle. I guess its just been especially stressful trying to get our house sold. It has to look perfect in case someone wants to look at it last minute. Anyways that really isn't what I want to focus on. The thing is I lost sight of what is really important.

Bill was changing out the cartridge on our printer today. He brought up word to type something and do a test print to see if it went in right (its a laser printer). He typed, Bill loves Gen. I have PMS right now so it almost made me cry. It was such a simple thing. It brought my focus back where it needed to be. It was perfect.

P.S. The new cartridge works great!

Very Blessed

2009-11-04T21:55:00.000-08:00

So I follow this blog, Angela Henrie Designs (her blog link is under fun stuff to look at. The Domestic Goddess), and every month she gives away some of her fabulous jewelry. I think she is amazing. I am completely addicted to reading her blog. I have no idea who she is, I just found her blog randomly one day, but I love her. Anyways her necklace this month says Blessed. It got me thinking about how truly blessed I am. November is such a special month, its national gratitude and appreciation month. I just deemed it that...in case it wasn't official yet. Bill and I have had so many trials turn in to amazing blessings. This has been a year filled with so many ups and downs, its the ultimate in roller coaster living. It could so easily have been the worst year of my life with the husband getting laid off after 17 years in the semi-conductor industry, bill's surgery, dad almost dying, Bill's parents getting sick...just so many stressful events crammed into eleven short months. But as we approach the finish line I look back and realize how thankful I am for these events. Bill and I have never been stronger in our relationship, my dad's heart attack helped me forgive him for so many hurts I had been carrying around. With the bad economy everyone lost half their retirements; I am just thankful to have a husband that plans for those type of things. Life is good! I am blessed. Thanks God, family and friends; it's good to be alive.

Home Movies

2009-11-01T06:47:00.000-08:00

Here are some movies Bill shot this weekend. Hope your Halloween was amazing.

A Modest Home

2009-10-28T19:43:00.000-07:00

So we have some exciting news. Well number one I got a promotion at work! I am super excited. This means that I will be working out at the Meridian and Caldwell offices a lot more. Which leads me to the second part of our news, we are building a house. The new house is 5 miles from Meridian St Lukes. It will be awesome!
I have been looking at this neighborhood for a long time and watching the prices go down and down again. We walked through the model a few months ago and both really liked it, but the timing was wrong. Well after I found out about this promotion I called the construction office and there was one lot left, but you had to have pre approval for financing before you could sign the contract. So I filled out an application and waited a few days, and I got approved as a first time home buyer! So there was a lot of drama, there was another couple looking at the lot. In the end we got it and we got it for 5,000 less than advertised, and the price for our model went up 10,000 the very next day! It was awesome.
So I have been picking out carpet samples, and fixtures, the whole bit. I has been exhausting trying to get everything set. Now we are trying to get the mobile home sold, we have been cleaning it up and fixing all the little stuff. Its a lot of work.
I am really proud of this house. I think its perfect. I read an article the other day in a magazine at work. It talked about how now days families are so focused on getting these huge houses. There is a different room for everything, a dining room, a sewing room, the office, they family room, the living room, and a separate bedroom for each kid. It talked about how now days kids have to call their parents cell phones to talk to them when they are in the same house. It pointed out that in the 30's, 40's, and 50's the average family home was about 1,000 square feet. The whole family was forced to be together in the single family/living room. and forced to all dine touching elbows in the kitchen/dining area. The closeness helped keep the families close and tight knit. I'm not saying that big houses breed distant families. I am just saying I liked the article. Keep it simple, that's the secret of life. Stay classy people. I love ya.

Bill's List

2009-10-28T19:29:00.000-07:00

I thought this was interesting. Here are Bill's favorite words from this last conference.

Vicissitudes
Indigenous
Onerous
Supernal

Bill is a word guy, he is always explaining Latin roots to me.

The Creepiest Creeping Creepy

2009-10-25T14:25:00.000-07:00

So Bill went to go move the swamp cooler in preparation for selling our house, and found this little friend just hanging out on our shed. Its HUGE! The picture does not lie, this momma spider could fill your palm up. Id kill it but I am scared it might beat me in a fight. Sorry the picture isn't so good, I was afraid to get any closer, that's as far as the zoom lens could pull it in. So we decided to have mercy and keep it around for an authentic Halloween decoration.

Happy Birthday Heath

2009-10-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

Heath turns lucky seven on October 31. Yep, Heath was born on Hallows Eve. We love Halloween and we love Heath. he is a super special, amazing Kid. Happy Birthday!

Why Is It Sooooo Cold?

2009-10-10T23:00:00.001-07:00

It was 28 degrees this morning. I bought a new coat today. Its black and it has a secret bit of pink lining on the inside. It sort of makes me feel like I have on really sexy underwear. My first pair of big girl undies had lace on the butt. I remember being so sad no one knew how pretty my undies were. Now I am glad it is considered good manners to wear pants in public, but there is nothing wrong at all with a pink lining secret.

Happy Thoughts

2009-10-08T18:40:00.000-07:00

So when you tell people your dad is dying it really puts a damper on things. Insert awkward pause here. So I thought I would lighten things up a bit. Here are some things/thoughts that have made me happy/smile recently:

"Do you sometimes feel like you want to eat a fly?" Susy used to say this to me when she was little to make me laugh.

"Roses in the sun. Mayonnaise on a piece of bread." Susy made this up when she was little, she used to sing it all the time. It was hilarious.

Honey Crisp Apples, they are finally in season! I have been waiting all year, really I have.

"Hey guys lets be good citizens today and not say any bad words." Said by Heath, I don't know where he comes up with this stuff.

Tootsie Rolls, I don't think I have to explain.

Good Friends, I am truly blessed in this area.

Bill flexing in the mirror. He has been working out recently, my husband is super cute.

Puffs plus aloe tissues, thank you Puffs.

Jim and Pam got married. It was perfect.

Time to Reflect

2009-09-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

So basically my dad is dying. Obviously this has spurred a lot of reflection. I am not going to candy coat it by saying bullshit things like, he was a light to everyone and loved life, because he didn’t. For the last almost year he has been homeless, living in a tent down by Shones Dam on a little forgotten corner of land. He is bitter, and alone, divorced twice and has worn out his welcome with almost every family member. This breaks my heart to admit even to myself. He is quite literally dying from a broken heart; the cruel irony of this will probably haunt me for the rest of my life.

Could I have done more? Did I always treat him with the love and respect he deserved? Was I ever unfair in my judgments? Why didn’t I spend more time at my last visit? Why can’t I remember what we talked about last? Why did I spend such a long time resenting him for what he didn’t do instead of being grateful for what he did do? Is this the end? Is this real? Is it supposed to hurt this bad? Does he know I love him? Is love ever enough? What if he lives through this? What if he doesn’t? Does crying make you dehydrated? Will I have a heart attack from eating my weight in chocolate almonds? Is it better to get a chance to say goodbye or go quick and sudden? Do I really want to know the answers?

Yes, I have been thinking a lot. I do love him so very much. I do want him to live, but only if he wants to, because I know his life has not been easy. The last almost fifteen years have been especially rough for him. Mostly because he had heart disease and was suffering small heart attacks on a regular basis. No one knew this, not even him. I suppose this explains a lot. And lesson learned; if you don’t feel good just go to the dang doctor. I need this lesson more than anyone, thanks dad.

I did get a chance to say my goodbyes. He told Bill and I to look after each other, to love each other, and no matter what always work things out because being alone sucks. These words have played like a broken record running through my mind ever since he said them. Being alone does suck. Why did he have to be so alone? I know there are consequences for our actions and that is just part of life, but it just doesn’t seem right, or fair, or whatever. It is easy to love the loveable, but what about the bitter, miserable, fun-sucking complainers of our family tree? Do we stick them in a corner with a dunce cap for bringing us down? Is it right to distance ourselves because their lack of vivacity is depressing? Do we just suggest the overused Band-Aid of counseling and go about our merry ways? Aren’t we supposed to be our brother’s keepers?

I am not pointing any fingers, nor placing blame, or anything of the kind. I just don’t understand life sometimes. You can’t jump in to save someone from drowning without likely drowning yourself. You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink. You can try to save the world, but will be lucky to save yourself. We have to pull our own carts in this life; if we are lucky we can find a good partner to evenly share the yoke. I am thankful for Bill, and for my family, and for my wonderful friends. I know that my father is greatly loved; I know that he has suffered a great deal over the years and especially in the last 48 hours. I pray for relief, that God’s will be done, but also know the furnace of refinement is painful and necessary. May we all come through this stronger, forever bonded in love is my prayer. Amen

My Dad

2009-09-19T11:50:00.000-07:00

I don't really know how to write this post, only that I need to. Perhaps it will be therapeutic, or maybe I just need to do something. My dad had a heart attack last night, I am told he probably wont live through today. He is only 50 years old. He didn't seem sick, he didn't have health insurance so he didn't go to the doctor very much. I have not had a chance to say my goodbyes yet, though I did talk to the ICU nurse and am told I will most likely get to talk to him before the end. I don't exactly understand what happened, or why with medical science amazing as it is can not put James Donald Lofgreen back together again. All I know is my heart hurts, well aches in places I didn't know could ache. I usually deal with things privately, silently I just keep it all inside, but Bill suggested I write this.
I keep remembering things about him, things I had forgotten. I scanned these pictures in, and on the back of some of the older ones are dabs of dry ink. He used to use the back of photographs to mix ink colors when he did scrimshaw. He would wear this headset with magnifiers on it that would allow him to do the small detail work. He looked so funny, so concentrated on what he was doing. He used to take us bird watching, I knew what a blue herring and peregrine falcon were in kindergarten. He liked to read dictionaries and encyclopedias, I remember thinking he knew the answer to every question. I remember when I was little he was very funny, the ICU nurse told me he was a good man, and that he had been cracking jokes whenever he was conscious.
I know he isn't perfect, and sometimes death immortalizes us into unwarranted sainthood. He has many flaws. He liked to eat furry parts of bad cheese, and often let his apple juice sit in the sun a little too long. I don't know if he will die today, or tomorrow, or maybe he will find a way to keep fighting for months to come. I do know the human spirit is capable of defeating probability. I do know that I love him, and I know that during these last couple of months he has tried to strengthen his relationship with his savior. I also know that this ache I feel, this hole is good, because its a side effect of love. Over time I am sure the ache will dull until I find another picture with ink spots on the back.Well, that's all I have to say about that. I will keep you posted.

I LOVE HALLOWEEN

2009-09-09T16:03:00.000-07:00

I just realized today that I have less than two months to enjoy my Halloween decorations. I have not decorated my house yet, oh but I will! I know it is still hot out and we are still just flirting with Fall, but I am ready for the full commitment. Oh beautiful Fall with crisp air and crunchy leaves, pumpkins and witches, and such wonderfully scary things. Do you have the fever yet? Just give it a few minutes to sink in, you'll catch it.

Creative Moment

2009-08-24T18:59:00.001-07:00

Here are some wood signs that I made myself. I have been looking for that Laundry sign and could not find one reasonably priced...so I just had to make it myself. It was fun. This week is crazy busy, just know that I love you all and I will post more later.

Yard Sale

2009-08-16T15:52:00.000-07:00

This being summer it is, as you know, yard sale season. There have been quite a few in the last couple weeks here in our own little lakeside community. Well Hayden and Heath found one just down the street Saturday, and found several little treasures they simply just could not live with out. However, they did not have the money to purchase them. But they did not let this deter them.

After 30 minutes or so they came running in asking if they could have their own little yard sale to raise the money to buy said treasures. This was at about 4pm. I tried at first to dissuade them. Most serious yard salers come early, its a lot of work. What are you going to sale? They met my pessimism head on determined to have their own yard sale. So I gave my consent, knowing they would loose interest soon, and this would be a good learning experience ect ect.

I have to say it, I was wrong. They raised the money to get all the junk toys they wanted from the other yard sale, plus a brand new transformer from Wal-Mart. They made signs and plastered them around the neighborhood. Hayden taped one to his bike and rode up and down the street. Heath sat in front yelling, "Yard Sale!" They were amazing. They could have sold a ketchup Popsicle to a woman in white gloves. In less than an hour they made 11.54$. Look out America here comes H&H advertising.

Make Your Own Laundry Soap

2009-08-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

I have never tried this recipe, but several of the ladies I work with prefer it over store bought. We just got a 400 load box of detergent from Costco, so it will be a while before I can try this out. I have heard that is does not suds up, but supposedly it leaves whites whiter and depending on the kind of bar soap you use smells really good. One of my co-workers used Dove soap and it worked just fine.

Tips For Laundry Soap: You can use Fels-Naptha, Ivory, Sunlight, Kirk's Hardwater Castile or Zote bars. Don't use heavily perfumed soaps. Washing soda and Borax can normally be found on the laundry or cleaning aisle. Recipe cost approx, 2$.

Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap- Front or Top Load Machine- Best Value

4 Cups hot tap water
1 Fels-Naptha soap bar
1 Cup Washing Soda
1/2 Cup Borax
- Grate bar of soap and add to saucepan with water. Stir continually over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted.
- Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full of hot tap water. Add melted soap, washing soda, and Borax. Stir well until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with more hot water. Stir, cover and let sit overnight to thicken.
- Stir and fill a used , clean, laundry soap dispenser half full with soap and then fill rest of the way with water. Shake before each use (will gel).
- Optional: You can add 10-15 drops of essential oil per 2 gallons. Add once soap has cooled. Ideas: lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil.
- Yield: Liquid soap recipe makes 10 gallons.
- Top load machine- 5/8 Cup per load (approx, 180 loads)
- Front Load Machines- 1/4 Cup per load (approx, 640 loads)

Powdered Laundry Detergent- Top Load Machine

1 Fels-Naptha soap bar
1 Cup Washing Soda
1/2 Cup Borax

-Grate soap or break into pieces and process in a food processor until powdered. Mix all ingredients. For light load, use 1 Tablespoon. For heavily soiled load, use 2 Tablespoons. Yields: 3 Cups detergent. (approx, 40 loads)

Psssst, I Have a Secret

2009-07-30T17:41:00.000-07:00

Well, it's not really a secret, but let me tell you this it is soooooooo good! This is the best Key Lime Pie Recipe in the whole wide world. I swear, it will blow your mind. Someday When I open my little cafe called The Cow's Meow, I will serve this in the summer.

Ingredients:
1 9inch graham cracker crust.
3 cups sweetened condensed milk
3/4 cup key lime juice
1/2 cup sour cream
1T grated lime zest

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, and lime zest. Mix well and pour into crust.
Bake for 5-8 minutes. Until tiny pinhole bubbles burst on the surface of pie. Chill pie thoroughly before serving.

My Pool Babies

2009-07-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

Owen The Bird

2009-07-25T12:08:00.000-07:00

This post is about a week late, but better late than never. Last weekend Hayden and Heath were here. I was making breakfast in the kitchen when Heath comes running in shouting, "Gen you have to come and see this!" So of course I followed him out with great haste as one can only do when consumed with six year old excitement. Half way down the drive way Heath looks over his shoulder and with his cutest little scrunch-up-yuck face says, "at first I thought it was poop!"
I scanned the sidewalk for anything resembling a pile of waste and there it was, a dead little sparrow. At least I think it was a sparrow, lets just pretend it was. It was brownish and of the ordinary small bird variety. Hayden and Heath looked at me expectantly as if my being an adult comes with all the answers.
"I guess we will have to bury it," I said finally. "Just don't touch it. We don't want to catch bird flu, or get heaven knows what from heaven knows where."
Ten minutes later Bill and I attended the funeral for Owen the bird who now lies dead behind our shed. It was a well attended affair considering the short duration of Owen's life. There were dandelions and key lime pie was served afterward. I think Owen would have liked it that way. Needless to say we were all glad it was not poop.

My Current Obsession

2009-07-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

I want a steamer trunk, I want one badly. I want it for my living room to put all the blankets that are always left on the couch. I love them. That is all.

I Want To Run Away Here

2009-07-16T20:49:00.000-07:00

I found this on another of my favorite blogs, Absolutely Beautiful Things. It makes me want to be 8 years old again and have the summer off. I would climb that tree till I was simply exhausted, then I would take a nap on those luxurious pillows, and when I woke up I would read till it go too dark to see. I would do that now if it wasn't for blasted adult responsibility and bills.

Today I Love...

2009-07-16T20:43:00.001-07:00

I was blog hopping and found these paintings. I love them, I don't know the artist, but I would hang them on my walls. The link is posted under Fun Things To Look At, just click on Anahata.

Happy Thoughts

2009-06-30T17:47:00.000-07:00

Chocolate ice cream with ribbons of silky peanut butter, I spoon some out into the bowl and discover a solid vein of peanut butter that goes straight to the bottom of the carton!

I grumble and groan all the way to work for an early meeting. When I arrive I discover I am employee of the month, the position comes with a super star lapel pin and 10 whole bucks. Lorraine comes to my desk to take my picture for the wall and says, "say sex!" I laughed inside for an hour.

Make a Wish

2009-06-30T17:26:00.001-07:00

Bill is supposed to find out if he got the job with the state tomorrow. Everyone say a prayer, make a wish, close your eyes tight, walk backwards ten steps, cross your fingers, whatever works for you...just send happy thoughts and positive mojo this way please. I am 99.99% sure he will get it...maybe. Regardless of the outcome, he is definitely the best choice.

Birthday Flowers

2009-06-30T16:26:00.001-07:00

More than a week later and my birthday flowers are still magnificent! Thanks again mom and grandma. I love roses

Hard Times

2009-06-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wish there was a giant, multicolored, absorbent, and super sticky heal all band aid I could wrap up in like a blanket. They would come in packs of never ending, be invisibly thin and store quite sensibly under the bed till needed. It would instantly take away fears, tears, and restore one to a perfect state of well being and comfort, just like the hello kitty and superman band aids of childhood.

Go Phillys!!!

2009-06-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

I love Saturdays. Today we went and saw Heath play baseball. He is such a little athlete. I don't want to brag excessively, but he was pretty much the only kid on the team with an arm or the ability to actually hit the ball. And he was so cute in his uniform, look out girls this little guy is gonna be a heart breaker one day. I'm pretty sure his team, the Phillys, won. One is never sure with these type of things. The main point being to give them a sense of involvement and accomplishment and all. Is it terrible that I want my kid to kick some serious butt? Probably...oh well. Good Job Heath you looked awesome kiddo.

Take Me Out To The Ball Game

2009-06-06T20:25:00.001-07:00

Buy Me Some Peanuts And Cracker Jacks

2009-06-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

Blue Birds and Rainey Mornings and Such

2009-06-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

I think someday I would like to make a blue bird quilt...I'm not sure what that is exactly, but it sounds nice.

It rained all night long, this morning the clouds were still dark but there were bright rays sneaking through and it smelled like...like it rained all night long.

I saw a little girl with bright red curly hair and brilliant blue eyes. Her face was a chocolate mess, and I am pretty sure the sticky mess went clear down into her diaper. I wanted to hug her anyways.

One More Thing

2009-05-27T17:15:00.000-07:00

P.S. I added blended up strawberries and a fresh squeezed lemon to lemonade crystal light and it was amazing!

Monkey Bars

2009-05-27T17:01:00.001-07:00

These are so good. Bill's mom, who never makes a fuss about treats, could not put them down.

Ingredients:
1/2 c butter
1/2 c white sugar
1/2 c brown sugar
1/3 c peanut butter
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 c flour
1 c rolled oats
2 c chocolate chips
1 c powdered sugar
1/4 c peanut butter
3 1/2 T milk

Directions: Cream together butter and sugars. Blend in 1/3 c peanut butter, egg, vanilla, and baking soda. Add flour and oats. Mix Well.

Spread into 13 x 9 pan. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes. remove and sprinkle with chocolate chips. Return to oven and bake for eight more minutes.

Spread to smooth out chocolate chips. Cool. Mix icing and spread over bars.

To make icing: Mix together powdered sugar, 1/4 c peanut butter, and milk.

Refrigerate to cool before serving.

Memorial Day Memories

2009-05-27T16:27:00.000-07:00

Hello friends, its been a while. We have been a busy bunch. Bill is trying to survive summer school; and I am working, and learning a new calling, and trying to support him lovingly. It was nice to have a three day weekend. We had the boys for the weekend, and we really truly had a great time. The slide show includes some pictures from a few weeks ago when we went to lucky peak. Idaho in the summer is a fun place to be.

I was very domestic this weekend; I cooked, and I cleaned, and I got up early...ish. Saturday we picked the boys up, stopped and got the essential boy staples (burritos and mac and cheese). Then we came home and sat out in the perfect weather while future stunt man, Heath, and his dancing side kick, Hayden, created the ramp of death. Yes it is that little bump in the road they are riding bikes over in the slide show. Heath was crackin me up, he would peddle that bike as fast as he could, his little feet would be a blur as he zipped by yelling to himself, "please don't crash, please don't crash!" The whole time Hayden was roaming around the yard singing word for word lyrics with his Sansa stuck in his ears. I don't know how he can remember lyrics, he's like some kind of rhyming genius. I sing the wrong lyrics to songs I have heard a million times, half the time the ones I think I do know are wrong too.

Sunday was such a perfect lounge day. We went to church, we came home and took a nap. The boys watched Harry Potter while I cooked Monkey bars and pita bread (pictures and recipes to come). Then the boys resurrected the slip and slide, which watered our lawn quite nicely.

Monday we had a grand picnic in the park with Grandma and Grandpa Hartley after the obligatory trip to the cemetery. I shouldn't say that, I love cemeteries. I remember once when I was in the singles ward we drove out to Shumway Cemetery cause the graves are in mounds due to the shallow layer of rock it rests on. We were hoping it would be freakishly scary in the dark, it wasn't, but the mounds are cool. I digress... Yes the picnic was wonderful, sadly there are no pics cause I forgot the camera, but the memories in my head are amazing and colorful and I wish you could see them too. Well thats it in a nut shell. I have to go to mutual here shortly. Peace out people.

Pictures

2009-05-27T16:25:00.001-07:00

Things That Make Me Smile, Post #2

2009-05-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

I love rainbows. I propose we start a movement to take it away from the same gender love types. The rainbow and the word gay, I want them to be wholesome symbols that little girls can be proud of again.

We always buy too many bananas and they go bad, but right now there is lovely smelling banana bread baking in my oven and I can't wait to eat it. There are walnuts in there too, I'm salivating just thinking about it.

Bill had his first day of school today, the house is completely quiet, no TV, just the occasional rustle of a page turning. My husband is very studious.

Things That Make Me Smile

2009-04-18T20:19:00.000-07:00

I love reading the blog Three Beautiful Things it always makes me feel whimsical and light. So I have decided to post at least three things that make me smile at least three times a week. I would like to start a movement, an attitude of gratitude for all the everyday little things that make life beautiful.

1. The You Tube video of Susan Boyle on Britain's Got Talent made me cry the first time I saw it. I recommend viewing the full 7 minute version. She walks out on that stage and everyone judges her right off the bat, but then she starts to sing and your heart just melts. It is without any doubt the most beautiful thing I have heard or seen today.

2. I drive to WinCo with the windows down for the first time this year, the grass is green, and all the way down the street the cherry trees are in full bloom. It makes me think of Popcorn Popping On An Apricot Tree, small children, and little noses with streams of snot flowing into little pink lips.

3. The plates I have been coveting at Kholes are 65% off; I purchase them, bring them home, and hang them. They look amazing.

Why?

2009-04-16T21:13:00.001-07:00

This week has been so weird. Lets start with a brief history; Sunday night Bill and Gen go for a walk on the Greenbelt, the city of trees is in full bloom, and the cherry trees are blossoming, its truly breath taking. Sunday night Gen takes a shower and 20 minutes later her entire face swells up like a creepy star wars character. She freaks out mildly, as one would be expected when one's face looks like a joke in a circus fun mirror, and then takes an allergy pill and goes to bed.
Monday morning Gen wakes up, turns on the bathroom light, and discovers her left eye does not exist anymore, in its place is an oozing mass of puffy eye lid. Gen calls in sick to work, as she tries to be cool, but deep down she is truly vain and cares very much when her face is deformed. Gen goes to the doctor, or PA rather named Mike, who Bill liked, but Gen is still on the fence about. The diagnosis, allergies of unknown origin. The cure, very pricey eye drops that work like magic, 5 minutes after use Gen can see again!
Tuesday and Wednesday blend together, their individual events are not very noteworthy. Gen went to work, Bill did laundry cause he is a super good husband, but Gen folded it cause she is a super good wife.
Thursday would have gone on just like Tuesday and Wednesday, but for the last 10 minutes of Gen's work day. Gen was really looking forward to going home to her handsome husband and getting to see him briefly before he had to go back to work all night when right at 4:59:45 Gen gets a darn scheduling call. This is real people, never call your doctors office 15 seconds before they close, just never do it! Gen didn't get to leave till 5:15, but the crazy did not stop there. Gen gets in her car, the sun is glaring in her eyes, gen flips the sun visor down. The sun visor breaks! Yes, they break. It wont fold up and it wont fold back, it just hangs there obstructing the view, Gen folds it to the side, it just hangs there and she cant look to the side. Gen starts to freak out a little, but calms herself with the thought that its only temporary, just take it to the dealership and they will fix it, that's what warranties are for, right? NO! Warranty expired 10 miles ago!!!!!! But its ok, everything will be ok, Gen just needs to get home to See Bill before he goes to work. Gen tries to secure the visor, but what ever she does it just hangs there mocking her with the simplicity of its stupor. After a long, terribly taxing slapping war with a sun visor, Gen has to drive home using her head to brace the visor against the roof of the car...SO LAME! End of story Gen only gets 30 minutes with her husband before a long lonely night all alone. I will get you Sun Visor!

The Dutch Door

2009-03-27T21:36:00.000-07:00

The Dutch Door...am I the only one here that thinks this invention is amazing? I mean the top half of the door can open while the bottom half stays shut. Obviously this would not be the ideal front door, but when i grow up and invest in real estate I am going to have a back Dutch door. You could answer the door in your underwear. As long as you have a shirt on who would know? You could have conversations with Mr. Ed, and keep out small unwanted visitors such as dwarfs and very small Jehovah's witnesses. It's utter genius and I think we should all take a minute and thank the Dutch for this timeless contribution to mankind. That is all.

I Feel Like a Slimy, Snotty Slug...

2009-03-22T00:41:00.000-07:00

We are sick, but me especially. I can not tell you how many times I have wondered if it is possibly to really cough up pieces of ones lung. I got the soft kleenex with vicks and lotion in them, and now my nose is a lesser shade of red. Let it be known that I hate being sick. That is all.

Welcome To My Cottage

2009-02-27T18:47:00.000-08:00

Come in and have a bit of tea, and maybe a cookie (since I'm an American). I want to live here.