100 Things I have discovered or experienced over the last 30 years...


1. I want to stay in my twenties.
2. If I could, I would see my niece every day.
3. I have a terrible habit of speeding.
4. I think that people's teeth say a lot about them, and it usually is the first thing I notice.
5. I think that my parents are generous.
6. I am a chronic channel changer.
7. I think that sleeping in and naps are luxurious.
8. My nickname is "pumpkin noodle."
9. "You've Got Mail" makes me want to move to NY. One of my fave movies.
10. I love mushrooms.
11. I cheated on something my freshman year and still don't regret it. It wasn't academic.
12. I can't wear a necklace if I wear big dangly earrings...usually.
13. I am then halfway done with Christmas shopping.
14. If I could I wouldn't work and volunteer my time for different things instead.
15. I feel guilty if I don't recycle.
16. A guilty pleasure - Adam Corolla and Kathy Griffin's comedy.
17. One of my fave past times as a kid was dancing for whoever would watch, in tap shoes.
18. People who are flakes ---> my biggest pet peeve.
19. I hope to visit every US state before I die.
20. I love fried okra.
21. I hate washing my face before going to bed.
22. I think one of my ears is higher then the other.
23. I am NOT a gold kind of girl. Silver, please!
24. At 30 I still don't have any cavities!
25. I treat people that way I wish to be treated.
26. I have to check all the rooms in my house if my alarm wasn't on before I go to bed.
27. Gerber daisies are my fave flower.
28. I attach sentimental value to way too many things.
29. I condition my hair (almost) every Saturday.
30. Brownie Sundaes are my favorite dessert.
31. Scales on fish gross me out.
32. I wish I would have got my nose pierced sooner.
33. I like our president.
34. I tweeze my eyebrows on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
35. If I could I would live in Amish Country (but remain "English.")
36. I usually fall asleep with the TV on.
37. I wish for hardwood floors in my house.
38. I couldn't marry a democrat.
39. I use a safety pin to separate my eyelashes every morning.
40. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups are my favorite candy.
41. When I go to the eye doctor, I refuse to let them give me eye drops.
42. I would like a small tattoo eventually.
43. I love (most) animals.
44. I consider loyal friends one of the greatest blessings in life.
45. In undergrad I kissed up to teacher for good grades. It worked occasionally.
46. I am really scared of mice and snakes.
47. My favorite author (lately) is Beverly Lewis.
48. I think my eyes are too close together.
49. I want to see a moose in the wild before I die.
50. I don't eat pink meat. (Ham specifically)
51. I love being on boats, but won't get in the water if I can't see what's swimming around me.
52. I would like to write a book.
53. My favorite color is red.
54. My favorite saying is, "Nothing changes if nothing changes."
55. I am not a big fan of hot drinks (especially coffee and tea).
56. My favorite past time is traveling with loved ones.
57. I bought my car off of eBay.
58. I enjoy my church and learn a lot.
59. I wish I were a runner.
60. I don't like beans, or green beans.
61. Target it one of my favorite stores.
62. I still think it would be great to be a news anchor.
63. I don't own an iPod. I am so behind the times!
64. When I was little I would fake nightmares so I could sleep in my parents' room.
65. I was a HUGE nerd in the 5th grade.
66. The Fall is my favorite time of year.
67. I wish I was more brave and more of a rule breaker.
68. I have been dragging my feet about a hands-free device, but need to get one already.
69. I think that everyone should see a counselor regularly.
70. I am the only one under 50 who admits she likes Cracker Barrel.
71. My favorite state is PA.
72. I love, love, love to fly.
73. When I was in the 4th/5th grade I sang in a talent show. What was I thinking???
74. My favorite smell is orange blossoms.
75. I sometimes worry that I am too "vanilla."
76. I worry that cell phone radiation is taking away my memory.
77. I like my hair color.
78. I like facebook better then myspace.
79. If I could, I would totally get a housekeeper.
80. It is really, really, hard for me to drink after people.
81. I don't like the sound of knuckles popping and therefore won't pop my own.
82. My favorite place on the coast is Cambria.
83. My pledge name is huey.
84. I am a TERRIBLE skier.
85. My spiritual gifts are mercy, discernment, and giving.
86. I used to write notes to God and hide them in my room, then be sad when I discovered they were still there.
87. One time when I wore my hair in a bun in the second grade, a little boy asked me if i was a boy or a girl. I hardly wore buns ever again.
88. I love to laugh until I cry.
89. I think that my gall bladder is causing me trouble and needs to come out.
90. I like Long John Silvers, but refuse to eat the fish.
91. I am beginning to get gray hair.
92. I love a tidy house.
93. I hate cleaning my house more then anything.
94. I have a kitten named Jersey. He is crazy.
95. I wish I didn't have so many freckles.
96. I have become an avid reader in the last year or so.
97. Wicked is my favorite Broadway show.
98. I think that retail therapy does work, sometimes.
99. I am a sucker for cheesy (not skanky) reality TV.
100. My dad's tri tip is my favorite meal.

Yesterday I went to the dentist for the first time in, well, a while. I went religiously growing up and until I moved away to NJ. Once I moved I figured I would go see him when I came home on vacation. I obviously wasn't thinking - as visiting the dentist is the last thing I wanted to do on my vacations home. So, six months turned into a year and on and on. Then, yesterday, I sat in that dreaded chair for the first time in four years.

I decided not to go back to my former dentist for various reasons, none of which I should list publicly on this website. I needed to go, as I could tell my lower left back tooth (I'm sure that's the scientific name of it :-)) was hurting me, and I was super scared I had a cavity. This may seem like no big deal to you, but to me it was huge. I had never had a cavity before...and the fear of the unknown - how bad the shot in my mouth was going to hurt - had me terrified. I knew I needed to be a big girl and just deal with it, but I wanted to make sure I saw a dentist who was VERY gentle and wouldn't judge me for not going to the dentist for the last four years.

Two of my coworkers told me that they share the same dentist and love him. They spoke so highly of him I felt more comforted about the impending visit and made the call to see him. The only problem was that he was out of network. However, having worked with insurance before (when I worked with Dr. Page) I thought that it wouldn't be that big of a deal.

I must say that they were very right about this dentist. He is very modern and his methods are cutting edge. He had a computer screen at every chair and literally used a mini video camera - about the size of a pen - to show me my teeth on the screen so I could know what he was talking about. He took the time to get to know me and he genuinely cared about me and my teeth. The dental hygienists who were working there seemed super nice. He also reassured me that shots were no issue at all, he actually calls them "numbing," and that the only reason I am worried is because I have never experienced him doing it. His self confidence made me feel so much better and I was ready to sign on the dotted line as his patient.

When he did the examination he did find that I have a crack in the tooth that was bothering me. While I still do not have any cavities (my goal is to never get any) I do need to get a crown on that tooth. I was not so happy to hear about that, and the process involved, but was glad to know I was going to get it resolved. I was also not too happy to hear that I will probably need another crown soon as he noticed another "baby" crack, which will soon grow, in a tooth on the lower right side of my mouth.

Have any of you ever had this happen? And what am I in for?

As I was leaving I went to the front counter to pay for my visit, set my appointments for a cleaning and crown, and tie up other loose ends from the visit. The very nice receptionist made the appointments and then started punching away at her calculator. She then proceeded to tell me information that made me want to pound my forehead on the counter...multiple times...and then do it again. The crown, my share of it, will be $680. Because I chose to go out of network, my insurance will only cover 30%. Holy crap.

So now I have this dilemma. Do I stick with this incredible dentist and get the dreaded procedure done and pay for it out of pocket (well, that's what 70% feels to me), or go to another dentist, perhaps my old one, and pay less while maybe getting less that decent service...and shots that hurt??? I should note here that while crowns are super expensive, my out of network insurance will cover lots more of the other services offered at the new dentist. Knowing that I have a second crown coming up in the near future though, my problem only becomes that more confusing.

What would you do?

I just signed a petition opposing California utility giant PG&E's efforts to defeat the state marriage amendment on the Nov. 4 ballot. Californians who believe the definition of marriage is between one man and one woman are urged to take immediate action by signing this important petition. Please go here to sign: http://www.focuspetitions.com/165/petition.asp?PID=18020081&NID=1

In a little over two weeks I will be 30. (YIKES) I am hoping to do several things with this blog to commemorate this milestone over the next three Thursdays. The first is a letter to myself as an 18-year-old. It was great to write - I recommend you do it for yourself and discover how God has brought you to where you are this very moment.

Dear Ashley,

You are 18 and a college freshman. You think you are so old, and have it pretty much all figured out. You think you are going to be married and done with having kids by 30. You think you are on top of the world. You have so much hope, and tons of promise. Oh, being 18 is great for those things alone and you are going to love this year for many reasons.

Let me tell you though, dear girl, that you are young (YOUNG!) and inexperienced. This is not a bad thing. In fact, many say that youth is wasted on the young. Please, don't waste it. Take advantage of your time and your circumstances. You still have a sweet innocence about you. You have yet to discover real heartache and challenges.

I am writing to you as a soon to be 30-year-old. And, take a seat, because you are going to be floored when I tell you the rest. You aren't married. You don't have children. You are back in Kingsburg. You aren't doing what you majored in. You are not at all what you envisioned you will be.

And that's OK.

Ashley, the next twelve years of your life are going to be hard...and then really great. Your twenties will really suck until you are 24ish. The last half of your twenties are going to be awesome...rough at times...but altogether wonderful. You are going to become a whole different person. At times you are going to wonder if you are still the girl you were at 18 at heart. I am here, standing on the other end, to tell you yes - that and so much more because of the many experiences you are going to encounter. You are beautiful, smart, have a good heart, loyal, and worth it. You are SO WORTH IT. I repeat this because this is what you will ponder for a good many years.

As I write you I wonder if I should give you some advice on how to live the next twelve years of your life. Many of the struggles will teach you and shape you to be a better person for yourself and others. Some of the obstacles you have to endure will be the result of stupid (LAME!) mistakes. And many wonderful adventures and surprises will come your way...all of these which come by the will of God.

Which brings me to a major thing I want you to realize (and I know you think you are too good at times to listen at 18). Listen to your Christian mentors and friends. Heed their advice. Soak in their wisdom. God places them in your path for a reason. He chooses to speak through them. If you allow them, they will be a huge blessing in your life and help you tremendously so you can turn around and let God do the same through you for others.

Some other pointers (30 for 30) that you should know as you prepare for the next few years:

1) You will wonder if leaving Milligan is the right choice. It is. You will stay friends with the girls. Go to Fresno State. You are going to make some amazing friends there...
2) One of those Fresno State girls will become one of your best friends and end up living on the other side of the country with you (YES! You will be moving back East!)
3) You will date a boy fairly soon. End it when you know to end it. Don't let it drag on...and on...and on. Respect him and yourself when ending it.
4) It's OK to take that semester off from Fresno State when you wanted to. If you don't, you will fail that whole semester anyway.
5) Don't let Dr. Tucker treat you badly for being a Christian. Confront him in love, take it to the faculty.
6) Becoming an intern with YL is the right thing to do. Do it. That girl you see around, Tiffanie, become friends with her ASAP. She is awesome and will be a great ally during your first few years on staff.
7) When you sub to make some extra money, don't do jr. high or high school. Yeah, you are young and cool, but it still doesn't matter. They are punk kids to subs. Little ones, on the other hand, LOVE their subs. Don't give yourself that stress.
8) Don't let others make you feel guilty over job decisions, or having to re-talk over and over and process the hurt in your life from disappointment and lack of direction in several areas.
9) and...go to counseling!!!
10) Hang out with the ADX girls as much as you can. They are a gift.
11) It's OK to not know a plan. When you begin to feel like you don't know what to do with your life and feel like taking a job as a chiropractic assistant is crap, do it anyway. It is just a stepping stone to a surprise God has waiting for you. And the roommates you will have during that waiting period of a few years will be a blast over all and give you great times.
12) You go girl and take those trips. It will give you a taste of what God wants you to do.
13) When you move to NJ (I know, I bet you never thought you would go there of all places), take the time to learn the culture and work with it properly.
14) When you move to NJ, you will begin to date. It won't end up the way you planned. Be prepared and don't give away your heart. Date him though, those months will give you great memories.
15) Take advantage of the location you are in. This will be one of the best times of your life until now. God will also help develop a wonderful friendship with two girls - both from the West Coast!
16) Go to grad school. It will be hard and take what one particular prof tells you about yourself with a grain of salt. The rest of it will be great and include new and terrific friends. God will teach you a lot. You WILL graduate. Oh, and on that one incident at school, speak up and do the right thing. You'll know what I mean.
17) Be as relational as possible with the YLWJ kids entrusted to your care - and the committee.
18) Don't ever be satisfied with your walk with Jesus. Always desire Him first.
19) Know He loves you as you are, you will doubt that at times. Be ready to counter attack those thoughts.
20) Like that commercial says, brownies ARE your enemy. Don't let yourself gain that weight back.
21) Your family will be there for you in the best way they know how. Be that for them too.
22) When you come back to CA, don't get a foreign exchange student.
23) Be the cheer advisor, but put your foot down with the crazy parents from the very beginning.
24) Be an example...even when alone.
25) Do the right thing...always
26) Love Jesus and others as best you can, and then more. That way you will be pushing yourself to go further and out of your comfort zone.
27) You won't be married when you are 30. So don't spend your twenties worrying about it. Learn to be content with where God has you in the moment. And being single can be tons of fun.
28) Date those boys that you passed over because you were way too picky. But yeah, those boys you did pass over because they were weird, that's still OK.
29) Avoid debt.
30) That two drink limit rule? It's a good one. Keep it.

Love, Ashley

I'm here, I'm here! Sorry for the delay in posting! Let's see if I can catch you up...:-)

2!
Sullivan turned two on the 11th. It was a blessing to be with her on her first and second birthday - something I probably couldn't have done had I been on the East Coast during this time. It was fun celebrating with her. She is talking more and more. Here is a picture of us playing with her new kitchen set.

Cambria
I think that Cambria is my favorite spot on the coast. Jerelyn invited me to go over there last weekend. We stayed at her grandmother's house/cabin and her parents and sister joined us. The weather was beautiful. We spent time on the beach walking around and taking pictures, visiting, watching wild turkeys, shopping, etc. Her parents also treated us to dinner at a place I hope to go to again. Can't wait to go back! Sometimes I forget about Cambria and usually go to Pismo, but I think this beautiful spot on the CenCal coast is a tradition I want to stick with!

Work
I am training in adoptions and loving it!! While foster care is rewarding, at times, adoption is just a whole different ball game. I am really excited to call myself a foster care and adoption social worker - it makes me feel much more versatile! (hehehe) In the meantime I picked up five more foster kids on my case load. Unfortunately an emergency arose with that family and ever since I have been hopping!! I have been more busy here at work the past few days then I have the whole summer. While the situation that happened is sad - I do really enjoy being busy. It makes me feel productive. I have heard that things really pick up with school starting, so we'll see if my next few days continue to be busy. On the 28th I will have been in this job for a year. Crazy!

Par-tay
Hopefully by now each of you have received an evite to my 30th birthday party. If not, let me know and I will send it your way. I am really looking forward to getting the majority of my friends and family together. While I hope to (obviously) do it again (if) when I get married, I will always have this time to look back on in case that doesn't happen. I think a 30th birthday is as good excuse as any to enjoy time with loved ones, don't you??

Hopefully I will become better about blogging! I know I always say that and then it never happens...let's have faith it will stick this time!!:-)

I was tagged by Suzanne... so here we go!
Four jobs I’ve had:
1- Social Worker
2- Young Life Area Director
3- Chiropractic Assistant
4- Nanny
Four movies I’ve watched more than once:
1- You've Got Mail
2- Steel Magnolias
3- 13 going on 30
4- Sleepless in Seattle
Four places I’ve lived:
1- California
2- New Jersey
3- Utah
4- Tennessee
Four TV shows I watch:
1- Today Show
2- The Hills
3- Hopkins
4- Jon and Kate Plus 8
Four places I’ve been:
1- England
2- Sweden
3- Netherlands
4- Canada
Four people who email me regularly (regularly? how about more often then not):
1- Jerelyn (sometimes while at work)
2- GOP
3- Kristin (sometimes while at work)
4- Dad
Four of my favorite foods:
1- Italian
2- Mexican
3- BBQ trip tip
4- Brownie Sundae
Four places I would love to visit:
1- Ireland
2- England
3- Scotland
4- Nova Scotia
Four things I’m looking forward to in the coming year:
1- Meeting husband (hey, a girl can hope)
2- Where God will take me next (EC? and fun trips!)
3- Getting fit
4- Getting out of debt
Four blog friends I’m tagging (I'm tagging non ADX girls!):
1- Brooke P.
2- Courtney S.(although I think she might have done this recently)
3- Hannah S.
4 - Jana G.

A funny way to start off the work week...I know I have shared this with a couple of you...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nda_OSWeyn8

Thanks dooce.com for the laugh!

(Happy 2nd bday, today, Sullivan!)

OK, I think I made this facebook album available to everyone - so you don't have to be a member to see it (the cruise pics). Enjoy!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=46743&l=a4404&id=505007171

I am back at my second day of work after the cruise. Overall the trip was a success and very fun!! Our ship was named the Dawn Princess (Princess Cruise Lines). (It is amazing that something that large can float!) As I sit here writing about it I wonder where to start...hmmm...

Well, obviously, it is hard to get back into the swing of things after being pampered for 11 days! (Even if it is just popping a Lean Cuisine in the microwave, I still like someone else making food for me!:-)) I had never been on a cruise before so this was all new to me. I had my own room and it was larger then I expected. My parents were right down the hall with a balcony (so I spent a lot of time in their room) and my brother, SIL, and niece were on the floor below me. We spent time on the ship watching movies, walking on the track around the deck, whale watching, napping and/or sleeping in, relaxing on my parents' balcony, going to shows, eating (and eating and eating) at one of the many restaurant type places on board, playing Bingo (I know, laugh if you want), playing with my niece, shopping, etc. I'm sure that I am missing lots of stuff!

It was great always having the ship nearby when we were at Port. That made it super convenient for all of us, whether my niece needed a nap or some of us didn't want to walk around the town anymore and wanted to go relax in the room(s). The ports we went to were Victoria, B.C. and Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, Alaska. We also spent a few hours in Tracey Arm viewing icebergs and a glacier (very cool!). While traveling around we did also spend some days at sea. (One night was VERY bumpy!) We sailed in and out of San Francisco so we didn't have to fly anywhere to catch the cruise. The ports were all wonderful. The best part about Ketchikan was Creek Street. The best part about Juneau was walking around the town and taking a tram ride. The best part about Skagway was the White Pass Railroad (saw some incredible scenery). And Tracey Arm was unreal. (It makes you think about the Titanic!)

I have about 300 pics put together and managed to post 60 of my faves on my Facebook account. I am going to try to put them on here (and not in a way that they overtake my page)...so check back soon! There are lots of stories I could tell about things I saw and things I did - so ask me if interested! I should also mention that it was in the 50s the whole time and rained a couple of days. It was hard coming back to the heat after wearing layers and a jacket for over a week!

It was a wonderful time being with family and exploring new parts of the world. Next family vacay definitely needs to be Ireland. Better start saving, mom and dad (hehehe) and in the meantime thanks (mom and dad) for making this trip possible for us all - it was a great time and we will all never forget it!!!

I'm home! I hadn't planned on blogging tonight... I was so proud of myself when I climbed into bed at 9:45. As you can tell (it's 11:15 PST as I write this) I can't sleep! UGH! The four mile walk is going to REALLY kick my butt at 5:45 tomorrow morning now. Anyway, don't want to post much as I do want to write a decent blog about the cruise...but know that it was great. I still feel like I am on the ship as I sit here in this chair...crazy! I have some terrific pics to post as well. Looking forward to catching up with you all in person and by your blogs:-)! love to all...

One of the great things about this summer has been all the different friends I have been able to spend time with. It seems like it has been parties, showers, and get-togethers galore. Because I will be gone on the day of Deb's shower, Jer and I went out and spent time with her last night in Hanford. She is so CUTE! I can't wait to meet the girls, yes girlS(!), and the other new baby additions to the ADX family such as Mandy's new baby boy, Virginia's new baby boy, and Leanna's new baby boy, whom I still have yet to meet!

I leave for the cruise tomorrow morning and do not get back until August 5. I heard that internet is not free (and somewhat pricey) on the cruise so you probably won't be hearing from me via the blog-world until I am back in Kingsburg. I'm sure I will have lots of fun stories to tell you when I return!

I am stealing no, borrowing, this blog insert from a male Christian friend I know from the EC. I was blown away with what he wrote and it really inspired me about the very special role women/mothers can have in the lives of others. Apparently he was impacted by it as well. If only I can be half of what these ladies are... Thanks K for sharing!

"The Hottest Girls to have ever lived on Earth." (Hot because she belongs to God.)

--Elisabeth Elliot--

If you have never heard of her, check out the End of the Spear movie and documentary. Here is a fine women of God. She supported her husband and family in Ecuador while ministering to the Waodani tribe. When her husband was killed by the Waodani, she continued on the same mission with her friends and family. She denied all material wealth and (with her children) lived with the Waodani tribe while curing them of polio. She continued as a missionary there.

--Susanna Wesley--

Examine the way she brought up her children i.e. “ …although she never preached a sermon or published a book or founded a church, she is known as the Mother of Methodism. Why? Because two of her sons, John Wesley and Charles Wesley, as children consciously or unconsciously will, applied the example and teachings and circumstances of their home life.” (Pellowe) She had 10 children, all who learned Greek, Latin, and Hebrew before the age of 10. She met with each of her children twice a week for an hour to examine their spiritual lives. The Methodist revival was a result of one of the most perfect images of parenting available.

--Sarah Edwards--

The wife of Jonathon Edwards; together created one of the best examples of what Christian marriage should look like. He chose her because of her spiritual enthusiasm and "nun-like" love for God. She was a spiritual influence on Edwards his whole life.

--Susan Fitkin--

Early Nazarene who answered God's call to "preach full salvation to every creature." She worked as an evangelist with her husband for many years before receiving ordination. After the death of her husband, she began many foreign missions to Swaziland, Mexico, Barbados, Trinidad, Hawaii, Panama, Central America, Japan, China, Korea, and Argentina. She is now considered the mother of Nazarene missions.

Alena's Party
My friend (from high school) Alena turned 30 and had a dinner party at Sal's in Fresno. I didn't know that they had a patio area (which made for a great and cozy location) and we had a very nice time celebrating with her. Janell came as well and we took a couple of cute pictures.

Here we are in high school...I guess we are friends for life!! :-)

Jerelyn's Party
Jerelyn turned 31 last week and last night we had a birthday dinner for her at BJ's in Fresno. It was fun and I hope she had a blast. She got a free pizzookie so that alone is worth turning 31. Here are some pics...

My Party
My 30th birthday is right around the corner. Because I am feeling depressed about it already (seriously, already cried about it a couple of times) I thought the best thing to do would be face it with all my loved ones. If I have to face 30 I want to face it with as many family and friends as possible. Therefore - please save the date of Sept. 6. I am planning on having a lunch party at the Golf Course in Kingsburg. Invitations to follow... Also, if you have any suggestions on how to feel better about turning 30 please pass them along!!
Deborah's Party
My friend Deborah (ADX sister) is having twin baby girls and Jer and I made the cutest gift for her (Jen and Kristin helped contribute too). It is a "diaper cake." Jer had the idea and it is something I will definitely make and give again. We were so proud of ourselves about being creative!! Two other sisters are also expecting and we are in the works of gifts for them too!:-)

Ikea
A couple of weeks ago Jerelyn and I went to the Bay Area for the day. We went to Ikea and visited Jerelyn's friend, Brad, in Alameda. Jerelyn said my thoughts (exactly!) aloud when she said, "I love me-a some Ikea!" (Or something along those lines.:-)) I got some great stuff and want to go back when they get their holiday/seasonal merchandise in. The weather was great and walking by the water made our time even better.

Cruise...oh yeah!
I leave for my family's 11-day-cruise to B.C. and Alaska on Saturday. I cannot wait! I have a lot to get done this week in preparation and I am trying not to stress out. I have been cleaning my house in sections so Julie won't be staying in filth. (Yes, I did find a house sitter. Thanks, Julie!!) I also need to wash clothes and pack. I need to go buy cat food and a new collar with tag (who knows where he left his other one - came home w/o it) so Jersey will be taken care of. I have to go grocery shopping for Julie. I have to make sure all my work is done and my office is clean and organized for the social worker covering for me. I know that I will sigh a big sigh of relief on Saturday morning when I am headed towards a week-and-a-half of relaxation and adventure. I have never been on a cruise before!!
Shots = done!
I finished my 10 weeks of shots (3 shots a week) at the clinic for weight loss. I am now on my own. I am so glad to be done. While I probably would have done a new cycle had I had the money, my arms are so glad not to be poked anymore (I had constant bruises). So far I have lost close to 30 pounds and I am hoping to not gain any on the cruise (will be watching most of what I eat and still planning on walking a bunch each day) and get back to dropping pounds when I get back.
Work
Last Monday I get a call at 10:30 PM telling me that a foster kid had run away. This kid was also on probation. Long story short I had to go meet with a sheriff at 12:30 AM in Traver to make a report (was told it had to be done in person) and spent the rest of the night on the phone with different people and awaiting any word. To this day he has not been found. We do now know that the person he took off with was probably his girlfriend. There is now a warrant out for his arrest. That kid was just offered a job (full-time with benefits) at a local school as a janitor and was almost done with probation. He also had recently become a Believer and was one of the most easy going kids I had met. I would have never thought he would make such a poor decision. Please pray that D will come to his senses and make good decisions and turn himself in.

Ummm...

OK, for those of you who are semi-regular readers of my blog you probably know that I am a Conservative when it comes to politics. Does that mean I agree with everything from the Right? No. Do I agree with everything from the Religious Right - even if I am a Republican who also is a Christian? No. (I would even say I vote based on my convictions rather then my party). While I do know that I will be voting for the Republican choice in this election - does it mean I think Senator McCain is a great fit for the presidency? Not necessarily. I will be the first to admit that both candidates have great - and not so great - things about them. In any case, here are two articles that kind of made me feel uneasy. The first was posted in a blog that I copied - therefore I cannot vouch for its authenticity and I am too lazy to research it. The second is a copy from an email I got today from the GOP so it is from a legit source - whether you choose to agree with the mission of the GOP or not.

Obama Explains National Anthem Stance On Sat, 22 Mar 2008 18:48:04 -0400
'LT.Bill Ginn' USAF ret forwarded:
Hot on the heels of his explanation for why he no longer wears a flag pin, presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama was forced to explain why he doesn't follow protocol when the National Anthem is played. According to the United States Code, Title 36, Chapter 10, Sec. 171: During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform are expected to stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. "As I've said about the flag pin, I don't want to be perceived as taking sides," Obama said. "There are a lot of people in the world to whom the American flag is a symbol of oppression. And the anthem itself conveys a war like message. You know, the bombs bursting in air and all. It should be swapped for something less parochial and less bellicose. I like the song I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing. If that were our anthem, then I might salute it."

And: http://www.gopusa.com/theloft/?p=739

Ummmmm.......WHAT?!

Thoughts? Please be respectful to me and both parties in your comments. Do I think that singing the National Anthem and encouraging others to speak Spanish will affect one's ability to rule the country in a certain way? No. But does it tell us more about the character of this man? (And as stated before - both def have issues...as we all do I guess.)

This morning on our usual walk Monica, Janell, and I got onto the subject of funny things we believed as a kid. Janell and Monica shared some funny stories (that I won't share here just because I don't have their permission although I'm sure they wouldn't mind) and when I got home I continued to remember silly things I totally believed when I was little. A couple of those were that the world was black and white (just like the TV shows) but then someone invented color so the world had color and the tv shows were now able to be in color...and that little people (like leprechaun type people) sat in the sensor boxes above doors (that open for you when you walk in buildings) and controlled opening and closing them for people as they entered and exited the stores. I am sitting here laughing also remembering some explanations my parents told me when I was little that I totally bought such as the explanation for homosexuality, etc. Anyway, leave me a comment and tell me some of the bizarre things you believed as a kid.:-) Happy Monday!

I hope you all had a great 4th of July! My day was nice. I slept in a bit and did my typical morning walk with Janell and Monica. I then went to the outlets and Super Target with my mom in Tulare. I came home from that and took a nap (I never get those anymore and it was glorious!) and then went over to my parents' house and baked a sugar-free cake. We then enjoyed a BBQ and fireworks with extended family. The weather was perfect last night, too. This morning I slept in until 9:30 AM (I slept so hard last night - I think I woke up in the same position I fell asleep in) and now I am sitting here (still in my pjs) getting little things done that I have been meaning to do - like post on my blog and send pics from my camera to friends like I promised days (or weeks) ago. Anyway, some of this pics were too fun not to post here. Enjoy - and have a great weekend!:-)

Some pics from June 08

Jersey doing what he does best...sleeping on furniture he is not allowed on!

My dad sent me these beautiful flowers at work. I think they are tiger lilies. They are SO PRETTY! He is very thoughtful. Can you spot JK (Jersey Kitty) in the first pic? I didn't realize he had "snuck" into the shot until I uploaded the pics.

Jerelyn July 08

I was able to go with Jerelyn to pick up her wedding gown. I saw it in person too and she is going to make a beautiful bride! We went to Uno's before David's for dinner - YUM!

Some family pics July 08

Here are some silly pics of my niece (and her papa) at Mimi and Papa's house. One thing she loves to do is go through my purse and play with whatever is in there. As you can see she found my reading glasses - funny girl!

NYC Trip Pics from Memorial Day Weekend

I was trying to explain to my mom how they park cars in NYC (they also do have parking garages but obviously space is limited so this is how they do it in small spots). Crazy, huh?

Hannah and I at...I can't remember the name...Daily News? Anyway, this globe has been in several movies, one of them being Superman. It was very cool! The guy taking this pic for us was sooo excited to be in this building, he was telling us all kinds of interesting facts. ( BTW I can't fit into these pants anymore - they are too big! As of my weigh in last Wed I am down 23.75 pounds!)

Cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery. They were the best cupcakes EVER! I think I have a new tradition for NYC!

Soooo fun to be on the EC once again - in the greatest city in the world!!

Here is Hannah with our favorite dish at our favorite NYC restaurant - Treccolori Tratorria.

Need TWO housesitters (will pay) PLEASE!!!

Hi Friends,
I am going on a cruise with my family July 26-August 5 to Alaska. My brother and SIL need a housesitter to stay with their indoor/outdoor chocolate lab and I need a housesitter to stay with my indoor/outdoor kitten. Basically we just need someone to stay the night and spend some time with our pets each day. It would be super nice if the dog is walked as well as she loves those times outside. Both houses have an alarm system so you will be totally safe...you will have access to a pool and will have a whole house to yourself and will be paid for your time. Please let me know if you are interested. All we ask is that you be an adult, responsible, and like pets.
Thanks, ashley :-)

I discovered a wonderful site called Shutterfly. It is so much fun - but be careful because it is addicting! I made three scrapbooks - each for a year while I was back East. My first two arrive in the mail today. I can't wait to see the finished product. It is very easy and a great way to organize and display your memories. Check it out! It does have the option to post them online and I thought about doing that so I could show you my work that I am so excited about - but I decided against it because it does have people in it who are minors or friends who may not want their pics on the website. Hopefully you can see the albums someday in person.

It was 110 on Saturday - hot hot hot!!!

I hope you all are planning on cheering for Fresno State today! My boss has allowed us to put it on even though it starts at 4. While I will have to listen to it on my radio - I am still just as excited about it all. What a great "cinderella" story!

Some of you have asked how I am doing on my summer project of getting fit. As of my last weigh in on Wednesday I am down 17.75 pounds. I am in my seventh week. I am really excited about this new stage and process. I am impatient but I am hanging in there and will definitely not give up. I feel good knowing that I am making a positive change in my life, even though it is really hard!

I don't think I mentioned on here that my neighbors saw me naked. I don't know their names, but it is the family that owns Tom's Donuts. And, I was totally in my house having just gotten out of my shower and I spotted them looking through their fence into my house - and they didn't even move when I spotted them. I haven't gone to their donut shop since - which granted is a good thing since I can't eat junk food. But dang how I do enjoy their apple fritters!!

I was asked to be a part of another wedding and I am excited to help out! This time around I am the guest book attendant. I haven't done that job since I was in high school..but don't worry Cindy I am sure my skills have improved.:-)

The Young Life group came home from camp at Malibu on Saturday. I can't wait to hear all about it.

Work has been very slow lately...I hope it picks up soon. The following is a link to a show that had my boss on to talk about our agency. It is definitely cheesy low budget local TV quality - but it is informative and if you are at all interested please take some time to watch. I am the social worker for the foster/adoptive parents they interview - The Rodriguez family. If the link doesn't work look for the June 6th show featuring Valley Teen Ranch CEO Connie Clendenan.

http://www.hspees.com/show_archive.php

People are really desperate around here (as I am sure they are in your neck of the woods as well) for money or things they can sell for money. My office is in a building that we share with three other offices. (VTR owns the building and rents out the other two offices). We have five AC units on top of the building. Last week when we went to turn on the AC we noticed that it was blowing hot air. The next day when we tried again it was the same thing - hot air. We called the AC company and had them come out to check what was going on. When the guy came down from the ladder he told us that we needed to call the police - we had been robbed. Apparently someone came and stole the copper wiring out of 5 of the 6 units. Why they didn't take from the sixth unit we don't know - maybe they got spooked or something. In any case our units need to be completely replaced and in the meantime we are using fans and trying to stay cool in our offices. Luckily it hasn't been that hot so it hasn't been too much of a problem. When the police came out to write a report they told us that crimes like these are on a rapid rise. They said with the economy the way it is people are very desperate to get money or things for free. He told us that people stealing gas out of other people's cars is also drastically increasing. When will we get out of this recession? If I am struggling I really feel for the folks who are single parents or aren't working, etc. With gas being so expensive I have been thinking about selling my car. Unfortunately SUV's sales have plummeted and I would lose a couple thousand dollars if I sold. Ugh. And I am having difficulty making ends meet even more then before. On Sunday I bought my groceries (as usual) and grabbed five apples. When I went to check out I noticed the price was about a buck an apple. It is my fault for not looking at the price beforehand when I grabbed some... I bought gas yesterday for $4.60/gallon. I wonder if my boss will let me do four 10 hour days instead of five 8 hour days? I dunno. What are some things you are doing to help save money in these hard times? Or am I the only one struggling?

I have developed a routine over the last three weeks or so that I am enjoying and is really helping me stay with my new "get fit" plan. I have been walking three miles with Janell every morning before work from 5:45 - 6:45 AM. Then I go to Fresno and work and get back to Kingsburg around 5:45 PM. I try to be at my parents' house by 6:30 and eat with them and then walk another two miles with my mom, SIL, and niece. I try to be back home (with errands and odds and ends around the house done) and in bed by 9:30. It has been hard trying to get my body to be tired by 9:30 PM. I am a night owl and before I started walking in the morning I tried to be in bed by 10:30 which was a challenge enough in itself. But, I am a person who definitely needs her sleep and I try to be in bed for eight hours - asleep or not. My schedule doesn't really allow for me to do anything social or "fun" during the weekdays - but I do enjoy the social time that I get while I walk and it just makes me look forward to the weekends all the more.:-)

Last Saturday I went to see "You don't mess with the Zohan." We walked out about 45 mins into the movie. DO NOT GO SEE THIS MOVIE. The fact that it is a PG-13 is ridiculous. This movie is disgusting. For example: he becomes a popular hairstylist because he gives each customer something a little extra in the back room after each styling...if you catch what I mean. Adam Sandler is a funny guy - why does he have to resort to such things? Anyway, do not even rent it. Obviously as a Christian I find this movie even more revolting then maybe the average viewer - although I have heard through the grapevine that many have been shocked by the content. It turns my stomach to think of how many kids will be seeing that movie...:-(

Today I am having lunch with Liz (Christenson) Sanchez. I am excited to see her and meet her new son. We have been friends since jr. high and that girl is so darn funny!!! I love her and wish I could see her more often.

On Sunday my pastor spoke on fear and what it means in regards to fearing the Lord. He referenced Proverbs and several other passages that referenced how people feared the Lord and what God wants when He instructs us to fear him. Obviously it is not a run and hide type of thing - but rather a reverence for His holiness, obedience, respect and admiration (not being foolish), and love. Do I fear the Lord? Sure I do. At all time? Not quite!! When people interact with me do they walk away with the impression that I am one who fears her God? I'm sure not nearly as much as I would like them to. Anyway, it was a great sermon and I have been pondering my life and wondering what I can do differently to better fear God - and thus loving Him and others more. One I know for sure is continue to get fit - which is my project for the summer. I am being obedient to Him by doing this. (Some might be disobedient to the Lord with their bodies, as I have been, some in other areas, it is different for everyone.) What I'm saying is that disrespecting what God has given me (my body - His temple) is sin, overeating is sin, using food for anything other then fuel and nutrition (what He intended it to be) is sin, and that I use it as an excuse to not relate to people as well as I should. By me getting fit (which might not be skinny to the world's standards) means that I will be more able to serve Him better. I am in the midst of some of the hardest work of my life (this is NOT easy) but it is the right thing to do - and sometimes the right choice doesn't feel good or isn't the easiest. God has really been working on me in obedience in this area, and I have been stubborn and He has always won and I sometimes grumble back at Him...it has been some challenging times - but it also has been RICH times too! I wonder what we will be working on next? Lord knows He won't be done refining me until my last day here is done!!

My trip back East was good...not exactly as I planned it but that's life I guess! The flights there and back were great - no problems at all. It was fun flying into my old neck of the woods - not much has changed. I felt like I had just left! The smells came rushing back and of course I was quickly reintroduced to the EC attitude. Highlights of the trip were the shows we saw (Mary Poppins was my favorite. Also saw Young Frankenstein and Legally Blond), visiting Magnolia Bakery and having the most amazing cupcake ever (well worth the 30-min wait), eating at our fave places and just taking everything in and "being" in NYC. (The city was very busy that weekend.) On our way back into NJ we got to ride on one of the new transit trains (which was super nice), and as usually our luck were seated by some really annoying drunk people (this time the drunk people didn't hit on us). On Sunday night I got to spend a little bit of time in Hunterdon County. While it was in the dark and we were there for just a few mins, it still felt like home. I did try to stop in on some old friends to surprise them but unfortunately they weren't home. We couldn't have asked for nicer weather too - it was perfect!! In hindsight I would have loved more time in NJ and (of course) PA and VA, but one can only do so much in a holiday weekend! I'm sure more stuff happened but my memory isn't serving me all too well at the moment!

Last night I watched my team, the Pittsburgh Penguins, survive and edge past Detroit in sudden death triple overtime. Can't wait until tomorrow night!! I do love the Pens and if I was rich I so would be in PA rooting them on in person tomorrow night!!

I had a terrible weekend. It was totally one of those weekends where everything seemed to be going wrong. I hurt both of my feet walking (5 miles a day) and was hobbling around all weekend due to the many blisters on the bottom of each foot. To top it off I cut my heel with a razor and not only had to keep changing band aids trying to get it to clot but once I got it under control I got to clean the blood that was all over the carpet. Note to self - don't try to walk across the room on a bloody foot!! My laptop caught a trojan and died. I broke a dish. My niece broke my sunglasses. My windshield got hit with a rock. My kitten was ultra annoying and very disobedient and wouldn't come when I called him and was late. My Arbonne party was canceled. And, I didn't clean my house (again - I am so bad!) Anyway, that was one weekend I was glad to see end.

I did get a surprise early bday present - a new laptop - from my parents last night.:-)

I am reading a good book right now called Now and Not Yet. I so identify with it and it makes me feel more normal and less alone!! It is a must read for any Christian single girl in her upper 20's and older who sometimes wonder, "Seriously, God, what is going on here? What is wrong with me?" Ok friends, go get it NOW!

Sorry for the 20 days since my last post. I must admit, I just haven't been in the blogging mood lately. Maybe I am simply being blog-lazy! In any case, I thought that I better quickly update you or else I will be really, really behind! So here is a recap of what has been going on with me. (And the next time I hope to blog will be when I am on the EC!:-))

Gas
Is now at $4.35/gallon here. OUCH!

Diet
Some of you know, some of you don't. My writing it here is my way of keeping myself accountable - although I must admit that I don't like letting the world know that I am dieting! In any case, today marks two weeks since I started a very intense diet. I am taking HCG/B12 shots three times a week. I am eating only 800 calories. I am taking prescription medicine to curb my hunger and give me energy (phentermine, water pills, vitamins, etc). I am exercising as much as I can. I know, I know some of you may think that meds, shots, and such a low-cal diet is unhealthy and crazy. I would somewhat agree with you. I definitely need to note that it is not for everyone. My body/circumstance is able to handle this type of diet and this is what I am choosing to do to get semi-fast results. I am under the close watch of a doctor and the meds and shots are only a SHORT TERM way to help me lose weight - they are tools and not the answer. Obviously I know that a lifetime of eating less and exercising more is the best way to do it - and what I plan to do (as well as meeting with a nutritionist once a month) for the rest of my life to maintain. I am hoping to reach my halfway goal at the end of June and reach my full goal by my 30th bday in early September. I must say that while this diet is tough, I am committed and sticking to it! And, it is working. I have lost 9.75 pounds so far. I am noticing it in my clothes and that is the best motivation. I am already feeling better and hope to inspire other people to take control. I'll keep you updated!

NYC
I leave this afternoon for my EC trip. I am way excited. We will be in PA, NJ, and NY (most of our time being in NYC). Thank goodness for my tax refund and rebate which allowed me to take this trip debt-free. The weather looks nice and (I think I mentioned this before) it is a year to the day since I moved. Hannah is flying out from WA and meeting me there. It is kinda surreal - I can't believe I will be there tonight! I am working a half day today and fly out this afternoon. Many thanks to my dad and Jerelyn who are taking turns watching Jersey-kitty while I am gone!

Michael Buble
A couple of weeks ago my mom and I went to this concert in Fresno. We had WONDERFUL seats. We couldn't quite reach out and touch him but we definitely were very up close and personal. The concert was soooo good. He is quite the entertainer - funny, warm, very interactive with the audience, CUTE, and a great singer. His band was also excellent. I would rate this concert a pg-13 though - I def didn't think Michael Buble would be kinda risque sometimes. Nevertheless, if you get a chance, go see him. The music is terrific, and he is all around a great performer. A quick side story - he came out in jeans and a hoodie and watched the opening act and sat with the sound guys. I recognized him and at that point we def could have reached out and touched him. My mom and I (of course) didn't make a scene but really enjoyed just watching him interact with the others and support the group before him. When they were done he high-fived each of them as they exited. By then though other people had noticed him and were yelling at him. He tried to keep a low profile but at that point he had to go backstage. He seemed to be very down to earth and have a good repoir (sp?) with everyone.

Young Life
Our last club was last night. I am looking forward to having another night free to exercise and relax. The best part of YL this year has been making new friends with the other YL leaders. I hope I get to see them over the summer. They go to my church so hopefully I will bump into them there. CA YL has been different from NJ YL. Different doesn't mean bad though. Sometimes I will still see a kid walking and think, "Oh there's s0-and-so!" and then realize that these are CA kids and not NJ kids. There is something to be said about serving in the same YL club that I was in as a high schooler. I wish I could go to Malibu (camp in BC) with them this summer! I have also enjoyed getting to know the girls.

Mother's Day
This was a good, relaxed day. My dad was out of town in Iowa helping with a raid (one of the largest there). I hosted dinner at my house. Ryan, Brooke, Sullivan, me, my mom (of course - it was her day!), and my aunt were there. Everyone pitched in and dinner was great. I don't mind hosting - in fact I rather enjoy entertaining. And I think it is a nice break for my mom to get out of her place...

Suzanne
One of my good friends (and former roomie) was in town and I got to visit with her a couple of weeks ago. She is such a great person. I wish she lived closer! It was so nice to catch up - even if it was for just a little while. She is one of those types of people where no matter how long you are apart when you get together you pick up right where you left off. She has been there for me in good and bad times and is definitely a life long friend. While they were here her husband (and my friend) Chris graduated. Congrats Chris!

Sleepover
Sullivan had her first slumber party ever and it was at my house last Friday night. She did very well and her primary concern was playing with the kitten. Her first words when she woke up were, "Ti?" "Ti?" (Her word for kitty.) She and I played on the piano, played in the backyard, watched cartoons, played with toys, and more. She slept in my bed with me and also shared my pillow (by her choice). She is so funny - and such a sweet girl. Thanks to her parents for letting me spend that time with her!!

Swedish Festival
The next morning we got up, got ready, and walked down to the Swedish Festival parade with Brooke. The parade was long and VERY hot (103). We really didn't stay afterward to walk around as it was too hot and we were ready to get out of the sun. I really wish they had kept the booths in the beautiful shaded park. I hadn't been to the Swedish Festival in years so it was fun to go again - even though hardly anything had changed. My mom was in the parade for her school. I was asked to be in the parade (as I am a former Swedish Festival queen) but I nicely turned them down. Maybe some day, but not this year. It was Kingsburg's 100th bday and they were giving out free cake. I was a good girl though and didn't eat any!:-)

You are pretty much up to date now! Gotta get back to work - have a great Thursday!