Good work if you can get it

So the last day before my maternity leave I worked on a flyer for my bosses dad's retirement party. It actually turned out pretty good. My boss was impressed and said, 'I didn't know you could do this'. I said, well I do have a degree in design, 'You do?'. Ok I had worked for this company for 3 years, I'm not sure how that information got missed. I guess the fact that I was hired as a temp and they liked me and hired me on full time after about a week, I don't think they even looked at my resume. I didn't really ever bring it up because I had a feeling it would mean more work for me without being compensated so I kept my mouth shut.
Well the cats out and they've put me to work.
I got a phone call Thursday at about noon asking me to come up with a few t-shirt designs for they're 2nd annual Lake Havasu Poker Run. Knowing my work they needed it yesterday and I only work till 4 which meant I had about 4 hours to come up with something. I was still sick and sleep deprived and therefore my creative juices were not at top form. Luckily they said it was ok if I finished on Tuesday which was good because I actually got inspired over the weekend and came up with a decent Idea. My bosses put in his two strippers I mean cents into the design.

They wanted a design for a tank top for the girls. After putting this design together I realized that the cards are both spades so I changed one to hearts which was a pain but worth it. I'm glad I worked so hard to get these done yesterday because the disc with the images is still sitting on my desk waiting to get picked up. Oh well. It's kind of fun to do this stuff and get paid for it. I wish I was better and could get an actually job doing this full time but I'll take what I can get. So far they've had me do a few brochures and of coarse the flyer for the Poker Run.

Birthday Wishes and Caviar Dreams

Here's a few things I've found on the Internet the past few months that I Want! And well since my birthday is coming up, March 15th to be exact, I thought I would make a little list of ideas of what you can get me for my birthday. Hopefully I'm giving you all enough time. I would just feel really bad if I didn't give everyone the opportunity to get me something for my birthday.


This is Amy Butler stationary, she just came out with a paper line. I love her fabric, so pretty much any fabric or pattern or book would work, but I just love this stationary, I want to spray it with perfume and write love letters on it.

Then there is Angela Adams, if you don't know she makes the most amazing rugs, so amazing they cost thousands of dollars, but she has been kind enough to lend her talent to a few more affordable things things as well. Again with the Stationary but how cute is this, and little bird stickers, yes please.










Angela Adams also Makes really cute purses and a few of them are on sale now. I love this green one, it's called Cecily and it's on sale for 50.00. She also sells prints which I think are an amazing deal for 30.00 each. I don't know the quality but they are so cool, I'd love to get a couple and frame them.

I've been wanting a glass pedestal cake stand with a cover. This is just the only image I could find it's not necessarily the one I want. There is one on Crate & Barrels website that is awesome but it wouldn't let me copy the pic.

Of coarse money is always accepted and appreciated or Target gift cards, Heck a card or phone call works for me, I'm easy! Start planning now because before you know it I'm going to be the big three three and I don't want it to pass you by without you being able to acknowledge how great I am and how much you like me.

And the Oscar goes to...

I haven't watched the Oscars in years and hadn't planned on watching it this year but my body had other plans. I was Sick, Sick, Sick. I havn't felt this bad in years. Sadly Ike had it first and either cried or slept the whole day and that's pretty much how I felt too. Ryan was nice enough to take Ike to family dinner sunday night so I could be sick on my own. Since the Oscars were on, well why not.

My favorite part of the show was the performance by the two stars of the movie Once, it's an infectious song and I'm so glad it won. During the acceptance speech that darn 'get off the stage' music came on before the darling Marketa Irglova could say her thanks, so after the break Jon Stewart brought her back out to give her her moment, which was a very inspiring acceptance speech.

Now I'm watching the Fashion Police show and it seems like they are just reaching to rip on people. The only one that really offended me was Tilda Swinton, everyone else I thought looked really pretty.

The last time I was this sick I ended up watching the National IQ Test and ended up scoring a 130. I don't know if it was the fever that made my mind clearer but I'm not sure I could score that high again so I haven't tried. But it qualifies me for Mensa so I'll take it.

Let's get physical

My sisters would never tell me the double entendre that made that song so racey. They always said I'd figure it out some day. They said it in regards to that song 'I'm just a gigolo' by David Lee Roth too. But I digress, that's not what this post is about.

I found a workout that I actually like doing. I got the book You on a Diet, which truth be told I haven't even cracked open yet. But when I saw on Blockbuster.com that they had a You on a Diet Workout I decided to rent it. It has 20 minute workouts for beginner, intermediate and advanced. Being in an out of shape post pregnancy state, I've only tackled the beginner but I think it's doing what it's suppose to. I'm feeling it in all the places I usually ache naturally so they obviously need some strengthening, shoulders, back, stomach, legs. I've actually been craving doing this workout, which says alot because I've never liked working out before. So I've only done if for 3 days now, but it's a start. I tried everything to make a copy of it but the darn thing is copy protected so I'm going to have to actually buy it, but I think it will be worth it. Now if only I could find the outfit that Olivia is wearing I would really enjoy working out.

Does anyone else have a workout video that they love that I should try, I'm looking for a good Yoga one too.

So Long - A brief history

Castro has finally stepped down today after 49 years of ruling Cuba. Now what is going to happen? Is his brother Raul any better? Will they allow a free election? Will the US lift their trade embargo? It will be interesting to see what happens. I watched the American Experience about Castro a while back which I did a quick post about. Ryan and I watched a movie called I Am Cuba which was beautiful to watch and interesting as a pro Castro propaganda movie. It's one of those movies I could see playing in the background of a hip cocktail party. It's worth seeing for the cinematography alone.

Here's a quick run down of Castro's history, just off the top of my head (yeah right).

Fidel Castro seized power in Cuba in 1959 and held it for nearly a half-century, becoming one of the world's longest-ruling leaders. After falling ill in July 2006, he cedes power to his brother Raul, then resigns as president in February 2008. Read a timeline of the communist dictator's life.
December 1903: The treaty leasing Guantanamo Bay to the United States for use as a military fueling station is signed in Havana.
1925: The Cuban Socialist Party is founded.
Aug. 13, 1926: Fidel Alejandro Castro Ruz is born on his family's sugar plantation in Biran, Cuba.
1933: Gerado Machado's dictatorial regime is overthrown in a military coup led by Sgt. Fulgencio Batista.
1944: Batista retires and is succeeded by Ramon Gray San Martin.
1945: Castro attends the University of Havana Law School.
1950: Castro opens a private law practice in Havana.
1952: Castro's plans to run for the House of Representatives are disrupted as Batista returns to power after an eight-year retirement.
July 26, 1953: Castro organizes a rebellion, attacking Batista's largest military outpost, the Moncada Barracks near Santiago. The revolt is unsuccessful and Castro is arrested.
October 1953: After a three-month trial, Castro is sentenced to 15 years in prison for his part in the attacks on the Moncada Barracks.
May 1955: Castro is granted amnesty and released from prison. He goes into exile in Mexico.
1955: While in Mexico, Castro founds the 26th of July movement, named after the failed offensive on the Moncada Barracks that led to his imprisonment.
1956: Castro returns to Cuba. He creates a stronghold in the Sierra Masetra Mountains where his revolutionary movement grows in popularity.
1958: The United States withdraws its military assistance to the Batista regime.
Jan. 1, 1959: Batista flees Cuba as Castro's forces enter Havana. In the following week, a new government is formed and Castro arrives, assuming the post as commander in chief of the armed forces. Castro would also later fill the position of prime minister, vacated by Jose Miro Cardona.
May 1959: Castro's government begins expropriating U.S.-owned property.
June 1960: Castro nationalizes an estimated $850 million worth of U.S. property and businesses after President Eisenhower slashes the import quota for Cuban sugar.
The Bay of Pigs Invasion
April 14, 1961: Castro describes his revolution as socialist.
April 15, 1961: The U.S. military bombs Cuban airfields.
April 17, 1961: Hoping to incite a popular uprising against Castro's government, a force of about 1,400 Cuban exiles — who are trained, financed and commanded by the CIA l— land at Playa Giron in the Bay of Pigs. President Kennedy cancels official U.S. military support for the operation at the last minute.
April 21, 1961: Castro's forces successfully defend the shore, capturing the invading exiles.
Feb. 7, 1962: In continued response to Cuba's nationalization of American property, the United States imposes a trade embargo against Cuba.
The Cuban Missile Crisis
Oct. 14, 1962: A U-2 spy-plane mission discovers missile sites in Cuba.
Oct. 22, 1962: President Kennedy announces the presence of tactical missile sites in Cuba.
Oct. 27, 1962: An American U-2 spy plan is shot down over Cuba, killing the pilot.
Oct. 28, 1962: After tense negotiations with the United States, Khrushchev agrees to withdraw Soviet missiles from Cuba. In return, the United States agrees not to invade Cuba and to remove missiles from Turkey.
Dec. 1, 1965: The United States begins an airlift of residents seeking to leave Cuba.
Nov. 2, 1966: Almost 125,000 Cubans living in the United States apply for permanent residency after President Johnson grants amnesty to Cuban immigrants who arrived in the country after Jan. 1, 1959.
April 6, 1973: The Cuban airlift ends after bringing more than 260,000 Cuban immigrants to the United States in eight years.
Nov. 11, 1975: The Angolan independence group M.P.L.A. takes over the capital city of Luanda and declares Angola's independence from Portugal with heavy military assistance from Cuba.
Nov. 20, 1975: U.S. intelligence discloses more than eight failed attempts by the CIA to assassinate Fidel Castro between 1960 and 1965.
1976: Cuban Communist Party adopts a new constitution institutionalizing socialism. Castro assumes the presidency.
1980: More than 125,000 Cubans flood out of the port of Mariel and make their way to Florida. Over a five-month span, the Mariel boatlift also brings thousands of criminals and mental patients to U.S. shores.
1988: Cuba withdraws its military presence from Angola.
1991: Soviet advisers leave Cuba following the collapse of the USSR. Lacking Soviet economic aid, Cuba's economy falls into recession.
Sept. 9, 1994: Cuba and the United States agree to cap the number of Cuban refugees admitted into the United States at 20,000 per year.
January 1996: Brothers to the Rescue, an anti-Castro organization based in Miami, uses airplanes to drop fliers over Havana urging citizens to revolt against the government.
Feb. 24, 1996: U.S. trade embargo becomes permanent in response to Cuba shooting down two U.S. aircraft operated by Miami-based Cuban exiles.
January 1998: Pope John Paul II visits Cuba.
November 1999: Six-year-old Elian Gonzalez is found floating off the coast of South Florida after the boat carrying him, his mother and 12 others capsized. His mother drowned in the accident and Elian is put in the custody of family members in Miami. After a high-profile legal dispute, Elian is reunited with his father in Cuba in June 2000.
1999: Castro celebrates 40 years in power.
October 2000: U.S. House of Representatives approves limited sale of food and medicine to Cuba, revising the Cuban trade embargo.
April 2004: The United Nations Human Rights Commission censures Cuba over recent human rights abuses, including the detention of more than 75 political dissidents.
2005: Forbes magazine lists Castro among the world's richest people, estimating his net worth at $550 million. In 2006, Forbes increases his estimated worth to $900 million; Castro denies that he benefits from an empire of state-owned enterprises.
March 30, 2006: Spanish-language newspapers mistakenly report that Fidel Castro is dead.
July 31, 2006: A statement from the Cuban leader says Castro has undergone surgery for intestinal bleeding and that he is temporarily ceding power to his brother Raul.
March 28, 2007: Castro writes the first dozens of essays called "Reflections of the Commander in Chief" that give him a voice on international affairs while he remains off the public stage.
Dec. 18, 2007: Castro publishes an essay saying he doesn't intend to cling to power forever, and will not "obstruct the path of younger people." He repeats the theme 10 days later in letter to parliament.
Jan. 20, 2008: Castro is re-elected to parliament, leaving open the possibility he could remain as president.
Feb. 19, 2008: Castro resigns as president, saying "it would be a betrayal to my conscience to accept a responsibility requiring more mobility and dedication than I am physically able to offer.
*Sources: NPR research, the Associated Press, PBS American Experience, BBC

I chocolate cake you

I decided I had better make the flourless chocolate cake that I recomended to everyone since it sounded like a few of you were planning on making it too. I'm glad I did, it was just as delightful as I remembered. I decided it's basically a fallen souffle, very light and moist. I ended up baking it longer than the recomended time and it seemed to have worked so I hope who ever made it it worked out.

I told Ryan all I wanted for Valentine's Day was to have dinner at home and then watch a movie. Since it's like pulling teeth to make him watch a movie with me I figured sparing him getting me something he would have to agree. I watched the begining of the documentary The King of Kong, A Fist Full of Quarters, and knew Ryan would like it, so that's what we watched. It's about, you guessed it, the nintendo game Donkey Kong. It shouldn't have been suprising to learn that there is still a group who competes for top scores of the classic nintendo games. It was a really entertaining film, including a hero and a villian like any good drama. I highly recomend it. Ryan paused it to take Oskar out and it ended up on this screen, how appropriate. I love it when things just work out.

Happy Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine's Day everybody. I hope you are all find Love in your day.
XOXO

Yum!

Ryan and I were watching Everyday Food Saturday morning and the New York guy was making all his chocolate desserts. Yum. This is one of my favorites, I made it a few months ago and now am craving it again. Ryan is not a dessert guy which is a shame because it's one of my favorite things to make. However he is a chocolate lover so once in a while he'll eat what I make if it's chocolate. For some reason though I don't think he tried this last time I made it. His loss. It's a perfect cake for the big V-Day coming up.

Ingredients
Serves 8
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for pan
8 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
6 large eggs, separated
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting
Sweetened whipped cream, for serving

Directions
Preheat the oven to 275 degrees.with the rack in the center. Butter the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
Place butter and chocolate in a large heatproof bowl and microwave in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until completely melted. Let cool slightly. Whisk in egg yolks.
In a large bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar, and continue beating until glossy stiff peaks form. Whisk 1/4 of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture; then gently fold in remaining egg whites.
Pour batter into the prepared pan, and smooth the top with a rubber spatula. Bake until the cake pulls away from the sides of the pan and is set in the center, 45 to 50 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack; remove sides of pan. Serve at room temperature, dusted with confectioners’ sugar. Serve with whipped cream, if desired.

For some reason whenever I watch a cooking show, or decorating show for that matter, when they are cooking and they put something in the oven I always think, 'oh man I don't want to have to wait for that to cook (or be decorated) to see how it turns out'. Of coarse seconds later they show the finished product. Does anybody else do that or is it just me.

Yeah!

Hannah did a post about making these cute needle books and I was covetous of them, then today I get the mail and Yeah! she sent me one. It's super cute and just my colors. Thanks!

P.S. Spell Check on here isn't working for me, is it not working all together or is it just me? Either way I'm screwed because I have the spelling competency of a 5th grader.

Next time won't you sing with me

I stole this Idea from Hannah, I enjoyed reading hers and learning more about her and since I'm feeling uninspired I'm stealing it. Thanks!

A is for Adjectives- name three that describe you: Creative, witty, perseptive
B is for Beverage: water or iced tea
C is for Chocolate: Duncan Hines whipped chocolate frosting is the best for cupcakes!
D is for Day of the week: Monday's and Fridays because I get to spend the whole day with Ike.
E is for Essential item you can’t live without: Lip gloss. I carry a huge purse with me everywhere just so I know I have lip gloss when I need it. Then I have one in every jacket and purse I own. Infact I need some right now.
F is for Friendship: I love my friends and would do anything for them and I know they would do anything for me, even though I'm lucky if I see them every other month.
G is for what kind of Groupie are you: I use to be a music groupie, I've met and hung out with a few bands, I can't really get away with that now.
H is for what you love about your Hometown: The weather, 70 degrees year round, and I could drive to the beach in about 20 mins.
I is for Instruments you play: does iPod count?
J is for Jokes – what makes you laugh? Dry witty humor. I'm a fan of British humor although not as much as I use to be. Ryan makes me laugh all the time.
K is for Kids: Ike is the sweetest cutest baby I could have ever imagined having.
L is for what is was your favorite school Lunch as a kid? Whenever I was going on a field trip I got to pick out what ever I wanted at the grocery store for lunch, drink, chips, cookies, it made the day that much more special.
M is for Music: I've gone through many music phases of my life. Jr. High top 40 (Salt n Pepa) Highschool -Alternative (The Smiths), end of HS Punk (Green Day, NOFX) College Hip hop and Ska (Tribe Called Quest, Dance Hall Crashers), after college Brit pop (Travis and Coldplay), now Emo (Bright Eyes, Death Cab for Cutie) with everything melding into each other along the way.
N is for the story behind your Name/(s): I was named after my mothers best friend at the time I was born. She lived down the street from us growing up so I was able to form a close bond with her. My Middle name is Fern which is my mothers middle name also.
O is for Oops: No one tells you mother hood makes you a total clutz.
P is for Personal style: I use to have some. I'm working on getting it back.
Q is for Quote: "I saved latin, what did you ever do"
R is for your favorite Room: I'm finally taking advantage of our downstairs and spending more time and enjoying it, but I have to say the bedroom because it has a bed.
S is for School: I've been done with school almost 10 years now, that's a scarry thought because it means I'm getting old.
T is for the ultimate Trip: I want to go to Europe with Ryan and /or Kellee
U is for what’s hidden Under your bed: Books and magazines mostly
V is for your favorite Vegetable: Asparagas if I have to pick just one
W is for one Weird thing about you: I hate talking on the phone, if I have to call someone I put it off as long as I possibly can, I have to have a calm ringtone because I sometimes get anxious when it rings, although its getting better, especially since it's usually Ryan calling and I always like getting his phonecalls. I'm very thankful for text messages, then I don't get stuck having to make unpleasant calls.
Y is for years past - something you used to do and you wish you still could: Fit in my old jeans
Z is for what hours you usually catch your ZZZ’s: I could fall asleep at 9 but it usually ends up being 10 or 11 with random wake up calls throughout the night and then about 5:30 Ike's up for the most part.

Sneak Peak

This is an element of the top secret project I'm working on. I just thought it was too cute if I do say so myself. I'm glad it's so snowing today so I have an excuse to stay inside and work on it. Hopefully Ike will cooperate so I can get as much done as I would like to.
I have a lot of ideas I want to do now so I need to finish this up so I can start on them. I'm excited to share my progress with everyone and will be fun to document what I've made over the year in my quest to Create!

SPT - 25th Hour

...but what if there was a way to do it all? what if there was a twenty-fifth hour of the day, an hour all to yourself! no commitments, no distractions, no need to sleep. what would you do?

First thing that came to mind was Sleep! I need it, I want it, I don't get enough of it. But Lelly, in her infinite wisdom ruled that out with the disclaimer that there was no need for sleep. Ok so what then. Hannah chose taking a bath which I have to admit sounds really nice, but I do get to indulge every once in a while, when Ryan isn't already in there. I've been enjoying working on my projects and I have a couple of books going that I need time to read. But when it boils down to it, the thing I most like to do is just to sit and hold Ike. In fact he's crying right now wanting to be held so I'll end this now and start doing my favorite thing.

Happy / Good Mail

I got my first 'Good Mail' today.

Good Mail [goo d] [meyl] adjective, noun & verb
1. tangible generosity
2. thoughtfulness in action
3. delivery of happiness

I sent out cards to all my sisters introducing Good Mail to them. I thought it would be fun to start doing it between the sisters. Rainey started the ball rolling with this cute gnome and a sweet card. She even decorated the box all happy and cute. Hopefully we can all keep it going I think it will be fun.

Thanks Hannah for introducing it and Jill for starting it.

Pookie

To stay on the subject of names. My pet name Ryan calls me is Pookie Love. I'm not sure where he came up with it but I quite like it. I even put it on our wedding announcements. His nickname throughout high school and beyond was Whitey, primarily because of his last name. So on our wedding announcement I had Marjorie (Pookie Love) and Ryan (Whitey). We even ended up getting gifts addressed to Pookie and Whitey, I thought it was kind of cute.
So upon doing some online window shopping I came across this cute stuffed animal. His name? You guessed it, Pookie. I may have to make something similar to it for Ike. I love the Ugly dolls too. Making some stuffed animals for Ike is going to be my next project. My current project is top secret, just know that my hands are aching.
FYI if you google image Pookie there are some random cute pets and then there is a picture of a rather large man in his whitey very tighties working on his computer, I decided to spare you adding it to this post, but you know where to find it, I know your tempted.

SPT- What's in a name

How did you come up with the name for your blog?
I've mentioned it before but my blogs name is Midge because that is Barbie's best friends name. My friend Sarah, the blonde beauty that she is, fancies herself Barbie and started calling me Midge, being that we are best friends. Sarah Actually was the one to buy me my first Barbie, ok Midge doll. I was 25+ when I finally owned my first one. Then Midge got knocked up and shortly after so did I. Sarah's friend Alex got me the Midge and baby Barbie.
So that is where my blog name came from. To restate, that doesn't mean my name has changed, it's still Marjorie or Marj, just my blog is Midge. As for my tag line, 'the better you look the more you see'. That's been one of my favorite sayings since I heard it, who knows where from. I love the double meaning you can get out of it.

Are you kidding me 2

I got my sister Cate's address and wrote it down on a green sticky note. I put it on the cute magnet board that my friend Kellee gave me for Christmas. I had it on the table upstairs. Saturday I was cleaning up and brought it downstairs. Sunday I cleaned and organized my downstairs so I can start doing some projects and so Ike has free rein to crawl all he wants. So I started working on a little project I wanted to send my sisters and was getting the addresses together. Well I had hung up the cute magnet board and No green sticky. Ah man, where could it be. I searched for about 20 mins then finally called Cate, left a message, then called Rainey, left a message. Called my mom, it took her a few minutes to find but I got it from her. By then it was time to head to Salt Lake for dinner so I get my shoes on and am out the door. What's that noise, there's something stuck to my foot. Are You Kidding Me, Ryan was laughing at me as I pulled a green sticky note off my shoe.
I'm taking over Ryan's 'Sports Room' downstairs so I can start working on some projects. I'm excited to get going. My sewing machine needs a tune up but otherwise I'm good to go.

Are you kidding me

The most painful thing just happened. I was putting tooth paste on my tooth brush and some toothpaste flicked into my eye. How does that happen. It KILLED, it still hurts. Needless to say my teeth still aren't brushed yet and Ike is still not in bed. Of coarse because I have to blog about it first. Ouch!

I'm so tired I could punch someone in the face

But it's worth it. I had another Blogger Book Club meeting last night. They get more and more entertaining, for me anyways, because now I'm getting to know more of the girls through there stories and blogs. It's fun to get out of the house one night a month and hang with some fun girls. Did I mention the food, yum, Robyn made the best cheese cake, since I start phase 2 of my diet on Monday it was a good send off.

This month we read:

It was pretty good. How's that for a review. I had a hard time taking interest but towards the end it became more intriguing. It has Jane Eyre under tones. I knows it's blasphemous to say but I've never gotten into the Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë books and movies. There was a funny part in the book where the narrator was sick and the doctor asked if she read a lot of Jane Austen, and diagnosed her with romanticising the heroin of those novels.

We had a good discussion about the book and many other things. I can't wait for the next one!

SPT-Closer Look

Is there a part of you, a part of your home, a part of your creativity that gets more attention from you than anything else? when you look at your reflection, do you automatically zoom in on a feature you love or you loathe? when you are in your creative space, is there one project that gets your attention before all the others? That was this weeks assignment.

For me it's always been my EYES. Both for appearance and creativity. They are about the only thing that gets attention as far as my makeup application goes. I'm often asked if my eyes are orange, they look it in certain light. I've always thought of them as one of my best features. As far as my creativity goes I've always been a very visual person. I was never good at drawing or very technical with my hands but I've always been able to see the beauty in things or how to best make them beautiful. I think they have served me pretty well.

When I was looking at this picture close up my critical eye started to notice the unkempt brow, the wrinkles, the day worn make-up. Even though the signs of age are starting to show there seems to me to still be a little youthful innocence still in there. But then maybe I'm reaching. I just rather find the positive in my appearance. I've never been one to see the negative or to 'loathe' any part of me. If I see something that is different about me I choose to celebrate my uniqueness instead of criticize my flaws. I wish more women would be like that. Love what's different about you while working on becoming the best you can be.

Create *it's my word

A New Years challenge was given out to come up with one word to make your own that will inspire you and keep you on track for the year. My word for this year is Create.

cre·ate /kriˈeɪt/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[kree-eyt] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation verb, -at·ed, -at·ing, adjective
–verb (used with object)
1.to cause to come into being, as something unique that would not naturally evolve or that is not made by ordinary processes.
2.to evolve from one's own thought or imagination, as a work of art or an invention.
3.Theater. to perform (a role) for the first time or in the first production of a play.
4.to make by investing with new rank or by designating; constitute; appoint: to create a peer.
5.to be the cause or occasion of; give rise to: The announcement created confusion.
6.to cause to happen; bring about; arrange, as by intention or design: to create a revolution; to create an opportunity to ask for a raise. –verb (used without object)
7.to do something creative or constructive.
8.British. to make a fuss.

I love the first definition. I love the thought of making something unique and not ordinary. I use to be very creative but I feel like over the last few years I've lost my mojo. So I'm determined to get it back this year. And hopefully not end up just making a fuss.

Help a girl out

My super creative friend Cindy designed this cool shirt and has it up for vote on Threadless. Help her out and Vote for this cool shirt design.

In her words:
You guys are my only hope! I submitted the illustrious "Bear Murders Puma" papercut to Threadless to see if I could maybe possibly get selected. Would you mind going and voting yes for me and maybe I could win! Tell all your friends! Make a new post about it on your blogs!Go here to vote:http://www.threadless.com/critique/12963/Bear_Murders_Puma

A few of my favorite things

My friend Michelle is unexpectedly expecting her third child. It made me remember some of the fun things I found last year when I was pregnant. Some of which I got and some I've just been lusting after.

Knucklehead Clothing

I found the cutest boy clothes ever made. I want everything on the Knuckleheads site but haven't gotten anything yet. They sell a few of the items on a kiosk outside of Nordstrom at the University mall. They have matching mens and boys shirts I've been tempted to get Ryan for fathers day, just might have to one of these days.

Paint by number wallpaper

I got this border for Ike's room but I only got one roll and I need to get order another roll so I can put it up. They have a lot of cute kid designs as well as regular wallpaper. I've had a thing for paint by number stuff lately. I found some cute paint by number fabric with birds on it too, now to figure out what to make with it.

Amy Butler fabric
I've discovered designer quilt fabric. Amy Butler makes the most beautiful fabric. They have a pretty good selection at Broadbents in Lehi, another one of my favorite discoveries. I sent my sister Debbie a bunch of fabric to make me a quilt. Not sure how that is coming along but I'm excited to see it done. I was tempted to make Ike's crib bedding with some of the fabrics but voted against the effort and cost it would entail.
She offers some really cute free patterns on her site also.

Blik wall stickers

I used these in Ike's room and they turned out really cute. I just checked the site and they have some really cute new designs. They are really easy to apply and can be pealed off when you move or want to change the design.

Bird mobile

I wanted this mobile when I was planning my bird room for Ikalina. I love that it's just a silhouette. It reminds me of the paper cuttings Cindy does. I ended up using a mobile that is a simple wire one with clips and put Baseball cards on it.

Uncommon goods

My boss Carrie got me these cutest socks. They are Ike's favorites. They have new cowboy socks and some really cute girl ones. They sell them at a little shop at Trolley Square. You can find them online at Uncommon Goods website. There are a lot of fun baby and other gifts on that site. I get the catalog and always see things I want.

Dwell baby

I wanted this Crib set but Ryan thought it was too girly. They have some fun new designs and you can buy separate pieces so you don't have to pay for the whole thing you can just get the skirt or bumpers which is pretty much all the shows anyways.

Plus I just saw these cute finger puppets on the site. I want to make them. How easy and cute. (Hannah you up for it?)

Last and least, Walmart.com actually has some cute cheap crib sets. Check out this one, remind you of anything?

The Results

Here is the result of all my research and work. I need to get my monkey border up to finish it off. I think Ike's room turned out pretty cute.

I'm sure I'll think of more later but here's a start. Enjoy!

Mrs. Monodextrous

It's amazing the things you learn to do with one arm and/or hand when you are a mom. Like typing for example. Cooking, cleaning, making a bottle,you name it I could probably do it with a 15 lb weight on my hip. I have a new found appreciation for what mom's can accomplish from day to day.

31 Questions, Ike is only the answer to 11 of them.

1. What did you do in 2007 that you’d never done before?
Gave Birth, quite the new experience and not as bad as I thought it would be.
2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I didn't make any last year. This year I have and will hopefully keep them. #1 eating healthy!
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Besides myself, 4 girls from work. It seemed like everywhere I went last year all I saw was pregnant women.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Yes, sadly.
5. What countries did you visit?
Does Ogden count?
6. What would you like to have in 2008 that you lacked in 2007?
Creative inspiration. I didn't lack for much else.
7. What dates from 2007 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
6/7/07 The day Ike came into our lives.
8. What was your biggest personal achievement of the year?
Giving birth kind of over shadows everything else. I learned how to do sudoku, but somehow that just doesn't manage to compare to pushing a human being out of my body.
9. What was your biggest failure?
Not getting rid of my baby weight.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
I had a LEEP procedure which was suppose to be a quick in and out surgery and have an IUD placed at the same time. Well the IUD got pushed through my uterus so all kinds of complications ensued. Good times, but I'm fine.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
We leased a Subaru Outback for Ike, which is pretty sweet. I bought an Adidas black and white track suit for Ike which I think is pretty sweet too.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
Ryan Graduated from School and I'm so proud of him. I celebrate Ike's behavior almost every day which is apparent if you look at his blog.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
I was depressed by someones behavior and I handled it poorly but hopefully it's getting better.
14. Where did most of your money go?
Medical Bills and Groceries. My income is about a 1/3 of what it use to be so I pay my student loan then after gas, diapers, formula, and groceries, I pilfer the clearance section at Target for a little treat now and then.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
I'd say the birth of Ike warrants 3 really's.
16. What song will always remind you of 2007?
The National "Great Empire"
Ryan played this album when I was in labor with Ike so listening to it reminds me of that.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) happier or sadder? 
b) thinner or fatter? 
c) richer or poorer?
a)Happier, Ryan and Ike make me the happiest girl ever.
b)fatter, I have Ike to thank for that one too.
c)poorer, Thanks to Ike again, I have less money but I'm richer in a lot of ways that are much more important in life.
18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Walked and exercised in general. Read more.
19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Ryan's answer for me would be watch less TV, but that's not mine. I wish I would have nagged Ryan less. I don't do it much but I've started doing it more lately. I blame my hormones and hopefully they will get back to normal soon.
20. Did you fall in love in 2007?
Yes with Ike. I fall more in love with Ryan every day.
21. What was your favorite TV program?
Flight of the Conchords and It's always sunny in Philadelphia.
22. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
No, I didn't like Celine Dion last year either.
23. What was the best book you read?
I didn't get as much reading done this year as I wanted to but I did join a book club so I'll be reading more for sure this year. The History of Love I would have to say was my favorite, I'm trying to get Ryan to read it but the title is putting him off.
24. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Ryan discovers the music and I steal it from him. The National, Albert Hammond Jr., Band of Horses (although we listened to them before). I'm sure there are more.
25. What did you want and get?
A healthy happy baby, and Nintendo DS
26. What did you want and not get?
Tivo
27. What was your favorite film of this year?
There are 2 movies that I know will be my favorite but I haven't seen them yet. Darjeeling Limited and Juno. I can't remember the last movie I saw in a theater.
28. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
That's rude, jk. I turned 32 and I honestly can't remember what I did.
29. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Tivo. Just kidding. I had a wonderful year so I can't complain.
30. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2007?
Uninspired. I've lost my mojo when it comes to fashion. Ryan is now the stylish one in the family. However for 2008 I predict Cape's will be the new trend.
31. What kept you sane?
Ryan, and his family.
And Blogging. Thank you everyone who reads this and especially those who comment. I hope I can continue to entertain you in the new year.
Thanks Lucy

2008 Here we come!

Happy New Year Every One! Why does it always amaze you that a new year has come and gone. I have to say 2007 was a pretty good year for me. Having Ike is the best thing that's ever happened to me. On to 2008, what will the year have in store. I foresee some more big changes. Ryan just graduated from school so who knows what will happen next. I don't want to move but the path he decides to take that is a possibility. Ryan's brother Matt will be coming home from his mission. Ike will turn 1 years old. Who Knows.
Then there are New Years Resolutions. I usually don't make them, but this year there are just a couple things I've got on my list.
1. Eat healthy
2. Be nicer to Ryan
3. Be the best mom I can be
4. Read more, Learn More, Use my knowledge to teach and grow.
um, that should do it. I almost started getting lofty, no need for that. Hopefully I can pull these off for the majority of the year. Good luck with all of your resolutions and I hope everyone has a very Happy New Year!
*Illustration by Andy Virgil, care of Today's Inspiration