Mmmm... Fall Foodie Traditions!

 

When I began living on my own, I started doing these little traditions I try to uphold each year. They get me in the spirit and their just FUN. I've become pretty traditional over the years.

 

The boy and I pick out a pumpkin each year. We share in carving it. I usually do half and he does the other half. Last year, we bought a pumpkin carving kit from one of the drug stores around town and it came with various patterns and tools to assist in making the carving process a tad easier. Using the tools make our hands tired! We imprint the pattern on by poking holes in the pumpkin and then we use a mini saw to cut out the parts. I must say though... it does turn out alot better then the alternative butcher knife hack job!

 

Here's the boy carving his part.

 

 

 

Caramel Apples are usually a staple treat for fall since apples are usually in prime season for picking.

 

This year, a co-worker brought in these AMAZING homemade caramel apples! They were so crafty in the way they were decorated. They each had their individual wrapper with an appropriate "treat or treat" ribbon to complete each package. Naturally, I got the recipe from her.

I tried to make them with my moms boyfriend one year and the caramel seemed to harden too hard once it had set on the apple. Not to mention the rough clean up- the caramel burned on the sauce pan. This co-worker shared her tricks with me! The key to non-sticky pans and caramel apples that won't break your teeth? "Indirect heat"- Boiling a pan of water and putting a smaller pan with your caramels in it to melt. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of water to soften the caramels. Let the melted caramel set. Once thick, dip your clean, dry apples in and let dry on buttered wax paper. Then top with toppings.

 

I took the lazy way out this year. I melted the caramel and used it for a dip for the variety of apples I cut up. It made for an awesome dessert after the BBQ we had.

 

Here's the "pumpkin guts", pumpkin pattern and apple variety. 

 

I present to you, "The Slash Witch" as Martin calls it.

He told me the witch looked like it was rockin' out with a guitar like Slash, Guns N Roses guitarist, does.

In actuality, it's suppose to be a witch stirring a witches cauldron.

I think I like "The Slash Witch" better...

 

I try not to let any of the pumpkin go to waste. Therefore, I make roasted pumpkin seeds. This years seeds turned out much better then the charred ones I forgot about last year. Whoops! I seasoned the seeds with garlic salt and garlic powder. Then, I roasted them for about 45 minutes... turning and checking on them constantly.

 

Stay tuned...

 

"The Slash Witch" will soon be chopped, boiled, mashed, frozen and eventually turned into a pumpkin treat for Thanksgiving!

A Voice from the Past Rockin' Through with a State Fair Flair

 

 

A piece of my middle school heart is now complete! I have seen Korn live! Let me take it back a notch... In middle school, I turned into a bit of a rocker. My first concert was at the age of 12 and I've been an avid concert goer ever since. I love rock festivals. My most favorite bands were Metallica, Korn, and Marilyn Manson. I had a different hair color nearly every week,  you weren't "cool" if you didn't have a band t-shirt complete with kik wear pants that covered your shoes long with studded and spiked accessories. I always seemed to get lost in music. I had music posters and various pictures I'd ripped out of rock magazines (mostly Hit Prader) that decorated my room. I was in my rebel stages of my growing up.

 

Last night, we attended the Arizona State Fair where Korn took stage and stole the crowd. Although all the original members weren't there... the recruited members over the years fit in just fine. The way they began with all the older, original songs and eventually went into the newer songs got my all hyped up for the show. They finished with their rendition of Pink Floyd's "The Wall", Metallica's "One" with the big finale of bagpipes and a few more of their old tunes. Why did they redo "Wall" and "One", you say?  That's what I thought... they took a minute to explain the significance by playing freedom songs in respect for all the troops that keep them, their families and us all safe everyday. I respected that Jonathon Davis takes time out of their set and gives back by making tributes to the community that has supported them for the 18 years they've been rockin' (and I've been a fan for). They seemed genuinely thankful for their fans and passionate about rockin'.

 

Truly, one of the best shows I've EVER been to. And... it only cost $10 for AZ State Fair admission. 

 

Below are pictures of front man/lead singer Jonathon Davis, guitarist Monkey, and their recruited bassist.

 

 

Of course, we showed up a little early to see the sights of the fair.

Love old cars!

 

Reason #2 you come to the fair beside concerts- THE FOOD!

Turkey Legs, Roasted Corn and Ginormous Corn Dogs!

 

"Our Body" exhibit was there with real human bodies on display for all to see. Since I saw this exhibit in New York... I skipped it this year.

 

I always like to see the animals. They had mostly sheep and lamas.

 

This sheep had dreads! I name him, "Sheep Marley"

 

The boy and me posing while we waited 2 hours to get into Veterans Memorial Coliseum for the concert.

We "Paced for Second Base": Making Strides for Breast Cancer

 

 

 

Okay this is kind of a tradition we try to do every year. We sign up through the companies, Banner Health and Mi Casa Nursing Center, and walk 3 miles to benefit/support breast cancer. My teams theme was "Save the Coconuts". The walk to held at Tempe Town Lake in beautiful Tempe, Arizona. I love to walk in this area because not only is it beautiful with it's modern landscaping, but it's right next to Arizona State University. This weekend just happened to be the Homecoming game between UCLA and ASU. There were supporters everywhere! Not the mention, the cool, crisp weather.  

 

 

My boy and his brother. Did I mention, we were LATE this year? Yeah... by an hour. Why? Because the boy took his sweet time getting up and about after recovering from a "long" night. The penalty? Why... Starbucks, of course! Mmmm... Pumpkin Spice Frappe with Whipped Cream!

 

We are some fellow walkers with Tempe Town Lake Bridge in the background.

 

Yayyyy, we went from start to finish!!! (Well... Kinda)

 

All in all, this benefit makes me feel honored to be a part of such a large community going for one common cause. It means so much to be able to walk for something that affects so many women and men (yes, men get it too) around the nation. Being able to see survivors along our walk each year gives me hope that one day... we just may find a cure for cancer. Not only breast cancer... but all cancer. Something not many people know about me is ALL of the women on my mothers side of the family (including my mother) had suffered or survived from cancer in one way, shape, form or another. To my knowledge, ranging from lung, bone, blood, skin, breast, ovarian, and thyroid. I am scared to death of what may come to my sister and I one day but prevention is the best tool. We stay healthy and get checked regularly.

Pumpkin and Chili Festival 2012

 

Annually, there is a Pumpkin and Chili Festival at Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek, Arizona. I began attending this event last year and enjoyed it so much, I invited my sister and my nephews to meet up with me this year. My boy couldn't make it this year. I liked it so much because it is clean, family fun. The tickets were $16 at the admission gate and discounted of $3 if we purchased them at Fry's Food Stores. The ticket included the huge corn maze, BMX bike stunt show, pig races, petting zoo, dog show, and various rides to include a roller coaster, mechanical swings, kiddie airplanes and bumblebees, the super slide and the vintage decorated carousel.At an extra cost, items from vendors and farm shops, food and pumpkins from the pumpkin patches could be purchased. Although, I must say, the pumpkins are pricey... better off going to the grocery stores or farmers markets.

 

 Below is a group shot snapped just as we came into the entrance.

 

 

 

Here is one of the best parts about coming to the festival: Homemade Chili and Cornbread!

This meal came with farm-made brownies and roasted sweet corn.

 

As we ate, there was a band to entertain the crowd eating at the picnic benches.

 

 

One of my nephews riding the vintage carousel and in the petting zoo with the goats and sheep

(I'm not sure he's liking the smell by that look on his face!)

                                                                            

 

All in all, (with the exception of the bump on a log I brought along), it was a great family day!

These are the moments that make me happy we moved to the outskirts near my sister.

 

The simple life is a loving life.

 

Loving with Limits

I know now what it means to love someone with limits...

I've tried and tired to help and make it work but there comes a point in one's life when the final breaking point has been met. Loving someone with an addition is the hardest love there is. At times you're on top of the world. These are the times when their at their best. The brief moment when they're sober and the ounces of their true personality peaks out. They genuinely tell you how much you mean to them. On the flip side of the coin, when their screwed up their personality transforms into this horrible person taking shelter in a shell of a person you loved and cared about. Your heart just breaks and aches with an unfillable hole right in the middle.

You put me through Hell as a child. You left me living in trailers, RVs and travel trailers- at times without running water, electric, a working shower or even a our only vehicle to get help while you were selfishly out getting your fix for days upon weeks. Apparently it was more important than your suffering family.

You left your wife, my mother and the only reason I came out a productive young woman, without a ride to work, causing her to walk miles to work. She was forced to work because we never knew whether you would be moving on to your next job as you always did. As soon as the jobs caught on to your lies and cover-ups... it was only a matter of time before they either fired you or you ran. Mom would work double shifts to make sure I was provided for along with scratching from every source possible to make ends meet. mom and I were regulars at the local food bank and churches to help with utilities. I always knew to eat more than I needed at school so I wouldn't be hungry at home later. She was the sole, stable supporter of a broken family. I still don't know how she put up with that lifestyle all these years. Was it Love? I guess she was trying to hide the ugly reality, but little did she know I would find your imperfections  hidden in my dresser drawers and even in my shoes. I was so relieved when she finally divorced you in 2003 and freed herself from a life of pain and disappointment.

I still don't understand how you could have been so selfish all those years. You missed out on so much. You missed choir concerts, drama performances, drill team meets, NJROTC ceremonies, high school football games, flag competitions, prom night, my high school graduation, and had to even be threatened to attend my wedding ceremony (even though I am now divorced). You flaked out on birthdays, holidays and and the special moments of my life.

I always thought one day I'd find you dead or get a call one day saying you'd did yourself in because you couldn't give up your nasty habit. You lie, you cheat, and you steal- anything to get the temporary feel.

You say you quit for 7 years. I was so proud of you. I started giving our relationship a chance and let you back into my life. I introduced you to the people that have made my life wonderful. I trusted you again. You failed me.

I tried to be there because I felt I was the only one who would help you when you were in need.

You got out of alcohol detox Saturday after being taken in from the paramedics and admitted from a 3-day benge that landed you alcohol poisoning. Apparently, your landlord found you breathing but unconscious. You looked horrible. Typical ETOH withdrawals- shakiness, sweatiness, loss of energy and lack of motivation. You couldn't walk straight or even sign your name. When I took you to my house for the weekend, you nearly slept around the clock. You came to what could've been a great family day with your daughters and grand kids- you sat there isolated and depressed and completely disassociated  (hyped up on the whisky pint you drank before attending).

Tonight I went to your place after a concerned call I got. I got word that you were depressed, caughing up blood from over alcohol consumption... among other things. When I got there, I found you drunk with bottles surrounding you. I called the paramedics to try to help you out of this slumber. You declined help and had the nerve to lecture me about possible felony charges over the accusations of drug use- I'm not sorry for caring.

Drugs and  alcohol ruin more lives then your own, Dad.

I love you but I can't do this anymore...

Oh Brother, Where Art Thou... Right Here!

Today I met my brother for the first time! I started out this morning at 7:30am. I woke up, took a hot shower and began getting ready for my day. All the while, thoughts going through my mind of what my brother may be like. Even though we've been texting back and fourth over the course of the last month, what he'd be like face-to-face was still a mystery. Did he resemble dad or his mom? Was he clean cut? Did he speak an accent? Was he as easy-going as he seemed in his messages? This is a day I've been looking forward to since he announced he'd be in town for a family reunion. My father called me a couple times before my departure this morning, making up his mind on whether he'd be going or riding in with me. He's always gone the long way around things before making up his mind. He decided to ride with me after all the hoopla he put me through. I left the house at 8:40am. The drive to my dad's house was peaceful. I rolled down the windows, letting just enough of the cool, brisk morning air into the car without messing up my hair. I was blaring the radio and getting lost in the music as I usually do when I'm alone in the car. This makes the drive to the city that much more enjoyable. Once at my dad's house, I knocked on the door and hollered out that I was here and ready to go. He came out on jumped in the car. On the way, we talked and caught up about recent events as we haven't consistently been in contact as of late. Dad has had a few downfalls lately that have left him down in the dumps. We arrived at the Denny's where we agreed to meet and ended up being 15 minutes early. We walked up and got a table as we awaited my brothers arrival. I was pleased that we beat the early morning church crowd for breakfast. It was nice just walking right in and not waiting. I was afraid I wouldn't recognize him when he showed up (even though I had seen online pictures of him). Once he texted me, alerting me he was there, I saw him and knew it was him right away. I nervously stood at our booth. He came in and sat down across from dad and I. At first, he didn't seem nervous but as the conversing began, I could sense a little nervousness. I was glad dad came with me because he was always good at sparking up a conversation and being social- I always seem to clam up until I'm comfortable. During our meet, he and dad mostly talked about the family my brother knew and the reminiscing of my dad recalling his past memories with his mother. They talked about alot of family in Superior, Arizona and even a big ole donkey brother has fell off of as a child. Dad went on to tell him about himself (past and present) and the reasoning he never came around or why we didn't even know he existed until 11 years ago. He shared adult stories of his cross-country trucking, drill rigging and acid hauling days as well as his jock days as a high school teenager. We found out about him during a trip to Superior, Arizona where dad was approached by the mothers uncle and filled dad in. Once dad knew, he called my brothers mom but she didn't want my brother to have anything to do with dad. Therefore, dad respected her wishes. I always had a curiosity about meeting him. Last month, I found him on facebook from the fact I'd gathered of the little odds and ends I'd overhear in conversations over the years. He said he didn't have anything against us for not touching base with him earlier, just glad we had the opportunity to meet. We got so caught up in nerves, we nearly forgot to order at first. I ate a biscuit and gravy with a order of egg whites with mushrooms. Dad had a biscuit and gravy with an egg and brother had a biscuit and gravy with hash browns. Brother put ketchup in his gravy... that was different. Different strokes for different folks they say. When we were leaving the restaurant, I had to have a picture. My dad asked this cute lil' grandma to take charge of the camera and snap the shot. Needless to say, she had a hard time with it. Bless her heart :) She snapped a good one though!

 

Our meeting was great. I think it'll be a nice start to a life-long relationship. I'm happy I have another sibling in my life. He said he'd keep in contact, as will I. I have a good feeling that this won't be our last time meeting up with one another. I wished him well on his ride home, gave him a hug and said my "see you laters".

 

<3 So Long For Now...

Peace, Love and No More Chicken Grease!

So I think I've mentioned during previous blogs about my quest to eat healthier, workout more, and start living a little more productively- simply to make me feel a little bit better and happier in life. After all, change has to come within and have willingness before anyone can feel the effects of it's glory, right? Absolutely! Reality kind of smack me in the face (HaRd)when I ran into an old co-worker and she commented on how much weight I had gained and went on to mention about how skinny I used to be in the past (mind you, I met her 9 years ago). It effected me in a way that got me thinking about the things I'm doing in my everyday routine that make me the way I am- sleepy, grumpy, overweight and drained. Therefore, in mid-September I began my start to a better me. For starters, I started eating healthier. No more JUNK! No more soda, candy, sugars, sweets, starchy veggies and unnecessary carbs. However I've been implementing select fruits, select veggies, lean meats, carb substitutes, tea sweetened with a tad of 0 calorie sweetener and LOTS and LOTS of water. Don't get me wrong- I'm not perfect! I still enjoy a eat out date night every now and then but I am definitely more conscience of the choices I make when I order off of the menu. Secondly, I've been walking and jogging most mornings and evenings with my dogs. They love going for their walks! Besides, doesn't everyone know "they own the neighborhood". Not only does the extra activity make me happy but it makes my puppy-mutts overjoyed. Since I've started exercising in the mornings, I find myself to be more alert, time-conscience, calmer, happier and energetic. There's a certain peacefulness to comes over me when I get out there and take in the aspects of the day- the way the clouds are formed, sunsets/ sunrises or the stars in the sky, the people out and about, houses that go on the market, landscaping, the cars driving on the road, kids on their way to/from school or playing- there is so much to take in! It helps to get out of the house so I don't feel so couped up. Lastly, I'm happy to announce I've lost 14lbs! A lady usually doesn't reveal her weight... so that will remain a secret. Although that isn't the overall goal, it's a perk for motivating me to continue this road I'm on. The routine I've formed for myself seems to be working for me and the others surrounding me. Here's to a rejuvenated me and accomplishing goals...

Oh yeah! Side Note: I GOT THE JOB!!! I start my new journey on October 28th at Banner Ironwood Medical Center in San Tan Valley, Arizona. Woot woot to no more long commutes! (If you don't know what I'm talking about... read at my previous blogs).

<3 Peace!

Jeepers Creepers on the Home Front!

This morning I woke up, put my walking clothes on, leash in hand- Sparty knew it knew it was time to go outside as he waited by the front door in his excited little way as if to say YAYYYYYYY! Sleepily, I clipped on his leash and away we went into the early morning darkness for our 2.5 mile workout. I like to take him with me because it makes me feel safer and he motivates me. We walked around our block first as a warm-up, usually adds up to a half mile. Then, on the "big stretch" towards the community pool and back. Some mornings I'll jog this stretch but some I'll continue walking briskly. On our way, I've marked mental mile-markers to mentally tell me... "don't give up- you're almost there!" As we approached our first one, I felt a sense of achievement, like I just had to meet the next one. The weather was nice and cool. After all, it is officially Fall. In Arizona, this is the only part of the day you can actually feel and enjoy it though, otherwise... too hot during the sunlit hours. As we arrived to our second mile-maker, Spartacus (aka Sparty, my American Bulldog), started to hesitate in moving forward and started to act strange. Mind you, there isn't much street light on this road. I strained to see what was ahead, squinting my eyes. Faintly, I could see this form laying on the ground, halfway into the sidewalk from the bushes. My heart jumped and panicked on the inside. The caregiver inside of me called out to him, asking if he was okay. I heard no response. Immediately, I walked quickly out of the darkened area and near the closest intersection lighted by a street light. This is where I called 911. Thoughts started flooding my mind, realizing I was the only one that could be seen on the street and I didn't know if this person could wake up disoriented and attack me. The dispatcher was quick to send a few sheriffs cars to the location and stayed on the phone until they arrived to ease my panic. Soon I saw two sheriff cars zoom past me and the third sheriff car saw me as I was flagging them down. Later, an SUV sheriff arrived as well. They asked me where he was as I pointed them in the general direction. To my surprise, the sheriffs were able to get a response from the young man and began identifying him. The man was a young, Caucasian individual who seemed to be beaten. I overheard the cops ask him if he had been raped as his pants were pulled down to mid thigh, boxers at the waist for no exposure. Then, the cops asked if I wanted to pass. Without delay, I was on my way! I looked down at Sparty and treated him for the good job he did. Even though we only made it halfway, I felt that was enough excitement for out morning workout. On our way home, I saw an ambulance and a fire truck speed down the way. What an experience :) Glad I had my phone and my dog with me. By the way... Good Morning everyone!

Interviews and Child-like Bliss

Being put on the spot has always been one of my downfalls. I feel the embarrassment of being pin-pointed and my face start to turn beat red. All of a sudden my thoughts start to go blank. Call it Social Anxiety if you will. Why do I bring this up? I had an interview yesterday! As much as I prepared by going over a few potential questions that may be asked, printing out my resume and credentials, and making myself look presentable... I couldn't help my heart fluttering at the very thought of being one-on-one with a potential opportunity (even though I REALLY want it). I have the personality, knowledge and experience to prove I am more than qualified for the position. When it comes to interviewing, my nerves go buck-wild! I've always been a shy person until my shell is cracked and then I can't shut up! The manager interviewing me was very down-to-earth, smart and seems to be a great potential boss. The rapport is had with her staff members during the initial tour was kind and caring in a professional way, much like the  great work family I'm coming from. Seeing to compassion made the nervousness ease. The facility was built much like one of our other sister facilities. Everything is brand-spankin' new with the set up for potential growth in the future. This facility intrigues me because I can learn and grow just like it will as the community grows.
I should know by Friday if I landed the position- crossing my fingers!

On another note, I visited my sister and my youngest baby nephew yesterday! Devon is getting so big! His little features have developed so much in the 3 months he has been on this Earth. He's my little chunky-monkey, pooka-butt. I was able to get alot of face time with him. I fed him, burped him, rocked him and held him. He was adorable! He's laughed, cooed and fussed. He's a good baby. I am looking forward to watching him when my sister has to return to work. Our visit was precious. I always love hanging out with my older sister, Lisa. Along with my mother, she has always been a very supportive, driving force behind me and my life decisions. They are my angels and two of my true best friends from birth.

Retro Blogger Re-born into Technolnolgy and Positive Changes

Hello! I have been "personally blogging" so to say, since 2006. I guess I was just too shy to openly come out with it and just say it was a plain out blog until now (haha). So welcome to the inside world of all that is me. Take me or leave me. I'm optimistic, quirky, fun-loving and ever changing so this should be an interesting ride. I've been inspired to make this public, simply because this is the way I can openly share my thoughts and views with everyone instead of bottling them all inside (especially when I work crazy hours- as I often do in the Winter months- that's another story). So bare with me as I slowly bring you all up to speed through my blogs.

Lately, my boyfriend (also known as The/ My Boy) and I have been starting the house buying process! Exciting, right?! Yeah~ nail biting- more like it! Not that it isn't a step in the right direction, but there has been a "process" to everything. Who ever put that "picture perfect" image for buying a home- I kick you :) First, I've been working on repairing some blemishes on my credit in order to pre-qualify from the lender I've been working with. From a previous experience in the process with another person, I learned not to get my hopes up and take it as it comes. I've patiently awaited the day to hear the word that I pre-qualify and that day came the last week of September. First thought~ Wowser THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING! I immediately texted my 3 top people: my mom, my sister and my boyfriend to share the news. I've since then mentioned the good news to a few more people. The search is on. We're interested in buying either in Miami, Arizona (small antiquing/mining town) or Queen Creek, Arizona (small farming town)- both small towns with a great family outlook on the simple way of life. I cherished an older house we saw in Miami, Arizona- a 2 bedroom/ 1 bath cottage with a cute front yard complete with a tire swing, outdoor storage facilities, parking and an alley access. It was the cutest little home and I could just imagine making our own during the viewing with the realtor. It was built in the 60's so it needs a new roof, electrical upgrading and could use a carpet removal so the natural hardwood floors can shine through. Truly a diamond just waiting to be shined up. With needing repairs, I would have to raise my credit score to be qualified for the specific type of loan. Fingers crossed it doesn't sell between now and then... besides it's been on the market for a year. In the event that it does, we'll keep searching. The goal is to take advantage of the great prices that are out there right now. As a first-time home buyer, I'm anxious but patience and time will tell.

School is another story, I have slowly worked on the classes needed to be qualified to enter the nursing program with Maricopa Community Colleges and I have them all finished- including a few co-requisites as well. I let it go of going back to school for so long because of those "little bumps in the road" and I lost sight in what was important so me to be successful in life. With a swift kick in the butt from my mother, I hopped back on the wagon. I renewed my Fingerprint card in July and filled in the application but I need to re-take the HESI A2 nursing entrance exam due to recent changes in acceptable scoring required to get into the program. My old score doesn't count. I'm nervous about leaping into taking the test- major test anxiety. Lord help me to continue good study habits and do well on my test! Once I get going, I'm gone... it's just getting going.

My boy and I have been concert junkies as of late! 2 day festival called Desert Uprising at Ashley Home store Pavilion and two days later we saw Seether at the Marquee Theatre. Desert Uprising was fun- not the best outdoor concert I've been to but entertaining, nonetheless. The first day we arrived at 2pm. Walking around, we saw alot of "interesting" or just plain out freaky styles the youth of today had concocked. I must say, I admired the pin up and girlie styles but could go without the blood, gore, stage make up and S&M looks. The day kind of drug on until night fall when the two head lining act were on: Marilyn Manson and Rob Zombie. Rob Zombie rocked the show and rarely disappoints as I've seen him twice before. Rob Zombie always uses old silver screen horror flicks as a back drop on stage along with awesome robots and pyrotectnics. Not to mention the mosh pit fires that were started right next to us on the lawn from crazy fans. Marilyn Manson, on the other hand, disappointed me! I saw the form of an artist I used to practically worship in middle school take the stage; he had gained alot of weight, the sound of the performance was low and often muffled, and there seemed to be an absence of the expected outrageous, shocking behavior I'd always heard of and seen on television. BuckCherry was pretty basic but decent- classic, simple rocker. The boys cousins, brother and co-worker were able to meet us there for the day. Desert Uprising: Day Two- we arrived right around 2pm again. This was the "Uproar Festival" part of the shaboodle. From the moment we walked in til the moment we walked out- there was wall to wall action. The boy waited in line to meet POD and get a poster/CD signing while his cousins and I sipped on free Rockstar (I rarely drink energy drinks- only because it was free and cheaper than $5 water!). I got some pretty phenomenal pictures of the boy and the band. Next, we saw Fozzy- with front man Chris Jericho from WWE. Surprisingly, they rocked! We were practically in the front row (protected by my "bodyguards", consisting of the boys) with the exception of a petite girl in front of me with not so great smelling body odor- putting that as mildly as possible. Afterward, we got signings from Candlelight Red. Then, we headed over to the main stage. On the way, we saw my dream car- 1966 Mustang only this one was grey... mine would be a sparkly midnight blue with black racing stripes and black leather interior with a T-top... just a dream. The headliners this day were Staind, Godsmack and Shinedown. Staind, who I've seen once before, didn't disappoint. The smooth way they went from heavy to acoustic rock made them unique and crowd pleasing. Godsmack was good as a performance but the fact that the lead singer was "too rockstar" to show up to the signings made me frown on this performance. Shinedown stole the show though... the lead singer really had a way of connecting with the crowd. They played one of the best remake versions of Lynard Skynard's Simple Man. Two days later, we saw Seether at the Marquee theatre in Tempe, Arizona with one of the boys co-workers. This was a small venue so were we able to wedge our way to the very front. Sick Puppies toured this show and I never realized they had a girl as a bassist. I completely admired the way this tiny framed girl could give such as remarkable presents and performance with their 3 man crew. Loved her! Seether was exceptionally impressive as expected. We were in the first row, against the barrier. It was like we were in a trance when they took stage... it was ThAt GoOd! All in all, pure awesomeness! Looking forward to seeing Korn at the state fair later this month.



Speaking of looking forward to upcoming things... last month I contacted a long, lost brother through facebook. I have never met him and went out on a whim just hoping it may have been him when I sent the text to the number I had got off of this profile narrow down by the little information I had gathered throughout the years with over overhearing conversations and sketchy information given to me by select relatives (wow... holy run-on sentence... can you tell I'm excited???). Long story, short... It was him!! Before his relationship with my mother, dad apparently had a girlfriend who was pregnant when they parted ways and he didn't know my brother existed until I was a sophomore in high school. My dad tried to contact him and was shut down and told not to attempt again. Therefore, I never knew my sibling, just of him. Curiosity killed the cat and I just had to know him... so Nancy Drew- I fOuNd HiM. Don't get me wrong, I have 2 other great siblings I was raised with (wouldn't trade them for the world) but I just had to know. After being in contact a few times and lots of catching up, he is coming to town the 14th of this month! So guess who gets to meet him??? This girl and her dad! I solely have technology advancement to thank for this union.

Let just say I've may or may not have put on a few pounds over the years since high school, 45 extra lingering burdens to be exact. I only have pure laziness and temptations from being a food junkie to blame. I packed on alot when I moved back to Arizona from New York during some pretty tough times... and so on and so fourth. Well I'm tired of not being about to fit in my clothes and it's time for those extra pounds to take a hike. I realize it doesn't happen over night but in moderation. In September, I trialed this plan I have for 2 weeks. In the 2 weeks, I lost 13 pounds. I cut out all the junk pretty much just water, tea/ coffee, meat, veggies and minimal fruit with Melba toast along with 1.5 mile jog and 3.5 mile speed walks daily. I was finally able to fit into a couple pairs of old jeans... with pudge but they zipped! I went off for 1 week and now its crunch time again. Not to mention, I have two 5k runs, Neon Splash Dash and Color Me Rad, and one 5k walk, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, coming up. This is a great way to train. I find myself having more energy, motivation and encouragement when I start to see those pounds shed off during daily weigh ins.

Lastly, I have great career news. Since moving to San Tan Valley, we've been battling gas prices during our 45 minute commute to work each morning. Since we carpool, the boy often makes two trips from the house to my job in order to drop me off and pick me up. That's an easy $20-$30 per day in gas depending on stops along the way- OUCH! Relief may be on the way. I have a transfer interview tomorrow morning at a sister hospital right here in San Tan Valley. I say this with bittersweet thoughts. As I get choked up about leaving the best job and staff I've ever had the pleasure of working with, I may be transferring if all goes well. I seek, not only a better commute, but room for growth in the company. As mentioned earlier, I plan on moving forward in nursing by going to school. Although I've been a Certified Nursing Assistant for nine years, upgrading to a Patient Care Tech will give me additional job responsibilities and experience that will be very beneficial in eventually pursuing a future Registered Nurse position with the company. The unit the position is offered on will broaden my experience as it seemed to be a "variety unit"  with different kinds of patients in a much smaller environment. I also think it would be great to be able to be employed there as the hospital grows over the years. I love working in small communities and watching them grow and flourish into something great, much like I have seen the Apache Junction area, Queen Creek area and Banner Baywood grow. Wish me Luck!!!

That's all for now!

Peace! <3