Ashley Skousen

Ants in my pants...

2010-05-24T10:23:00.000-06:00

I can't wait, I can't wait, I can't wait! Is it Wednesday yet? Oh, this is torture. I need it to be Wednesday right now!!!!

Think Thin

2010-05-19T09:27:00.000-06:00

I am in love with these bars. They make the perfect breakfast and actually keep me full until lunch. I have been using them for about two weeks and ran out on yesterday. I was starving by ten. Today I am feeling much better and still full. The peanut butter ones are the best.

Its gonna be magic....

2010-05-18T10:21:00.001-06:00

I know I am am broken record but this is all I can think about. Eight days until sweet paradise. I am beyond excited. Its just what the doctor ordered. And when I return the sisters will be here to commence the best summer ever. Its gonna be magic.

P.S. This is the celestial Hamoa beach. One of my favorite spots on earth.

For Real?

2010-05-13T08:15:00.001-06:00

Um, people this talented make me feel so uncreative and so unoriginal. This totally blew me out of the water. I found it on Tory Burch's blog. Check her out. She's classy. Apparently this was their Mothers Day display. The inspiration was a picture of her mother.

Treasures

2010-05-12T08:08:00.000-06:00

I found these little treasures on a cd my brother in law burned for me a few years ago. She is probably about 2 1/2 here and sooooo cute. I miss my tiny little girl. She is all grown up and baptized....How did this happen?

I loved her I kind of forgot how to smile stage.

She looks so stinkn cute in this pic with her cousin Caleb. I am so grateful for pictures and the way they help you not forget. :)

Big Plan

2010-05-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

So I was talking to Presley the other day and she wanted me in on her big plan. I of course was all about hearing this plan. She said," Mom I can't wait to turn sixteen." I then asked," Why? So you can drive?" She said," YES, and do you know the first thing I am going to do is? I am going to go and get my ears pierced!" I then laughed my head off. I love her scheming. I asked her what her Dad thought about this plan and she said," He said nothing. His jaw just dropped open." Then she asked,"Do you think I could really do it? Bella already has her ears pierced." I said," We shall see." I really plan on letting her choose when she is twelve. I just need to work on getting her Dad to chill out and get on board with my plan. She has wanted to have them pierced since she was about four. How long can this Mom hold out? I love my little chica and I love the way her little mind thinks. :)

2010-05-07T09:34:00.001-06:00

Happy Friday and Happy Mothers Day to all the lovely ladies out there. And a big Happy Mothers Day to the lady that birthed me! This video is so beautiful. Please take a few moments and enjoy all the lovelyness that is Nie Nie. She is such an inspiration. Watching this made me want to be a better Mom.

I did it!

2010-05-05T08:00:00.001-06:00

I finally did it! I took the plunge and became a real grown up and bought my very own lap top.

Can I tell you and am so happy to leave the world of pc's!

I was loaned a laptop from my parents and I hated it.

Really hated it.

It was sooo slow.

But now I have a lovely new MacBook.

Sigh. Squeal.Sigh.

The Dot

2010-05-04T10:10:00.001-06:00

Oh, how I miss her.

22 more days.

Its been over a month since I have seen her face.

I can't wait to squeeze, snuggle, and kiss her sweet cheeks.

I also can't wait to spend a week on the beach.

I might even finally try to surf. Oye!

2010-05-03T14:40:00.002-06:00

I have exciting updates! Stay tuned!

Snow

2010-04-22T08:48:00.000-06:00

This is how I feel about the snow right now. I am ready to attack! Someone please make it go away. It better not kill the apricot season yet again.

Am I Insane.....possibly

2010-04-21T10:58:00.000-06:00

I might be insane, but I toying with the idea of running a full marathon in September. My sister Britt is running one in October and apparently I have a competitive streak. I must not be out done. lol I have a few weeks to decide. I am going to run my 1/2 marathon on May 1st and then make the call.

Wedding Bells

2010-04-15T08:39:00.000-06:00

So my little sis Morgan is getting married. Which is so weird to me. She was like 10 when I got married. Ok, now I feel old. I digress....anyway.... The cogs in the sisters heads have been turning. We are thinking pink. Thats the color of choice for us bridesmaids. We are also thinking retro. I have my heart set on this little number. I also love this one and love that its the "Classic Ashley dress". I think its destiny. Check out the whole site. Stop Staring Clothing. I love the retro look. :)
P.S. I would like to take this time to brag that I picked out her wedding ring and she loves it! She is currently chilling in NC with her honey. As soon as she gets back I will get a good pic of the fancy little sucker.

2010-04-14T09:52:00.000-06:00

I got this watch last week and I love it. Its a heart rate monitor and it tells me how many calories I am burning. I don't know why I held out for so long. It really is helping take my fitness to a new level. Hello, when I see I burned 1000 calories in one session it makes me want to come back and rock it again!

I also got a Klean Kanteen cause I can be a bit of a health nut. I also adore it. Its all stainless steel. No BPAs which makes me feel so much better. And it really keeps the water tasting fresh. I like to rock the 40 oz. I say go big or go home. :) They also have a little baby sippy which is adorable.

2010-04-13T08:08:00.002-06:00

Can I tell you I love my tide bra bag? I do. It so easy to use and it really keeps you bra safe. Try it. You won't sorry.

2010-04-12T14:52:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday all. I am feeling like I need to pound it out this week at my favorite gym. That is how I deal with my baby being gone.

The gloves are coming off. Game on. On this weeks agenda. Spinning, treadmill, Zumba, weights, running, Zumba, and more running. I am going to feel.the.burn. Ouch.

2010-04-09T11:36:00.002-06:00

Happy Friday all! Have a great weekend. I think I see some karaoke in mine. :)

Jamie Oliver

2010-04-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

I know I have posted recently about how much I love GOOP but heck I do. And I feel fancy for just reading it. I will also admit I am a bit of a natural girl (I'll write more about that later) and Gwyneth Paltrow the author of said GOOP newsletter is too. Which also makes me feel a little fancy. Anyway this post is more about Jamie than Gwyneth so I will get on with it. In her most recent newsletter she has an interview with renowned British chef and uber cutie Jamie Oliver and his Food Revolution. Basically he is on a campaign to change to way we eat. Especially the food in our schools. I applaud Jamie and his brilliant efforts. Please take minute to check this stuff out. You won't be sorry at least I hope you won't and you might end up feeling a little fancy. ;)

Resolutions Update

2010-04-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

So I was talking to Pres on Monday night and she had a some news for me. Big news. Very big news for an eight year old. She told me she had won something. She has won $100! I know right! Bam! Resolution number four done. I couldn't believe it. I thought that one would never happen. Apparently Presley knows the "secret" and knows how to use it.
One of her neighbors there in Hana invited some of the neighborhood kids over for an Easter egg hunt on Sunday. Who ever found the silver egg won the $100 buckaroos. Presley decided she was going to hang back and not really participate but then one of the little girls there needed help and she was all about that. She only found three eggs in all. She was a little bummed she only got two pieces of candy. ha So lesson learned put your resolution out into the universe and help a small child and you will be there. I was a little concerned that she has taken that much money from someone. Then I learned that these kind folks had won the lottery and are now high rollers.
Does anyone find this story bizarre and unbelievable? But it really is true. Move to Hana and you will believe anything is possible.
The best part is when I asked her what she was going to do with the money she said,"I think I am going to give it to the church or the poor. What do you think Mom?" So cute. I then explained to her that she could do both and keep a some for herself too. Dan told me that he had argued about this the day before with her because she couldn't understand that the bill could be broken up into smaller bills. Oh, the words of a wise Mother trumped her Dad again. ha ha

Jeans vs Leggings

2010-04-06T08:00:00.003-06:00

I have to say it. I don't like jeans. Don't get me wrong I love the look of jeans its the feel of jeans I hate. The just feel so restrictive to me. I however love leggings. I could live in them. So when I found jean leggings I was all about trying them on. Sold. I loved them. Plus they were on sale and girls love a sale. I chose black over blue but I might have to go back and give them a try. I couldn't find a good pic of the black ones. Hence the pic of blue. I found the HUE brand at my local Nordstom in the hosiery department.
So in the battle of jeans and leggings.....leggings win hands down for me.
But there is a time and a place and I am sure if I looked hard enough, long enough, and spent enough money I could find that comfy cute pair of jeans.

Your thoughts ladies?

Resolutions

2010-04-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Resolutions, we all have them. One of mine was a goal to run a half marathon and that is coming up soon. I didn't realize even Presley had some. It is quite cute actually. Her teacher had her write 2010 and under each number was a resolution. Are you ready for them? I was dying when I first read them.
1. I am going to eat more fruits.
2. I am going to exercise.
3. I am going to read more.
4. I am going to make more money.
Apparently she listens to me more than I realize. This sounds like a 40 year old womans list not an eight year olds. The kicker for me was number four....really more money. I was unaware that she had made much last year. lol
Lets put it out there. What were some of your resolutions you have stuck with?

2010-04-02T08:00:00.001-06:00

Happy Friday! I just wanted to share a creepy picture of Presley while getting a "facial" from her aunties. Ha ha I love this chick. Have a great weekend.

AHHHMAZING

2010-04-01T14:01:00.000-06:00

Oh yes, I saw Michael Buble` in concert last night. Be still my beating heart. He is oh so dreamy. Swoon.

He was so ahhhmazing live. His voice ah his voice its like velvet or silk.

I definitely fell in love with him all over last night.

I was so lucky to score a ticket from my sis Morgan since she ran away to North Carolina to see her now fiancé . Lucky me! I ended up going with my Mom (she is 3rd from the left), my sis Kat (2nd from the left), my Aunt Venisa (4th from the left), and four cousins. We were running so late we didn't get a whole group picture and also because we weren't all seated together.

We started the night at The Cheesecake Factory which is always a good choice. I also already knew they had a sugar free cheesecake option and I was all about that. I splurged and had a virgin margarita and it was fantastic! Then it was off to all that Michael yummyness.

I am so bushed from being sick and staying up late but it was so great! If you have the chance to go....GO! You won't regret it.

Babycakes Yum

2010-03-31T09:00:00.006-06:00

I think I died and went to heaven and it is dark chocolate and dense and fudgey. I saw a plaque in a chocolate shop that said "If there is no chocolate in Heaven, I don't want be there" I have to say I completely agree. I love chocolate. LOVE.IT. I have been shunning wheat and sugar once again due to my allergies. This really cuts into my chocolate affair. We need each other. We love each other. We might be star-crossed lovers. Is that over the top? Whatever....
Uggg its not fun.at.all.
The End.
But I heard about a vegan, gluten free, mostly sugar free cookbook over at GOOP. I love GOOP! Anyway the cookbook is Babycakes. I love it. I have made the banana bread a few times and it the best banana bread ever. I have also made the chocolate cupcakes and I kid you not they are the bomb! So good. I have eaten at least 8-9 but who cares they're healthy. Stop judging me. I have been clean for 6 weeks. I needed a fix. If you have allergies you need this cookbook. Or if you want to gorge on delicious healthy treats to your hearts content, you need this book. Plus she has testimonials from famous peoples who have allergies and love her stuff and that will make you feel totally fabulous and part of some exclusive club. I can't wait to try more of the recipes.
P.S. Be fore warned....I tried the frosting and was not in love but the cupcakes are so good I don't care.

Wishing

2010-03-30T09:00:00.003-06:00

Oh, I would just die to have a closet like this. Organized to the T and soooo beautiful. Maybe one day...

Dads, Selfishness, Oceans, and the Me Show...

2010-03-29T09:55:00.001-06:00

About 75% of the time I can appreciate that fact that Daniel lives an ocean away from me. I enjoy the space. He is intense. And I am not going lie I am selfish. I like Presley all to myself and I can pretend all is well and I don't have to share her. Sooner or later reality rears its ugly little head and I have to ship my favorite little person across an ocean and share her with her Dad. Of course I know the importance of Presley seeing her Dad and having a good relationship with him and vice versa. I am just speaking totally selfishly right now. Only my side of the story. Its my life, my blog, its about me.
Unfortunately its that time again. She left about a week and a half ago. I miss her. I hate it. I try to make the best out of it. The more crap I fill my day with them less time I have to miss her (in therory). I spend a lot of time exercising. I am training for a 1/2 marathon. I am trying to read like crazy, clean and organize my room, and get some sort of life plan (which I am actually making headway and a decision). At the end of the day I still miss her. Its makes me cry. I miss her smile. Her cuddles. The way she gets as close as she possibly can to me while she is sleeping. The way she smells after running around outside. I even miss her crazy obnoxiousness when 9 pm hits.
I spoke to her last night and she sang me an Opera song she wrote. The lyrics were: Mommy I love you so very much. It made my heart smile and this time away from her more bearable. She promised she would sing it for me the next time we talk. I might make her sing it every time we talk.

Ramblings

2010-03-03T10:06:00.001-07:00

When I was eighteen and out of high school (ok so I was never very good at school attendance) I would wake up every morning around 8:30-9:30. Then I would do my 30 min. of TaeBo and settle down to watch my Martha Stewart . I was reflecting on this this morning and I realized I acted like a forty year old woman. Ha ha But I have fond memories of those days. It was much better that waking up at the crack on dawn to put my nose to the grind stone. Ah to be eighteen acting like a forty year old woman again. And to be back to the days were 30 min. of cardio was enough.

American Nutrition

2010-02-17T09:12:00.001-07:00

This clip is a bit lengthy (20 min) but well worth hearing Jamie Oliver talk about the nutrition in America and mainly in Americas schools. I am on board with him. I think the nutrition is super important. I find it a bit fascinating. After watching this it made me feel good inside that I always pack a lunch for Pres.

2010-02-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

My family is weird and I love it. This what we do. Document really stupid silly pee your pants behavior. I probably peed my pants while taking this pic at my sister Maison's 11th bday celebration.
Fact: Other than wedding formals my family has NO family pics. This is something that needs to be fixed.

Love em

2010-02-12T10:06:00.003-07:00

I found the sweetest vintage valentines ever. I got them at Borders. Go figure. Let me tell you these were old school. I had to cut and paste the envelopes together. That old school. But it was fun and it is Presley's first full blown school valentines event so we went all out.

I seriously am in love with these.

Yes we made these in our bed. Don't hate. Its my favorite place.
So cozy.

  I was surprised that she was letting snap away without and complaint.
   (she is such a diva)
   and then
The spell was broken. Bummer. As you can see she is saying in a very sassy manor....
   Moooooom stooooooop!!!!

Getting your pic taken is so hard and annoying.

She then complained of a headache. So I finished them out. She then went to see her Nana how gave her a piece of chocolate and she was magically cured. She said, "Mom chocolate is medicine. I promise. I feel so much better now." Haha atta girl.

P.S. Notice the P90X box? I love this box. It comes in handy so often.

Pity party for one please.....

2010-02-10T11:08:00.000-07:00

I am having one of those days were nothing is seeming to go right. I over slept. Fought with Pres. Had to work. Currently working. Bored out of my mind. Mad at the world and blah, blah, blah, blah.
I am throwing myself and pity party today and I am the only one invite. Sorry peeps.

2010-02-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

Its that time again. Valentines day is so cute. Presley is having a Vday party in her class and I am itching to find some sweet vintage vallies. Isn't this valentine just the cutest. Wish me luck on my search. And let us commence our week of L.O.V.E.

2010-02-04T09:40:00.001-07:00

Prayer
Please take a minute to watch this. So true and inspiring. Happy Thursday. :)

2010-02-03T08:23:00.003-07:00

I would love to have one of these to read and lounge on. It would be just delicious.

Side note: I love the GOOP website and this recipe looks yummy and she is so pretty.

2010-01-29T12:02:00.001-07:00

Want to win a trip to Seattle? Go here.
By the way you should check out the birth story photos while you are there. Amazing!

2010-01-29T10:48:00.000-07:00

Did you ever hide in the back of the car when your Mom told that you couldn't go? And then pop out and make her super mad? I know I did.... My poor Mom probably just wanted some "alone" time. Now that I am a Mom I can imagine her frustration. Sorry Mom.

Fact..

2010-01-28T11:45:00.000-07:00

Fact: Presley has never had a sickness that has required treatment from a doctor (which I am grateful for everyday). That being said..... When she is sick she is AWFUL. She doesn't sleep. SHE WILL NOT SLEEP. She will however lay on the couch, bed, floor, stairs, any where really and proceed to whine and moan. She will get up at 7 am and she WON'T surrender to sleep until 10 pm or later. This is one of the reasons I am so grateful that she has never been really sick. I don't want to even imagine what she would be like if she was really in pain. Good luck giving birth sweetheart.

I love her so much but she is pushing me to my limit right now. Serenity now!!!! I should note that she is not sick right now. It was just a random memory that surfaced.

Also I am missing Hawaii like crazy (hence the pic). I need the beach, the waves, the warmth... I need it all. Anyone want to sponsor me?

On a totally unrelated note....this made me laugh for 3 min.....are they for real?

2010-01-27T11:17:00.001-07:00

Have I ever told you she is amazing.....well she is....

Happy....

2010-01-25T11:33:00.001-07:00

I know its late but who cares? Right? Because I am late on blogging this and because I think she is so cute and well because I feel like it I am going to post the many faces of Presley's bday celebration. She really makes some funny faces and has some interesting reactions. This one above is her birthday cheese face. I love her silly self.

This one is the can't we stop taking pics and start opening these presents I have been waiting all day for? Well yes we can.

This face is this box is pretty small it better be good.

And it was. Her Auntie Morgan got her a locket she has been waiting for ages. We have yet to put any pics in it.

This is the can you please stop choking me with this locket I am trying to open more mediocre presents face?

Woohoo for Bdays! I am not a big fan of spoiling kids with endless amounts of presents. I keep it short sweet and to the point. She also got some pots and pans, headbands, lip gloss, play makeup, and a few other things from her Aunties and Grandparents.

I love her profile. I am that Mom that stares at her child with wonder and amazement that I made something so pretty. Ok, I know that God has everything to do with and not me but that is a technicality people. ;)

We topped the night off with a little chocolate cake she was very happy. She makes 8 look good.

And lastly what is a party with out a little snuggle pic with your Mom. I did bare you its the least you can give me. lol

My babe

2010-01-25T11:10:00.001-07:00

I think this is possibly my favorite picture of Presley ever. My brother in law took it while he was visiting us in Laie, Hawaii. I can't remember the name of the little pizza shack it was taken at but it was down near Sunset beach. She was about 2 1/2 here. So cute and so camera shy. Seriously she had a real problem with cameras. She would only let me take her pic and sometimes her Dad and Uncle Dave. He bribed her with 3 skittles (which was normally a big no no for me) and I am so glad he did. So precious. I need to have this printed on canvas.

She did it

2010-01-19T11:59:00.002-07:00

Blast....Its been to long since I last posted and so much has happened. So I thought I would start with my favorite part.

My daughter turned 8 and got baptized to become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

I will admit I was kind of sad about this day at first and I will tell you why. I really no longer had a baby. I mean I know she has been growing up but this was a total life milestone for her. She is in senior Primary know and she goes to Achievement Days.

I was slightly freaking out the whole time and then when it finally happened it was so nice. We were able to get special permission to have Dan baptize her before he left to go back to Hawaii. With the holidays I didn't even get the for sure go ahead until the morning of. Luckily most of the family and a few friends were able to make it.

Now for the best part of the story. So I wasn't the only one freaking out. Presley had been off and on having moments of stress about being the center of attention and getting a blessing. That was another reason for me to stress. When she makes up her mind it can be a definite challenge to get her to back down.

So we get to the church and start getting arranged to pick out a dress to wear and she HATED them all. Finally I just pick one that looks as close to her size as possible. We proceed to go into the changing room where she had a break down. I pulled her Dad in and we talked about it. The best part was that she was freaking out about the dress. She looked at me and said, "I am not going out there wearing that" as she threw her pointed finger at it. I was dying I had to turn around so she didn't see me laughing.

Hence the pouty face in the pic above.

I made her get in the dress and she was trying to hide from everyone and would barely take a picture. Then we start the service and she is crying during the song and the prayer and I am shaking with laughter b/c its all about this "terrible dress".

Then it came time to get into the font. She looked so tiny and so grown up at the same time. It all happened so fast. Bam it was over and done.

And now we see the after. She was so happy. Everything went perfectly. It was so beautiful.

She had her confirmation blessing and she realized it was a nice thing.

She felt special and very happy.

Here's the fam.

And my favorite pic of the night.

I love my girl.

She is growing up but I can handle it.

At least I hope so.

I will probably be in tears about it next week. lol

God is Good

2010-01-08T09:43:00.001-07:00

This guy is the tops! He is so good to me even when I don't deserve it. He is always there for me.

Sadness

2010-01-07T11:45:00.002-07:00

I want to express my love to my dear friend Natalie. God bless you and your family in your hour of need.
Natalie and her husband Richie lost there 2 month old son this morning.

I also want to express my love to my second family the Mortimer's. God bless you as well.
The Mortimer's lost there beloved Grandma this morning.

2009-12-15T08:42:00.001-07:00

If I wouldn't break my neck I would love to own these.

P.S. I tried them on and I would definitely break my neck.

Fat Cats...woot woot

2009-12-11T10:18:00.016-07:00

My long lost Uncle, Aunt and assorted cousins came up for Thanksgiving and it was a blast. They are the family I always wanted and never knew I had. My cousin Tyler loves to bowl so we headed out to Fat Cats and proceeded to have a blast.

It wouldn't be a Hopkins family outing without one on more of us making fools of ourselves.
Please tell me why weird guys at bowling alleys love me?

Maybe its my come hither stare....lol

Good times! I miss everyone so much and kudos to Tyler for beating everyone hands down.

2009-12-09T09:46:00.001-07:00

I am in the home stretch. She will be home next Wed. and I can barely contain my excitement. Right now I am grateful for pictures. At least I get to look at her everyday. She is my favorite subject to shoot. I want her home now!

Turks

2009-12-07T08:57:00.003-07:00

As beautiful as the smoked turkey turned out I can't get down with putting gravy on it (which is a must). So I made my parents roast one. Actually they volunteered. My parents are pretty good with my don't like list. This list includes: mayo, bacon, sausage, ham, hot dogs (all pork products for that matter), american cheese, smoked prime rib (really the oven is the way to go), and velveta (hate it with a passion). Side note I do like smoked turkey just not on Thanksgiving. Are you still reading this? I apologize I just had to get that off my chest.

Landon...

2009-12-04T11:08:00.000-07:00

This little guy is so silly. He loves guns and fighting and he says the funniest things. He hates it when his Mom wears a pony tail. He calls her Taylor when she does and says she's mean. lol He also has the lowest childs' voice I have ever heard. I can't wait to see what puberty does to it. ha ha

So Sweet....

2009-12-03T14:47:00.002-07:00

How sweet is my bro-in-law! Richard knows (as I am sure everyone else) that I have been missing my girl like crazy and he posted this pic on facebook for me. So sweet. Its back from 2007 and she looks so tiny and precious. This totally made my day! I have officially started a count down and we have 14 days to go!

Audrey Marie

2009-12-03T10:47:00.004-07:00

I love my Audrey Marie. She is teensy with a teeny tiny voice and she prances when she runs. She still has baby soft skin and hair which is so sweet. Its a good thing I have nieces and nephews to love on while Presley is away. Audrey gives the sweetest hugs and kisses. I love that girl!

P.S. Did I tell you I am in love with my new camera? Well I am. We are getting really serious.

Coterie Giveaway

2009-12-02T12:29:00.001-07:00

Check out the Shade lounge pant giveaway over at The Coterie!

Love Her!

2009-11-24T08:46:00.002-07:00

Britt came for a few short days and it was just a cruel joke. We had so much fun and packed all that we could into four days. This included New Moon 3 times, The Blideside, The Cheesecake Factory, Guitar Hero, and a little In and Out. Why does she have to live so far away? She left yesterday and I am so sad. We need to start planning another trip pronto.

Floored.....

2009-11-12T09:22:00.007-07:00

I never thought it would happen. So, Presley calls me yesterday and asks me for her Auntie Britt's number. Now I am assuming she wanted to call her Auntie but she says, " I miss Bella. " I was floored and will explain why. For so long Presley was so jealous of Bella. Anytime I would hug Bella or laugh at something funny she did Presley would say, " You love Bella more than me. " The funniest part about that is that I never really gave Bella that much special attention. If there was anyone to be jealous of it would have been Leila. I love that girl to bits and would steal if I could. But oddly enough Presley loves Leila to death and never had a problem with her. She also used to freak out when I would give Bella her hand me downs. It was ridiculous and now she looks through her stuff and says, " Mom, can I give this to Bella? " My little girl is growing up and not so crazy anymore. It gave me the warm fuzzies. I must be doing something right. Lol, it probably has nothing to do with me at all. :)

2009-11-07T15:38:00.002-07:00

Happy Saturday all. I made Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Carmel Glaze today. Yum. Check out my food blog for the details and the recipe.

Ramblings...

2009-11-03T11:17:00.002-07:00

I am thinking of changing my middle name to something that starts with an S. Just so my initials would be ASS. I think I would get more respect. That's all.

Yum!

2009-11-03T10:38:00.004-07:00

Sometimes a girl just needs some sushi. Yum!

Love it....

2009-10-29T10:45:00.002-06:00

I would like to introduce you to Clarsonic. The Clarsonic is a skin cleansing tool with a brush head that spins and sends out a sonic pulse to get deeper cleansing. Let me tell you I am a skeptic. I have tried just about everything out there and I love this. Its so easy to use. It washes your face for you. I have been using this for a couple of months and have seen a major improvement in my skin. I have also been using the M2 Skin Refinisher which I am also in love with. This is also a shout out to my Mom for making me try something new again.

First off...

2009-10-22T10:38:00.006-06:00

So after I got my camera I just had to make a cute strap. In fact I couldn't rest or focus until I did. So here it is. I think I might make a couple more so I can switch them out whenever I get the urge. You know cause that's what girls do and variety is the spice of life. It was pretty simple and inexpensive as well. I found the instructions here. So I have been playing around and can't wait until I really get the hang of it all.

Presenting.....

2009-10-21T08:22:00.003-06:00

Presenting (drum roll please)....Presley's Halloween costume. Which I made ( cough with minimal help from my Mom cough). I am loving the way it turned out. I have to admit that there were times I wanted to rip it to pieces but alas we both made it through. What is she one might ask? She is any freakn' princess she wants to be. All I know is that is done and fabulous.

I seriously loves this picture of her sweet little face.

Oh how she loves to pose. Don't ask me what she is doing. I am sure she thought it was a very artistic pose.

I had to work hard to get this smile. She prefers to model with a serious face.

I love her little feet. If you can't tell I love just about everything about her.

You might be wondering why she is wearing a white undershirt. The explanation is she is obsessed with them. She is always wearing either and tank top or an undershirt. The dress it a titch low so I decided I would comply with her audacious request.

As you can tell I am a very proud Momma and don't plan on changing. I can't wait until she gets back so I can squeeze her.

Love it?

2009-10-20T08:58:00.002-06:00

Do I love sewing? I would have to say yes and no. I love the finished product and the sense of accomplishment. Let's face it I also like the bragging rights. Ok, I love the bragging rights. Just a week or so ago I finished Presley's costume. I got ambitious and went with a difficult pattern and I am quite happy with the out come. I have also started my costume. I am going to be Cleopatra and it looks like I have two parties to wear it to so far. Cheers to sewing and a double cheers for bragging rights!

Excitment!

2009-10-19T11:36:00.002-06:00

I have an exciting announcement. After about a year I have finally made the plunge and ordered my camera. It's a Canon Rebel T1i! It has 15.1 mega pixels and full HD video. I am so excited. Hopefully it gets here by Wednesday. Until then I will be waiting on baited breath.

Sneak Peek...

2009-10-14T11:16:00.001-06:00

I just love this little face. This is a sneak peek of our pre Halloween
shoot. I will be shamelessly bragging about her and my skills very soon. So stayed tuned.

I'm sooooo.....

2009-10-13T10:10:00.004-06:00

I'm so sad. I miss my girl. It's only been a week and I am dying. Only two more months to go. :( On a lighter note. I did get some film developed and found this pic. She insisted that I take it just like this. She thinks she is such a model. I took some Halloween pics before she left which I will post soon. Every time I see her like this it makes me laugh and I envision her Auntie Britt rolling her eyes and saying oh, goll.

Wake up Call...

2009-10-12T11:46:00.002-06:00

While searching for my local spin class schedule I found this article. I am seriously rethinking the chili fries I splurged on. Yikes!

Shabby Apple Giveaway

2009-10-07T10:42:00.002-06:00

Everyone run over to The Coterie and enter the Shabby Apple Dress Giveway before Thursday night and you could win one of their fabulous dresses! Good luck!

2009-09-24T10:52:00.004-06:00

I recently got the The Best Camera app for my iPhone. I have been having so much fun with it. I am so in love with my phone I could marry it. I used to walk around without the internet and think I was fine. My iPhone changed my life. If I wrote music I would write a song about. If I could paint I would paint its portrait. Oh, wait I can paint. I smell my next project. ;) Anyway I love my new app. Here is a taste of what I have been playing around with.

I love the Loser...

2009-09-14T11:39:00.005-06:00

In honor of the new season of The Biggest Loser (which starts tomorrow). I got Jillian Michaels book Making The Cut and by doing so I am giving her the next 30 days of my life to kick my butt. I am pumped. I actually can't wait to get to the gym today!

** Update..... It's been 2 days and I am sooooo sore. This lady knows what she is talking about.

Deep Thoughts

2009-09-14T09:25:00.002-06:00

I recently received a calling at church. Along with that came a blessing. In said blessing I was reminded that I can be a bit to judgmental. As I was researching my little problem I found this great talk from one of my favorite Apostle. I loved/love Elder Wirthlin. I know Heavenly Father loves me because he always reminds me I can do better whether I like it or not. Needless to say I have some work to do.

My Peeps...

2009-09-11T12:32:00.003-06:00

I miss these peeps so much. They ran away to to North Carolina much to my dismay. I spent almost all summer and all Feb. with them and it just wasn't enough. My sister is my best friend and I want her back.

Truth be told I am happy for them. I will just be missing them like crazy until we meet again.

It's my Birthday!!!!

2009-09-09T09:53:00.003-06:00

I am officially 29 years young/old. Oh, who cares. I am one year closer to the dreaded 30. I will be lazing about today and getting a pedicure. I have never been one for a big party so I will be keepn' it real with my fam and a few friends. Please feel free to send a cupcake like this at any time.

**Update...I have a wonderful birthday. Thank you to my Mom, Jules, and Annabanana for all the birthday fun!**

Zoo Wahooo

2009-08-28T09:56:00.001-06:00

I hope you all have a splendid weekend. I believe we will be spending part of ours at the Hogle Zoo. I hear they have a baby elephant. I can't wait to see it.

Love it.....

2009-08-27T11:33:00.002-06:00

Here is a little Thursday treat for you. I love YouTube.

Awwwww

2009-08-26T11:48:00.003-06:00

I really, really, really want this print. I think it would look so sweet in my room. I found it at Belle and Boo. I am in love with pretty much everything there. This print is $35 pounds. Anna how much is that in dollars?

I love me some TV...

2009-08-25T10:49:00.005-06:00

Ok, I will admit it. I love me some television. I could probably spend most of my life watching. I do however posses a small amount of self control and only watch about a 1/4 of what I want to. Oh, how I miss my tivo. Anyway... I wanted to share with you my love of these two fabulous shows. If you aren't already watching them you are missing out. Drop Dead Diva. Love it. Its new and soooooo cute and funny. I can't wait to see how the season plays out. You can find it on Lifetime. Right now you can catch up on all the Drop Dead Diva deliciousness on, On Demand, under tv series.
Next up we have Ruby. Ruby, Ruby, Ruby she is the sweetest lady on earth. You can't help but cheer for her. Ruby is about a well Ruby and her journey through weightloss. I find this show so interesting and entertaining. I can't wait to see what we uncover in her past (she can't remember most of her childhood). This is her 2nd season and unfortunately I am not sure how you would catch up. But watch anyway. You can find Ruby on the Style network (its on of my favorite stations).

We also have The Biggest Loser starting soon. Ok, I love weightloss/transformatin shows. I have been known to watch workout videos. I am a weirdy, so what.

School....

2009-08-21T10:51:00.002-06:00

So Presley had her first day of school yesterday. It didn't turn out so well. To put it mildly she hates it. I hope she can grow out of this soon. Her school has been great and we have a plan. I am crossing my fingers. She can be a bit stubborn.

Yes Please

2009-07-27T13:17:00.003-06:00

Heather over at The Coterie has a giveaway with this awesome necklace. I would like an A in coral. I am loving it. Make sure you enter by Thursday!

Country Dancing = Swooning

2009-07-16T09:18:00.002-06:00

My gorgeous friend Anna suggested that we go country dancing last Saturday. I agreed to go. I thought what the heck. Whats the worst thing that could happen? Maybe I wouldn't get asked to dance. So we arrived and I got super nervous because I had not ever done this style of dancing. However my fears were quickly put to rest after the first guy asked me to dance. The guys were super nice and totally willing to teach me. Now here comes the swooning part. I ended up dancing most of the night with this awesome, cute, nice, and terrific dancer! The best part is that I went last night as well and it happened again. I had such an amazing time both nights. Just in case you are wondering....yes he did ask for my number and I am in a fully blown swoon as we speak!

Yippppeee

2009-07-15T10:58:00.002-06:00

"Yipppeee", she exclaiming with girlish glee on the arrival of her very one iPhone! Yes, it came and a lot faster than I thought it would. I love it soooo much and fully believe that it will solve all of my problems!

Breaking News...

2009-07-10T09:26:00.003-06:00

Ok, so I have gloated to most of you already but I am just so excited! I am getting and iphone (no you are not imaging me yelling that at you)! I finally convinced my Dad/boss that the second company I work for (for free!!!!) needed to get me an iphone. After months of endless begging I whined my way into one. I also need to send a shout out to my sis Britt for helping put the last nail in the coffin! So in 6-9 business days I will be the proud owner of a white iphone (yes I am yelling again and doing a jig)! I already got a really cute pink cover for it!

Happy Bday America!

2009-07-04T06:00:00.002-06:00

Dear America,

Could you rock any harder? Well, yes but thats for another day. Anyway I have to say I love you. I love your face and all the freedom that you bring. I wouldn't want to live any where else. I can't wait to celebrate your birthday bright and early with a run in your honor (10k thank you very much) followed with much partying, laughter, bbqing, and wrapping it up with some awesome fire works. Happy Birthday! I love you always.

XOXOX,
Ash

Giveaway!

2009-07-01T08:57:00.004-06:00

These are very pretty. You should enter win them over on Pick&Kicks.

For Real?

2009-06-30T09:55:00.001-06:00

Kudos to him for pulling this off. If it were me I think I would have to kill him.

You know....

2009-06-22T11:30:00.001-06:00

You know Monday is probably my least favorite day of the week and I hate it even more when I get a migraine. I hate it even more when I have to work through said migraine. All I want to do is chill at the pool and take it easy. Now we will have to see if this day complies with my wishes.

My Little Mermaid

2009-06-12T16:58:00.004-06:00

All she wanted at the beach was to bury me in the sand and make me a mermaid but when we got there she wanted to go first and of course she won. I love her distressed look in the first picture.

Ain't she sweet.....

2009-06-11T23:35:00.006-06:00

Today was such a great day. We woke up and went on a walk . We got rained on but I am pretending that didn't happen. We had freshly picked papaya for breakfast and headed out to the beach. Presley did not want to cooperate and take a cute picture and since I love her so much I just went with the flow.

Here she is hiding from the paparazzi. They follow her everywhere. Its such a shame. She just wants to live a normal life people.

And here is the beach we park our tushies on. I have said before and I will say it again. I love this beach sooooo much. I love the cows in Hana it just makes it so picturesque.

Leaving.....

2009-06-09T21:59:00.001-06:00

I felt like this day would never come but here it is. I am leaving tomorrow for my beloved Hawaii to pick up the girl and I can't even express my excitement in words. I just have a few more things to do and then I am off to bed. I love tomorrow for all that it means!!!!

Camping....

2009-06-05T12:05:00.002-06:00

I will be camping this weekend. I am not so sure how I feel about it. Hopefully it will be a fun time. We will just be sleeping in tents but these folks have a pretty good set up.

In other news I tried my first spin class yesterday and it rocked my world. I can't wait to do it again! And in just a few days I will be in paradise with Presley for a whole week! I just wish it was Wednesday already.

Diorshow What....

2009-06-02T09:28:00.002-06:00

Dear Dior,

Thank you for making the best mascara ever. You maybe a little pricey but you are worth every penny of lash curling (yes I said curling), thickening, and lengthening goodness. I will not go back to cheap grocery store knock offs so our lovely affair may continue.

Love,
Ashley xoxoxo

Missing the Girl

2009-06-02T07:55:00.003-06:00

I can't believe that it has almost been 2 months since I have seen her face. It has been easier this time but I still miss her like crazy. Our phone conversations have been so much better this time as well. Out of all the crap that you deal with in a divorce this is the worst part. You want to be selfish and keep her with you all the time but you know she needs her Dad and he needs her to. In just about a week I will be holding her and running around on the beach for a whole week of just the two of us. I can't hardly wait. I miss her smiles, terrible jokes, smell, hugs, little body, and her beautiful face.

Pics & Kicks Giveway

2009-06-01T12:09:00.003-06:00

Check out the giveaway over and Pics & Kicks. If fact she ( the totally talented Natalie Norton) is going to be doing quite a few giveaways in the near future so stay tuned.

Good Times

2009-05-27T08:55:00.002-06:00

This blog made me laugh many times yesterday. Its a little irreverent so don't get offended.

Dday Holla

2009-05-14T17:12:00.003-06:00

I realized that I never blogged about my day at Disneyland and I realized that I was having so much fun there that I really didn't take any pictures. Any way we had such a blast. We got the hopper pass and it was the greatest. We rode as many rides as we could fit in and I wasn't such a baby and rode them all. The best ride of the day? Hands down Hollywood Tower of Terror. We got to ride that one twice. We spent the whole day there and stayed until it closed. The fireworks were so beautiful I almost cried. I love fireworks! I also had to get a pic in some Minnie ears hence the pic above. Bottom line Disneyland is magic and I can't wait to go again with Presley.

2009-05-13T08:38:00.003-06:00

Dear Gymboree,

Why do you have to have such sinkn' cute kids clothes? I went to your outlet store yesterday and I could have spent a fortune. It doesn't help that you are such high quality that I am totally willing to pay your high prices. Luckily your outlet rocked in the price and cute department and I got some great things for my little one. So I will forgive you for now. I just wish you had an outlet near me.

Xoxo,
Ashley

Xmen

2009-05-13T08:33:00.002-06:00

Oooo I went to the new Xmen movie last night and I have to say I loved it. I so want to go again. I think that Hugh Jackman is such and stud and he is so ripped. Can you say eye candy! Can I also say that I was so happy that they brought Gambit into this movie and wasn't to hard to look at either. Go and see this you will not be dissapointed.

Cousins

2009-05-11T07:58:00.009-06:00

Here are a few of Presley and sassy little cousin Bella. I took these a few months ago. These two bounce back and forth from being friends and enemies. They both seem to be just a little jealous of the other. Awe the pleasures of raising girls.
Bella has this nice little playground just a few steps from her backyard. Its very convenient. And I am proud of my skills b/c they were actually sliding down the slides. Go me!

It had been raining all week and I had to get out there while the sun was still shining. It was mid day and the sun was a little harsh but oh well.
Presley thinks she is Americas Next Top Model. She loves to pose herself. FYI a good pose is a very serious face and neatly stacked hands. Its does wonders as you can see.
I have more to post and more rolls of film to develop but that is for another day. I am still living it up in CA for the next week or so. I am a slacker I need to get my return ticket asap but I just love it her with my sisters.

The Count Down

2009-05-07T11:38:00.002-06:00

We have just about hit the one month count down until I go pick up this girl and spend a week in paradise doing what ever we feel like. I have been missing her so much this time. I guess I feel this way each time she goes. I have been living it up while she has been away. I ran away to Cali again and even hit up Dland. It s been a great trip so far and I am loving spending so much time with my sisters. I have a ton of pics to blog but just can't seem to carve out the time to do it so you will have to wait a little longer (I know you are all devastated). This picture was taken back in Feb. at Knotsberry Farms. That was a great day!

2009-04-29T10:00:00.013-06:00

I am such a slacker. I took these way back in February while visiting my sister. We had such a fun time down and the beach and it was so wonderful to get out of the snow. I think they turned out pretty cute but I can do better. So we will try again in just a few days. I can't wait to run away to California again!This first pic is soooooo my sister. It reminds me of her when we were little girls. She was always the little performer.

These boys are best friends and always together. And of course my little baby. I can't wait to see her.

She's Got Legs......

2009-04-23T10:00:00.004-06:00

I was downloading some pics from Presley's camera a while ago and I stumbled up these. I was laughing soooo hard. Apparently she likes the look of her legs in my sister's sexy shoes. There were like 5-6 pics of her doing different poses. I do have to say she has some cute little legs.

Can't Wait

2009-04-22T10:06:00.002-06:00

Next week I am making a pilgrimage to Disneyland (shhh don't tell Pres). I so want it to be tomorrow. I am beyond excited for this trip. After Disney I will be staying with my beloved sister for a few weeks baking in the Cali sun. Will next week just get here already. Oh and I just remembered I will be seeing my other sis tomorrow! Yay, that should help speed time up. I smell some family pictures brewing. Good times.

2009-04-21T08:42:00.001-06:00

I miss this chicka so much. This was taken at Snowbird just before she left for Hawaii. She looks sad but she had so much fun skiing and she got a hot chocolate. Sometimes she is just all drama.