Crazy Busy.

I have not posted for several days. So here are three days worth of pictures. Mike has been out of town and I worked. There is just no down time. The first picture reflects my current addiction to scrabble on my iphone. The kids are fighting me for it. It really does suck down the battery. I have to watch the level.

The next picture is just outside the art studio. I liked the reflection across the street and the items in the window. Finally, a Pansy in Charlotte's yard. It's tough to find something blooming this time of year. This was the one thing in the yard not frostbitten by our recent ice event. I hope to get lots of good shots from her yard this spring.

Still reading Kiss by Ted Dekker. It just keeps twisting to the end. I am almost done. It's good but not great.

1/28/09 Kimberly Spreen Trim and Tone

1/27/09 Cathe Low Impact Step - I love this workout. A good step workout challenges the mind and body with choreography. You feel such an accomplishment when you are done. Helpful hints- twist in the air above the step while feet are OFF the step. This has everything to do with protecting your knees. Also beware ceiling fans. Yes it's happened a few times. Helpful hints for kids- Beware arms and legs flying when Mommy is working out. Yes it's happened a few times. Mommy will not answer the phone, the door or carry on a conversation while the video is playing.

Back to Bible Study.

Finally! My class meets on Monday. So far this month, I have missed two meetings due to sickness and Martin Luther King. It was so wonderful to get back with this group of great ladies. This is the first time I have done a Precepts study. Kay Arthur is such a passionate teacher of the Word. She makes it come alive. We are finishing up our study of John and will begin Hosea next. I've done lots of Bible studies at lots of churches. After many years of BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) I decided to try something different. It has been great. God definitely puts you right where he wants you.

I am hoping the weather does not get to crazy. Why does the weather always get bad when Mike is out of town?

1/26/09 Bob's Bootcamp

Color Angst.

I painted the scraproom today. Today's picture is my color inspiration for the room. Think beach- blues, browns, white with some black. It is always a struggle to get that perfect wall color. Is it too light, too dark, or too bright? I am close to the right color. It is so hard to tell from the paint chip. It always goes on the wall darker. I had to consider the lighting in the room which is not enough and size, small. The furniture going in the room is mostly dark so it will suck up a lot of light. At this point I'm just glad to be done painting. I can't wait to get the furniture in the room now.

Catching Up.

So today I began to catch up on cleaning and workouts. My family "volunteered" to pitch in. That was a real blessing. I did The Firm Aerobic Body Shaping for my workout. It is fast paced and kick butt. This was necessary to make up for two lost days this week. It's amazing what one good workout can do for your body and mind. I have used Firm workout videos since high school graduation. I have watched them change over the years thru marriage, pregnancies, cosmetic surgery, and various gadgets. This workout is one of my favorites. It moves so fast I have to pause twice during the video to make weight and equipment changes. Allie does a fabulous job as the lead. The end is my all time favorite/award winning final segment. Her cool down stretch is a zen experience after this workout. Allie is probably my favorite lead along with Tracie Long. Tracie has gone out on her own quite successfully.

I am including a picture of my workout space. You can't see the treadmill off to the right. The floor is covered with thick foam mats for impact absorption. The videos on top of the TV are the most used. The ones on the shelf represent my current collection. Not pictured are the handful of videos that are loaned out. I also ordered ChaLean Extreme today. I have VERY high expectations for this set. I will talk about that more later.

1/24/09 Firm Aerobic Body Shaping

Back to work.

Worked at the computer lab today. I felt bad about canceling yesterday. Still not 100%. Kelly services would not quit calling. They called yesterday after I told them I was sick as a dog wanting to schedule me for Friday. I was like let's wait and see if solid food stays down today,OK? So they called this morning before 6. I ignored them till they called back at 7. I said if my breakfast stays down I will work but I can't go in till 8:30. It all worked out thankfully. I am using this picture we took for facebook. I really don't like most pictures of me. This one is not so bad. That's my husband Mike in case you don't know.

Sick Day.

Major bummer. I was scheduled to sub at my favorite school today. The one I rarely have the opportunity to serve at. I woke up early this morning with some sort of stomach bug. It was not pretty. Praise God Mike was in town today. Otherwise, the kids would have been calling around for rides to school. The day was totally gimped.

There is not much worth taking a picture of around here. The place is a wreck and I am laid up on the couch. So I took a picture of my next book. Ted Dekker is a wonderful christian author. This new book Kiss looks great. It's a psychological suspense thriller. I can't wait to start it.

I hate the cold.

It was a cool 25 this morning. This demands Starbucks. My favorite is Caramel Apple Spice. Pure sugar sweet with no caffeine. I don't even want to know how many grams of sugar are in that cup. Ignorance is bliss. You can add this to my list of things I wish I could do every day.

I finished Dead Heat today. Only the Christians had a happy ending. I am a Christian and it is still hard to read. This whole series is a great story from beginning to end. Joel Rosenberg also has a fascinating blog with current world events. I understand Obama is planning to shut down Guantanamo asap. I can't wait to see where he plans to send the terrorists.

Thank you Jeff Bruce for the photo that made my day. His facebook page has a picture of the trash left by the crowds after inauguration. Obama's green celebration in which he spoke about personal responsibility and community service could not be better represented.

Inauguration 2009.

It can't be avoided. Everywhere I go, there it is. I have to add a picture to my photo diary. I wish him well. I will pray for him. I just hope he has some real substance with that style.

1/20/09 Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred

Paint Day.

Monday, I began the painting process in the scrap room. I have to cover the base color with Kilz to get a true color end result. I hope this will lighten the room up also. This counted as my workout today. Several hours on a ladder with your hands over your head feels like a workout. It covered really well. Not a trace of purple paint left.

Dead Heat is fast paced and really good. Actually, I am finding it pretty scary. The book is a look into the question "What if America is physically unable to aide Israel?" The entire series is a fictional look at Ezekiel 37-39. It beats Stephen King any day of the week.

Monday's Question- How do you relieve stress effectively?

Working out is my number one stress reliever. It clears my mind and calms me. I try not to go more than two days without a workout. I feel the difference in my body that fast. It affects my sleep, mood, digestion, and more. I think most people have lost touch with how good it makes the body feel to workout. Cleaning and ironing are also great stress relievers for me. Seriously, ironing a load of clothes alters my mood fast. I am really surprised how well it works.

Love that face.

Today was a fun day in the nursery. How can you not enjoy faces like this? I also love working with the other volunteers. If you want to meet people in a church, volunteer to serve somewhere. I always enjoy my Sunday mornings in the kid's house.

This afternoon I began the clean out process of the scrap area. I am purging, sorting and organizing. Quite a big project. This is going to take a while. I have some good ideas and am excited to see the end result.

Before and After.

This was a fun project. The blue is from a can of spray paint. This was the first time I tried that. It was quick and easy. It dried fast and there was no brush or mess to clean up. Cool.

Mike talked me into going to a movie. I told him my list of things to do was really to long. He convinced me anyway. We went to see Gran Torino. Mike has wanted to see this since it came out. The movie was great. The theater was packed. Most of the viewers were even older than we are. Mr. Eastwood looked really old and was fabulous in this movie. If politically incorrect statements offend you, don't go. Otherwise, go experience a really good story.

I went to the library and picked up Dead Heat by Joel Rosenberg. It's exciting from page one. I'm already hooked.

1/17/09 Tracie Long Training- Strength in Movement

Cool Day.

Ok, it was freezing. So guess who had outside car duty on the coldest day of the year? It was a ridiculous 18 degrees this morning. I am going to have to invest in some gloves, scarves, and ear muffs designed for more than decoration. Afternoon duty wasn't that much better it barely reached 30. Other than that it was a good day. I actually subbed in a class with Sarah. She was thrilled to say the least. Note the pajamas she was wearing. Today was pj party for some students. They all piled out of the cars this morning wearing slippers and thin pj's. I was doing modified jumping jacks to keep the blood flowing.

1/16/09 No workout, the school called as I was going upsatirs to workout.
1/15/09 Turbo Jam Punch, Kick & Jam

Light Dusting.

It is really cold here. Tonight's low is in the teens. We were quite surprised to find a very light dust of snow in our yard. My children were disappointed it was so little. The deck was the only place with enough to take a decent picture.

I only have a few pages left in Three Cups of Tea. The book reads like a news article reporting on his travels. As inspiring as it is, I have not loved it. I really want to sink into a novel and feel the experience. What I am taking away from the book- 1. One person can make a huge difference. 2. Poverty and the lack of education open the doors for evil. 3. A picture of true christian service. Mortenson is an incredible example of being the hands and feet. He went in with nothing more than the desire to love those people and make their lives better. It really could be a modern day loaves and fishes story. The small amount of money he spent building the schools enriched the lives of entire villages in so many ways.

I am not sure what I am reading next. I would like to read Dead Heat by Joel Rosenberg. I think it is book 5 in his series. I have read all of the others. Kay Arthur has been talking to him on her radio show. I listen to her Precepts for Life broadcast at oneplace.com. You can listen by going online and clicking on the archives list. Each broadcast is only about 20 minutes. I HIGHLY recommend any one of them.

Good news.

Jamie's report card was in the mail today. I really am proud so I had to take a picture of it. I would like to point out the only semester B was .5 away from an A. Not only does he have a great mind he has a sweet, loving spirit. His teachers always comment on this. He is transforming before my very eyes.

Thank you Aunt pat for the very helpful sewing suggestion. I am absolutely going to practice. I am including a picture of the Pixie for you. I am learning a lot. For example, the size of the thread spool matters. I bought a few colors only to find they are to big for my machine. This was was surprising because they looked standard to me. As I said, I have zero sewing experience. I will post a project if I ever get a straight stitch line.

You may have noticed I removed the quote of the day feature. The last quote was from Bill Clinton with a big goofy picture. I don't think so. I will find something else. I have also updated the playlist. I added Led Zeppelin for Jamie. He is filling the house with their music and it's on my mind. I also added David Cook in honor of American Idol. We couldn't be lucky enough to get two cool winners in a row.

1/14/09 Cathe Push/Pull Weights

Fun Delivery.

It is always so fun to come home to a new delivery. I really love those big brown trucks. The best things are loaded up and on their way to someone. They visit my house less often since the credit cards are gone. Mike may argue that point. This book has been backordered for a while. The classes at BPS are really popular. Someday, I will learn my lesson and plan ahead. I am using this to plan my new space. I can't wait to get started. I am already visualizing the completed process.

I worked at the art studio today. The talented ladies amaze me with each new project. I hope to talk one of them into allowing me to post their art. They make it look so easy. Their were some special Christmas gifts given this year. It's so cool to watch the weekly progress of the students.

1/13/09 Kimberly Spreen Cardio Camp

Busy day.

I have done a little bit of everything today. Sarah had a doctors appointment early. From that point on, I ran all day. I did get to accomplish one small project. I cleaned the laundry room. You have to take a picture of that because it will not last for more than an hour.

Monday's question- What was the most important day of your life?

The birthdays of both of my children. Jamie was first so that may qualify as the winner. Simply because I became a mother for the first time. As everyone tells you, it is a life change unlike ANYTHING else. They bring so much joy into your life. I am so thankful for them both.

1/12/09 Bob's Boot Camp (there really seems to be a pattern here)

Yesterday and Today.

Here is yesterday's picture. My scrapbook area really is a wreck. I am planning a major reorganization in the next few weeks. Looking at the picture, we can all say it's way past due. The mess is worse when I am working on a project. So today's picture is my current project. I am making a small December album with my favorite shots of the holiday season. It's very simple and focuses on the pictures. It is inspired by Kollette's Attribute album.

This has been a good weekend. Church was fabulous today. I have done some cleaning and lots of crafting. One of my Christmas presents was a Pixie machine. This is Singer's answer to the person who only wants to sew on their scrapbook pages. Keep in my mind I have ZERO sewing experience. It took me awhile to figure out the threading and bobbin procedure. After much practice I still can not sew a straight line. Note to self - Call Kristi ASAP.

1/10/09 Firm Bootcamp
1/11/09 Sunday/Rest

Long Day.

This has been a long week. It is definitely catching up with me. The class at the junior high went well. The kids really love it when they find out my name is Mrs. Freeze. I have heard every batman joke there is. The new science labs are very impressive.

I had some time to read Three Cups of Tea while the students did their worksheets. It really is a interesting look into Muslim life. Mortenson respects their prayers and customs and in return he earns their trust. They would never have allowed an infidel to build anything in their village otherwise.

Here is a sweet picture of Bella in her favorite spot.

Just Cleaning.

I didn't get a call today so I stayed home and cleaned. There is always plenty to do around here. I did have time to take a few pictures as I dusted. I am scheduled to sub for a junior high science teacher tomorrow. That should be very interesting. Jamie is trying to scare me to death about it.

I am beginning to look at paint chips for the remodeled scrapbook room. That will be a fun project. I will definitely take pictures of that. Before and after will be a huge transformation.

Work Day.

Today I subbed for the librarian. I sub for the local schools as one of my part time jobs. It was a great way to spend the day. Who wouldn't love being surrounded by wonderful children's stories with beautiful illustrations? I read a variety of great books to several different grades. It really is a fun way to make extra money As always, I walked away thinking teachers are saints with incredible patience.

Three Cups of Tea update- I am up to chapter 6. I have to say it is really moving slow. I would have given up on any other book. I had high expectations for this. The point of view really bothers me. Greg Mortenson wrote this with an editor so everything is referred to Mortenson did this or that. It really distracts from his story. He life is fascinating.

Celebrity Sighting.

Tonight is the season premiere of The Biggest Loser. I am a fitness fanatic and a huge fan of the show, I love to watch the contestants change week to week. It is incredible how quickly the human body transforms with diet and exercise alone. I highly recommend the Biggest Loser workouts. I use them and Jillian's workouts regularly. They are very challenging. If the overweight, out of shape contestants can keep up , so can you! I can't wait to see the new cast.

I have to tell you about my celebrity sighting. Last May, Sarah and I flew to Boston. I noticed an attractive lady before we boarded the plane. All of her hair was tucked up inside this huge cap. Of course, Sarah and I are sitting there with our large airport yogurts. She looked at us and smiled. I had no idea who she was. Later as we waited to pick up our luggage this same lady was talking with someone. Upon hearing her voice I knew exactly who it was. OMG it's Jillian Michaels! My heart began to pound. She was very petite, wearing high heels, jeans, sweatshirt, and a huge cap. I went up to her and gushed like an idiot. I told her I loved the show and used her workouts. She was very sweet and friendly. She told me I looked great and she could tell I was working out. I told her how exciting it was to finally have a female biggest loser. She said she was very proud of Ali Vincent. We chatted a few minutes until the luggage arrived. She wished me luck and said goodbye. I floated away not even thinking about the two cameras in my bag. Sigh, I have no picture. Her weekly radio show is very informative. She goes more into diet, supplements, and lifestyle.

Pictured are a few of my favorite workouts. I should try to get a picture of my entire library.

1/6/09 overslept- only 25m on treadmill

A wet, cold Monday.

I am taking Kollette Hall's class - A Life Well Crafted- at www.bigpicturescrapbooking.com. It is a combination of craft projects, journaling, and inspirational messages. The class is open for all to register if anyone is interested. I just signed up for January but I will definitely continue the rest of the year.

Today's question is - What have you given up and been better for it?

There are many responses to that. An extra hour of sleep most mornings to work out. Some days are harder than others. Credit cards- I still miss them. I would like to give up diet drinks/artificial sweeteners. That would thrill Jillian my fitness guru. She is all about organic. Ain't gonna happen.

Of course, not working when my kids were babies. I do not regret a missed career or the financial bonus. That has hugely impacted my life and hopefully my children's as well. I have to thank Mike for that one. He alone made that possible and I am eternally grateful.

1/4/09 Sunday/Rest

1/5/09 Crunch Legs Bootcamp/20m on Treadmill

First book of 2009.

I am so ready for a good book. I LOVE to read. I will read just about anything-mystery, historical, classic, romance, young adult, science fiction and on and on. A good story is a good story regardless of the genre. I may be the only person left who has not read Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson. It just keeps on showing up on book lists. A friend recently told me it was the best book she read last year. So how can I pass it by?

My favorite book without a doubt from last year is Twilight. The entire saga was incredible but the first book introduces Bella and Edward. I was captivated with each page turned. I can't wait for Stephenie Meyer's next book. The Host, also by Stephenie, was a great story too. Here are a few of my other favorites from 2008.

Annette Vallon: a novel of the French Revolution - James Tipton
Crank - Ellen Hopkins
Book of a Thousand Days - Shannon Hale
Skylight Confessions - Alice Hoffman
Anything written by Charlaine Harris. Her books are pretty dark but the heroines are strong in the worst of situations.

Taking it all down.

We began the Christmas cleanup today. The house was a total wreck and I could not put it off any longer. Sarah was a big help taking it all down. What a work out! I think I made 100 trips up and down the stairs. I am ready for a clean fresh start. The weather was so warm we opened the windows to let the fresh air in. The puppies loved it. They were in and out all day. The clean up already has me thinking garage sale. Monday morning is getting way to close. I don't know how we are all going to get up before 8:00. We have been such bums. It's been great.

I am looking for a calendar to add to the site. I want to log my workouts each day. So far, I can't find one that works for me. Until then, I am just going to list them at the end.

1/1/09 Ellen Barrett Fat Burning Fusion
1/2/09 Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred
1/3/09 Cathe Supersets

Playdate.

Today we discovered Playtime Pizza. Wow. I think Jamie has found his Mothership. That place is incredible. We had a great time and burned up some cash. It is definitely worth the trip. Next time Jamie plans to spend all of his money on lasertag. The building is very dark, hard to get good pictures. I like the action of Sarah bowling. Jamie is just HAPPY.

One.

This blog begins as a journal and photo record. I am going to do the 365 challenge this year. That is one picture every single day. I hope to improve my photography and editing skills. I will be using different cameras to accomplish this. This photo was taken New Years day. Anyone who knows me can tell you very few of my days begin without one of these. The challenge will be new and different things to photograph. Most of them will be simple glimpses into my daily life. A journal of my favorite books, movies, and music. A lot of these pictures will go into a scrapbook for my children. Very few of my scrapbook pages include even one photo of me.

Best wishes to all. May this year bring you God's blessings of health and peace.