Life in AZ.

First Day @ ASU

2011-08-19T01:06:00.001-07:00

Today was my very first day attending Arizona State University, ASU. I was pretty proud of myself overall, with staying in line with my classes and not getting lost. Besides the traffic on the way there causing me an extra 30 minutes and the horrendous heat that was utterly unbearable, I had a great day.

(Photo taken before my first day of class.
A tradition since I was in Preschool/Kindergarten.)

The night before classes, I went with my friend Emily and a few others in her dorm, to the Passport event put on but all of the clubs & organizations on campus. It was not only a fun time, because we got free schwag items but I really got the feel for where the campus "hang out" is: the MU (Memorial Union) building. Which is HUGE by the way. It has all the food you could imagine, it's own mini-grocery store, Starbucks & Wells Fargo!

The morning of, I gave myself and hour to get there and an hour and a half to get to my first class (MORE than enough time, but I wanted everything to be perfect; NOT rushed). I found parking right away, got on the right bus (thank gawd) in less than 5mins of waiting, & was walking to my class 10mins after I parked. It was great! Although, I did have quite a bit of time to kill. Note: One of my fears before hand was that I wouldn't find a parking spot, I'd get on the wrong bus heading the wrong way, and in the end, I'd be late for my 1st class, standing in the back without a seat (I'm always so "worst case scenario" with things). My fears only caused me to be overly cautious, which helped because nothing bad happened what-so-ever.

The reason I arrived to each class super early was so I could get a seat in the front. Surprisingly, I was the only one in the front until the last of the students arrived and were forced to sit there because there was no other seats available. Apparently no one knows the correlation between sitting up front and getting an A in the class (Psych 101). Also, I literally was the only one who printed out the syllabus for each class.. Nerd alert? Not sure but I was overly prepared and that, to me, was better than being a lost cause.

Also, I luckily already met a great study buddy in my English class, that happens to be taking the same Spanish course as me as well & at the same time/building; different teachers but same book! She's a transfer student as well and we both had our first ASU class together, English 102.

The largest class I'd ever been to in my life, was my Psych 290 class - 100 people! Which, as my teacher told us, is the class that lets you call yourself a Psych Major. The next classes after 290 are all upper graduate classes only allowed by my major. I'm highly considering minoring in Public Relations or English...But I will wait to make those decisions next semester after I get a feel for everything.

The perks of today: my laptop didn't die on me. I didn't get lost within campus at all (thanks to my Google Maps via iPhone). I even bought some frozen yogurt in the MU building to cool off and visited the on campus Computer store which hosts Apple Mac items! I did go off campus to Jersey Mike's for lunch, and easily got back to the parking lot and on the next bus, back into the center of campus in no time. I love it! I only paid $280 for my BFE parking lot, furthest from the classrooms. I don't even think walking 10ft to the bus stop and sitting in an air conditioned vehicle while being escorted to the front of my class pretty much, counts as a "ASU Parking Problems"... No grazing for parking spots layer upon layer, or walking across campus from the large parking structures to get to class as I would have had to do if I paid $780.

On another positive not, everyone I came in contact with all were all super friendly, helpful, complimenting, and out going; as if we were already friends. Maybe it's just the Gold & Maroon blood that now runs through our veins. All of my classes were pretty awesome too, and I'd like to believe that I have really good instructors; thus far.

My last class was Spanish, and a great wake-me-up since the teacher spoke 95% in Spanish; I guess this will force me to learn it even faster. As I got out of class, it was pretty eery outside. A monsoon & dust storm were on the way; you could feel it in the wind & air. I made my way to the busiest bus stop & back to my car just before the lightening & t-storms started. I got home in 30mins flat!

(Photo taken on University at Fulton Center)

All in all, I really had a great first day at ASU. I am very excited to be finally at a REAL University! It is really a fun school with tons of people and a fun city/college feel. Truly, a dream come true! I couldn't ask for anything more.

2011-03-30T02:06:00.000-07:00

Gibbles took over my spot on the couch!

Rainy Day in AZ

2011-03-21T12:39:00.000-07:00

Shadow & Gibson are enjoying the rain today.

I made Gibs a bed, high up,
so he could see with the Kitty.

This is why his name is Shadow!
He really does look like a shadow.

I love my fur-babes!

David's Graduation UTI

2011-02-12T15:38:00.000-08:00

David graduated UTI this past Friday - wahoo!
He graduated as "Ford FACT Certified."

So Proud!

Mitch, Rachel, David & Myself

1.1.11 AZ Style

2011-01-02T14:35:00.000-08:00

New Year's Day Shenanigans:

On the way...
David and I went shooting for New Year's. It was so much fun. We went with Tim and Tavia, along with another friend Eric.

David loading a round for his Glock.
This is David shooting his Glock:

Me Shooting the riffle:

Great start to 2011!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Dr. Oz says...

2010-12-02T22:17:00.000-08:00

...that by eating red peppers your body will build and repair collagen fibers within your skin. They have twice the amount of Vitamin C per serving than that of an orange; and fewer calories. Vitamin C, while inside your body, will link collagen fibers that are otherwise broken apart or "wrinkled"; it plays as a "Natural Botox". All you need is about a 1/2 cup of red peppers per day; that's only 20 calories!

Okay, Next one...

...you need natural OMEGA-3's every week to help improve dry skin. His recommendation was to throw trout into the weekly dinner mix. Instead of always eating salmon as fish, try trout. All you need is about 1-2 average size fillets (trout or salmon) per week to do the job.

This ones good...

...you need to eat collard greens because it helps with acne. It's rich in Vitamin A which will help with natural acne reduction from the inside out. All you need is about 1/2 cup of cooked, collard greens per week. He suggests we cook them in olive oil and mix with garlic to help maintain the bitterness.

And...

...that capers, which are rich in Quercetin, are natural antihistamines for the body. By throwing just a tablespoon of capers into your food per week, it will naturally reduce redness and inflammation within the skin.

Also...

...that eating pink grapefruit, which are rich in Lycopene, will naturally protect your skin from the suns harmful UV rays. It "handcuffs" oxygen molecules together in the cell, so they can't be broken by the sun rays; all while keeping the cell safe from destruction. Just a 1/2 grapefruit per week should do the trick, (up to one per week thereafter).

This blog post was thought of and written for my bestie Meg.

Gibson Loves Sun. Shadow Loves Shade.

2010-11-12T11:58:00.000-08:00

This morning I decided to do some computer work outback on our patio. Of course I had the furbabes outside with me. I've always known that Gibson has LOVED the sun but he's such a funny guy in these photos.

Shadow loves the shade and Gibs loves the sun!

Eventually, I put Gibs bed in the sun since I felt like
the rocks weren't comfortable for him. He loved it!

Kitty-bones was hanging out in the shade on the grass.

Gibbles decided to join him; they love each other!

Our new pad, so far.

2010-10-06T20:50:00.000-07:00

We moved to Litchfield Park, AZ!

We all worked very hard. A special thanks to
the awesome movers, Alma, & David.

Before After

My Office

Guest Bedroom

The Weather
from the back patio.

The furbabies after a long weekend.

That's it for now. We are
still unpacking and getting things organized.
We love it here!

Saturday's in AZ.

2010-09-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

A little video I made of Gibson & Shadow
playing with their new toys they got today.

David's 25th Birthday

2010-09-13T23:20:00.000-07:00

More AZ Sunsets.

2010-08-17T00:19:00.000-07:00

A beautiful Cumulonimbus cloud. Simply gorgeous!
Palm Tree's in Arizona, tells us a golf course is near.
Pastel Beauties!
S is for Sarah.
The sunset today was breath taking...
A short video.

BlogLovin.com

2010-08-07T20:01:00.000-07:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Peace.

2010-07-28T22:41:00.000-07:00

Today's sunset...

...Storm clouds forming...

...loss for words, simply gorgeous!

Dewy Pink Rose Pens

2010-07-22T18:40:00.001-07:00

I put these together for a few of my peeps!
Aren't they cute?

I wanted to change it up a bit
from the original purple & green pens,
to these pink & black ones.♥

Meet Tiki

2010-07-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

Today my Scentsy package came in the mail. I was so excited to get it because I knew I would get to meet, Tiki! I recently was given the "Scentsational Start" award for selling a significant enough amount of Scentsy in my first 60 days. With that title, I received a $50 product credit and a Scentsy lapel pin, along with a certificate of recognition. I've been saving the credit for the past month until the July 2010 Warmer of the Month came out.

SO, may I please present to you - Tiki.
Posing with the Scent of the Month: Paradise Punch.

I also purchased a few scent bars to go along with.
A newer favorite: Red Candy Apple, along with two of the
"Bring Back My Bar" limited edition wax bars; available till the end of July.

This is him all lit up!
He smells so yummmmmmy!

Want a Tiki of your very own?
Buy him here:Scentsy of the Month

Kitties are so funny!

2010-07-13T19:44:00.001-07:00

Kitty Bones thinks he can fit...
just about anywhere!

Cats got your tail Gibbles!

David's '91 BMW M5

2010-07-06T21:22:00.001-07:00

This is David's new project car. He got it while we were in California this past weekend. It's a beauty - this classic was 100% hand built. His M3 is still in CA but he doesn't mind, he LOVES this one!

Action Clip:

Relay For Life -- Moorpark 2010

2010-07-02T15:00:00.000-07:00

I need your help in raising money for the American Cancer Society! Sponsor me as I walk, on August 14-15, to help fight for the cure! Any amount works, it all adds up, and with the funds we raise we will be able to contribute to finding a cure for one of the most deadliest diseases on this planet!

CLICK HERE TO DONATE ONLINE

Our Team Captain Candee, former Team Captain Debbie,
Relay for Life Chair and Team Captain Barbara,
and myself, former Team Captain, at my
Dollars & Scents fundraiser for Relay!

I'm currently in 3rd place for the top
participants who've raised the most money!!!

Goal: $100.00
Achieved: $1,052.54
as of July 2, 2010.

Check it out!

2010-07-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

Warmer of the Month for July ~ HOW ADORABLE IS THIS!!
Click to: Meet Tiki!

10% off the entire month!!
BUY

My Gratitude Goes To...

2010-06-22T19:48:00.000-07:00

David, Dr. Poulos, & My Mom.

The day before Father's Day I woke up in the middle of the night with a pre-root canal toothache. I was up hour after hour in excruciating pain, keeping David wide awake, as I was in tears. By 8:00am, I was on my MacBook Googling for "Emergency Dentist in Phoenix." ...In my mind all I could hear was, "what dentist is actually going to be open on Sunday? Especially on Father's Day."

But to my blessing, on page one of Google, aka the best spot in the entire internet, was "Phoenix Emergency Dentist." ...I called.

Of course, as it should be, Dr. Poulos answered the phone right away. He was so nice and willing to help. David drove me all the way to Scottsdale
(40 minutes away) for my 9:30am emergency appointment.

Dr. Poulos was very thorough and easy going, I felt like I was at home. To top it off, not only was their office space adorable, they had a Scentsy warmer in their bathroom!! WAHOO!

David, thank you for being there for me when I was in the most pain and spending your Sunday morning & afternoon with me at the dentist, I didn't want to do it alone.

Dr. Poulos, I'd be in pain without you. I'm so grateful you sacrificed your Father's Day for people like me.

Mom, thanks for fronting the funds in order for this to all go down...You're the best Mama ever! (Dad helped too I'm sure.)

Visit them at: North Scottsdale Family Dentistry

5 stars!

Every link has a purpose.

OFF TO DISNEYLAND WE GO!

2010-06-16T21:13:00.000-07:00

My godchild Kalea turned 8 this past June 15th. That means, 8 years ago my sister-friend gave birth to my goddaughter, also I graduated high school 8 years ago and my chihuahua back at home is now 8 years old. The day before her birthday, we (Jessyka and I) took her
to Disneyland; we want to make it a tradition to always
do D-Land every year together for her B-Day.

It all started with breakfast at Mimi's Cafe.

and with...MICKY PANCAKES!!!

Our signature photo:

First thing... "Visiting the Princesses"

Kalea dancing!

Dumbo! (Kalea's 2nd pick)

Sapphire, Diamond, & Ruby (Our horse names).

Her first time on Space Mountain..Scared much?...She ended up wanting to go on it
3 more times; RIGHT after we got off the ride.

We went on a few more rides all together
then Jessyka'a friend came to pick Kalea up to go swimming
(Kalea insisted she swam at the hotel.)
She'll be a swimmer one day, WATCH.
...Jess and I went back to Disneyland to visit a few more
rides that Kalea didn't want to go on, Pirates & The Haunted House.

FIREWORKS!!

We headed to the hotel to celebrate Kalea's birthday at 12:00AM
she was happy to stay up and open her presents right on her birthday!One of her gifts was Princess extensions!

Mikey Dreams & Goodnight!

Girl's Laker Night at Majerles!

2010-06-08T21:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight was a blast! I met up with Jamie and the girls to watch the
Lakers vs. Celtics game at Majerles Sports Grill in Goodyear, AZ.
We pretty much were the only Laker fans there;
and we made sure everyone knew it!

Phoenix Sun's Coach, Alvin Gentry, was eating across from us with his family. He was super nice! (Notice the wad of cash in his hand. hehe.)
He didn't stay till the end, but it was nice dining within feet of him.

WE WON!
GO LAKERS!!

Gibson's First Day at The Beach!

2010-05-29T17:53:00.000-07:00

Today was Gibson's first time to the beach.

It was quite the adventure that included Gibson,
Michelle, Megan, Mia
& Myself.

We found a dog-friendly beach in Malibu just south of Zuma.
It was absolutely perfect with a mini-hike down to the water.
Just gorgeous!

Gibson LOVED the water!
He was a bit scared and perky-eared at first,
but once the waves caught up with him, he ran right for them.

Gibson loved sunbathing in the sand.
He's a seal at heart!

It was a perfect day for the beach!

The adventure actually started after the beach,
but I'll save that story for another time.

Thanks for the amazing day girls!
And to my Boyfriend who was our hero!

Love you all!

My Gratitude Goes To...

2010-05-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

...Scott Gousha, owner of www.getbackdesigns.com, home of the Original St. Christopher Surf Medal's.

I'd like to send a special thanks to Get Back Designs, for helping me out today. I absolutely LOVE their necklaces and St. Christopher charms and they truly have ALWAYS been a pleasure to work with. I had recently lost my key-chain of theirs, it was a gift from my best friend, Megan, and it meant a great deal to me; so I was really upset about it.

Somehow, the screw hatch of the key ring kept coming loose and I always had to go back and make sure it was tightened so my keys wouldn't slip off, sure enough - it happened and the key-chain is gone! Luckily, I had all my other keys on a separate ring. I went ahead and emailed Get Back Designs to explain my situation and to tell them to be aware of this issue because I wouldn't want this happening to anyone else. Shortly after, I get an e-mail from the owner, Scott, telling me, "Not to worry. We will replace it with whatever keychain you want." I guess they have been phasing out these old style rings and now have more new & improved ones. I love their products and more so, I love their customer service! I will NEVER go anywhere else and I urge you to check them out.

Whitney Port's Blog Post

2010-05-26T11:33:00.001-07:00

A Look into Whitney Port's Glamour Page from
last nites episode of The City:
How adorable is this outfit!! Great work Whit!

"MY LOOK FOR GLAMOUR MAGAZINE" - Whitney

"Hi guys! I hope you all liked the episode last night. In case you haven't seen this yet I wanted to show you the piece that I shot for Glamour..."

Make sure to Read more on her blog: http://whitneyport.celebuzz.com/

Cali bound...

2010-05-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

Upcoming dates to remember:

May 28th - 31st ~ Driving out for Memorial Weekend

June 11th - 15th ~ Flying out for Kalea's Birthday Party; Hair Appointment with James; Rachel's Graduation; Michelle's BBQ; Disneyland with Kalea n' Company;

I can't wait to see everyone!!! xo, Peep

Griffin House "The Guy That Says Goodbye To You Is Out Of His Mind"

2010-05-14T19:44:00.000-07:00

This song is beautiful...Make sure to "pause" my Playlist (right side 1/2 way down)

My Birthday Trip to Route 66!

2010-05-03T18:26:00.000-07:00

I truly had the BEST birthday this year. I woke up and opened presents from David & my mom. Then, David had planned to take me up to Route 66 for a day trip. We were hesitant at first because when we checked the weather it said it was "snowing" and 43°. We decided we'd just give it a shot, and I'm so glad we did...

The Roni & I

The gorgeous view on the drive up.

Looks like rain...

A few miles further, it started SNOWING!! (Hard to see).

it cleared up right away...& it was so pretty!

Snow caps!

Puffy Clouds!

not sure... Deer maybe?

Gibson was barking at them..

Old Route 66

And we made it!

Me; standing by the Rotary clock.

Gibs led the way.

The Boys! (Canyon Club)

Addicted.

The Gang: An official Arizona US 66 Sign

And the loop..back down the other way.

Here are some photos of the town:

Then...Our adventure back home:

Did I mention it was COLD out? 34°!
SO COLD...IT SNOWED AGAIN, WATCH THIS:

Cacti families! It's started to get warmer.

THE END - now 40° hotter.

Gib's New Toy

2010-05-01T22:22:00.001-07:00

David and I made a Petsmart trip tonight; of course we had to shop around for our Gibbles. We went through all the toys and both said to each other, "he'll just rip these apart right when we give it to him." As we walked towards the register there was a kiosk of new toys; I saw these "Plubber", plush toys - instead of the typical "stuffed" ones, there was rubber inside as well as a squeaker. I highly recommend them for the dog who loves to rip toys apart for the stuffing ~ Check them out here: Toyshoppe Plubber Toy. Gibson LOVES it and it shows...

Gibson with his toy (notice the stuffing from the bed. lol.)

"what mom?" - Gibson

Kitty Bones wants to play too...

"There's gotta be stuffing in here somewhere!"

"Don't even think about trying to take this away!"

Mommy loves her Gibbles. KISSES!

Holy Cuteness: Baby kangaroo at the beach

2010-04-16T16:27:00.001-07:00

Holy Cuteness: Baby kangaroo at the beach

Posted using ShareThis

The Hills Season 6 - Trailer - Final Season

2010-04-01T23:09:00.000-07:00

Goodbye to The Hills.

Flower Pens for Sale!

2010-03-28T21:49:00.001-07:00

My current side project: Flower Coffee Pens

For Sale

12 for $20
6 for $12
1 for $3

Available in most colors. Coffee beans fill the inside of the flower for a pleasant sniff from time to time.

Email Me to Order

Toilet Paper Fetish

2010-03-21T15:50:00.000-07:00

If he gets a hold of toilet paper, he'll shred it to pieces...every time.

Oh, Kitty-Bones.

Crash

2010-03-19T10:20:00.000-07:00

All I heard was a HUGE crash...

I ran into the dining/living room to see this...

My precious animals were playing a classic game of: dog chases cat -- this is the result. CRAZY KIDS!

Bye bye to the glass lamp -- my Scentsy survived, thank goodness! But there was wax all over the chair, side table, & tile floor. WHEW! Took me a while to clean it up. Needless to say, we now need a new lamp.

Day After Valentine's Day - Recipe for Heart Shaped Mini-Meatloaf

2010-02-15T18:25:00.000-08:00

It's the day after Valentine's Day and I'm still feeling love in the air. Today, I was blessed with a day off to celebrate President's Day - wahoo!

For dinner, I really wanted to make something fun, yet special, for David when he came home on his break. I had saved a recipe that I found in my @rachelraymag; Feb 2010 [actual recipe]. It was truly the cutest thing ever: HEART SHAPED MINI-MEAT LOAF! And since its only a day past Valentine's, I figured I'd keep the hearts a'floating for a little while longer.

Now I present, my version of, "Tex-Mex Mini Meatloaf" dinner; documented via my iPhone. (Might I add, this entire meal was provided fresh by @fresh_and_easy, aka f&e.)

Recipe - ready in 35 min. (Serves two + leftovers)

1lb of f&e ground turkey
1 egg
2 handfuls of f&e's lime flavored tortilla chips
6 tbsp of f&e's medium roasted salsa
salt & pepper

1.5 cups of f&e long grain white rice (can sub for brown rice)
3/4 a can of f&e organic black beans
1/2 a stock of green onions
extra salsa for dipping

Pre-heat oven to bake at 400º.

In a rice maker, add 1.5 cups of rice - (add water as suggested; I fill mine to the 1.5 water mark). Cut the green onion at the bottom, and place the chopped whites inside the rice maker. Add salt (4+ shakes). Cover and press "on".

Grab a medium baking sheet; and either line it with parchment paper or spray non-stick cooking spray, dispersing evenly.

Take the two handfuls of chips and crush them up with your hands inside a large bowl. Crunch until they are almost crumbs. Add the egg and the 6 tbsp of salsa; whisk together until blended. Now, add the turkey meat to the bowl and mix ingredients together with your hands; you'll notice it will start to thicken.

Once mixed, place a heart shaped cookie cutter onto the surface of the baking sheet and grab a handful of seasoned turkey meat. Gently press the meat into the heart and pat down until completely full. Now, remove the cookie cutter and shape if needed. (Add remaining meat to a freezer safe container for future meals).

Throw the hearts into the oven for about 15mins, or until hardened. Take out and cut off any excess meat from the "heat shape" that has melted off during cooking - shape accordingly.

Meanwhile, cut up the green onions. Drain can of beans and add to a small sauce pan. On medium heat, cook black beans, chopped green onions, and salt. Once finished, add beans to rice maker and set on warm until ready to serve.

(OPTIONAL) Diagnally cut 1/2" pieces of french bread, cover with butter and garlic salt; add to a small baking sheet.

Take out meatloaf when finished and set oven to broil on high.

Place bread and meatloaf hearts back inside the oven to brown, (about 5 minutes).

Serve with salsa for dipping.

That's it! It was amazing and very healthy too - try it out!

- I'm becoming a cook, one meal at a time-

Special thanks to Fresh & Easy as well as Rachel Ray Magazine!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-30T20:22:00.000-08:00

For Christmas vacation, David, Gibson and I visited California. It was such a blast. We all stayed at his parents new, gorgeously remodeled home in North Ranch; it was absolutely beautiful. I took showers standing on solid marble floor! It was a real treat and we all had the best time! Although, it was quite an animal house with David's Grandma and Great Aunt, Sister, sister's boyfriend, his parents, two dogs, and us hanging out under one roof, but we made it work!

This is all of us at Mastro's in Thousand Oaks
last Wednesday. We celebrated Grandma Rita 80th & Rachel's 21st birthdays. If you haven't eaten there yet, GO! They have the best steaks around.

CAKE TIME!

HOTTEST COUPLE!!! ...HA!

Note: I'm posting this, only because he decided to ruin our pic with this silly face. THX BABE! :)

And, take two:

...Much better.

-Build your own seafood platter- CRAB LEGS!! My fav!

Us with Grandma Rita

David's sister Rachel and her boyfriend Mitch.

THEN, CHRISTMAS MORNING

Gibson and I went over to my parents house for some elevenses, mimosa's and presents! Chloe dressed up too!

I got my dad the new Harry Potter Blu Ray for his new flat-screen - GO DAHD!

I framed a pic of David and I for my mom. Plus, I got her a Scentsy candle, YUM!

OPI nail polished for Grandma (Only the best, for the best!)

LOVE HER.

Such a flirt! He's such a chick magnet with his super, sexy Christmas sweater!

This was my best gift...next to my Very Hollywood by Michael Kors Perfume and my new black leather Coach bag. I had the BEST Christmas! I was blessed with sooo many gifts, more then I EVER expected. Thank you to EVERYONE who helped to make my holiday extra special. YOU ARE LOVED!

Gibbles with Uncle Shag. Matching!! I know, I know..they are adorable!

I hope everyone had a fun and memorable Christmas. I had some really great times with some really great people... I do have more pictures to post but they are on my best friends camera so - STAND BY.

Our One Year

2009-12-12T18:13:00.000-08:00

Nov. 30, 2009, David and I celebrated our 1st year as a couple. I was really happy for us that we have made it through so much and we still love each other as if it were the first day we met. I have been keeping "trinkets" throughout the year of items that would help remind us of our adventures. It really helped put this together, I always knew I wanted to one day make this, it was nice to finally put my idea together..

This memorabilia shadow box is complied of the top fun things we did as a couple this past year. You can't see it that well but I covered the board with a leather like cloth..then I took ribbon and criss-crossed them all across the front to make possible to hold some of the items.

(It was a good experience because I might cover a peg board with criss-crossed ribbon and put pictures all inside the X's. (Cute idea; not mind but genius.)

Christmas Time is Near...

2009-11-10T16:06:00.000-08:00

My visit to Petco today, led me to buying the "kid's", Christmas Toys. Gibson's is a red and green, double squeaker, plush, bone and Shadow's is candy-cane bag full of little toys. Shadow was a lucky kitty today; he got a few more toys for his collection (which includes ONE other toy - I figured it would only be fair to grab some).

I had to throw away TWO of Gibson's old, beat up, toys to make room for the new toy. They both played for an hour straight and now they are napping together; which gives me time to show you a few videos.

*NOTE* Petco is having a Halloween "sale" 75% off costumes & toys! I got these cute halloween colored bell-in-a-ball toys with black feather at the ends for $0.70!! So, shop up! And all of the Christmas stuff is out too!

Enjoy - Gibson and Shadow playing with their new toys:

A new scratch toy...(THANK GOODNESS)

Cat's Do The Darndest Things

2009-11-04T00:59:00.000-08:00

It's 1:30am and David asked If I would bring him a glass of water along with his now cold, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup from the fridge. I agree but...

Lazily, I left the fridge door open due to the fact that I was going to get myself a glass of "Welch's - Peach Grape Juice," once I returned. (See Photo - YUM)

...I come right back into the kitchen from his office and discover Shadow INSIDE the refrigerator!

He was roaming around the bottom shelf; I had to grab my camera and snap this photo! After I captured him, with a bit of a squiggle, I notice the little pads of his paws were all chilly. Hehe.

SILLY KITTY!! Cat's really do the darndest things.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T18:43:00.000-07:00

This year is my first year away from home and away from all of my friends on Halloween. I didn't even get a costume because I really had no place to go out here in Arizona. BUT..I did carve a pumpkin!

While I was carving, which took a few hours, I look up and see these buggers starring at me... (Sorry for the quality, I only had my iPhone in reach.)

David did "help" a bit and picked out the design for our pumpkin. It's a pumpkin face looking through blinds.

Shadow liked the pumpkin too!

So far, we haven't had a single "Trick or Treater." I hope I get to see at least a few costumes. I did buy candy! (Heath Bar's and a medley of all different kinds of Reeses's ) YUMMY - Too bad I'm going to be eating the whole bowl of candy instead of passing it all out! AH!

I wish everyone a Happy and Safe Halloween!!

From Facebook:

2009-10-29T23:11:00.000-07:00

How Trashy

2009-10-27T22:43:00.000-07:00

So, I'm sitting on my bed with my laptop...not really paying attention to the "kids" and I look up to see the Kitty INSIDE the trash can, LOL. At first I thought "OH NO, I hope he doesn't think that's a litter box!" I go over and he's playing with all the paper goods down below.. and he's also found some other goods as well - GIBSON'S TAIL!! Silly kitty..

"Al..mo..st!" - Shadow

And The Truth Is...

2009-10-23T21:30:00.000-07:00

They became best friends! It didn't take long.

They are just darling!!! Let's hope they stay friends forever...

Gibson is a great older brother!

The Truth About Cats & Dogs

2009-10-22T21:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, David and I adopted a baby kitten. He's two months old, ALL black, and amazingly adorable! Gibson took his sweet time trying to warm up with him, at first barking like crazy.. He doesn't know what the heck the kitty is, so it's quiet funny. But tonight he's much more calm, and he's is licking and nipping the kitty like it's his son. HEHE.

But I can tell they are going to end up the best of friends.

David and I have two names picked out (David picked them out). 1.) Salem and 2.) Shadow. We still can't decide!

He's the perfect Halloween gift, since neither of us are buying costume's this year. Since I adopted from Petco (Where The Pet's Go), they gave me all these 50%/10% coupons to use for the kitty's stuff so it really wasn't much at all! (David's present to us...I didn't have to spend a dime.) The kitty was only $25 bucks! Poor kitty kitty, he was a stray and him and his sister were rescued by the shelter in our county.

Here they are, the kitty was playing hide n' seek with Gibson lol. It was funny!! (I think under the bed will be his new "safe" spot.) I hope they become the best of friends - wish us luck!

Our Saturday ~ Phoenix Car Show

2009-10-10T21:47:00.000-07:00

Our first car show...

Today was such a blast, David and I drove out to Phoenix to see a local car show. There were so many cool looking cars and tons of people. David and I walked EACH and EVERY isle to make sure we didn't miss a single car.

The first car that grabbed my attention once we arrived was this pink bug! ADORABLE. It was sitting in a row full of VW's.

The next thing that grabbed my attention was this gigantic excursion limo, lifted..with air plane steps to enter, way cool! I wish that had that for rent when I went to prom, maybe I'll get luck at my wedding.

Here's a few of the coolest cars...

A Shelby Mustang! WOOT.

This cracked me up - dog legs sticking out of the ground, when you walked up close to it, it started wagging it's tail.

David's favorite mustang out of all of them there.

Hi Mr. Froggy! hehe.

Pontiac Trans Am

DODGE VIPER - Beauty!

I agree!

Chevelle - David LOVED this one too!

They also had some vintage cruisers!!! (Cool, huh meg?)

POWERFUL!!!!

An OG Woody!

Words of Steel.

This car had the "World of Warcraft" characters painted on the underside of its hood.. Clever. It WOW'd me.. (no pun intended.)

My personal favorite, an old mini coop!

The scariest car at the show.. Those were circular saw blades up and down his hood.. AH!!

COOL PAINT JOBS!

Hydros!

Chevy SS.

This car was lowering as I was taking the picture.

'Stangs.

I like this one!

The coolest V-Dub Van, right hand drive and a HUGE cabin.

Bubble Bee from Transformers

There were so many old cars driving around that it felt like I was in a flashback movie... We both had such a great time!! I hope you enjoyed all the pics. Posting them brought back good memories from the show.

Toilet Paper Thief

2009-09-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

HAHAH... So, I was changing the toilet paper in our bathroom and I threw the old roll "in the trash" but apparently missed. As my back was turned, adjusting the new roll, Gibson decides to find a new play toy. HAD TO SNAP A FEW PICS. The first one is him in pursuit, running away from me.

CAUGHT'CHA...

...IN THE ACT!

BEAT

2009-09-22T23:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, so my day went amazingly well. I went to my 2nd interview at Strategic Alliance Marketing and walked out an employee! WAHOO! It was adorable when the main guy Rich, gave each of us "name plates" ...made from a sharpie and printer paper.

There was 7 people total in the interview and I believe 6 of us got the job. We were all filling out a bunch of legal paperwork before we left. I got to talking with the other girls and I really think it's going to be fun working for this company. Our trainer Rich, is really cool too - down to earth and easy to be around (he doesn't make you feel uncomfortable).

Tomorrow, I have training at 11:45a; Thursday another training at 10:30a; and Friday our last training at 11a. Then I believe this weekend we start shadowing at events.

Basically, my position is an Event Marketer, I would be "manning" a booth at one of the community events or sporting events and pitch a product along with incentives as well as a raffle to win "season tickets to the diamond backs" "diamond back jersey's" etc etc. I think it'll be cool, the two people interviewing us have been in the biz for 16 years and they love it. They are now the managers of all of the event marketers. ALL IN ALL, I think this job will be nice, although it's only part-time but it'll be refreshing to finally meet new people and get my foot in the door.

After all that....I came home, cleaned up a bit, watch my TiVo'd episode of Gossip Girls and rested with Gib. David went off to the gym so I spent that time working out at home and at our complex's gym. I did this "Muffin Top" workout I found in one of my mags (which BTW was really hard!) using 5lb weights and a stability ball (which I own), then I walked over to our 24hr gym and rode on one of the two ellipticals for 30mins - they look brand new b/c they aren't used my a thousand people like the ones at 24hr Fitness.

Once at home and after my shower, (David still @ the gym), I cooked dinner for us. Another yummy chicken dish...(We revisited "Fry's" - our local grocery store and bought a ton of good eats for the next few weeks.)

The recipe goes as follows:

2 thawed chicken brests
2 tsp of olive oil (rubbed all over both breasts - lol)
salt & pepper
"Chicken Rub" seasoning (a pinch on each side)
Then I squirted Balsamic Vinaigrette all over both sides of the chicken.

I lined the baking pan with foil, placed the seasoned breasts side by side, pre-heated the over to 370 degrees and cooked it, uncovered, for about 25 mins. REALLY EASY and YUMMY!! For side dishes, I cut fresh broccoli and steamed it, and made rice to go with. David thanked me and said it was delicious! I guess I did good then... hehe.

Now...it's time for bed. I already set up the coffee pot so all I have to do is push the "on" button in the morning and I'm so sore from working out that I just can't walk around anymore, so that's my cue to get to bed and cuddle with my lil' one. It's also a PERFECT night for Harry Potter, I'm on book 5 now. I hope you all enjoyed your Tuesday as much as I did. I'll let you know how the training goes tomorrow... I'm just glad to meet new people to possible hang out with.

NIGHTY NIGHT & SLEEP TIGHT.

Today's Workout ~ 24hr. Fitness

2009-09-21T18:58:00.000-07:00

WHEW.. I just got back from the gym. What an intense workout. I literally haven't hit the gym in probably 2 months and man, did I feel it. I'm so out of shape. I did a warm up for 7mins, did some arm exercises with some 5lb. weights, stretched, did a few ab-yoga exercises, then jumped on this new "elliptical" machine they have, it feels like you are moon-walking, you can jump and run. It's way cool, but SUPER hard! I tried this new workout I found in my Fitness mag where you alternate intensities every so often. (See photo).

After 12mins burning 134 calories, (after I went through intensity 9: sprint), I HAD TO THROW IN THE TOWEL. I quickly got off (not the best idea) and went to the locker room for a little R&R.

After cooling off...(about 20mins), I went back out to see if David was finished with his workout, he wasn't...and he told me "just hop on the 'normal' elliptical" - well...I did. I did alternating intensities, finishing off on level 10 and burned another 250 calories after just 30mins of more cardio. WHEW! I'm beat!! I need to stretch one more time before bed just to make sure I don't stiff up. TOMORROW, I plan to complete the total workout that Fitness mag set out for me, WISH ME LUCK!

Holy Cuteness: Monkey plays with Dachshund

2009-09-21T11:33:00.001-07:00

Holy Cuteness: Monkey plays with Dachshund

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Dinner & Sunday Football

2009-09-20T19:15:00.000-07:00

Well, dinner last night was great: Chicken & Broccoli - Baked

2 chicken brests

1 fresh stalk of broccoli - cut into pieces

1 can of cream of celery

About 20 olives

A dashes of salt & pepper

Basically, all I did was steam the broccoli pieces for a few minutes until they were bright green, drained the water, then added the "cream of celery" and the olives to the pot - warmed it up a bit. I placed 2 medium sized chicken breasts in a small rectangular baking dish (after spraying with smart balance non-stick cooking spray) and I topped them with some salt & pepper, I then added the broccoli paste to the chicken and spread it all over (mainly on top of the chicken); I set the oven to 370 and cooked for about 20mins; (or until fully cooked). The chicken came out really juicy and tender :) YUM!! I accompanied it with some rice.

While eating dinner - Gibson

entertained us by chasing after a cricket (crickets in AZ are like spiders are in Cali...always getting in the house and you always wonder "HOW"). After many failed attempts and getting into places he barely fit into, he eventually attacked and killed it for us! GO GIBBY! It was all hilarious, because he was wagging his tail and growling at the little bugger. I have yet to clean the dead cricket from the corner, as it still lays there motionless.

Today, was so relaxing, after a long day yesterday of cleaning and unpacking, it was nice to finally relax and enjoy the day without "anything to do".

David watched Football all day, I glance up a few times to see the score, and we both enjoy our little man, ate pizza and drank a few beers. I was on the computer mostly talking with Meg and trying to upload pictures to Target.com - I have a coupon for (20) free 4x6 prints! (I still am figuring out what pictures and have the site saved to my desktop to deal with later.)

Gibson, or as I call him, "my little punkin' seed", lighten our life today, he hung out like a cat on the couch watching all of the cars pass by through the window. He's so funny...he leaves nose prints on the windows, which I discovered yesterday while cleaning. ;)

All in all, we had a great day - now I just have to figure out "what's for dinner" and relax a little more. Who knows what tomorrow will bring, more job searching and hopefully a trip to Target to pick up the pictures (if I can figure out which ones I want). I hope everyone else had a great weekend like we did here in AZ. Blessings to an amazing next week.

Cheers,

Sar

Finished

2009-09-19T20:55:00.000-07:00

My first blog!

So today, David and I unpacked the last of our things, while watching the college football games. We each enjoyed otter pops, it gets hot out here in AZ. I also cleaned our entire little apartment so everything is all spick n' span! Gibson got a bath today as well. He's so silly when it comes to bathing, I'll pick him up to get in, and he pee's all over, I feel like I'm dealing with an infant here.

I can't wait till tomorrow, it's a football day with my hunny. We are ordering pizza and drinking beers to celebrate our first weekend "alone" together. We tried to finish everything today so we could just enjoy Sunday together and rest, and it looks like we did it.

So that's all for my first blog, more blogging to come. I'll post my reciepe on here of the dinner I make tonight...as long as it comes out okay. (Chicken n' broccoli - YUM)

TA TA!