It's a small world after all...

2011-11-08T09:40:00.000-08:00

Ok seriously. The last time I posted was for the 4th of July?

I’m so sorry.

I swear my life is a lot more eventful than just the major holidays,

butI at least need to document those for the time being.

I promise I’m goingto get into the swing of things here again soon!

For now, here are some pictures from the Halloween Dinner I did for my

family (again).We had ‘Eyeball Pasta’ and ice cubes with spiders in them…

it was right up my alley andI loved it!

2011-08-13T07:54:00.000-07:00

I was really craving a summer camping experience this year.

And to be honest, I can’t really do more than 24 hours camping,

so this little trip was perfect.

I found the cutest ranch through a coworker of mine, complete

with horses, a general store, and covered wagons to sleep in!

I mean really, who doesn’t love sleeping in a covered wagon?!

Other than Dodger barfing on Tommy halfway through the

night and my dad giving me a borderline heart attack

when jumping off of rocks into the river that were a little too high,

it was a great trip.

Lovin’ summer!

2011-07-04T15:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July!

I loooove this holiday.

We got back from camping today and I have

a million photos, but I'll leave you with this one

for now:

I LOVE the series of pictures I got of Tommy and Dodger

during our camping trip.

LOVE.

Happy fourth! And summer!

2011-06-21T16:29:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends!

What a crazy few weeks my life has had.

I’ve moved, celebrated birthdays and anniversaries, and just plain enjoyed life. I’m in a really positive

place right now, and am relishing in all the little sunny spots in my life at the moment.

Life is truly beautiful…did you know that?

I looked over my New Year’s resolutions earlier today and am quite happy with my progress. Isn’t it funny how by simply

putting a goal on paper as a formality makes you subconsciously aware and working towards that goal? I went into the

event dreading the regret I was going to feel about it being halfway through the year and I haven’t even crossed off a

third of my list. But…to my surprise I am doing so well! And nothing makes me happier than that!

I cannot believe how much I am growing as a person at the moment. I feel like within the past few months a curtain has

been lifted and I am beginning to see what life is really all about. I have a long way to go, but I feel like 2011 is going to be

a huge growth year for me. And for that, I am grateful.

I’ve finally learned how to take control of my thought process and steer myself into a brighter place. Before I mastered this

skill I would constantly worry, fret, think, pray, cry, (and on and on) about things outside of my control and at times, completely

unrelated to anything I’ve ever experienced or will ever experience. It was almost as if I needed something to worry about. But alas,

one day it all clicked and I learned how to help myself help myself, by only entertaining the positive thoughts about life.

Really, this is the biggest blessing.

A lot of my change in my thought process has been through a change in perspective; by really looking at the ‘big picture’,

and forcing myself to see outside of my immediate environment and situation. By doing this I’ve learned that there is a

big world out there (surprise!) and my worries and fears are so, so small in the big scheme of things. Also, I feel that by

learning about others’ situations and lives it has helped me to see that my worries and fears are far insignificant compared to

what other people are going through, and it is SO important to always be grateful for what I have and have been given.

How’s that for some deep thinking? : )

I’ll leave you with a short, simple quote that my boss threw out the other day, which I have been loving and repeating

to myself a lot lately: It’s all about progress, not perfection. Love that!

xoxoxoxoxo

2011-05-24T14:34:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine is going through a really rough time right now

and I ached for a way to tell her that it would all be alright, and the trials

of today are but a small bump in our otherwise long road. I quickly remembered

a beautiful statement my boss had given me during a time when I was struggling, and

I know it was exactly what she needed to hear.

I cannot express how much I adore this, and strive to remember the meaningful

words at all times in my life. It is so powerful when you really think about what it

tries to convey, and it is so healthy to have this frame of mind…because of how true

it really is.

♥

What Will Matter

by Michael Josephson

Ready or not, some day it will all come to an end.

There will be no more sunrises, no more minutes, hours, or days.

All the things you collected, whether treasured or forgotten, will pass to someone else.

Your wealth, fame, and temporal power will shrivel to irrelevance.

It will not matter what you owned or what you were owed.

Your grudges, resentments, frustrations and jealousies will finally disappear.

So too, your hopes, ambitions, plans and to-do lists will expire.

The wins and losses that once seemed so important will fade away.

It won’t matter where you came from or what side of the tracks you lived on at the end.

It won’t matter whether you were beautiful or brilliant.

Even your gender and skin color will be irrelevant.

So what will matter? How will the value of your days be measured?

What will matter is not what you bought but what you built,

not what you got but what you gave.

What will matter is not your success but your significance.

What will matter is not what you learned but what you taught.

What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage or

sacrifice that enriched, empowered, or encouraged others to emulate your example.

What will matter is not your competence but your character.

What will matter is not how many people you knew,

but how many will feel a lasting loss when you’re gone.

What will matter is not your memories but the memories of those that loved you.

What will matter is how long you will be remembered, by whom and for what.

Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident.

It’s not a matter of circumstance but of choice.

Choose to live a life that matters.

2011-05-16T09:32:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Tommy's 25th birthday yesterday...

oh what fun was had!

Tommy wanted to have a softball game with all of our

friends and family, so a softball game it was!

I, of course, loved planning and gathering little

details to make it extra special and it turned out

great.

What a fun day! Happy birthday to my one and only!

I really, really love him :). ♥

2011-05-13T10:06:00.000-07:00

You wouldn’t believe the week I just had if I told you.

But, just for fun, I’m gonna tell you : ).

Within the past 7 days, I have:

Moved houses. Yes, MOVED.

Harbored the most horrible, obnoxious cold.

Coordinated and executed a charity event at the Four Seasons Westlake Village.

Hired and trained a new administrative assistant for our office.

Planned and prepped for Tommy’s birthday party this weekend (SO EXCITED).

Hosted a training luncheon.

Initiated a project to expand our office and add an additional 19 workspaces.

And…organized, cleaned, washed, and repaired just about every belonging I own.

Sometimes I surprise myself with just how much I can handle. I constantly doubt myself and my

capabilities, and after this incredible week I have decided once and for all that it is completely

unnecessary and unacceptable to be so hard on myself. I CAN do it all, and I WILL. It is so

easy to point-out what is wrong, instead of what is right. And really, what good does that do?

So excited that Friday is here. Tommy and I have the next week off to celebrate our

second wedding anniversary, and we have lots of fun things planned. And quite frankly,

we have deserved this time off. In a major way.

Happy Friday! As you can imagine, I am welcoming this one with open arms…

xoxo

2011-05-02T09:37:00.000-07:00

What a great day yesterday was! A few highlights:

A picnic at the lake (which included a duck that nearly bit my hand off…)

Preparations for Tommy’s 25th birthday bash

Signs of spring all around!

Inspiration from the wine used with dinner

And last but not least, Osama Bin Laden is no more (!!!).

All in all, an eventful yet peaceful day indeed.

Happy Monday! ♥

2011-04-24T18:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

I love this holiday. It is always one that

I enjoy the most. I have a problem resisting

all the pretty pastels and cute candies, all the

flowers and baby animals. It's just too much!

I volunteered to do Easter this year

for my family...and naturally I went overboard.

I spent so much time planning everything, and I

am so happy with how it turned out!

I really think I have a problem with planning

events, big or small - I just cannot get enough!

Anyway...here are the pictures from today. We had

such a great time as a family and everything turned

out fabulous.

We had an egg hunt where the eggs were filled with letters

that were worth different point values. The winner got the golden

egg!

And...just for my our journaling purposes, here's what

I made to eat:

Artichoke Dip

Avocado and Strawberry Salad

Lemon Chicken

Funeral Potatoes (oh yes I did)

Baked Asparagus

Rolls

Blueberry Pie

Chocolate-dipped Strawberries

Onto the next holiday! ; )

♥

2011-04-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

Remember how I told you I was the ‘fun leader’ for

my office?

How could I have ever passed-up Easter?!

I am SO EXCITED for Sunday! I love this time of year!

2011-04-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

Family.

What is better in this life?

We visited my Dad’s side of the family this past Sunday, and oh how great it was.

To hear everyone’s voices and laughter mixing together again, to see my cousins

growing into great parents, to learn of and love new additions to the family,

to that ‘safe’ feeling your family brings…it was just wonderful.

I love them. Like really, really REALLY love them.

By no means is my family perfect,

but they are perfect for me. Sure there are ups and downs, troubles and hard times,

but there is a genuine love and respect for one another and that is all that matters.

I don’t quite have the words to articulate exactly the feeling of visits like this bring

for me, so I’ll just end by saying this: Love.

♥

2011-04-16T17:41:00.000-07:00

Just some fun pictures from our trip to San Francisco

in January...

...oh how I LOVE that city.

2011-04-12T14:11:00.000-07:00

Twitter!

I finally have one and am officially obsessed.

@lewisamanda

Come talk to me!

2011-04-12T13:56:00.000-07:00

Courtney.

As in, my little sister.

I don't really want to go through this, but for

journaling purposes I think it is important.

Last Friday I got a panicked phone call from my mom

saying that Courtney had collapsed at work and was being

taken via ambulance to the emergency room. At that time

there was no information other than that.

And I compltely lost it.

As time progressed we learned that she had suffered from a

burst blood clot/minor stroke in her head and needed to go through

a series of tests. She was very lethargic and in a lot

of pain, and it killed me. What was happening? What was

wrong with my little sister? Was it all going to be OK?

In the span of that time our family had come together:

Tommy from work, the kids from school, Courtney's best

friend Megan from work. We couldn't go visit her at the

hospital at that time so we just sat and comforted each

other.

That was the hardest time. We couldn't really communicate

with my parents at the hospital and had no idea what the outcome

was going to be or what was going on.

She was released later that day with strict bed rest orders,

and it was so sad to see her when she returned home - she still

had her hospital bracelet on, and she was so

swollen and tired...it absolutley broke my heart.

She is still waiting for her test results to come back on a

diagnosis and the cause, and if she is going to need to

cautious of blood clotting, strokes, etc. as she gets older.

This whole thing has REALLY upset me. I love my sister more

than ever and the thought of her being sick, or in pain, or

upset absolutely destroys me. I have thought about her nonstop

and cannot seem to calm down. I worry about her 100%

of the time and cannot stop crying. I just want everything to

be OK. I know it will, in time, but it is just all so scary.

It has been so comforting to have so many people reach out to

her and my family and show their love and support. It really

means SO much. Don't EVER forget that even a simple message

to someone during a time of need is so overwhelmingly great.

The care and concern of others really is tremendous and

encouraging.

This was just one of those experiences where you are reminded

what is most important in life, how each day will bring something

different, and to love those around you entirely every.single.day.

I love my sister so much. She is such a sweet spirit and brings

so much life to any relationshp she has. She is truly unique

and the thought of her being nothing but herself breaks my

heart. I will do anything I can to make sure she is OK, and

I want nothing more than that. For her to be happy and healthy,

and to live a long, full, GREAT life is all I ache for at

this point.

I love you Court. Always and forever. ♥

2011-04-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a hodge podge of ups and downs.

An emergency within my family (I'm not ready to talk

about it yet) mixed with a wedding...things were a little

all over the place.

I thought I could navigate through the storms of highs

and lows but turns out I can't. I'm not the best person

to handle hard times in life...I tend to break down

and it takes awhile to be picked back up again.

So...I did my best to go to work today. But all I could

do was cry. I ached for my family and for the feeling that

everything was going to be 'OK'. So I left. To find just

that: peace of mind.

I visited my sister and my family, took a long nap,

planned an Easter celebration for my family, and decided

to go out and find some Spring. And find it I did.

Here's to a better day tomorrow. And trying to look on

the positive side of life when storms are above. Because

really, what other choice do we really have?

♥

2011-04-07T09:40:00.000-07:00

This morning was so beautiful.

I started out a little slow, a little grumpy, a little uneven.

But my drive to work changed everything. I had to drive

to a different office today, so my commute was twice as

long. Normally this would have been annoying, but I took the

opportunity to listen to some sweet music that really lifted

my spirits and encouraged me to always remember what

is most important in this life.

As I pondered the lyrics of a specific song, tears filled my

eyes. This happened to be a church song and one that my

mom will often sing, and the words really spoke to me.

I’ll give you a little taste:

Have I done any good in the world today?

Have I helped anyone in need?

Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?

If not, I have failed indeed.

Has anyone’s burden been lighter today

Because I was willing to share?

Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?

When they needed my help was I there?

Then wake up and do something more

Than dream of your mansion above.

Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure,

A blessing of duty and love.

There are chances for work all around just now,

Opportunities right in our way.

Do not let them pass by, saying, “Sometime I’ll try,”

But go and do something today.

How beautiful! It really helped me to remember what I

need to focus on, and what will truly bring me the most

happiness.

So go and do some good in the world today. It will help

someone else and will surely help you.

♥

2011-04-02T15:37:00.000-07:00

I have my three youngest siblings this weekend...

my parents get home from Bora Bora tomorrow and my

grandparents were relieved of their duties yesterday

so...Tommy and I are now responsible for them.

A scary thought, really...

This morning we woke up early and hiked Runyon Canyon

in Hollywood. I've always wanted to do this but have

never seemed to find the perfect opportunity. Well,

seize the day they say...

It was A LOT harder than I thought. I had always heard

about the infamous stairs and how they can tear you apart

but I figured I am semi-in shape so I could handle it.

Let's just say I just woke up from a 2-hour recovery nap.

Afterwards we did was is most appropriate after a strenuous

hike: eat hot dogs and chili fries! I have also always wanted

to visit the legendary Pink's Hot Dogs and like I said earlier...

...seize the day!

Delish I tell you. Sooo sooo good! My brother Brandon went

big:

A great start to the day! Now I'm off to start cooking food

for a BBQ we are having at the pool tonight. Oh what fun is

had!

Happy Saturday ♥

2011-03-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

My mom sent me this picture from her trip to

Bora Bora with my dad. This is what they were

faced with today. Beyond amazing, right?

This year marked their 25th wedding anniversary, and

this is the trip they gave themselves to celebrate.

25 years!

They are great examples of what it means to support

each other through the thick and the thin. Their life

hasn't been all carefree moments such as this, but no

matter what they are united as a family and as best

friends and that is what matters most.

Nobody's story is perfect but in the end, it's how you

have grown and evolved that matters most. More and more in my

life I am learning that the journey is the most important

part, and really your journey will never be finished.

Until the day you die you will be changing and learning, and

there will never be a moment in your life you realize that

you have 'made it' or finally 'get it'. But you know what?

That is best part of it all - understanding that at no point

in your life will you have achieved the perfect version of

yourself, and therefore there is no need to be so hard on yourself.

As long as you are learning and becoming a better version of

what you already are, you are on the right track and are

making progress.

Just a few thoughts on my mind today...thinking about my parents

and how far they have come, and how much they will most likely

change and improve and grown and learn. I wish them the very

best on their trip and miss them dearly.

Jealous? I am!

2011-03-27T12:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday. March 26th, 2011.

A day that really helped me to find my calling

in life.

A bit dramatic? Maybe to you. But it's the truth.

Yesterday I traveled up to Santa Barbara to the

phenomenal Canary Hotel to assist XOXO Bride

Wedding Coordinator Saralee Franchi with a wedding.

A picture on my drive up. Yes, another driving picture.

I was SO nervous. Although I have already done so many

events on my own, the thought of working for someone new

and for a couple I had never met intimated me.

But oh, how wonderful it was. I have helped so

many friends, family, and even coworkers with

their weddings, but as you can imagine it is a

totally different dynamic when working with people

you know personally. This time it was a job and they

were clients.

The bride (Deanna) and groom (Soren) were literally

the most in-love, energetic, fun-loving, carefree,

BEAUTIFUL couple I have ever met. Watching them throughout

the evening made me ache for my own husband - in some way,

it reminded me of what marriage is all about and our own

beginning. Saralee told me she feels the same way at every

single wedding she does - it's almost like she renews her vows

internally, and it is a great reminder. I couldn't agree

more.

Their wedding guests were so much fun and Saralee and I

watched in awe as they had the time of their lives on the

dance floor. I envy the group of friends they have - the

love and support in that room was so thick you could have

sliced it with a knife. They were even cheering throughout

the exchanging of the vows! So cute :).

There is so much I want to say about yesterday. From

the amazing woman I got to shadow (Saralee), to the

beautiful venue, to the amazing details that literally

put butterflies in my stomach, to the tears that filled

my eyes while watching the bride and groom take their first

dance, to the adrenaline high I was on for 10 hours straight.

And let's not forget the 5-block jog to the Santa

Barbara Courthouse I had to make because the bride forgot

her marriage license and they couldn't start the ceremony

without it. I only had 10 minutes to find the certificate and

get it to the courthouse...and I did! My greatest accomplishment

of the day, for sure. (Never mind the fact I looked like a total

idiot weaving through the crowds on State Street clutching

an envelope, jaywalking, etc. I actually saw someone laughing

at me!)

This wasn't work for me. This was SO much fun. This is

exactly what I am meant to do with my life. I am built

for this - my talents are put to good use, and the

environment is one I thrive in.

I already have 2 more weddings this Spring to assist,

and I am counting down the days. I loved shadowing such

a talented, skilled, and amazing coordinator, and I know

I can learn so much from her.

This really is the beginning of the rest of my life.

Watch me go!

♥

2011-03-08T09:56:00.000-08:00

Last night I hosted the suite during a Kings hockey game for some of our

associates at work, as a way to recognize their hard work.

It was my first time ever watching a hockey game (I’m being totally honest),

and I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed myself!

I especially loooved the fact that the players get put in the penalty box when they

fight, just like a 3 year old does when he doesn’t share and gets put in time out.

I could not stop laughing. The BEST!

I didn’t get home until 11:45pm last night…and trust me, that is a very late

night for yours truly. I’m exhausted!

But…the show must go on. Happy Tuesday!

2011-03-06T13:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was such a busy day.

So much fun, but so busy.

A charity bowling event for work, a trip

up to the snow to go sledding, and then a

goodbye party for a friend that is moving far

away. It doesn't sound like too much, but oh

how it was!

Today I feel so calm. And thankful for my

life. I had such a good weekend with my husband,

and I am really so grateful for all of my many

blessings.

Hope your weekend was good too. Here are some

pics from our snow adventure yesterday!

♥

2011-02-25T19:13:00.000-08:00

Friday.

What a beautiful word.

The view on my way home from a meeting Thursday.

Today I had a half day at work.

It's raining.

Am I the only one that sometimes cannot read the

letters on the word verifying security thing?

I've basically done nothing this afternoon.

Last night's Jersey Shore episode was HILARIOUS.

I have 2 whole boxes of Girl Scout cookies in my kitchen.

The heater in our apartment is getting fixed right now. YES.

Tomorrow, it might snow here. Yes, you read that right.

I have GOT to wash my hair!

I'm wearing black socks right now and have decided I

hate the way black socks look. It just seems

unnatural.

Guess who should be doing her homework right now?

I wish I could go to Disneyland on Sunday.

I love Mary Poppins...soooo much.

Urban Outfitters is the the best.

I hate it when Tommy takes Dodger's collar off! Ugh!

Just some random thoughts. I need to start doing my

homework now.

TGIF! ♥

2011-02-25T18:56:00.000-08:00

This is the absolute cutest thing I've ever seen.

love.Love.LOVE.

Little kids are the best!

Oh, The Temptation from Steve V on Vimeo.

2011-02-21T17:29:00.000-08:00

Spring is coming!!!!

*pictures taken from the front of our building*

2011-02-15T18:19:00.000-08:00

This boy gave me the worry of my life today.

After a walk, we came back home and

he started vomiting profusely. Soon after, he

was on the porch barely moving, eyes shut...

...I seriously thought he was dying.

I couldn't get him to move. His limbs were stiff,

he wouldn't respond, and honestly I thought this

was it.

I called Tommy and my mom hysterical...both told

me to shape up and get him to the vet ASAP - he was

obviously going into shock.

I wrapped him in a blanket and carried my limp Puggle

(no joke - he was a limp noodle at that point)

to the car and drove as fast as I could to the vet.

I busted through the vet doors like a whirlwind with

Dodger in my arms and explained what happened. With black

mascara stains and my face bright red from anxiety,

I'm pretty sure the receptionist girls

and lobby guests thought I was a crazy dog lady, not to

mention a total drama queen.

A few shots and one bee stinger removal later and he's on the

mend. The vet warned us that he is especially sensitive to bee

stings and quite honestly if I hadn't gotten him there soon

enough he might have not been laying at my feet right now.

I love this doggie so much. Tommy and I were both so distraught

today. Sweet Tommy dropped everything to be by our side, and just

seeing him pull up to the vet reduced my sadness considerably.

I hate to say this, but events like these are what remind me

what is most important in my life, and all that I have to be

grateful for: my family.

♥

2011-02-15T15:12:00.000-08:00

I love Valentine's Day...a day devoted to

all things love-related? Sign me up!

It was kind of a bummer the holiday was on

a Monday this year, but that didn't stop me!

I set-up a little cupcake display and candy bar

at work, and made sure our evening was full of

all things heart-related!

Tommy went and got a massage and then came home

to hang out with me (yes, when you are a married

couple you can still say you 'hang out').

We made dinner, ate cupcakes and chocolate-covered

strawberries, and drank a little too much pink

champagne!

Love!

2011-02-14T09:40:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Love,

Dodger

(and Tommy and Amanda too!)

2011-02-13T19:31:00.000-08:00

Guess where we went (again)?

I love the beach. Any time of year, it soothes my soul.

The second I breath in that ocean air I am a cured lady.

I love my family! And the weekend! And the beach!

2011-02-12T11:44:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful morning!

This is seriously why I love California so

much...I have my back door open, the sunshine

spilling in...it is so warm and beautiful outside

I could just melt.

2011-02-08T14:11:00.000-08:00

Today, someone told me I looked like Wilma Flintstone.

Do I look like Wilma Flintstone to you?

Either way, I’ll take it as a compliment.

She’s a rather beautiful woman!

Happy Tuesday!

2011-02-07T09:40:00.000-08:00

On the first Monday of every month I make pancakes for my office.

Did you know that I have been appointed the Work Environment and Diversity Leader

for our region and have held that extracurricular title for the past 3 years now?

Basically that is an a.k.a. for ‘the girl that makes us pancakes, finds excuses to

order pizza (i.e. Super Bowl Friday!), coordinates our holiday party, throws our annual

softball game and picnic, etc. etc.’. I guess I get to be the ‘fun leader’, if you will.

So…it was only appropriate that make pink, heart-shaped pancakes in celebration of

the month of love this morning! And plus…it is REALLY funny to watch senior executives

nibble on mini pink heart-shaped pancakes. Oh…and get really excited over doing so.

Just sayin’.

♥

2011-02-06T16:53:00.000-08:00

Just some pictures from today...

...today was what Sundays are all about:

Relaxing your mind and body (side note:

When I typed that just now, I originally

typed 'relaxing your bind and mody), enjoying

your surroundings, and most of all, loving

those that are most important to you.

I love my husband. We all know this to be

true. But...it's days like today that I am

reminded of just how much I love him, and everything

that he is. I love his laugh. I love his happy-

go-lucky ways. I love his smile. I love his sense

of humor. I love him completely; he truly is

the most outstanding human being.

Happy Sunday! ♥

P.S. I think we are the only ones that aren't

watching the Super Bowl tonight...$20 says I can't even

tell you who is playing! : )

2011-02-03T16:00:00.000-08:00

Hello friends.

Sorry I do this to you. As routine of a person I am,

sometimes I don’t do so good with updating my blog.

I can’t exactly fit that into my ‘daily routine’. I’ll try

to be better.

Anyway. Lately I’ve been feeling a little down, and

it is somewhat of a repeat of what I went through last year.

I need to get myself into the frame of mind I had after my trip,

and remember all those happy feelings that came about as a result

that long, quiet drive to Utah.

So…let me tell you a little as to why I am down.

I get into these fits every once in awhile where I get super-self conscious.

I compare myself and my intelligence, experience, etc. to those

that are twice my age and wonder why I am so inept.

(A very healthy practice, I know!)

And then I worry that I am not nearly as smart or savvy as those that

I am comparing myself to and I begin to panic, thinking that I am a

nobody and am not capable of doing great things in my life.

Obviously, this is not true and I need to remember that. I have it

in me, I just lose sight of it every once in awhile! And trust me, I know

how damaging it can be to think this way. I need to stop. I need to

think of all my beautiful talents and qualities, and expand on them.

I need to stop comparing myself to others. This is such an ugly thing

to do and does so much harm.

Nobody is perfect, and that includes me. So why do I hold myself to

such an unrealistic standard? Who knows.

The other night after an especially depressing day at work (oh woe is me!)

I decided to go and get a pedicure in hopes of cheering myself up.

After picking out my polish (a very pretty plum, if you are curious!) I

browsed the magazine rack for something entertaining.

And sweet, sweet Oprah saved the day. Her February 2011 issue

is all about making your dreams come true, and the types of things

you can do to help yourself believe in yourself.

And I just so happened across two very inspiring quotes

that literally lifted my spirits instantaneously:

Who doesn’t love Oprah? ♥

So I have some big dreams. And I am this close to actually

acting on them.

If all goes well, these dreams will be wonderful. A lot of

work, but wonderful. (And no, my dreams do not equate

to having babies -well, yet at least- so just in case that is

what you think I am referring to.)

Sometimes all we need is a little inspiration from Oprah

and some cupcakes dropped off at our office from our

husband to make us believe in ourselves again!

(love you Tommy!)

Love yourself. Believe in yourself. Do not compare yourself

to others-you are unique! Have faith in your dreams. Have

faith in your capabilities. Have faith in you!

♥

2011-01-17T09:33:00.000-08:00

Ok so can we just talk about the world's

best show for a minute?

I am in complete love with these kids.

Seriously. I LOVE this group!

I love how they have family dinners every

Sunday, how they go out clubbing together, how

they spend time together, how they have

each other's backs, how they truly love

each other...love!

Yes, they are crazy kids that party a little

too much. But...they are also really fun,

great people! And you know what? It's

very rare to find a group of 20-somethings

that live together that don't act that way -

they are just in the public eye.

I love how happy they all are - they are

truly living their lives to the fullest

and enjoying every minute. Their energy

is contagious!

Tommy and I could watch episode after episode.

Our favorites are Pauly D (literally the Italian

version of my husband), Vinny (I adore this kid.

He is SO cute and hilarious!) and of course,

Snooks. There are no words to explain that girl.

Love her!

If you haven't, you really need to watch a few

episodes and try and tell me that you don't love

them too. If they would let a married couple join the

show for a season...you best be sure that Tommy

and I would be the first in line.

I love you Jersey Shore!

2011-01-16T16:02:00.000-08:00

I don't know what else to say right now other

than I hate school.

And I literally have the

easiest schooling ever: 100% online!

But, that is not even good enough for me.

I don't know why I do this to myself.

Well actually, I do know why. Because if I

quit now all I will think about is how I was

already all set-up, and all I had to do was stick

with it. And now I am nothing but a quitter.

But am I really being true to myself by putting

myself through something that I despise? Or does

that just make me fake and a follower, since going

to school to obtain a higher degree is encouraged?

I am just terrified that if I don't get a degree

I will be a complete failure. I know that is so

stupid, too. I have had Senior Vice Presidents

at a Fortune 500 company tell me that a degree will

not make or break me; more than anything it will

be my attitude, work ethic, and experience that will

carry the load. All of which I have. So what is

my problem? Your guess is as good as mine. I

guess this is an area that I need to mature a little

in.

But really...school just isn't my thing!

All I need to do is get through this year with

my associate degree...and that will need to

be good enough for me (at least for right now).

I haven't exactly pin-pointed why I hate school

so much, either. It's not like it's that hard;

more cumbersome than anything else. I just can't

see the point. Ugghhhh.....

And wanna know something ~~really funny~~ bad?

I have locked myself in my room for the afternoon,

in an effort to finish my final that is due by

midnight tonight, and instead I am here

complaining about school. That's the right

attitude, Amanda!

Ok. I gotta just get it over with. One

minimum 1,750 word paper and a PowerPoint

presentation left. You can do it, missy!

2011-01-15T16:26:00.000-08:00

First of all, hi Court :).

My sister sent me a text message yesterday

saying she was mad I hadn't blogged at all,

so now she gets her own personal shout out.

Second of all, have you made yourself acquainted

with Kelle Hampton yet? I've linked her blog before,

and if you haven't yet I encourage you to visit

and read about her life.

I have to say that her blog is probably my favorite

right now. When I am sad, or loosing sight of reality,

or whatever drama I am having, I dig into her archives

for a half hour and suddenly find myself in a different

mood.

There are so many reasons why this woman inspires me.

Not only is she a phenomenal writer, she is an outstanding

photographer, has a great sense of humor, keeps it real,

is the perfect mother...I could go on and on and on.

Honestly, when I am a mom someday I hope that I

can be half of of who she is to her girls. She loves

those baby girls like no other. I don't even know

her (well personally at least) and I can tell.

So my point is this: Her baby girl, Nella, is

turning one this month. And if you do as I say

and read Kelle's blog, you will learn that Nella

has Down Syndrome and Kelle is doing amazing things

to make sure her little girl gets the same opportunities

as any other child.

Take a look. And help, if you feel so inclined.

You will make a difference!

Oh...and add Kelle to your blog roll. You

won't be disappointed!

2011-01-13T10:18:00.000-08:00

This picture has nothing to do with this post.

And…it’s from like from 4 years ago.

I just found it looking through my old pictures and

really like it, so now it’s on here.

And…

I am sick.

Yes, it’s true.

I am seriously the biggest baby when I get sick.

It’s actually really pathetic.

Poor Tommy – he has to deal with my annoying

complaining and ‘suffering’ when I’m sick.

I’m not sure I really will ever grow out of this, either.

‘This’ being the fact that I do not act like a grown up

when I am sick.

Well actually…do I ever act like a grown up?

Either way…today is not the best.

But alas…let’s be positive here!

I have tomorrow off…and then Monday for MLK day,

so there is light at the end of the tunnel!

I plan to:

Go to Target (that’s automatically included in every list I make)

Sleep (Remember? I don’t feel good)

Do homework (My most favorite thing ever ;))

Clean

Go grocery shopping

Make up a million more things to do, because let’s be

honest: This is how I roll.

So…let’s wish me a TGIT (Thank God It’s Thursday)!

xoxoxoxo

2011-01-12T15:23:00.000-08:00

Ummmm...my sister called me on this one.

(you win Courtney)

Remember that New Year's resolution of Diet Coke

once a month? Well...so far I've had one every.

single. day.

You can't win 'em all!!!!

At least I don't gulp it like I will never drink

again, right?

And I really don't know why this is turning into

Amanda's New Year's resolution update blog.

Really. I promise there are exciting things going

on in my life. I just really like resolutions.

Happy Wednesday!!!!

2011-01-11T19:00:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time...

...don't you love the promise that

beautiful saying gives?

I almost like it more than 'and

they lived happily ever after...'.

Because it means it is just the

beginning. You have a whole journey

to learn about and explore. You are

nowhere near the close of the story.

It has just begun.

Do you see where I am going with this?

Sometimes I forget that I am only 24.

That means 10 years ago I was only 14.

Think about the changes you make mentally,

physically, and emotionally between the ages of

14 and 24. Think about all you experience and

do. I'm a completely different person!

And then I think that in 10 years I'll be

34. And that doesn't seem like such a long

of time period as 14 to 24 did. Although I

am sure when I'm 34 and looking back at this,

I will laugh at my 24 year-old self and think

about how much I have changed since then.

Anyways. My point is this: Sometimes I need to

tone it down a few notches, and realize that

I don't need to have it all figured out yet.

I should have a good idea of what 'it' is,

but I don't need to be an expert just yet.

I'm still a baby by most standards. I don't

feel like it, but isn't that how it always goes?

I tend to hold myself to impossible standards.

To trick myself into thinking that I need to

understand how 'grown-up' things such as mortgages

and taxes and babies work (I literally no nothing

about any of those three topics. Well, maybe babies,

but mostly just how to love them. That's it.).

So...although I don't want to encourage myself to slack

off and procrastinate my life's goals and successes by

telling myself 'you don't have to figure it all out

right now', I also don't want to overwhelm myself by

not remembering that I don't have to figure it all out

right now. Do you follow me?

Ahhh...I feel like I just solved life's problems. Not

really, but humor me.

I'm feeling good about myself and where I am at in

life. Although there are always things I could be

doing better or more of, I'm going to go with

my New Year's resolution on this one and not hold

myself to an impossible standard. Perfect is

wayyyyy overrated anyways. Isn't everyone you meet

that seems perfect boring? They are to me at least.

You wanna know the best part about this entire post?

Besides from making me feel better by writing out

my thoughts...Tommy is convinced this typing I

am doing is contributing to my homework. So I get

to blog without him yelling (He doesn't really yell.

I'm just dramatic like that.) at me because I am

not doing my homework. Shhhh....don't tell ; ).

Love! ♥

2011-01-10T20:25:00.000-08:00

Some of my resolutions this year were to be more

positive and not judge others. I think the exact goals went something like

this:

Think positive: Don't let the stress creep in.
Remember to love my life, stop complaining, and
count my blessings. I am unstoppable and the sky is
the limit!

Don't judge: Bite my tongue before saying something
negative about someone else. See the good in everyone.
Nobody is perfect, myself included. So don't hold others
to an impossible standard.

I've done really good so far. (Yes, I know. It's only

January 10th. But still!) It's amazing how just putting

an idea in your head is all it takes sometimes.

I've said it in the past: Sometimes I judge people.

Yes, it's true. I'll admit it.

And I hate that I do this. Too many times I been

proved sorely mistaken by my misjudgements. Turns out

that person I thought negatively of is actually a

beautiful person, and may have even actually helped

better my life in some way.

But my point is this: People are good. Everyone.

Every single person is a child of our Father in

heaven. And he loves all of us. And sometimes

people are annoying. Yes, it's true. But

everyone has their bad days, you included. We

are all annoying, rude, wrong, stubborn...

we are human.

Just in these two weeks of literally biting my

tongue before saying something negative things

have turned around for me. In a weird twist of fate,

I have suddenly become more happy by only choosing

to see the positive in others and in my life.

By seeing the good in others I have suddenly started

to see the good in me too!

It's not that hard. I promise if I can do it you

can to. Try to stop yourself before you say something

mean, or think about how much your life sucks.

Because guess what?! It doesn't. It's actually a

beautiful, vibrant, exciting journey. With so much

possibility.

It's fun for me now...I find myself being a lot

more friendly (not that I was mean before, but I

guess more caring and outgoing is what I am going

for); even with silly things like writing emails

or answering the phone at work. I try and always

smile, and it takes the edge off of things.

I dunno. Maybe I'm just crazy. But this has

really been good for me, and I can't wait to

keep trying all year. And by the end of the

year...hopefully I will have mastered this art

of loving people for who they are and seeing the

positive in life that it becomes a part of who I am.

And I won't have to think about doing it anymore.

It will just be.

So there are my deep thoughts for the night. :).

P.S.

♥ Tommy saw Kourtney and Mason driving today!!!!!! ♥

♥

2011-01-09T21:30:00.000-08:00

We went to a Clippers game today.

I know, I know. Clippers? Really?

But...they were free suite tickets through

my work...how could we say no? Tommy brought along

an entourage and I basically sat there, eating

tons of food and playing on my IPhone. It really

was a lot of fun! Any time we go to a sporting

event it's a good time...even if I really

have no clue what is going on :).

Oh and I have to just say...my favorite part

was watching the little kids play a mini-game

at halftime. Now that is what I call a game!

Do you think Tommy had a little too much to drink? ;)

2011-01-06T11:14:00.000-08:00

Really, the last of our trip pictures.

I just cannot get enough of the beauty that lies in the streets of

this city. Maybe it’s because I have not really been exposed to

too much ‘city’ so it’s all still pretty new to me, but everywhere

I turn I want to take a picture. It’s all so new and exciting!

See the Golden Gate Bridge? I love that!

Happy Thursday…first week of 2011 has been beautiful, so far!

2011-01-05T16:40:00.000-08:00

Isn't this picture spectacular?

Excuse the poor quality...I am constantly

using the Hipstamatic camera on my phone and

sometimes it doesn't turn out too well,

especially at night. I think that's what I

love the most about this picture though.

This was on our walk back from dinner on

New Year's Eve. We actually walked a little

too far and for a good 3 blocks we found ourselves

in the wrong part of town. To say we were scared

is an understatement. Even Tommy!

I love that you can see the skyline and the

TransAmerica tower. I've said it before and

I'll say it again: San Francisco is an

amazing city.

Love!

2011-01-03T20:57:00.000-08:00

I love this boy. Really, really, really love him.

Did you know that? Well now you do.

2011-01-03T20:42:00.000-08:00

We spent most of our time this trip in Fisherman's

Wharf; our hotel was a block away, so it naturally

was the easiest place to visit.

This place has so much personality...from the crab vendors

lining the streets to the buckets and buckets of seafood

to the never-ending fish smell, it really is the

sterotypical sleepy fisherman's town.

We ate at Boudin Bakery twice - with its clam

chowder bowls and all, it is simply delicious.

And warm. Do you realize how cold San Francisco is?

Silly me...I assume that because it is still

California the weather will of course be the same

as my hometown. This is now the second time I have

visited this glorious place, only to end up freezing

my butt off. And trust me, with as much cushion my bum

has, that is a hard thing to do people!

The only bad thing about this place? Well...you know

that fish smell I told you about? It is always there.

As in...when you first wake up, all bright-eyed and

bushy-tailed, the fish smell is there to greet you like

an old friend.

An experience everyone should have, really!

♥

2011-01-02T18:55:00.000-08:00

I'll leave you with one last post for today.

Don't you just love this picture?

I absolutely adore the fact that San Francisco has

kept its signature symbols, such as this cable car.

Its amazing to hear the bells ringing through

the streets as you wander the city; it just adds to

the overall experience!

Too bad we still have not rode on one! (Yes, I know. Its

just that we love walking the city and feel that if

we take one, we will miss something in the streets.

We'll get there some day.)

Anyways...I'm off to go and work out now. How's that

for keeping up resolutions?! Yay!

2011-01-02T18:29:00.000-08:00

Ok so I really like lists.

And I really like being able to cross things off

of those lists.

So...a new year is a lot of fun for me.

This is not a complete list of my resolutions;

some are a little too personal to be sharing

on my blog. And why would you guys care about work

and finances and things like that anyway? Well

actually, come to think of it, I'm not sure you

care about any of my resolutions. But here they are...

so take them as you will.

Put Tommy first-always: I know this should already

be something that I practice. As sad as it is,

I ~~always~~ sometimes tend to act like a princess

and can be a little selfish. The sad part is that

my sweet, sweet husband goes right along with my

prima donna act and takes care of my every need.

He needs and deserves the same love and care.

Decorate a cake with fondant: I have always wanted

to do this, and this is the year!

Learn to knit: Think of all the blankets, booties,

hats, etc. for my future babies!

Think positive: Don't let the stress creep in.

Remember to love my life, stop complaining, and

count my blessings. I am unstoppable and the sky is

the limit!

Don't judge: I hate that I posses this ugly quality.

I need to bite my tongue before saying something

negative about someone else. This is not the person

I am or want to be. I want to see the good in everyone.

Nobody is perfect, myself included. So don't hold others

to an impossible standard.

Make Sundays a family day: No work. No school. No chores.

Make one home cooked meal a week: Although we mostly

eat at home, I am not going to count a quesadilla or

tuna sandwich as a 'home cooked meal'. I'm talkin'

meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, pies...you get

the picture.

No french fries: Yep! You heard that right!

Diet Coke once a month: Yep! You heard that right too!

Work out at least 3 times a week: 'Nuff said!

Learn more about my camera and strive to be a

better photographer: Beautiful pictures can be one

of the greatest legacies I leave behind.

Be more thoughtful: Celebrate someone simply because

they are great. Get to know people better. Really

listen when people talk. Care more about someones

day and life.

This may seem like a tall order, but for a girl

that tends to have high energy and an overachiever

attitude, this is totally reasonable.

Happy 2011!

2011-01-02T09:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

We just got back from a trip to one of the best

cities: San Francisco. I seriously love that city.

Amazing.

I am so excited a new year is upon us. I love a fresh

start. I love making new goals for myself and the

opportunity a new year brings. So, happy 2011!

It's going to be my best year yet - I assure

you of that :).

For now I'll leave you with a picture of us in

Fishman's Wharf - do you see us?

2010-12-29T21:03:00.000-08:00

Oh and P.S.? Remember how I told

you I was really jealous when my

sister got Kardashian Konfidential for

Christmas?

Well here's the picture to prove it!

2010-12-29T20:57:00.000-08:00

Just a few of my favorite pictures

of this Christmas...

2010-12-28T08:51:00.000-08:00

First off, I've been a fan of this family

for a looong time. I just love them.

My mom bought me this book as a late Christmas

present (after I threw a fit that my sister got

it and I didn't...whoopsies :)) and so far I

LOVE it.

I seriously adore these girls (especially Kim).

Some people may not take them too seriously, but

I firmly believe they are a solid family built on

a good foundation. And I can relate to them a lot.

That's all for today. 2 days until we leave for

San Francisco!

2010-12-27T09:34:00.000-08:00

I love this picture.

Of course, my family went to Disneyland to celebrate Christmas.

And it was magical.

An added bonus? My brother Grant who is currently serving in the Air Force

flew in to join us, and my Aunt Julie and 2 cousins from Colorado came

to celebrate with us as well.

The entire back row is our family, and the 3 boys in the second row on the left

side are ours too : ).

Pretty good looking group we are!

2010-12-24T06:55:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

I have a weekend packed-full of family,

friends, and celebrating life. And I hope

you do too.

♥

2010-12-22T16:26:00.000-08:00

Ok I’m sorry but I just had to share these.

This would be me, the author of this blog, taking

creepy pictures at her desk at work instead of

actually working.

This is how we get ahead here, people.

No I’m just kidding. But really.

I feel like I am the only one here right now.

I swear…December 20th hit and all of the sudden

my coworkers are leaving saying the coveted

“see you next year!”. C’mon guys. Remember

us little ones here that still have to work.

So you know what? Because they don’t have

to work I don’t have to either!

No I’m just kidding about that too. But really.

I just needed a break and what is more appropriate

than taking pictures of yourself looking like a

creepster? Fun times!

I have 45 minutes until I can leave. 45 miiinnnnuuuutttteeesss….

Tonight I have to drive to the valley to pick up a package

from FedEx for my Dad’s Christmas present. What was the

point of even ordering it online then?

Ok this is all for now. There is no point to my rambling.

Other than to let me escape for a minute.

Now I’m back to reconciling 3 months worth of credit card

statements for my boss and then organizing our initiatives for

next year. Lucky me!

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

2010-12-20T15:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I bought a glue gun.

Does that make me a legitimate woman/Mormon wife/blogger?

Any way you look at it, I felt very proud. I can now glue

away to my heart’s content making holiday crafts, repairing things

around the house…oh the possibilities!

I promptly made a holiday wreath by gluing together ball ornaments

with said glue gun and you know what? It actually turned out to be

pretty darn cute. Want proof?

(it’s missing a bow at the top…I’ll get around to that soon)

It has been so wonderful around these parts lately. The rain has not

stopped for 4 days now…and it’s the closest we are going to come

to that snowy, marshmallow-y Christmas weather other states have

the privilege of enjoying. All weekend I stayed in my cozy home with

the candles lit watching Christmas movies with Mr. Lewis and Dodgie boy.

It was just beautiful.

Just a mere 4 days until Christmas…EEEKKK!!!

2010-12-14T19:28:00.000-08:00

I have been feeling so much inspiration from other bloggers lately. Seriously. there are some majorly talented ladies out there. Too often I have found myself deep into thought - pouring
over their pages, crying, laughing, smiling...feeling.

People say the internet is bad. And to an extent, I agree it can be harmful. But I also think that it can join people together that would have otherwise never had the chance to meet. Just like me and my fellow blogging ladies. I will tell you again: they are wonderful. This may sound a little...I dunno...pathetic? But sometimes when I have a bad day and feel that I have no friends, or nobody is on my side, or there is really no other women out there like me, I suddenly remember all the ladies I have found through blogging and instantly feel like I have this amazing circle of friends. If only we could actually be friends in real life. Oh how wonderful!

I have decided that in 2011 I want to push myself to be more like them. Write more, and not just about the silly little things that happen in my life. Just write about my feelings, and what's going on in this crazy head of mine at the moment. I want someone to read my blog like I have done to these ladies and really get a sense of who I am, what I stand for, and what I love about life. I want them to laugh with me, cry with me, share my joy and share my sorrows.

Hmph. <--That's a word and a complete sentance, by the way. : ). I don't know what to say other than I am grateful for the beautiful words and happy thoughts these ladies choose to share. That really have made me want to be a better person. And for that, I love them so.

Curious as to whom exactly I am referring to? Just a few of my favorites are...

Kelle Hampton
Busy Bee Lauren
Nat The Fat Rat

That's all for now. I love these ladies and hope you will too!

2010-12-05T13:29:00.000-08:00

We took my little brother Brandon and my

little sister Brooke to Disneyland yesterday.

It was so beautiful, like always.

I find that there is always a bit of magic

that happens every time I visit that special

place. Something out of the ordinary will

occur, and it just adds to the overall

effect.

Last night as we were walking down Main Street

they had an amazing candlelight ceremony set up

in the town square with the most beautiful

Christmas program. The choir was phenomenal

and tears instantly filled my eyes.

There was something so enchanting about walking

down Main Street in one of my most favorite

places, looking around at all of the beautiful

decorations, and hearing voices of the choir

singing out old Christmas songs that feel so

familiar they are like family.

I have thought a lot about my love for Disney

and what exactly it is about it, and I can truly

say that I believe it is the overall theme: dreams

come true, there is a kid in everyone, it's a

small world, love one another, believe in yourself,

etc. When I immerse myself in the dreams that Disneyland

creates, I feel so empowered and happy.

This may be hard to understand for some people. It is

just a theme park after all. But I love it and it is

much more than a theme park for me. It represents everything

I believe in, and every time I visit I am reminded of what

I love most about life.

Back to reality. I hate this part!

2010-11-27T09:36:00.000-08:00

A picture of Tommy outside of Bob's Big Boy

during a routine pit stop on our trek to

Arizona this week.

Hi.

Where have I been, you ask?

Sometimes I just need a break. I know

you know how this goes. Nothing bad or anything,

just a break.

We just got back from Arizona last night. We spent

Thanksgiving with my grandparents. It was delicious.

But want to hear the best part? My mom is doing

another dinner for us tomorrow, as unfortunately

our entire family could not make it to Arizona.

Lucky me!

Did you know that in Arizona, for what Tommy and I

are paying in rent right now for our dinky 2 bedroom

apartment, we could own a brand new, 4 bedroom house?

Let's just say it got our minds thinking...

...more on that later. I really need to do my homework

now. Have I ever told you how much I hate homework?

Well now you know. I hate homework.

Also, our heater is broken in the house and I am

hunched over a tiny space heater to keep warm.

It's pretty pathetic.

Anyways...I need to finish my homework now so I can do

more entertaining things like make my shopping list for

all the pies I am making tomorrow, go to Target, decorate

our house for Christmas, and continue planning our

holiday party for work!

Happy Saturday. And Happy Thanksgiving. Life is good...

...remember that.

Be grateful!

xoxoxoxoxoxo

2010-11-07T08:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the most perfect Saturday.

A morning hike, a long nap, a yummy lunch,

a dinner date, a movie, and some shopping.

I love days like this. Days where you get to

enjoy your life and all your blessings.

It is very rare that Tommy and I have time

for just the two of us, with no other to-dos

going on, so I soaked it all in.

Happy weekend!

2010-11-04T12:29:00.000-07:00

So I had the nicest little surprise in my mailbox last night.

A dear childhood friend, Ms. Taylor Kaye, sent me a handwritten

card for some encouragement because of all my bad days lately.

I love her. I love this idea. Please always remember how such

a small gesture can do so much for someone. I stood at my mailbox

with tears in my eyes, so thankful for the beautiful, caring people in

my life. I hope that I can continue to learn from their examples and

be just like them someday : ).

2010-11-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

Remember how one of my goals for fall was to make

an Apple Pie?

~~Cross that off my list!~~

I looove this recipe; SO simple and SO good.

And…the experience would not have been complete

without a little Puggle sitting at my feet waiting for

an Apple skin!

Apple Pie

5 tart, peeled Apples, sliced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup Sugar

2 tablespoons Flour

1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon Salt

1 tablespoon Cider Vinegar

Pie crust (split into two, to allow for a topper)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Prepare pie pan with bottom crust

In large mixing bowl combine the following:

Sugar
Flour
Cinnamon
Salt
Cider Vinegar

Add apple pieces to sugar mixture; stir to coat evenly over each piece

Transfer apple pieces to pie crust

Assemble pie crust topper, ensuring edges are sealed

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown

2010-10-31T20:06:00.000-07:00

(I think these two pictures -above and below- are what

Dodger REALLY thinks of his costume!)

Some sights that can be see around our

house tonight...

Tommy and I are watching Ghost Hunters while

eating leftover Pumpkin cookies and getting ready

to turn Casper on, in addition to playing with our

cute Bumble Bee Piggy-boy, all while passing out

candy to the trick-or-treaters.

What a busy life we lead! Happy Halloween!

: )

2010-10-31T09:55:00.000-07:00

Tommy and I hosted a little Halloween dinner

slash pumpkin carving party for my family last

night.

Remember how I wanted to find a good chili recipe

for fall? ~~Check that off my list!~~

Our menu was delish and I am quite proud of myself,

if I do say so myself!

We ate our hearts out:

Kettle Corn

Cornbread Muffins

Green Beans with lemon butter sauce

Corn Chili

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip cookies

Apple Pie

Bottled Root Beer

Everyone squeezed into our tiny apartment.

It was tight, but I was so happy to have my family

over. I love them.

I told Tommy that one day when we actually have a

house to fit people, a Halloween party will be our

signature event. It's just too much fun!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-27T09:07:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back I hosted a baby shower for three coworkers that

are expecting babies within weeks of each other. Yes, three!

It is no secret that event planning is my favorite part of my job.

I maybe already have our holiday party décor planned and have even

starting purchasing a few items.

What can I say? I truly enjoy doing it.

Not only go I love the creative process, but I love all the planning and coordination

too. I’m the weirdo that thrives off of organization and literally gets giddy when

all goes according to plan. It’s just how I roll.

So that’s all great…but the BEST part of hosting events is the memories you create

for those you are celebrating. Think about it: almost every event is celebrating a

positive milestone, accomplishment, etc. What could be better than helping someone

carry out their vision of the celebration?

Anyway…let’s just say that a legitimate dream of mine is to one day own

my own event planning business (and maybe recruit my sister to be my partner.

She shares the same dream!). I have already starting doing research on what

it would entail, and I am a firm believer that anything you set your heart on

is possible. Wish me luck!

For my own journaling purposes, here are a few pictures of the event.

I love celebrating babies, and this turned out to be a great party.

Have a good day!

P.S. If anyone wants to hire me for a very small fee to help with your event,

please let me know. I need to build-up my portfolio! My area can be

anywhere from Orange County up to Santa Barbara. Email me at

lewisamanda@live.com if you are interested!

2010-10-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

I love him. For so many reasons.

But today, my love for him is dedicated to

his positive attitude during my ‘crazy’ episode this weekend.

He didn’t even blink an eye - just went with the flow of things

and followed me blindly into our trip. He understood what I

needed. He always does.

I love you Tommy.

I may be crazy sometimes. I may be sad. I may be childlike.

I may be confused.

But…I may also be your completely devoted one and only.

And the one to love you forever.

You really are taking those vows to heart…staying by my side

like the light at the end of the tunnel.

I love you. I love you. I love you.

That’s all for today.

2010-10-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

How could I forget...

...one of the funniest parts of our

trip was sneaking this guy into the

hotel.

An image that is now burned into my brain:

Tommy running down the hotel hallway

in the morning carring Dodger in a

sheet, with nothing but his little piggy tail

hanging out in the back.

Absolutely priceless!

2010-10-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

Some more pictures from our trip.

Maybe they are just rocks to you,

but I cannot put into words how

amazing this place is. The name

Zion is perfect.

♥

2010-10-25T12:58:00.000-07:00

I did something completely out of character this weekend.

As you can gather from my previous post, I have been struggling lately.
In a big way.

In an effort to not highlight the negative phases in my life, I’ll just say
that I am going through major growing pains right now and am learning
a lot about myself, my life, and what I truly want out of it.

I am a bit of a control freak. Oh hell…who am I kidding? I am
the world’s BIGGEST control freak. Everything has a plan, a purpose,
a methodology…no detail is left untouched.

I lost it this weekend. My crazy ways reached an all-time high.
I woke up at the start of my weekend and instantly felt the pressure and
anxieties of my life creeping in. And I could not take one more ounce of it.

So…I decided to leave. To flee my life and all of my responsibilities, and
actually live my life. I told Tommy to pack his clothes for the next day
and a half. We put Dodger in the back seat, filled our tank of gas…and left.

We had no idea where we were headed. All I knew was that I had to get
away; I could no longer deal with my current life. We were going wherever
our hearts desired; wherever the car took us; wherever we landed.

We ended up 7 and a half hours away in Springdale, Utah: home of the
beautiful Zion National Park. I have amazing childhood memories of this
glorious place, and have always wanted to share its beauty with Tommy.
So I did.

We were only there for a mere 8 hours or so. But it didn’t matter.
The thrill and spontaneity of the event is what left us content.
We experienced life in real-time: no planning, no controlling –
just living.

I feel so refreshed this morning. My head is clear and I once-again
realize what a big world we have out there. What a life I have ahead of me.
What beauty there is to be seen.

2010-10-22T13:49:00.000-07:00

A bouquet of flowers left on my desk from a sweet

coworker of mine, hoping to cheer up my day. I

love her.

I have had an especially hard time lately.

Life just gets to you sometimes, you know?

People are mean. Things are out of your control.

You think you have everything figured out, but you are

so far from that it’s not even funny.

I have cried almost every day for the past 3 weeks.

(and no, I am not pregnant)

My life has spun out of control, and I am really the

only one to blame.

But…I think I’m slowly coming back now. Through

a lot of loving words, hugs, and advice, I’ve learned

through others that we all have been to that place

at some point in our lives. And will mostly likely

live through similar phases again. It’s just a part

of growing up, and you gain strength from times

like these.

The point where you fail. And you fail miserably.

And you realize that life isn’t perfect. And you cannot

do everything. And that you need others around you

in order for you to succeed. You simply cannot do it alone.

I have been blessed with so many great people in my life.

People that have helped me in one way or another by sharing

their life experiences and wisdom. People that see my talents

and strengths, and remind me to nurture and strengthen them.

I continue to be reminded how much a small gesture or

casual ‘how are you?’ can mean to someone. Because I’ve been

a recipient of all of that love recently.

It’s times like this that I remember the world is good. And

although I have a lot going on, and (some) people will be

mean, and I cannot control everything…there is still so much to

smile about.

Please remember that with me.

You are beautiful. Life is simple. People are good.

The little things are what matter the most. Be yourself.

Don’t be afraid to fail. Embrace your shortcomings.

Learn from your mistakes. Do not judge others. Ask for

help. Share your wisdom. Share your laughter.

Hug. Smile. Breathe.

But most of all…love.