I don't have any huge updates to make, but all in all this was a good weekend!
Work was great, I had Wednesday and Thursday off, went to work Friday, then had 2 more days off! If only every week was like that!
Saturday we went to lunch with some great friends, got to hear about their wedding plans, I love weddings, and so excited that the wait for theirs won't be too long, May! Jessica is going to be the most beautiful bride, and she is marrying a true match and wonderful guy Noel. I knew from the first moment she told me she was seeing him, and saw her entire face light up, I knew he was the one. We don't get to see them enough, so any chance we get is great.
I did get to fit in a visit of my little man Deklin! I missed him, it had been 3 whole days since I saw him last! Mommy and baby are doing good, Hollie gets tired, and still not sleeping too much, up most nights checking on her new bundle to make sure everything is going well. I hear from everyone this is a very typical new momma trait, so I'm sure eventually she will sleep through the night. It was really great to spend sometime with Marty and watch him just dote on both of them, the way he looked at every little piece of clothes he folded from the laundry and how he wanted to share all the new exciting things they have learned. They are naturals!
I got to hold baby Deky, he is just so precious and calm. We took a nap together on the couch (well he napped and I just stared at him!) I got to change him twice, which was really fun, they are using these G-Diapers which is great on the environment (no waste!), saves them money and seems so much more comfortable on his little body. I can tell I am going to love this Auntie thing, so many babies, I get to play with them and still sleep through the night!
Sunday after church (which I got my Grandma to go to!!!!) I met my family in Snohomish for some shopping and lunch. I wish I could have went in to every antique store, I have so many projects and items that I am drooling over, but its probably a good thing, I'm sure I would have spent way too much money!
Here are my 81-100 thankful gifts:
81. When Dennis calls me by pet names
82. Laughing in a tough situation
83. Listening to Michael Jackson's music
84. the way the sunset makes downtown Seattle look like gold treasure
85. Riding bikes with Dennis
86. Slowing seeing things you always see and seeing them differently each time
87. Dennis filling out his connection card at church
88. Meeting the ones you look up to and realizing they are so nice and real
89. Having a friend that you just met hug you when you walk in to church
90. Seeing the beauty in a bare tree next to a graffiti wall
91. Watching a draw bridge
92. Wind in your face
93. Feeling vulnerable
94. Hearing your best friends water break
95. Hearing baby's heart beat on the monitor in a completely quiet room
96. Falling so deep in worship that you don't care what is around you
97. Your finger being grabbed by a newborn baby
98. Brightening someones day with flowers
99. The way Carmel melts in my mouth.
100. The creaking sound of the weather vane on top of a garage.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Scentsy
I still remember the first time I ever heard about Scentsy, I didn't get it, I thought why would you want to go to a party where all they sell are warmers and scents, not one part of it intrigued me. I declined two party invites, then my mom handed me a catalog and asked me to pick one for my birthday, at the time I was not excited about it, I blindly picked one and didn't even read the scents, just get me something fruity I said.
Than the gift came, I brought it to work, plugged it in, popped in Pineapple Paradise and forgot about it. Well tried to, until everyone kept coming in to my office asking what that delicious scent was. That was the day I fell in love with Scentsy. It spoke for itself. Simple, easy, and smells so great!
After my mom and I hosted a party and I continued to get outside orders, I decided why not join? I was tired of making someone else all this money :) 2 years ago (February 16!) I signed up to be a Scentsy Independent Consultant. I have told this story numerous times. But that isn't the exciting part, its how God has blessed my new business.
I never really jumped all in, in the beginning, I was excited, but didn't push put too much time in to it. I heard God calling me to join a mission, I did, Dennis was super supportive but told me from the beginning that he wouldn't join me, but he attended one of my meetings, the next morning he asked me if he can go too, if we could afford it. I didn't think we could, but it didn't matter, I would have sold my car to have Dennis join me! So we both signed up, not really sure how we were going to pay for it, but we knew that we were meant to go. That is when my business kicked off, I was amazed at the people I met, I had parties booking, customers calling for orders and hostesses calling me join my team! At first I didn't think about what was happening, then the deadlines to make our payments started coming up, we were getting lots of donations from friends and family, but with the double cost it was adding up. With Scentsy I get paid once a month on the 10th, I have it set up for automatic deposit and I normally don't look at it, but we had to pay our last large deposit on the 15th and didn't have the funds, so I looked. My team had taken off and I got promoted a rank... my commission was the exact amount needed. You would think I would have gotten it at that time, but it took a few more nudging to see that God was truly blessing me with this.
When my spirit was down on life in general I would get an email for an order, an unexpected promotion, charm and congratulation award in the mail, a phone call to book a party, or a random message to join my team. I slowly started to get it. But after this weekend I knew.
I have struggled with working a "regular" job. My "day" job is a good paying career, but I know it too well, its not challenging, and I don't feel like I'm doing the glory of God. I thought about making drastic changes to my career to fill that void, but I have finally realized I can do both. I can have the regular job to pay our bills and than have the fun blessed job that I can spread the glory of God.
This week was my Scentsy Spring Sprint, its our traveling convention, the home office does a road trip to 26 different stops around US, Canada and Puerto Rico. Portland, Or was our closest location. One of my team members Melissa joined me. Very very worth it, $60 to attend and with that you kit a free product kit valued at over $100 and then there was the amazing training. We had guest speakers and tons of videos and the atmosphere was amazing, so much excitement. I'm not talking about a cheesy, fake, direct selling meeting, I have been there before and heard horror stories from customers afraid that. Scentsy is different, its is hard to explain but there is something about the passion that comes from everyone involved, from the presidents (Heidi and Orville) to the manufacturers.
After the amazing training we met up with my up line for dinner. The girl I signed up under, left 2 months after I joined so I never really had an up line. Until Kim with Smells Angels finally took me on. She is amazing, but lives in Idaho, it was nice to finally get to hang out with her and her team.
We had dinner, drinks and all started telling our stories. It was amazing how the only thing we had in common was Scentsy in the beginning, but every conversation became about God. We shared our stories how God has blessed our business, how God had healed a broken marriage on the verge of divorce, how He has brought long lost family members back together, and so on. That is when I truly felt the glory of God.
I started thinking back to my happiest moments in my Scentsy journey and they all involve God, my best hostess that I would have never met with out Scentsy, I talked to her about our church and now she is a member, her kids love it we do groups together. How I can proudly talk about being a Christian and not having to worry about offending anyone. I have 3 consultants on my team that I had never met before, they searched for a consultant in their area and read all their stories, and all of them have said they choose me because of my story and that I mentioned God and how Scentsy has blessed me. Everytime I gave up and prayed for God to let me know if I should even continue to persue this adventure, I have had direct signs to keep going.
I know I can't support my family on Scentsy alone, but I know that if God wants me to, He will provide. I can put my trust in Him and continue to spread his message along with some amazing scents!
So here are a few new things that is coming up with Scentsy
Our newest brand that will start May 1st is Velata. It is the same concept of a Scentsy warmer, but it warms chocolate! Yes, a fondue pot!!!!
Very excited about this, 4 different Belgian (yes I said Belgian!) chocolate flavors, Milk, Dark, White and Carmel Chocolate! This will be a great gift, and such a fun party!
Our next Scentsy adventure? Dennis and I are roadtripping to Las Vegas for the big convention in July. I can't wait!!!!!!
Than the gift came, I brought it to work, plugged it in, popped in Pineapple Paradise and forgot about it. Well tried to, until everyone kept coming in to my office asking what that delicious scent was. That was the day I fell in love with Scentsy. It spoke for itself. Simple, easy, and smells so great!
After my mom and I hosted a party and I continued to get outside orders, I decided why not join? I was tired of making someone else all this money :) 2 years ago (February 16!) I signed up to be a Scentsy Independent Consultant. I have told this story numerous times. But that isn't the exciting part, its how God has blessed my new business.
I never really jumped all in, in the beginning, I was excited, but didn't push put too much time in to it. I heard God calling me to join a mission, I did, Dennis was super supportive but told me from the beginning that he wouldn't join me, but he attended one of my meetings, the next morning he asked me if he can go too, if we could afford it. I didn't think we could, but it didn't matter, I would have sold my car to have Dennis join me! So we both signed up, not really sure how we were going to pay for it, but we knew that we were meant to go. That is when my business kicked off, I was amazed at the people I met, I had parties booking, customers calling for orders and hostesses calling me join my team! At first I didn't think about what was happening, then the deadlines to make our payments started coming up, we were getting lots of donations from friends and family, but with the double cost it was adding up. With Scentsy I get paid once a month on the 10th, I have it set up for automatic deposit and I normally don't look at it, but we had to pay our last large deposit on the 15th and didn't have the funds, so I looked. My team had taken off and I got promoted a rank... my commission was the exact amount needed. You would think I would have gotten it at that time, but it took a few more nudging to see that God was truly blessing me with this.
When my spirit was down on life in general I would get an email for an order, an unexpected promotion, charm and congratulation award in the mail, a phone call to book a party, or a random message to join my team. I slowly started to get it. But after this weekend I knew.
I have struggled with working a "regular" job. My "day" job is a good paying career, but I know it too well, its not challenging, and I don't feel like I'm doing the glory of God. I thought about making drastic changes to my career to fill that void, but I have finally realized I can do both. I can have the regular job to pay our bills and than have the fun blessed job that I can spread the glory of God.
 |
| Melissa and I, super cheesy but so much fun! |
 |
| My free product kit!!!!! |
I started thinking back to my happiest moments in my Scentsy journey and they all involve God, my best hostess that I would have never met with out Scentsy, I talked to her about our church and now she is a member, her kids love it we do groups together. How I can proudly talk about being a Christian and not having to worry about offending anyone. I have 3 consultants on my team that I had never met before, they searched for a consultant in their area and read all their stories, and all of them have said they choose me because of my story and that I mentioned God and how Scentsy has blessed me. Everytime I gave up and prayed for God to let me know if I should even continue to persue this adventure, I have had direct signs to keep going.
I know I can't support my family on Scentsy alone, but I know that if God wants me to, He will provide. I can put my trust in Him and continue to spread his message along with some amazing scents!
So here are a few new things that is coming up with Scentsy
 |
| These are Scentsy Babies, half the size of the regular buddies and so freaking cute!!! |
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| Come on, check out that face!!!! |
Our next Scentsy adventure? Dennis and I are roadtripping to Las Vegas for the big convention in July. I can't wait!!!!!!
Monday, February 13, 2012
Miracle of Creation
The wait is finally over!
Friday at 4pm I got the phone call from Hollie that she was being admitted to the hospital, since she went over her due date they do a routine check up to make sure baby is doing good, she passed the stress test, but they did see he had low fluids so they wanted to induce her. She got induced that evening, we stayed til midnight, then left to let her get some sleep. Little did we know she wouldn't get that for another 3 days! Contractions started early Saturday morning, Dennis and I and most of the family headed back to the hospital.
Around 830am it was just Dennis, Marty, Hollie, the nurse and I in the room when we heard a pop and what sounded like a rushing river hit the floor. Hollie barely got out the words, "I think my water just broke" before Dennis went running out of the room! I will admit it was pretty amazing to be able to hear it, even the nurse looked at me afterwards and said that is the most distinctive water breaking sound she has ever heard, even she was excited!
After the epi and water break she quickly rose from 3cm to 7cm. We thought it was about go time. Unfortunately that was the fastest it would go. She plateaued after 8cm, even with the epidural Hollie was very uncomfortable with every contraction, but you could hardly tell, she barely showed any pain, she held it together and seemed so calm and relaxed the whole time. I wish I could say the same for Marty and the rest of us, with all the waiting and lack of sleep came a lot of pacing and a little worry.
Even though we, along with most of her family were in the hospital for 24+ hours, we enjoyed our time. We played games, napped, ordered pizza, went in and out of Hollie's room, and helped each other through the emotional journey. We got way too loud too many times, the nurses had to keep talking to us, surprisingly they never kicked us out!
Their OB Dr. Nathan was a great, great guy! He was so gentle, went with the flow, not overpowering and very very understanding. Even though he originally said if she wasn't progressing by 6pm that they would need to discuss the next steps, he continued to give her and baby a chance to come out, baby and mommy were being monitored the whole time to make sure everyone was okay, even with a large temp spike and babies dropping blood pressure they helped them both get through it. But once she just couldn't reach 9cm he knew there was a reason, at 10pm they collectively made the call for a c-section. I always envision a c-section as a last resort or a push by the doctor because they are tired of waiting, but I knew this wasn't the case, even though the thought of it scared me and I'm sure most, I was able to calm myself with the confidence that all options were exhausted for natural and it was time to get baby out.
Even though things didn't go as planned it was nice to know that everyone involved was able to stay flexiable, not get upset and just go with the flow. I found that to be the most important thing.
It was a beautiful moment in the waiting room as the family and friend comforted each other as we knew what was about to happen. Hollie got prepped and we all stood and waived as she was rolled to the surgery room.
At 11:11pm on February 11th, out came a beautifully healthy 8lb, 20inch baby. Deklin Paul Girvan was born. The miracle of creation emerged. As mommy and baby would be in recovery for a few hours, we stayed in the waiting room til we got the news that everyone was safe, healthy and recovering well. After the surgery we were informed that it was a very good thing she had a C-Section, and little baby wouldn't have fit, that was a relief.
Daddy Marty was in the room and uploading pictures of the newborn on Facebook. It was fun to all be crowded around our laptops seeing every new image of the baby pop up, ohhs and ahhs came out of all of us.
Dennis and I returned Sunday afternoon to be able to see the little one in person. I can't explain the feeling that I had the first time I saw his little face. All the expressions his plump lips would make, the soft noises that came out of him and even the excitement as I felt him gassy in my arms.
Just watching Hollie with her little miracle was so heartfelt. You just can see the pure joy and happiness in her face when she sees him or hears him. She isn't able to do too much moving or even sleeping yet, time will heal her, but she will have plenty of willing hands to help out. She is a strong and inspiring mommy!
After our visit Dennis and I headed to church, while we were waiting for the service to start, Dennis looked over at me and asked what we were doing tonight, we had no plans, he asked if we could back to see the baby again! We headed straight there after service!
As the boys went out for a celebratory cigar, Hollie said I could help her breastfeed her little one. I never thought this would be an experience that I would be involved in, but I'm so glad I was. It brought tears to my eyes to see the connection between mommy and baby, so see the caring way she comforted him, even though it was a bit frustrating for both of them, it was a beautiful moment that I was so glad I got to witness.
I can't wait to go back tonight, I am leaving work early to fit in another visit before my growth group tonight. :)
Oh and another bit of exciting news, before church Dennis and I stopped at Costco and I finally got my SLR! With the $100 off Costco special it was really hard to pass up the Canon T2i. I can't wait to capture more beauiful moments!
Friday at 4pm I got the phone call from Hollie that she was being admitted to the hospital, since she went over her due date they do a routine check up to make sure baby is doing good, she passed the stress test, but they did see he had low fluids so they wanted to induce her. She got induced that evening, we stayed til midnight, then left to let her get some sleep. Little did we know she wouldn't get that for another 3 days! Contractions started early Saturday morning, Dennis and I and most of the family headed back to the hospital.
Around 830am it was just Dennis, Marty, Hollie, the nurse and I in the room when we heard a pop and what sounded like a rushing river hit the floor. Hollie barely got out the words, "I think my water just broke" before Dennis went running out of the room! I will admit it was pretty amazing to be able to hear it, even the nurse looked at me afterwards and said that is the most distinctive water breaking sound she has ever heard, even she was excited!
After the epi and water break she quickly rose from 3cm to 7cm. We thought it was about go time. Unfortunately that was the fastest it would go. She plateaued after 8cm, even with the epidural Hollie was very uncomfortable with every contraction, but you could hardly tell, she barely showed any pain, she held it together and seemed so calm and relaxed the whole time. I wish I could say the same for Marty and the rest of us, with all the waiting and lack of sleep came a lot of pacing and a little worry.
 |
| The proud and calm parents to be |
Their OB Dr. Nathan was a great, great guy! He was so gentle, went with the flow, not overpowering and very very understanding. Even though he originally said if she wasn't progressing by 6pm that they would need to discuss the next steps, he continued to give her and baby a chance to come out, baby and mommy were being monitored the whole time to make sure everyone was okay, even with a large temp spike and babies dropping blood pressure they helped them both get through it. But once she just couldn't reach 9cm he knew there was a reason, at 10pm they collectively made the call for a c-section. I always envision a c-section as a last resort or a push by the doctor because they are tired of waiting, but I knew this wasn't the case, even though the thought of it scared me and I'm sure most, I was able to calm myself with the confidence that all options were exhausted for natural and it was time to get baby out.
Even though things didn't go as planned it was nice to know that everyone involved was able to stay flexiable, not get upset and just go with the flow. I found that to be the most important thing.
It was a beautiful moment in the waiting room as the family and friend comforted each other as we knew what was about to happen. Hollie got prepped and we all stood and waived as she was rolled to the surgery room.
At 11:11pm on February 11th, out came a beautifully healthy 8lb, 20inch baby. Deklin Paul Girvan was born. The miracle of creation emerged. As mommy and baby would be in recovery for a few hours, we stayed in the waiting room til we got the news that everyone was safe, healthy and recovering well. After the surgery we were informed that it was a very good thing she had a C-Section, and little baby wouldn't have fit, that was a relief.
Daddy Marty was in the room and uploading pictures of the newborn on Facebook. It was fun to all be crowded around our laptops seeing every new image of the baby pop up, ohhs and ahhs came out of all of us.
Dennis and I returned Sunday afternoon to be able to see the little one in person. I can't explain the feeling that I had the first time I saw his little face. All the expressions his plump lips would make, the soft noises that came out of him and even the excitement as I felt him gassy in my arms.
Just watching Hollie with her little miracle was so heartfelt. You just can see the pure joy and happiness in her face when she sees him or hears him. She isn't able to do too much moving or even sleeping yet, time will heal her, but she will have plenty of willing hands to help out. She is a strong and inspiring mommy!
As the boys went out for a celebratory cigar, Hollie said I could help her breastfeed her little one. I never thought this would be an experience that I would be involved in, but I'm so glad I was. It brought tears to my eyes to see the connection between mommy and baby, so see the caring way she comforted him, even though it was a bit frustrating for both of them, it was a beautiful moment that I was so glad I got to witness.
I can't wait to go back tonight, I am leaving work early to fit in another visit before my growth group tonight. :)
Oh and another bit of exciting news, before church Dennis and I stopped at Costco and I finally got my SLR! With the $100 off Costco special it was really hard to pass up the Canon T2i. I can't wait to capture more beauiful moments!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
61-80
Last night was my first growth group of the session. I signed up for two groups this round, I love groups! Last night was, Me, Myself, and Lies it is a book and DVD study group. We are watching the DVD series for Jennifer Rothschild (here is the book study). After searching through all the amazing groups Eastlake Community Church offers I decided on this one after watching the intro. Ever catch yourself saying something mean and hurtful in your head about yourself? Your thoughts can shape yourself, this is a practical way to change your thoughts.
I didn't realize how much I needed it until I got there. All the ladies are so nice, I even knew one from my dog group and another cleans my teeth! When we sat down to do our introductions I started to get really nervous, I'm normally not a nervous person, but I caught my self having a mini panic attack. When it was my turn I couldn't talk, like voice shaking, caught in my throat, thought my chest would explode. My mind went blank and I couldnt' even remember how long I had been married! I stumbled and babbled, it was a complete mess. Once I was passed, (thank goodness), I caught myself calling myself names and mentally beating myself up for the horrible speech. That's when I finally stopped and realized, hello girl, that is why you are here!!! Stop it!!!!
I opened my ears, and shut my thoughts and listened to all the other ladies, the sweet girl next to me said she is pregnant and found on Thanksgiving and her due date is the week after mine would have been. I was crushed just a little, as I started to feel pity for myself, 2 more girls down, she explained how they are going through the adoption process. I think that was God's way of warming my heart and giving me hope again. I started to feel a little better. After the video and an ice-breaker, we all shared our prayer requests, something compelled me to speak up. I told the group, I'm not normally a nervous person, and started to have a panic attack during my introduction, I don't think it was because I didn't feel comfortable, I think because I felt vulnerable, I knew that by the end I would be sharing my secrets and confiding in this great group of ladies. I think that is what scared me, so I asked them to pray for comfort as this is really the first time I have been in a room of strangers and I was feeling a little overwhelmed. They were so wonderful and said a beautiful prayer and I know that God put me exactly where I need to be. I'm a little bummed I will miss next weeks group, but I have to admit I am super excited for Scentsy Spring Sprint in Portland (you will hear all about that after I go!)
Okay on to my thankful gifts:
61. feeling a friend's belly and feeling baby kick
62. the quiet of snow fall
63. waking up to white
64. sharing something in common with a friend
65. the sound of wind through the trees
66. watching Burton do his excited dance in the morning
67. steaming hot shower
68. spicy foods
69. the burn after a workout
70. sound of changing gears
71. feeling like a kid again
72. hearing others want to do a mission
73. the right song at the right moment
74. squinting in the sun
75. wood fire places
76. problem solving
77. doing puzzles
78. seeing our gorgeous mountain ranges
79. pink sunset
80. being called Auntie
I didn't realize how much I needed it until I got there. All the ladies are so nice, I even knew one from my dog group and another cleans my teeth! When we sat down to do our introductions I started to get really nervous, I'm normally not a nervous person, but I caught my self having a mini panic attack. When it was my turn I couldn't talk, like voice shaking, caught in my throat, thought my chest would explode. My mind went blank and I couldnt' even remember how long I had been married! I stumbled and babbled, it was a complete mess. Once I was passed, (thank goodness), I caught myself calling myself names and mentally beating myself up for the horrible speech. That's when I finally stopped and realized, hello girl, that is why you are here!!! Stop it!!!!
I opened my ears, and shut my thoughts and listened to all the other ladies, the sweet girl next to me said she is pregnant and found on Thanksgiving and her due date is the week after mine would have been. I was crushed just a little, as I started to feel pity for myself, 2 more girls down, she explained how they are going through the adoption process. I think that was God's way of warming my heart and giving me hope again. I started to feel a little better. After the video and an ice-breaker, we all shared our prayer requests, something compelled me to speak up. I told the group, I'm not normally a nervous person, and started to have a panic attack during my introduction, I don't think it was because I didn't feel comfortable, I think because I felt vulnerable, I knew that by the end I would be sharing my secrets and confiding in this great group of ladies. I think that is what scared me, so I asked them to pray for comfort as this is really the first time I have been in a room of strangers and I was feeling a little overwhelmed. They were so wonderful and said a beautiful prayer and I know that God put me exactly where I need to be. I'm a little bummed I will miss next weeks group, but I have to admit I am super excited for Scentsy Spring Sprint in Portland (you will hear all about that after I go!)
Okay on to my thankful gifts:
61. feeling a friend's belly and feeling baby kick
62. the quiet of snow fall
63. waking up to white
64. sharing something in common with a friend
65. the sound of wind through the trees
66. watching Burton do his excited dance in the morning
67. steaming hot shower
68. spicy foods
69. the burn after a workout
70. sound of changing gears
71. feeling like a kid again
72. hearing others want to do a mission
73. the right song at the right moment
74. squinting in the sun
75. wood fire places
76. problem solving
77. doing puzzles
78. seeing our gorgeous mountain ranges
79. pink sunset
80. being called Auntie
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
SuperBowl
I'm not a huge sports fan, I can bare to watch some, could care less about the ranks and players, but I do enjoy football. I enjoy watching it, only been to one game, but it is so far the only sport that I will actually watch on TV. I don't really know that much about it, but it is still fun never the less.
I'm normally following the Seahawks, I wouldn't say I'm a bandwagon girl, only because I watch them no matter if they are winning or losing, but of course I get way more excited and into it when they are winning.
Well this past season they didn't do too good, I couldn't tell exactly how bad they did, again I don't keep score! Not a surprise we didn't make it to the Superbowl. But of course we all still watch it anyways. Great excuse for a party!
This year we headed over to Hollie and Marty's which is always a treat, Burton loves playing with is puppy parents, we enjoy their friends and family, and I love their company. Today is Hollie's due date, so on Sunday she was ready, belly was hard, baby can barely move and mommy is tired. It was amazing to just hold her belly, you can every once in a while feel his little heel push out and when you push back he sucks it back in. I can't wait to meet him.
The other reason I love football? Well, I guess any party in general! I like to bring food!!! Both the dishes I brought I have tried before, but this time was the best!!!!
The Taco Ring is probably one of the easiest, but filling recipes I can make. My mom makes this for most of her parties, so you know it is good! Here is the recipe:
Put it all together
For the sauce
I'm normally following the Seahawks, I wouldn't say I'm a bandwagon girl, only because I watch them no matter if they are winning or losing, but of course I get way more excited and into it when they are winning.
Well this past season they didn't do too good, I couldn't tell exactly how bad they did, again I don't keep score! Not a surprise we didn't make it to the Superbowl. But of course we all still watch it anyways. Great excuse for a party!
This year we headed over to Hollie and Marty's which is always a treat, Burton loves playing with is puppy parents, we enjoy their friends and family, and I love their company. Today is Hollie's due date, so on Sunday she was ready, belly was hard, baby can barely move and mommy is tired. It was amazing to just hold her belly, you can every once in a while feel his little heel push out and when you push back he sucks it back in. I can't wait to meet him.
 |
| Had to capture a picture of the ready to pop momma :) |
 |
| Taco Ring |
Ingredients:
1 lb. ground beef
1 package (1.25 oz) taco seasoning mix
1 c. (4 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbs water
2 8-oz packages refrigerated crescent rolls
1 medium green bell pepper
1 c. salsa
1 lb. ground beef
1 package (1.25 oz) taco seasoning mix
1 c. (4 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbs water
2 8-oz packages refrigerated crescent rolls
1 medium green bell pepper
1 c. salsa
3 c. lettuce, shredded
1 medium tomato, diced
¼ c. onion, chopped
½ c. pitted ripe olives
sour cream
¼ c. onion, chopped
½ c. pitted ripe olives
sour cream
Directions:
–Preheat oven to 375°. Brown the ground beef, then drain. Add taco seasoning and water and simmer
–Preheat oven to 375°. Brown the ground beef, then drain. Add taco seasoning and water and simmer
–Unroll the crescent dough; separate into triangles. Arrange triangles in a circle on a pizza pan (I used a stone one, works great!) with the wide ends toward the center of the pan, overlapping each other. It will look like a large sun with the points hanging half off the pan. There should be a 5 or 6 inch opening in the center.
–Spoon the meat mixture evenly onto widest end of each triangle cover with cheese. Bring points of triangles up over filling and tuck under wide ends of dough. (Filling will not be completely covered).
–Bake 18-22 minutes or until golden brown.
–Shred lettuce, dice tomato, onions, olives, green pepper, and whatever other items you want to put inside. Place them in center of the taco ring and use that as your toppings!
Of course you can see I didn't put all the pretty toppings in the middle otherwise Dennis wouldn't have eaten it. I put all the stuff on the side, and it went just as fast!
Ham sammies
2 packs of Hawiian rolls
1.5 lbs of ham
1.5 lbs of ham
1.5 lbs of Swiss cheese
Put it all together
(I usually fold one piece of ham and cut the cheese into 4's and put 1 on bottom and 2 on top of ham)
Bake at 350 degrees for 15 mins
For the sauce
3 sticks butter (melted)
4 Tbls brown sugar
2 Tbls yellow mustard
2 Tbls poppy seed
2 Tbls Worcestershire
4 Tbls brown sugar
2 Tbls yellow mustard
2 Tbls poppy seed
2 Tbls Worcestershire
Stir together, melt again if needed
pour sauce over the sandwiches
pour sauce over the sandwiches
bake for another 5 mins
I got a ton of compliments on this recipe, I got this one from my friend Natausha, I found some other versions online, but they had mayo and onions, no thanks, why mess up perfection!!
I can't wait for the next party/event so that I can bring more goodies!!!!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Beauty
Along with our attempt to be more active we are trying to be more conscious of how we spend our money. We are not, not doing things in this effort, just watching what we already do and try and save a little moolah.
Last weekend was the Boat Show (The Boat Show, The Boat Show, the big Seattle Boat Show) hahaha.
Anyways... we love going to this every year, we normally purchase our tickets way in advance online and receive free parking, although this year they didn't have that offer, it actually cost you more money to pre-purchase tickets... and where is the advantage to that? So we decided to park at our marina in Seattle and ride out bikes to the Lake Union Boats A Float, and then take the free shuttle ride to Qwest field for the Boat Show.
Great idea! We had so much fun, the ride from our marina to Daniel's was simple, flat and perfect. After the disappointing Boat Show (nothing really grabbed us this year).
Last weekend was the Boat Show (The Boat Show, The Boat Show, the big Seattle Boat Show) hahaha.
Anyways... we love going to this every year, we normally purchase our tickets way in advance online and receive free parking, although this year they didn't have that offer, it actually cost you more money to pre-purchase tickets... and where is the advantage to that? So we decided to park at our marina in Seattle and ride out bikes to the Lake Union Boats A Float, and then take the free shuttle ride to Qwest field for the Boat Show.
Great idea! We had so much fun, the ride from our marina to Daniel's was simple, flat and perfect. After the disappointing Boat Show (nothing really grabbed us this year).
We hopped on our bikes and decided to go for a longer ride. We passed our marina and continued to follow this great trail that followed along the lake, we rode in to Ballard, watched the sunset and just marveled in so many things that we see every day but look so different. Like the way the sun setting lights up the buildings surrounding the lake and makes them look like gold treasure. The way a bare tree looks up against a falling building cover in art. The blare of a sailboats horn to signal the opening of the bridge. The way other bikers ride by you with such ease. The sound of your chains changing gears. Looking over and seeing Dennis' smile. The feel of the wind in your face.
 |
| Picture stop, had to get the bikes and space needle in. |
I know that I am loving the times that we spend together, we laugh more, connection is growing and every day when Dennis calls me at work he asks where we are going to ride to that night.
Last night we took the bikes out again to do more training with Burton to run along side us. After coming to some very close calls with the cars, he finally started to get the hang of it. I think a trail ride is much better than the urban stroll!
We will be back at it tonight :)
Friday, February 3, 2012
Training
I have been serving on the Data Team at Eastlake Community Church for almost 3 years now. I love, love it. We are the behind the scenes team that sorts, scans and enters the blue Connection Cards after every service, we also enter membership applications, 201s, growth group attendees, growth group leaders, and any special events. Last year when we expanded to 2 new campuses, I was able to be "promoted" to scheduler, along with my other duties. Basically when someone was to join our team, I get assigned to schedule them for training. Which sounds super easy, even as I write this I'm like wow that sounds easy!
But it is a little complicated, and sometimes you get a ton all at the same time. But I still really enjoy it. More recently I have been able to add to my list of responsibilities. So for the last 2 training sessions I have been trainer in training :) The amazing and fantastic, she can do anything, Becca is in charge of the training and does so much, way too much for the Data Team. She has been my leader and the top trainer. I will be the 3rd trainer now, frees up the other ladies since training is every Thursday and we are all volunteer.
Last night was my first training session all on my own! I was a little nervous, I kept reading my notes and when I rushed out the door, I forgot them!!!! Ahhh how can I train with none of my notes? I get to the room at church and open our Data Team cabinet and what do I find?
But it is a little complicated, and sometimes you get a ton all at the same time. But I still really enjoy it. More recently I have been able to add to my list of responsibilities. So for the last 2 training sessions I have been trainer in training :) The amazing and fantastic, she can do anything, Becca is in charge of the training and does so much, way too much for the Data Team. She has been my leader and the top trainer. I will be the 3rd trainer now, frees up the other ladies since training is every Thursday and we are all volunteer.
Last night was my first training session all on my own! I was a little nervous, I kept reading my notes and when I rushed out the door, I forgot them!!!! Ahhh how can I train with none of my notes? I get to the room at church and open our Data Team cabinet and what do I find?
I loved my motivational note from Becca. She is such an amazing person, always knows what to say, when to say it, and is so faithful, she tells me all the time she is praying for me, and when things are really bad and she doesn't even know it, she asks me about it.
Anyways, along with this little pick me up post it, is all the training materials, notes, even the key to our fill ins (yes true Eastlake style!).
I was fully prepared to rock it! As soon as my ladies showed (I only had to train two last night) I started feeling very comfortable, and Becca showed up to support me and do Data work in the corner of the office (she said she wasn't listening but I hope she was :) )
The only thing that was a little nerve wracking? One of my trainees was a wife of one of our Pastors! I knew that before, but I will admit I was a little intimidated! She was so sweet, very pretty and very encouraging.
Afterwards I felt great, I hope I did a good job, but I know that I love it, I love helping others and am very passionate about the Data Team.
At first I was wondering what I got myself in to, I hate training at work, I have no patience for it. I get way out of my comfort zone when I have new employees, it isn't cause I don't know what I'm doing, unfortunately I know the collision business inside and out, I can do and know most positions with in my office, but I don't have a passion for it. Knowledge doesn't equal happiness. I know this. I love what I do (I work with numbers and solving problems all day!) but at the end of the day it is just my job.
That is why I'm so happy that I have the Data Team to put my passion in to and Scentsy Wickless Candles that I can thrive in. Scentsy has been doing amazing for me, I have 9 team members, great customers and super fun hostesses. I can already tell that this year is challenging my comfort zone and God is leading me to my purpose.
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