... False Fan ...

I've come to the conclusion that you can tell a lot about a person based on their team trend.  Deep routed questions can be answered by this often overlooked character flaw.  -- Are they a glory seeker?  Will they be there for you when you are down?  Will they be humble?  Will they move on to the cool kids with the lunchables when you show up with a bologna sandwich? --

As an England girl, and having lived in Italy and Spain... I think it's absurd that anyone would "fan" a team for reasons other than they were born into them.  My family, for instance, regardless of the number of times the home team is relegated into lesser division... disgraceful losses... disappointing sportsmanship... etc. etc. etc., they'll never wear a scarf that isn't blue and yellow.  (Football - real football- reference).  Why?  Well obviously because "we are Leeds, we are Leeds, we are Leeds!"  Traveling across Europe (and the World minus America), you'll notice that it is very rare that someone actually supports a team other than the one right down the road.  Of course, it's acceptable to support a team in a different league than the home team just so you have someone to follow in said league... but you still don't buy their jersey.  Why is Football loved so dearly around the world?  Well simply because of patriotism.  It's amazing.

With this sort of an upbringing... it sticks out like a sore thumb when I meet a Cowboys Fan with a New York accent, a Southern Belle with pink Chicago Bulls jersey, a South Dakotan "hook 'em".  The beauty behind sports is the bond between neighbor, the comrade at arms cheering in the stands, the group frenzy that lies behind every basket, goal, run, touchdown.  Think back to high school.  The excitement in the stands.  Everybody you knew (for the most part), everyone you loved, your friends, your neighbor, teacher, mother, father, brother, classmate... they all sat on the same side and cheered beside you, rooting for the home team!  What could be better?

... the answer.  For some: the glory, the popularity, the bragging rights, the win.

It's with great wisdom that I warn... beware of all who cheer for the team that has no geographical connection to them at all.  Unless there is a valid explanation - went to college there, was stationed there, my state didn't have a such and such team (and in that case they had better pick the team of the next closest state), parents were born there and it's in the blood, family member plays for them, the entire team once attended my birthday party, you're catholic, I am a girl and cheer for them because my husband does... beware.  Beware.

(Note: the one and only exception to this rule is Hillary Clinton)

... Kindle, my love ...

The girls new best friend...

I can not say enough about my Kindle.  Upon hearing about the "e-reader" I knew that one day I would HAVE to have one.  I waited patiently, found other items that were a higher priority, and continued reading good old paper backs.  I told myself that I was vintage, a precocious reader like myself need not go electronic.  As much as I knew the little voice inside was screaming out for a Nook or Kindle, I convinced myself that a true fan of the arts would never trade in the smell of a freshly opened page for the new age - go green - nonsense, and the year went by.  However, when my mother-in-law called to get the details on the Kindle from the hubby, I thought it was too good to be true.  The lie was up!  I waited everyday, counting down for the new release of the wifi-only Kindle 2, and going online to make a wish list.  

The first purchase on the little gadget upon arrival was "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo". Then I went rummaging through the Kindle store to find anything free worth reading (tons) and anything for less that $2 that I had to have (I ended up cutting myself off after about 5 of those!).  I also chose a few free samples that I found intriguing.  Then, to stay true to myself, I ordered The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn... and crossed over into the e.  

What do I love the most?  Oh, I don't know.  The light weight.  The buttons on both sides allowing for comfortable control.  The fact that I can lay in bed and easily read a book without having to flip from side to side and figure out a way to hold the book without an arm falling asleep or random pages fighting me to lose my place.  I love that when I get to a word that I want to add to my vocabulary I can bookmark it in my Oxford dictionary with three clicks... aphorism, apropos, capricious, ennui... endless possibilities.  I love that when the ladies pick the new book club reading I can purchase it with a click of a button and not have to drive to Borders.  I love that I can throw the Kindle in my purse, and never lose my page.  I love that, if I have little time to read and lots of reading to do, I can turn on the voice feature - choose if I'd like a man or woman to read to me that day and at what speed - and ta-da... book on tape!  

It is amazing.  The quintessence of electronic upgrade!  GO GET IT. 

Whole Wheat Nutella Pumpkin Bread

Thanks to a FB post, I just found this recipe online.  So happy it's FALL!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup flaxseed meal (ground flaxseed)
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 6 tablespoonsturbinado sugar
• 1/3 cup canola oil
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/3 cup skim milk
• 1 15 ounce can pumpkin
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How-To

1. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. Mix the dry ingredients (through turbinado sugar) in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the rest of the ingredients (wet).
4. Pour the wet ingredients onto the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Transfer batter to a greased loaf pan and spoon two 1 tablespoon drops of Nutella.
6. Swirl the Nutella around on the top with a knife.
7. Bake on a baking sheet for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Servings: 8-10

... skype ...

ahhh....

the wonderful world of skype!

Skype is an internet "bid deal" that I was far behind the curve on (much like twitter, and by far behind the curve I mean that I can't even see it).  In recent months I added this IM function to my laptop in order to keep in touch with Ms. Sarah during her deployment.  Although the deployment fell through (thank goodness) I soon convinced my family to all hop on board.  

Currently, I'm waiting for my sister to "call me back" as I grew tired of watching her reaction to the UK's X-factor and decided she needed to focus on one thing at a time.  Earlier today I spoke with my mother, as I did yesterday.  A few weeks ago my dad, having never met my husband or children before, met them via video thanks to skype.  I've sat with my friend and talked to her while she felt lonely in her apartment, and being able to watch her back for her obviously made her feel safe. ;)  I've had a tour of two homes in England.  Danica has chit chatted with her daycare buddy on a particularly cold and dreary weekend filled with boredom (the video call ended in lots of tears and tempers, and has yet to be attempted a second time).  The kids ate dinner one evening while cracking up their dear Uncle Lee and talking to him about all sorts of animals and Backyardigan adventures.  I soon hope to embark into a skype book club (see last post).  

ahhhhh technology!  

Hurry up X-Factor results... a sister SHOULD be more important!

If you don't have Skype already... DO IT! 

... Book Club ...

First successful book of the book club (we won't discuss the first month's reading choice)...

Liked it.  

I can't say that I loved the book, yet.  I feel as though I am very much incomplete with my Stieg date.  So far, Stieg and I have had coffee... dinner and wine are in the close future.  Those who have read the book would most likely agree that, while we feel complete with one Blomkvist mystery, we have only just begun another.  This trilogy could give Lord of the Rings a run for the money on "are you kidding me, that's it?" endings.  Unless you were to immediately put one cover down and pick up the next (or in my case direct yourself to the Kindle store post-haste), you end the story with the same satisfaction as turning off the lamp and pulling up the covers in the middle of a chapter. 

To be totally fair, keeping in mind that my dance Mikael and Lisbeth is still underway, I am certainly hooked.  I have always been a fan of mystery and of course love all things that remind me of the Eastern hemisphere.  I can't wait to begin Mr. Larsson's follow up.  As for the rest of the book club ladies... they are still slowly but surely making their way through the first.  (Winnie, if you are reading this, can we PLEASE start our own book club!  We can drink wine and call each other to discuss). ;)

I would certainly recommend the novel to all.  For me, the description of the Vangers and their eerie island living was fascinating.  I immediately began placing Daniel Craig in all my dreamy visions of Mikael running through woods and bedding various women (good choice Hollywood, good choice!)  I can not wait to see the big screen depiction.  Early on in the book I tied in the Biblical reference, already being the huge finger pointer when it comes to evil human doings being caused by radical religious beliefs that I am.  I really couldn't put the Kindle down for this one!

Tis the season to catch up on reading, and I give the thumbs up for diving into the first case of Mikael Blomkvist.  Good read! 

...Flintstones Campground...

This past weekend the Ortega familia joined forces with a few other family friends and took all the kiddos to Custer, SD's Flintstone Bedrock Campground.  We booked four cabins in early June and looked ahead until our mini-vaca in August.

The cabins were nestled snug between the hills in Custer, SD.  The most exciting part for the kids was the close proximity to all the dinosaurs at the Flintstones Park.  The seven little ones were overwhelmed - running back and forth between cabins, jumping on bikes, Tee ball, crawling through tunnels!

Luckily our good friends the Turner's came WELL prepared to host the group.  We had supplies galore!

Shortly after our arrival we headed down hill to the park.  The little ones were one big happy family and they all get along amazingly well.

The little town of Bedrock was filled with statues of all sorts of Bedrock locals, not just the Flintstones and Rubbles!  While most of our kids are unfamiliar with the cartoon, they were all fascinated.  At one point we came across the Bedrock Theater, which featured old Flintstones flicks, and the kids were attentive for all of about 10 minutes and were ready to get back out and about to running around.

After some much needed party time for the kids, no nap, burgers... it was time for a movie and shortly after bed as the rain clouds approach.  However, as all good parents know... as soon as those lovely little eyelids settle... adult time can commence!  We were a little selfish (okay, a lot) and saved s'more time for after the kiddos were off in dream land.  As well as busting open some beers, throwing on the sweaters, and adding some logs to the fire... we sat around, relaxed, enjoyed some great laughs, and had a fantastic time! 

                                      

After a great night, we woke up to a dew covered ground, fresh air, and the mountain chill.  Starbucks Via was a lifesaver, and breakfast was cooking at 6 AM when the Ortega's arose from their cabin.  The short get-a-way was perfect!  Another South Dakota tradition, I'm sure!

... law of the smoke alarm ...

It is by law that any and all fire/smoke alarms must, at least once every other year, go off for no apparent reason - between the hours of 0100 - 0400.

I came across this law at the age of 14.  My family and I had just arrived at RAF Alconbury and were residing in the Billeting on base.  Three nights in a row, yes you did read that correctly, we were awoken by a faulty fire alarm between the legal hours.  On the third night my mother, a very well spoken and politely mannered women, said "stuff it! Stay in bed".  This resulted in the on-base fire department walking into our bedrooms and instructing us to "EVACUATE" (a command even they felt a little silly about after the two nights prior).  As you can imagine the incident simply turned into a little joke about our typical military moves and the adventures we go through with them.

Last night, as one should have expected being that we have resided in our home for a year and a half now, our FireEx i5000 smoke alarms abiding by the law and at 0336 proceeded to fill our humble abode with their 85 decibels at 10 feet "chirping" (read - deafening screech that had all the neighborhood dogs up and howling).  The culprit that lead the pack of six ionized detecting alarms is mounted perfectly between the children's bedrooms.  Said alarm was first heard through the baby call monitor placed directly next to my ear on my bedside table.  The baby call monitor, in my wake of delirious, was quickly switched off, which led to no avail over the alarming noise, and was quickly thrown under the covers.  The husband was already on his feet and running for the door in his boxer briefs, heading towards the ADT control panel.  **FAIL - this would be the second time that an alarm has sounded in our castle and the husband has sprinted directly to the door... which would most likely be the point of entry of an intruder... more practice to come.**  When the ADT panel gave us no relief, he then headed downstairs to check all alarms.  Meanwhile, I had grabbed a pair of pyjama bottoms and was wafting the air directly below the closest smoke alarm in my path, go me!  Soon after (although it seemed like an eternity) Jacob had found the culprit alarm outside of the children's rooms and had ripped it from the ceiling and removed all battery power.  A call to ADT quickly reminded us that they only respond when the ADT fire/carbon monoxide detector goes off... PLUS!  At least we didn't have to worry about a fire truck showing up.  Jacob then combed the house for a 9V battery, as the other 5 alarms "chirped" to alert us to their fallen comrade.  Thirty minutes later we were nestled in bed, and the neighborhood dogs has ceased their incessant howling.  However, soon after we realized Danica had awoken in the madness, resulting in a nights stay from the momma in the Princess' bedroom.  She finally fell back asleep just after 0600, and Owen woke up at a whopping 0645.  By 0900 I was a zombie and went to my husband and savior whom took over parenting duties until 1200, allowing this monster to sleep for an additional 3 hours.  The added nap did very little to the progress of the day.  While I realize that FireEx may one day save our lives, I can't help but feeling a little anger towards them as I look at the pile of laundry I have waiting for me tomorrow.

  Sometime this afternoon my mum called me via skype and I shared our adventure with her.  To which she laughed, and then shared their similar experience from last weekend.  My sister, her boyfriend, and my nephew were visiting for my nephew's birthday.  Around 0200, fire alarms sounded!  John (my wonderful step dad) jumped out of bed - in his briefs - men really need a pair of sweats handy on the bedside table!  My mum, because we all respond so properly to fire alarms, laid in bed and covered her head with the comforter... Ringo and Max (the dogs) followed suit and remained snug.  My sister sprinted out of the bedroom and (poor thing) chased John around the house trying to find the sounding alarm.  At this point David (the boyfriend) popped his head up the stairs and asked what was going on, "fire alarm is going off", "okay"... and he headed back to bed (clearly he fits right in with this family).  Shortly after John had the alarm silenced, Zoe went back to bed, and the next day they all went to the store to purchase new batteries.

  While in California, this only happened in the wee hours of the morning too, which resulted in my mum and brother frantically going through the typical routine.  It also happened to us twice in our home in Utah, which resulted in Jacob calling the fire department on the second occasion and being told "probably just the battery".  So I ask myself...
A. Why don't we check our smoke detectors regularly.
B. Why does it seems as though batteries only die out in the early hours of the morning.
C. Why, if our detectors are hard wired and the batteries are simply back up, is it necessary for the "malfunction".
D.  Why do all fire alarm companies publish that the detectors will "chirp" intermittently to alert you to a low battery life, however it would seem from experience that the actual "alert" is a full on alarm!

  The law of smoke alarms.  Can't live with them, can't live without them.

... one of these days ...

... I will actually blog as much as I say I am going to!  Instead, I usually reserve this leisurely activity for moments like now: wicked rainy outdoors, house scented by Target's Home Scents Sandalwood candle, kids in bed, already in my PJ's.  What do I have to inform the net about?  Life is just as relaxed as I would like it to be.

  The Ortega clan is plodding along through the summer.  Both sets of grandparents have visited the munchkins, and we have survived.  It is surprising how expensive "inexpensive" vacations are!  We scrapped the plan for England at Christmas and have renamed it Operation Jolly Saint Nick 2011.  (Not really, but now I have!)

  It has been a particularly rainy summer, which has been excellent for our sod.  I have some upgrades still to add to the yard, but it has reached the stage that I love already.  We need to finish the fences (August job), get the rock for the kids play area (also August), stain the deck/porch (also August), and the rest will come in time (more plants, trees, decorations, etc.)

  Jacob took the summer off of school and will start working towards his degree again in September.  The plan is for the man to graduate by December, allowing the little lady to start work on her Masters next.  We like the plan.  However, since my mind never stops turning... the plan may be for the little lady to return to school for a second Bachelors.  I know this makes very little sense, but I will explain in detail when I solidify my decision.

  Owen and Danica are doing wonderfully!  I can't believe how quickly they are growing up.  It is truly a marvel everyday when you have children.  I have two little people who I can now have conversations with.  No more dirty diapers.  Owen will barely even accept my help when it comes to dressing him in the morning!  Where did my BABIES go?  Hummm.  Talk right now of a third is on hold, and will be revisited in 2012... stay tuned.

  Well... there you go.  Nothing fall out of your chair exciting... but such is life.

... long weekends, coffee, and a cool breeze ...

Days like today make me wish I had all the time in the world to sit on the deck, enjoy the cool breeze, and read a book with my husband.  Not the same book of course, he enjoyed some sci-fi garbage as I literally lol'ed beside him at Chelsea Handler's latest "Chelsea, Chelsea, Bang, Bang".  Even though my intention was to work on my tan, when the clouds approached and I had to "hoodie up", I stayed outside and soaked up the peaceful moment.  We don't often just enjoy relaxing moments together.  I know this isn't just an Ortega family issue.  All families have their hustle and bustle.  Last week in a rather lengthy Commander's Call (at least for this girl and her upset stomach), our Commander made a comment about writing about your life online rather than being out living your life.  Now, while I fully agree that some people seem to post aimlessly about nothing at all going on in their lives... for the most part, I think a 30 second pause on the present to electronically let your family and friends know the whereabouts and what-have-yous for the moment is acceptable.  It's moments like today that make me appreciative of reading blogs and e-updates from my friends.  Had one of my online amigos posted that they were outside, enjoying a nice breeze, reading a book, and glancing over at their husband at every opportune moment... I would have though "sounds like a plan!"  Not that I think others should read about my somewhat boring of a day, fueled by a couple cups of coffee, and jump at the chance to do the same; but on several occasions I have been inspired to do great things after being virtually informed of another's experience.  More often than not, these updates involve action.  However, if nothing else, I am telling you - grab a coffee, grab a chair, grab a book, grab tanning oil, grab your husband, and sit outside in silence... even if it is cold!  Unwind.  Do nothing at all.  Look at your better half and think... "wow, I'm a lucky little lazy lady".  ♥

#7. Volksmarch at Crazy Horse.

The Volksmarch at Crazy Horse quickly made it's way to the top of my "Things to do in South Dakota" list.  Once a year the Crazy Horse Memorial opens up it's roads and paths for visitors to trek up the mountain and get close and personal with the legendary Crazy Horse.

Crazy Horse was a well respected Lakota.  He was a war hero who fought until his death to keep this land for his people.  Crazy Horse fought in the Battle of Little Bighorn.  When complete, the mountain carving is expected to by 641 feet long by 563 feet high.  Many joke that the carving will never be finished, but the slow process behind this has a lot to do with the Ziolkowski family (the family of original artist Korczak Ziolkowski) continuing to refuse government funding - as their father had.  Korczak believed that if the public believed in the project, they would donate.  When complete, the memorial will truly be that of the people.

We arrived at the memorial at 10am on Sunday morning to begin our hike.  After donating our cans of food to be admitted into the park (usually $10 per person) we were escorted to a parking spot via the parking patrol horsemen!  From there we registered, received checkpoint stamp cards, and were on our way.

The weather in the morning did not look promising.  As we strolled through the woodlands, gray skies grew increasingly worrisome overhead.  The scenery was gorgeous.  Through the greenery, jagged dark gray rocks jolted up from the soft ground.  The hike in itself was well worth the 45 min trip up.

Every mile or so, the Boy Scouts and local high schools set up check points with concessions.  The trail had quite a few people on every stretch.  People from all over, all ages, all levels of fitness - a large array.

The majority of the 6 mile hike was on the way up.  There was a good compromise of up and down hill.  Of course at the end, uphill was give!  Adrenaline got us through the last stretch.  Seeing the cheek of Crazy Horse off in the distance, the burn of ones thighs and calves seemed to go away as they readied their cameras.

The view from the top was phenomenal.  We could see for miles and miles!  The Black Hills of South Dakota are breathtaking.  The air was crisp.  The rain was nearing!  The rush was great.

Until next time...

#89. Make something beautiful out of pottery.

There it is.  I painted this beauty on Mothers Day at Pottery2Paint in downtown Rapid City.  I highly recommend it to anyone in the local area... or find a pottery place in your local area and go try it out!  It is always soothing to lose yourself in an art project.  This piece is now placed on my living room coffee table on the square center piece.  It took me a while to find the perfect spot for it, and now it completes my new living room set.  Love it.

... Cupcake love...

With Owen's birthday just around the corner, the excitement of planning another memorable party has set it.  Last year Owen's party was a hectic one... planned for Storybook Island on the center patio, and spoiled by the pounding rain.  We ended up making a last minute move to Chuck E. Cheese, which not only emptied our pocketbook much quicker, but was also a hectic mess.  I didn't even capture a shot of the little guys awesome Mickey Mouse birthday cake.  


While I'm opting to go with a birthday cake, an alternative option to the usual celebratory sweet this year was the renowned Georgetown Cupcakes.  HEAVEN in cup.  If you have yet to sink your teeth into one of these tasty little treats, I recommend you do so, and do so quickly.  

While we live nowhere near a location, Georgetown Cupcake has ventured into the overnight - dry ice approach.  THANK YOU!  For Easter this year my mum decided to send a dozen to her grandbabies.  GRAND IDEA!  I highly enjoyed the "Toffee Crunch" cupcake... and my mouth has been watering for one ever since.  


So while I'm going for the "How to Train Your Dragon" cake, as I think the little guy would enjoy it more, I had to share in the enjoyment of Plan B.  Maybe I'll think of another occasion in the near future that will allow for my new addiction to be enabled! 

#2. Complete my CDFM.

I know I've been a little distance from you... Mr. Blog... but for GREAT reason!

During the week of 26-30 April I attended the EDFMT course at Hill.  Awesome idea!  Not only did I get to spend the week with the lovely Bambrough family and catch up with Ariel, I also got to visit with many of my other good friends (Winnie - if you are reading - I loved dinner together and miss you dearly!).

The best part about traveling to Utah and taking the course was that Ariel and I became great study partners.  Not only did we force each other to study, motivate one another to stay focused, and push each other to do better - but we both agreed to a testing schedule.  When it's your BFF that you pinky promised with - kind of hard to go back on the plan!

Within three weeks from the course end date, Ariel and I scheduled all three of our CDFM module tests as closely to one another as possible, taking Module 1 at the exact same time.  The amazing thing, both of us passed all three!

Becoming a Certified Defense Financial Manager is the DoD equivalent of a CPA.  Most people achieve this accomplishment later in their careers.  I will now be one of 9 CDFM Awarded in the Black Hills American Society of Military Comptrollers (ASMC) chapter... several of the 9 have already retired.  So... if you haven't caught on yet, what I am trying to say is that this is a huge accomplishment!  One of the 101 that I thought would come later in the game... but now can proudly mark off the list!

I'm almost lost now that I have all this time on my hands that used to be dedicated to studying!  HELLO BLOG!

#99. Host a Pampered Chef Party and finally make my kitchen a force to be reckoned with.

Enough said?

I am hooked!  Pampered Chef and I have a long long love affair ahead of us.  If anyone out there is a late starter on these wonderful products, as I was, just book a party and get it over with!  You won't regret it.

I am now the proud owner of REAL knives.  I also purchased their garlic press, citrus press, adjustable measuring cups, adjustable measuring spoons, pizza cutter, pizza stoneware, trifle bowl, tiered plates, mix n' chop, mixing spoons, etc. etc. etc.  It just never ends, and probably never will!!

Need an amazing new recipe?  Try their Zesty Ravioli!

1⁄3 cup (75 mL) heavy whipping cream 

4 cups (1 L) loosely packed fresh baby spinach leaves 

6 oz (175 g) Provolone cheese, grated 

1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil 

1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded 

3 garlic cloves, pressed 

2 cans (14.5 oz/398 mL each) diced tomatoes with onions, undrained 

1⁄2 tsp (2 mL) salt 

1⁄2 tsp (2 mL) coarsely ground black pepper 

1 pkg (24 oz/700 g) small frozen cheese ravioli (about 65) 

 Halved grape tomatoes (optional) 

Measure cream using 1. Easy Read Measuring Cup. Wash spinach in large Stainless Mesh 

Colander; drain. Grate cheese using Ultimate Mandoline fitted with grating blade. Set aside 

cream, spinach and cheese. 

Add oil to 2. (12-in./30-cm) Skillet; heat over medium-high heat 1-3 minutes or until shimmering. 

Finely chop jalapeño with Food Chopper. Add jalapeño to Skillet; cook and stir 1 minute or 

until crisp-tender. Press garlic into Skillet with Garlic Press; cook and stir 15-20 seconds or until 

fragrant. 

Add tomatoes, salt and black pepper to Skillet; cook and stir with 3. Bamboo Spatula 1-2 minutes 

or until simmering. Add ravioli; stir to coat. Cook, uncovered, 4-5 minutes or until tender. Stir 

cream into Skillet. Cook, uncovered, 1-2 minutes or until simmering. Sprinkle spinach over 

ravioli; cook, covered, 1 minute or until spinach starts to wilt. 

Remove Skillet from heat. Top with cheese; cover Skillet and let stand 1-2 minutes or until 4. 

cheese is melted. Garnish with grape tomatoes, if desired.

... going with your gut ...

Trust your instinct to the end, though you can render no reason. 

Ralph Waldo Emerson

A friend of mine recently posted this quote on her FB status.  Well Mr. Emerson, you were genius.  How often do I tell myself to listen to... myself?  (rhetorical).  I could kick myself time and time again for being friendly with an individual who I knew had "something" I just couldn't put my finger on.  Trust your instinct Lisa.  At 28, it's time to accept that some individuals are just CRAZIES.  

...Danica&Silica...

Have you ever had one of those days when a series of unfortunate events unfolds quicker than the blink of an eye? I picked up my munchkins today, only minutes after receiving a courtesy call from the CDC. Danica had fallen on the playground, busting her poor little nose. We arrived home, and in an attempt to cheer her up I allowed her to open the Easter box from Grandma in TX. The kids had a blast! UT Hook 'em horns shirts, cowboy/girl hats, fun fun. I begin cooking dinner and the phone rings. Best Buy. Somehow we owe $140 instead of the usual/set $19. Jacob arrives home with my younger brother Lee, hand him the phone, still haven't bothered inquiring on how that one ended! So I am cooking, Owen is hovering by the bedroom door waiting for Jacob to finish the Best Buy debate so he can show off his cowboy belt, Lee hops in the shower... and then there was Danica. Unsure where she found the Silica packet in the big Easter box, or how long she munched on the little rocky treats. Suddenly Uncle Lee, ha ing finished his shower yells from the guest room. "LISA! DANICA IS EATING SILICA". In a whirlwind of charcoal, water, laptops, iPhones, and a poison control representative later... sweat, tears, spilled water, and adrenaline all a waste. Turns out the Silica urban legend got the best of us! Minus chipping teeth and possible choking... Silica is a little treat of moisture fighting rocks. YUMMO!

#8. Become a recycling family.

Well, it has been a while since I last posted, and my 101 in 1001 has been slowly under way.  My husband just being a wonderful man, and not because he was eager to cross off the first item in a list of many, stopped by Lowe's one day and came out with three blue recycling bins.  I love him!  I'v been eagerly awaiting our first trip to the drop off on base (i.e. the "dump", which just didn't sound fitting).  However, it's taking much longer than expected.  I thought for sure we consumed more than we actually do!  So, no picture of my bins full to the brim and ready to go... but I can proudly say that we are now a happy recycling family! whoop whoop!!

...101 in 1001 update...

I've made a list, I've checked it twice.

GAME ON!

To check out my 101 in 1001

CLICK HERE

I will post my updates on my blog.  

Thank you Winnie for the inspiration!

... 101 in 1001 ...

It's been over a month!  While my New Year's resolutions were disrupted by my every annoying "back pain" surfacing it's ugly little face early January... I've been inspired by my great friend Winnie.  Over the next couple days I am going to create my list of 101 goals that I will accomplish in 1001 days.  eek!  I'm already going through a few in my head as I type.

... resolutions ...

So I've thought them through and slept on them.  Here we go:

1. More water everyday!
2.  Less carbs more veggies.
3. Work out twice on weekdays once on weekends.  (Not specific to going to the gym, I have plenty of dusty work out videos and equipment at home).
4.  More snuggle time with the kiddos.
5.  More dates with the husband.
6. More reading! (Less FB).

I know... there's a lot.  I'll post my progress!!

... 2009 ...

It's been a grand year!

2009... the first, this year the Ortega's bought their first home.  It is a lovely home!  We do enjoy the residence that has become the Ortega Castle, and all our fears of being homeowners seem long gone.

Our babies are growing and are now a little terrible twosome.  Best friends!  Owen is such a well behaved little boy with such a large imagination.  Danica, a girly girl princess who still manages to balance the imitation of all of Owen's actions... but does so in her Princess Ariel heels.

My love bug and I... still madly in love.  Yes, even the arguing, which sometimes will last for days and days over the silliest things... they are still done with love!  My honey is my best friend and he knows it!

Another year behind us, with loving memories and hopes for another exciting year ahead!  We can't wait to see what 2010 has in store.

Happy New Decade!