Gabrielle in Denver

Let The Sunshine In

2014-07-30T14:17:00.003-06:00

So, I fell behind again and here we are at the beginning of August already! Where has the summer gone? Around here we have enjoyed our time without super structured schedules. I love the warmer weather and the opportunities to go to the pool and get all my workouts in while being outside.

I have only had one work trip, with another coming up next week. It has been nice to be home and able to enjoy the summer - I can’t remember having one this laid back for a while. That’s not to say that things haven’t been totally crazy at work – just a different type of insanity that I can tackle from the home office in my cutoffs and t-shirts, instead of on the plane between locations and time zones.

So, in a laid back type of style – some photos from graduation and our summer(disclaimer - these are not high quality photos - just fun ones:-) I am in the process of setting up a new photography site…..)

Congrats to the Salutatorian...

And scholarship recipient...

And goof ball...!!!

Confirmation with Father Paul

We enjoyed our time in Rome!

And flying over the French Alps.

Gus turned 12 years old - but doesn't look or act a day over 6!

Nic played a lot of soccer....Club Inka Peru

On top of Trail Ridge - Rocky Mountain National Park

Just one of many breathtaking views from one of my favorite places on earth - right in my own home state of Colorado!!!

So tell me - what have you been up to this summer?

Viva Italia!!!

2014-06-16T22:00:00.001-06:00

So many things have happened since my last post!!! I just haven't had time to write much lately....so a few Facebook posts here and there are all I've gotten to.
A quick recap: Nic graduated as Solutatorian from high school, went to visit his new college and we went to Italy! Yes - we went to Italy!!! Soon I will post a summary of graduation and college events, but for now, here are a few Italy memories that I have been excited to share!

Ever since we found our relatives in southern Italy, I have been fascinated with finding a link to them. Many people have told my mother that this name is really Spanish - but we were able to verify that we are true Italians!

St. Peter's was amazing a! The crowds were ridiculous that day at the Vatican, and it was quite hot - but is was so worth it! Such a beautiful and sacred place.

The the churches in Italy are beautiful...such amazing artwork and history.

The architecture in Rome is a mix of old....and older...mixed with the modern.

The Vatican - amazing experience!

My favorite! Assisi - what a gem of a town. I immediately felt at ease and comfortable here. Such a beautiful spot.

I'm so glad we we went. It was a wonderful experience, even if the customs guy in Italy neglected to stamp my passport....at least I have the photos!!!

Working backwards through my summer, I will write a post about Nic's graduation soon, and include the video of his Solutatorian speech soon....

Ciao for now!

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Why is it Wrong to be an Only Child?

2014-04-14T07:58:00.001-06:00

Nic and I had a wonderful weekend. For the most part.

Saturday night proved challenging though - for both of us. I had a feeling it would, as it was the last fundraiser event for high school. My last time attending, and Nic's first and only - thank goodness!

People behave so poorly at these events, and I had really hoped he wouldn't have to experience some of what goes on at those things. But, in retrospect, he needed to see and know and all these things make him stronger, and he is an adult after all!

Nic is an only child. I am a single mother. Neither of these things is "bad" and we are both sick of people telling us how sorry they are to hear that or that it's "too bad." Why is there such a stigma with these so called "Catholic" families around only having one child? Apparently it is amazing that he is graduating, let alone at the top of his class and preparing to attend Creighton University this fall on academic scholarship.

I have a great job and supportive family. I am not, and never have been on food stamps or welfare, and above all I am happy, and faithful with God in my heart. I truely know that Nic and I have a clearer understating of the Catholic faith than most, and we live in harmony with it given our "unusual" circumstances. I want to be clear here as well - none of our priests, sisters or brothers have ever treated us in the manner that many families have. I think this is why it's important to understand that this post in no way criticizes my religion - I only wish to point out that people can be cruel in the name of that religion, and that is quite the opposit of what we are taught at Christians.

I am venting, and this was not the original intention of this blog....so I will move on now to some facts I have acquired over the years about the only child (as many of you know, I am also am only...) as well as some facts about some amazing men raised by single mothers:

Most only children:

1. Love to share - toys, food, you name it, we love to share it!

2. See friends as family, and are extremely loyal - forever, no matter what.

3. Have parents that depend on them greatly, and they take on a lot of responsibility from an early age.

4. Are high achievers and often very successful.

5. Are ok with being alone - in fact we quite like it and don't need to depend on others to fill our time or constantly make us happy.

Many men raised by single mothers:

1. Know how to change a lightbulb, fix a broken toilet, change out locks and use tools - Nic is great at all of these things.

2. Communicate well with women and are good listeners.

3. Treat their wives, daughters and female coworkers with tremendous respect.

4. Tend to be clean and tidy.

5. Understand the value of money and are responsible with it from an early age.

Lastly, here are some fun examples of successful men raised by single moms:

No matter how you feel about him - President Obama is pretty successful!

George Washington

Bill Clinton

Usher

Matt Damon

Ryan Gosling

Michael Phelps

Orlando Bloom

LL Cool J

Clive Owen

Both lists could go on and on really. Incidentally, many of the people on last list are also only children. Hmmmm.

My main point is, people have ups and owns - with or without siblings, and whether or not they are in a single parent family. I just wish we could all support each other as good, faithful people instead of letting the ugliness of judgement and fear rule the way we treat others.

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Alone - Not Lonely

2014-04-05T09:13:00.001-06:00

Recently, Nic went on an 8 day hike through Southern Colorado and into New Mexico. He goes on lots of multi day trips, and I am definitely learning to like the new way our lives have morphed. He is grown up after all, and soon he will be in Nebraska for college. I still struggle with loneliness sometimes, and I actually think that's ok. Even people in relationships, or with a house full of people, feel lonely sometimes.
For the most part over that eight days, I didn't feel lonely. Of course, I missed Nic, but as I looked back on each day, I realized I was enjoying myself. I spent time with my parents and friends, did a lot of things around the house, sorted through my photos and created some new collages, and got a lot of things for work done and organized. I was very productive over those eight days!
Loneliness may have crept in one or two times, and when it did, I refused to let it take over. I got up and went for long walks,watched some movies that I might never have seen otherwise, and kept myself busy.
I also happened upon a couple of posts on other blogs I follow about loneliness and how others deal with it. While reading, I noticed something I had in common with the other bloggers. In the past, I was very dependent on others to keep me from feeling lonely. I have great friends who are always there for me, and my parents are always welcoming too - but we all have busy lives, and inevitably we are all alone from time to time. I have started to appreciate being alone in those moments. I appreciate silence and a good book. I like to listen to the music, take a bath, and have a glass of wine - and look within myself to enjoy the moment I am in.

So I'm curious friends, what do you do when loneliness pokes its nose into your life?

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See Through My Eyes - Photography Post 1

2014-03-22T17:39:00.003-06:00

I love taking photos, and I'm fortunate to have opportunities to shoot really awesome landscapes. The last few years have really afforded me the opportunities to concentrate on getting good shots and capture some awesome memories. I realized coming into this year that my photo libraries are a bit of a mess, so I am beginning the process of cleaning things up and getting the picture organized. I also realized, if I don't do this now, I will forget where some of these great pics were taken! I have so many memories from each place I have been, I need to write a memoir as well.

But, since I don't have much time to write a book - I can start recalling and at least sharing some of my favorite photos here. Along the way, I have learned quite a bit about photography and acquired some tricks of the trade to make photos more artistic and unique. The hard part today was deciding on where to start....so I just chose a few of my favorites going back to the beginning of my adventures with the US National Park Service - 8 years ago. I hope you enjoy!

Salinas Pueblos, NM - no editing

Rocky Mountain National Park - West Entrance. Slight enhancement of water reflections.

Lake Clark, Alaska - Instagram

San Antonio Missions - Instagram

Stanford University - Instagram

Saguaro National Park - High Def enhancements

The Great Salt Lake - Color enhancements and sharpening needed (the lake is really kinda yellow).

Somewhere in Southern Colorado - not telling secrets on this one:-)

Grand Teton National Park - Instagram

Golden Gate State Park - fading enhancements

Denali National Park - great angles! Instagram and some added enhancements

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, AK

Alcatraz Island - California. Color enhancements

Alcatraz - Color enhancements

Capitol Reef National Park - HiDef

That was tougher than I thought it would be! I have A LOT of photos! Maybe I'll focus on a regional post for next time....

What do you think - do you like my choices? Do you have a favorite?

Please see http://gabrielleindenver.blogspot.com/p/about-me.html- photos are not to be copied or redistributed from this website,

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You Down With the NNT? = What to do to Avoid Burnout!!!

2014-03-11T17:12:00.001-06:00

We all feel burnout from time to time. I have been feeling it lately for sure - that drag yourself to your desk kind of dreading work feeling....that "why am I doing this every day....?" feeling.

In today's post I am sharing a friend's video from a few months ago. She starts by asking: "Do you ever start questioning everything you’re creating, everything you’re working on and everything you’re working towards? Do you sometimes wish you could just stay in bed all day long?" These are questions I have been asking myself lately - so this post came back through my email on the perfect day!

If you haven't already done so - subscribe to Marie Forleo's blog page.
While she is an entrepreneur and many of her posts focus on starting up and running
your own business, I love her posts and find the majority of them applicable to
all of us in the professional world. Her videos are awesome and usually pretty
funny too.

And - as Marie requested - please share some of your NNT activities with
me...Daily exercise is one for me. I am really interested in learning what
works for you!

Mommy Wars - How we can help each other and be on the same "Side" - International Women's Dy

2014-03-07T17:03:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (March 8th), is International Women's Day.

A friend of mine, “the Psychiatrist” tore a page out of a magazine he was reading and said “here you should read this”. I did and I thought it was worth sharing for this week’s International Women’s Day. Whether you are a working mom, might become one, have a wife who is one, or just know one, some sage advice from Dr. Barbara Howard might not hurt!

Summary of : Help families clarify values about working moms. Clinical Psychiatry News Feb. 2014

“Mommy Wars”. It even has a name. This refers to the conflict between mothers working only at home versus mothers with outside employment. As the story goes, each group looks down on the other – the at home mom decrying the lack of caring for the family of the employed, and the employed smirking at the intellectual plateau and lack of earnings of the home mom.

However the bigger Mommy War is inside the individual woman: Am I fulfilling my potential? Am I doing right by my family? The turmoil and stress of mothers at worst can contribute to turmoil in the home, or at a minimum to exhausted mothers not having much fun.

How can we support others, or ourselves? Dr. Howard suggests start by thinking about your family’s values. The best parenting occurs when a women is satisfied with her role – whether at home full time or working outside. Being satisfied can be promoted by mindful consideration and acceptance of the choices they make. Make a list of your pros and cons – it can assist in assist in the evolution of more satisfaction than “what is”.

The benefits are many to children who have working mothers. The added (or only) income can provide important resources such as educational opportunities, sports, and the arts. Having a mother who studies, collaborates, or creates value through her work provides a natural role model for the child’s future success in a career, as well as in being a parent. This is especially valuable for girls who may have the same dilemma about work in the future, but also for boys who may have greater respect for women in the workplaces as well as in their future homes. Children might see more clearly the value in getting an education, and might have a better appreciation for the hard work it takes to get there when they observe their mothers in this role. Resentment is not likely as long as the mother shows affection and makes sure she knows her children well.

Often a working mother’s main concern is whether she is giving her children enough love and attention. Studies have shown that the average at-home mother spends 20 minutes per day of one-on-one time playing with her child. Dr. Howard recommends moms spend 15 minutes of Special Time every day with each child, following their lead in play. This is like gold to the parent-child relationship. This guaranteed time makes the child feel loved, reduces behavior problems, and assuages some of the mother’s guilt so she can keep needed childrearing limits.

One of the biggest stresses for women deciding to go back to, or to carry on at work is child care. Families worry about their children’s wellbeing at child care facilities or with nannies. Old news stories of rare abuse stories or abductions can create unreasonable fears that limit the families choices and greatly affect their overall family functioning. But most families don’t make these choices lightly. You talked to other mothers, you did your research, and you trusted your instincts, now it is time to trust yourself and relax.

Another question is whether her baby will “lover her the best” if he goes to day care. Dr. Howard reassures us that even for infants blood is thicker than water, and that the primary bond with mom will prevail. Multitudes of child psychology studies over decades have proven this out. And remember, no one can have too many people who love you.

Even in families with supportive husbands who endorse an equal role in parenting, mothers have been noted to do 75% of the maintenance of the family and house. Don’t go run off an blame your husband! Often this is driven by the mother who does not want to give up the control, or needs to make up for their working mom guilt. Try weekly family meetings to keep roles and responsibly on the table and trade tasks as needed. A not uncommon story is of a working mom being asked “how do you do it” and the response is “I don’t sleep”. Lack of sleep is epidemic in the US, but it has extra potential impact on mothers. It can lead to irritability, depression, inefficiency, and adds extra stress. I hate Martha Stewart. What real mother can make little costumes for her candlesticks? Yet some women have trouble lowering their standards for “Housekeeping” to a feasible level . Remember, dust kittens in the living room and an occasional frozen dinner are a small price to pay for having family fun and maintaining sanity.

What about those Mommy Wars? I will depart from Dr. Howard’s article and say that as women we need to stick together and leverage what comes naturally to us. Women are sited as having a high need for collaboration and communication. Why not make friends across the employment divide and join forces.

The stay at home mom often has a great pulse on what’s going on at school or in the communities and I have found they are really happy to share their knowledge if you’re willing to ask. I thank the heavens for the stay at home mom’s in my neighborhood who lead the PTAs, help out in the classroom, and make my child’s school experience a great one.

Hopefully the stay at home mom can appreciate all that the working moms do too. They are great role models for their daughters and sons a like. Working mothers should look for those opportunities to be the classroom “special guest” and talk about how they contribute to the community. I took part in a Science Fair at my child’s school and did a classroom tour to show how science is cool. Afterwards my child pointed out that “I was the only girl”, that made me glad I came!

Women in the workforce would not be where they are now if was not for the generations before who forged a path. Now it is our turn to work together to forge the path for the working women of tomorrow.

Ash Wednesday - Lent is Here!!!

2014-03-05T16:41:00.003-07:00

Well - it's here again....time to make decisions on what I need to sacrifice during Lent. In years past I have given up yummy things like soda, candy, ice cream, other foods that I miss a lot, and then can't wait to have on Easter. It was hard, because I love all those things so much! The up side to it was always that I often changed my behavior as a result - and I kept carrying on my new habits in the long term. I rarely drink soda, and sweets are not as much of problem for me anymore either. I think that's what Lent is supposed to help us with - it's a time to take a look at ourselves and reflect on what we can be doing differently to improve our lives and be better people....and to bring us closer to God in the process.

I have been thinking about this year's sacrifices a lot over the last few weeks in preparation...I have decided that I want to focus on things during this season that will help me be the best person I can be. So, instead of giving up something like food for a short while, I am going to concentrate on making changes in bad habits, and even taking on a new, better ones moving forward. When I started to analyze this, I realized that there were three areas where I could use some improving.

Let me start by saying, I work too much....

Here is a quick view of what many of my work from home days are like:

BUT, I can't really give up work for Lent now can I? So, to be realistic and understand that I have to work and use my free time constructively, I came up with this combination of Lenten activities:

1. Work-Life Balance: I will have to work a lot, and travel during this season. But I am hoping to take enough breaks during the day, walk the dog, go to the gym, take care of myself, and pray more often. I am going to go to bed at a reasonable hour during the week AND - here's the big one - I am going to give my friends and family my undivided attention, which they deserve when I am with them - no phone or email interupations, just focused quality time.

2. Shopping: No unnecessary purchases for myself. No Amazon app, no thrift store binging, no new shoes and nothing new for the house until after Easter. This one is going to be very hard for me....but my hope here is to change some bad habits. Obviously I am not going to stop buying myself stuff forever...but I have to be honest, this has gotten completely out of hand for me in the last year or so. Yes, I am thrifty, and I rarely buy things if they are not on serious sale...but I have been bragging about "great deals" way too often lately - and these things add up! The goal here is to make sure I pay more attention to what I am spending on, and make thoughtful decisions about these things instead of just buying stuff on impulse....which leads me to the the next area of focus...

3. Impulsive decision making: I am going to slow down and not act on those impulses all the time! I usually make great decisions, but occasionally I let my emotions take over and I make decisions way too quickly. This will require slowing down and thinking things through a little more and maybe even asking others for advice when I am faced with a big decision.

Soooooo, I am going to give all of this my very best effort - and I am going to check in here with all of you every couple of days to let you know how I am doing. I hope I can find a little success this Lent, and make some long lasting habit changes that I will carry past Easter. I think that's the important thing here...

And when all is said and done...

New Blog Ideas

2014-03-02T14:37:00.001-07:00

Here are my latest thoughts on topics for writing my blog:

1. Work/life balance. I am told this is an area where I have strength - although I am not sure I believe that this weekend since I have put in 8 hours on proposals....BUT - I do have some pretty good ideas on this topic. Who says we can't have both?

2. Single parents at work. Single - and only parents I should add...While this may work hand in hand with the first idea, I feel like there are a lot of blogs about how to get farther as a woman in the workplace. There are almost no resources for the single parent. It's a tough job - and we want to be strong personally - and professionally too. I don't want this to be a segment where we listen to each other complain - but rather an area where we can encourage each other and identify resources.

3. Thrifty fashion and beauty. This is one of my passions. From "dime" store beauty products, to thrift stores to clothes exchanges...I think it would be fun to highlight creative ways to stay up on trends.

4. Books and Movies. I'll need your help here - maybe we can do a virtual book club, or movie review panel occasionally?

4. Photography. One of my passions - especially since I have so many wonderful opportunities to go to beautiful places and capture them in photographs....

5. Guest posts. I can't tell you how much I appreciate all my friends and family. You are true inspiration to me and I would love to share your thoughts and insights here as well.

I think I will also add in a spiritual quote or Bible passage with posts as well. I know that over the last couple of years I have found great comfort in them, and I'd like to pass them on. Don't worry though - I won't be preachy...hopefully just inspirational.

So, what do you think? You are my friends and family - what would you like to see me post about? Where should we begin? I really want to keep things fun and inspirational - almost more like a forum...so your thoughts and ideas are definitely needed to make this work!

For now, and until next time, I'll leave you with a photo of a place where I started my new year - Colorado National Monument...

Change is Coming!

2014-03-01T09:14:00.002-07:00

So - it's pretty obvious that I am not any good at this blogging thing! But, I really want it to work, so I am reinventing it yet one more time.....

I will be making some changes to it this weekend and asking for input on my new theme ideas and articles I'd like to write....so keep a look out!

G

2012 - A Recap

2013-01-01T20:20:00.001-07:00

This wasn't my favorite year. There was a lot of change, tragedy and heartbreak this year. But, I realized this morning during mass that there were some great things to remember from 2012 as well. This post will be my best effort at capturing all my memories - whether good or bad. After all, without all of our experiences, how would be the people that we are today - looking at a bright shiny new year?

I started off the year with a trip to Delray Beach, FL to visit a colleague. It was a fun and warm way to start the new year!

There were several work trips to follow. Here they are in chronological order:

Seattle, WA - great view of Mt. Rainier! February

Anchorage, AK February

Big Horn Canyon, Montana. April (there was a trip to Gaithersburg, MD in March, but I'll highlight that later!)

More Big Horn Canyon!

Our cabin in Fort Smith Montana. April

Little Bighorn, Montana. April

Crow Agency, MT. April

San Antonio Missions, TX

July - it was beautiful but so hot!!!

Monumental trip to Alaska - August. This is Denali from the plane!

Kotzebue was a strange place!!!!

Giant caribou!

Dinner in Talkeetna, AK

Such a magical place!

Off to Alaska again - this time Lake Clark in September!

And then back to Montana again in October:

Greetings from the Packers Roost - a Montana favorite bar!

There were the other memories too - so many things this year!!!!!

Gaithersburg, MD - March. Hitachi acquires PRIZIM

Memorial Day - Bolder Boulder!

Nic leaves the country for the first time - Lima, Peru - June. Machebeuf mission trip.

Tragedy strikes our neighborhood, our state, our country. We cry for our friend who lost her nephew AJ.

Homecoming 2012 - September

Machebeuf makes the playoffs and make it to the sweet 16 for the first time ever!

Angeli's debut, November

Nic got his car - December

Happy holidays!

There were tons of other things too...Nic had a fun part in the school play, he raised money to build a playground for his friends in Peru and he continues to maintain a 4.3 GPA.

We were forced to face the world as we know it alone, and although we find it scary at times, know that we can do it, and are better for it! We appreciate our family friends and neighbors who have been there for us all the way!

I made new friends, became closer with the ones I have had, and look forward to making new ones this year. We had friends pass away, while coming together with old friends to remember them and draw strength from one another.

It was not my favorite year, it was hard. But I am thankful for the many great experiences and look so forward to the new adventures that await for 2013. Happy New Year to you - and I hope your dreams can come true.

Glacier National Park - Montana

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And a Merry Christmas to all!

2012-12-25T15:41:00.001-07:00

Did you know that in Denver we are only 13% likely to have snow fall on Christmas Day. This year it happened!

Such a great day. Nic and I started our Christmas morning opening our gifts from each other. I am thrilled with my new phone case and books to read over my break! After that, we shoveled the three inches of snow that accumulated overnight from our driveway and that of our wonderful neighbors. It felt good to do something nice for them, and this way they could enjoy the beauty of the snow and the white Christmas.

My parents came a little while later, and more opening of presents! Nic loves the new clothes and Xbox 360. I think the highlight of my Christmas was watching Gus the Dog wander the house trying to find a place to hide his new rawhide bones! It was hilarious. He wore himself out moving them around from place to place throughout the house. He has one hidden safely on the bottom shelf of the entertainment center upstairs in my office. I don't think he remembers he put it there....he was looking for it earlier! So funny!

I didn't get any photos of my parents, I am so bad with that! Everyone gets here and I get so busy with the cooking. We had traditional Italian Christmas dinner again this year - it was yummy!

Below are our 2012 Christmas highlights!

Merry Christmas all!!!!

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Our 2012 Holiday Card!

2012-12-21T12:31:00.001-07:00

http://www.americangreetings.com/ecards/pnw-online-greeting/christmas/view/5788001548504?i=578800154&m=8504&source=ag992

This is the link to our 2012 Holiday Card.

Enjoy - and happy holidays!!!!!!

It's Beginning to look a lot (or a little) like Christmas!!!

2012-12-11T17:01:00.001-07:00

This year I just couldn't bring myself to drag all of the Christmas decorations out. In fact, our tree is only 2/3 of the tree! I wanted a real this year, but decided to wait on that til next year....but, with the old one we have and the few extras I pulled out - I am actually really happy with how the house looks! Here are a few of my favorite decorations this year, as posted to Instagram...

In the office.

A mini tree and ornament candle holder.

A bowl full of red ornaments in the living room.

Another mini tree on the fireplace mantel.

Our cozy living room.

I'm in the Christmas spirit!

I hope you are too...

Happy holidays everyone!!!

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Man of the Hour

2012-12-05T15:22:00.001-07:00

Oh indeed - Nic was the man of the hour at Angeli's 18th birthday party. What an extravaganza it was! Being that Angeli is Filipino, her family threw her a huge party called a "Debut" - otherwise known as a Debutante Ball.When she asked him to be her escort and he said "yes," he had no idea what he was in for! Two months and many practice hours later, the big night arrived. All decked out in their formal gowns and tuxedos, the group of 18 was ready to waltz into the ballroom and show us all what they had been working so hard towards. It was a great success, and such an honor for Nic to participate in such a big way for someone he's been great friends with since preschool!

Angeli's dress was so beautiful. Nic was terrified that he might step on the bottom during the waltz and mess everything up - but no fear necessary - he did a GREAT job and there were no mistakes!

A far cry from the last group of photos I posted of these two when they were dirty and grimy in Peru! They've been through a lot together!

The boys all looked so handsome!

A lovely group! I think they were all starting to get a little nervous at this point - with the big waltz a few minutes away.

Walking out to the dance floor...

And the waltz begins.....

As you can see by the look on his face, he took this VERY seriously!

Big smiles - they are almost done!!!

But then was the part he was most nervous about - dancing with Angeli's mom!!!

They even invited the parents! I wish I had a photo of my entire outfit here - I was delightfully surprised at how well it turned out and how much fun I had wearing it!!!

Fun was had by all - it will be an evening to remember for ever!

WHEW!!!!!

2012-12-02T18:10:00.001-07:00

Wow! Things have been crazy around here!

This week I went to the funeral of a close friend, made it to the office holiday party, stayed up way too late with friends, became the "jewelry lady," and bought Nic a car. Whew - it's exhausting!

The funeral was nice - and brought many of us together after a long break. Although it was sad, it was a beautiful celebration of a wonderful person. The holiday party was ok too - it's funny how since the acquisition we are like celebrities every time we go into the office. I keep thinking that will fade, but it hasn't so far. It's kinda cool...

I saw the brother of classmate this weekend. At a friend's house just hanging out, he happened over. It was the craziest thing! We all ended up drinking wine and staying up way too late to catch up! I also made a new friend this weekend - which is always very welcome! I spent a lot of time catching up on old memories and creating new ones this weekend - it was really nice!

I also decided to become the newest edition to the Premier Designs family as the "jewelry lady." I am not gonna lie - I lost a lot of sleep over this one....my next post will be dedicated to that! I have decided to commit to it, and my new part time gig will start in January. Wish me luck - and buy jewelry from me:-)

The most fun thing I did this weekend was to get Nic his new car. We decided on a 2001 VW Jetta. It's quite nice and he is so happy with it! I was also happily surprised that the insurance isn't going to cost me an arm and a leg. Below is a photo of him in his new car - isn't it awesome? I am so happy for him!

My next post will highlight the jewelry endeavor - and please let me know if you think it a bad idea...I still have time to back out...

Cheers all - I hope you had a wonderful weekend too!!,

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Thanksgiving.....

2012-11-25T16:31:00.001-07:00

I do have so much to be thankful for in my life. I have a wonderful family that I really wouldn't trade for the world! I have great friends, who are always there for me when I need to talk, or just want to go out and have a great time. I'm not gonna lie though - this Thanksgiving was strange. It's funny that although you can make the choices you have to make to improve your life, you can question yourself and feel sad anyway. For the most part I have been truly relieved and happy that I am newly single. I know there was no other way, and everyone knows how hard I tried to get things to work. It just didn't work out. It's ok.

My friend's father passed away on Friday as well. Her father had been close with all of our kids as they grew up - sort of another grandpa for them all. He was always at the school and took the boys where ever they wanted to go over the years. His death was as shock, and I am truly sad for his daughters and wife. I will continue to be there for the family as time goes on - and I have vowed to be a better friend to everyone moving forward! We are all thankful that he stayed here with us through the holiday on Thursday and that the whole family was able to be with him when he passed. It was sort of a beautiful process, if one has to endure it.

So I guess it's no wonder I woke feeling a little melancholy yesterday. It is persisting today, but I decided not to fight the feeling, but to let myself experience it and appreciate it for what it is: the direct result of a rich and full life that has it's ups and downs. All of which, I must accept and gain strength from. I have learned a lot over the years, and I will continue to learn as I go. For that, I am forever thankful. I would not be the person I am today without having the experiences I've had over the years.

A lot of things made me most happy this long weekend too - I went to see two really great movies, got my hair done (I am now a redhead), ate my favorite meal of the year, went country dancing, and spent time with my friends and family. Although I love my job, it was also nice to have a few days off! So, to leave this post on a most positive note, I will share a photo of the Christmas decorations in the living room. We are keeping it simple this year - and I think it looks beautiful!

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and have lots to be thankful for as well!

Happy holidays!!!!!

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Big Changes!

2012-11-20T09:23:00.002-07:00

Seriously - I WANT to keep this blog going - but it has been so hard to actually DO it! Lots of big changes around here - if you've spoken to me recently, you know all about them! Things are good though - I really can't complain.

As part of my return to blogging again - I will keep this one short and post a few photos of fun events that Nic and I have been a part of over the last few months.

Machebeuf soccer made the Sweet 16 in the 3A state championship tournament this season. AND Nic made all conference for his great season!

The boys looked stylish and had fun at this year's Homecoming dance.

I went to some very strange.....

VERY strange....

And beautiful places in Alaska!

I even made some new adorable friends!

I am adding time to my calendar to make sure I keep this updated. I need to start on a theme - and I think moving forward I will focus on fashion and wellness again..with a splash of Nic and his friends thrown in as well.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone - I am thankful for so much...what are you thankful for this year?

Friday Favorites!

2012-07-05T20:35:00.003-06:00

It's already July - I can't believe how quickly the summer is going by already. It's been a rough one and a hot one for sure! Here in Colorado we have been afflicted with forest fires, to include the Waldo fire which has been the most destructive in Colorado history. On the other side of the country, my friends and colleagues have been without power for days since the horrible storm that hit the east coast. Wow – what a summer so far.

In spite of all that – there are so many things that I appreciate, so many things that I love about summer. Hopefully Mother Nature will calm down for a couple months so we can enjoy the rest of our summer, and have some fun in the sun!

Friday favorites – Summer!

Even though we didn’t have fireworks here due to the dry conditions, we celebrated the birthday of our country with family and had a fabulous day!

I love to lounge by the pool – my favorite thing about where I live!

My favorite person in the world – on his hike today at St. Mary’s Glacier.

My favorite dog in the whole world - Gus Dog turned 10 on the 4th of July. Doesn't he look great for an old guy???

Happy Friday - Have a lovely weekend!!!

Peruvian Fall - Colorado Summer

2012-06-26T19:09:00.004-06:00

Wow - I haven't had a post since January! I have so many things to tell you about! But first things first - I have to show you how wonderful my son is. Nic and several classmates and teachers went to Peru earlier this month, and - words can't even describe what a wonderful experiene this was for them! So - I will re-start my blog with some photos from their life changing trip.

For more information about the Machebeuf 2012 Peru Mission Trip, you can visit http://www.machebeuf.org/peru/

More updates on what's been going on coing soon!!!

HAPPY SUMMER!!!

Pinterest Friday Favorites - Florida edition!!!

2012-01-20T13:09:00.003-07:00

This weeks favorites from Pinterest are all highlights from Florida. I decided to post this in preparation for my trip to Ft. Lauderdale on Monday. That, and I am SO over winter and thought some warm weather photos would be really nice!!!

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!

Gift Cards Galore!

2012-01-16T15:38:00.001-07:00

This year I was lucky enough to receive a ton of gift cards and even a little cash to spend on gifts that I could choose myself. This was especially nice this go round because I am in the middle of overhauling my wardrobe as well as my accessories and handbags. It's really been forever since I bought a nice structured bag for work. With my first trip coming up next week, I thought the timing was perfect on finding this great bag!

Mondani is one of my favorite brands. The quality is always great, the design is always pretty (I love that the interior has a distinct pattern and finding things inside is so easy), and the price is great. A designer look, with a much better price.

And - a quick look at the inside detail...

Hope you're having a glorious Monday!!!

Pinterest Friday Favorites - Shoe Edition

2012-01-13T19:56:00.003-07:00

As promised, here are my favorites from Pinterest this week. I decided to focus on shoes and boots since I have been longing to wear the cute new pairs that I purchased recently. Hopefully the weather will clear and I can wear something new to the training I will be a part of next week at work!

I promise a new outfit post soon - I have been so busy catching up at work, I barely pull myself together these days!

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!

My 2011 Highlights!

2012-01-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

A few highlights from my fantastic 2011. Not always the most fashionable - but usually tons of fun! Here's to a great 2012 and a jump start to my new blog!

Here are a few highlight photos from my 2011.

Mojave National Preserve - California

Las Vegas!!!!

Machebeuf Boys soccer - Nic is #5

A night on the town with my friend Stephanie

Nic and his friend Mollie go to Homecoming

Rocky Mountain National Park

Francie and I hard at work in Petrified Forest - Arizona

Get your kicks on route 66!

Petrified Forest National Park

Were I spent my birthday - Gulf Islands, Mississippi

Mesa Verde National Park

With co-workers in Moab - Canyonlands National Park

The night of the Nutcracker

Merry Christmas - and Happy New Year!!!

The Nutcracker Suite

2011-12-23T14:11:00.000-07:00

After a few years of not going, the family decided to go to the Denver Ballet's The Nutcracker Suite. I am so glad we went! I was very excited to wear the dress that I had recently picked up at the thrift store, dress up and head to a fancy event! Don't you just love this dress? It was almost as if it was meant to be for me.

I bought it , brought it home and threw it on right away. I hadn't tried it on in the store, since it was only $5, I figured if it didn't fit at all, I could just take it back and re-donate, or give it to someone that it might work on. I put it on as soon as I got home - and it looked great! One small problem though - I couldn't get it zipped up all the way. I was so sad, and I also couldn't understand why it fit so well everywhere else, and the last two inches just wouldn't zip.

So - I decided to give my local seamstress a try. She is so fantastic, and pointed out to me that the reason the dress probably ended up at the thrift store was because someone else had already altered the dress, and the alteration appeared to have gone wrong at the top. She said there was plenty of material at the top of the dress, and she could get it back in shape in no time! I was so happy (and also relieved that I don't actually have a really fat back). So, a few days later, plus a good dry-clean, and voila! A beautiful dress for the ballet!