*Yep, they are all mine.

please read

2012-12-03T06:05:00.001-08:00

Just a quick note this morning. A few of you have asked about buying these shirts:

They are now available for purchase HERE! (Those violet bracelets are for sale, too!)

100% of the profits will go straight to the Kennish Family.

Jeremy was admitted to Stanford yesterday for his second bone marrow transplant and will be away from his wife and two boys for 100 days. There are many ways to help HERE, and I wanted to share something his wife, Liz, wrote:

"I'm at a loss for words, and that is so foreign a thing to me. I'm not going to try to give words to feelings I don't really know, or want to know, how to explain. I'm just going to ask for help. Please think about my family and no matter what you believe send us prayers of love, courage, and strength that will surround us with your positivity and warmth. For that little bit coming from so many people truly is something that can be physically felt."

Updates can always be found on the blog and Facebook page.

Please feel free to spread the word and thanks for reading.

grab a beer and look at what i did last week...and the week before...

2012-12-02T17:12:00.000-08:00

I keep forgetting to write these posts.

Grab a beer, won't you, and look at what I've been up to...

Let's start with two days of Thanksgiving celebrations. I learned two lessons this year.

1) Maxi skirts are the ONLY way to stay comfortable after eating all that food.

2) I do NOT have the patience to teach my kids Monopoly. Even with wine.

Moving on.

We took advantage of the amazing weather and got our Christmas tree early.

Notice the short sleeves? It was 65 degrees that day.

My boy, he loves nature.

My dog, he does too.

I'm kind of a little bit obsessed with the Christmas tree farm we found this year. This sweet little Swiss couple have owned it forEVER. It was small and quaint and seriously one of the most beautiful drives. No Instagram filters necessary.

There were horses.

And deer.

I mean, come on.

I'm sure you're shocked to hear that I don't like decorating the Christmas tree. Luckily, I had elf labor this year.

Not bad for $40 and 98% decorated by children aged 4-8.

And that was the end of the great weather.

It's essentially been pouring for DAYS. Our fall colors are all in the cul-de-sac and my seasonal depression is coming on strong.

It doesn't seem to bother Lily.

Moving on.

After several months with a cracked iPhone, I finally got a new one...which means I now have Siri. Let me tell you, that chick already knows me REALLY well.

Example #1 (I tried to type "going to my mom's church")

Example #2

Lastly, allow me to leave you with three recommendations to help keep the winter blues at bay:
1) yoga pants, even if you haven't done yoga in months
2) Chai Wheat beer
3) Run Run Run by Phoenix

How was your week(s)? Any recommendations for me? To cope with the weather or otherwise? Do you live somewhere warm and sunny and want to take me in for a few months?

three things i don't understand

2012-11-29T06:51:00.002-08:00

{1}
This has been ALL OVER social media.

"Only six months after giving birth to the beautiful Maxwell Drew, Jess and hunky hubby Eric Johnson evidently couldn't wait to make more!"

I got pregnant with Caden when Isabella was 7 months old, and pregnant with Lily when Caden was 13 months old. Girl, where is MY magazine cover?

{2}
People who don't like and/or are offended by cussing. I'm not trying to be mean, or belittle your opinion, I'm honestly boggled by this. I've heard it said that cussing makes you sound uneducated, that there's many other words from which you can choose. I disagree, obviously. I think a well-placed cuss word drives my point home. And to replace darn it for dammit? The sentiment is the same, right? Please help me to understand.

{3}

This isn't about Zooey, who seems to be the most loved women in America. This is about The New Girl. The only show I watch is Parenthood, and sometimes I forget that it's not on until 10...so I turn on the TV at 9 and inevitably end up watching The New Girl. Friends, I just don't get the hype. What I DO love, however, is The Mindy Project right after it.

What things are confusing you these days?

secrets of an introvert: it's not you, it's me

2012-11-27T06:47:00.003-08:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Kimberly on Pinterest

++

Did you know I'm an introvert?

Many people are surprised when they learn this.

I live with four other people and I'm a teacher. The introvert inside me has tantrums all the time because of the choices I've made. Could I have had any more kids?* Could I have chosen a more social job? {Said in my best Chandler Bing voice.}

In general I think people associate being introverted with being shy or being a loner. I can be timid, especially when meeting new people, but I wouldn't say that's an overarching theme in my life. And I really do enjoy being with friends, which strikes loner from the page.

I'm an introvert because when I need to recharge I have to be alone. Many times I'm the last one to leave a party. But sometimes when I'm out and about a switch flips and all of a sudden I must go home. It has nothing to do with the company I keep {well, sometimes it does} but more to do with needing to be alone. And it happens, just like that.

Being an introvert is why I instituted quiet hour for my kids at 8:00pm. And why I lose my mind when they don't respect it. It's why I get up at 5am to sit on the couch with my coffee. Hearing that damn alarm so early is painful, but it sets the tone for my day. And if someone tries to share that time with me I get grumpy. {Sorry, family members. It's in your best interest to let me be.} It's also why I stay up way too late when everyone else is asleep. I'm not doing anything. I'm just being. It's why I go to Target for ziplocs and before I know it I've spent two hours roaming around and haven't made it to the food storage aisle.

And here's a trade secret: the bathroom is a lovely place for introverts. Sometimes I'm eliminating; often, I'm recharging.

Are you an introvert like me? Or do you energize around others?

*Three kids is a lot for this only child.

updates + a sale

2012-11-26T06:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Cyber Monday!

If you've been stalking me, wondering if Rodan + Fields is actually working, here's the latest. The following photos show the difference after five weeks on the REVERSE regimen - for brown spots, dullness, and sun damage. (Disclaimer: I am wearing mascara in the November pics. And earrings. Other than that, I am bare-faced.)

I honestly cannot believe the difference. WHY didn't anyone tell me my skin was so bad before?!?!

If sun damage is not your main concern, there are three other regimens:
ANTI-AGE - for wrinkles, pores, loss of firmness
UNBLEMISH - for acne and post-acne marks
SOOTHE - for sensitive, irritated skin and facial redness
As well as ESSENTIALS (I will be "tanning" with Foaming Sunless Tan this summer) and ENHANCEMENTS (this Micro-Dermabrasion Paste is a miracle worker).

So today, on Cyber Monday, for every new Preferred Customer order between now and midnight tomorrow night (Tuesday, November 27, 2012), I will send you a $25 Visa gift card. Preferred Customers also get 10% off + free shipping.

Spend $185 or more and you'll get a $25 Visa gift card AND a free 30 day supply of our Anti-Age Night Renewing Serum. That's $69 of free gifts PLUS 10% off and free shipping!

And remember, all products are sold with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. (And the regimens are packaged for 60 days. I am five weeks in and have a LOT of product left - a little goes a long way.)

If you've been wanting better looking skin...now is the time. Rodan + Fields also makes great gifts for your mom, your sister, your friends, your grandma, even your dad.

You can order directly through my website HERE or feel free to email me at kimbskin {at} gmail {dot} com for questions/orders. I am only offering the $25 Visa gift cards today and tomorrow!

Thanks! Make it a great week.

elf on the shelf ideas of the non- kelle hampton variety

2012-11-23T09:24:00.000-08:00

Well, this joker came back again this year.

I had my fingers crossed that the kids would forget all about him so I wouldn't have to deal with it. For all that is good in this world I love her and her enthusiasm, but I am not Kelle Hampton, remember? If I had it my way, I'd pack up my family and move to Hawaii for December. That sounds like a tradition I can get behind.

NO SUCH LUCK, my friends.

Isabella made sure to let everyone know that the elf would be coming back after Thanksgiving. And Lily got all excited and when she heard it -- even remembering his ridiculous name. ORDEN SNOWFLAKE IS COMING BACK!!!

Obviously I had no choice. Orden's back. Let's just hope he keeps his shit together this time. If you weren't around these parts last year, Orden got into a wee bit o' mischief. Here's a little recap from a year ago:

++

I call this: The Elf Version of the After School Special: Scared Straight
Subtitled: When Slacker Moms Get Bored
AKA: #pinthisshit

Orden was tired of the commute to the North Pole every night. He just wanted a night off from the hustle and bustle. It's not comfortable sleeping in a Christmas tree, and the pressures that come with being a narc can be overwhelming. Santa signed his time off request, thinking what's the harm? {Insert foreshadowing music here.}

Orden began his night at a local coffee shop. Unfamiliar with non-Elf ladies, he took some pointers from the book at the register.

Orden quickly realized that I like milk and cookies but I'd rather have you and Nice wrapping but I need to inspect it worked wonders on the ladies. He moved his party to the local bar where he discovered his talent for playing quarters.

Not realizing that snow had more than one meaning, things took a turn for the worse.

Suddenly Orden had a burst of ENERGY! and needed to DANCE! And the pick up lines were going downhill, quickly.

Hey Santa, how bout I guide your sleigh with this?

So you like nuts, huh?

I think we all know how this night ended.

Orden is currently residing at the Seven Palms Rehab Center in Florida.
The kids think he's at Walt Disney World.
Mom's off the hook.
Merry Christmas.

{Originally published December 19, 2011}

tuesday sucks

2012-11-20T09:37:00.001-08:00

One thing you can always count on from me is bitching about cold weather.

I HATE IT.

I hate shoes (my toes feel cramped), sleeves (my arms itch), and layers (I feel claustrophobic). I hate that feeling in coats when you arms don't have full extension because you think you're going to bust a seam.

Cold weather fashion is totally uninspiring. I don't look cute. The ONLY thing I can get behind is a good scarf.

I don't want to spend ANY money on these clothes because they piss me off.

So basically every time I have to get dressed I end up in a foul mood because I have few things to wear - and the things I do have are uncomfortable.

And then my foul mood makes me want to eat, so by the end of the cold season, NOTHING fits because I'm up ten pounds.

I need to migrate south.

++

I'm home with my kids this week. Yesterday we went to the Nimbus Fish Hatchery and watched the salmon get clubbed to death before the artificial spawning.

No, really. This is a Thing To Do in Northern California. It was packed. And FREE.

++

So today I thought to myself, how about a little less death - a movie, perhaps? I went online to check movie times. (By the way, remember when you used to CALL the movie theatre and had to sit and listen through ALL the movie times on the recording?)

After I found out where to go, I checked to see how much tickets are. WHAT A CROCK. First of all, there aren't matinee prices for kids. It's $7 no matter when you go. And the adult matinee price is $8, down from the $10.50 it is at night. $29 for the four of us to be entertained for 90 minutes.

++

Do I seem grumpy? I am. I did nothing to it, yet my neck hurts so bad that I want to throw up. I went to the chiropractor yesterday and after many, many, many tries, it would not budge because of the swelling. So I'm icing my neck. And I 'm cold. And it hurts. Hence the grumpy.

++

What are you doing today? I'm super excited to watch Parenthood tonight. Now I just have to find something to do for the next 12 hours until it starts.

grab a coffee and let's talk about thanksgiving break

2012-11-19T07:59:00.002-08:00

Good Morning!

It's Monday and normally I'd be getting ready for work right now; instead, I'm still in bed, drinking a cup of coffee, and blogging. Duh.

I've been seeing a lot of those "I'm thankful for..." posts these days. I suppose it has something to do with the spirit of gratitude that surrounds Thanksgiving...the same spirit that will turn some people into monsters the day immediately following Thanksgiving and throughout the month of December. Speaking of that, I hate it when I have to go to Target for something like toothpaste and end up standing in line with all those nasty Christmas shoppers.

Anyhoo, my point is that I am grateful for being a teacher. Not the changing kids' lives part, but the vacation part. Especially with little ones at home. What do people do with their kids during all those days off when they aren't teachers?

And with some time off, I shall share with you some photos. So, grab yourself another drink {I'm getting coffee - but I don't judge} and look at what I've been up to.

Lily's reading. Full on explosion in process. I remember when I had babies - when they would learn a new skill, another one that they had mastered months ago would take the backseat for a bit. Almost like their brains could only handle one new thing at a time. I'm certain that Lily's social skills have left the building as she learns her damn sight words. The girl is OFF THE HOOK.

I probably shouldn't write this for fear of jinxing myself, but... Caden was a VERY difficult child for a LONG time. I honestly thought I would never make it through. I had visions of him tormenting me for the rest of his life. Now? He is SO EASY. And I don't have easy kids. So when Lily acts up I swear I suffer from PTSD and lose my mind even more.

These kids are going to break me.

There he is. Doing homework, without complaining or throwing pencils or crumpling up his paper. What a difference. And there I was, helping with homework for the 10th hour in a row. That's the part about teaching I DON'T LIKE: coming home and doing the same thing with my own kids. #ihatemath

Looking for ways to keep your kids busy during vacation weeks?
Go ahead and #pinthisshit

Apparently LL Bean catalogs are fun for cutting and pasting.

Family handstand competitions are cool.

Host A Talent Show. That. is Music.
{See kids? Punctuation DOES matter.}

Cut some t-shirts.

Go to the mall {if you're reading this before Thursday} and ride the rides. It kept Lily occupied for a good five minutes.

Dogsit. Now there's almost enough dogs for each kid to have their own.

When all else fails...

Plug the kids into the TV, make yourself a delicious platter, crawl into bed...

And party with Brad like it's 1994.
By the way, both my husband AND BG called this movie BORING. So now I need to know if this is a male thing. For some reason, ahem, this movie can keep my attention for HOURS. Men, if you read this - what are your thoughts on Legends of the Fall?

I probably won't be back this week, so gobble, gobble, y'all.

for the love of lists

2012-11-16T10:51:00.000-08:00

{1}
Next week is Thanksgiving break, which means I will be home, alone, with the gaggle. I am equal parts thrilled and terrified.

{2}
A few of you have told me that you are stalking me - so here's an update for you: business is going well :-)

If you need me, I'll be doing some online shopping.

{3}
I was wearing this all day before I realized why it looked so familiar. I pinned this forever ago and apparently it got stuck in my brain.

{4}
I posted some updates on Jeremy over here, including a couple pictures from his "going away" party.

Please go check it out and share some love.

Hope y'all have a great weekend.

my friends, and cancer

2012-11-14T06:04:00.001-08:00

Happy Hump Day!

I'm popping in for a quick update and to ask for a little assistance.

Do you remember this post from Jeremy's head-shaving party? (If not, get your Kleenex ready.)

I haven't done much updating over here, but unfortunately, Jeremy's cancer returned earlier this year.

A new blog and Facebook page has been created to show our support for Jeremy, his wife Liz, and their boys Sawyer and Oliver. If you could please take a moment to follow and like and spread the word, we know the positive energy will go a long way.

Thank you!

*Shout out to Jess at Wrangling Chaos for donating her blog design services. THANK YOU, friend :)*

it's really working

2012-11-06T09:08:00.000-08:00

2 weeks and 1 day into the Rodan + Fields REVERSE regimen. Again, this is a slow start process and yet I'm already seeing some fantastic results. The first week I used it once a day, every other day. The second week I used it once a day, every day. I'm treating my face and the biggest age-revealer of all, my decolletage.

High Notes:
+ this stuff works
+ 60 day empty bottle guarantee
+ PC Perks customers get 10% off + free shipping (this is a substantial savings)
+ Rodan + Fields gives back - if you partner with me in November, $45 will be donated to the Red Cross American Relief Fund
+ AND there's a holiday deal going on (if not for you, then possible gifts? - the ANTI-AGE Night Renewing Serum was featured in "0" Magazine)

If you're interested in the products (the Solution Tool is a great place to start) or the business or both, I'm always happy to answer any questions.

grab a beer and look at what i did last week

2012-11-04T20:55:00.001-08:00

Another week, captured by Instagram.

Halloween came and went. Isabella was a Vampire Witch, Lily was a "fairy - but not just any fairy - a Goddess Fairy", and Caden was Hawk Eye from The Avengers. Now, if you're like me, you've never heard of Hawk Eye...so when a small boy dressed in a Chippendales-esque costume and a lisp from his missing two front teeth tells you he's Hawk Eye...why yes, that DOES sound a lot like HOT GUY.

There were many chuckles heard that night.

Also heard on Halloween? Some really rude trick-or-treaters. Hey, parents! Let's try teaching your kids a few rules:
1) Ringing the doorbell and then knocking repeatedly 0.8 seconds later is rude.
2) Not saying THANK YOU is rude.
3) Running through people's yards is rude.

My kids even commented on the lack of manners observed that night. COME ON.

Rant over.

This was the best part of the night :)

The highlight of the week though was attending our friends' wedding. The groom and Todd have been friends since...their whole lives.

And it was GORGEOUS.

See?

At the reception.

The lovely couple.

And it's back to work tomorrow...only two weeks until Thanksgiving Break, thankthegoodlord. How was your week?

gold bug mine, etc.

2012-11-02T09:38:00.001-07:00

Another day trip, this time to the Gold Bug Mine in Placerville.

Todd is a great history teacher.

We looked for gold.

And did lots of hiking.

Lily found a "pineapple".

More hiking.

Stamp Mill and a history lesson on Black Bart.

Blacksmith lessons, too.

More hiking.

---
Totally unrelated...but I guess it's time to start thinking about the upcoming holidays.

{I am not a fan of Christmas. I'm actually not a fan of anything in the winter because I hate winter. Yep, I'm a grinch. I'll get over it when the sun shines most of the day and my serotonin levels return to normal.}

Anyhoo, for the normal population who may actually be thinking of Christmas gifts: as I launch my new business, I'd be honored if you chose to spend some of your money with me. There's a sweet special going on through the end of the year. As always, I am here for answer ANY questions about the products, the business, or both.

---
All righty folks. It's Friday {YAY!}, it's foggy {BOO - I can feel my serotonin dropping as I type this}, but I get to attend a wedding tonight {YAAAAAAY!!!}. Have a great weekend and I'll see ya Sunday for the weekly installment of grab a beer and look at what I did last week.

why 34.5 is better than 24.5

2012-11-01T09:31:00.001-07:00

Last week it occurred to me that is was my half birthday. I am now six months away from 35. And I started to panic. 35 is a turning point: the doctor requires more tests of you, when completing forms your age bracket moves up and you're lumped in with ages that seem SO MUCH DIFFERENT, and if I were pregnant I'd be considered "high risk". Sheesh.

Then I remembered that my 30s have been pretty cool, especially compared to my 20s. The only thing I want back from my 20s is my figure. Can I get an AMEN? I'm a completely different person than I was 10 years ago, and the lessons I've learned have served me well. Here's a few of those -- FAR FROM perfect -- but ones that I feel like I have incorporated about 85%:

+ My friends do not care if my house is messy; in fact, they may feel better about themselves when they see the craziness inside. Not spending time with people I love because of a mess is silly.

+ I don't do major cleanings before parties. All it does is tire me out, I run out of time, and I'm stressed when guests arrive. I clean AFTER the party.

+ I can take a compliment. Even if I don't see what they do, a simple "thank you" means a lot to the person doling it out.

+ I try not to take things personally. As much as I'd like to believe that the world revolves around me, it doesn't. It rarely has anything to do with me.

+ I think that for the most part people want to be heard, not told what to do. Unless explicitly asked, I try not to give advice or solve people's problems.

+ I do not apologize for being myself. Not in real life and not here online.

Here's to being open enough to learn all sorts of new things in time for my 44.5th birthday...the short list includes being able to speak in front of groups and remaining calm when my kids are acting a fool.

How about you? What life lessons have you embraced and which ones are on your to-be-conquered list?

apple hill

2012-10-31T07:45:00.001-07:00

The best part about fall in Northern California: Apple Hill.

I mean, if you're into perfect settings.

Nature hiking with Todd.

Wine tasting at Lava Cap.

And the ol' Lava Cap tractor: keeping my kids entertained for hours since 2009.

I hope he becomes a winemaker.

Boys. All the time.

Bowling in the grape fields.

Really, the #1 reason why I love Apple Hill.

Driving home.

family pictures

2012-10-30T07:32:00.000-07:00

My friend Michelle, of Memories by Michelle Photography, took our family photos the other weekend. And it was such a pleasure that I said: hey, Michelle - can I do a blog post about you?

Here's the deal. If I am pleased with a product or a service I like to spread the word. And I am head over heals in love with every single picture. It was a mini-session and there isn't one I don't adore. How is that even possible?

But what the pictures don't show is Michelle's phenomenal communication skills. We recieved clear emails throughout the entire process, from the booking, to the actual shoot, after the session, and when the proofs were ready. {And her turn around time was FAST.} I like to feel in the loop and I did at every step.

So, Northern California peeps? Check out Memories by Michelle Photography. You'll love her.

By the way, aren't my kids are the cutest?

a miracle, if you will

2012-10-29T07:42:00.001-07:00

So... Check. This. Out.

{left, 10-21-12; right 10-28-12}

It's subtle, but this is the difference after ONE WEEK of using Rodan + Fields. And because my prescribed regimen recommends starting slow, I've technically only used it FOUR times. Results aside, these products rock my world. They make my skin feel soft and lovely, and I love the way they make me smell. {I take a lot of deep breaths after I wash my face.}

Anyhoo, here's what I see in the first week:
+ less blotchy, more even skin tone
+ smaller pores
+ forehead wrinkles less pronounced
+ under eye wrinkles (those stuck in my bags) less obvious
+ bags less dark and depressing

If you are unhappy with your skin, check this shit out. You'll love them, but if you don't there's a 60 day return policy.

Oh, and here is what I did last week for "work".

Lunch at Zocalo with some totally awesome ladies from Rodan + Fields. Business is great :)

Want to buy or sell or both? Questions? I'll answer them all as honestly as I operate this blog.

Here's my website and you can email, text, Facebook, and/or call anytime.

PS, Happy Monday.

grab a beer and look at what i did last week

2012-10-28T17:05:00.001-07:00

I started the week loving California.

October 22nd was a momentous day. AND I realized it was my half birthday. And then I freaked out about my upcoming age. Post on that later this week.

I wore black and orange, the day after a huge Giants win, with the hope of subliminally winning over my boss, A Huge Giants Fan.

And then I posted this on Instagram. WOW. Suddenly I have zero local friends.

I took Lily to the doctor after I diagnosed her with asthma.

I should have been a doctor.

Our dryer broke. And I lost my mind hang-drying load after load all over the house.

SO

MANY

DAMN

CLOTHES.

Do yourself a favor and buy this.

I love my boy. He just gives random hugs. I hope he never grows out of it.

The twins.

And we ended the week loving California. More on that later this week.

How was your week?

the story of the dog

2012-10-22T07:12:00.003-07:00

Many of my friends were surprised to hear that we adopted a dog.

You see, I'm not what you would call a pet person. I grew up with pets, as an adult I've had a cat and a dog...and they are a lot of damn work. BUT. There are five people in this house and I'm the only one who doesn't love animals. I didn't want to be THAT mom who didn't allow her kids to have pets....so...I had to take one for the team.

I went on Petfinder and found this guy.

Augustus Dingleberry.
Honestly, the name sold me.

The rescue group saved him from death row at the pound...and he came to them with lots of health issues. For awhile they thought he had some sort of major problem with his esophagus. Then after more vet visits and lab work, they realized that he had a chicken bone stuck in his throat. He had some surgery.

He had a feeding tube because he couldn't eat.

I KNOW.

Then he started tolerating some wet food, but he had to stay upright after feedings to help the food stay down.

I stalked his rescue group's Facebook page for insider info. All the rescue workers kept commenting on how chill he was. And hey, any dog that will literally hang around in a baby bjorn has to have a great temperament.

His feeding tube was removed, he was given a clean bill of health, and was cleared as a special needs dog. We went to his foster family's house to meet him, took him home, and most everyone loved him.

He loves Todd {all animals do}, the car, day trips, playing with anyone, jumping on the couch, and peeing and pooping on the cement.

He's not too sure about me. {The feeling is mutual.} He plays hard to get with his treats and he doesn't like getting his paws wet. {Hence the peeing and pooping on the cement.}

And that's the story of Gus Gus.

grab a beer and look at what i did last week

2012-10-21T19:29:00.000-07:00

Hey, remember when I used to do these posts every Sunday?

I had a request for the weekly recap. And what my readers want, my readers get.

If you've seen my boy, you've seen the dangling tooth that would not fall out. Well, it finally did. Then the other one did the same thing. It was hard to watch. FINALLY, that one fell out, too. Now he looks ridiculously adorable and he has a lisp. It's too much cuteness.

Here's what I do not enjoy: running around the house Friday morning, trying to get everyone ready for school, and having to finish homework packets and sign said homework packets.

Again, readers ask and I provide. Aly told me to decorate the door. Todd must have heard her because he made us a Pinteresting porch. It's glorious, right?

I love my drama-free job. Especially since I made money while working at my drama-full job.

We packed up the van with FIVE! kids for Fun! Family! Friday! With Friends!

The boys like to work out.

Family photos with an election theme. {Not really. I refused to buy new clothes and this is all we had that matched.}

Not pictured: bean burritos, beer, a housewarming party, and crazy children.

How was your week?

the balance

2012-10-19T09:51:00.001-07:00

This is sort of stream of consciousness writing - I just need to get this out - so if it's disjointed, well...you know why.

Prepare yourself. I'm about to state the obvious:

Coordinating life with three kids is hard.

Last year the kids were in soccer. We were only dealing with two teams (Caden and Lily were on the same team), but even then we had two conflicting practice times and practices were scheduled while Todd and I were at work. In order to make it, we had to have the grandparents help out. Saturday games were also a challenge - we'd often have to split up so one parent was at each game. It was exhausting doing that several days every week.

This year, when soccer sign ups came around, the kids weren't super excited about it and we decided that all that coordinating and running around wasn't worth it. But I wanted them to do something.

Enter gymnastics. In August I found a great gym, one that offered a different class for each kid...all at the same time. One day per week, easy peasy.

They are loving it and are doing really well. Yesterday, Caden's coach says, "Hey, Caden shows a lot of talent, he's strong and he's moldable. I lead a more advanced, small, 'by invite only' class and I'd like him to join." This, of course, is great.

Except.

1) Isabella hears this and understandably is a little heartbroken. (In her mind, she's training for the Olympics.)

2) The class is two days per week (not the day the kids go now), is two hours long, and is in the afternoon during work hours.

3) It's significantly more expensive.

I am an only child. The only competition I had to deal with was with friends. Sure, I was jealous when my BFF Laurissa got to go to modeling school and I didn't. But, I didn't have to live with her. I didn't have to tag along and watch her do the things I wanted to do, too. I don't even know what to say to Isabella other than - you're doing great, too...don't compare yourself with anyone, especially your brother...blah blah blah. In my mind, I think she's completely talented and strong and moldable, too. But I'm not the one making those decisions.

The timing though? What does one do with two other kids who LOVE gymnastics and would LOVE to go an extra three hours every week? Do they just sit there in the gym and watch? And wish that they were out there, too? That is torture for anyone, especially a child.

Putting all that aside, even if he were my only kid, how do I get him there? I need a sister wife. Or I need to quit my job. Which leads me to the money. Time wise, I can't afford to work...money wise, I can't afford not to. I want my kids to have these opportunities. But one of my biggest fears is surfacing: not being able to afford the things that my kids want to do AND do well. I know (not from personal experience because I sucked at all things related to athletics) that sports get to be SO MUCH MONEY.

I just don't know how to deal with all these emotions...how to squeeze in these activities...how to afford them...

I'm a hot mess.

just in case you were wondering

2012-10-17T08:42:00.001-07:00

Thank you so much for your support on Monday. Unlike a brick and mortar establishment, there's something about announcing a direct sales business that sends people running for the hills...(or is that just me)...and I was half-expecting to lose some followers. Instead, I felt supported...which means that I obviously have the best readers and friends. Duh. {I even got an order - thanks, Kelley, for being my very first customer! And I "met" an awesome reader who is thinking about becoming an Independent Consultant!}

Anyhoo, I've had some questions asked of me that I'd like to address. And then there are the questions I KNOW you're thinking...

Kim, is this all you're going to talk about now?
No.
But here's the thing: I am having tons of fun learning the business {I really think my brain was craving something simple to focus on -- the fact that I was called a nasty name at work and have recently witnessed fights, drugs, and cops on my school campus REALLY fueled this change}. It's new so it will take time and energy to get things going. And since it's on my mind, it will show up online from time to time. <--I'm a damn poet, and didn't even know it.

Are you going to bug me about this? I'm kind of afraid to be around you now.
No.
Please don't be scared.
Remember when I asked for your votes when I was up for Sacramento's Most Valuable Blogger? Every single day? THAT was obnoxious, right? I promise it won't be like that.

Are you going to ask me to host a party for you?
No.
Those parties suck. And if this product required parties, I would not be selling it.

Are you serious? This doesn't seem like something you'd do.
I am and it's not. Which should say a lot about how much I believe in this business. For me, it was seeing a friend do really well at Rodan+Fields that motivated me to take the leap. And just the desire to try something new, something that is totally simple and fun and has potential.

Those products are expensive.
It depends how you look at it. The products are packaged for 60 days, so the prices you see reflect a hefty supply. Also, if you become a Preferred Customer, there is 10% discount + free shipping. Independent Consultants also receive a nice discount. ;)

But still.
The products work, they last, and they come with a 60 day money back guarantee. Here's a great review by someone who isn't selling it.

A link to my website is in my sidebar, or you can go here. Those of you who already contacted me {like you, Nicole :), I will be returning emails tonight after work. Assuming I don't get cussed out again.

One more thing...if you are in the Sacramento-ish area...my partner is hosting a lunch at a yummy Mexican restaurant next week. Chips and margaritas, anyone? I'd REALLY love some support. If you can make it, I'll send you the info.

changing things up a bit

2012-10-15T06:45:00.000-07:00

I’ll keep this simple and to the point.

My skin looks terrible and I want a new job.

Enter my friend Kristi (from my very first baby playgroup SEVEN years ago…say what?).

Last year she started posting pictures on Facebook that quickly caught my attention.

No. Not THOSE pictures.

Pictures like this.

And this.

{That’s Kristi’s mom, BTW.}

Then Kristi started mentioning making some side money.

That REALLY got my attention.

We met for coffee and Kristi looked amazing. She told me all about her new position at Rodan + Fields. You’ve heard of Proactiv? Same doctors, new skincare line with an anti-age focus this time.

I was intrigued, but the timing just wasn’t right.

Via Facebook I kept seeing those before and after pictures and congratulatory updates of her successes. I was ~~jealous~~ thrilled for her.

THEN, Kristi posted about a trip she had earned – an all-expenses paid trip to Napa. ~~I died a little inside~~ I was so happy for her.

So I contacted her again. You know, to ~~convince her to pack me in her suitcase~~ congratulate her. We chatted some more and she invited me to a local event to meet other Rodan + Fields partners. I heard from women, my age, who had great skin AND were making bank.

Those of you who know me know that I don’t do these things. Ever. But I’ve seen firsthand how well the products work. AND I’ve seen a longtime friend with amazing skin make money and earn a trip to Napa.

I’m tired of my bad skin and want a new job.

I’m sure you can guess where this is headed. I am now working with my friend{!} as an official Rodan + Fields Independent Consultant. I will be posting progress shots (of myself AND my husband); I’ll also keep you updated when I earn an iPad, a trip to Bora Bora, and enough to quit my job. It WILL happen.

Meanwhile, please check out my website for products and consultant openings. I'm already working with one friend and I'd love to work with more. Email, call, text, comment, Facebook -- feel free to send any and all questions my way. And if you know anyone who might be interested, I’d really appreciate the referral.

Thanks for your support!

31 days of my non-Pinteresting life: day twelve

2012-10-12T08:19:00.000-07:00

There's a new crop of blogger OOTD {Outfit Of The Day, for the non-bloggers out there - don't ever say I've never taught you anything} pictures making their way around the Interwebs. Once upon a time I used to detail my outfits on my blog...I don't have a problem with those posts at all...in fact, I get some great ideas from them. Or things NOT to do.

The issue I'm having lately is the self-portrait pose. These bloggers are, from what I can gather, holding their cameras out in front of them and shooting down toward their feet. I can assume that this is a great way to capture the outfit without worrying about the face. {That's a whole different thing in and of itself. What do you do with your face when taking a self-portrait? Smiling looks forced...my non-smiling face is laced with I'M A BITCH...it's a real pickle, I tell ya.}

Here's what happens when I attempt that pose. {FYI, these are not meant to show you my amazing outfits. Because there is nothing amazing about them. Just trying the pose.}

Oh hi, I look pregnant. And even over my tummy you can still see my hobbit feet. Maybe it's the shirt. I'll try again tomorrow.

Oh hi, I have no waist. And there's those big feet again. And for the record, I never noticed I was bow-legged.

If you are able to successfully take these photos, I hate you and your definable waist and skinny, straight legs and proportionate feet.

Other non-Pinteresting posts here.

kids, lately

2012-10-11T12:36:00.001-07:00

I really like my kids lately...as long as we are OUT of the house. Inside the house all they do is argue and yell and complain and fight. It's annoying and makes me want to run away. So we've been trying to get OUT when we can.

The weekdays are go-go-go, go to school, go to work, go do homework, blah blah blah. It's exhausting. Friday is the best day, don't you think? There's no homework and it's full of potential. And recently our weekend weather has been perfect. No excuse to stay in.

Here's what we've been up to the last few weeks...

Nevada City

Family Dinners

Diner Dinners

The Beach

Exploring

Apple Hill

{not staged - they were seriously tripping out over these wind catchers}

Old Sacramento

Olive oil tasting for us...

...while the kids ate their candy...

I say this all the time, and it's worth repeating: I LOVE where I live.