House of Me

So long...

2010-05-02T12:08:00.000-07:00

I have loved this blog for so long even though it has been a long time since I have written here. I just remember the early days of Shake Your Booty Now and it is where I learned to stretch my wings. I have grown out of this old house. I am on a new path. I have yet to find my niche but I have imported all my posts over to a clean slate. If you would still like to visit me please email me and I will happily share the link. I can't promise you I will be interesting. Thank you for your support and reading my ramblings.
Much love, Nikki
nikki.snevets@gmail.com

Loss

2009-01-11T11:47:00.000-08:00

I was young
I needed you
yet you still had to go
an awful disease
my youth taken
I had to grow up
see with new eyes
my heart broken
my life on another path
I was alone
on a path I had not chosen
a path that was chosen for me
one that I was born to walk
the real me

I am older
wiser
my heart is bigger
because of my loss
my loss is who I am
more so than the life before
you died
I am breathing because you gave me life
I am living because you
died
my heart still aches
dreams of loss
I am still here walking my path
with my own family
my heartache still there
though it is something
I can live with
It is dull but
a reminder of who I am
who you were
Mother

Halloween 2008

2008-11-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

Luke Skywalker and Indiana Jones. Tons of candy. Great night.

My new Old Jeans

2008-10-12T15:24:00.001-07:00

These jeans were once Scott's Uncle Doug's. When he was in the Navy! They are so cute. The moths at Yankanuck I think ate some of the jean so I put a butterfly patch on them. Cute huh?

For Shirani

2008-09-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

Inside the barn. Not that spectacular right now. One day we will have our very own Sadie Hawkins Dance, and everyone is invited!

2008-09-21T12:53:00.000-07:00

First day of school

2008-09-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Adie started Kindergarten this year and Nicolas is in the 4th grade. Adie had a hard first week but now it is all good. He already has made good friends and hopefully we will have a few playdates after school this week. Nicolas as usual has a gaggle of friends. They are all the biggest dorks on the planet. I am learning most 4th grade boys are. Nicolas starts playing the violin this week, tomorrow in fact. When he really starts to practice I will post some video footage so you amy all here the beautiful sounds of beginning violin.

Sunflowers

2008-09-21T06:03:00.000-07:00

This spring we planted a ton of sunflowers along side of our barn. We had a pretty good crop. I just love them. I am so bad about blogging these days. Well I guess for the past year. I want to blog but I can't. I will try to post atleast pictures for all two of you who may still check in on me. Xoxoxo, N

Sprinkler+Trampoline=

2008-08-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

Double the fun! See?

Our Public Pool

2008-07-06T16:40:00.001-07:00

We went to our public pool tonight. It was short and sweet just how Mama and Daddy like it.. I just put my feet in. I know I am tons of fun. I don't like cold water.. I won't swim until August. I am weird, I know. I am not a water person. I ma glad the kids are not like me... It is lonely.

Indian Brook

2008-07-06T16:30:00.000-07:00

It was a gorgeous day!! Scott and Adie took the canoe to fish and I just paddled around in the kayak(thanks Sally and Wicker). I would go off and float and read then paddle back to the boys and see what they have caught. Adie caught 2 large mouth bass and a perch. He has so much patience.. Thank goodness for my book or wouldn't last as long as the boys..

By the way I started the Wednesday Letters last night and I am about 50 pages away from being done.. I like it.

My Art Journal

2008-07-06T05:38:00.000-07:00

So here are some pictures of my art journal that I made in my own "art camp". I went to a junk store and bought a few used children's books and then gesso'd them. I got sick of gesso(ing) so I just painted a background color over the pages. The only thing I don't like is the fact that everything is wet and you can only do one page a day... It was awesome to take all of my supplies and collections and strew them across the floor and let anyone use what moved them. It was freeing... And messy. I had to use the kitchen for it is the biggest room in our house... Seeing that it is the kitchen I did have to clean up "art camp" and move it all back up to my room where I have a corner.. I will have to set up again up there in hopes to create something EVERYDAY! I am not sure when this will happen though...
**I just finished my class I was taking.. I got an A! Now I am back at work for special-ed summer school. It is crazy. There are a lot of kids but I think the worst part is that there is a lot of staff too! In fact I would love to vent more about this issue but I don't want to bore anyone...
***I want to start the book An Artist's Way but I want a book buddy so I have someone to discuss with.. Sort of like the Finding Water group last year. Anyone interested?
**Here is what I am starting to read....
Three Cups of Tea
The Wednesday Letters
Love in the time of Cholera (I am not loving this book)
I am off to go kayaking at Indian Brook Reservoir. We went last night and it was great but I didn't bring my camera. So today I am bringing my camera and hopefully post my beautiful oasis later.

My Version....

2008-06-27T05:49:00.000-07:00

Dancing Mermaid is one inspiring chick.. I read her every post. In honor of her I declared Wednesday art camp day. I got out all my supplies invited friends over and created beautiful art journals. In fact I haven't taken down the "artcamp" yet. I find myself making sandwiches for the boys and then I look over and see all those paints and think I can paint a page. Here and there I I collage a journal page throughout my day. It is not ideal I suppose but it is a way to create when I have to be doing other things. Like making lunches, laundry etc... I am off to Smugglers Notch for a hike with the kids and Aunt Sally. I will post more later... I am hoping to back in full creative force because as of this morning I am officially done with my writing class! I loved taking it but I am glad I can work on being creative in another way. Also, my night-stand is overflowing with books that I want to start reading and some I need to finish. Here is my reading list right now:
Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia-Marquez
Sabines Notebook, The Gryphon, The Golden Mean all by Nick Bantock

Ooh and my other news... I won a Vera Bradley Tote at the local hallmark store.

Visit Dancing Mermaid-make an art journal!

My Flowers

2008-06-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

Most of these flowers are already established y the previous owners. Last year we were still Erie when all the lilies bloomed so this is the first season we get to see them in bloom. I have also planted Glads and we planted various size and color sunflowers along the barn. I can't wait til they are fully grown. The front of the house is not as nice. The house essentially sits on the street at a stop sign. I just cleaned it up out there. In hopes drivers won't be as inclined to litter on our doorstep. I have only 2 weeks off until I start working again. I have spent a lot quality time with the boys which has been fun yet frustrating. The two of them fight a lot. Also staying home I spend a lot more money. I feel like I am just throwing money out the window. I haven't really been extravagant well okay we went mini golfing and to the driving range.
Today it is raining and we are just going crazy. have a nice day.

RACE DAY!

2008-05-25T03:26:00.000-07:00

Today is the Marathon in Burlington VT. I am pretty nervous. I did "train" a little. I got sick and for the last 2 weeks was not able to run. I have to run the last leg of the marathon, 5.6 mi. Please think of me today. Visualize my body light as air spinning the road beneath my feet. PLEASE imagine this. I am sure it will be fun but I just want to skip the running part and head on to the reap the rewards part. I f I have any pictures I will post them as soon as I can. My life is busier than usual right now, school is winding down and I believe that is what is making me so tired and I am taking an online course right now, critical thinking and expository writing. O, fun news: I got a new camera for Mothers Day, Canon Powershot S5 iS. It is pretty cool but haven't had any time to figure out how it works. Love to all, happy Memorial day!

Creative Sunday

2008-04-27T16:08:00.001-07:00

Another beautiful day here in VT. Today we really took time off from the chores to sit down and spend some time doing what we love. So I set the kids up with all the paint they could want and I actually sat down and painted too... It felt good to let the kids do what they want as well as letting myself go... I have a hard time letting go. I feel like I am a hoarder. I have tons of supplies right now but all I do is let them sit out and collect dust... I really think I need to start practicing the power of now. NOW. NOW.. NOw... I have to live in the now... Not yesterday and what could have been,. Not tomorrow and what I could do if I had this or that, time. Now. Be here, Be Present. I love you all.

Ping Pong On the Go.

2008-04-27T06:44:00.001-07:00

It was Friday night and we were thinking about going to Manhatten Pizza. We could shoot some pool, drink a pitcher of beer and let all our kids run around.... Well Sally my sis-in-law said "Wait, we will be right there. I have a present that might change our minds about taking the kids out at 8pm." Sure enough "pong on the go". No, we did not put it on our LONG PONG LIKE farm house TABLE. Scott likes it right on our little granite counter. "Its more fun that way." Sorry Jason and Alanna we didn't pull this out when you two were over. We didn't want you have too much fun here on the island.
Anyone up for some pong?

A lovely day.

2008-04-27T06:33:00.000-07:00

We are having the best weather here in VT! Last weekend we went to Shelburne Farms. The farm was not officially open but we were able to walk to the barn see some chickens and lambs... We also had a lovely picnic on the lawn. This is our chicken friend who wanted in on the action... Pretty chicken right? I have some cute pictures of Adie and our friends little girl but I feel like I shouldn't post them til I get their permission.

House of Me: As of late...

2008-04-02T16:56:00.000-07:00

I did just write a post but I had orginally started the post back in Feb so that is where it stayed. If you are interested here is a link:
House of Me: As of late...

101 things in 1001 days

2008-02-25T18:35:00.001-08:00

end date nov 26 2010

1. read an artist way
2. guerilla art
3. sell some art
4. have an art show
5. practice yoga everyday
6. go back to school(college)
7. start knitting again. finish one thing
8. learn how to use my sewing maching
9. make myself some clothing
10. meditate
11. blog everyday
12. get a new camera
13. finish a New Earth-and understand it
14. send out just because packages to my friends, maybe even a stranger
15. ski
16. make some new friends
17. make someone happy
18. actually wirte in Adie's baby book
19. run a leg in the marathon(5.5)
20.send everyone in my address book an email that states how they make me feel or encouraging words to them

only 81 more to go... this is harder than I anticipated. this is only a rough draft. i felt as though I ahould post it.. makes it more real.. and you need to help me stick with it...

As of late...

2008-02-17T16:54:00.000-08:00

Ok I said no blogging but I found myself with some time.... These are the things I am thinking about and doing... Thought I would share... Well not so much sharing I guess than it is getting outside my head....

I have been surfing new blogs.... You may have noticed a couple of new ones on my bloglines.. I would link these folks but they are already on my blogroll so if you haven't checked them out please go pay a visit. I must admit I am a bit os a "lurker" on some of them. I am too intimidated by their beauty, loveliness, their art to actually make any comments... I know, stupid.
Dancing Mermaid~She is gorgeous. Her photographs are beautiful.. I really do believe she is a mermaid. She also paints rocks which I love. I too collect and paint rocks. She writes beautifully. Oh and she dresses her cat in a tutu. I love tutus. I can't seem to make myself buy one though. I would wear one say, if I got it as gift... Hint, hint;)

As for new interests in bloggy world. Bluepoppy is another blog I read Everyday. I am not sure of the woman's name but she is hysterical! My friend and fellow blogger Misty told me about her a long time ago and now a year or so later I am just tuning in..
Better Now is another good blog. This woman is so funny and she writes beautifully. I eat up anything she writes.
There is also a new blog called Blogtations. It quotes many blogs out there... So many great blogs out there I just love this one becasue I can get snipets of other souls that I would not otherwise get to read...

I read 2 books this week: Promise Not to Tell by Jennifer McMahon -a VT author. I didnt really like this book. Ok it was somewhat entertaining but I closed it feeling empty handed.
Book #2 Bridges of Madison County by Robert James Waller- I had never read this book before. I know I am a little behind. I LOVED IT. I found it so inspiring. So magical. While home sick today I finished it. I cried and cried. I was so sad. I want to feel the inspiration I felt in the begining but to be honest I feel broken, my heart is heavy. Not whole. I was sad for Robert and Francesca but I think ultimately I was sad for myself... I think this maybe a topic for another time. These are the parts of the book that stood out to me that I felt I needed to highlight:
"intelligence and passion born of living, the ability to move and be moved by the subtleties of the mind and spirit,were what really counted."
"Analysis destroys wholes. Some things, magic things, are meant to stay whole. If you look at their pieces they go away."
"To the Universe four days is no differentthan four billion light years. I try to keep that in mind."

I think this post is too long so I am going to say ta-ta for now....
If anyone would like these books, let me know-I will share the magic.
xoxox

Valentine's Day

2008-02-17T16:19:00.000-08:00

I had such a great Valentines. I got this great necklace by this lovely artist . I did have to put in my husband's bookmark bar marked "I WANT THIS". It has taken me a long time to be okay with telling him exactly what I want. He is not a good shopper. I used to just wait for him to think of something to get me and was always disappointed if it wasn't what I had imagined in my head. What he does do perfectly and I guess sort of romantic is serve me my coffee in bed EVERY MORNING. He has been doing this for years. He also starts my car every morning. I am think that is romantic too.
These bookmarks were my Valentines to my 3 guys. I also made some girly ones for my peeps at work and some more for the kiddos in my classroom. They showered me with their wonderful handmade Valentines as well and lots of chocolate. I am so lucky.

Lordy Lordy Look Who's....

2008-02-17T16:11:00.000-08:00

5!!!!!
Adie, our difficult, youngest, and last child is 5. He is the apple of our eye but also the migraines that live behind them. He really has come a long way. He used to be a Mama's boy. He used to hide behind my legs in every social situation. He used not know how to spell his name. He barely had friends. BUT NOW... He is in a preschool/daycare that adores him. If I do say so myself he seems to be quite popular. He has tons of friends. Friends that he shares with. Friends that HE LOVES and makes pictures for every night. Friends that jump up and down when he arrives and stand at the windows waving goodbye when he leaves. Adie is special. When he is good he is magnificant. When things are bad we all cry.. I will say, now he is 5 he really has come a long way baby. He is not really screaming and demanding. He is playing and loving and we are eating him up.

To Blog or Not to Blog

2008-01-08T16:58:00.000-08:00

I am sorry it has been so long since I have updated. By the way Ashley, it hasn't been 4 months:)! Some may know, some may not but I am on this crazy roller coaster of life. I know in a previous post I said I was back to my old self.. Well that may be the problem. I think my hardest challenge right now is to find balance. There are so many things I want to do, say and be and well I..... Well I can't. I am no superhero y'all. The thoughts and inspirations for this blog have fallen to the waistside. I guess what I am trying to say is I want/need quality over quantity. I do not want to post here if I can't be true, inspiring and creative. I guess that is why I started(tried to) a new blog. I thought it would spark something in me. All it did was add one more thing to my list of things I am not doing. That list is getting long! Today while making bread(uh-huh that is right)a light came on and that voice said "take some time off". Unfortunately that did not mean Mexico-but I think it is good advice in some areas in my life. I am rereading Eat,Pray, Love again and Liz heard her voice saying "go back to bed".. Such simple pratical advice. Maybe life changing. It was for her.. So I am not going to post here or anywhere for a little bit. I will however be reading my entire blogroll and some others religiously(sick isn't it). I love my bloggy friends and I don't want to lose any of you.. I love this house. I just can't keep up with housework. Please email me if you would like to chat. I am little low on the friends here in VT. Peace and love.
nikki.snevets@gmail.com
Check back because you never know....

Va-va-voom.....

2007-12-03T14:23:00.001-08:00

I got a new haircut! I have not had bangs for awhile. I love it. Ok so part of me feels like Katei Holmes. Hahaha. Can't believe I said that aloud. We had a snowday today. My sister-in-law was nice enough to watch the kiddos while I got my new look... We hung at her hosue for awhile today eating homemade chicken noodle soup and sledding in her backyard. We just may have another snowday tomorrow. Yip-pee. But it hard to show off the new do when you are all bundled up. Xoxox

I can see clearly now, the rain is gone....

2007-11-26T15:30:00.001-08:00

Wow I was a bummer.... I am sorry. Sorry to my readers, sorry to my friends and family that suffered... NOw I feel great though! Maybe it is because I got it all out? I got my period(TMI, i know)? My finger is not as bad off as we once thought? 5 days off really left me feeling like I have a grip on home life, my kids, my husband? Well I think it ALL helped. So now I will try to write more inspiring words and post wonderful photos. I have been trying to get some nice shots of the mountains but I either don't have my camera on me or it is cloudy and rainy. Here is a picture of me and my new attitiude.

The weight of water.

2007-11-18T05:47:00.000-08:00

"I vowed then to keep as still and as silent as possible so that the strong emotions that threatened to consume me might come under my control, in much the same way that a drowning man, clinging to a life raft, will know that he cannot afford to wail or cry out or beat his breast, and that it is only with the utmost reserve and care and patience that he will be able to remain afloat until he is saved." Maren writes in Weight of Water

This speaks volumes to me..

This is suppose to be fun right?

2007-11-14T16:16:00.000-08:00

My first attempt at drawing and then painting.. I had to leave it because I was getting so frustrated. Now I have started to collage and paint over the top and then I will use sand paper and blend it all. This is plan. Will it work. I hope so.

Self Portrait Challenge~November~

2007-11-14T03:40:00.001-08:00

I thought my finger saga would go well with the "what I wear" theme... 3 hours in the er they tell me YES it is infected and I should not have waited this long. Duh. That is why I am here now... They would not cut me open like I pleaded. I have to go to a hand doctor. Probably to do some exploring in my lil ole finger. They are concerned that my infected absess is getting into my tendons(i think). They do not want it to travel into my hand. Soo I must call the hand ortho today, start my antibiotics, and wear this finger brace at work so I stop agitating it. Have a great day everyone.

see more wardrobes at SPC

Yikes!

2007-11-13T13:07:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken on August 14th. A day after I stupidly broke up a standoff between my dog and another. Here it is -oh my gah-exactly 3 months later. I would take an updated picture of my finger but don't you think one is enough? Ok so the point of the story is IT HAS NOT HEALED! I can't really straighten my finger and there are two big lumps and a weird thing in the middle. It hurts to touch or use. I keep thinking it will get better. Well it never has. I am embarassed I let this go on. Lately it has been hurting and this morning my finger was a little swollen. I went to our school nurse and she was upset I never had it checked and I should have it checked immediately(MRSA and all). So that is whats on tonights agenda:( I am going to a walk-in care center. I tried to go this afternoon but I did'nt have the spare 2.5 hours to sit int the waiting room. Well look out Fanny Allen, I got all night. I did manage to get a work out in though so I feel great-lookin pretty good too. Hahaha! I trade one OCD vice for another... I am bummed that I have to go to the Drs. I am hoping I get some sort of big cast and pain pills. Yes I am that dramatic too. I am also hoping I'll come home with a good blog post. This one won't be hard to beat right? Anyone want to join me in the ER? I wish you were here girls(Ashley, Shirani and JOy) so you could sit with me. I know you are all happy that I am finally going, I will let you know if I have MRSA. Wish me luck!

Yada Yada

2007-11-12T15:38:00.000-08:00

I have this thing.. I talk too much. Especially when I am nervous. Most of the time it is okay but lately I can't shut up. I say things that I shouldn't.. Then I feel embarassed, stupid, bad and I try and recover.. Which makes it all worse. I leave work and I question myself, did I talk too much? Am I too much? Do they like me? Am I as funny as I think I am? Then I make a pact with myself that tomorrow, I will be different. I will think before I speak. I will tone back the personality. Guess what? I can't do it! I guess I am spilling all of this because work was hard today. Emotionally. I just can't carry all these words around anymore. My thoughts and feelings have been all over the place. I feel very intense. It is like all my senses are on high alert. My emotions/feelings are so raw. I am giving up restraint. If it all backfires then I guess I will have to pick my head up and keep walking. I am ME and I think I am worth it.. Ok maybe I am sounding hokey now. I am hoping positive thinking will help me. I have been trying to listen to the Universe lately(U doesn't have my new email address;))and I think my brain is getting the messages all wrong. Or I am interepeting wrong.
So looked to my Oracle cards and with some intent.... This is the card I pulled.
SERENITY
Card Meaning: You are moving into a time of greater inner peace and tranquility. (I really would like to guffaw at this)
Here is some of what the card said.. "Peace of mind means feeling secure, and knowing that you're always provided for.....YOU can feel serene, even in the midst of great turmoil....... Serenity is your natural state of mind."
I really need to start practicing this idea of thinking and believing. Faith.

*** I see that I did not get my links back.. So sorry friends. Also I have started another blog. I am still unpacking the boxes and I hope to post there soon.. If you would like the address, email (or something).

Project Abracadbra

2007-11-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

I went to the gym tonight. Whoo-hoo. I am feeling great. A little tired but great. The title of this post is what I call my mid- section. I thought it was funny. I sit in boat position with a 4 lb ball and twist. And repeat. This is my favorite. It doesn't sound like -you know-hardcore but I just want to make those noises I hear those big guys over in the barbell section(dumbbell if you ask me). I think I could be a little obsessed with my body. Not in the way that I am consumed with looking good(hardcore) but I think about my body a lot. How I look and maybe what other people see.... I think it is a bad habit....

I am still working on changing the blog.. As you can see I reverted back to the old template. I didn't like not having my blogroll. I have so much bloggy love for you all I couldn't bare to keep you off. I am also thinking about starting another blog. I feel as though this blog is a very editted version of me. Those who are close to me tend to read too much into my ramblings and then I have to explain myself. I don't want to explain myself. I want to ramble and feel what I feel at that particular moment.... I want to reach out and connect and I hope maybe sometimes my words may resonate with someone else for whatever reason. I can't explain my words. They are what they are and they only mean something to me...

Grey's is on...

What I am working on...

2007-11-06T14:32:00.001-08:00

These are the collages I worked on last weekend. I have made sure that I am getting dirty and making huge messes too. I hope to do some more this coming weekend. I make something and I just want to give it away though. I get so excited and I can't stand to have lying around. I have been sitting around since 3 pm trying to get this Blogger Layout thing. I hate Blogger. I do not think it is user friendly. I seem to have lost all my links. So I am sorry my blogging friends. I didn't DELETE you. I have also changed the title. Nothing is definate (ahem Ashley). I love the shake your booty now address(I say that phrase all the time-I swear). I am just not sure it fits as a blog title anymore. I also have asked for banner help and two good friends have reached out to help me. Misty made me a great banner(just for me) but Blogger won't download it. Ok they(probably) will download but not in any timely manner. I waited 20 minutes but I think that is all I can handle. Nicole also sent me some good advice but to no avail I have no banner. Boo-hoo. Thank you girls. I will keep working on it. Maybe I should move? Suggestions?

Self Portrait Challenge~November~

2007-11-06T13:30:00.000-08:00

What you wear...

This is what I wore to work today. More of a casual day. I had to take my student swimming so I got to wear comfy clothes. Yay. Only in VT can you wear thick (cute too) socks with your crocs.

see more wardrobes at SPC

New look

2007-11-05T16:40:00.000-08:00

As you can see I am changing things around. Trying to anyway. I think the interenet is too busy right now so I can't do what I would like. Blogger also said that I would be able to change fonts and colors.. Are these empty promises? Is time to find a new bloggy home? Suggestions anyone?

Random

2007-11-05T15:58:00.000-08:00

I have no pictures to share today. I have run out of batteries. I managed to take pictures last night of the two mixed media collages I am working on. Those pictures took all the juice my NIKON had. Now I can't download them. So, sorry. It will keep you checking in on me..:)
I got my new ipod nano today. I opened a bank account andwith so many automatic deposits I got a free nano. My first ipod was stolen out of my car. Well my new nano is the latest version which I am psyched. It is shiny. I am like a bird. No really when it plays it shows the album covers. I didn't have too much energy so I only put on a few albums. Ones that I haven't been able to listen to adn that are new. I have recently been turned on to the Weepies. I can't tkae out the earphones. I love it. Not that I know what actual album it is. It has the song Gotta Have You. OMG. That song make my stomach hurt. Of course I listen to it over and over. The Weepies have been suiting my mood lately. No I am not weepy just hmmmmm. Introverted? Manic thoughts? Artistic? Well, all those things.

my heart aches
my head spins
i know the truth
the truth is hard
denial is blissful

stop
i can do this
stop
no i can't

trust
believe
breathe

swirly sinking
rise up
take a deep breath

down again
tears

twitrling
twirling
twirling

Anyone?

2007-11-04T04:49:00.001-08:00

I want to make a banner. I need help. I have no idea where to begin. Is there anyone that could help with this? Do you think you could help thruough an email? If so please email me. I think my blog look is boring.
I am not sure if you can get my email through here. Here it is:
nikki.snevets@gmail.com

Friends

2007-11-02T14:59:00.000-07:00

These are my best girls. I am sure I have mentioned them before. Ashley and Shirani . I just wanted to give them a shout out because they both made me smile big this weekend. They know me so well. I hardly have to write anything on this blog and they just know when to call. Both of them called me this weekend to see if I was ok. I am very OK but I needed to talk to my girls and get some crazy girl talk. They both gave me exactly what I needed. I am so lucky. I am sorry that I moved away from you. I miss you both terribly and deeply. Thankgoodnes for the "IN" calling plan.
Cheers to my girls.

Halloween House

2007-10-31T15:48:00.000-07:00

Halloween Kids

2007-10-31T15:45:00.000-07:00

Halloween

2007-10-31T15:39:00.000-07:00

This is my first time staying behind and passing out the candy. I always thought of the walking around the neighborhood as more fun of the options. I think I was wrong all this time. Right now I am sitting at my computer with a glass of wine and a CAULDRON of candy. The good stuff too. I am not getting too many trick-er-treaters. Bummer. I am also jamming out to the MOnster Mash cd. This is a picture of me dancing...

I have so many feelings/thoughts dancing around in my head.. I can't seem to get them out, or maybe I shouldn't share them at all. All I know is while my mouth is closed my body must move..

My scary noise maker out front is banging at the door and giving me the willies....

Self Portrait Challenge~November~

2007-10-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

This month's them is WHAT DO YOU WHERE??????

Well I definately start my outfits with a bra and underwear. I try to have them match but sometimes that doesn't always happen. You know, can't get all the laundry done-blah, blah. I bought some new bras recently. It occurred to me that the bras I normally wear make me look like I have a mono-boob. I just assume because I am a negative A cup my breasts don't need a real bra. Well I am treating them right nowadays. I know have some shape and some padding and I am loving it. I know it doesn't seem like a big deal but for me it is like I am carrying around jugs. I also have a little more self esteem in that department. This morning I thought I would photograph my work outfit. My outfits are not that far off from my everday but I try not to wear elastic waist pants. Haha! Well I saw my reflection in the window(yes, the open window facing all the traffic) and I liked what I saw. Well I thought it would be a cool picture. Here you go.. Ta-da!

What do you wear?

How I spent my time camping.....

2007-10-11T13:16:00.001-07:00

I sat by the waters edge with my SPiderman cup of wine and started The Artist's Way. I read about this book through some other bloggers(I think Acumamakiki). I wanted to give it whirl. I do love the morning pages but they are hard to write at 5:15 in the a.m.. I want to create but I can't find the time and I can't seem to get my ideas out. Hopefully this helps.

Camping

2007-10-10T14:47:00.001-07:00

We camped a couple of weeks ago.. It was our way of saying goodbye to summer. We had dogs and marshmallows. Lots of beer and wine and live music by the fire. Also we had crazy Uncle Hank(bandana, harmonica player). I can't even write about him because words cannot describe this amazing weirdo. See? That sentence made no sense.

SPC~September wk #4

2007-09-25T16:50:00.001-07:00

Hiding in the Bathroom

Hiding from "MOOOMMMMEEEE"
Just a few minutes PLEEEAASEEE! For goodness sakes I just got home too and I really need to check Celebrity Smack.
Gah.

more bathrooms here

I need help.

2007-09-19T16:34:00.001-07:00

I am just not creative anymore. I think I am blocked. I feel like I have nothing. It all started when we were selling our PA house. I was too busy to do anything. I couldn't go to Yoga and I definately could not sit down and do something on paper or computer. Then we moved and I got a full time job, new schools for everyone, boxes to unpack, family to catch up with... There is so much to do that I can no longer do anything I enjoy. I want to blog more, I want to write, I want to paint and collage and I can't. My body is getting a little used to the new job thing so I am not as tired(I also have a glass of wine every night and that helps)so tonight I went to my creative space, put on girly music. I manage to paint a base on two tiny canvases and then I stopped. It was all I had. I'm not really taking pictures and I even don't leave comments anymore on other blogs. I lost my oomph. I read my entire blogroll everyday and I am inspired by all the pics and words but my envy is for their(your) creativity is strong so I don't try. I sound so whiney. I am also the queen of the run on sentence. Advice? Give me back my creativity?

Tye-Dye

2007-09-19T16:32:00.000-07:00

Thats right. When in Rome.

The Great Escape, Lake George NY

2007-09-19T16:25:00.000-07:00

Scott and his sister Sally decided to take the plunge. This was the scariest ride-well if you ask me. I screamed anytime I watched anyone do it... Yikes. It was so fun to see someone I know do it...

Vermont's Girl!

2007-09-11T16:40:00.000-07:00

This is Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. She is from VT. In fact my sister-in-law was her teacher when she was in 1st/2nd grade! It was my sister that turned me on to her. I couldn't find the video I wanted from youtube but if you can check out her new cd-go to Mr. Columbus. It rocks. I hop you enjoy a piece of VT, Vt's girl.

First day of School

2007-09-04T17:54:00.001-07:00

Finally the first are over! Nicolas most days seems ok about the move. We did have one big meltdown but I think it was long over due. I just encouraged him to cry and scream and he now seems a lot better. He is making friends and he starts soccer this Thursday. He is always enthusiastic about meeting new people. I think he doesn't like knowing all the rules and routines. He is his mother. Adie was supper excited about school until he relaized hwo long and often he would be there(on day 2). We are on week 2 and he is ok. Not thrilled in the morning but when he is there and doing things he is soo happy. He already got his first cold. Yay daycare!
I am not sure if I mentioned what I was doiing these days... I am a paraprofessional in a public school for a young girls with cerebral palsy. She is wonderful. Her family is wonderful. I do all her personal care and I will start working with the special education department on her education goals. It is definately challenging. I am learning a lot. I do miss being at home with the boys. I do get out early but I hate not walking my kids to school. Not knowing the building they are in, the parents of their new friends. I am usually am wrapped up in their life. Now I feel a little removed.
I just need to adjust to our new life. And find balance.

Self Portrait Challenge~September~

2007-09-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

In the bathroom........

Me brushing my teeth... Exciting...

I have been going to bed sooo early. The kids like us to rub thier backs til they are asleep... ahem, I knwo this is a horrible habit. {cry } I am tired. I can't be a good parent after school. {more crying} I am making excuses. I am already starting to get use to my new work schedule and I am less tired tonight than I was last week. I miss TV. I think the kids have taken over. Help.

more restrooms here

SPC.... patterns(august)

2007-08-24T18:09:00.001-07:00

I know this is not the first picture of my foot BUT what can I say I am barely surviving over here. I just wanted to contribute to let you all know that I am here and I am looking at all your pictures.. No I am not stalking you. I am supporting you and your outlet. Geesh. I will be better at updating. Well I hope to.. There is so much I want to say but I think I am too scared. xoxo

check out all the wonderful patterns of life here

Spot is Nobody's bitch.

2007-08-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

We went for a family hike with Spot last night. We caught a ton of frogs and played with the a ton of dogs..... Then... We came across a dog that tried to tell Spot who was da Man. We have never seen Spot turn into Cujo before. He is NEVER the alpha dog. Anyway he got in a lil tiff and I made the mistake of trying to split them apart and Spot got my finger. Oooh. It hurts so bad. Thougt you would all like to see it.

Family Matters.. Part 2

2007-08-11T16:52:00.002-07:00

Family Matters.. Part 1

2007-08-11T16:49:00.000-07:00

Our first Sunday dinner with our family that we have missed... Can't wait til the holidays.

"Welcome to your New Home"

2007-08-11T16:47:00.000-07:00

says the bat.

Adie

2007-08-11T16:46:00.001-07:00

Adie was running form the fishing/swimming spot to the "froggin" spot. He loves to catch frogs.

Our Swimming Hole

2007-08-11T16:41:00.000-07:00

Indian Brook Resavoir. Heaven on earth when it is sooo hot. We go there atleast twice a day. A great spot for a hike, dog walk, camping, swimming, canoeing, fishing. All of these things we have already done! Come for a visit and I will take you there.

The New Yard

2007-08-11T16:39:00.000-07:00

Here is our yard. It is a lot to take care of. Ahem Scott to take care of. I haven't done anything with the yard because I have been just managing the inside.

Farmers Market

2007-08-11T16:38:00.000-07:00

We hit the farmers market every Saturday. It is to die for. Mind you those organic blue berries I threw up when my parents were visiting. Nice huh?

The House

2007-08-11T16:27:00.001-07:00

The previous owners assured me that the house would be cleaned form top to bottom so we may just unpack and settle in quickly. I understand that normally this is not the case with homeowners. We did for the new owners of our house. We just thought what goes around comes around. She DID SAY she was going to do it. She even gave us a walk through the day of the closing. I do believe she thinks she cleaned it BUT IT WAS GROSS in here. There was dog hair all over the counters... Cobwebs, dust bunnies, dog hair balls EVERYWHERE. There was her hair in the drain of the bath tub. She left me crap on the windowsills, like old olive oil or candles. She also left her plunger and toilet scrubby. YUCK. My cuz was here to talk me down from the ledge and help me clean. Well she did most of the cleaning. I just walked around in disbelief that this was my new life I had dreamed about.
Now I feel as though I have a better handle on things. I finally unpacked all the boxes in the kitchen and in my "art loft". I will post more pictures of the house once I get the rooms looking ready for public scrutiny.

The Drive

2007-08-11T07:04:00.001-07:00

We were on the road for 11 hours that day. The kids were fantastic. Each boy took a turn riding with Daddy. The truck was huge. We were surprised that Scott didn't need a special license to drive it.. We drove straight through with only 3 potty breaks. We are good at this traveling thing. We drove straight to my sister-in-law's and were greeted with a huge Welcome Home dinner party with our family who live here. It was bittersweet. As everything is right now. Is still refer to Erie as "back home".

Packing Up and Saying our Goodbyes

2007-08-11T06:55:00.000-07:00

The last few daysin PA were very hard. The pending goodbyes to our closest friends was horrible. Of course not as bad as the actual so long.. Shirani hung with me everyday, helping clean and pack up. Our tears were always ready to burst. Poor Ashley had to work and her family was needing her and so she lived in a state of denial. When we finally said good bye we were loud Oprah ugly crying in the hallway of our hotel. Shirani delayed her goodbye but it wasn't as hard because she is coming to VT next week. Although our goodbye here will be terrible. There are so many people I did not get to say goodbye(formerly)to... I miss everyone. I thought it would be the kids who'd have a difficult time. Nope, its their mother. We left our PA house perfect for the new owners.. Which the peeps we bought this house from was not as kind.. More about that later....

Hello out there!

2007-08-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

Oh my how I have missed you, my reader and my lil ole blog. Well we just got online today. So to get you updated....... I moved from Erie pa to my home state, VT. We have been unpacking and settling in for nearly two weeks. I am still very homesick(for erie and friends). My kids are doing great. I got a full time job in a school. We are still unpacking boxes, getting doctors, new licenses, bank accounts and all the fun stuff the comes with uprooting yourself. I am hoping that connecting here will help me feel more connected to my new everyday life. That is all for now.. I do have lots of pictures to show you. I can't wait to catch up with all of your blogs. Peace out. N

Karen

2007-07-19T16:56:00.000-07:00

My Yoga instructor, my friend.
I am not sure that I have the words that can express what I am feeling.. My heart breaks that I am leaving her and my other good friends behind. I can't write through the tears. Another time. xoxo

Progress

2007-07-19T16:54:00.000-07:00

The piles are getting bigger and bigger. I think we are doing well. Now we just have to load on to the truck.

No longer my yard or my flowers

2007-07-19T16:46:00.000-07:00

Well last friday we finally closed on our Erie house. It was such a relief. The idea of paying two mortgages was scary. Erie is not exactly an easy place to sell a house. Anyhoo, we did and the nice lady who bought the house is letting us stay in it rent free until we move to VT which is 10 days away. Everything here has been going very smoothly. I do wish it could be over so our life can get back normal. Atleast some resemblence of a routine. We haven't really been exercising or eating well. We have been partying with our friends a lot and that is good. I haven't blogged musch because it is too overwhelming. I want to have an outlet but here it feels like I owe it to everyone to be interesting. Actually this is boring me... Ok enjoy my flowers . I can't wait to show you my new house and flowers.

A Day in the Life of Spot

2007-07-19T16:44:00.001-07:00

It has been awhile since I have posted and who knows how long it has been since Spot has had a photo taken. Isn't he so cute?

Self Portrait Challenge~July~elements

2007-07-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

earth
beneath my feet
whispers of nature
in my ear

Love me some Krisy Kreme!

2007-06-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Oh besides the beach we are visitng any place that has air conditioning. Yup Krispy Kreme is on the AC list. Oh my days are sooo hard. Yum yum.

Self Portrait Challenge~June~environment

2007-06-28T07:43:00.000-07:00

More beach! I am trying to keep the kids busy and myself cool so we hit the beach atleast 3x a week. For my pastey self I look pretty tan. On Wednesday nights we have sunset concerts(I am using that term loosely) and this week I got to go by myself. Lucky me.

Working on be a good Mom....

2007-06-20T05:48:00.000-07:00

We went to a good friends house the other day and played a lot of golf(in and outside). The kids had a blast! Yesterday as the kids were crawling up my rear end with NOTHING TO DO(ya right) I thought maybe I could get a little putting green for them~just like at my friends house. Of course I looked online to see where I could purchase one or two. Well they were either expensive or "online only". That was not going help my "bored" kids right this minute!!!! So I thought about it and during the torrential down pour we hopped in the car and went to Lowes. Indoor/outdoor carpet is $2.65 a yard. That is all I needed! Then we went to Walmart for a little foam and boom, putting greens. I am so proud of myself. Adie is putting right now. Ahhhh. Peace. For now.

Create a Connection~show your shades

2007-06-20T05:45:00.000-07:00

Self Portrait Challenge~June~environment

2007-06-20T05:26:00.000-07:00

Arghhh. Moving. It is never easy. These boxes are filled witht the junk that we do not use! I have done a lot of purging but we still have a ton of stuff! Yikes. I sort of stopped the packing for right now. The move just feels so far away it is hard to pack anymore. I am just trying to be a fun Mom and keep everyone busy. Oh, I also killed the cable. It felt so great doing it BUT I am the one who is suffering. Nicolas doesn't know what to do with himself. Now that there is no cable our days are VERY LONG. I am reading a lot though. I am almost done with The Year Of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion~I started it on Monday. Next it is An Artsist Way by Julie Cameron. Life is good but it is hard work. Smile.

see more environments here

A Day at the Beach part 2

2007-06-12T05:22:00.001-07:00

A Day at the Beach

2007-06-12T05:14:00.000-07:00

Self Portrait Challenge~June~environment

2007-06-12T05:01:00.003-07:00

This is where I am most days, the beach. It is a perfect way to spend our last days here on Lake Erie.

see more environmentshere

Last Day of School

2007-06-07T17:43:00.000-07:00

Today was the very last day of school at our beloved Harding Elementary. Today was an exciting day but bittersweet. Nicolas and I both have great friends at the school. We will miss everyone dearly. The pictures are of our neighbor/friend that walk every morning with us.

Golfing in Vermont

2007-06-07T17:38:00.000-07:00

V to the T

2007-06-04T18:34:00.000-07:00

Thanks Shirani for this funny video about my homestate.

Lovely

2007-05-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

We are again off to Vermont to look for a house! Yay! We are so excited. I hope you all enjoy your weekend.

Adie

2007-05-25T07:05:00.000-07:00

Adie finally got a haircut. He did look cute with the long hair but it has been so hot lately and I also could not stand him looking at me through those bangs! I had to chase him down with the clippers but I finally got him to come down and we were able to have positive buzz cut experience. Yes I did it. No I would never pay for that haircut. Oh well.

Create a Connection

2007-05-25T07:01:00.001-07:00

Signs of Summer.

It has been over 80 degrees here the last few days. We were lucky enough to go to the beach with Ellie and Ashley. It is hot again today and we have already taken a walk and a bike ride. Beach now? Hopefully. I may need a nap.

Rhino Porn

2007-05-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

I know this seems to be a theme with me, Rhino parts. I am sorry. I am a sick person. But I think this is funny.

My Girls.

2007-05-21T05:32:00.000-07:00

These two are my very best friends. They are the ones I run to when I am sad. They are the ones I watch bad(but ooh so good) TV show with. They are the ones that I call EVERYDAY for no reason at all.. I love them. I am so lucky to have them. I will miss them.

New Shoes!

2007-05-21T05:30:00.001-07:00

I know some people hate these shoes BUT I LOVE THEM. Especially now because they come in maryjanes! Lucky me.

Me

2007-05-14T18:53:00.000-07:00

It was so nice to go back to Vt see my family. I spent most of my time with my cousin. Although I was there for very sad circumstances it was so good to be together. To cry, laugh, grieve together. Family really does make you stronger.

Kids

2007-05-14T18:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day

2007-05-14T18:39:00.000-07:00

We have been very busy with packing up the house and trying to fix it up so we may sell it.. I was away all last week and Scott has been manic trying to get stuff done.. Well it all caught up with him yesterday. Scott was on the ladder trying to put up the gutters when it slipped and he went flying into the air. He managed to tuck his head so his brains didn't splatter on the ground but his back landed on a rock(pictured above). He was ok for about 1/2 hour when he turned grey and started to faint. He asked to go to the hospital but a friend and I could not get him to the car. I had to call 911. 7 hours later we found out that Scott did break a tiny piece of his spine and there is nothing he can do except rest and take pain killers. It was a scary few hours(low blood pressure) but we feel that it was the universe's way of telling him to slow down. Relax. Enjoy our life and the exciting adventure ahead of us(you may never know what may happen that could change your whole future). I am grateful for Scott and is not so serious broken back. I will be checking in on all of you in the next few days. It is good to be back.

By the way this is my 200th post and one year blogging anniversary.

For Now.

2007-05-05T18:54:00.000-07:00

Adie and I are driving to VT tomorrow... Tragedy has struck my family. I am not sure if there is anything I can do but I need to be there. I am hoping my presence offers some sort of comfort. I won't be posting for awhile and sadly I won't be able to read you all either.. I will sure to check in as soon as I get back into town. Please send out love, comfort and peace for all of us..

Ooh. Sal and Wick, I probably won't be coming up to B-town. So sorry. Have to stay in Q. I love you. I will see you soon, neighbors.

OOh just like heaven

2007-05-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

We went to Krispy Kreme today. I love their donuts! They melt in your mouth.. I used to say that I could only eat one but today I broke my record~I ate 3! One raspberry filled and two glazed. Adie was a great date and he devoured a chocolate donut with sprinkles. I first picked up my donut and put it up to my eye to make Adie laugh.. He looked perfect. Then I thought to myself we really should look at all things through a glazed krispy kreme donut.. It really was beautiful. Try it.

Create A Connection~Journal Swap

2007-05-02T06:48:00.000-07:00

This is the journal I created for the swap... I am hoping it did not disappoint the recipient, Leah . She is a talented artist and I am just a novice. Again I have been so preoccupied because of our upcoming move that I have not put my heart in to alot things as of late. It is all I can do to take care of Adie and get to Yoga twice a week.

Geez I am a lot fun!

Okay I will step it up a little...

Self Portrait Challenge~May~hit the streets

2007-05-02T06:40:00.000-07:00

I love this challenge. I am sorry for the lame attempt. I feeling a little overwhelmed. I am finding it hard to focus.

see more streets here

Our Big News

2007-04-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

Last month I had mentioned an oppurtunitythat may be coming our way.. Well as of Tuesday it DID! We are moving back to Vermont. Scott got a job at a college there and I will probably have to work at a McDonalds just to make ends meet. We do not care because we are going back home. As excited as I am I am also sad to leave some very good friends. You know who you are... I will get sappy with y'all a little closer to moving day.. Which is in July. Feels far away now but as I have learned from past moves it will be here before we know it and it is never too early to start packing. Actually I am just wandering around my house sighing and then laying down on the couch.. It can wait til tomorrow right?

Adie Funny Video

2007-04-23T18:29:00.000-07:00

Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share Photos

A note from the Universe

2007-04-23T14:15:00.000-07:00

Your name is coming up again, Nikki. Whispered here, gossiped there.

And it's a good thing we don't have tabloids, because your picture would be everywhere. The gist being that your love life is about to take off!

First, you're going to be falling wildly in love with who you already are, becoming an irresistible magnet to others.

Then, as stars are rearranged and connections are made, you're literally going to feel the fire that sparked all creation. Hubba, hubba!

Finally, you're going to bathe forevermore in rays of pure ecstasy.

So... ready for step one?
The Universe

Sunday

2007-04-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

It was actually chilly at the beach but it looked beautiful! I again found more heart rocks and the kids found tons of shells.. We did not waste an ounce of sunshine this weekend.. It just felt so good. I hope you all had a great weekend.. xoxo

Great Day for the Zoo

2007-04-23T14:02:00.000-07:00

Saturday my BFFs and I took our kids to the zoo... It was a beautiful day.. I love my girls and their kids too... Ashley the picture of the rhino's butt is for you... I know you appreciate a good ass shot.. You have a size 4 butt to me:)

A Day in the Life of Spot

2007-04-23T13:50:00.000-07:00

Air Freshners $5 each
Cloths to clean couch and floors $10
Anal Sacs Expressed PRICELESS

Last week Spot was emmitting some horrible smells.. I am not just talking a gasy dog.. It was like he ate something that was dead.. It was horrible.. Then came the incurable licking of his butt. FYI, he was doing the licking no one else was... Well I won't even tell you what I found on the floor and couch(I believe it was what he was licking).. I am sure you are thinking I have already gone to far. Anyway it occurred to me that he needed to go to the Vet and get his glands checked. Yup that is right. Glands. You know where they are located? The nice lady stuck her finger up Spot's bum and voila a nice smelling dog again..
Interesting huh?

It is an honor just to be nominated..

2007-04-16T18:58:00.000-07:00

The lovely and talented Nicole
has nominated me for the thinking blogger award
She is such a sweetheart and I appreciate the thought but I am not sure if I am a "thinking blog". Maybe the you think 'Why the hell do you post so many pictures of your dumb dog?' Haha.. Anyways I am honored and I hope I can live up to it.. Here are my nominees:

JC
Acumamakiki
Suzie Q
Misty
Melanie