Another Home Tour

Last Sunday, Becky and I went on another home tour. This time to Windsor Square in the Scottsdale Camelback area and another girl Heather joined us. The homes and landscaping were beautiful. Very inspiring.

Coronado Home Tour

Two Sunday's ago, my new friend from book club, Becky, and I went to see the Phoenix Coronado home tour. The company was better than the tour, but I took a few pics none the less. Too bad they won't upload. Maybe later.

Tonya's new yoga mat bag

How cute is this!! Another gift for a friend who has so graciously taught a workout class at our church for free. Pattern from Lotta Jansdotter's Simple Sewing. Sorry the pic's weren't working before. Hopefully this will do it.

Self Magazine 2008 Challenge

I am up for the challenge. With my 10 year high school reunion quickly approaching, the thought that comes and goes about eating better and exercising more, finally leads to change. I joined Self Magazine's 2008 Challenge. It is mainly about getting healthy and reaching your happy weight. I am inspired by the pre-planned meals and exercise routines that don't immediately lead to boredom. I am one week in and have had to be extremely disciplined. With people eating nacho's and ice cream sundaes at work to still having some not so great snack food around the house, I strive to find the smaller me. Working out and eating healthy has left me feeling satisfied and upbeat. Anyone interested is heartily invited to join me for all or just part of the challenge. As you eat your fast food this week, keep me in mind.

More Family Pictures

First pic is my dad and I next to the biggest amethyst I have ever seen at the Fossil, Rock and Gem Show in Tuscan with some of his hippie friends that just so happen to be in AZ at the same time as my parents. Heaven forbid them get together in Peoria, IL! Next is my mom and I shopping at the show. And last, Grandma and I (my mom's mom) at our place and then Grandma playing Guitar Hero (she's so cool).

Giving Blood

I'm so proud of you Nathan. Nathan went and gave blood with me for the first time ever. I have been suggesting nicely that he go with me for a long time, but for one reason or another, he hadn't made it until this week. He even gave power red, which is when they take nearly double the amount and give your plasma back to you during the run. I'm not tall enough and don't weight enough to give power red, but they talked him into it. He did great!! No queasiness or fainting. This is one of my soap boxes, so beware! It takes so little time and effort to give a unit of blood every 56 days, that everyone should do it!! It is estimated that 60 percent of the population will need blood or blood components sometime during their lives. If you already give, GREAT! Bring a friend next time and right now United Blood Services is offering free movie tickets.

My Parents Visit

Well, the rush is over! My parents flew in from Peoria, IL last week and stayed at our place for a week. I love my family, but they can be overwhelming for me. My parents are hippies at heart, never plan anything yet want to do everything. They think I'm a little too uptight at times and all that can lead to tense situations. All that said, this was the BEST trip yet. In fact, I was sad to see them go home. This picture is us at the Renaissance Fair. Dad wasn't sure he wanted to go, but mom goaded him into it. Nathan took the picture, so of course missed out on being in it (typical).