Our Small-Town Idaho Life

BOOK PLACE MATS (homemade gift)

2012-01-30T20:50:00.000-07:00

We drew Andrew's brother's family for the Christmas gift exchange, and I wanted to do something homemade. I spend 24/7 thinking up ways to get kids to fall in love with books, so this gift seemed right up my alley.

I'd love to do this for my kids one day. While waiting for or eating their dinner, they are exposed to print in a fun, causal way. The little ones are learning to recognize new words and their minds are being conditioned to associate pleasure with books and reading. Early on, this can make a world of difference.

Ugh. Do I sound like a teacher or what?

But the amazing parents of our niece and nephews don't even need this lecture, so I'll stop now.

I took a trip to the local thrift store and returned home with an armload of old books.

I sought after those with bright, beautiful illustrations...

Or those easily-recognized classics most people have memories of and nostalgic feelings for.

Then for FHE, we cut pages out of books...which I might add, was not easy. It totally feels sacrilegious to desecrate a book. I don't care how old and torn and thrift store-y it is.

I am an elementary teacher, after all.

For this one, we took apart an alphabet book.

But I learned that my husband is a scrap booking fiend. We tag-teamed most of these, but Andrew could definitely hold his own.

Except I had severe doubts over the nursery rhyme he chose for his brother's (not pictured). Andrew rolled with laughter while I had to stress about causing offense. I had nothing to do with that decision, Jeff!

Who knew there were such dirty Mother Goose rhymes?

We arranged a front and back side for each person. At least then, Jeff had choices.

When I found this book in the thrift store, I snatched it off the shelf and actually did a Napoleon Dynamite-style, "yesss."

This was from a book that little Adelle asked me repeatedly to read to her while she was visiting us. So I found another one I could *wince* tear apart.

Then we dye cut their names, rounded the corners of the mats, laminated everything, and shipped 'em off.

It was a fun project that I hope they enjoy.

MESSY HOUSE(s)

2012-01-28T20:54:00.000-07:00

Keeping up with household chores as a woman with a full-time job, can be discouraging. How do just the two of us mature adults, who are hardly ever home, manage to make such messes?

But now...we have two houses to keep clean and orderly.

And one house is a lot worse than the other.

NYC PICTURE PURGE

2012-01-26T21:31:00.002-07:00

Random uncategorized NYC pics:

Flower shop.

Apartments that remind me of You've Got Mail.

High rise.

Charming.

Brooklyn Bridge.

Andrew checkin' the view.

Secret garden among the pavement and skyscrapers.

Central Park.

The Plaza.

Trinity Church.

1700's.

Becca on the ferry.

Lady liberty.

High altitude garden.

CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT

2012-01-24T18:49:00.002-07:00

I raved about my lovely new wreath on this blog over a year ago. Twice, I think--embarrassingly enough. But I bring it up again because of what I found tucked inside the storage box it spends most of the year in down in our cold storage room...

As Andrew and I were packing away Christmas decorations last January, he disappeared for a few minutes after I asked him to box up my lovely, new wreath. When he reappeared, I was ceremoniously presented with this contract requiring me to sign away (twice) any rights I had to anger and blame in the event of an accident.

Smart guy, right?

I completely forgot about it until I stumbled upon it while decorating for Christmas this year. I laughed and laughed and laughed. Although the contract never had to be produced or enforced (the wreath still being intact), it did earn Andrew a kiss for being so dang cute.

FROM CHOP SAWS to POPCORN

2012-01-20T00:28:00.000-07:00

1.) During the phase of trimming the house, I've learned to use...THE CHOP SAW.

(cue intense music)

I thought it was worth bragging about. It made me feel involved and important to cut the wood that now borders our doors and windows.

2.) I am purging our house of extra stuff. Room by room, closet by closet, I ruthlessly throw all sorts of things in the pile to donate or throw away.

I'm not even halfway through the house yet, and it already feels so good.

3.)One of my New Year's goals is to better learn the functions on my camera. I use everything except the full manual setting, because when I do, it turns out like that. Without fail.

Nonetheless, I am determined. I am resolute! I WILL enhance my skills because, hey...there's only room for improvement at this point, right?

4.) I am the new owner of a gym membership these past few months. I've always resisted paying someone for the privilege to exercise when I can simply jog around my block for free. But I've learned that bringing myself to run around the block...free or not... just doesn't happen.

My motivation is zilch.

But with so much money leaving my pocket each month, you can bet I'll be at that gym almost daily.

And it feels good to run, lift weights, and catch up on the home decorating shows I never see at home without cable TV.

When I get back, I like to reward myself with a special treat.

(No wisecracks, please.)

I justify this by using the tiny plastic bowls acquired from our last (and final) date night at KFC. (I swear, that place serves glorified frozen TV dinners. yuck.) The bowls are perfect though, because they hardly hold more than a small scoop.

It's all about portion control, people.

5.) I received an e-mail today from my uncle wishing a happy National Popcorn Day. I never knew such a joyful day existed.

And wouldn't you know, just by happy coincidence, my breakfast this morning consisted of a bowl of popcorn.

PAPER SNOWFLAKE KID's CRAFT

2012-01-16T17:42:00.000-07:00

After a whirlwind of holidays and vacations, I wasn't in the mood for a complicated January-themed classroom door. A few pages of dollar store window clings...and some snow decoration thingies that were left out for grabs in the work room...and I called it good.

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If I was just a tad less burned-out, I would have created something similar to this. (Does anyone else ever feel like they need a vacation to recover from their vacation?) Maybe next year.

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For a January craft, I was excited to finally try this out. I saw it a few year ago and liked the variation from the traditional snowflakes kids seem to make every year at school.

Some of my third graders opted to copy the original exactly.

And some got creative with colors and curls.

I recently got a GINORMOUS new TV in my classroom--which is exciting enough--but this TV also hooks up to my computer!! Those of us without Smart Boards or projectors get excited about simple things like this.

I just pulled up the blog where I originally found the craft, and scrolled through Simply Modern Mom's detailed picture tutorial. Explaining to the kiddos what they were about to do was a breeze, because it was very visual and clear. It was like magic.

And kids apparently pay closer attention to a screen then to their teacher. Having left it up while they worked, I had to answer far fewer questions than usual.

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I let my early finishers get started on other variations of her snowflakes.

Next, I hung the finished products inside the front office's display case--either directly onto the butcher paper, or hung with string from the top.

And then, because I felt the display should be somewhat educational, I googled a bunch of interesting facts about snowflakes, typed them up in a cutesy font, and pinned them up too.

(Did you know that the largest snowflake ever recorded fell in Montana at 15 inches in diameter?! That little fact blows my frickin' mind.)

And finally, my overachieving self went out and bought some of that white paper filler used in gift bags, and spread it along the bottom of the case to hopefully, further the look of snow.

Now, we Southeast Idahoans just need some real snow outside to go along with this cold. This winter has been strangely devoid of any significant snowfall. Who's ever heard of a brown Christmas in Rexburg?

HOUSE UPDATE {sheet rock and trim}

2012-01-14T13:21:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile, and an update is way overdue. Between our two-week holiday vacation, and Andrew putting his back out a week after that, things went slower than planned. But events are beginning to pick up again, almost faster than I can document!

About a month ago, the siding was up on the sides and the back of the house.

Now, it's being stuccoed in a "tent" of plastic and tarp to regulate the temperature with a heater. It's been as low as -1 degrees outside this week!

From the dining room window, you get a feel for what's going on inside that tent.

The kitchen a month ago: drywalled, taped, and mudded.

The kitchen weeks ago, with texturing on the walls.

Great room: drywalled, taped, and mudded

Great room: textured

Another view of great room/kitchen

Dining Area: dry-wall, taped, and mudded

Dining Area: walls textured and trim just begun
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Master Bedroom: dry wall with texturing

Master Bedroom: trim and wainscot begun

(loving the tray ceiling)

A Bedroom: walls textured

Guest Room: with trim

Front Sitting Room: drywalled, taped, and mudded

Front Sitting Room: with trim and wainscot begun (and wood flooring stacked ready to install!)

When the house is all trimmed out, we can paint the trim and the walls with the colors I chose. The outside stucco should be finished in a week, and I am SO EXCITED to share our plans for the dining room ceiling. Stay tuned!

MOVIE QUOTE MAGNETS (homemade gift tutorial)

2012-01-11T20:38:00.000-07:00

All families have their own favorite quotes and silly, you-had-to-be-there inside jokes. Upon joining my family, I'm sure Andrew was completely lost trying to follow some conversations. One of us would say something off-the-wall (that undoubtedly came from a favorite movie we had just been reminded of)...we'd all laugh hysterically...and then Andrew would sit there awkwardly wondering what the heck was so funny.

Anyway. I decided to take a few favorites and create a special birthday gift for my sis. Of course, you don't have to use movie quotes. Other ideas might include names, photos, clip art, boldly patterned scrapbook or wrapping paper, monograms, etc.
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But here's what I did.

First, I typed and printed off a bunch of quotes in varying fonts and colors. Second, I took a flat glass marble (found at any craft store), laid it over the chosen quote, and traced around it with a pencil. This ensured the paper fit the shape of the glass just right. Then I cut it out.

Next, I used mod podge to attach the paper to the underside of the glass marble, so the quote was visible through it. An extra protective coat was brushed over everything.

Then, I took magnets (also from the local craft store)...

...And hot glued one to the back of the flat glass marble.

That's it. It's ready to stick to the fridge.

The finished products were cute and personal...some serious, some ridiculous. Here are a few.

(How many of the movies can you identify? Answers are listed at the end of the post.)

The above quote is from a movie I can recite from memory we watched it so often as kids.

That scandalous quote at the top comes from a hilarious, family-friendly favorite. Becca's impersonation of this line is so spot-on I couldn't resist including it.

The one on the far right is an unexpected quip from a beloved magical character.

All three of these come from the same Shakespeare play (made into a movie with the likes of Denzel Washington, Kenneth Branagh, Emma Thomspon, Keanu Reaves, and Kate Beckinsale). We love this movie.

{SCROLL DOWN FOR ANSWERS}

"These mashed potatoes are so creamy."

While You Were Sleeping

"You had a child with the new maid?!"

Oscar

"Hey, ho the wind and the rain."

Twelfth Night, by William Shakepeare

"I do love knitting patterns."

Albus Dumbledore, from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

"Sweet, Beatrice!"

"Man is a Giddy Thing."

"Sigh no more..."

Much Ado About Nothing, by William Shakespeare

How'd you do? What's your score out of 5? Any favorite movie lines of your own? There are so many great ones, I've already thought of others I wish I'd used...

MUCHOS FOTOS DE VACACIONES

2012-01-07T21:56:00.000-07:00

The holidays were crazy and busy and wonderful. This is a summary of our vacation in a nutshell.

1.) Whirlwind of Elementary holiday festivities.

I was assigned to make the fire for the school program's set fireplace.

2.) Driving.

Left wintry Idaho, and drove 16 hours to Arizona. The land of T-shirts and flip-flops.

3.) Visiting little sisters.

Andrew/ Aurora and neighbor/ happy, little Belle

Duck, duck, goose.

Freestone Park.

feeding the ducks/ Aurora/ twins in their new shirts: Chillin' with my BFF

Andrew + Belle = In Belle's dreams

picnic lunch/ hide-and-go-seek/ playground

4.) Hangin' with Mom.

She and Andrew played one-on-one. Mom kicked his TRASH.

After Frisbee golf, Becca reminisced of childhood

Playing on Main Street statues

5.) Anniversary Trip to Zion's National Park

{source}

Desert Pearl Inn: modern and rustic.

Highly recommend.

wood floors/ mountain views/ private back patio overlooking pool

kitchenette allowed for homemade spaghetti dinner

Minutes from national park

Beautiful hikes and wildlife

6.) New Year's Celebration with Utah Ashmores

MIL planned fun dinner. Served everything directly on tablecloth for us to dig into.

Ate salad, spaghetti, or alfredo from the table.

Mostly, I loved little Laney staring at the food...at the adults digging in...and back at the food, with utter bewilderment.

7.) And then it was home again, home again, jiggity jig. To start up real life again. Phew!

PAINT COLOR DECISIONS

2012-01-05T22:36:00.000-07:00

If I were to sum up my thoughts on this whole choosing-paint-colors-for-the-new-house process, it would sound something similar to:

AaurrgggHhhhhh!

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After months of agonizing over paint chips and surfing Pinterest for inspiration, I selected my favorites and bought a ridiculous number of paint samples from the local Sherwin Williams Store.

I rushed to the house and enthusiastically slapped colors all over the walls in shadow, direct sunlight, and every other lighting scenario in between. When I stepped back to admire my carefully selected colors...I was thoroughly discouraged.

The grays were suddenly blue, everything was waaay darker than I expected, and we ruled out 90% of our choices on the spot. What a relief I learned this early with paint samples, rather than later with expensive walls I hated...but...it was now back to the drawing board.

Between the camera and different computer monitors, this picture does not accurately represent what we were looking at, but you get the general idea.

After further deliberation, research, and paint sample splashed walls, I think the final decisions have been made. Emphasis on think.

Sherwin Williams -- North Star

I really wanted a pale blue-gray for the kitchen and/or bathrooms that didn't look like a baby boy's bedroom. Eventually, I found that any color appearing remotely blue on the chip--or even in the can--was way too blue on the wall.

When I bought a sample of North Star, I actually questioned the attendant, because it looked sooo gray. (Do you see any blue in there at all?) But once on the wall, it was perfect. Just the right amount of blue to be pretty...without being juvenile.

Source: google.com via J on Pinterest

This on-line example might help you visualize it.

SW -- Pussy Willow

This color will probably go in the bedrooms.The new trend for wall colors seems to be leaning toward grays rather than beiges. I think gray is a lovely neutral.

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Pussy willow example

SW -- Dovetail

This dark gray-brown will go in the entry way accompanied by a white wainscoting, four feet high.

Source: greigedesign.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Dovetail example #1

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Dovetail example #2. This picture makes it look slightly lighter than the samples looked on my walls. But I like this cute room.

SW -- Repose Gray

A light gray was the hardest color to pin down. Why did my choices always look bluish? After extensive research, I found this helpful explanation...

Basically, grays have three undertones: blue, green, and purple. It is often hard to identify the undertone without first comparing it to other gray samples. Once on the wall, gray paint with blue or purple undertones, suddenly look blue or purply, rather than gray. If you want it to really look gray, you have to find one with a slight green undertone.

So that's what I did. And I loved it as soon as my paint brush touched the wall.

Source: decorpad.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Repose Gray. Looks gray rather than green, doesn't it?

Anyway. There you have it. If you don't like these colors...do me a favor and don't tell me. I am so sick of rehashing the same colors over and over...and I need my brain to move on to the next big decision:

tile and counter tops.

FIRST COMES LOVE

2012-01-03T18:51:00.001-07:00

That is one of my favorite Christmas card outtakes. I thought it fit the occasion; we have been married for five happy years! Andrew is my perfect fit.

It is gratifying to have a best friend who can finish my sentences, read my thoughts from facial expressions, and love me even on my ugliest and witchiest of days. He seems to hold the perfect balance between accepting me for me and...patiently giving correction when I'm an irrational twit. That happens every now and again.

He's unfailingly kind. For example, there was the time he pretended to enjoy the pumpkin pie I served (his favorite) until I took a bite and realized...it was completely devoid of sugar. It tasted like poo. (Who does that? Isn't sugar like the most important ingredient of any pie?)

Yesterday, we had an exchange that perfectly illustrates us:
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After Andrew spent ten plus minutes listening to me stress before making a silly decision at the store, I said to him:
"Thanks for being patient with me and my insanity."
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To which he very sweetly took my hand and responded:
"You're welcome, babe."
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He's lucky I laughed.

Actually, that's another reason Andrew's so perfect for me. He makes this uptight, much-too-serious gal laugh out loud on a daily basis. He is my happy thought.

That doesn't mean he's perfect, though. If I get an elbow to the eye as he rolls over in bed one more time, Andrew is going to EAT my pillow. Mark my words.

Otherwise, I look forward to an eternity of happy wedding anniversaries.

CHRISTMAS CARD 2011

2011-12-22T12:16:00.000-07:00

When I printed these off at Wal-Mart, the photo attendant flipped through the pictures...paused...and stared quizzically before asking:

"Do you guys live in a a garage?"

Umm...no.

For anyone who is confused by our Christmas picture, we do not in fact, live in a garage. We took a few pieces of furniture from our current rental home (that is heated, carpeted, and comfortable, I might add) and moved them briefly to our new house (that is currently being built) for the shoot. It is supposed to be funny.

Please tell me you guys get it.

My favorite part of the photoshoot was at the very end. While packing up my tri-pod, Andrew's business partner unexpectedly showed up to find Andrew...chillin' in a bathrobe...at a construction site. Ha!

"So...you guys movin' in already?"

Anyway, happy holidays, folks. See you after Christmas!.

Love,
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Andrew and Rachel

BE-YOU-TIFUL

2011-12-20T23:38:00.000-07:00

At church, I work with the teenage girls. For Christmas, the adult leaders made these signs for the girls as gifts.

I volunteered to get the wood. Andrew and I happen to have a lot of it hanging around these days. We cut scrap wood and routered the edges to look pretty.

Understand that I use the term "we" loosely. I have a great fear of tools with the ability to permanently remove appendages from my body.

Then, I distressed the edges with sandpaper.

Next, the leaders all met to modge podge the letters on. The YW President had cut them out using her Cricut.
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(in case you're interested, she used the fonts Rage Italic for the cursive letters and Andalus for the rest.)

I love the emphasis on the fact that being uniquely you is what makes you beautiful...not by how you compare to others. I don't think young woman hear that enough.

Each sign was made using different colors and designs...as if to further illustrate this point.

Then I took tags with this quote...

(also made by our super creative YW President)

And tied them to each sign with ribbon.

All ready to go!

I think the girls really liked picking out their own. I thought I'd pass this idea along to others in the Young Women organization for Christmas or birthday gift ideas...or just anyone with a young lady in their life.

Our inspiration came from here. I'm sure you can find similar ones all over the Internet for ideas.

NINETEEN EIGHTY-SOMETHING

2011-12-16T00:32:00.000-07:00

Above, is my husband--as an itty-bitty, wittle cutie guy.
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{Go ahead and say it...all together now: aww!}
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I keep this photo on my fridge year-round, no joke. It makes my heart happy: the dimples, the pj's, the little clasped hands...

And it kindles the expectation of one day, having the cutest dang kids in existence. Just look at that beaming, miniature of Andrew!

ODE TO THE DOUGHNUT

2011-12-11T22:59:00.000-07:00

Doughnut, oh, Doughnut
You're wonderful stuff
I love you, oh, Doughnut
I can't get enough.

You start out as dough
Then you're deep fried in grease
at this point, my yearning
will only increase.
you're covered with frosting
and sprinkles galore
you're sugar encrusted
I must have some more!

Doughnut, oh, Doughnut
there on my plate
you ease all my sorrows
I think I'll eat eight.
Hang on a minute,
What's that you say?
my dear friend, the pastry
will only betray?

Doughnut, oh, Doughnut
you've broken my heart
I thought you would love me
'til death do us part
Alas, you have tricked me,
the results appear grim
Never mind, doughnut...
I'm going to the gym.

--Rachel Ashmore

The result of Andrew leaving town for a week?

Rachel spends her evenings writing love poems to fried, ring-shaped sweets. And speaking in the the third person.

Thank goodness he'll be back tonight.

"SYNONYM" ROLLS

2011-12-09T19:35:00.000-07:00

We discussed synonyms in class. Using an idea I found HERE, I introduced the idea of "synonym rolls." I drew outlines of cinnamon rolls freehand with a marker, copied enough for everyone, and the kids listed as many synonyms for assigned words as they could throughout the spirals.

The finished products were turned in to cookie sheets for "baking."

Lots of comments on this fun, easy bulletin.

IT IS BETTER TO LOOK UP

2011-12-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

"At the end of a particularly tiring day toward the end of my first week as a General Authority, my briefcase was overloaded and my mind was preoccupied with the question “How can I possibly do this?” I left the office of the Seventy and entered the elevator of the Church Administration Building. As the elevator descended, my head was down and I stared blankly at the floor.

The door opened and someone entered, but I didn’t look up. As the door closed, I heard someone ask, “What are you looking at down there?” I recognized that voice—it was President Thomas S. Monson.

I quickly looked up and responded, “Oh, nothing.” (I’m sure that clever response inspired confidence in my abilities!)

But he had seen my subdued countenance and my heavy briefcase. He smiled and lovingly suggested, while pointing heavenward, “It is better to look up!” As we traveled down one more level, he cheerfully explained that he was on his way to the temple. When he bid me farewell, his parting glance spoke again to my heart, “Now, remember, it is better to look up.”

As we parted, the words of a scripture came to mind: “Believe in God; believe that he is … ; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth.” As I thought of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ’s power, my heart found the comfort I had sought in vain from the floor of that descending elevator..."

--Carl B. Cook

A woman from church dropped by last week with THIS printed talk and a helium balloon (you have to read the whole talk to entirely understand the balloon idea ).

She is not my visiting teacher and I never considered us especially close friends...but she was there, I am convinced, as an answer to prayer. My heart needed the message, and it provided strength to do hard things.

My favorite passage:

"President Monson’s encouragement to look up is a metaphor for remembering Christ. As we remember Him and trust in His power, we receive strength through His Atonement. It is the means whereby we can be relieved of our anxieties, our burdens, and our suffering. It is the means whereby we can receive the faith and strength to endure all things."

And I love my happy, yellow balloon. :) Isn't that a cute idea?

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

2011-12-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

MVI_2071 a video by hibbard_ashmore430 on Flickr.

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I went to our house (the one we're building) last week to take pictures of the progress. Andrew was nowhere to be seen...but I could hear a hammer pounding and music floating up from the crawl space underneath my feet.

Maybe I'm the only one who finds this heartwarming, but I wanted to capture what I found below: my husband all by himself, busy doing something manly with tools, with bright and happy Christmas music blaring on the radio.

I just love that guy.

P.S. Click on the movie to make it bigger.

READ-ALOUD BULLETIN BOARDS

2011-12-02T20:10:00.000-07:00

Our read-aloud book last month was "Frindle" by Andrew Clements. It is such a fun read, and I love that it goes over definitions and dictionaries. We spend so much time on dictionary skills in 3rd grade that it fits perfectly with the curriculum.

This focus bulletin was easy: colored print-out of the book cover, an enlarged dictionary definition for the word frindle, and a giant butcher paper pen...er...I mean, frindle. I tried to give the cap dimension with white chalk highlights and by curling the paper slightly to look round.

In October, our read-aloud book was the hilarious, adorable "Bunnicula" by Deborah and James Howe. I wanted to help my kiddos keep the characters straight, so I made this bulletin. I added white vegetables and my favorite quote from the story for good measure.

Any of you teachers have favorite read-alouds to recommend? Do share!

OLD, VINTAGE-Y WINDOWS

2011-11-30T21:26:00.000-07:00

Andrew grabbed a few old windows for me from THIS house he is remodeling. I begged him to with all energy of heart. I couldn't stand to see them go in the trash.

And I had a vision.

Check out the inspiration I've found for using such windows...

Source: 1.bp.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Put fabric or scrapbook paper behind the glass...

Source: thediyshowoff.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Use it as a dry-erase board...

Source: poodlepoddles.blogspot.com via Lori on Pinterest

Spray chalkboard paint right over the glass...

Source: thrifttown.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Use them as picture frames for small pictures...

Source: weddings.theknot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Connect several together with hinges and display on a table, dresser, or mantel...

Source: 3meadowlakecottage.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Replace the glass with a mirror...

Source: 2.bp.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Hang on the wall with a wreath...

Source: robomargo.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Build a flower box to hang under the window and fill with faux plants.

Source: theoldpaintedcottage.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Display over the fireplace as a mirror...

Source: ouradventuresinhomeimprovement.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Place on a shelf with a wreath and other decor...

Source: recyclart.org via Rachel on Pinterest

Build shutters to display on either side...

Source: hammersandhighheels.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Use as a picture frame for a large picture...

Source: amy-showalter.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Hang a mossy monogram in front...

Source: bhg.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Hang stars in front...

Source: Uploaded by user via Rachel on Pinterest

Use to frame smaller pictures...

Source: iheartnaptime.net via Rachel on Pinterest

Use as a coat rack (love the bunting too!)...

Source: Uploaded by user via Rachel on Pinterest

Build a coffee table...

Source: bhg.com via Rachel on Pinterest

And hang two and use as a headboard.

Phew...lots of ideas! I can't wait to move in to our new house and put some of these great ideas in to action. I'll be sure to show you the finished products!

OLD, VINTAGE DOOR

2011-11-28T20:40:00.000-07:00

Andrew's been working to remodel this old house. As a result, I have been the lucky recipient of some of the old things being torn out and thrown away.
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First, Andrew brought me home this door.

I was excited because, I bought this random thrifty item a long time ago, and wanted something to do with the old, vintage door knob. It fits perfectly on the door and will give it an even cooler old-fashioned look.
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As for what to do with the door...I have a few ideas:

I can replace the glass with a mirror and add hooks...

Source: howdoesshe.com via Rachel on Pinterest

I can spray paint it a fun, bright color and sand it down a bit for display...

Source: aimee-weaver.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

I'd like Andrew to add wooden strips to make panes. Do you think it's too weird to just lean up against a wall in the front room?

Source: prettypetals.typepad.com via Rachel on Pinterest

It might look cool as the front on a bookcase or cabinet...

Source: bystephanielynn.com via Rachel on Pinterest

We could build a hall tree out of it for the front entryway...

Source: howdoesshe.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Or it could decoration over/behind a desk. Anything is prettier with a wreath hanging on the front, don't you think?

You'll have to tell me what you think. I've even seen people hang them sideways over beds or couches. Hhmmm.

HOUSE UPDATE--wood floors and doors

2011-11-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

I think it's about time for an update. A lot has happened, but pictures don't show the progress of plumbing and electrical so well. The inside and outside is going to change so drastically in just a few days time, I thought I'd hurry and document up to his point.

This is what the house looked like about a month ago...right after our crazy October snowstorm.

Exterior doors are installed. I love the vertical lines in the panels. They look so country.

Are you as in love with my backdoor view as I am?

Tubs are in. This is our master's JETTED TUB.

We will be living the high life, folks.

It was especially exciting to pick out and order our hard wood flooring. We got an amazing deal. Can you guess what kind of wood it is?

Did anybody guess "bamboo"? It is supposed to be extremely durable. This scan of our sample doesn't even do the color justice. This beautiful stuff will be in the entryway, great room, kitchen, and all of the hallways.

I am so over having traffic paths worn into my hall carpet.

This was our front door when it first arrived.

This is after Andrew taped the windows and applied stain.

Ready to install...except for a little decorative piece that we paid for and didn't come until Andrew made a phone call and set the record straight.

{source}

This is what our door will look like with the decorative piece below the windows.

And here is the house with a front door! I can't believe this picture is already out of date. Things are going to happen fast from here on out!

CODE

2011-11-23T19:09:00.000-07:00

As usual, I was running around my classroom like a crazy person, trying to multi-task an insane number of tasks at once--straightening, copying, grading, sharpening pencils, arranging bulletin board displays, filing, answering questions, keeping an eye on the clock, monitoring students, planning, e-mailing, and applying band-aids...when I hit a roadblock trying to enter a grade into the computer.

Ha. Ha. Ha. Very amusing. Like I have a spare second to sit and figure out whose paper this belongs to!

Though to be quite honest, without doing any sort of number figuring, I knew EXACTLY who it belonged to:

That gal whose "creativity" will soon be the cause of my first gray hair.

*smile*

OUT MY KITCHEN WINDOW

2011-11-21T20:51:00.001-07:00

Zoom lenses are fun...So's playing with textures.

For some reason, this photo makes me feel all winter-y. Hope you're staying warmer than we are here in this corner of Idaho. I am officially done with the wind whipping through our valley lately. Brrrr...

And it's only November.

AUTUMNISH CLASSROOM DOOR

2011-11-15T21:41:00.001-07:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Rachel on Pinterest

A friend pointed this classroom decor idea out to me on Pinterest, and I thought I'd give it a try. It looked simple enough.

After putting it together, I was thinking it didn't look exactly like my inspiration, but it was still cute.

That is...until the students walked in the door that first morning. Their reactions deflated any improper pride I had over my creation.

"...Creepy..."

"Whoa. What is THAT?"

"Is it a pilgrim?"

"No, it's a pioneer!"

"It's a CAT!"

We had an unplanned mini lesson on scarecrows, and I think we're now all squared away as to what the heck our door is supposed to be.

A CAT???

Hmph.

NYC MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

2011-11-11T16:21:00.000-07:00

Very crowded, very loud, very big museum filled with dead animals and other stuff. It's free with a "suggested" donation of $20. I think it was worth seeing.

Here's the short version:

Tyrannosaurus Rex

More dinosaur bones

Brontosaurus
And Andrew. Looking exceptionally dashing.

Woolly Mammoth

Andrew's picture he wanted with the big moose.

Very large pterodactyl hanging from the ceiling

Very large sea turtle hanging from the ceiling

realistic, exotic animal display

realistic, non-exotic animal display

And really big, dead moose that look alive

There is Andrew looking innocent and...way too happy. And there is Mom reacting to whatever Andrew just did or said to tease her.

The End.

CONSTRUCTION PAPER WREATH TUTORIAL

2011-11-08T21:08:00.003-07:00

I was shocked to see my blogger stats the last few days skyrocket with over 1,100 hits to THIS post alone (about paper wreaths of all things). I figured that if that many people are interested in such a thing, I might as well provide guidance on how to make them. Maybe it will help to ease the stream of e-mailed inquiries I've been getting.

You need:

1.) one 9''x18'' sheet of green construction paper

2.) scrap paper of any color you'd like for bows, berries, etc.

First, take the green paper and fold it in half...

...hot-dog style, like this.

Draw a line along the length that is open...NOT the side where the crease is...about 1-2 inches away from the edge. This marks your "NO CUTTING ZONE" for later.

Then, draw tic marks every half-inch along the top and the bottom. You can make these marks one-inch apart for younger kids, but the narrower they are, the "lacier" your wreath will turn out in the end.

I always tie this project in with the math lesson we have each December on measuring to the nearest half-inch.

Next, connect those tic marks with your ruler to make straight cutting lines. Notice my lines stop at the first line we drew earlier.

Then, cut along each line you drew, being careful not to go too far!

It will look like this when you've finished cutting.

Now, open it up...

...And roll it in the opposite direction that the crease was folded to make a tube-like shape. It helps to have a second pair of hands for this step.

I have the student hold one end together while I put staples in other side every couple of inches...as far in as my stapler will reach. Then we trade sides and I staple the other end the same way.

I've found it just works better to have adults do the stapling part. Kids will only bunch it up, rip the "rings," and get frustrated. I always have a few teacher's aids on hand for this project.

I've also found that creasing the section that isn't cut, on either side a little bit helps to shape it for the next step.

Now, join both ends of the "tube" you just made to create the wreath shape...

...and staple the ends together. At this point, you may need to finagle the stapler in through the "rings" to fix any bulges in the middle. After this, it should look like a wreath.

While students are waiting for an adult to help them with the stapler, they work on cutting out bows and berries. I've even had creative kids add pine cones and squirrels. I let the kids draw their own embellishments free-hand too allow for some individuality. If it's easier for you, copy off some clip-art bows for them to cut and paste instead.

Hang the final product in a window, on a door, or make a garland of them across the classroom ceiling.

Let me know if you have further questions. Become a follower to stay updated on future kids' crafts, activities, and other classroom helps. Enjoy your holidays!

HALLOWEENIE

2011-11-02T20:23:00.000-06:00

My husband is rather smolder-y as a school robes sportin', adolescent wizard.

His wand is a chopstick with Japanese characters. It chose him.

I dressed up to go along with my classroom's bumblebee theme: yellow duct tape, black ruffle stripes, white pantyhose wings, and bumblebee themed nails. The tutu is only the second project made with my new sewing machine. I got the ruffles idea from here.

I thought I was being so unique until one of my students and all four teachers in the Special Ed department showed up as bees too. Oh well.

MY CRAZY WEEK

2011-10-21T17:49:00.000-06:00

I woke up this morning at NOON. When I finally rolled over and looked at the clock, I was shocked. I had to go check the other clocks in the house to make sure. I guess my body needed it:

1.) Parent Teacher Conferences.
They require hours of preparation between the grading, progress reports, projects in class to finish and display, IRI graphs to print, thoughts to organize, classroom to clean, and appointments to arrange. And then there are the late nights actually conducting the interviews. And then there is usually that one parent who is angry at you for suggesting their child has any room for improvement or could have possibly ever broken a school rule. sigh.

But other than that, I really, truly, enjoy parent teacher conferences. I always leave with a clearer understand of why my kiddos are the way they are. Also, seeing how much the parents love their kids, for some reason, makes me love the squirts even more than ever.

2.) Sick.
Our house has had bad luck in the health department. Last week, Andrew came home miserable with the stomach flu. Luckily, with some distance and a bottle of Pepto, I was able to escape with only a day of mild nausea. But this week, I came home with a burning throat and a sinus headache. Teaching twenty-four, active eight-year olds while sick is never fun.

3.) New Calling.
I learned to love my sunbeam calling much faster than expected. My bad attitude at the beginning only shames me now. And, as usual, the moment I get comfortable, I am issued a new call.

Laurel Advisor.

Relief Society presidency didn't terrify me near as much...and I was shakin' in my high heels back then, let me tell you. A few bad experiences must have traumatized me forever, because I have been out of high school for nearly ten years now, yet adolescent girls still make my palms sweat. It's as if I revert back to awkward teenager the moment I'm around them (though if we're being honest here, when have I NOT been socially awkward?). At mutual, I'm suddenly very conscious of my lack of witty things to say. Is my face turning red when I speak? And where am supposed to rest my hands while I hold a conversation?

The above quote has been helping me keep the proper perspective. This isn't about me. It's about those sixteen and seventeen year-old girls. Serve accordingly, Rachel.

4.) The House.
Andrew's gone until 9 or 10 every night working to finish it by the new year. Although we knew it would be like this, and we agreed the sacrifice was worth making to build this house...it totally sucks.
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I spend a lot of time digitally painting houses online these days. After angst-filled deliberation, I think the exterior house colors have been selected. Almost. I think.

On the Bright Side.
*I have the very best class this year. I just love them. Last year was so hard...and this year has been a breath of fresh air.

*Andrew is so wonderful. I was so miserably sick last night, and Andrew got a bath ready for me, brought me food, and rubbed my aching head until I fell asleep. I am spoiled rotten.

*After two late nights of parent-teacher conferences, teachers have Friday off. I love today.

*My Laurels are so good-hearted, talented, and well-versed in the Gospel. I don't know why I'm worried.

*We are totally building our own house. And that is freakin' awesome.

MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

2011-10-13T20:03:00.000-06:00

Yes, I am still talking about our NYC trip. I probably will be for another year...that's how many pictures I took.

Having an art degree, this place was kind of a big deal for me. Like, I was in heaven. It was fun to see all the original paintings I had only ever seen in textbooks.

The building itself was a piece of art. The design was so fun and open.

I like the movement and action captured just by repeating the image one more time.

Look familiar to anyone? Andy Warhol's Pop Art of Cambell's soup cans, Mickey Mouse, and other famous popular culture icons are really well known.

This is a really famous painting.

But mostly, it just gave me a strange urge to find my tweezers.

This painting was certainly itty-bitty for being so famous.

I was excited to find this, because I always plan a mini unit about real vs fantasy centered around Marc Chagall's paintings. It's so much fun to hear my third graders holding in-depth analytical discussions about his work.

There were more Picassos than I can list.

Andrew wasn't impressed with this famous painting. Neither was I, actually.

I've always been a fan of Kandinsky. His paintings are happy.

Kinda cool, I guess.

There were several of Seurat's pointillist paintings. They don't do much for me.

Am I the only one to get goosebumps from looking at a painting?

Don't answer that.

I didn't realize this was so big.

Cezanne is probably my favorite artist...because of the colors, and free, expressive strokes, and defined outlines. I wish they had more there at MoMA.

And there were a nice collection of Van Goghs...

Such as this grand finale of the day. I know that it's a super trendy, over circulated, commercialized painting...but it really is incredible art. It's so much better in person.

BLOW MY MIND

2011-10-06T20:28:00.000-06:00

{source}

*Andrew and I played a game of pool this week. And just so you are aware, I won. Fair and square. I thought this was news worth shouting from the rooftops.

{source}

*You'll never guess the fabulous way in which I am spending my harvest break...

Attending a state-mandated math class for teachers...EIGHT hours a day...Monday through Friday!!!

You're jealous, right?

I was determined to be reeally grumpy over being robbed of my vacation time, until this math class had the nerve to be...fun.

I can't believe I just said that.

Basically, I've learned the following:

1.) Despite being an expert teacher of algorithms, I know nothing.

2.) I was taught to follow procedures rather than to think for myself.

3.) I have been teaching my students to follow procedures rather than to think for themselves.

4.) When I actually use my brain, I'm not so bad at math after all.

My mind is officially blown.

But all this math is taking it's toll on me. Let me illustrate:

If xy = z, and x = number of hours in class and y = number of days in class, then z = 40 hours of thinking mathematically.

z also equals:

My brain literally aching like an overworked muscle at the end of each day...And my mind continuing to work the problems from class in my dreams all night long...And a very tired Rachel upon waking each morning...And a 3rd grade teacher who is SO EXCITED to teach her next math lesson!

*It is October 6th, today.

October SIXTH, people!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yet, here I was, taking pictures from our bedroom window this evening.

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

2011-10-04T22:53:00.000-06:00

In the mail today, we received a coupon booklet. I immediately ripped this page out for future use at our favorite date night location. We love ourselves some good Costa Vida.
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But then...something else caught my eye.

Seriously? Is that not the most unfortunate of acronyms...even without purposely splashing it around in bold, fancy font?

Especially for such a manly store.

It's almost as bad as the EVCO House of Hose building we always pass with a snicker. (Yes, we're mature like that.) Who knew garden hose could be so dirty?

But it doesn't come close to the company name I can't even bring myself to type it is so horribly X-Rated in this context.

Just protecting the innocent, you see. I shouldn't have even brought it up in the first place.

I HAD A DREAM

2011-09-30T17:54:00.000-06:00

It officially feels like autumn in our neck of the woods. I run the heater in my car in the mornings and the a/c in the afternoons, leaves are are turning gold, and I keep passing trucks of freshly harvested potatoes on the highway.

These are also harbingers of college football, Andrew's sacred hunting season, and the school district's week-long week off for spud harvest. I love spuds. If southeast Idaho was given a week off of school for harvesting bowling balls, I'd love those too.

So anyway, I had a dream the other night that was truly horrifying.

Andrew was trying to kill me. With a knife. I had to protect myself curled up beneath a couch cushion.

What spurred this, I have no clue. You Freudians out there might argue that it was an expression of repressed feelings of anger or hostility toward my man. Or that I feel I am being controlled or victimized by him in real life.

Whatever. Anyone who knows Andrew Ashmore wouldn't believe it for a second. Just look at that face!

Then I had to wake up and act normal around him. Ha. It's amazing how real dreams can feel sometimes. Like the time I dreamed he drove our car into the river, and then I spent the next morning angrily lecturing him on the evils of reckless driving. Poor guy.

On top of everything, this haunting images happened on the eve of his 27th birthday. Then I woke up and was all whimpery over what possessed him to attempt slashing me to pieces! I thought he loved me!

My poor husband can't catch a break.

I guess that's my whole story. Andrew hates me and wants me dead. Have any of you had dreams so realistic they affected your emotions the next day?

BEE-THEMED CLASSROOM {freebies!}

2011-09-25T18:39:00.000-06:00

This year, I wanted to have a bit of a theme for my third graders. I didn't want to give up my September sunflower door, so I thought adding bees to the mix would mesh nicely.

You may recognize the hanging beehive I made from THIS post.

The kids made their own sunflowers and wrote things that make them happy on the leaves. THIS little gal wrote: "my hores make me happy," until I made her fix the spelling.

This is the display that greeted my new students by the door...each of their names written on a cartoon bee.

FUN FACT: This phrase comes from the fact that bees actually have little sacs behind their knee to store pollen. That's where the good stuff is.

In the classroom, I added a bee themed sign above the birthday cupcakes.

And labeled the class jobs chart: Hive Helpers.

Here is where the "bee" happy bunting hangs above my desk. I made flags with scrapbook paper, color printed text, and an Internet found clip-art bee. Then, I strung ribbon through punched holes in the top corners.
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Easy peasy.

And I revamped my writing center area with bee-patterned cloth, a sunflower border, and my favorite part: beehives for each phase in the writing process. Each child has a bee clothespin with their name on it that they move according to where they are on their project.

I'll post more on this later with free downloads for my teacher followers who are interested.

I also made several variations of slips I can randomly place on desks looking especially neat and organized...a behavior I definitely want to encourage! Maybe I'll include a little treat too.

(Drones are male honeybees that forage for pollen.)

Here is a similar one I made for a simple, quiet recognition of those especially kind acts I see around the classroom.

Desk Drone certificates for Bee-themed Classroom

You're welcome to a download if you could use them too. Just print and cut into strips.

Caught Being Nice

Print, cut, and enjoy.

HOUSE UPDATE {bunches of beginnings}

2011-09-22T18:15:00.000-06:00

Hi, friends!

Here is a picture I took of the house last week. It's all wrapped and prepped for stucco.

The sidewalks and driveway are prepped for concrete.

The garage is poured and pretty.

The living room fireplace is framed.

The beginnings of plumbing have cropped up...

As well as electrical...

...And heating and ventilation.

It was especially exciting to find a stack of newly delivered windows learning against the garage one day.

The windows have since been installed. Do you like my kitchen skylights?

This is the most updated picture of the exterior so far. I'm loving the look of the windows!

Next up: Concrete will soon be poured for sidewalks, the driveway, and the porch cap. And as soon as we get the front door installed, it will be STUCCO and STONE TIME!!

KITCHENS

2011-09-20T20:44:00.000-06:00

Source: rehkamplarson.com via Rachel on Pinterest

I've had kitchens on the brain lately: cabinets, counters, wall colors, back splashes, light fixtures, and appliances. After hours of research and deliberation, I think I've got our new kitchen pretty much figured out:

*White cabinets and dark wood floors...no question.
*Oil-rubbed bronze fixtures...to pop against the white cabinetry.
*Dark, dark concrete counters...because they're cheap. And cheap is good. Except for the island, that is. The island will have a butcher block top.
*Stainless steel appliances...because they're pretty, and apparently, I'm a glutton for punishment.

{I once worked as a maid and am no stranger to the elbow grease required to clean stainless steel.}
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*And pale, pale blue-grey tile backslash...because Andrew is being difficult.

Source: rehkamplarson.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Here's another semi-close version of my vision.

Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

This would be my first choice. I am in LOVE with this kitchen...the white back-splash with a dark green-grey paint behind it. *sigh*

Unfortunately, Andrew HATES white back-splashes. I never would have expected him to care so much about tile...but he does. "It looks like a grandma's kitchen." He won't budge on this point.

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He's just lucky he has dimples. That's all I have to say about that.

Source: nestegg.typepad.com via Rachel on Pinterest

But light blue is okay too...as long it isn't baby boy nursery blue. It has to have a lot of light grey in it.

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Is this back splash not the coolest? Its coolness level probably puts it out of our price range, but I can dream anyway.

So...any thoughts? Does this color scheme work? And the BIG question: Is the blue neutral enough for resale in a couple years?
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Also: Lots of updated pictures of the new house to share! I'll post soon.

MISS GRUMPY PANTS SAYS SORRY

2011-09-13T18:55:00.000-06:00

Source: jimaiemarie.tumblr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

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SOOOO...I was just reading over a post I wrote this weekend about my pet peeves.
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Afterward, I was, like:
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YIKES.

I sound like a really. angry. person.

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I had Andrew read it and give me his opinion. He said he didn't like it and it didn't sound anything like me. "Usually, your posts are all upbeat and laughy."
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(That was a direct quote.)

Well, I'm glad he doesn't think it sounds like me, because I sure don't think I'm a total downer all the time.

Looking back, It must have had something to do with the fact that: I wrote the post while I was miserably sick with a high temperature, irritated that it was keeping me from my long to-do list, home alone all day, and really, really grumpy.
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And I guess that leaked out in my writing.

So anyway, if you read that post with all my most negative, loathsome thoughts smeared around in a whiny hissy fit, I hope you won't hold it against me.
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I promise to try and keep my future posts as upbeat and laughy as possible.

Most sincerely,
Rachel

AT GROUND ZERO

2011-09-11T19:13:00.000-06:00

This sculpture sat just outside the World Trade Center before the attacks. What was salvaged was put on display here in Battery Park. It was sobering to see the painfully obvious damage inflicted to metal. Gashes, dents, and gaping holes covered the whole thing.

The afternoon lighting makes it difficult to see, but just in front of Andrew, an eternal flame burns from the cement circle in the ground.

Later that afternoon, we arrived at Ground Zero. This is the fire station literally across the street.

I'm bummed this picture is blurry, but here we are at a memorial stretching along one side of the building.

I can't even describe my feelings upon seeing the actual spot this occurred. It made it too easy to visualize the devastation an attack like this would have on the surrounding city blocks and the hundreds and hundreds of people on the streets, in the subway, and in the buildings. It must have been truly horrifying...as we know it was.

Standing there, the reality of it hit me like never before, and I was reliving newsflashes of hordes of people running for their lives through the streets of Manhattan. I spent the next hour with a lump in my throat.

It was here, that we met this gentleman. Yes, he may have been a little eccentric, but I was very grateful we did.

After learning these tourists were from Europe, he proceeded to pull out a tattered binder full of pictures that he used as visuals to eloquently and movingly recount the entire story of the attack...all from the perspective of a New Yorker.

He directed his speech at the young boy in the blue hat there, because he especially wanted him to understand the significance of what had happened that day.

After describing in great detail, the New Yorkers' reactions to the initial plane, how the falling towers destroyed surrounding skyscrapers, and the chaos that ensued as the people tried to escape, I started thinking that this was powerful stuff and I should be recording it!

Sadly, this is the tiny bit that I was able to capture near the end. He went on to describe the future of Ground Zero after I stopped recording.

That skyscraper in the middle will be known as One World Trade Center. I believe it is only a little over half-way built up at this point. It is going to be HUGE.

{source}

To be finished in 2015, it will be tagged as the tallest building in America at 1,776 feet.

{source}

As for the actual two sites of the towers, memorials were unveiled today that sit within the footprints left behind by the buildings. We were sad to have missed it by only a month. When we were there in August, it was all surrounded by fencing.

The twin reflecting pools are about an acre big with the largest man made falls in the country (30ft) cascading down their perimeters. Names of all those who lost their lives that day are inscribed along the edges.

{source}

This picture lets you see both pools from above and the crowds gathered for the ceremony today.

Each year, I teach my class a little bit about what happened that day. Of course, I don't want to traumatize the kiddos, but I think they need to understand the basics and what an impact it had on our country. I'm surprised each time, how little they actually know.

It's hard to believe my third graders weren't even alive when September 11th happened! Crazy. And it was one of the most memorable days of my entire life...

PET PEEVES

2011-09-11T09:15:00.002-06:00

My list:
1.) Talking/laughing during a concert, movie, play, performance, speech, Sunday school lesson, etc. Others are trying to listen! Are you not aware that it is distracting and rude? Did your mother not teach you this when you were, like five? It drives me absolutely crazy.

2.) Bad Parenting: Now, I don't go around critiquing everyone's parenting skills. Heck, it's not like I've had a whole lot of experience yet. But there is one thing that always makes me cringe.
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For instance, we've all seen that child at the grocery store who asks their parents for something, are told no, and then proceed to throw a tantrum. But isn't it common sense, that a parent giving in at this point, is training the child to throw a tantrum every time they want something?

If I scream loud enough, mom'll give me anything I want. That's what they are conditioned to think.

However, I see parents give in just because they want the screaming to stop. LAME. Then I get them in my third grade class, and have to deal with these whiny outbursts myself. That is, until they learn it will get them NOWHERE with me.

3.) Poor Grammar. I realize that I am not perfect. I hate catching myself screw up "your" and "you're" or "they're", "their", and "there." But there are a few grammar rules my mom drilled so thoroughly into my head that there is no escaping my battiness when people mess them up:
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You may be good at golf, but you play golf very well.
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You are NOT, "doing good," you are, "doing well."

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You don't, "got to," you, "have to."
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You don't, "got something," you, "have something."

You are not "done." The bread is "done." You are "finished."

When you answer the phone:

It's not: "This is her." It is: "This is she."

And as I often hear in Idaho:

"I says to my brother..." should be, "I said to my brother..."

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And it's not "we was," it's "we were."

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4.) Gossip. "...I love her to pieces, but..." "...She's super nice, but..." What a guilty pleasure gossiping is! I hate how easy I succumb to it, and how uneasy I suddenly become around anyone else doing it. If they talk like that about Betty, couldn't they easily talk like that about ME?
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5.) Packing up early. Let me expain: It's the very end of Sunday school, and the teacher is wrapping up the lesson with the most important part: their testimony.

And yet, I often seem to miss it.

Why does everyone around me choose this moment to noisily snap shut their books, zip up their scripture cases, and gather up their bags? Just wait another second!

6.) Twisty ties. I throw them away immediately upon opening a bag of bread. Talk about a pointless waste of my time!

7.) Cruelty. I don’t understand it. Have a heart, you bullies, you!

8.) Worms after rain. In Idaho, it is especially bad. After a spring rainstorm, I can't even walk on the sidewalk without squishing something. YUCK.

9.) Phone etiquette. I hate it when I am on the phone and the person I'm on the line with keeps having conversations with people around them. Half the time I don't know if they are talking to me, or to someone else, or even if they're listening to a thing I'm saying.

10.) Drama. You know those people who always seem to be in a crisis? The melodramatic is what they thrive on...what makes them feel alive. If they don't happen to have any real turmoil going on, they'll stir it up in those around them. I even had a friend who would simply fabricate it from her imagination. As adults, this got old real quick.
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We're not in high school anymore.

11.) Insincerity. Don't say it if you don't mean it, please.

12.) Slow drivers. I don't speed. I will set my cruise control to the exact speed limit (even in town) every chance I get. Sure, I get those who like to go a few miles over, whipping around me with a glare every so often, but wasting money on expensive tickets just doesn't appeal to me.
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So, if there is someone driving slow enough that even I am frustrated, there's something wrong with that. Going thirty-five in a forty-five zone will make me irritated with you.

WEBSITE WEDNESDAY {jolleyonmovies}

2011-09-07T21:08:00.002-06:00

Then you have to check out THIS site!

Let me explain why I love it:

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1.) Its snarky synopses and movie reviews hold just the right mix of the profound and the cynical to keep you entertained and informed.

2.) Movies geared toward all ages and interests are included: action, sci-fi, romantic comedies, children, movie adaptations, new releases, old classics, and even TV series.
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3.) Not sure if that show will be appropriate for you or your family? Find out the reasons behind those ratings.
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4.) Can't find the specific show you're looking for? No worries. Click on the "requests" tab and fill in your suggestion.
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5.) The site may also be run by my lil' sis. But WAIT! Don't be so fast to roll your eyes. I promise I'm not biased! This girl can write. I wouldn't post about it if I didn't sincerely think so myself.
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6.) If anything, the clever writing will make you laugh out loud. It's seriously hilarious.

GO AHEAD! Browse around for your next movie rental, and give her some blog love while you're at it. Let her know where you came from too. I am SO going to be the favorite sibling after this.

P.S. You can also like the Facebook page HERE.

MANHATTAN TEMPLE

2011-09-04T10:14:00.000-06:00

Our first day in New York, Andrew, Mom and I decided to attend a session in the Manhattan temple. It was at the top of our list of things to do, and Becca would be at work anyway.

After taking a subway, we walked over thirty blocks to get there.

We figured it was worth the trek.

It was surreal to see an LDS temple in the midst of the taxis, skyscrapers, and general chaos. And we were so excited to go inside to rest from the heat, humidity, and loud, busy city!

This is us pouting after the front-desk security guard informed us it would be closed until next week.

We were sorely disappointed.

The plan was to wear our church clothes that day because of the temple in the morning and the Broadway play in the afternoon. But with no temple session to attend, we were pointlessly dressed fancy for NYC sightseeing instead. Ugh.

I though we might stand out a little bit...but I didn't realized how much until a group of guys stopped us in Central Park.

They wanted to know if we were Jehovah's Witness missionaries.

Ha!

But apparently, the Jehovah's Witnesses' worldwide church headquarters is in Brooklyn.

I guess you could say that Watchtower is to Jehovah's Witnesses as Temple Square is to the Mormons.

Anyway, has anyone out there actually made it inside the Manhattan Temple? Was it quiet, or could you hear the honking traffic and construction from in there? I was curious about that.

*If you are curious about Mormon temples, you can read more about them HERE.

BROADWAY PLAY

2011-08-30T19:48:00.000-06:00

While in New York, we saw the Broadway play, "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying."

It starred Daniel Radcliffe...also known world-wide as Harry Potter.

Ring any bells?

I thought it was kinda crazy that he was starring in a musical production. I mean, Harry Potter can sing and dance??
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But we learned that yes, actually, he can. His singing was...acceptable. And his acting was great! But his dancing? It was TRULY impressive. Like, I-was-completely-blown-away impressive.
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Who knew Harry Potter had it in 'em?
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And it wasn't til the end that I realized he has a killer American accent.

The theater was surprisingly small...fancy and beautifully decorated...but small. As a result, it was hard to believe how CLOSE we were to Daniel Radcliffe. He was right there on the stage in front of us.

RIGHT. THERE!

I guess I'm not used to seeing a whole lot of movie stars living here in Idaho, because it was very, very surreal.

I wasn't sure if musicals were Andrew's "thing."

But don't tell me he wasn't entertained! Not only was he and the audience laughing through the entire show, but every time I glanced over at him, he was leaning forward in his chair...eyes glued to the stage...mouth hanging open.

He even requested that we get tickets for another Broadway play while we were in New York. Unfortunately, we couldn't make it work with the short amount of time we had.

After the show, a mob gathered around one of the exits hoping to catch a glimpse of the star.
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What? You can't see him?

Don't worry. We couldn't either.

The only way we could tell he was there was when the crowd started screaming. Body guards were yelling at everyone to back up, people were scrambling up poles and fences to see better, and I was taking pictures of a sea of cameras in the air.

We gave up on the madness and left. But not before a young kid came up from the front of the crowd in a daze. I don't think he had recovered from being the sudden possessor of a Daniel Radcliffe signature, if you can call it that. Signature...mad scribbling...either one.

He was kind enough to let me take a picture.

Anyway, like I mentioned in a previous post, this was the undisputed favorite part of everyone's NYC trip.

WARNING: R-Rated Post

2011-08-27T13:24:00.000-06:00

I was alone in my classroom reading this from one of my new third graders and dying to share it with someone. This little gal made three very funny mistakes right on top of each other...each a little more shocking than the last.

I often have to translate students' experimental spellings in my mind as I read. My thought process as I read this went something like:

You are a nice teacher.
You are smart.
You are cool.
You are fun.

Aww. What a sweetie.

Do you like...touching kids?

Um, that's awkward. Does she mean hugging them maybe?

Do you like...whores?!

WHAT the...?

Do you like to...ride whores??!

OH. MY. GOSH!

It was at this point that I dropped the letter and laughed out loud for a minute straight. I mean, obviously, she wasn't meaning to say those things. In case you are wondering, I'm pretty sure the correct translation is something more like:

Do you like TEACHING kids?
Do you like HORSES?
Do you like to ride HORSES?

Nonetheless, this is one letter I will be keeping forever.

THE CURRENT BUZZ

2011-08-21T21:58:00.001-06:00

I've been busy working on my bee-themed classroom for the first day of school (just a few days left!). As a result, my head is a whirl with cheesy bee puns. This "bee happy" banner I made is just a sneak peek of things to come.

So here's a story for ya:

I decided to be brave and enter some photography into our itty, bitty county fair. I printed three 8x10 photos, matted and framed them, and sheepishly handed then over at the fair grounds. I felt so foolish. It didn't help that I was completely surrounded by parents filling out entry forms for their children.

For several days after, I felt butterflies in my stomach every time I thought about going back. I had asked for my photography to be judged! How intimidating! What if I didn't get any prize at all?
But what if I did?
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My thoughts eventually snowballed into grand visions of ribbons and recognition. By the time I went to see the results, I was entertaining myself with memories of Wilbur from Charlotte's Web, being paraded around the fair with a full marching band. It could happen, right?

That's not exactly how it played out.

Not only were pink Participant ribbons hanging from each of my frames, but two photos were hung SIDEWAYS on the wall, as if the judges couldn't even tell what they were supposed to be!

I'm trying not to let this one experience squelch all my hopes and dreams.

I have given up on vegetable gardens for now. For 3 years, I provided tender, loving care through the summer until school hit in August. Then, it all died...just as everything was nearing its harvest time. I'd just be too busy!

I was tired of putting in so much work for nothing. So this year, I threw handfuls of wildflower seeds in our garden box and called it good. I was worried when for a few months it looked like a box of weeds. But recently...it paid off.

Oh, and this is what our house currently looks like. Dormers built, shingles laid, and most walls sheeted.

Several windows still need to be cut out on the front, and others need to be made bigger. But this gives the general idea.

Next up: house wrap and window installation!

HUMIDITY

2011-08-16T23:56:00.000-06:00

I couldn't help but laugh at these pictures taken in progression on one of our days in New York. Pay special attention to my naturally curly hair...

Straightened. Sleek and smooth (though slightly windblown) as we wait for the Staten Island ferry.

Curling at the ends mid-afternoon on Wall Street.

Orphan Annie. Crazy curls at the Tick-Tock Diner for midnight dessert.

I don't know why I even tried.

TOP TEN NYC SIGHTS TO SEE {according to us}

2011-08-15T01:46:00.003-06:00

I feel overwhelmed by the task of blogging our New York City trip. This is probably due to how unbelievable it was. Or the fact that I took over 500 pictures (not even exaggerating). I mean, where do I begin?

I decided a nice, succinct top ten list would be the best way to start (and you all know how much I love lists). So, Andrew and I deliberated and debated. We saw SO MANY sights in three days that we couldn't include them all, and it was difficult to rank others with certainty.

But hopefully this will provide any future NYC travelers with some general guidance. Consider this the beginning of our Big Apple Series.

#10) Museum of Natural History

Free, with a suggested donation of $20.

Andrew says he's never been to a museum before this, and was excited to see the dinosaur bones. All I have to say is, there's no way this gigantic place has only one night guard.

(Any other Night at the Museum fans out there?)

#10) Museum of Modern Art

Free on Friday evenings.

Yes, this is also #10. We couldn't agree on which museum to put in this spot, so we cheated and put them both.

He thought the Museum of Natural History was awesome...I though it was just okay. I LOVED the Museum of Modern Art...and he wanted to jump under a bus by the time it was over.

It's all a matter of interest, I suppose.

There's just something about original work from Picasso, Monet, Cezanne, Chagall, Warhol, Gauguin, Pollock, Kandinsky, Seurat, and Van Gogh that floats. my. boat.

Can you guess which famous painting that is through the crowd?

#9) Washington Square Park

Free.

After wandering through trashy neighborhoods and crowded subways, this area was a breath of fresh air. Maybe it just reminded me of our college home-town, but I loved the clean, artsy, and youthful feel around the NYU campus here.

See the Empire State Building through the middle of the arch? We sat by a beautiful fountain for a long time surrounded by colorful gardens. This is also a favorite spot for musician street performers.

#8) Brooklyn Bridge

Free.

We walked halfway across and back again. You get a view of the city skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and ships floating by... not to mention the architecture of this beautiful bridge.

If you're lucky, it'll even start pouring just as you reach the middle.

#7) Ground Zero

Free.

The actual site is fenced up while the memorial and the new Freedom Tower are being built. Plaques, pictures, and memorials are plastered on sides of buildings and in shop windows.
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However, standing in the vicinity of where the towers fell and combining it with what I saw on TV all those years ago was more than enough. More to share on this special experience later.

#6) Central Park
Free.

You could spend an entire week exploring this park: lakes, playgrounds, forests, statues, memorials, fountains, bridges, etc. After the afternoon, we barely scratched the surface.

There was something enchanting about that forested oasis in the center of all the noise and bustle.

#5) Top of the Empire State Building
$20.

Not the romantic setting portrayed in Sleepless in Seattle. Long lines. Very crowded. Had to fight to get a good view on every side.
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Yet totally worth it.

#4) Time Square
Free.

Worth seeing in the day and again at night. No one follows traffic laws. Don't try to, or you'll get trampled. Great for people watching, but look out for that naked cowgirl though.

She's...naked, and the cops don't seem to care.

#3) Wall Street
Free.

This was unexpectedly magical. The architecture and cobblestone streets made it feel like we walked into a different time. Make sure to see the nearby Trinity Church as well.
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Where's ~~Waldo~~ Mom and Becca? Can you find 'em in the picture?

#2) Staten Island Ferry
Free.

White sailboats, ocean spray, and views of the city's skyline. One delightful hour.

Not to mention the ferry floats right past this lovely lady.

It would have taken money and time we didn't have to actually land on the island and go up inside the statue. And I think you have to get tickets far in advance.

#1) Broadway Play

Between $50 and $400 a ticket.

This was the unanimous, undisputed highlight of the trip for everyone involved. Wow.

This should be at the top of every one's list who comes to NYC. And I can't wait to tell you more about the show we attended.

Wow. But I already said that didn't I?

CRAFTY GRADUATION GIFT {tutorial diy}

2011-08-10T14:41:00.006-06:00

My sister recently graduated from BYU-I with her B.A. in English. The timing of her internship and the start of her master's program are such that she won't have an opportunity to walk across the stage when her name is called. No graduation cap, no hand shaking with university dignitaries, and no smiling photographs with family members. Poor Becca, right?

But graduating is kind of a big deal. Something to celebrate--something to be really proud of!
Being the wonderful sister that I am, I couldn't stand for this important event to slip by unrecognized.
So I made her a present--a special, personalized gift to commemorate all that she has accomplished, and all that she has yet to accomplish in that bright future of hers.

I bought the fattest letters I could find (greater surface area for maps) and painted just along the edges. The rest I would be covering up, anyway.

Then I pulled out my scissors and thrift store atlas and went to town! Our spare bedroom was--and still is--a wreck.
The hardest part of this project was cutting and piecing it all to fit properly on the wood letters.

I originally got my idea from HERE, but I wanted to make this more personalized.
So I included bits and pieces of everywhere she's lived or vacationed to that might mean something to her: Gilbert, Mesa, Flagstaff, Provo, Orem, California, Nauvoo,Washington D.C., Mt. Rushmore, Rocky Point in Mexico...

...and many, many more. This girl has been busy!
I visually separated each destination with super thin, white strips of paper, and cut the Eiffel tower image from a vintage map of Europe I bought for $1.00.

Then I decoupaged over everything several times, and it was ready to hang on a wall or display on a book shelf.

Then, almost by accident, I came across THIS free printable that was a perfect fit in every way: Becca loves to read, the "knowing" and "learning" matched the occasion of graduation, the colors matched, and it even used the word "GO" in capital letters.

Divine intervention, I'm tellin' ya! I never could have come up with anything better myself.

I printed it out on photo paper, mounted it on scrapbook paper, hole punched the corner, and tied everything together with raffia.

A picture perfect graduation gift that I even got to hand deliver when we visited her in New York last week!

And she loved it.

CAN YOU GUESS WHERE WE'RE AT?

2011-08-06T00:07:00.001-06:00

Maybe this'll give you a clue.

PAPER MACHE {crafty tutorials}

2011-08-01T01:23:00.007-06:00

I've been working on projects in preparation for the new school year. I thought they might serve as inspiration for you elementary teachin', art-lovin', kid parentin', and birthday party plannin' kinda people out there.

But mostly, I'm showing off these creations to satisfy my excessive need to be admired by others.

Just kidding. I think.

Both projects began the same way.

{I was so caught up in the joy of creation that I forgot to take pictures of the process. These 2 pictures come from THIS website where detailed paper mache instructions are also given.}

It's really very simple:

1. strips of newspaper

2. flour and water mixture

3. inflated balloons {I used much bigger ones}

Dip the strips of paper into the liquid and strip away any excess goo with fingers. Then, lay them every which way across the entire surface of both balloons.

Allow them to dry overnight before using a pin to pop the balloons inside. The now dry, paper mache shells should remain in the shape of the balloons.

Now, we're ready to talk about each, individual project.

The first project was inspired by the pinata seen HERE. I decided that hanging by the classroom door, it would complement my sunflower/bee-beginning-of-the school-year theme nicely.

I took one of the paper mache orbs and painted it yellow. Then, I wrapped thick, yellow yarn around the hive in no particular pattern. Every few times around, I would add a dot of hot glue to ensure it all held together.

Bees were made from large, yellow poofballs...that's the technical term...wrapped with black pipe cleaner. After tearing tissue paper into the shape I wanted for wings, they were glued on top. Then, the completed bees were arranged and hot-glued to the hive. That's it!

I think it turned out sooo cute. If I do say so myself.

The second project was even easier to make. I just used the second paper mache orb...and paint.

It was inspired by a story my 3rd graders spend a week on as part of their reading curriculum.

I wanted a way to really bring it to life for the kids. It could even be used to introduce and celebrate the entire unit on Incredible Stories.

I can only imagine the kids' reactions to finding this mysterious object on the table. Just think of the discussions, debates, and assigned journal entries to result!

I didn't think regular paint would create the magical effect I was shooting for, so I spent a few dollars on metallic purple, blue, and gold. This made all the difference.

Then it was just a matter of painting large, sparkly swirls. I'm thinking I'll add spray-on glitter later on.

I also experimented with a nest of raffia. I'm not exactly sure what a dragon's nest is supposed to look like, but I hoped it would help further the whole giant egg image.

I think it would look rather magical to an 8-year-old, don't you?

P.S. I originally found the beehive pinata inspiration on Pinterest. So I am entering it in the Bower Power Pinterest Challenge!

ULTIMATUM

2011-07-30T01:04:00.005-06:00

We went hiking with our Shlect friends.

And here's the awkward shot of the Ashmores.
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Before it was taken, I warned Andrew NOT to make a goofy face. So instead, my obedient husband attempted a normal smile.

I suppose it was better than this picture...one I'm sure you remember.

Or this one.

Or this.

Or this.

I could keep going all day, but I think you get the idea.

But anyway, Andrew's inability to be normal in front of a camera is not the point.

It's about the Schlect's moving. And the fact that too many of our friends in the past have done so before them.

I've decided it's not allowed anymore! No more graduating college and leaving for jobs several states away! I mean, why is everyone so anxious to leave this quaint town...without Super Wal-Marts, shopping malls, or things to do after 10pm?

Don't answer that.

Where else can you get such beautiful, wide-open views and have so many fun things to do outside? It was raining by the time we reached the summit. From there, we watched an incredible electrical storm...until we decided it probably wasn't smart to stand up there like human lightning rods. So we headed home.

It was a grand, last hurrah, with the last of our friends allowed to move away from this place.

p.s. please ignore that my last line slightly hints of psycho, serial killer tendencies. thanks.

OUTNUMBERED

2011-07-26T13:03:00.001-06:00

These guys drove up from Utah...

To help this guy...

...do this.

We loved having them.

We took them to the St. Anthony Pioneer Day Rodeo on Saturday.

I like to imagine this cowboy is thinking something similar to...

AAAAAAGGGHHHHHH!
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What do you think?

That's all my mind would have room for if I were on the back of a bucking bronco.

Got 'em!

And my favorite action shot of the evening.

It was a fun weekend with the guys.

PINTEREST INSPIRATION

2011-07-23T11:21:00.007-06:00

Lately, I have been a Pinterest-ing fool.

While Andrew handles the actual building of the house, he expects me to make final decorating decisions. You know, carpet, tile, paint, shingles, stucco, landscaping, etc.

This puts a lot of pressure on me. What if I don't get it right? What if our house looks like a tacky, mismatched mess, and it's all my fault? I'm no trained decorator you know.

I'll often spend the day "researching," a.k.a. "spending hours on Pinterest" and then, when Andrew gets home at like, 10pm, I'll report my findings. We'll discuss, deliberate, and make decisions, but generally, I get the all too often: "Whatever you think babe. Looks good to me."

The control freak in me loves this response. However, the insecure, little girl in me is hyperventilating in panic. I don't know what I'm doing! And these decision deadlines are fast approaching.

1.) We just had the shingles ordered and delivered.
This is what we chose:

2.) By the end of today, I have to decide on the placement of two skylights. I'm thinking' the kitchen. These have been my skylight Pinterest inspiration:

Source: housebeautiful.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: imgfave.com via Rachel on Pinterest

One day, I'll do skylights in a patio like this:

Source: houzz.com via Rachel on Pinterest

3.) Within a week, I have to choose the stucco color! These are my ideas so far: (ignore that some of these have siding instead of stucco, and just look at the color)

Source: theplancollection.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: None via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: stuccotechutah.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

I'm torn between light and dark colors. All input is welcome through this process. You can be my styling collaboration crew. Many of you have experience and insights that I don't have.

I may not take all suggestions...like my new, frilly, brightly-colored blouse for example, that Andrew hates, but I'm going to wear happily anyway. It can be nice to know others' perspectives, but sometimes, you just gotta do what makes you happy despite what others think, you know?

Anyway. Thanks for listening. Have a happy weekend, folks.

THREE THINGS.

2011-07-19T17:31:00.000-06:00

1.)

{source}

My first sewing machine arrived in the mail last week. An "incredibly lightweight computerized CS-6000i loaded with features." Automatic threading system. 60 built-in stitches. Built in free arm. 8 presser feet included.

The problem is I'm terrified of it. I can't even bring myself to take it out of the box. I just know my sewing skills don't match up to the potential for awesomeness this machine emanates. And I have to confess, I can't even tell you what a "free arm" or a "presser foot" is. See why I'm scared?

My goal is to work up the courage to read the user's manual this week. Wish me luck.

2.)

I recently watched in horror as a neighbor painted their beautiful red brick home {not pictured} a light brown...or as Andrew forlornly stated...the color of poo.

Who does that?! Who paints over red brick?!

3.)

It was amazing.
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I would have changed very little about it. What a satisfying end to an era.

ASHMORE HOOPLAH

2011-07-17T18:00:00.001-06:00

That weekend the walls went up so fast, the Ashmore clan had driven up from Utah to help out. With eight visitors, our current little home was bursting at the seams.

The boys slept in a tent in the backyard {something I doubt they minded}, because the guest room and the living were both taken.
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Andrew thought it would be hilarious to surround their tent with our collection of baby trees. We only offer the most realistic camping experiences here at our place.

It was fun to see the family affair our home building turned into: men raising walls...woman providing food...nieces getting the garage built...
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I felt like we all should have worn coordinating plaid shirts and ended the day with a whoopin' square dance.

But in all seriousness, everyone's pitching in put a special mark on this new home of ours.

While the men worked, the ladies spent the day roasting in our non-air conditioned home. Ninety-five. flippin. degrees.
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To illustrate my point, poor pregnant Gabe woke up from an afternoon nap and promptly stuck her head in my freezer.

I though it was a camera-worthy moment.

Lucky for us, Idaho tends to drop thirty degrees the moment the sun sets. So we spent our evenings eating on the red picnic table, lounging on the grass, and playing with explosives.
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Andrew and I shot Harry Potter spells at each other with our magic sparkler wands, before the guys experimented with how dangerously close they could shoot bottle rockets off without losing an eye.
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In case you were wondering, we all survived the weekend. And we're excited to have the boys here again to help with the roof soon...hopefully, with lower temperatures this time!

BUILDING UPDATE {walls and trusses}

2011-07-15T22:01:00.003-06:00

Two weeks ago, exterior walls went up.
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In one day, actually. It was quite amazing to watch.

The house looked completely different by the end of that day...like it was an actual house or something. Imagine that?

Then, the interior walls and garage were added.

And today, Andrew and his buddy began flying trusses. This is at about 2pm.

It's all coming together. Look! You can even tell our master bedroom is a master bedroom!

And my ridiculously/wonderfully large laundry/mudroom is actually looking like my ridiculously/wonderfully huge laundry/mudroom.
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I've never experienced such giddy anticipation for washing dirty clothes before.

It's an odd feeling, considering as I am often tempted to just burn the old clothes and buy new ones rather than do any laundry.

This is the house at about 8pm when I stopped by for dinner. Only a few more trusses left to place!

Poor Andrew has been been working 24/7. If any of you have seen him lately, you may have noticed the perpetual sunburns and the glaringly obvious sunglasses tan line. Oh well.

Within another week, the roof should be sheeted and shingled!

DIRTY

2011-07-13T16:58:00.000-06:00

For about a week, Andrew returned from working on the house looking like this.

He told me he had been laying chalk lines, to which I responded, "With what? Your face?"

He looked like a darn coal miner.

Love my workin' man. I'll have to show you pictures of the new house in a day or two. Exterior and interior walls are up!!