Don't worry about it.

Because I have to

2012-01-05T13:47:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, I am not going to lie, I am kinda bored with the thought of blogging but I feel the need to do it because it is kinda a journal of my life in some ways. I honestly thought I would have a little more time on my hands to come up with fun blogs and pictures. It turns out that these stay at home moms do a lot of work. Maybe now that the holidays are over and we are headed into some cold days, I will make more time.

Anyway, Christmas was good this year, I would say one of the better Christmas's I have had ever. What was the difference, you ask? Less gifts, more just enjoying my family and all the fun Christmas traditions. I kept hearing so many people say "I have so much to do, I have not even started shopping yet.......". My response was "mmm, I'm done!" That is right, got a few little things for Hutchy, even found some on craigslist. Did one homemade gift for Brett along with some shirts and well Abe.... he got lots of wrapping paper and tape. I was blessed to get some wonderful gifts from others and my kids have all kinds of fun things to play with from grandparents but it would have been just as much fun with an even more simple Christmas.

I think my top 5 things about this Christmas were:

- Christmas Eve with the family. We missed the Christmas eve service because of poor planning on my part and ended up going to Jimmy Johns for dinner and being the only people there. We then went home, got the kids in the bath and turned on the fireplace. it was not as we planned at all but kinda magical to all be together at home. The boys smelled so good and were so warm and snuggly, I loved it!

- Watching Hutch get so excited for each gift. I kinda thought it would be overload for him but he did great and I felt like he was so thankful for each thing.

- Snuggling with my sweet Abe in his jammies on Christmas morning. I often want to be more like Abram, I love his childlike heart, life is so simple for this little guy. Oh those cheeks!!!

- Watching my family members snarf down several dozens of cookies I made. I love cooking when others enjoy it so much. I am not sure how many total peanut butter balls I made but they were a hit!!! I love standard white trash cookies like that. Forget my Martha Stewart cookbook when I have Better Homes and Gardens!!!

- Making homemade scarfs for a couple of my family members. I made them from Brett's old undershirts and some Rit dye. I was pretty pleased with how they turned out. Talk about being thrifty!!

Well, there you have it. Hope you all had a Merry Christmas and if you wished it would have been a little more relaxing. Don't spend so much money and time shopping for all those people because you feel like you have to. Don't go to the mall, just find fun things in your own home to share with others.

halloween sucess

2011-11-11T11:50:00.000-08:00

Now that I am a stay at home mom, I have set some standards for myself. Besides keeping a semi clean house, hot meal on the table almost every night and doing at least one load of laundry a day. I have made it a goal to hand make my kids costumes until they beg me for one of those cheap and nasty ones from Wally World.

I saw the idea for this scuba costume last year when I was making Hutch's costume and just held on to the idea until this year. I don't want to brag but I do think it was one of the best costumes I saw (that comment was for you Clark E.)

Anyway, I wished Abe's costume would have turned out a little better. He looked really cute but so cute that he was called a cute little chubby girl all night. He can't help it, it is just a pretty boy!!!

no words just so cute!!!!

2011-10-31T13:24:00.001-07:00

My friend Kim took some family pictures and so far this might be my favorite. Not sure what he is doing with his little lips but it is adorable. He melts my heart every time I look into those deep blue eyes!!!

A shout out: Kim (RICK!!!), you rock. These pictures turned out so cute, I can't wait to let the framing begin!!!

Hutchisms

2011-10-25T06:37:00.000-07:00

Well, I am about a month into being a full time stay at home mom and I am loving it so far. I think one of my favorite things about staying home is obviously getting to hang out with Hutch more and really get to know him better. It has been a challenge to deal with this little squirt at times but it has also been so fun to really see him start to have his own personality.

This past weekend we went out to a farm to pick out a few pumpkins. Hutch and I took a hay rack ride out to the pumpkin patch and on the way pasted a soybean field that had not yet been harvested. I heard one of the Dad's tell his kid that that field was edamame and I just rolled my eyes. I asked Hutch what kind of beans they were and he replies "soybeans, mom!" Ahhh, duhhh Johnson county Dad who has been in the city a little too long!!!

I loved it that my son knew what they were and is a true farm boy at heart. I can't get the kid to sit still for much longer than 5 min, but somehow he managed to ride in the combine with my Dad for almost 7 straight hours a few weeks ago.

Anyway, on to my story. I asked Hutch to pick a pumpkin to take home. I kept pointing ones out that were perfect in shape and would say "Hutch, look at this one, it is perfect isn't it?" His response was "No Mom, it is not right, put it down". I kept trying to get him to pick one since the tractor was getting ready to take off. I just put on a big smile and acted really excited when I saw another pumpkin that was perfect and kept saying "Oh, Hutch, that is it, look how great that pumpkin is". His response was still "Mom, no no, not that one, put it down". I finally started to walk back to the tractor in hopes he would just forget about it and follow me but just then he said "this one!!!"

Can you tell which one he picked?

I love my Mr. Hutch Wiese. He keeps me on my feet.

Oh, one last sorry, Last night I needed to use the ladies room and Hutch walks in the bathroom and I say "Hutch, Mommy needs some privacy". His response was "I can't Mom, we don't have anymore". Smart kid, he is right, mommy does not have any privacy left :)

Stay at home mom

2011-08-02T15:29:00.001-07:00

I am sure no one will even reads this post since I have not blogged in three months and everyone thinks I have quit. I have been a little crazy running around with my head cut off. Turns out, I kinda stink at having two kids, working outside the home full time,trying to keep a house, maintain healthy friendships and oh, yes, be a good wife.

After a hundred conversations, looking over the budget a million times and praying about it. We have decided that I will quit my job in late September. This is an exciting but scary time for us.

Exciting that I will get to spend more time with my sweet boys, not pay for child care anymore (which was way more than our mortgage) and just having a few less things on my mind. I am excited to watch my kids grow and help mold them into the wonderful people I know they can be. I am excited to be thrifty, find great deals on craigslist and share my finds with all of you. I can't wait to get my house back in order and just feel good about going on a long walk by myself. No guilt here!

Scary because we are going to one income with me working a few side things on the side to bring in a little income. Being a stay at home mom is also SO HARD!!! I thought a stay at home mom's had the life of just hanging out in sweat pants, going to the pool all day, watching day time tv and just kissing on kids all day. Over maternity leave, I found out that staying home with two kids is the hardest job I have ever had, hands down!!!

Hope you are all ready for play dates, I am going to need you all so I don't go crazy!!!

Back to work

2011-05-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

Well, so sorry I have not blogged for three months. I was either too busy watching Toy Story for the hundredth time with Hutch, squeezing Abe's cheeks until they are purple or hanging out with my new stay at home mom friends. Maternity leave was amazing and I cherished every minute of every day. It was a ton of work (way more work than I have ever done in my life) but I absolutely loved it. Turns out I really like my kids!

It has been hard to be apart from by boys all day but some pictures that my friend took just came to me by email and it is making me melt. Thanks Kim for making my day!

Introducing our new little man

2011-02-07T17:28:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have taken a week to post about the new little addition to our family. I am so obsessed with him, I can't put him down to write a blog about it.

One week from today (Jan. 31st) our second son was born at 6:22pm weighing in at 6 lbs 15oz. and 18 3/4 inches long.

I don't like telling long birthing stories on hour to hour details so here is basic outline of how it all went down, a month earlier than expected:

9am: I went to hospital in the morning after I dropped Hutch off at daycare on my way to work because I just had not been feeling good and I had a little spotting the night before. Thought I might be dehydrated and just went to make sure everything was ok.

9:30: Started all kinds of tests to see why I was not feeling good and found out my Bilirubin count was high (I guess that means something not great with your liver). I was told it might be nothing but they wanted to observe me for a few hours but no need to have my husband come to hospital.

11:30: Did a sonogram on my liver, bladder and kidneys, took more blood and started me on fluids.

1:00pm: Told me they wanted to keep me for 24 hours to observe since they were not finding out why my Bilirubin was high. I was also starting to have some contractions around this time that felt like more than braxton Hicks. Doc checked me and I was at a 3.5 centimeters.

2:00pm: 4.5 centimeters dilated and I was told I was in labor.

2:01pm: Freaked out completely because I was not ready to have this baby. I had one of my biggest events of the year in a week (The event is tomorrow and I am praying for my staff that it all goes great, Good luck team!!) I didn't not have a chance to tell the nurses my birth plan, I didn't have the bag packed, diapers at home. NOTHING WAS READY!!! So, the crying began.

2:30pm: Texted brett to hurry because I needed my coach since contractions were getting harder at this point.

2:40pm: Brett arrived to save me!!!

4:30pm: Contractions got really hard and I started to doubt if I had the energy to do this since I had felt sick for the last month. I also only had a bowl of cereal that morning and they would not let me eat all day.

6:13pm: I told Brett if I was not at a 7 centimeters when the Doc. checked me next I was going to get an epidural because I was hooked up to monitors, I could not move about and get in some more comfortable positions to labor in. Again cried a bit because I wanted to be laboring in my own way.

6:14pm: Doc checked me and I was a 7, no an 8, Ohh, she broke my water, I was a 9 and I yelled "I need to push now, now, now, now." Brett says "Hey, she wants to push, she said she needs to push". I hear doctors and nurses say "hold on Vikkie, don't push, don't push". My response: screw this, I am pushing and so I began! Good thing the doc and nurses got me set up in one minute because 6 pushes later, Abram Reo Wiese was born. (Reo is my grandfathers brother. Never knew uncle Reo but I just thought that name was pretty cool).

I know he was born a month early but he was ready to come out and so was I. I instantly felt like a million bucks the minute he came out and I have since then. I LOVE NOT BEING PREGGERS!!!! It is a small price to pay but Abe made me work for him. Hutch was a breeze to be preggers with compared to Hutch. The NICU team was there to to take Abe if needed but he got denied within minutes of being born. He was healthy and perfect!!!!!

Here are just a few pics:

This is baby Abe with Uncle Abram, my brother.

Taking a nap at 5 days old.

Hanging with Dad.

Thanks all for your prayers, emails, cards, facebook messages and meals. We have the best friends, family and co-workers in the world!!!!

P.s. I will post soon of the boys together. Hutchy is the best big brother and is so sweet with Abe. He is at the farm this week with Papa Tractor and Grandma Joce and having the time of his life. I guess my Dad even got him to poop on the potty. Hey, he might be potty trained when I get him back, not to shabby. Two kids in diapers is going to kill our bank account so I am all for Hutchy getting potty trained :)

Happy Ho Ho Ho to me!

2010-12-29T11:29:00.000-08:00

This year Santa (aka Papa Strahm) brought me a power washer for Christmas. I know, I know, it may seem crazy but I am sure it is going to be my new favorite thing. I am not sure if it is just this pregnancy or what but I have had the need to clean. That doesn't mean that am always cleaning but I can't seem to get things clean enough and I am constantly thinking about how to get rid of every germ in my house.

Early this fall we borrowed a power washer to do our deck before we stained it and I kinda fell in love with the idea of blowing water out of a hose going like 50 miles per hour. I started using the power washer to wash down the outside of my house, garage doors and gutters. I even blew the leaves out of the flower beds with it and watered my plants at the same time. When my Dad asked for some ideas for Christmas gifts I really had no ideas for him. Being preggers, no clothes sounded fun, I am not really into electronics and I have everything I can think that I really need. AHHH, except a power washer!!!! My Dad got a really good one and I can't wait to blow the winter off of everything once spring gets here.

My Top Ten things I want to power wash first:

- My whole driveway

- House and gutters

- You can add a cleaning solution in the hose so I am going to wash all the outsides of my windows

- The inside of my garage

- Might wash the cars from time to time although I do love Rainbow Wash so we will have to see about that. This power washer is also super powerful so I will have to make sure I have the delicate nozzle on for this project.

- Cleaning out Hutch's pool after it has been out all summer

- Washing under Brett's mower before putting it away for winter next year

- Power washing the grill

- Washing out my garbage cans

- We have a little back patio area that gets really dirty and it is hard to sweep up, this will be the perfect solution.

I would love more ideas if any of you had them. If you are ever in need of a power washer, give me a call. I am more than happy to spread the love :) (only if I get to help do it, that is).

The broom elfs are taking orders

2010-12-03T07:50:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,
just wanted to let you know that I will be putting in another big order for Fuller Brush products before the holidays. Let me know if you would like to make an order. I would be happy to chat with you one on one to let you know the products I have tried and love.

You can also click here to order online!! My account number that you will want to be sure to enter is 1033562.

Just a couple new products that I just got and love: The Kitchen Broom and the window cleaner!!!

Love,
Your Fuller Brush Lady!

the first chop

2010-11-17T07:42:00.000-08:00

Last Friday night Brett decided it was time for Hutch to get a trim. Hutch did not have a ton of hair but he was getting some long pieces by his ears and had a sweet curl in the back. I called it a curl, Brett called it a mullet. I decided if Hutch was going to get a haircut, I wanted him to go to a older barber shop where an old guy who was a little intimidating would cut it. None of this sport clips or kiddy hair shops that cater to 2 year olds. I wanted my son to buck up and do it like a man!!! So, I went on a search and found a barber shop not far from our house that was pretty old school. I even noticed these guys using Suave hairspray on other gentlemen getting a trim. NICE!!!

Hutch did great and he looks like such a grown up now. I have to admit, Brett gave him a cookie to keep him occupied while the barber was using the trimmers. I can't blame him, those things are a little scary so close to your ears.

It was a great experience overall exempt for when we went to pay. $16 !!!!! Holy cow!!!!!! I am thinking Hutchy will have to get his hair cut in Sabetha for now on or go see Papa Wiese. I am way to cheap to be paying over $3 for a 2 year olds hair cut.

Here is an after picture of Hutch reading on the toliet. What a man!!!

hello, I am the fuller brush lady!

2010-11-08T08:35:00.000-08:00

Although, I love event planning, I have always had a secret love for sales and negotiating (ok, maybe the negotiating part is not so secret). I have been told by several people that I missed my calling in sales but never really knew what to do with that information. A few months back I was approached by someone selling jewelry, one selling purses and one selling make up all in the same month. I just can't get excited about these type of products. It may be because I am too practical and really want something I don't want to feel guilty about buying something that I really don't need. I got to thinking, "What would I spend money on?" my answer: a great quality broom, a new scrub brush for that hard to clean shower, cleaning products!!!!

After months of researching, I found a company called The Fuller Brush Company and right away loved the products and the prices. I guess this company has been around for over 100 years but I had not heard of it. If you know me at all, you know that I would only sell something that I personally love. Having a clean house is another passion of mine and I was getting frustrated with my brooms, cleaning brushes and cleaning products so thought it was time to try this out. Don't get me wrong, I still love comet, bleach and ammonia. I often want to mix them all together to clean but thought that might not be a good idea if I want this baby to be born with no birth defects.

The Fuller Brush Company has so many great products that are 100 % guaranteed and I can't wait to keep trying them. Feel free to leave a comment or shoot me an email if you would like to see a catalog. Have to share this product today: the broom below is a great one and is on sale right now. $20 for a great broom that sweeps up even sugar!!!!!!

Sweet Blue Bird

2010-11-01T06:57:00.001-07:00

So I debated and debated on what Hutch should be this year for Halloween. Someone had mentioned to have him be Peter Pan with green tights on and I loved the idea. I was not so crazy about him being Peter Pan but I could not get the thought of Hutch in little tights out of my head. So, the research began, what outfits REQUIRE tights? I know, I know, my son may hate me for this when he is older but I could not help myself. After looking on several websites I found this sweet little blue bird costume on Martha Stewarts website.

The directions were terrible but I think it turned out pretty cute. Hutch loved wearing his tights and I am even trying to think what I could dress him in next year that will require another color of tights. Hopefully I can get away with doing homemade costumes for a really long time. It was fun to make and I love it that is was different than everyone else costumes.

There are many more picture and a couple sweet videos of him if you click on the slide show to the left of this post. Oh sweet blue bird!!!!

A few special Thanks: Tammy, thanks for the super cute hat that you made. It turned out so cute, Hutch wore it all night and even to daycare this morning. Andrea, thanks for letting me work on this at your house and for overseeing this little craft!!!

Guest Post by Dad Strahm: Life's Not The Breath You Take...

2010-10-25T07:05:00.000-07:00

Life brings things your way every day, that sometimes your not sure your ready for, or maybe it is just something that your not ready to hear yet. They can be sad or hurtful things, they can even be great things. Fifteen years ago,I had given very little thought to what life would be like without my own Father, but then life brought that news that he had taken his last breath, and honestly, I don't think anybody was ready for that except him, it was news that I was not ready for, but again,something that I could not change. Life went on....and Dad became a memory in my heart forever. I maybe had an unfair advantage over my other four siblings in that I farmed with Dad everyday, so we visioned things together, built things together, worked together to bring those things about, but perhaps what I remember most, are the times at the end of a hard day or a moment in which we stopped to catch our breath, we would sit down,and Dad would share something with me about the past, his experiences, a family story, a life lesson, maybe even a song he learned as a child, and perhaps his favorite topic......geneology, and a "result there of".

Five years ago, I was given the news for the first time......"Dad, your going to be a Grandpa!" Again, looking back, I am not sure that was news I was quite ready for. Ooooo, that sounds so old! I remember selfishly thinking, "Hey, I just got these kids raised up and out of the house, and now I'm going to have more little ones running around? Where is that time to myself?" But then, that is not how it is. Grandchildren are thee absolute greatest!!! Life issued another another blow, by not even getting to hold little Jentry before she went to be with Jesus. But today, there is Jude, Hutch and Libby, and two more in the making....Good Times! Each moment with them is soooo cherished. This past week, Jocelyne and I were privileged to take Hutch to the American Royal, then off to the PRCA Rodeo followed by a "Little Texas" concert. I am pretty sure that Mommy was a little hesitant when I told her over the phone that the rodeo didn't start till 7:30, and we may not be home till 10:00 or later, anyway, I could sense her rolling those big blue eyes, thinking "What is he thinking, does he know what he is in for?" Hutch hits the hay at 8:00 pm.....except for when he is with Grandpa Strahm, (alias PaPa-tractor).

What joy, though, to walk hand in hand, with such a little man. Life takes on a new perspective when we live in such a "hustle bustle" world, and then we suddenly slow down to the pace of a two-year old's footsteps. Ahhhhhhh....it feels so good! Hutch enjoyed everything, from sitting atop a life size bronze sculpture of a quarter horse, to feeding young goats, being face to face with a market hog, feeling the soft coat of show cattle, getting behind the wheel of a new pickup, or playing on a horse hay feeder. Then, the rodeo, just the mere size of Kemper Arena caught his breath. So we walked step by step, down and down, to row three....great seats!!!! Yes, the rodeo was good, fireworks, laser light show, all the cowboy events, and even Papas-tractor in the arena. But by far the best part......holding little Hutch on my lap for nearly three hours. I don't know how many times I caught myself just looking at his beautiful hair, and caressing his shoulders and legs, and wandering what will become of him someday......what will his dreams be? Could we share he same dreams since we share the same genes? What will be his God given gifts? Will he like sports and be very athletic like his Dad? Will he like to grow things like his Grandpa Strahm? Will he be a great cook and manager like his Grandpa Wiese? What will he name his children someday? Crazy how all this stuff went through my head while he was completely consumed by the busyness of the rodeo.

I have been spending most of my time in a combine these last two months, and in so, listening to the radio each day...."county" of course, and one of my favorite songs today is performed by George Strait called "The Breath You Take" and the chorus goes like this...."Life's not the breath you take,
Breathing in and out,
That gets you through the day,
Ain't what it's all about,
Ya just might miss the point,
Tryin' to win the race'
Life's not the breath you take,
But the moments that take your breath away.
Thanks Dad and Mom Wiese for letting us have Hutch for a day, and thanks Hutch, for taking my breath away.............again!

Love you all,
Papa tractor

"I think I could do that.....I take that gray filley with the two white socks "

"If I give this pig my cracker, will you buy me a cowboy belt?"

"If you put a ball bearing under this horse feeder, it would be a great merry-go-round"

Dad: Such a beautiful blog post!! Thank you for investing time in my son, he adores you and you are his hero these days!! :) Love your daughter, Vikkie Jan.

Day at the races

2010-10-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

Last week my friend at work had a couple extra tickets to the Nascar Races and was so kind to give them to me. I have been wanting to go to the races to help inspire me for my event that is held at the speedway but I am also always up for an adventure. When I was given these tickets, I thought of my Dad right away. I later found out that, my husband,who may spend more money on his hair cuts than I do (not that it would be that difficult to do since I have not had a hair cut in 17 months), only dresses from banana republic and refuses to drink Bud light, wanted to go too. Who would have known Brett had a little need for speed in him?? :) Anyway, Brett graciously agreed that he would spend a fun filled day with Hutch so I could take my Dad and it could be a great Daddy/Daughter day.

We had a great time!!

Happy Birthday Dad and thanks for coming up and spending the day with me!!! Nascar fan for life baby!!!!!!

Diagnosis: Bad Parenting

2010-10-04T07:23:00.000-07:00

Ok everyone,

some of you may know that over the last few years I have tried to become a bit more educated on what I am putting in my mouth. The good news, after learning what I am about to share, is that I think I have only had chicken nuggets less than a handful of times in my lifetime. I also want to take the time to give a shout out to my mother for not feeding me this crap all the time. Thank you for the fresh veggies from the garden and Dad, thanks for rarely feeding us hot dogs but feeding us farm fresh pork chops, steaks and hamburgers. Get ready:

"Say hello to mechanically separated chicken.

It’s what all fast-food chicken is made from—things like chicken nuggets and patties. Also, the processed frozen chicken in the stores is made from it.
Basically, the entire chicken is smashed and pressed through a sieve—bones, eyes, guts, and all. it comes out looking like this.
There’s more: because it’s crawling with bacteria, it will be washed with ammonia, soaked in it, actually. Then, because it tastes gross, it will be reflavored artificially. Then, because it is weirdly pink, it will be dyed with artificial color.
But, hey, at least it tastes good, right? High five, America! "

After reading this article I just had to stop and think about how many kids I see eating these chicken nuggets from McDonald's all the time and I now need to vent. Ok, Ok parents, I will give you a free pass if you have fed these to your children in the past. Yet, if you have read this article and still just can't find time to pack some carrot sticks, an apple and a healthy sandwich for your kid. I am diagnosing this as bad parenting!!!! I know we can't always control how our kids act in the super market or what they do at daycare but you can control what they eat. It is disgusting, no excuses!!!

The End

Welcome to the fam

2010-09-21T13:05:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we traveled to one of my new favorite small towns in KS to celebrate as my youngest Brother, Abram, got married to the most wonderful gal. I have loved Misty from the very start! In fact, I have told Abram several times that if he messes this up, I am keeping her and sending him on his way. I am thrilled to officially have her as a sister and as an aunt to Hutchy.

Misty was the most beautiful bride and we had such a great time with family and just being good ole Downs, KS.

Besides the beautiful wedding, here are some the the best parts about the weekend:

- My Dad rented this hunting lodge in Down, KS for the weekend and it was off the hook wonderful. We had plenty of space, a full kitchen, Big screen TV, pool table, big bathrooms and so many animal mounts that my kid thought we were at the zoo. Seeing my sisters, kissing on my niece while eating Grandma's cookies and quick breads, what is not to love. It was just perfect for a large group of people to hang out and we loved it.

- Putting flowers together with my mom and sisters. I am never surprised at what a great team we are when we get on a project. My mom is so organized and a wonderful teacher. The flowers were beautiful and it was so fun to just help out, talk and laugh together.

- Hutchy with his papa. Ok, Hutch has this obsession with Papa Strahm that I can not tame. He says his name constantly when he sees tractors or when he sees a picture of my Dad and it is just so cute. Hutch can take a little time to warm up to some people but he has a sweet spot for my dad and instantly reaches for him when he sees him even if it has been a whole month since the last time he saw him. There is just something about see my son with my Dad that melts my heart. Hutch usually calls for mama and daddy when he is sad and needs us or when he wants something and he has now added "papa" to the list.

- Friday Night Lights!! That is right, we went to a Friday night game in Down, KS and it was great. Free tailgate with BBQ that was so good and just wonderful small town folks. Oh man, I love small towns. Brett may not believe yet but at some point, I will get back to a small town. It is just a matter of time.

Congrats Abe and Misty, Love you both so much.

Arrived!!

2010-09-20T13:56:00.001-07:00

The baby bump has arrived!!!!

everyone poops

2010-09-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is true, everyone poops but not everyone makes it such"an event". Hutch likes to save his up for a day or so and then it becomes a real challenge for him. This past week after he woke up from a nap, I walked in to find this:

He seriously grew a tail over his two hour nap. The sad thing is that I am pretty sure he started this as he was falling asleep so he had this lump sitting in there for over two hours. I went to change Hutch after he woke up and based on the look on his face, I am guessing he was not quite finished with his #2.

Needless to say, Hutch has been taking it easy on the carbs and been eating some more veggies and probiotic yogurt.

Thanks for the laugh Hutchy boy!!!

Worth every penny

2010-08-23T12:40:00.000-07:00

The breakdown of my last few months:

8 packs of Ginger Nausea Gum: $56
4 gallons of mint chip ice-cream: $16
26 sonic fresh lime slushes: $65
70 flushes after throwing up: $ 140
Throwing up on the street while driving: Absolutely free

Having baby Wiese # 2: Priceless

We will be welcoming a baby March 5, 2011

Tuna Casserole

2010-08-05T13:49:00.001-07:00

Back when I was dating Brett, I would have him over to my apartment and fix him some serious farm meals (Fried Chicken, mashed potatoes/ gravy, pork chops, cheesy biscuits, etc.). I guess I thought Brett was going to like anything and everything I cooked because I grew up always seeing my Dad love everything my Mom cooked. So, I was so excited to fix Tuna Casserole for Brett after we got married, who does not love a hot casserole!!! Brett liked Tuna so I figured, where could I go wrong?? I made this casserole about 3 months after being married and Brett informed me that he hated casseroles and has never been a fan. I WAS SHOCKED!!!! What??? I grew up on casseroles!!! "What are you saying Brett, you are not going to eat casseroles??" Well, here we are, almost 8 years later and I have maybe made maybe two casseroles since. Last week I decided that Tuna Casserole sounded really good and Brett was working late a lot so I just thought maybe I could get the other man in my house to like it.

Hutch did not let me down. After having two bowls of it, he said "all done" as he waved his hands. What a sweet boy!!!

In case, you want to give it a try:

Cook a package of elbow macaroni (I did a little less than one package) and boil them just enough to be soft, they cook more later so you don't want them fully done. Then drain.

Then add to the macaroni:

A little less than half a brick of Velveeta in small cubes
1 can of drained sliced mushrooms
2 cans of cream of mushroom soup
4 celery sticks cut up
2 chopped green onions
2 drained cans of tuna
I added a bit of milk

Then you bake that at 300 for 20 or 30 min. Then break a couple handfuls of pringles over the top and bake for another 5-10 min. until the chips are golden brown. AHHH, enjoy!! We always loved it with a side of peas and cottage cheese.

Test Tube

2010-07-29T11:49:00.000-07:00

It has only been a month or so since I blogged last, yikes. Don't worry folks I have a couple blog ideas lined up so don't give up on me.

So, lets see, what has happened in the last month that I need to catch you up on:

- Hutch started saying some words (car, shoe, more, up, sticker, tractor, daddy, papa and our favorite NOOOOO!!!) He has been swimming alot this summer and growing like a weed.

- Brett and I were reminded of why we will never buy a brand new car off the lot. We just sold our car for a grand total of $2,250 when we purchased it about 7 years ago for $13,000 (the engine is completely shot). Cars are the worst investment, we are currently looking into getting a sweet grandma car, perhaps a 98 Buick, oh yes, cassette player and all. Until we get another car, we are a one car family. We are spending lots of time together and getting better at communicating on where we all need to be and at what time. The good thing is we both work 5 min. from home and Hutch goes to daycare 5 min. from our home.

- I have been busy at work working on my biggest event of the year which is in Sept. (thus the reason for not blogging). It is going to be a fun year with Huey Lewis and the News as our performers and lots of great KC restaurants.

- Lastly, I had a birthday and turned 29 years old. It was a pretty uneventful birthday since both Hutch and I were feeling a bit under the weather but I managed to get some good food in and some nice gifts.

I would have to say my favorite gift was what Brett gave me. It is called a Test Tube and it is where you get beauty products samples 4 times a year in this cool packaging. I am so cheap and hate going out to buy beauty products just to find out a few weeks later that I don't like it so this is perfect for me. I got my first test tube yesterday and it was so exciting to get such a fun package in the mail:

As you can see, Hutch is also pretty impressed with the Test Tube, as he eats his dinner. This thing is so cool!!!! I love the packaging and it comes with a $20 gift card so you can go online and get some fun products. Out of the 13 products in the tube my favorites so far are: a Marc Jacobs perfume called daisy, a Jane Iredale lip gloss, a Pro Clinical Colgate Teeth whitening toothpaste and a Phyto Paris Botanical Hair relaxing balm, Lumene Firming Day Cream (wish there was enough to put on my legs and this tush instead of just my face) and Brow Doctor eyebrow enhancing gel.

Score Brett Wiese, I like this gift and I can't wait to get 3 more of these throughout the year!!!

Coach Hutch

2010-06-17T12:30:00.000-07:00

Do you see any resemblance here????

Red Shirt, Khaki Pants and running shoes....

It's Baby Coach Taylor from Friday Night Lights!!!

I love it!!! I have been calling Hutch "Coach Taylor" today and I think this nickname may even stick.

Oh man, if this kid is bad at football when he gets old enough, mommy is going to be very disappointed. No pressure son, no pressure.

Growing up on the farm

2010-05-25T14:48:00.000-07:00

I can't say that growing up on the farm was super tough. I mean, I had my share of walking beans & Milo, cleaning out pig sheds, picking & snapping beans from the garden, hanging several hundreds of loads of laundry on the line, doing dishes with no dishwasher for 7-10 people per meal twice a day, etc. Yet, can't say I ever had it this bad:

I am pretty sure this kind of treatment on the farm has been going on for years since I found this picture of my brother Abram doing almost the same thing but from a tree. Grandpa Strahm gets some thrill out of doing this to his little guys, not sure why.

You gotta love these pictures!!!

Beagle Vacuum

2010-05-18T09:55:00.000-07:00

We went to the farm last weekend and plan on going again this weekend so I thought it might be fun for our sweet first born (Debo the beagle) to stay at the farm and play for a week. He is in heaven when we go out there eating whatever he can find, rolling in anything that stinks and chasing rabbits all day!! He loves it out there and I love watching him just run free.

I thought this was such a great idea until I was feeding Hutch breakfast Monday morning and Hutch threw a piece of his peanut butter toast off his tray and on to the floor. Typically, I don't even worry about it since I know good ole Debo will come to my rescue and eat anything that falls from Hutch's high chair. It is only Tuesday and I am already tired of picking up Hutch's food. How do Mom's not have a dog???? You would save yourself a lot of work :)

Miss you Debo :( Not only because you are a great "clean up crew" but you are just the sweetest dog I know!!!!

Mothers Day Delight

2010-05-10T07:15:00.001-07:00

What can I say, I love Mothers Day!!! Sleeping in until 9 am with not a peep from the boys + Going to lunch at BRGR after church + Great naps by Hutch while I watched Friday Night Lights First Episode of the season (It was amazing by the way) + time at the park + the gift of flowers and a cleaning lady + time with friends & dinner = ONE GREAT MOTHERS DAY!!

Great job Brett and Hutchy, you defiantly made me feel appreciated yesterday. I love being a mom to you Hutchy!!! Brett, you are a wonderful Dad and teammate, you really make my job as a mom pretty easy, thank you for all you do.

AHHH, how I love my boys!!!

Sweet Cali

2010-05-07T08:28:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love vacation!!!! I love how it is just a fantasy world of no schedules, eating out, shopping, maids cleaning your room everyday, no 8-5 work, etc. I also have to say that everyone tried to talk us out of taking sweet Hutchy boy but turns out that "vacation hutch" is the best kind of Hutch. In fact, we have been using the term "vacation hutch" since we have been back. When he wakes up in the middle of the night screaming, I roll over and say to brett, " I miss vacation Hutch". I am not going to lie, it is a bit of a chore to take along a one year old but pro's out weighed the con's by a landslide.

Top 5 Highs:
- Seeing my husband finish a marathon and seeing him embrace Hutch afterwards. Hutch was so proud of Daddy and was impressed with his metal!!!
- Staying at sweet Hyatt hotels at no cost at all since I had some Hyatt points for doing an event there a few months back.

- Waiting for my son to wake up almost every morning since he slept longer than we did, when does that ever happen at home?? Oh, and he woke up in the BEST mood.

- Traveling with friends, we have never done this before but I think we will do it again for sure.

- Breakfast at The Creamery in Palo Alto, CA. I think I would like to retire in this town.

Top 5 lows:
- Brett accidentally rolling the car window up on my finger while I was putting a blanket in back window to give Hutch some shade. The fight following this incident was not so great either :)
- Eating at this bad Crepe place in Monterey, nothing worse than wasting money on a really bad meal.

- Only getting to eat at In and Out burger once, my goal was to eat at least three meals there even if one had to be a burger at breakfast.

- Getting sick on the way home in the airport and then being sick all week when getting home.
- Accidentally paying 13.99 to watch a movie in the hotel one night and then falling asleep before the ending. YIKES!!

All and all, we had a great time! Check out my pics on my slide show!!

What a welcome!!

2010-05-03T14:26:00.000-07:00

My dad stopped by for a quick visit on his way to the airport last night to pick up Joce who had been in NYC for a funeral. Soon after eating some dinner we got news that Joce's flight had been cancelled and would not be in until the next morning. Poor Joce was so ready to get home and so I was suggesting to Dad that maybe he should pick up some flowers to take to the airport to welcome her home. "Flowers is the last thing that women would want, trust me, she thinks they are pretty but it really does not mean a thing to her", my dad said. I thought, mmmm, what would be good to greet her home?? "How about a nice bunch of Snicker's bar's, she loves chocolate", I suggested.

Just then, Brett chimed in with the best idea ever: "How about you make a sign like those limo drivers do at the airport that says her last name", Brett said and I followed it with "Great idea Brett, how about making the sign out of SNICKERS!!!!!!"

Almost 40 snickers, a roll of double sided mounting tape, a piece of foam core cut in half and three peoples (Brett, Dad and myself) crafty brains working together we came up with this:

I have still not heard what Joce's reaction was but I hope it was laughter and then running into the arms of a man that made you a sign out of chocolates!!!! I know I sure would!!

two vaca's in one month

2010-04-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

Brett and I decided to take a last minute trip a few weekends ago to celebrate with our friend at his 30th birthday party. We were unsure about leaving Hutch and just getting it all to work out but we "Pulled an Eddy" as we say in our house (Eddy's are dear friends of ours that love last minute planning and it seems to always work like a charm for them) and went to St. Louis. Dropped Hutch off with Grandma and had a great time!!!! It was kinda wonderful and refreshing to not have any responsibilities all weekend I have to say. I adore being a mom and feel like I don't get get to see Hutch as much as I would like to as it is but it was good for us to get away for a short weekend. We had some good food, great times with friends and we even got some kickball in. I am embarrassed to say that I was so sore after playing kickball that I could barely get out of bed the next morning but it cold be because I slide into every base even when it might not be necessary.

Next stop......

Big Sur California. Brett is running his very first (and maybe last) Marathon.

This time we are going to be taking Hutch on his first airplane (I know, we are stupid crazy) and making a 5 day trip of it. Hey, it will all pay off after visiting: In and Out Burger, IKEA, H&M, Pizza of my Heart and Pinkberry all in one week. AHHHH, Cali here we come!!!!! RUN BRETT RUN!!!!!

The simple life

2010-04-09T13:33:00.000-07:00

Living the simple life in Sabetha is pretty tempting. Don't get me wrong, I love running to target whenever I need something but as far as bowling is concerned, small towns are the place to be!!!

Top five things I loved about this place:
1.) It had four lanes so our family took up 3 of the four lanes.

You can see all four lanes behind the birthday girl here.

2.) I brought my own cd of music so we enjoyed three games of bowling all the soundtrack of "GLEE", ummmm awesome!!
3.) The shoes were like brand new and not nasty like so many of these bigger city places. I guess people in small towns take better care of their shoes.

4.) The machines were ancient but awesome vintage!!! Misty was a pro at figuring these old things out. (I also love how dangers this machine looks with the large DANGER sign.)

5.) After we bowled my Dad asked for a tour of where the bowling pins get sorted and set and so we took a family tour to see how it all works. I felt like I was on Mr. Rogers or something, it was pretty awesome.
Thanks Dad and Joce for a fun night of bowling, we need to make that a tradition!!!

Ok, here are a couple more pics of the fun night out:

Pretty in Pink

2010-04-05T12:24:00.001-07:00

Ok, I was hoping this would be a picture of Brett and Hutch in Pink but I could only get the boy to wear it for Easter. He does look pretty adorable flirting with his sweet cousin, Libby. It will be my goal to have Mr. Wiese in a adorable pink Polo next year for the Easter Holiday.

OH, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR SISTER!!!!! Hope you have a wonderful 30th Birthday today!!!!

spoiled rotten

2010-03-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

Hutch is a pretty lucky guy to have a warm bubble bath all to himself.

Gosh, we didn't even get water in our baths, my mom just poured a cup of water over each of us. :) Just playing!

(Left to right: Carrie, Matt, Me, Abram. I am guessing Callie was off being a princess and getting whatever she wanted as the baby of the family)

Guest Post: Texting by Craig Strahm

2010-03-09T07:44:00.000-08:00

Ok all you “Don`t worry about it” groupies, Dad Strahm is back for another guest blog. I got this desperate email last week pleading a blog subject out of me from daughter Vikkie, for apparently her well has temporarily ran dry. I have seen Vikkie bash Valentine’s Day, Breakfast in bed, Christmas shopping and a few other pet peeves, so now it is my turn to show where she got her opinionated personality. So what is my #1 pet peeve today…….cell phone texting. Man, it just drives me crazy, and the worst part of it is that I am probably thinking wrong, but I just can`t get past it.
So what is my beef, anyway? (Beef, now there is a “politically incorrect” word that brings up a whole new subject for future guest blogs). Well, I pondered for a long time as to when I first learned about “texting” and what it was. For some reason or another, this picture keeps coming to mind of a 5ft, 4in sixteen year old boy with his cap turned on backwards and his two size too big Abercrombie shirt hanging out, with his pants hanging down so far that his inseam was directly centered between his knees. Oh and yes, pretty sure his shoes were untied as well (another future blog idea). This kid has got his head hanging down with his cell phone in both hands frantically pushing keys to no end. Now I’m observing, wandering who in the world has a phone number that long? Then I continue to observe and conclude that this kid is LD, ADD, Dyslectic, or something, and he just can’t get ten numerical digits in a row right. Wrong, Craig, this boy is “texting”. Yep, even with all those for mentioned disabilities (for I am sure he has at least two of them), this kid is typing faster on that cell phone than this old man can on a full blown keyboard. So after further explanation from the next generation younger as to how “texting” works, and what it is all about, and many hours alone in a tractor, I asked myself “why, why text”? I mean, you got the phone so you can talk to somebody, right? There are circles of friends, there is instant dials, and there are free minutes….why text? I still haven`t figured that one out. Yes, I have heard all the reasons….don’t have the time for a phone call, can’t make or receive a call during a class or meeting, I don’t want to really talk to that person right now but there is something that they need to know from me……I’ve heard them all…..still seems stupid to me. I have concluded that the only real reason one texts, is that he or she doesn`t want anybody else to know what they are talking about…and perhaps that is valid, but to me, that is the most annoying thing there is about it all. If you don’t want me to know, then leave the room, leave my car, leave my house, and leave my meeting that I am trying to chair, just go somewhere else. Why do I have to listen to that annoying “gin-a-ling” over and over again as these texts keep pouring in, or those little “giggles” from the receiver because someone texted something on the funny side. Did anyone ever think about how stupid they look if they are in a room, car, wherever…and they are laughing by themselves? Hey, I love a good laugh; let me in on the joke!
So what are the rest of my peeves?

(1) The “texting charges” I got on my cell phone bills that were made by my kids back when they were on my plan. Hey, I wasn`t going to do that, why pay for it….well, believe me; I paid for it big time!!!

(2) The statistics that are out now as to the average number of texts made by young people today. Astounding, really when you think that someone can text 3000 times a month. Is that all they do? I mean, if I was an employer, and I knew this fact before the interview, the interview would never happen. This person isn`t working, they are “texting”. Here is the big question? Just how much productivity is lost in this country today due to employees not working, but texting? Have not heard that statistic yet!

(3) Texting and driving at the same time. Oh come on, now this is the most stupid thing I have ever heard of. Bet I am stepping on some “Don’t worry about it” readers here. I got a questionnaire last week from Representative Steve Lukert as to my opinion if congress should pass a law making it illegal to drive and text at the same time. Heck yes, but how would you ever enforce that law. The response was if the officer suspected that the driver was texting, they could pull them over and issue a citation. The problem with that? You will turn habitual texters into habitual liars. I can just hear it now…..”Officer, I wasn’t texting, I was reaching down to make sure my seat belt was securely fastened”. But what do you do, when you hear about all the innocent people killed out there because somebody was texting while driving. I met a semi just last week on Highway 36, and I noticed that all I saw of the driver during the whole approach was the top of his hat, tilted 15 degrees to the right. Oh yes, he was texting….all while driving 85,000 pounds of steel and rubber down the highway. REALLY STUPID!!!!!!!!!

(4) And perhaps my biggest one yet, it just really “gets my gourd” when someone is having a conversation with me, the whole while they are texting with someone else. Am I the third party? Selfish as it may sound, I sure feel that way. Just last week, my next door neighbor, whom I dearly love, stopped in to ask my wife and I to lunch on Sunday after church. At the time, I was busy on a project, but I will always drop what I am doing for a neighbor. Then the “invite” was special, even though I had to decline due to a prior engagement. But then, the visit was extended to at least one hour, as the “din-a-lings” started to roll in. Again and again, between our conversation….. Four, five, six, seven and eight times…..hey, I got things to do, how do I get out of this without being rude? Hey wait a minute, just who is the rude one here?
Well, there I have said it. Vikkie, you’ve got your blog. Hope I have not disappointed you, or offended any of your readers. Perhaps I could have written it more lightly in a “George Carlin” sort of way. I`ll save that for my next guest blog “Why I live in the country”. This one will surely make you all laugh!
Till next time, c u l8r!!!
Dad Strahm

**********************

Hey Hey, It is me Vikkie, just have to say that this is a good reminder email as Brett and I just got blackberry's. I am really going to put some guidelines on these bad boys and turn them off when it is appropriate. I also am promising that I will never text while driving. I can see how it is easy for people to forget their manner after getting a cool phone but it is just basis manners, come on!!!! Great job daddy-0!!

clean out of ideas

2010-03-05T09:10:00.000-08:00

ok, I have got to get back into blogging about things other than my adorable son, I said back in the day that I would not turn this blog into baby scrapbook, although I think most of you don't mind.

Anyway, I need something funny or random to happen to me so I can share. Not one darn thing has happened like this or that. So, you may see some guest posts come up until something exciting happens to me.

I guess I could spend an afternoon in the wal-mart not far from my house, I could do at least 10 posts on how crazy some of these people are. MMM, there is an idea. Ok, help me out with some more.

Big #1 today

2010-02-15T09:04:00.000-08:00

Hutch,

It seems like just yesterday I was holding you in my arms for the first time in the hospital and thinking that you were the most perfect thing I have ever seen. I am not going to lie, some of that has rubbed off just a bit with the terrible nursing experience & sleepless nights (even at 1 years old, thanks for the 4am wake up call this morning by the way). I know you will not always be perfect but I do know that I will always love you no matter what. I see the things that some kids do to their parents these days and I can't ever image you doing those things to me but I am sure my time will come. For now I am just enjoying your snuggles, your sweet kisses, your big hugs in the mornings and that stinking cute face. I love you dear Hutchy and hope you have a great birthday!!!!

mr. independent

2010-02-03T18:50:00.000-08:00

Hutch prefers to pick out what he is going to eat these days. He has just really started eating all table food and his favorites don't surprise me. Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, Roast, roasted veggies and even sloppy joes (Hutch gave that dish a whole new meaning with the "sloppy"). AHhh, like mother, like son.

Now I can share.

2010-01-06T09:26:00.001-08:00

A few months back I had my dear friend, Donna, take some pictures of baby Hutch. I was not able to share them with everyone since I was giving these pictures as Christmas gifts. Wow, he already looks so much younger in these pictures. It is almost time for him to get 1 year old pictures. Oops, I just threw up in my mouth a little, he is going to be a year next month??? What the what happened???

Feel free to check out the pics on my slide show.

Thanks Donna for doing such a great job, they are so cute!!!!

Happy 30th

2010-01-05T09:13:00.000-08:00

Brett Wiese turned 30 years old on Jan 31st!! He growns up and he growns up!

We had a low key day on his actual birthday, some french toast for breakfast, Indian food for dinner and games with friends.

On Saturday I threw Brett a party in Lawrence at the best caterer I know (Evan Williams Catering). Her house is beautiful, the food was wonderful and seeing Brett laughing and having fun with some of his best friends was icing on the cake.

A couple shout outs:

Matty, thanks for coming all the way from Dallas to the party, it was so great to have you.

Giffords: Thanks for coming from St. Louis, it is always great to see you, now we need to come see you.

Evan: Thanks for letting us come into your home for this party, we all had a great time.

Sarah, Toby, Maureen: thanks for doing the Michael Jackson "Beat It" dance for Brett, HE LOVED IT!!!

Happy Birthday Brett, WE ALL LOVE YOU!!!

The real santa

2009-12-22T07:13:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I know I am a slacker mom!!!! I bought hutch's christmas toys this year off of craigslist, I didn't send out a Christmas card (or birth announcements, yikes) and I didn't take Hutch to see Santa. It just seems like a nightmare to drive to the mall or crown center, find parking, fight the crowds, wait in line etc. just to see a guy that is 40 years old dressed in a beard. I love Christmas and all but I am not going to kill myself trying to do all the traditions for a kid who will not even remember it. I did kinda want a picture of Hutch and Santa at this young age but it was not high on my priority list.

Hutch had to go in for a check up at his pediatrician yesterday and who was in the waiting room but Jolly old saint NICK!!! I had my camera and was able to get a couple shots. This Santa looks more real to me than any other Santa I have seen. He had a real white beard, Rosy cheeks and his tummy was just like a bowl full of jelly!!!!

I loved that he did not wear the big scary red costume but more like the clothes he would wear in his work shop. Hutch adored him and didn't want to get off his lap, it was pretty cute!!!

Congrats are in order

2009-12-08T09:34:00.000-08:00

After only 8 years of college my brother Abram is finally graduating from college on friday. Congrats Uncle Abram we are all so proud of you. We knew you could do it!!!!!!

tis the season

2009-12-02T20:29:00.000-08:00

This has been the week of getting a "splash of Christmas" up in our house. Tree shopping was a breeze again this year thanks to the Lowe's store just down the street. I know the fake tree is easy clean up and you only pay for it once but I love picking out a tree each year and I love how my house smells of fresh greenery.

Decorating the tree went pretty smooth this year. All the lights still worked from last year and I found three new cool ornaments for the tree this year (I started a tradition a couple years ago of getting one new ornament per person per year that describes you).

Hutch also wanted a tree for his room, this is really the only one that I could find that would fit on his dresser but he seems to like it.

I wished I could say doing the lights outside was as smooth but it was maybe the worse experience hanging lights ever as far as everything working. Our main issue was racing to get some daylight to put these up. We also had an issue with the clips we put up last year to hold these lights. They were so brittle from being weathered through the year that we had to start from scratch. After not being able to find the clips that worked on our roof we resulted to ole faithful, the Staple gun. I have to tell you, it worked like a charm. After replacing several light bulbs, replacing many fuses because of me plugging too many strands into one outlet and climbing up the roof, we finally finished!!!

I know it looks simple but there are 11 strands of lights up on this bad boy. We seriously had a "Griswold Christmas Vacation" moment when I finally got it all to work without blowing a fuse, we stood out on the sidewalk and admired our hard work. Brett was the best sport about helping me and not giving up even when I wanted to. As much stress as it was to get these up and going, Brett and I had the best time laughing and working as a team to finish it. Thanks Brett for being the best guy I know!!!

Let the Christmas Holiday Begin!!

proud of my boys

2009-11-16T07:41:00.000-08:00

This was a weekend full of being so proud of my boys. Brett is training for his first marathon that takes place in California this spring. He and two good friends are taking on this challenge and I could not be more thrilled! I think it so great to have a goal like this and it makes you feel so stinking good when you have accomplished it (Man, too bad I can't find some motivation to get moving more myself, after the holidays, I promise!!!)

Brett did his first 1/2 marathon this weekend as part of the training for the marathon and did so great. I was so happy to see him cross the finish line at just around two hours!!! Hutch was also so proud of his Dad as he cheered at the finish line!!! (thanks Kerry for this picture, I am in love with it)

Hutch was such a joy to be around this weekend. Lots of time with friends and being out an about. This kid loves people and being in the action, mmmmm, where does he get that from??? I was so proud of Hutch being such a good boy this weekend.

Man, I miss my boys this morning. Is it Friday yet???

giddy up lil cowboy!

2009-11-02T07:09:00.000-08:00

cousin lovin

2009-10-26T09:11:00.000-07:00

Just a couple cousins snuggling on the couch.

Oh sweet Libby & Hutch. Can't squeeze you kids enough!!!

Letters from Dad/Grandpa Strahm

2009-10-12T13:57:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my Dad sent me this:

Vikkie,

I just had to send you this picture that you took with my camera , it was just special. It is even cooler when you put it on full screen, which we have currently on our front page on our computer. Hutchie Putch just reminds me of that caged bird on Tom and Jerry that says, "I tot I saw a puddie cat...I tot I did..I tot I did". Hope you enjoy as much as I did. That little one just makes me laugh.

Love,
Dad

Picture attached:

Then an email I got today:

Vikkie darlin`,

I have said from day one that little Hutch looks like you,especially through the eyes and mouth, and shape of head.....well I guess that pretty much covers it, ha!
Anyway, the "tweety bird" photo reminded me immediately of a picture I always admired of you, and so went looking for it on Sunday. I found it, then had Jocelyne do her computer savvy and scanned it to my computer, then put them side by side....I rest my case. I just thought you would enjoy it.

Maybe a little more hair, another year, and a lot less testosterone, and he would be a "spittin` image" of you, right? I miss that little guy. The distance between me and my grandchildren does sorta suck.....keeps me from just droppin` in and kissing a butt cheek or biting some toes.

Back to work,
Love,
Dad

Pictures attached:

I love it that Dad took the time to do this. It made my day and it will show all of you that think Hutch looks just like Brett that really he looks like his mommy.

Thanks Grandpa for these fun emails. You are the best Grandpa to your grand babies!!!!!

the farm

2009-09-21T08:26:00.000-07:00

Ahh, always so good to get back to the farm and visit. If it was not two hours away, we would be up there every weekend. We love it and now Hutch is old enough to love it too.

Good to see my son loves corn on the cob as much as I do. Oh yes, see that stick of butter next to the corn??? BRING IT!!!!!

Hutch could not get enough of farm animals. It was pretty adorable even though I am deathly afraid of horses.

After a great weekend of great food, fun with family and so much to do. We took time to relax. Or at least Brett and I did:

my boy

2009-09-15T13:11:00.000-07:00

I could not resist posting this picture that my good friend Hannah just sent me.

I love that he looks so much like Brett in this picture. I also love that I am whispering in his ear:

" You better sleep all the way through the night tonight or I am going put you in the crate to sleep with Debo". I guess he thought it was pretty funny.

I survived

2009-09-12T19:37:00.000-07:00

Ok, finally something new to blog about (even though I loved that last post and could have left it up for several more weeks). I am slowly coming down from the adrenaline rush and my legs are so sore from standing for three days on concrete that I can hardly walk without looking like I am 85 years old.

A few shout outs:

Brett: Thanks so much for picking up on the slack these past weeks, you are the best husband a girl could ask for and the support you give me with my job always blows me away. I promise to make you a hot cooked meal this week :)

Mom: Bless you for watching my sweet boy, Hutch, all this week and for cleaning my house and doing laundry. You are the best!!!!

My Girls: Andrea, Sarah P, Sarah S, Megan, Jessica: I was completely impressed with how wonderful you all did last night. You were the best help I have ever had. Thanks so much for working so hard and keeping a smile on your face the whole night. I couldn't have done it without each and every one of you!!!!!

David H: Thanks for making sure my kid was still alive when I got home last night.

There for dozens of other wonderful people that made last night so great. You all know who you are, thanks for being the best to work with on this event!!!

To see more pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/vikkiewiese/TreadsThreads2009#

Oh, a great perk about being an event planner is that you are the very last person to leave the event so you gets lots of free stuff that gets left. Last night I loaded up about 6 huge flower arrangements and had fun picking them apart and making my own arrangements. I love having fresh flowers all over my house.

Check them out: http://picasaweb.google.com/vikkiewiese/FlowerCreations#

AHH, ok back to trying to relax with some good old biofreeze!!!

Peace out.

my little WT'ers

2009-08-14T07:09:00.001-07:00

Like father:

Like son:

Brett found this great mullet wig for $10 and it was a great laugh for everyone except Hutch. I don't know, he looks pretty happy sporting the mullet. He looks like a White Trash Cabbage patch baby or something.

he growns up and he growns up

2009-08-04T12:39:00.000-07:00

wow, all those mom's are right when they say "it goes by so fast, enjoy every minute". My son turned 6 months old this week and it is kinda blowing my brains. Sometimes I look at him and can't believe how fast it has all gone. It seems like just yesterday I was crying because I was afraid he was not gaining enough weight, now I laugh because he is a monster. I love seeing his smiling face every morning. I love seeing Brett interact with him, that father son bond is the coolest thing to watch as a mom. I love his smell (even if it involves some serious Wiese gas that he has inherited, thanks Dad). I love his smiles that include only gums and no teeth. I love how he looks at me and I love love that he is my sweet little extrovert!!!

Dear Baby Hutch Jay Wiese,

can't belive that this week you will be eating solid foods and just weeks ago you would choke and scream everytime I tried to feed you. Now you sleep on your tummy and role all about your crib when I swear it was just yesterday that I had you in a tight swaddle to sleep. I remember the day you were born like it was just hours ago and how it changed my way of thinking forever. You have changed my world completely and I can't imagine my life without you. Yes, we have had some tough times but it has all made me love you even more. Thank you for being such a great baby and for always shooting me a smile just when I need it. I love you so much and I love being your mom.

Love,

Mom

p.s. brett, this also marks the week of you being a great father for 6 months, love you so much.

my sweet Libs is here!!

2009-08-02T19:30:00.000-07:00

Thursday night my sweet little neice decided to come about a month early. Even though baby Libby made my sister miss her first baby shower ever, I was THRILLED to finally meet her. I have been bouncing off the walls for the last few weeks getting excited for her to arrive. She is the sweetest little girl I have ever met in my life!!! Libby Anne is 5lbs 8oz and 17 inches long, not to bad for being so early. My sister, Carrie, was amazing through this whole pregnancy and I am so proud of her. She is THE BEST MOM and I can't wait to see her raise this little girl. Jeremy, my brother in law, also is a total natural and it was such a joy to see him with my sweet neice. I can't wait to go back to Nebraska soon and see the Johnsons, I can't stop thinking about that sweet girl.

Love you all so much Carrie, Jeremy and baby Libby!!!!

p.s. A shout out to my good friend Miranda for letting me and my mom crash at her beautiful home so last minute. Mir, thanks for being such a great friend even after being out of high school 10 years. You are the best!!!!!

Oh, now I see......you just need one of these....

2009-07-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

Because I am known for sometimes talking about inappropriate things, ok, alot of the time I am. Most of you know that I have not been to crazy about this whole nursing thing since Hutch was born. After many tears and some curse words, we have it figured out enough to get some fat on that boy. A few months back, I was finally starting to feel like I had nursing figured out, then it was time to go to work and let the pumping begin. I kind of hate pumping but I have worked so hard to get to this point that I refuse to give up. I thought most women were going through this struggle until I saw this picture and wondered to myself if I need to invest in one of these.

This is maybe the most unrealistic picture I have ever seen. Come on, no one wants to talk to you on the phone while you are pumping unless they also like to talk to you when you are running a vacuum cleaner. I also start to get faint when I think about wearing something like this under my clothes on a hot summers day. Oh and nice denim shirt lady!!!

This is my shout out to all you women out there that are crazy (like me I guess) to stick with this nursing thing and pump at work. Nursing is suppose to be so natural but this picture is the furthest thing from natural that I have ever seen.

to bright?

2009-07-15T11:18:00.001-07:00

What do you think?

This past Saturday I celebrated my 28th b-day. Woke up late, hung out with my boys, ate some good breakfast at first watch, ate sushi for lunch and hung out with some lovely ladies for apps, wine and makeup. A friend of Hannah's, Gina, gave us ladies a little lesson on makeup and answers some questions every girl may have about makeup. How do I apply bronzer? What brushes do I need? Can I get good makeup at Target? (the answer is yes on that, I just got new foundation at Target that I think I like better than my expensive foundation). I may do a post on the products that I am now trying instead of the products you can only get at the counter. Here are a few fun pics from the party.

Oh, and I am not done celebrating, tonight I am going to dinner with some more friends to Blue Koi where I am going to eat so many dumplings, I may make myself sick, I LOVE THEM!!!

Thanks friends for making me feel so special on my birthday!

full house

2009-07-06T12:39:00.001-07:00

This past weekend was another wonderful weekend of family and friends. We were able to host Brett's parents, my parents and a house full of friends and kids all in one weekend. I tell Brett often that if I could, I would spend all my money just hosting people for dinner and parties, I love having people over and just hanging out in the kitchen eating. (Clark, I know you are with me on that one).

This weekend was a reminder to me of why I would like to have a big family, the more going on in this house, the better. Bring on the craziness!!!!!

Love you all family and friends, we really do have a great circle of friends!!!!

so far, so good

2009-06-27T18:20:00.001-07:00

Have to say, this weekend is going pretty good so far:

- Car is running like a champ

- AC is up and running

- Cold peach pie for a warm summers day turned out and was wonderful

- Good time with family

- Husband mowed yard and it is perfect just the way I like it

- Got pictures hung in family room finally

- Planted a Jade plant

- House cleaned

- Got to hang out with one of the sweetest boys I know

Can't wait for tomorrow!!

something to cheer us

2009-06-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

I have tried to not get down about our current situation of being a one car family (Brett's Jeep bit the dust a couple weeks ago and we still have not found the right car for the right price) and now we have not had power for the last 18 hours or so. It is 96 degrees out so it would be nice to have a little airflow tonight while we try to get some shut eye. I also have over 240 ounces of "B Milk" in my deep freeze that I worked pretty hard at getting so hopefully the $60 worth of dry ice that we bought this morning will keep it frozen. Anyway, Brett and I went home over our lunch hour and where heading back to work as we were complaining about how the air-conditioner in my car really sucks and needs to be charged when we both saw this truck in front of us and could do nothing but laugh:

Seriously, someone does this??? Apparently they do a lot of it or they would not spend the time to repaint a whole truck with the word "poop" on it. I did a little research and for a low price of $7 a week I could have Debo's poop removed from my yard. MMMM, that's OK, I enjoy going out there once a season and picking up what Debo has not already eaten for for a hot treat. (yes, he is a cute dog but does eat his poop, thus the blog about getting his teeth cleaned, Think how your breath would smell if you ate your poop).

I am in no need of this service but if you are you can go check it out at:

http://www.northlandpoopscooping.com

Ahh, thank you Northland Poop Scooping, not for cleaning up the stinkies in our yard but for giving my husband and I a much needed laugh.

Fathers Day Delight

2009-06-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

Who can resist a man with a baby??? Not me. I am always running for my camera every time my heart melts when I see my boys together. Brett is a wonderful father and Hutch loves his Daddy without a doubt!!!
Happy Belated Fathers Day to all you good Daddy's out there!!! Hope you had a great day!

I Heart small towns

2009-06-15T07:05:00.000-07:00

This weekend we took off Friday from work and headed to my old stomping grounds, Sabetha, KS. For some reason, this is becoming my new favorite vacationing spot. It is not a far drive, there is always great food (I had an amazing steak this weekend) and wonderful time with family.

This weekend I had another couple reasons to love the small town. A few months ago we were told by our vet here in KC that our dog really needed to have his teeth cleaned. I did not disagree, Debo likes to eat his own poo poo from time to time so his breath was out of control. I got a quote from the vet and it was near $250 to have them cleaned!!! Since there are a few other things that may come before Debo having his teeth cleaned such as clothing my child and eating, I thought we would see what the cost was in Sabetha.

The grand total came to:

$60 bones??? What a deal!! They even trimmed his nails for free while he was out. I am forever going to Sabetha for check ups. I had almost a $200 savings !!! Maybe this is a business opportunity for me. I take your dog for the weekend to the farm to wear him/her out and get any vet visits taken care of for a small charge.

The other reason I love small towns so much is because they really help you regain your confidence. This weekend I ran in my first 5K since I got preggers. I just started to run again and watch what I eat so I am pretty slow these days yet:

I got third in my age group!!! Ha ha. Everyone in my family placed in their age groups so we were all feeling pretty good. I may have run the slowest I have ever run but I still got a metal and a bag of dog treats that I won in the drawing ;)

If I could get my friends, Target, D'Bronx, Okie Joes and our church to move to Sabetha, I am pretty sure we would be moving tomorrow;) I love where we live but the small town is the best place to live if you ask me. Go shopping and out to eat in the city but just live the good life in a small town. Maybe someday.

p.s. Dad and Joce, thanks so much for making the weekend so relaxing and enjoyable, you do a great job of entertaining your guests!! Oh, Hutch misses the farm already! Can't wait to come back.

10 Years ago

2009-05-22T08:11:00.000-07:00

Yep, 10 years ago I was a senior at Sabetha High School and I am going back to my home town this weekend for my ten year high school reunion. I have been warned by my good friend Sarah not to go, I am going to take my chances.

Here are a few things that are different about me since I was in Highschool:

- I drove a red VW bug until it kept breaking down and I had to drive the family Pontiac Sunbird
- I was dating a guy that was in the army.
- I worked as a nurses aid at a nursing home
- A fun night out was dragging main in the town 15 miles from Sabetha
- I was eating DQ chicken strip baskets at any chance I got.
- I went to Topeka for fun (that is the arm pit of Kansas incase you didn't know)
- I shopped exclusively at American Eagle (I must have been pretty cool because I think the kids are still shopping there)
- I was a runner up for the queen of hearts at the Valentines Dance but did not win. (I am still upset about this)
- I had a retainer that had a tooth hooked on it while I was having a tooth implant. I would pop the retainer out to eat and I would have a large gap where my tooth was going to be. (The funny thing about that is Brett also had this in highschool, we are soulmates)
- I would wake up on days I had gym class and could not wait to play dodge ball (wait, that is not different than now, I still wake up wanting to play dodge ball)
- I did not enjoy learning (this is the reason my spelling is so stinking bad, I only started to learn how to spell within the last 5 years of my life) Being social was a priority for me in highschool, not homework. I was the girl that took home ec. and shop class instead of a English College prep class.
- I was a swimmer and now I am a runner
- I listed to grunge music (Green day, No doubt, Superdrag, The Refreshments, The Cranberries)
- I never wore heels or wore much makeup (wait does carmax lip balm count as make up?)

I am sure I could think of a million other things but I think I covered most of it. I will be sure to blog about how the reunion went. GO BLUEJAYS Class of 1999!!!!!

Mothers Day Delight

2009-05-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

Well, it is the end of mothers day and I am pretty sad the day is over. I have to say, I think I like mothers day more than birthdays or Christmas (not that I really like either of those holidays all that much). It was the perfect day, my boys took great care of me today and I feel like a million bucks.

Hutch slept in to 7:30am this morning so that was his gift to me along with a full package to pamper myself at a salon. Brett said Hutch picked it out all by himself :)

Then we had brunch at our house with our mom's and some family and who does not love egg casserole (made by Brett of course), orange and cranberry scones and a wonderful fruit salad??? Yes Please!!!

A highlight of the day was dedicating Hutch in church today, it was a very special moment for me to be able to do that on Mother's Day. Hutch slept the whole time but I will never forget it.

Oh yes, the day gets better..... Went out to lunch and home so the boys could hang and take naps while I did a little shopping solo.

To top it off the boys took me out to Mochi-Yo for my new favorite dessert, it was perfect!!!

Now I am headed to bed so extremely thankful for my husband, my sweet baby boy and of course, my MOM's :)

Happy Mother's Day Ladies!!!

Back to Work

2009-05-06T07:29:00.000-07:00

Today is a bittersweet day. It is my last day on maternity leave with my first born. Becoming a mother has changed my life in so many ways. I never thought I could love a little baby so much. I am so much more thankful for my family and wonderful friends after these past 12 weeks. Thank you to all of you that were so supportive and brought us food after Hutch was born. I did not have to make meals for almost 5 weeks, that is alot of meals people!!! Thank you for all of you that stopped by to visit Hutch and the phone calls and emails to call and check in on us. We truly have the best friends and family!!

Mochi-Yo

2009-04-20T10:10:00.001-07:00

No, I am not learning Japanese while on maternity leave, I am letting you all know about my new favorite place for a sweet treat. Oh yes, I will always love Foo's and a small town DQ but Mochi-Yo is my new favorite that I finally got to try on Saturday!! Oh, if you are a MTV Real World fan, you may like this place even more since the owner use to be on the Realworld. Mochi-Yo is frozen yogurt with a great tang and fresh fruit for toppings. It is very similar to Pinkberry in LA which I tried a few years ago and loved. Now if we could just get an In-N-Out burger joint up in this city!!

Yes, going to Mochi-Yo does require a little drive "out south" but it is well worth it. Hey, you can stop into the best shoe store in KC too. Habitat Shoe Boutique is doing a drawing right now for some hot shoes and clothes which of course I signed up for and plan on winning (as I always do) ;)

Here are a few pics of our fun visit:

This is me enjoying the sweet goodness

Wes (the owner) from the Realworld is the guy with the red hair.

Pink Bathroom.... Who would not want to pee in a pink bathroom???? yes please!!!!!

Easter on the farm

2009-04-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I love Easter!!! I do love the Bunny's, pastel colors and spring flowers but I love the reason for Easter even more. Yes, I know most people love the Christmas holiday the most because Jesus was born. Come on, raising from the dead??? That is pretty impressive if you ask me. Babies are born every day but do they raise from the dead?? Ok, I guess Mary was a virgin and she got preggers, pretty impressive I suppose.

We always spend Easter on the farm, my family has a wonder Easter lunch and it is a get together that I hate to miss. Plus the Ham, potato casserole, hot rolls, jello salad and chocolate mousse are a must!! Hutch loved going to the farm, he got to meet all his great aunts and second cousins and hang with Grandpa and Grandma Joce.
Hutch really wanted to go turkey hunting with his dad Saturday morning but Brett said he was too young and he does not have his hunters safety permit just yet. Hutch did get to take a picture with the prize bird that Brett killed though, sweet boys!!!!

wake up everybody!!!

2009-03-17T18:42:00.000-07:00

I guess Hutch wanted to play while Brett and Debo decided to take a much needed nap. That is one happy Beagle and one bored son!!! Oh, there is a reason you should not wear horizontal stripes Hutch, you look chubby, good thing I love fat babies!!!

A new fan

2009-03-12T12:49:00.001-07:00

Not, that I had anything to do with it but guess what???

I found out today Hutch loves the Cosby Show!!!! YES!!! That is my son, my son!!!

A couple shout outs:

Donna: Thanks for the onesie, he looks great in it, doesn't he??

Andrea: Hutch loves his new blanket, thanks so much!!!!

Aunt Callie: these pants so stinking cute!!! I heart spring colors!!!

Farewell Monte

2009-02-27T14:23:00.001-08:00

Monte is the name of the mouse we have been trying to catch for the last two days (Brett named him). Yesterday at 1:12pm his life was ended as he attempted to eat the sour Lifesavers gummy ( I felt kinda bad that he did not at least get a last good meal before his life was ended). I really didn't think you could get mice in the city but I guess you can. It worked out that my mom was in town this week so she and Brett were the mice hunters and I just stood back and let them do the work.

Monte,

Sorry we had to kill you little guy, I hope it was not too painful to get your neck snapped in half but I really can't have you around my house. You are dirty and gross and I am a clean freak. I do hope this was a sign to all your little friends to not come around my piece no mo!!!

Pretty Cute

2009-02-22T16:53:00.000-08:00

Ok, I know I said I would not make this blog about my first born but he is kinda my life these days. I had to share these pics my good friend Hannah took. Pretty cute if you ask me ;)

Baby Hutch

2009-02-18T15:40:00.000-08:00

He is here:

Hutcheson (we shall call him Hutch) Jay Wiese!!!

Born at 2:32 am on Sunday, Feb 15th!

He looks just like Brett which I love of course!

I will try to keep up on the blog but I may be taking a couple weeks off to take care of the new little one.

baby pool

2009-02-10T08:21:00.000-08:00

Ok, now that my event is over and I am wrapping stuff up at work, I can now relax a bit and think about pumping this little guy out. I think everyone was a little surprised I made it through the yesterday without going into labor. The highlight of the event was getting to meet Dara Torres (our speaker for the night), she was so nice and asked when I was due. She even wanted to know the name so I ran it past her to see what she thought. Her response :"Oh yes, that is a great name. It is kinda unique but really hip too". It kinda sealed the deal for me, I think Brett did a great job of picking the name so I am excited to announce it to you all in a week or so.

My due date is next monday and I feel like people are starting to make bets so I figured I would go ahead and start a pool and give out a grand prize to whoever gets the closest. Brett has picked Feb 20th at 10am and I have picked Feb 21th at 10:30 am. I guess if we get are the closest then we get our own grand prize ;)

Ok folks, now is your chance. Leave the date and time of day you think Baby Wiese will get here and we shall see who the winner is!

Good Luck all!!

Oh, some of you have been requesting one more preggers pic of me, I will try to get that up. For now I thought I would post Dara since this is what I would like to look like this after the baby is born ;) Hey, Dara did it, maybe I will too. Who knows, maybe you will see me at the next Olympics ;)Ummm, no.

sneak peek

2009-01-26T15:13:00.000-08:00

Here is a sneak peek of the baby crib. My sister did a great job of sewing this, I love it!!! I still have a few things to put on the walls to add some color.
I have hung just a few pictures (actually my good friend Andrea did) but I still want to do a decal above the crib and a few other things. My mom is going to recover a glider I found on craigslist (of course, I can't stop) and I hope to find an armoire by this weekend for some more storage. Baby Wiese, we are getting ready for you but don't think about coming out for three more weeks ;)

I heart Friday Nights

2009-01-14T11:06:00.000-08:00

Friday Night Lights that is! This is my favorite show and I have been waiting way too long for the season premier which is this friday night on NBC. My obession for this show started last season but since then I have gone back and purchased the first season and have watched it and loved every minute of it.

I love this show for so many reasons but I would have to say my top three:

1.) I love the small town feel of the show, it reminds me a lot of how I grew up and what football season was like in a small town.

2.) I love the relationship of the Coach and his wife. I love the way they talk to eachother and how they are such a team when it comes to their home life and in work. I have actually requested that Brett talk to me how Coach talks to his wife. You will just have to watch the show to see what I mean by that.

3.) I love the team aspect of this show, I have always thought that a team of young boys that bond over a sport is so cool. Hopefully our son wants to play football and I can watch him bond with his team and beat some people up in the process. I also just love how everyone respects the Coach and how Coach is like a father to so many of these boys.

One more thing I love about the show that I have to mention is the character Tim Riggins. I have a minor crush on this character, ok, who am I kidding, I have a serious crush on him to the point where I kinda want to name our first born Riggins. Maybe Riggs for short? Any takers? Here is a picture if you need to know how cute he is:

My old roommates brother out in LA also loves Friday Night Lights, he has much better reasons for loving the show than just having a crush on Riggins and loving the drama.

Happy Watching!!!

my view these days

2009-01-02T11:18:00.001-08:00

I know I promised not to blog about baby stuff too much but it is hard not to only think about my huge stomach when his is my view. Keep in mind, these are my dad's cowboy boots that I threw on out at the farm and they might be two sizes to big ;)

New Years Eve Babe

2008-12-31T07:56:00.000-08:00

Happy 29th Birthday Love!!!

Blog Christmas Card

2008-12-15T14:36:00.000-08:00

Because I can barely get my Christmas gifts bought, don't even think I am getting a Christmas card out this year. Here you are all, Merry Christmas!!!!

Oh, Debo was to busy sleeping by the Christmas Tree to participate in the picture this year.

come a long way.

2008-12-12T11:45:00.001-08:00

Milk shake at 4 months:

Milk shake at 7 and a half months:

As you can see, I have been doing some serious baking in that oven. The "fat face" has begun.

Brett: The Bionic Man

2008-12-09T08:42:00.000-08:00

I know, you are all tired of reading "Happy Thanksgiving". I really have not had much to update besides me getting bigger by the day. I now sing "Fat Guy in little coat", every time I put my winter coat on since it gets harder and harder to button it up with each day. I was planning to blog about that but then this came up and I could not pass it up.
The day before Thanksgiving, Brett went to the doctor to get a prescription for a rash on his foot that he could not get rid of. It was not athletes foot or anything like that, it was just a rash that he needed to take care of. So, this little visit to the doctor ended up being a huge ordeal. Besides them cutting off three moles that looked suspicions (they were not cancerous) and giving him some cream for his feet, they did this to him:
I can't tell you how hard I laughed when Brett took off his shirt, I still laugh when I think about it, he is like the bionic man! I guess they think Brett is allergic to something and that is what is giving him the rash on his feet. What is he allergic to?? Nike's?? Brett never goes to doctors, never gets sick and hates anything medical. It is kind of funny watching him try to do everything the doctor is telling him to do. The best part about this "Patch test" on his back is that he can't take a shower for a week so that means baths. I want you to think about a 6 foot 5 inches grown man climbing into a bathtub, ha ha. I mean, don't think about it too much but just a little. ;)

Happy turkey Day

2008-11-26T10:06:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving! I plan on making myself borderline ill tomorrow as I pound the carbs down ;) The game plan is to eat thanksgiving meal with Brett's family for lunch and my mom's side of the family for dinner. I will need to pace myself but I think I can handle it ;)

Top two things I am excited about for Thanksgiving:

1.) Mashed Potatoes
2.) Stuffing

The end

mean roommate

2008-11-20T14:05:00.000-08:00

I am so mean, Brett and I worked in the yard last weekend to get the leaves out of our back yard and into the Roeland Park street for leave pick up and I thought this would be funny:

Not sure why I thought it was a good idea to trap my sisters car in the leaves, Brett wanted no part of it. After all, Callie did rake all the leaves for me last week and she shares her stash of double stuffed oreo's from time to time.

Anyway, Roeland Park this time of year is kinda funny. It is like winter after a big snow and all the snow is on the sides of the streets. Now it is just huge piles of leaves. If I was a kid I would want to run all the way threw them, if I didn't have a kid in me, I still might do it.

Roast Beast!

2008-11-19T07:50:00.000-08:00

I know this blog is suppose to be about really interesting things that I think about but I may have to start anther blog about my love for red meat, I can't seem to think of anything else and I fear I am boring some of you. My good friends welcomed their third child into the world last week so it was time to make a comfort food meal to deliver to them. That's right, Roast (RED MEAT) with carrots and onions, mashed potato casserole topped with cheese, cinnamon apple sauce Jell-O salad and a pecan and chocolate pie with a homemade crust.

I know everyone can make a roast but for some reason I can't seem can make a good roast consistently. I think I was 2 for 6 on the good roast score. I could not screw this one up for I was going to be feeding it to other people and because it was a big roast so I thought I would take a half of it for myself ;) This called for desperate measures so I called up one of the best cooks I know (my momma of course) and had her give me some advise on what I was doing wrong. I used all her tips, put it in the oven over lunch yesterday and just prayed for a great roast. When I walked in the house after work, it smelled just like home cooked meals on the farm, oh I swear my eyes were a bit watery!!!! I pulled out the roast and cut a sliver off to see about taste and tenderness. I threw my hands up and out loud said "YES, I DID IT". I danced around the kitchen like a little kid and felt like a million bucks. It is sad that I needed that roast to turn out in order to make my day, it is the little things I suppose.

I do wish I could be more of a Susie home maker but working all day does not leave much time for that. I almost can't wait to be in the kitchen all day to bake Christmas cookies. Maybe all preggers women go through this stage but I just want to bake every night, let me know if you are craving something and I will get on it ;)

bless you, my dear father

2008-11-18T10:06:00.000-08:00

This is NOT what a preggers girl wants to eat:

Ugg, sunday I made baked fish, green veggies and rice. I know it is suppose to be good for me but I barely got it down.

Dad, thank you so much for sending some red meat my way, I will be hoarding it like never before. Fish and chicken for Brett, hamburger patties for Vikke.

Sisters Weekend

2008-11-10T08:45:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a great weekend! Not only did I find another great deal on craigslist on a buffet table for my kitchen for 60 bones but my older sister, Carrie, came into town this weekend from Seward, NE. While Brett was having a "Boy's Weekend" with his friends in Tampa, us ladies took advantage of no boys and had a little sisters weekend. I thought I would take the opportunity on my blog post today to brag about my sisters. I really have been so blessed with wonderful sisters. Yes we have had our ups and downs in the past and still can have little fights but all in all, we love each other and love spending time with one another.

My older sister, Carrie is so talented and can pretty much do any craft you can think of, she is also one of the most nurturing people I know (she offered me a back rub everyday she was here and I didn't even have to ask). Callie is my little sister and lives in my basement, hee hee, that sounds kinda funny, don't worry she has a nice set up down there. Callie works for a daycare and is wonderful with children so she is going to be such a huge help when this baby comes in Feb. and I have no clue what I am doing. Callie also has a love for raking leaves so she raked all our leaves last week just in time for the Roeland Park leave vacuum pick up (one of the biggest perks about living in Roeland P is the leave pick up I might add, don't even have to bag them).
Back to bragging, Carrie made me some kitchen curtains which look wonderful and she helped me pick out and paid for my baby bedding for the crib. There are so many options on baby bedding that you can buy but they are either really expensive or really ugly. Carrie and I found the perfect fabric for my little guys room ;) Oh, what a great Auntie!!!! Ok, it gets better, not only did she sew and give me a good back rub but she also made me these Swedish pancakes on Saturday morning that were like crepes and were soooooooooooooooooo good!!!!! I can't really remember how many I ate but I am always starving when I wake up so it was great to have some tasty carbs first thing in the morning. Carrie is not just good at sewing, cooking and taking care of people but she also cracks me up. She is such a nut and seems to know just what to do to make me about pee my pants. Oh, I almost forgot, she even took the blue tablet out of my toliet so it is bright white water again, ahh yes!!!

Thanks Carrie for a great weekend and for hanging out with me and Callie and making us laugh so much. Love you and miss you already (please move closer) ;)

Spooky Spooky

2008-10-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

Growing up on the farm, we never really got trick or treaters so I always look forward to handing out candy now that I have them coming to my door. Living in the city does have some perks and that is sure one of them. I love seeing some of the costumes people come up with and I get a kick out of kids that can barely walk coming to my door, seriously, can you even eat candy???

Though I love handing out candy to all the wonderful little kids, I am going to put some ground rules in place this year that I have not done in the past.

1. You must say "Trick or Treat"!! Or you get nothing but me coming to the door saying "Hi, can I help you?"

2. If you are an adult and you come to my door and say your kids are in the car and that is why two adults are standing at my door, I am going to have to turn you away. If your kids are in the car and too tired to get out to get their own dang candy then I would say you have enough candy for the night.

3. If you have a homemade costume you get three pieces of candy instead of one. Whatever happened to the days where you would make your own. I never once had a costume from Wal-Mart or Target. Sorry it is not that clear but here is a picture of all us kids back in the day:
That is me second from the left, I was Georgy the Ghost
almost every year for Halloween and I was fine with that, no need to change it up every year, just find a sheet face paint from the local pharmacy and we were set! I think my mom spent no more than $2 per person on Halloween ;) (oh how cool is the color of our refrigerator, I would love to get my hands on a vintage refrigerator like that now).

Ok, back to the rules.

4. If you come up and grab a whole handful of candy, I am just going to slap your hand this year instead of telling each kid, only one piece. I never took more than one piece of candy at each house, dang kids these days.

Well, should be a great night, I will have to let you know how enforcing these ground rules goes, I don't want to come across as a grouch but come on, it is just basic rules.

Happy Halloween all!

Things You Might Not Know About Me…Pregnancy Edition

2008-10-23T06:45:00.000-07:00

1. I sleep in sub-zero temperatures (i am normally sleeping with a heat blanket by this time of year).
2. I take showers in the dark in fear that I will catch a glimpse of my enlarged ars in the mirror.
3. I would like to eat red meat for every meal, it even looks good raw.
4. I can go through a box of cereal and a gallon of milk in about 72 hours.
5. I can go only about 40 minutes without having to pee and only about 5 minutes with running.
6. The smell of cleaning solutions smell like heaven but the smell of chicken and pork still kinda make me gag.
7. I find myself crying in my car for no reason daily.
8. It never fails after I tell Brett about some new weird thing that is happening with my body, he responds: "Its magical"!!! It always makes me laugh.
9. Sweets are out and carbs are in!!!! I will pass on the chocolate but would love another helping of mashed potatoes and gravy.
10. I secretly have been flashing my stomach around to see if I get better attention and I am finding that it works. Yesterday I was at a crosswalk and my umbrella was covering my stomach, no one would stop to let me go. The minute I put it down to reveal the baby bump a women nearly made her self wreck to stop for me. People smile at me more, open doors, ask me if I need help and just tell me I am adorable. I could get use to that part, I have not been called adorable since I was 4 years old.

Got the blues

2008-10-20T09:28:00.001-07:00

Well, besides it being Monday and me hating this day of the week, I have another problem that is contributing to me having the "blues"..... this:

Thats right, I made the "freshman mistake" and thought it would be a good idea to have a toilet bowl self cleaner, I don't know what I was thinking. I guess I just thought it would be nice to not have to clean it so often although I do love any chance I get to use Comet (one of the best cleaning products out there besides bleach and X14 shower cleaner). Anyway, I guess I was not thinking clear when I dropped this tablet into my toilet tank and it was half bright blue and half white, I didn't think it was going to make my toilet look like one in the Quik Trip down the street from us, CRAP!!! Now, what do I do???

I don't really want to fish this thing out of my tank but I am not sure I can handle blue toilet bowl water for 4 months either. When I get up to flush I almost run away as fast as I can afraid that some of the blue dye will get on my pants or something. Blue water is meant to be at Worlds of Fun and that is it, not in my bathroom. Anyway, guess I will be sure to get the all white tablet next time if this stuff even works.

Oh Mondays!!!!

Larryville visit

2008-10-15T11:27:00.001-07:00

Monday night Brett and I took off work early to do a date night in Lawrence. The plan was to go see the boy who I use to babysit for in college play football (crazy that he is old enough to play football, he was just a little guy when I started babysitting). Because of the rain, his game was canceled but we thought we would go anyway and I am so happy we did, what a great time!

Top 5 fun things we did:

- Stopped by our old stomping grounds where Brett and I fell in love, Yes, Oliver Hall baby!!! We even went up to the 6th floor (were Brett lived) and took a couple picks of us hanging out in the lobby area. It was pretty funny to pretend to be a knocked up college kid ;)
I thought I would take an updated preggers pic while I was up there by the elevator:

- Driving through the beautiful campus and played this game where we decided what each person on campus was like or what their major was. Things like "oh, there is a non trad", "Umm, band nerd to your left", "Oh, that guy is for sure an engineering major" and many other comments were made, it was a fun game and I could have played it for much longer but we were getting hungry for some dinner.

- Eating dinner at Free State Brewery. We met up with our friends the Luce's for some cheese dip and good beer, or at least I hear it was good. It was great to see our friends and laugh together, they are the best!!

- Our visit with the Almanza family, I was completely entertained for a full two hours, it was great. The kids have grown so much since I use to babysit for them in college but their personalities are just the same. I adore this family and hope my kid can live up to these kids, Love you Almanza's

- Lastly, hanging out with Brett was in the top 5 of course, I have always said it, he is the best person to travel anywhere with.

All and all, it was a great time to just get away for a weekend night and be with friends and people I love.

Birthday weekend in Sabetha

2008-10-09T09:39:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Brett, Debo and I traveled to Sabetha (my hometown) to celebrate my fathers 45th (or 54th) birthday ;) I always forget how much I love going back to the farm during harvest time when all the combines and grain trucks are out and about. It is such a busy time for farmers but I love it. Brett also loved getting to drive the grain truck for dad on Saturday, deep down I think he wants to be a farmer but I am pretty sure he will have to settle for only growing grass in our yard (we all know he is the cutest lawn boy there is anyway).

The weekend was full of family fun and food of course (the country way). Saturday night we all went out for dinner at a steakhouse that was just 15 minutes outside of Sabetha in Humbolt, NE. This restaurant really cracked me up because it was in a Morton shed building and really didn't look like a place that would serve food but when you walked in, it was pretty cute. Kinda a cabin style if you will. I had baby back ribs and fried chicken, yes that is what came with the meal, I thought it was kinda a weird combination but it all tasted great ;) Dinner was followed by the best chocolate cake in the world, my sisters 6 layer chocolate gauche cake, it was amazing!!! Carrie ended up giving her business card to people in the restaurant because they were so impressed :) My sister even had enough cake to share so pretty much everyone in the restaurant got a piece of cake, I love small towns.

You tell me that is not the most beautiful cake you have ever seen!!!!! Nice work Carrie!!

Following dessert, we then did Karaoke at this restaurant, I know, even more weird right?? I would have to say, I was pretty impressed with our party of about 15 people, we didn't have any wine and most of us got up and sang. Yes, even Brett and I did a duet to the tune of "Total eclipse of the Heart"(Brett's choice, of course). I love the little boys face in this picture, he probably thinks we are crazy ;)

Joce, thanks so much for putting the whole weekend together, you may have a future in event planning ;) Dad, thanks so much for having a birthday so we could come home and get spoiled with good food and fun!!

Feel free to check out the rest of the pictures of the weekend on my slide show.

and I can't fight this feeling anymore...

2008-10-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

So I told myself back in the day I was going to be super healthy when I got preggers and that I was only going to gain baby weight. I had a grand plan to hit the gym, get good work outs and eat lots of veggies, fruit and lean meats. Looks like I am dropping off the deep end ;) I have been so tired that going to the gym takes every ounce of energy out of me. I have been doing great on my fruit intake but my lean meats and veggies need some work.

For some reason I have been craving these Baskin Robbin chocolate malts that cost as much as a full meal. I was told by my mother in law that she also craved these when she was preggers with Brett and that she had one a day!! Holy cow, I have not gotten that bad, one a week maybe. Ok, I had two last week, so what!!

I think I may need to go to the grocery store and get some low fat ice cream and start making mini milk shakes at home when I have the urge. Not sure the bank account can handle a $4 malt this often. It is crazy that a chocolate malt cost that much anyway!! Although, it has been worth every penny the minute I start sucking this bad boy down ;)

Anyway, sorry this post is kinda stupid, I know you are suppose to blog about stuff that is on your mind and that you are thinking deep about but honestly, this has been on the top of my list. Ohhh, I must get control!!! I think my new goal is to only allow myself a malt once month and allow myself one free meal a week where I can eat some carbs (potatoes: I heart you!). At this rate, not only will I break the bank but I am going to break Brett's lap when I sit on it.

My obsession continues!

2008-09-25T12:31:00.000-07:00

As some of you may recall over a year ago I posted about one of my favorite shows, yes, the Cosby Show of course.

My obsession with this show is now worse than ever, thanks to cable television and my DVR, I am now viewing 4-5 episodes a day. I have a million other things to do but can't make myself get off the couch to do them. I think the obsession is starting to get out of hand, I have decided instead of getting parenting books on how to raise my first born, I will just use the Cosby Show as my example. I come away from watching that show wanting to work hard at my marriage and soon parenthood. What show makes you want to do that??

Desperate Housewives: Makes me want to gossip
The Hills: Makes me want to go shopping and clubbing all day
Project Runway: Makes me wish I would have learned how to sew from my grandmother
The Office: Pure entertainment!
And the list goes on and on, there is just not a show like this today that has so many great lessons in each episode. (with a small exception of Friday Night Lights but even that is borderline sometimes and it did not even make it to cable this season!)

Top Ten things I love about The Cosby Show:
-I love that Dr. Huxtable is married to a lawyer but they still are tight with their money. I am so tired of America spending more than they make, seriously!!!!
- I love that Dr. & Mrs. Huxable are always willing to talk to their children and that their children know they can come to them about anything! Last night's episode was one where Dr. Huxable had been at the hospital all night to deliver a baby and he came home to rest on the couch and Theo walks in from school. Dr. Huxable was dead tired but sits up to talk to Theo about how his day was, just so happened Theo was having some problems and really needed to talk. Who does that????
- I love how the kids love their parents but when they mess up they are afraid of their parents, I think there is something to say about putting the fear in your kids. There is a lot of stuff I never did because my Dad made it clear that if I did, I was busted in a big way. Claire Huxable can just look at her kids in a way and they know they better watch out. Yet, they still come to them with problems and are honest with their parents.
- I love how the parents both have full time careers but there is always a hot meal on the table and everyone chips in. I love that Cliff values that his wife works outside of the home and values that she is a great cook and mother. We live in a different world today where staying at home full time is very difficult but it is good to know that as a team, you can still sit down to the table as a family.
- I love how Mr. & Mrs. Huxtable are calm and rational with their kids. There was an episode the other night where they found a joint in Theo's text book, they never ran up to his room and starting yelling at him and sent him to drug treatment. They questioned him about it and Theo said it was not his so the parents just dropped it and said how much they loved him and that they were proud of him for not doing drugs. Theo still was not happy with that, he found out who put it in his textbook and made that boy come over to his house to confess this to Dr. Huxtable because Theo wanting to clear his name. Theo never wanted to disappoint his parents and worked hard to gain a respect from his parents. I don't see that often enough, I often see these brat kids in target talking to their parents like they were some kind of idiot. As Claire would say: "I brought you in this world and I will take you out!!!"
- I love how the kids lean on each other for help or guidance. Whether it be Denise helping Vanessa to hide a pimple or Theo asking Denise to make a shirt for him that ended up being a huge hit at school.
- I love that Claire and Cliff are so in love and they keep fun and exciting, he is always chasing her, they also never go to bed angry.
- I love how Cliff meets all the kids friends and takes time to make sure they are good kids before he lets them spend so much time with his children, this does not happen enough these days.
- I love the humor in this family, there is always laughter and it is not sarcasm. I love how they play tricks on each other and some times even use humor as a way to teach a lesson. (The best has to be either when they teach Theo a lesson on money and turn the house into a rental property and make Theo pay rent or when they are trying to teach Vanessa about not drinking and do the drinking game with little Rudy and later she finds out the hard liquor they are all taking shots of is tea, GOOOD STUFFFFF)

Cosby's: Thanks for being such a great show to watch, you make me a better person and I can't say that about any other show I watch!
The End

Are diamonds really a girls best friend?

2008-09-23T13:29:00.001-07:00

mmmm, I do love the bling but what do I love more:

Pan friend chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy!! Mom, thanks so much for making all my dreams come true, this meal hit the spot!! Not sure if I loved it more because comfort food is my main craving these days or if I would have been this excited about it pregnant or not pregnant ;)

I had been looking forward to this meal for about two weeks and I was finally able to make myself borderline sick on it this past Saturday. I am pretty sure I had four helpings of mashed potatoes!! Nice, I am so lady like ;)

Back with a bun in the oven

2008-09-09T14:43:00.000-07:00

Hey there,

did you all miss me??? I have been in "event mode" for the last month and a half and just could not find time to blog. A lot has gone on in the last month (celebrated my 5 year anniversary with my main man and planning Treads and Threads, my biggest event of the year).

The best part has been sharing with friends and family of our recent news of getting ready to welcome Baby Wiese into the world around February 16th of 2009. Yes, it has been a long time coming and we are finally on our way to jumping into parenthood (ahhh crap, what have we done). ;)

Just to put your mind at ease here are just a few things you will not see on my blog moving forward:

1.) Nude stomach pictures, sorry boys, I know you think it is hot but I am not going to do it.

2.) Every day posts about my pregnancy or children. Yes, this baby is an exciting part of my life but it does not define me. Not to worry, I still plan to blog about plenty of other things besides just my kids.

3.) New born pictures with mucus on them. That makes me throw up in my mouth a bit so I will be sure to not post a picture of this kid until a spit bath has taken place.

I also thought I would not only show my progress on getting preggers and fat but also show Brett's progress. Brett has not been eating as many bagels, bowls of honey nut Cheerios at 3am and he has not taken as many pounds of red meat as I have so he is having a hard time keeping up but I will let you watch the progress:

dirt to darn awesome!

2008-07-31T06:37:00.000-07:00

Since we have moved into our new digs last month, our dog has been having a hay day in the flower beds that have been filled with dirt/mud. I am not sure why the people before us never planted anything but I was getting pretty tired of looking at it and of cleaning Debo's paws. My older brother, Matt (my new hero by the way) helped me out by giving me some simple ideas on what to plant and since he works at a plant/tree nursery he helped me save some money as well.

Last night Matt came over with all the plants and got me started on how to plant everything. I kinda think sons of farmers are the best because they have a wealth of knowledge and the are the hardest workers I know. Matt is like a machine when he starts working and I LOVE IT!!!! He just started digging holes and throwing them in there to get me started by he really did one whole flower bed and a couple pants in another flower bed. After Matt left I had not planned to do all of this alone since Brett had a business dinner but Matt's work ethic inspired me to get working. So, I decided to just knock this project out last night, I finished spreading the mulch right before dark. Here are some before and after pictures. ;)

I still have some round up to do and planting some ground cover so is it not so muddy back there but it looks so much better than it did. Brett is a great lawn boy, as most of you know, so I know he is going to have this yard in tip top shape by next summer. I don't have any before pictures to show you but I can tell you that the plants were all there but they were surrounded by weeds in another part of our yard that Brett and I worked on this past weekend. Matt taught us how to put the edging in and it looks so much better than it did. This was one of the few home projects where Brett and I didn't get in a little fight so we were feeling pretty good about ourselves.

Matt, a shout out to you, thanks a million for helping us so much with our back yard, it looks so much better and I owe you big time!!!!! Love you!

another great find on the C list

2008-07-24T13:57:00.000-07:00

Ahh, yet again, I find another good deal on Craigslist. Brett and I saw this armoire at Nebraska Furniture Mart (I hate NFM but I liked the armorie, minus the light house they show in this picture) a few weeks back. I found the same armorie from a girl who just bought it but wanted a bigger desk, so we got the desk for over half the originally price and it was already put together. Thank you Craigslist for coming through again!!! Now the office is nice and organized and I can close the doors anytime to make that room into a guest bedroom.

Lets see what else I have been searching for:

-large indoor Plants

-Free Weights with a bench

-Nice metal shelves for bathroom closet

-Lamps

-Two leather chair set

- Sectional couch for the basement

- A jig saw

- A swing for the back tree

I am sure I will come up with more. I am obsessed!!!

Girls Weekend in Nebraska

2008-07-22T09:53:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my sister (Callie) and my mom and I traveled to Seward, Nebraska to visit my older sister Carrie. Carrie has lived here for a couple years and I had never visited so it was high time we took a road trip.

It was great to get out of the city and see all the tall green corn and just enjoy the small town feel. I love KC and where we live but it is nice to not lock your car, be able to see the full moon and stars and just be around good ole' small town folks.

We got there friday night and Carrie made a a great meal, Carrie is a wonderful cook so it was pretty stinking exciting. Oh, I also had to do a little fashion show, these boots were really comfortable, I may have to invest in some. Carrie married a cowboy so they house is cowboy theme, I could not help myself when I saw all the dress up fun I could have.

Saturday we went to the cutest little cafe for breakfast and the food was wonderful. It was so fun to observe locals reading the paper and chatting with everyone since they pretty much knew everyone. We then went to Lincoln (just 2o minutes away) to shop around and hang out. I have to say I think I liked Seward more than I liked Lincoln, it kinda seemed a little deserted, maybe because the college kids are gone for the summer, not sure. We did go to this cool antquie mall and I got a globe and could have gotten a lot more. We only got through half of this store because it had so much stuff, I shall return. After a stop at DQ for a star we headed back home to rest for a bit and get ready to go to a rodeo that Jeremy (Carrie's husband) was team roping in that night.

The rodeo was pretty fun and it was great to see Jeremy in action, he did such a great job!!! I would have to say the bad part about the rodeo was when one of the horses has a heart attack and died right there on the spot. As some of you know, I am not even a fan of horses but I had to hold back tears. I could not believe this horse was just going to die right there on the spot. Carrie said it was pretty rare that something like that would happen but it was really sad. On a different note, I was entertained by an activity they do for the kids at this rodeo which is to ride on lambs. At first I didn't think there was any harm in this but when I saw the first kid coming out on this lamb that was about to run into a fence I had to cover my eyes. Kids were falling off these things and were inches from being trapled by a lamb, I am still considering calling social services and complainning about this activity. :) It looked pretty dangerous for a 4 year old to be doing, I can see a 8 year old being ok but there were some kids doing this that looked like they could still be in diapers. Anyway, stupid activiy but entertaining non the less.

Sunday we just went to church and lunch with Carrie and Jeremy and headed home. It was a great trip to be with the girls and Jeremy of course ;) You can check out more pics of our trip on my slide show to the left ;)

A shout out: Carrie and Jeremy, thanks again for having us in your home and taking such great care of us. You did a great job of treating us and making us feel welcome. Love you both!

A visit from the popcorn queen

2008-07-17T14:31:00.001-07:00

So, my little sister (Callie) has pretty much grown up on popcorn (maybe that is how she stays so thin). I am telling you, as long as I can remember from childhood, this girl could eat a whole bag of popcorn by herself and loved it every time (even if it was once or twice a day). Callie would have popcorn pretty often back in the day but since college I would say she is on the "popcorn everyday plan". She was really big into the microwave popcorn but in the last year she has started making her own popcorn.

Callie got a stove top popcorn popper that you stir with the handle and this girl has perfected the art of popcorn making. She adds only a certain amount of oil, butter and salt to go on a certain amount of popcorn. You know how you can get it too salty or too much butter, not this girl, PERFECT!!!!

Yesterday Callie agreed to stop by and make me her famous popcorn along with a cold coke (or Coca cola Classic as the popcorn queen says). It was the best and hit the spot, thanks Callie!!!! You can come over anytime and make it again.

Birthday weekend update

2008-07-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

Update:

Birthday Dinner: EBT Restaurant, I had lamb chops, mashed garlic potatoes and asparagus. Lime sorbet for dessert.

Birthday gifts: Brett gave me a shopping spree to Nordstom's (not sure if I want shoes, makeup or a hot pair of jeans). I recieved lots of cash, not sure yet what I want to spend it on but I sure lot it that I have a little stash. I got a couple gift cards, a book (Wicked), a wonderful picture for my kitchen taken by my good friend Donna and lots of wonderful cards, flowers and even balloons. I also had breakfast and lunch on good friends of mine, thanks for taking me out peeps!!

I also had a semi-surprise (found out from my good friend David on Thursday night on accident I think) birthday party. It consists of Cherry Pie, smores, friends and lots of cute kids!!! It was a great time.

Thanks all for making my birthday such a special day!

7-11: B-day

2008-07-11T08:50:00.000-07:00

Today I am 27 years of age, how does it feel you ask? Not to much different than 26. I am normally really high maintenance about my birthday but this year, I almost forgot about it this year. I think a mixture of moving into the new digs and just being busy with work, I really just forgot it. I really have no clue what Brett got me this year, I kinda hope he does not use the excuse that the house was my birthday gift, I don't think he will. Brett might be the best gift giver I know so I am really looking forward to it ;)

Really my only request this year has been this:

yes, it is an apricot pie. Not many people know about the apricot pie but it is yummy!! I was not feeling cake this year, the problem is that my grandma strahm makes the best one so it is hard to live up to it so I may just settle for a cherry pie from The Upper Crust (best pies in KC if you ask me).

Besides "doing some pie" (this is what my Dad says when he means, eating pie) I think just relaxing this weekend is my request. We have kinda been so busy with house stuff that I have not had a chance to really take a good nap with my beagle or cook a nice meal in the new home so maybe I will try to do that.

Anyway, I will have to update you on monday on how the birthday weekend went!

Thanks all for your birthday wishes and cards so far. I do love all the attention ;) hee hee.

2008-07-07T07:45:00.000-07:00

What a great weekend full of friends, sunshine, fireworks, great summer food and relaxing. Brett and I headed to our friends farm house near Wichita on Friday to celebrate July 4th weekend (one of my favorite holidays next to Easter).

Top 5 things I loved about this trip:

- The summer food: I adore watermelon, chips, brats, pasta salad, puppy chow, and seven layer dip! Oh Baby, bring it on!!

- The small town feel: I love how simple life seems to be out in the country near a small town. I loved that at the local fireworks show on Friday night, all the kids were lighting fireworks (some dangerous ones) off up until the show started. You don't see that in KC.

- Watching my dog in Heaven: I often feel bad that Debo does not go out to my Dad's farm more often, he loves to get into all kinds of trouble. Debo has been sleeping non-stop since we got home.

- Spending time with friends: It is always great to spend time with friends and meet new friends. Laughing with friends around the table has to be one of my favorite things.

- Summer Sun: I love being by the pool and reading some trash magazines and sipping on some cold ice tea with lemon. The smell of sunscreen is the best and becoming a bronze beauty is not so bad either.

Check out the pictures of our trip on my slide show to the left!!

Special thanks: Jack and Mindy, thanks so much for having us out, can't wait to go back!!!

Craigslist, the best list of all.

2008-06-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

Several years ago we had some friends tell us they were selling their honda on Craigslist and I really had no clue what they were talking about but just didn't really care to much to research it. Then a couple months later another friend found an apartment on Craigslist and again I was confused. What in the world was this list, who is Craig and where could I find this list? Yes, I am kinda behind the times I guess because apparently everyone has been using craigslist for like 5 years. I just started using it last week when I was looking for a few things for the new digs. This table is brand new in the box and is originally $1,499.00, the seller was asking $600 and I got it for $450 last night plus free delivery (eat your heart out Nebraska Furniture Mart)!!!
Sweet Hots!!!! What will I find next? This might be better than estate sales (sorry Kerry, Andrea and Sarah ;)

Mov'in Out, Mov'in On.

2008-06-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago Brett and I thought we would put our house up on the market to see if we had any takers. I know it sounds weird just to throw your house on the market for no reason but I was getting pretty tired of having get togethers and being smashed like sardines. I was also getting frustrated that we were not able to sit down at a table when having more than two people over at one time. We figured we didn't have anything to lose so we would just try it out.

So, after 60 some days of being on the market and over 40 showings, we sold our house!!!

It is not fun keeping your house spotless every day and not even being able to leave a couple dishes in the sink but I think it all paid off once we sold our house for just under what we asked for it. (Guess the market is not that bad in KC after all).
So it was a little stressful to sell a house but buying a new one in record time is a little bit more stressful. We knew it was a great time to buy with interest rates being low and with a lot being on the market for a good price. So, we looked and looked and found a great house, put a bid in and didn't get it. We were pretty bummed about that house but began the search again. After driving our realtor crazy (we are kinda picky and can't make up our minds) we finally found a great home for us!!

The goal was to upgrade just a bit as far as space, stay no more than 15 minutes from work and find something as close to move in ready as possible. We said we wanted to move just a little bit more south and we only got about 10 blocks south ;)

We move in June 21st and we would love all of you to stop by and say hi!! (We are just off of 57th and Roe).

Happy Birthday Little Sister

2008-06-05T07:35:00.001-07:00

Callie,

Have a great day!!!!!! Happy Birthday!

"About the Vacation"

2008-05-30T13:28:00.000-07:00

So, many of you have been emailing me asking me about the trip to Cabo, Mexico. I hate to report that it might have been the worst vacation Brett and I have taken. Don't get me wrong, it was still time away from work and time together so it was great in that sense. Here are some
highs and lows of this trip. Please notice there were many more lows and I would say they were some low low's ;)

The Lows:
- As you may notice I always post a picture with my blog posts and I don't have one for this post because my camera was stolen/lost the last day in Cabo. The upside is that is was not my "nice" camera from my Dad. But I did just get this one from Brett for Christmas and I have no
documentation that we every even went on this vacation. Actually, maybe that is a good thing...
- Brett being sick pretty much the first two days and then him being stuffed up with snot the rest of the trip. The other low to that is that I can't stand snot and loogies so I would almost gag every time he would sniff, cough or clear his throat. The goal is to be attractive on vacation not repulsing your spouse ;) Poor Brett.
- Brett not covering his whole foot in sun screen and getting third degree burns and blisters all over his foot, he was barely able to walk with shoes on for two days.
- Cost of eating was outrageous for sub par food. Brett got a milk shake for $8, come on!!!!
- I didn't get ice-cream everyday because of the cost, I am way to cheap to spend that kind of money on ice-cream (the high of this is I got a whole gallon when I got home and have been eating it every night ;)
- Brett having major stomach cramps on the plane ride home and having the sharts/shats once we got home. (if you know what sharts are then you know that there was a mess involved).
- Vikkie having the shats pretty much the whole time in Mexico, the plus was at least I was regular.
- Getting my small swiss army knife taken from me in the Mexico airport because I forgot to take it off my keychain. I almost hate flying these days, no customer service and it takes so much time.
And a drum role please........ Just when you think things can't get worse:

- I was not feeling good the night before we left but I thought I had made myself sick because I could not find my camera. We got to the airport two hours before our flight and it was hotter than Hades in that airport. When it was time to finally board the plan, I got in line and started to feel dizzy as I slowing collapsed on the ground. I passed out for a couple seconds and then immediately threw up all over the floor in front of hundreds of vacationers and then twice more in the trash can that Brett found. As I was on the floor sweating and feeling much better at this point. I see this Mexican standing above me trying to get me to get in a wheel chair and saying "You are in no condition to get on this flight, you can not fly like this". I was thinking "the hell
I am not getting on this plane, I want out of here". So, I talked himinto it and we were the last ones to board the plane, I was not staying in Cabo for one more hour. It had already taken to much from me. I was not going to give it 5 more hours of my life.

Highs:
- Seeing/talking to former KU and present NBA player Nick Collison in
the Cabo, Mexico Wal-Mart.
- Not waking up until at least 10am everyday.
- Finishing a book which I have not done in like two years (thanks Mindy, that book was so good).
- Zip lining over the dessert...it was pretty great and now I really want to do more extreme things like this.
- Being called honeymooners the whole trip.
- All the Mexicans pronounced our last name correctly.
- Staying in a premium resort where golf carts took you everywhere and there were great ocean views
- Laying out at the pool eating Nutter Butters and sipping margaritas.
- The shower...it was out of this world! I hate taking showers normally but I took up to three showers a day at this place.

In conclusion, I don't know that I would recommend Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. You can have wonderful relaxing trips right here in the US of A!! The end.