9/30/08

costume swap?

I have a couple custumes we may not be using this year and am looking for something for Kacey to wear for Halloween. I already bought the other 3 their costumes, but still need something for her. Thinking of Tinkerbell or something.

Anyone want to borrow/swap either of these costumes?


ballroom gown


Hello Kitty witch costume, includes hat, cape and dress.....size sm. 4-6


Elmo Costume. It spells Elmo on the chest. Size 18-24 mo.

Temple...

In attempt to make it to the temple every week in october...

Is anybody willing to do some babysitting trading?
days...evenings...saturdays?

9/29/08

Recommendation anyone?

I was hoping if anyone has a good recommendation for a physician that treats adults to please send it our way, of course he or she doesn't have to be as cute as Mr. McDreamy from Grey's Anatomy but we aren't happy with our doctor right now and woul like a recommendation elsewhere.


9/25/08

Something About Tricia You May or May Not Know

I was a BYU baby (#2 of 4 kids) but our family moved around and eventually to St. Louis, Missouri when I was about 4 yrs. old. I fell off my bunk bed at age 5 - got a concussion, and fractured my neck trying to do acrobatic things when I was 9.

kindergarten 1st grade

We moved to Chandler in the middle of my 7th grade year, which was scary, but turned out to be a good move for us in the end. I was the “new girl” and had lots of boys after me. I'm thankful I always knew the church was true growing up. My family had some trials as we all do…my parents had a business that didn’t work out, and we suffered financially and emotionally because of the stress. I learned a lot about going without, although were always fine thanks to my Grandparents who helped us out. My Grandpa started teaching me violin when I was in 3rd grade and he and my Grandma paid for my private lessons when my parents couldn’t (which was always-).

8th grade, how high can I get those bangs?

I was of course in orchestra my whole schooling, and I felt happy there. It was really the only thing I did really well. (besides kissing but that’s nothing to brag about now right?) My high school (Dobson) had the best orchestra in the state, and it wasn’t just a bunch of nerds. Or so we thought anyway :) My life changed just before 11th grade when the ASU viola professor became my viola teacher. He challenged me to practice 3 hours a day that summer, and I did.


senior (do I look like Mona Lisa? ...braces..)

I was able to get a full scholarship to ASU and became a music education major. It was an intense 4 years of too many credit hours, and trying to have a dating life at the same time. I finally met Duane in May before my senior year through friends at the MCC ward (the guys were too old at ASU). We just kept running into each other, and had so much in common. I had finally found my perfect match!


engagement sorry this is fuzzy?!

I always wanted a husband who loved hiking, and enjoyed sitting through orchestra concerts too! My Dad was scout master my whole life, so that’s why I like hiking I guess. (Funny that Duane has been in scouts our whole marriage almost.) We got married the following March 7, 1998 on a very windy day.

attack of the dress!

Unfortunately we didn’t have a lot to pay a good photographer and only had him scheduled for outside the temple after the ceremony. :( I charged my own dress, and Duane and I enjoyed our first 2 years in our 1 bedroom apartment in the ghetto on Mill and Southern. He changed from being an architect major, thinking about being a chiropractor, to finally a civil engineer in our first year. I taught strings, played weddings and helped get us through his schooling. My summers were spent getting my Masters in viola performance. We had our first of 3 babies after 3 years of marriage and it’s been pretty much insane ever since!
Audrey 7, Annelise 5 and Sadie 3

We especially loved our time in San Tan Ranch and will never forget the friends we have made there.

Some Things I have done: hiked and slept at the bottom of Grand Canyon, been in a Tostitos Fiesta bowl commercial (ok, just in the cheering crowd) I made $75.00 and for a split second...was on tv. I worked at a movie theatre, and Burger King (for 3 horrible months) when a teen. Been to almost every Depeche Mode concert here since I was 14 (5 or so), also The Cure twice, Dave Mathews Band twice, Live, Duran Duran, and Morissey, but no I was no "mod"

Likes: sweets, dark chocolate,vacations ,hiking, snowskiing ,pilates, and other excercising although not always, and bargain shopping....

Dislikes: this could be long….ketchup, mustard, mayo,cream cheese, CHEESECAKE, pickles, fighting kids, giving birth w/ no epidural(2 times), people dying…ok maybe that’s getting too deep

The MUST HAVE in the kitchen: The giant roll of professional quality plastic wrap from Costco. Nothing else works and I’ve had mine for like 4 years, no joke. Now that’s a bargain!

Tricia

This picture is really bad of me but good of Duane. He hates smiling for pictures. He usually does the Chandler Bing- for you freinds fans.



Next time lets hear from Debbie Wallace!

9/23/08

Adventure of the Week - Makatu Island

Makutu's Island is a 20,000 square foot, multi-level indorr playground. Made for children and adults (yes, you can play too). Their family center will more than impress you.
Makutu's Island is a shoeless environment-socks must be worn.
Hours: Mon-thurs 10:00-7:00 Fri & Sat 10:00-9:00, Sun 10:00-7:00
Prices $3.00 adults (18 and older), $7.00 children
6919 W Ray rd., Chandler, AZ
480-893-0106



Twilight Garb

I had to laugh when I saw these but I can't help but want one for myself.
I must restrain myself, lol
You can purchase them at whippycake.blogspot.com

9/18/08

Spotlight continues

Who is this Brownie? Yes, it is me Kelly Blackham.

One of my (not so good class) pictures. I think this is 4 grade. Yes I actually had curls in my hair, naturally. I am the youngest of 3 kids and the only girl. My brothers would say I was spoiled, but I don't think so. My dad was in the air force so we moved about every 3 years. I have lived in D.C., Colorado, Nebraska, Germany, Nevada and Arizona. I was a pretty innocent kid up till high school. I just don't know what happens when kids hit that time. Lets jump forward and learn some more.





Me in my skinnier days. Yep, in high school (weren't we all). I did love my dad just wouldn't admit for a couple more years. For not growing up in the church I was pretty lucky to have the same parents I was born with. High School, High school, were should I begin. For the good part: I was a good student always keeping a b average. I played volleyball for 3 years, and cheer for 1 semester. I got my first job at Bank of America shortly after turning 16 plus my brothers hand me down car. I still thought I was cool, because I had a car at 16. For the juicy stuff: I started dating way to early about 15, without my parents knowing (later they found out). I was engaged at 16, to who I thought was the love of my life. Ended up just being a totally jerk who abused me. I dated my far share of losers as my dad would call them. I wonder why I did not like my dad, but boy was he right. We moved to Arizona shortly after I graduated.

After moving to Arizona I started CGCC and was still working at Bank of America. My mom got a job in the cash balancing which was up stairs where I worked at the branch. I would go up and visit her from time to time and would always notice this guy. So my mom gave him my phone number and it took him 2 weeks to call. Our first date was cancelled because his pregnant sister had gotten in a car accident. Yes, I am talking about Jeremy. By the time we finally had our first date, it had to be good right. Wrong. I guess he did not know how picky of an eater I was and he had ordered a Greek salad. Then we went and saw Excess Baggage. But it was love at first sight. Our first date was Sept 3rd, we were engaged by Thanksgiving and married that following May. School stopped shortly there after, 3 class away from my AA.

I thought this would be the wedding of my dreams, I had the dress and the guy. We'll the day before my wedding my brother signed his divorce papers (she was suppose to be in the wedding). My soon to be sister in laws (to say it nicely) weren't thrilled to be there. I don't think I saw them smile once the whole wedding. We were married by a Mormon Bishop. It was his first time doing a non-member wedding and he was totally nervous. We did not even recite our vows. It is so true how fast the day goes by you. I wish I could have remembered more. I LOVED my dress and I LOVED my husband.



After being married for about 1 1/2 years we decided it was time to try and have some babies. Well 2 years and 6 miscarriages later we had Brody. We found out later that my body does not produce enough progesterone in the first stage of pregnancy and had to be on suppositories for the first 3 months of each pregnancy. Brody was 26 hour labor with pain medicine. We still joke that he is a mommy's boy to this day. So anyways. I did not go back on birth control because it took so long the first time. Well on Brody's first birthday I found out I was pregnant with Allie. She was all of 2 hours from the 1st contraction and because I went so quick I had her all natural (NOT BY CHOICE). I was not the best pregnant person so 8 weeks later I had my tubes tied. I still sometimes wish to have another baby. That's why I babysit babies.
We never went to church and moved quite often (5 houses in 10 years). But we now know why we are in this house. About 1 year ago, I told Jeremy that I thought we should start going to church (boy was he shocked) and 2 months later I was baptised. I have met some wonderful friends through the church and hope to meet more. I can't say it is easy being the only Mormon on my side of the family but I think it has made my immediate family stronger. This December we will be sealed as a family in the temple.



Some of my dislikes are: people who lie, rude people, a messy house, the smell of sweaty kids and cooking dinner.



Some of my loves: My kids, hanging out with the girls, scrapbooking or doing crafts, baking and volunteering in my kids classrooms.

My dream job (if I could go back and finish school) would be a nurse. For now I am a mommy.




There is so much more to me. But not the kind of stuff to post on the internet. So you will just have to talk to me to find out.

NEXT WEEK LETS HEAR FROM TRICIA DANA






I miss Spotlight Fridays

Debbie M. we still want to hear from you when you get the chance, we know life gets busy but I would love to hear from Kelly Blackham to get the ball rolling again for spotlight Fridays.

And for you lurkers and bloggers out there, you know who you are, get a blog account and let me know so I can add you and spotlight you too. I'm sure that sounds real enticing now huh.

9/17/08

Friday's Playgroup in the Park

Playgroup in the Park starts this Friday
at the Train Park
at 9:00 am
See you there and spread the news.

9/16/08

Adventure of the Week - Celebrate Constitution Week


Have fun and learn about America's rich history at Constitution Week, a series of events that celebrates one of the world's most important documents. The week long series of events culminates with a Constitution Fair on Saturday September 20. The event is free and open to the public.

The fair features historical characters in costume and a re-enacted signing of the Constitution and so much more check it out.

When: Saturday, September 20
Where: Highland High School
4301 E. Guadalupe road
Cost: Free
Info:www.constitution weekusa.com

9/11/08

Playgroup in the Park

Look how cool this playground is, or scary? but the park next to us is just as good right?

The weather is getting cooler and I think it would be fun to start playgroup in the park again. The kids have time to play outside and the women have time to chat. Even if you don't have children who are young come along.

I was hoping either Mondays, Tuesdays or Fridays at 9:00.

Let me know what works for you and spread the word.

Call Me Crazy

But I'm already thinking of Halloween costumes this time of year. I was getting my fall decorations out and noticed the costumes from the years in the past and thought I could share the wealth. If anyone would like to save money this year and borrow them please give me a call if you are interested.

0-12 month green pea pod
12 month Nemo
18 month ladybug
3-4 Raggedy Ann with the cutest wig
3-4 Cars Pit Crewmen
3-4 Fireman Costume
4-5 Dragon

9/10/08

Walking Group

Anyone interested in getting together and walking can meet at the park on Napa & Wildhorse weekday mornings a little after 9am. Just put your little ones (if you have any) in a stroller and we'll walk and talk for a mile or two!

9/9/08

20-40% Savings

A few Linens-N-Things around the valley are closing their stores and its a great time to take advantage of their store sales where everything in the store is at
least 20-40% off!!
The one right off Gilbert road is closing and you can find some great deals
  • like the Nate Berkus line of towels, soft big and absorbent for $7.50.
  • stock up on sheets and bedding at 20%
  • find an excuse to finally buy that kitchen gadget you've always been wanting
  • redecorate your bathroom

Go now where there is more variety

9/8/08

Adventure of the Week - The Great Outdoors

Today, American families spend more than 90% of their time inside. Sometimes being in natural setting can be more health advantageous than being indoors. Seek out nature, Enjoy the view from the mountain top, water or desert plains while getting a great workoutand spending time with your family.

So now that the weather is getting cooler do you have plans for camping?

http://www.lovetheoutdoors.com/

is a helpful website and can give you just about everything you need to knowabout planning your trip. They list private campgrounds , state park campgrounds, national park campgrounds, camp sites, rv campgrounds, parks and resorts.

They have camp songs, camping checklists, and camping cooking information. What else could you need?

Camping Arizona by Bruce Gibbs is another great resource to refer to. It is a concise, easy to use guide to the public campgrounds in Arizona.

Alright, dish it out, where are your favorite camping spots and fun traditions when you go camping?

9/7/08


Here is something that could be fun for the little ones. Hopefully by then it will start to cool off. My kids always loved all of the Fisher Price toys. Here's the website if you need some more info.


Join us on Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28 for the Fisher-Price Play Weekend! Fisher-Price will be having a fun super-sized playpen event from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day to kick off our new partnership. The super-sized play area is filled with the coolest new toys from Fisher-Price like the Diego Rescue Railway, Spike the Ultra Dinosaur, and the Loving Family™ Grand Dollhouse. Special treats include a Power Wheels™ driving track, featuring the awesome, new Power Wheels™ A.T. Rex™ and Color Me Gemz™ vanity station for kids to design their very own Gemz heart necklace to take home! Planet Heroes™ friends, “Ace™”, and “Digger™”, will be here Saturday and Diego, from Nick Jr.™ on Sunday for special appearances and photo opportunities. Ideal for kids under 6 years old, and a wild time for the whole family! A gift bag with activity booklet and a DVD will be given to each child visiting the play area. Activities are included with daytime admission and free for Phoenix Zoo Members. Be sure and check out the new Fisher-Price® Little People® Discovery Farm™ play space coming late October. It will be a fabulous play date spot for your little ones! See you at the Phoenix Zoo,Your friends at Fisher-Price

9/2/08

Gold Canyon



I am having a Gold Canyon candle "catalog" party for the next week or so. That means I am not having an actual party. I will have candle samples at my house, along with new catalogs. There are all the Fall and Holiday scents available now! I love stocking up on candles this time of year and getting ready for Fall. I love the Fall time of year! If any of you want to order a candle or two, call or email me, or leave a comment and I will hook you up! Thanks!
Tina


Adventure of the Week - Out of Africa Wildlife Park

I decided to feature Out of Africa Wildlife Park this week because in in the mail is a coupon for Buy 1 regular price admission and get a 2nd admission for FREE! Join their mailing list on their website and you get $2 off your admission as well.

You can find the coupon in the envelope coupon sense and it expires October 13, 2008.


So, beat the heat and head on over to Out of Africa Wildlife Park. Just 90 min N. of Phoenix, 25 min. S. of Sedona in Camp Verde from I-17 exit 287 (hwy 260) west 3- miles, follow signs.
Open Wednesday to Sunday, 9:30 to 5 pm.

What to Expect:

  • Authentic African Safari
  • People and animals together
  • Different species cohabitating
  • Tigers hunting people and toys
  • Animals close up
  • Natural habitats
  • Entertaining, educational, unrehearsed shows
  • Gift shop with African artifacts and gifts
  • Good food available
Check out their website at http://www.outofafricapark.com/ for show schedules and if you've been here please share your experience.