Living Life with Spice

Mrs. Spice Has Gone Country! Well....actually...she just moved there...

2011-03-02T07:34:00.000-07:00

Please join me at my new blog...

MRS. SOUTHERN SPICE

And....Then....Sometimes.....The Show is Over....

2010-09-27T08:58:00.001-07:00

It's obvious....that this blog has come to it's natural end. I may begin a new blog...and if I do I will post the link here. But for now...this blog is over. There are so many new and exciting things going on in our family that a simple blog post just can't handle it all. :-)

For now...you can stay connected to me by email....Facebook or heck....call me! :-)

Blessings and Love to you all.

Mrs. Spice

The Show Must Go On....

2010-04-23T12:18:00.002-07:00

Most of Foster Care is a hurry up.....and wait game. You are hurried through the licensing process with visions and stories of abandoned, frightened, needy children filling your head. Then....once licensed...you run smack dab into the harsh reality....that you aren't needed....quite as much as you were told you were. Once the reality of the situation wears off....you almost crave the "waiting" times. The times of quiet...where you get to reclaim your house, clean it really well....and get back to your old routines. But you are always waiting...expecting a phone call....that will bring new adventures and children to your home.

Our next adventure with FC began months ago when we were approached and asked to be apart of a new, never before tried program. We climbed aboard immediately. The program has do to with one of the local Native American tribes. And all though I don't think mentioning the tribe would break confidentiality....I am not going to....just in case. So up until now....the children of this particular tribe that are pulled from their homes, abandoned, or placed into FC have been living in a shelter. This shelter opened in 1981. The goal is...to select a few foster homes, train them culturally about the tribe....and transition these children into the homes. I cannot express how neat of an opportunity this is. We could possible be the first foster family to ever, EVER be placed with a child from this tribe. It is absolutely amazing.

We have been matched with 1 of 2 infants. There is a 3 month old and a 4 month old that need homes. We aren't sure which one will be placed with us yet. We have been to the shelter twice to visit them. They are adorable! Sweet faces with huge mops of black hair!

When will we get one of these babies? Good question. Everything is new. This has never been done before. These kids do not fall under DES...they are managed by Tribal Social Services (TSS). And since TSS has never placed one of their children in an outsider's home.....new processes need to be put into place.....and feelings need to be reassured. First, a TSS worker will come to our home, inspect it and meet us. We will woo her over with our charming good looks and Mr. Spice's Baby Whisperer techniques....and then she will transition the baby to our home.

It's exciting to be a part of this new program. There are a lot of details to the program which I will go into another post. But for now....we are waiting with excitement over receiving our baby!!!

Oh, I know you will ask. Can we one day adopt these kids? No. Legally, these kids are not available for adoption by anyone who is not a tribe member. Who knows...maybe if this program is successful.....that could change in 5 or 10 years. But there is a lot of work that has to be done first.

First...I have to remember how to make formula bottles and strap an infant in a car seat. :-)

Neeeexxxxxxt!!!!

2010-04-06T17:05:00.003-07:00

This afternoon our foster kids went home. And even though I cannot tell you the details of why or how they came into our care....I can tell you this....that they are exactly where they belong. They are in the process of being adopted into a wonderful family. I was able to meet their adoptive Mom this morning and she is great. She is so invested in her kids, it's great.

Last Wednesday night, in a Circle K parking lot....we picked up these kids from the backseat of a CPS workers car. And for 7 days we got to love on them, nurture and comfort them. And today....without one single tear in my eye.....we got to send them home. Sure, I will miss them a little. I will miss the busyness. I will miss the baby resting her tired head on my shoulder and asking for a hug. But they are exactly where they need to be....with their Mom and Dad....their forever family. And now, we get to help the next kid that needs us. This is the best part of the job....we get to love kids, have fun.....give them back....get a break.....and get more kids! It's the best job in the world! It's not hard at all. You should try it. Seriously, it's rainbows and unicorns...all.the.time! Okay, there might be one or two hard times....but then Care Bears come down from above and rescue you!

Actually, I have a whole story about the next kid that is coming into our care. I can already tell you who they are going to be!! It's exciting. But not now. I have barely slept in 7 days....must take a break....process, debrief....and come back tomorrow with details.

Thank you for the texts, emails, support and COFFEE!!! Love you all.

Welcome to the lions den...

2010-04-03T15:29:00.004-07:00

When we decided to become foster parents, we knew we had a lot of concerns on how we would do. But the thing is...you can't be sure...until you throw yourself in....and experience it. And so we have.

Currently, we are caring for two children....who are in respite. Anytime a foster family cares for another family's foster child, it is respite....kind of like babysitting. They are with us temporarily, for an unknown period of time. We thought they were going home Friday, now we think they are going home next Tuesday. Talk to me Tuesday....and I'll let you know when they are really going home. :-)

We are not set up for taking siblings long term. We just don't have a house that supports having multiple children of different genders with different sleeping needs who are different ages. Get it? :-) AZ law in regards to foster children states that children of different genders cannot share a room, even siblings. And...we only have one bedroom dedicated to kids and Asha's room. So...we are all making it work right now....but we are working with CPS to reunify these kids as soon as possible with their adoptive family.

I feel terrible because many, many people want to know the details of how the kids came into our care. Heck, I would! But unfortunately, we are just not at liberty to share. The story and details belong to these kids, and to share it...well, that would be sharing information that could essentially be damaging long term. Or, super, super awkward when you see them at the mall and know them and their story. :-)

We are certainly having an interesting time. I fell right back into my old social worker ways....and it feels very natural. Dealing with CPS...is what it always is....like a box of chocolates....and sometimes....really great. I love our current CPS case manager. I have spoken with detectives, therapists, case managers, crisis specialists, stabilization specialists, etc... Every experience has been great so far. It's neat to have a team of people join together with the sole purpose of making this family as successful as possible. I love it. Honestly speaking, from my own experience, I know....this team like situation...will not always be the case.

The biggest adjustment for Mr. Spice and I? Going from parenting an independent, super easy 5 year old.....to parenting 3 kids. Some of which may or may not have some challenging behaviors. Our quiet, easy going routine has quickly, within minutes turned upside down and sideways. We are sleep deprived and a little dazed....but loving all of it. We both feel like we were meant to do this. Yes, there are some big adjustments and major sacrifices, but isn't that what serving is all about? What is serving without sacrifice? Nothing. So we have no complaints. We signed up for anything.....and we will take what we get and work with it. Love that we get to foster!

Our 4 year old foster boy just let me know that my 10 minute break is over and I have to help him play. Done. Here we go...

I'm in love with two men. Equally...

2010-02-06T20:58:00.002-07:00

Seriously. I've been in love with Oscar since I could sit through a feature film.....which....was pretty early on. Mr. Spice knew about Oscar when we met. And...he was prepared to sacrifice the part of me....the time I give....to Oscar. Mr. Spice understood....when we got married....that Oscar would always be a part of our lives.

Oscar takes a lot of time. Usually, during this time of year I move out of our home temporarily and move into this home. It's only temporary, but this time of year...Oscar is much more demanding of my time.

Some people don't understand my love affair with Oscar.
People will often say, "It's just an award ceremony" or "They are just movies."
And I say to those "people"....Go wash your mouth out with soap! Do you speak to your Mother with that mouth? Huh?!

My love of film runs deep....through generations. My Great-Grandfather, both my Grandfathers, and two Aunts all worked for film studios. I was born in Los Angeles....the water....there is something in it....and I don't just mean e coli and syringes. I love L.A.....but that is a whole other blog.

Film is as much a part of me as my two arms and two legs. I would have said uterus....but now that it's gone....it doesn't have the same impact in metaphors. I can't imagine my life without films. Writing about them...critiquing them....observing them....researching them....loving them....it's what I do. It's what I know.

So this time of year....when the Oscar nominations come out....and Hollywood gets a little peppier and a little punchier....something in me just wants to burst with joy. It's like a kid at Christmas.

Someday...if the public get a chance to buy a ticket to the Oscars....I would probably sell a kidney to go...because I don't have many salvageable organs left in my body. What a dream that would be!

So even if you haven't seen all the films nominated.....and can't stand sitting through those crazy speeches where people thank God....but then forget about Him the next day. Just remember that each of those films....started with a dream.....an idea....which turned into a story....which led to a script....which was believed in by people with money.....and those people with money turned that script....convinced other people....to leave their families for a few months....and help turn that idea into movie.

And then....people like me....go and watch those ideas....multiple times.....and critique the crap out of them....sometimes killing their original dreams. What is not to love about this business???

Oscar and I have a date. You are invited too. March 7th. ABC. 28 days.

New Year....New Goals...

2010-01-10T13:31:00.002-07:00

2010 New Year's Goal -

Don't have any surgeries.

Alive...and Well!

2009-12-16T19:18:00.003-07:00

First of all, thank you...thank you....thank you.....for your prayers and kind wishes. What an encouragement you all have been to me.

I am doing great. Sore for sure! But emotionally, physically, mentally, doing great. Surgery went well and all the events that were supposed to occur...did successfully.

I won't be blogging, checking email...Facebooking for a while...because it is very uncomfortable to sit at the computer. So, give me a little more healing time and I will be back to catch you all up on the gory details. You know I will, too!

A week post-op....and doing well. Thank you so much for your emails, phone calls and comments. I am not quite up to phone chats or visitors yet because it takes SO much energy to just get through a normal day right now. It's temporary....so soon I'll be up and at em'! It's an 8 week recovery....and I only have 7 left....not that I'm counting! One more week of strict bed rest and then I can be up and around a little more....even drive! Yay! Who knew I'd be so excited to drive.

Please pray for my healing as my Dad's side of the family joins us for Christmas next week. I will have 3 family members staying in my home. This year is so different. I am confined to a chair or bed.....no lifting, no bending, no moving, no walking for one more week....no doing anything except rest. Sounds great, right? UNTIL YOU HAVE TOO! I miss baking cookies, cooking meals, shopping, you know....normal holiday stuff......it's just a different year.

I am so thankful for this surgery. I feel nothing but free. After the surgery, I woke up in my room and thought..."I'm FREE!" No more bleeding! No more pain! No more peeing my pants! You'll miss that....won't you?! I am so glad to be where I am. So thankful that God provided this amazing opportunity after a really tough year that....at some points....I didn't quite see the light in.

Okay, so sorry to leave you. Miss you all. Got to get back in bed.
Thank you! Thank you God!

It's Take Away Day...

2009-12-10T06:47:00.002-07:00

Wow. I just sighed a huge sigh of relief. I heard yours too. This thing is almost over. I am ready. Not real excited about the process and pain....but ready to get this over with. No more talking about it. No more preparing for it. No more starving myself...

I am looking forward to the surgeon taking away the parts that don't work and repairing the parts he can. Let's get this over with!! :-)

Let's start posting about other stuff....when I can type without narcotics raging through my system....and that might be a while! :-)

Cleaning Out The Pipes....

2009-12-09T14:17:00.002-07:00

In the midst of "bowel prep" and a clear liquids diet. Just thought I'd share that with you. It's the grossest, most terrible feeling. But I am looking forward to more orange Jello and chicken broth for dinner.....the same thing I had for breakfast.....and lunch too. :-)

This is the part that hysterectomy patients don't talk about....and now...I know why!

Consider it my gift to you...Doc...

2009-12-07T21:24:00.002-07:00

In less than 24 hours and my husband will be home. In just over 48 hours I will go into surgery. How am I feeling? I am broken out in hives from the waist down. Awesome.

I got a pedicure today. It's really a gift to my surgeon. Since I will be in stirrups for 3 hours....I figured I'd have red toes....hopefully they won't distract.

I also got my eyebrows waxed. That's just upkeep....and a gift to the general public. You are welcome.

The pedicurist probably thought the hives on my legs was a scary disease. Don't you think it's weird that she didn't ask? Do you think it's weirder that I didn't say anything?

I got so comfy during my pedicure....that after she finished and I sat in the chair reading my book for an extra 25 minutes....she asked me, "are you ready to go now or you want to stay for longer?" Um...is staying longer an option? I mean as long as you are cool with my rash and all....

Well, off to itch my legs. Can't take anything...too close to surgery......doctor's orders. That's neat.

Pray for Dr. Mourad.....my surgeon.
Pray for my anesthesiologist....don't know his name yet.
Pray that these hives go away.
Pray for Asha. A lot of change in her little life right now. She....like her mother...might have anxiety issues....MIGHT......just sayin....
Pray for good drugs and no pain.
Pray that I can do all the things I need to do to leave the hospital on time.
Pray for my husband to readjust to life at home quickly....and not suffer too badly from jet lag.
Pray for my anxiety.
Pray that they have a cocktail hour in the hospital. Okay....I know....it's strictly narcotics....not alcohol.
Pray for all those who have kindly stepped in to serve our family during my down time.
Pray that I continue to view this surgery as an opportunity for FREEDOM!

2009-12-01T21:05:00.003-07:00

I didn't go anywhere. Just going through a particularly difficult moment. As the clock counts down...and details are finalized....I find myself just a little bit sadder.

God is asking me to trust Him in so many new ways. All the while...I hear a voice that says, "Please, just rest in Me." And the battle ensues...the flesh resists....while my soul longs for the rest.

I have spent decades "holding it all together." And now...God is asking me to let it all go. To turn it all over to Him. To come undone. It is one of the most difficult times I have gone through.

Please pray. Pray for peace. Pray for rest. Pray for total submission to the Only One who can heal my body, mind and heart. Pray for the sadness. Pray for the grieving process.

Oh, Good Grief.....

2009-11-11T14:23:00.000-07:00

The grief over having a hysterectomy is a strange visitor. It comes and goes....both a welcome and unwelcome visitor at the same time. It never calls before coming...it simply barges in and demands my attention. Sometimes it stays away for a long time....and then.....just when I think it's gone for good.....it shows up. It comes in odd ways. Quiet sobs, panic, anxiety....even chest pains related to anxiety. I feel things very deeply......knowing this about myself.....has allowed me to give myself grace.....for times of unexpected emotions.

I keep this verse imprinted in my heart:
"When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, your consolations delight my soul." Psalm 94:19

What a comfort that verse has been to me. During my first surgery this summer, I came to learn....that the hysterectomy....would be in my future....sooner.....than later. At that time....the thought of a hysterectomy was comforting because it meant the end to being bed ridden and blood loss...or "Blood Fest 2009". However, when my Doctor finally said the words, "You are going to need a hysterectomy." I immediately felt the grief settle in. It did not hit me like a punch in the stomach, rather I felt it slowly come over me....like warmth after drinking a hot drink on a very cold day. I think that was what was most surprising about it. I expected the grief to hit me......I'd deal with it.....and move on. Yet, my grief has come in waves.

The sight of pregnant women, babies, and/or talking about pregnancy has yet to bother me. However, talking about my own pregnancy experience will get me going! I can't even give specific things that bring up my grief. It's totally random and unexpected. I expect that I would be grieving more than I am......but having Mr. Spice on a long trip.....means I have to try and have a little control over myself. So because I am pushing aside a lot of my grieving to be the strong, single parent.......I expect a lot of the grieving will come after the surgery. Don't get me wrong....I cry. And I cry a lot. That is the hormone imbalance. Grief....is different. It's deeper. Unlike the random chicken McNugget cries.....grief....has purpose.

Twelve days post-op....8 family members arrive to celebrate Christmas with us. I would imagine....cause that's just how things happen.....that the majority of my emotions....would chose that day....to unload. I can just see it now....."Merry Christmas Ya'll........(breaking into sobs) We get to celebrate the birth of our Looorrddd......oh, my gosh.....BIRTH!!!! WAAHHHHHHHHH" I think I should make the Christmas dinner toast....don't you?

Since my surgery is less than 36 hours after Mr. Spice arrives home.....I don't really have the time to cry it out right now.....plus.....I like to wait until he's around to cry. It's way better when he stares at me with a blank look on his face while I cry. Seriously, the poor guy....has NO idea what to do with a crying wife. No comfort. No nothing. Just a blank look.....and then a random question to try and change the subject. Like....I could be sobbing about something.....and he will stare at me......and then ask, "So, did you say you paid the car insurance today?" BUT....he's learning. He's getting better. And...I love him for it. I mean after all.....they don't teach classes on how to handle hormonally imbalanced wives. They should though. And...I think the City Parks and Rec Department....should offer them...

No Womb at the Inn. Literally...

2009-11-10T06:59:00.000-07:00

:::DISCLAIMER:::
This is just me....sharing my personal experience. There is no victim in this story. This is just therapy for me....to write it out....put it in the past....and move on. I am not sharing this story for the intention of receiving pity, gifts, or meals. Well, gifts and meals will be accepted. Pity...no way. It's just the facts of what is happening....nothing more. Again, gifts....will be accepted.

:::WARNING:::
This post is a personal account of my physical body. It contains words such as...bladder, uterus, periods and maybe even afterbirth. Not really afterbirth...just wanted to throw that one in there for fun. If you think you might get queasy while reading....grab the barf bowl...and read on!

There is a great secret amongst many women out there. Well, there are probably many secrets....but one of the most unspoken secrets is hormone imbalance as related to gynecological diagnosis. Say what? I know. That is why it is a secret. It's easier to appear put together...but slightly moody....then to explain hormone imbalance and then expect people to get it....and love you past it.

My experience with hormone imbalance is like having the worst PMS.....all.....the....time. It's the only way I know how to relate it. It's totally different for each woman. For me it's a feeling of being out of control emotionally, physically and mentally times 100. I can be happy about something....and five minutes later....I will be sobbing at a McDonald's commercial featuring chicken nuggets.....and have NO idea why I am sobbing. Sounds crazy, right? It feels crazier. It is a threatening topic. How do you explain to someone why you cry at the sight of chicken McNuggets?

The past year....or 24 years....have been a physical roller coaster. One of the upside down, crazy kinds...that has tunnels and steep drops and slows down.....just before it speeds up again. It all began....just before 5th grade. I was 9. I started my period. I was a little scared. My Mom cried. Burned into my memory...is how heavy and how often it came. Doctor's said it was "normal." "Heavy, irregular periods are normal when they first begin." But it didn't end there. My body changed.....forever. I began to metabolize carbohydrates differently. My periods were very, very painful. I felt out of control emotionally. People thought I was moody. If you ask someone who knew me from elementary and Jr. high....High school, college....okay, life! I would bet you money....they would say I was moody. I was. The part that was most difficult....is that I couldn't control it. Weight began to stick to me like white on rice. I didn't have a weight problem...until I started my period. Other crazy things started to appear. Skin tags, acanthosis nigricans (google it), signs of insulin resistance, snoring, and now....high blood pressure. Separately, they are not major things. But together and when you are a kid.....they pose a social risk...more than anything. So, out of pure survival....I learned to hide...and tolerate...the pain, the symptoms...the problems.

The year 2000 began with everyone holding their breath....waiting for the world to crash. Y2K. And....my period. On 1/1/00...I began a period that would last for more than 380 days. I went to more than 6 doctors that year to try and figure out what was wrong. It was also the year that I went to Europe.....alone.....and I could do that....because I had become a professional in hiding pain, discomfort and feelings. The doctor visits are memorable....I was told everything from...."it's nothing".....to "it's in your head....you are making yourself bleed." Wow....what a gift I have. On the visit to the 7th and final doctor....with my Mom accompanying me.....we walked into his office, sat in a chair and when he asked, "Can you tell me about your situation?" I burst into tears. Tired of fighting. Tired of bleeding. Tired. My Mom explained the past year...the past several years....and he decided right then and there....that surgery was the only way to find out what is going on. Thank you God. That surgery is what brought on my diagnosis of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and severe Endometriosis.

There is no cure for either endometriosis or PCOS. Some women take medications...many women just have surgeries every year or so to help with the symptoms. I just decided...to live with it. And so I did. Until...I noticed in 2008....things were getting worse. My moods, my symptoms, my periods.....things were changing. My Doctor did some blood tests which declared that I was in pre-menopause. A few months later....the same blood test results said I had too many hormones in my body. My body was just out of control. Around November of 2008 I began to have new symptoms. I couldn't tell if they were related to my hormone issues....or something totally different. I had more tests.....and finally in February of 2009 my gallbladder came out. Another praise to God! What a relief that was!

But my body was still acting funny...even after the gallbladder surgery. I didn't have a period from December 08....to July 09. I knew I wasn't pregnant....but I knew something was brewing. And on July 8th....2009....I finally started my period. Only there was one....slight....problem. It was a Niagara Falls of a period AND...it wouldn't stop. I am not going to give details....as much as I am DYING too! Seriously, I wish I could just gross you all out right now. But...I have to reserve my dignity and in the name of class....I will not do it. But seriously, call me or email me if you want to know the gross stuff. I'll totally tell you.

Moving on. I had emergency surgery in August because the bleeding was so severe and would not stop. A week after the surgery.....the bleeding did stop. And....one week later....it started again.....with a vengeance.

It was then decided....by a team of experts including.....me.....my Mom......and my Doctor......that a hysterectomy....was my only option.

So, on December 10th. I will be losing my uterus and cervix. I will also be having my ovaries drilled......and.....the most exciting part......my bladder repaired....and slung! The ovary drilling to shock my ovaries into normal function reducing the major amounts of testosterone surging through my system. Say goodbye to the beard, ya'll! The bladder repair? A bonus. During my labor with Asha....the ligaments that hold the bladder in place were shredded and torn. So for the last 4 1/2 years....I have literally peed my pants everyday....multiple times. All it takes is a sneeze, cough, laugh, yell, stand up, sit down.....and my bladder empties. Good times. Again....not really a subject you can get mad at me for not talking to you about. Cause...it's a major party foul topic. "Hey ya'll are so funny I just peed my pants! No. Literally. Just. Peed."

Yes, I have a lot of anxiety about my upcoming surgery. I also have a lot of joy! No more bleeding. No more peeing my pants. No more abnormal facial hair. No. More. Bleeding.

Cause really, uncontrolled bleeding.....peeing of the pants.....and a lady with a beard......nothing makes me feel more sexy and womanlike!

The best part....is the support group. I'll let you know when we crochet little uterus ornaments...I assume that would be the first group activity...

I'm Bringing Sassy Back....

2009-11-09T18:27:00.004-07:00

So, during my blog sabbatical....a lot went on. Things that required me to take a sabbatical in the first place. However, now I'm in a place....where I need to write. It's like therapy for me. Cheap therapy where no one talks back and tells me that everything is my fault to begin with. Writing is what comes naturally to me. It's what I do best. So here I am.....writing. The difference is......the stuff I am going to write about.....is kind of weird for me to share. The writing might have a certain.....tone if you will. The tone might come across as a victim. But....that is not the intention. And...it's the very thing I am afraid about sharing my writing. I am simply sharing. Not asking for anything in return. I am just journaling.....in public......online......to the world. Totally normal. There might be little, fun, light posts about my family......but mostly.....it will be heavy, heart topics.

I might even lose some blog readers over this. And that is totally fine. Not everyone is going to be interested.....or even care. No worries. Again....just an online journal. No expectations at all.

So read on kittens. At your own risk. Missed you all...

Sabbatical......OR......I Got A New CAT-ical......

2009-08-05T13:27:00.002-07:00

I've tried people....I really have tried to keep up with this blog...but life has me in a busy season right now. I hope...that when this busy season is over...I can resume the blog...but for now I am taking a sabbatical....and giving the blog a rest.

The biggest projects in my life right now....are just not blog-able. Hopefully, as a few more things become cemented and the busy season relaxes....I can post about them.

This break does not in any way, shape or form mean that I am unavailable in real life. Please call, email, meet me for coffee, stand outside my house taking random pictures, stalk me as I run errands....anything.

A quick update before I sign off for a while....

Asha is getting old-er. She is 4 1/2 going on 18. Her personality is larger than life. She is currently in a horse phase in which I can see no end. She loves playing and school. She loves being with Mom and Dad. She is starting her second year of preschool (Pre-K) in a few weeks and cannot WAIT until the school doors open. She is looking forward to playing soccer in a league this fall.

Mr. Spice is doing great. He bought a bicycle and has been riding rain/shine/torturous heat throughout the valley. He loves to go on bike rides with Asha. Mr. Spice cooks an amazing Indian dinner for any willing guest! Make your reservation any time. :-)

Mrs. Spice is exactly where God wants her. I am so thankful for the new projects and people that God has brought into my life. It's a busy season....but a really fun one too! More on all of that....later.

Mitchell Spice is our newest family member. He is a cat....that is true. He is a pure bred Norwegian Forest Cat that we rescued through a local animal rescue organization. We love him like crazy. He fits perfectly into our family. He is more like a dog than a cat. Come over and meet him.....he'll answer the door! No. Really. He also lets me vacuum him with the Dustbuster. He's got quite the personality.

Well, remember....this is in no way goodbye....just see you later. Until next time....

2009-06-25T09:21:00.004-07:00

Hellloooooo Kittens, Mrs. Spice is back....

Well, that was quite the hiatus, eh? Can't a blogger take a break? Evidently not. I am still hosing down my front door from the numerous flaming bags of poo thrown at it. Not quite sure how to get rid of the smell though.

So, let's catch up. Come on in, have a seat. Look, I made fresh scones....still warm from the oven....have a one with your coffee. And for your viewing pleasure...here is a peek at just a few events in the past months with the Spice Family. Basically, here are the times I remembered to bring my camera and actually take pictures. Get cozy!

Asha attended AWANA this year with her friend Madison. She loved it! She loved having Madison in her class and did an amazing job at memorizing tons of verses! Madison is moving on up...to the kindergarten class next year so they won't be together....shhhh.....I haven't told Asha. :-) I am proud of these girls. (Don't mind the bearded guy in the background...he's safe...and background checked.)

So, Asha comes to me casually one day and in her calmest voice, says,"Mom, a helicopter landed in our front yard." As if it happens every day. WHAT? I thought she was kidding....and then I remembered who she was....the MOST LITERAL child in the world. She doesn't joke. And...so I thought I had better take a look. Sure enough....there was a helicopter in the park across the street (we call it our front yard.) I grabbed the camera and started taking pictures of it. There were a couple fire engines there too....I thought they were doing a drill. So, I said things like, "Hey, Asha stand here so I can get your picture with the helicopter" and "Asha, stick your tongue out like you are going to eat the helicopter" and "let's go see if they'll give us a ride." And then....the Sensitive Sally that I am.....realized....this was no drill. They were transporting someone from the ambulance into the helicopter. Oops. Then Asha wanted to know what was happening....so we sat down on the stoop and talked about the possibilities and then prayed for the person being transported. It was interesting to watch. Mr. Spice could hardly believe he missed all the action when he got home from work! We showed him the pictures and videos we took and Asha gave him a recap. It's not everyday you have a helicopter land in your front yard....or even the park across the street that you claim is your front yard, but don't water or mow.
Surf's up Dude! We have a new friend in our lives...Jelena. (Pronounced Yell-in-A). Jelena is a couch surfer from Switzerland. There is a new movement called....couch surfing. It is a thing where you can host your couch or surf someone else's couch.....and it's all free. Basically, you offer your couch and open your home to someone who may be passing through....or visiting your area and needs a place to crash. Jelena stayed on my Aunt Kathleen's couch in Los Angeles and then surfed our couch as she passed through Phoenix and headed up North to the Grand Canyon. Jelena is awesome! She is 25 and saved up for 2 1/2 years to spend 10 months traveling around the world. She really wants to see how other people in the world live....hence the couch surfing. She stayed with us for 24 hours.....but I begged her to stay longer! She was so nice and so much fun....and Asha thought Jelena was her own personal guest. These two were hilarious together. It was as if we had known Jelena our whole lives. What a joy! And....now we have a great place to stay in Switzerland....if we ever go! Technically, Jelena surfed an Aerobed in the guest room....our couch is not very comfortable to sleep on.....unless you are Mr. Spice and there is a football/golf/basketball/racing/cricket/soccer game on.
Asha's last day of her first year....of preschool. OR the day I wanted to crawl under a pew and cry. The day came with much anticipation.....as parents and grandparents filled the sanctuary, ready for the big event.....I chose my position.....center seat in the front pew. Mr. Spice as wel as the Spice Grandparents had to work that day.....so I was alone....and cursing their names by the end.
You know those times where you watch another kid meltdown into a train wreck and you look over to the kids parents with big....sorrowfilled eyes......and then say to yourself...."Wow...what is wrong with that kid? There must be major problems at home!" Yeah....that was what every parent was saying to me on this day. It was horrible. First of all.....Asha hates to be in a position where she is getting extra attention. She does not perform.....for anyone. For weeks ahead of time I would tell her how much I was looking forward to seeing her class sing the songs they were learning. So on the day of the performance....my kid....my sweet angel....was NOT going to conform. I believe in the picture below....where the class is doing the Pledge of Allegience.....a sacred and patriotic duty.........my sweet angel is telling her teacher that the boy to her right, RJ, the kindest, nicest boy ever.....is in her space. Clearly, the two feet of space between them.....was not enough. Of course Asha was placed center stage....so everyone could see and hear the meltdown. I can't talk anymore about it.....except to say.....that at the end.....as the group bowed their heads and folded their hands to send the class off in prayer......my child annoucned....."I don't want to pray." And....scene. Let's just say that the first few days of summer.....were tough....and not full of fun and frolic. They were sad, sad days for our sweet angel. Whose attitude has greatly improved. Thank you Lord. I haven't decided if I will be showing my face again for year two of preschool. Maybe I'll go dressed as Ellen Degeneres?

Ahhh....foster care. Okay. First let me tell you about this picture. Then I will give you the update on where we are in the journey. To be licensed to foster in Arizona you have to attend 12 weeks of classes and donate an organ. Okay, not the organ donation part....but there is a ton of work and lots of hoops to jump through. Rightly so....I mean...you are trying to prove that you can take care of kids.....better than they were being taken care of.....and then give them back. So, every Wednesday night for 12 weeks we attended class with the craziest bunch of people ever! And we absolutely fell in love with each other! So we have stuck close by and continue to get together months after classes ended. Here we all are at a park having a BBQ. The group is a mixture of foster and foster/adopt and adoptive families. It's amazing how much we all have in common already. It will definitely be a blessing to have these crazies with us during our journey of fostering.So, where exactly are we with the foster care thing? We are waiting. Waiting for a phone call from CPS. Basically, DES was forced into HUGE budget cuts by the state. Foster care monthly allowances were cut by more than $200. CPS lost over 600 staff!! So the end result is....an understaffed, underpayed system. Now, CPS is just NOT pulling that many kids because they don't have the manpower to provide case managers. So there are hundreds of empty foster homes......hundreds if not thousands of abused and neglected kids being left in unsafe environments.....and a lot of frustrated DES and CPS workers. It's a flawed system. I have a lot of experience in working with DES and CPS....and as long as I have known it and worked with it....it has been flawed. So....we wait.....and wait......and wait. Anxiously.....waiting. Trusting....that God knows when....and who will enter our home. But frankly.....the waiting is killing me.

So there you go Kittens. It's not a lot. It's not complete. It might not even be enough for you. And to that I say....Lower your freakin' standards and give me a break, will ya! No, no. What I mean to say is....I am back and you were missed.

Yeah....I've Got A Problem....

2009-03-30T14:24:00.003-07:00

Apparently, I'm not the only parent who has an addiction to Chic-Fil-A. It's not the food I'm addicted too, it's more like the fact that I can have an adult conversation with another Mom....without being interrupted 800 times in one sentence! Besides, my kid thinks it's Disneyland there. She doesn't even like meat...but she will eat at Chic-Fil-A any...day. Besides, it's better than McDonalds....because it's closed on Sundays....right? :-)

Perspective and Priorities....

2009-03-23T11:55:00.005-07:00

4 Going On 25.....I Can't Believe It...

2009-03-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

Asha-isms that I never want to forget.....but eventually will....because I already can't remember what I had for breakfast this morning.

Blimp - Ballimp
Of Course - A course
Touching - chuching
Spaghetti - basketti
Wall-E - Waw-ee
Elevator and/or Escalator - Elligator
Cinnamon - Cimanon
Remember - Benember

Four years ago on this very day....my heart, as well as my 'nether-regions', were ripped wide open as my daughter was born. I told God I didn't want kids...but He knew I would be a better woman with kids. I also told Him that I didn't want a vacation home in Hawaii....hoping we had a good thing going with reverse psychology....but so far....no vacation home.

To celebrate this great day...I've written Asha a letter.

Dear Asha,
You are four. I can hardly believe how fast the time has gone. On the morning of your third birthday you awoke a different person....completely. You awoke with a strong personality....opinions....a voice. It was challenging at first. Your father and I briefly wondered if you had started your period. But we were quickly comforted by friends and family telling us that no....this behavior....this was three. The year of three....sent our heads spinning.

The last 365 days have been the greatest team building exercise our family has gone through...as of yet. Your Father and I feel like singing from the rooftops this morning....the morning of your 4th birthday. Today you are 4! You are no longer a baby or a toddler. You are a little girl. We just can't believe that you made it....alive....and without any broken bones! You are a rough and tumble girl! You will climb and jump off of anything. For a while I thought you had that disease where you don't feel pain....and that's why you did all these crazy things. But then we just realized...no....you are crazy. Cute....but a little crazy. I'm sure it's from your Father's side.

You love the outdoors. I constantly apologize to you for being born in a state where at least 4 months out of the year you are stuck indoors. Mostly because I sweat too much. But also because it's 150 freakin' degrees outside. You love animals and nature so much. You will pick any flower, leaf, branch...etc...you can reach. I appreciate your love of God's creation. Recently, you have entered into a deep love of horses. I have deepened my prayers and lengthened my quiet times in this phase....just hoping to avoid the inevitable question, "Mom, Dad, can I have a horse?" My answer is, "When I can have a Porsche Cayenne."

This morning while driving to school, you uttered words so precious that hearing them was like being rolled into lambs wool lying beside a fire....with a martini in hand.

You said, "Mom, can you play my music?"

I even had to ask you to repeat the sweet phrase to make sure I heard it correctly. Those were such sweet, sweet words to Mommy's ears because over the last 4 years I've collected hundreds and hundreds of songs on my iPod just for you. I have hours of songs from movies you love, songs from church, cute songs I thought you would like. But you wanted none of it. From the minute you could speak you made sure that Daddy and I knew that you did NOT want "your" music playing in the car or at home. We can only listen to "Mom and Dad's" music. Once in a while I would try and sneak on one of your songs in the car....wow. And after you recovered from the meltdown of the century...NORAD was called in....and we put "my" music back on....you would tell me you never wanted to hear that music again. Okay...so how did you really feel about it?

Don't get me wrong. You probably know more gangster rap lyrics then most 4 year olds. It's been neat to have Mother-Daughter bonding moments while rapping it out to Big Poppa. It's been special. And I guess those moments are over. It brings a bittersweet tear to my eye that you are leaving Justin Timberlake behind....for Laurie Berkner. Maybe they'll tour together someday...and we can go to the concert together. I'll even buy you a t-shirt.

I love and adore every cell in your body and every ounce of your sweet spirit. You have an amazing personality and the energy of a husky with a love for Red Bulls!? I look forward to this year and cannot wait to show you more and more of this great big world that you love so much. You are a blessing and gift from God. The meaning of your name says it all....Hope. May you grow in your knowledge and love of Jesus Christ and learn to depend on Him for all your needs. May you come to learn quickly that just because you CAN do it....doesn't always mean you should. Trust me....I had to learn that one a little late in life. :-)

I love you Asha Jean. With all of my heart. Now....let's go see when JT is coming into town.
Love, Mommy

**A special disclaimer to those who don't know me well enough to know that I would never let my child listen to gangster rap. Please don't call CPS...they already know all about it.

2009-03-15T15:20:00.005-07:00

Minimally Adequate. It's a term used by "the system"...judges, lawyers, CPS caseworkers, etc... to determine whether a child whose been removed from his/her home can be returned. It's an unwritten law. See there just aren't enough foster homes for all the children who need them. So, judges return the children to their homes...as long as they are minimally adequate. A possible scenario for this situation may be....parents smoke marijuana, but both work...right now and can financially for their children....right now. The parents live in an apartment/condo/house/trailer. It might be in a bad neighborhood, and so what...it's trashed all the time. It's a roof over their heads....even if it is infested with cockroaches. There is no evidence of physical or sexual abuse ...even though CPS has been called for abuse in this family before. The children attend school regularly and don't complain of hunger. So the judge returns the children to the home....because it is what is considered minimally adequate.

You see there is no law that says you cannot parent and be a drug addict at the same time. There is a law that says you cannot neglect or abuse your child....which are often consequences of drug use. But doing drugs and being a parent. Not a crime.

A licensing worker gave me a recent statistic that startled me. 70% of the children who are removed from their homes in Maricopa County...are removed for METH....and METH alone. METH is powerful and addicting the very first time it is used. There are just too many children removed from their homes and not enough foster homes or adoptive homes to handle the need.

Minimally Adequate. If you went to a restaurant or bought something at a store....would you accept that it was minimally adequate? Would you take a sweater that had only one sleeve and no buttons because the shop owner told you it would have to do? Would you eat a steak that had been sitting in the sun all day and was not properly prepared....because the waiter told you that it was necessary? So then why is a minimally adequate standard of living acceptable for our children? This is not happening in a third world country. This is happening here. In our country. In our state. In our cities. On our streets.

As Mr. Spice and I enter this new world of foster care....we are learning some scary statistics and hearing heartbreaking stories. We have met and spoken with many foster families and learned that this adventure will be heart wrenching, yet rewarding all at the same time. There are moments in which Mr. Spice and I turn to each other in terror and wonder what we are getting ourselves into. But...the majority of the time....we feel like we were born to do this. Becoming a foster family is in many ways becoming a missionary. You are forced to leave all comforts behind...and walk into the unknown. And without Christ as your Guide....it will fail. So I keep Him close.

It is only with God's help that I can go forward into this. For months He has been preparing me. Refining me. Disciplining me. He is stirring my soul...so that the scum will rise to the surface and be skimmed off. I wish I could say I have reacted perfectly...each time He moves me. But....alas....my flesh still gets in the way every once in a while. However, I can see now where He is taking me....and why. He is asking me to give up more and more of myself....for Him. So that I might be used by Him.

Got Rid of the Rocks...Now I Feel Better...

2009-03-10T10:37:00.003-07:00

Beginning sometime in October I began feeling sick. Nauseous after every time I ate...no matter what it was. The symptoms got worse and more serious. By Christmas I was sick all the time and in constant pain. Finally, after a pretty serious pain-filled episode on New Year's Day, I made a Doctor's appointment. After several tests and such...the Dr. determined that I had a broken gallbladder filled with stones that needed to come out. So on February 17th I went under the knife and had my gallbladder removed. Since then I am feeling much better. I still can't eat many things...but I am not in pain...so that is nice.

What a way to start off the new year, eh? Next week my baby...turns 4. I should be able to update my blog somewhere around her 8th birthday. Ha...Ha.

On the Foster Care front....we are almost done! We have 3 classes left in our training....our DES home inspection and that's it! We should have our first placement in April/May. We are very excited....but we also realize that it is going to change our lives in BIG ways. We are a very simple family of 3....and our world is about to turn upside down. We are just going to take it step by step and day by day. Thankfully, we have a great support system of friends from our training class and family, of course. I know there will be a lot of tears and times of frustration in our journey....but I have been praying fervently that God will guide me as I become a temporary "Mom" to some very needy, damaged kids. I covet your prayers as well!

So, I was tagged to ask Asha questions and post her answers. Here is what she said. None of the answers surprised me....because my child is VERY literal. So I could have predicted most of them. However, I had to hold back tears on #20. Dang she is sweet.....but oh, so literal.

1. What is something mommy always says to you? I love you.
2. What makes mommy happy? When I tell the truth.
3. What makes mommy sad? You don't get sad.
4. What does your mommy do that makes you laugh? Tickle me.
5. What was your mommy like as a child? A girl.
6. How old is your mommy? I don't know, tell me.
7. How tall is your mommy? This big. (Holding her arm up)
8. What is her favorite thing to do? Play with me.
9. What does your mommy do when you're not around? Try to find me.
10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for? Dancing.
11. What is your mommy really good at? Doing the computer.
12. What is your mommy not very good at? Nothing.
13. What does your mommy do for her job? Do something on the computer.
14. What is your mom's favorite food? Chicken.
15. What makes you proud of your mommy? Going poop in the potty.
16. If your mommy were a cartoon character, who would she be? Nobody.
17. What do you and your mom do together? Play.
18. How are you and your mom the same? We are both girls.
19. How are you and your mom different? I got different hair.
20. How do you know your mom loves you? You got a great, beautiful heart.

Thank you for your loyalty and patience as I recover from sickness and surgery and get into a "normal" routine again. More to come...no, really.

This is dedicated to....The One and Only....Aunt Shannon....

2009-01-23T08:32:00.012-07:00

A recent comment....by an anonymous blog stalker mentioned that he/she would like to know more about my sister. Well, say no more. I am dedicating an entire post to her. Why a whole post? Because she is special....and worth it......and my parents are giving me $50 to do it.

Shannon is her name and camping is her game. If you are single and ready to mingle....she's your gal. Here is a list of her requirements for marriage:
1. Male
2. Age 18 and over

Okay, not really. She does have standards....he also has to be breathing. Enough! Stop it!

So, I called my sister this morning for her permission to post about her. She said it was okay as long as I used good pictures. Which....takes all the fun out of it for me.....but I see where she's coming from. I doubt Mr. Right will come calling after seeing her school picture from 3rd grade. Just sayin.
Here is a picture of Shannon (on the right) along with our cousin Sara. Sara is also single...as far as I know. Just sayin. Hey....here's one way to get my blog stalking Aunt who never leaves a comment......to start talking! Hi Molly!

Shannon lives in Scotts Valley, California....near where we grew up. She works full-time as a Program Assistant for the Outdoor Education Program at Mission Springs Camp. Basically, she hangs out in the trees and plays with people of all ages. Sounds pretty fun to me! She is very outgoing and great with people. She is an amazing artist and likes to paint and draw. Best part is...she never likes any art she creates....so she gives it away freely.

Here is a picture of Shannon (Shannon is on the left) with her friend. I have no idea who the friend is.....so I am posting this picture without her permission. Hey...maybe Shannon's friend will get a date out of this post too!

Shannon is a very passionate person. Growing up she was passionate about animals. She collected all types of animals including tarantulas at one point. And rats at another. Sick. Don't worry....she doesn't have them anymore. Now her passions are focused on people. She loves serving people and serving the Lord. She's also a passionate reader. She has a wealth of interesting books under her belt.....and in her head.

So if you like long walks on the beach, quiet nights at home and don't mind the occasional loud gregarious laugh.....Shannon's your gal. Oh, and for a limited time only my parents are offering a free plasma t.v. to take her on a date. And a free Bose stereo system if you marry her. They are so generous. When Umesh and I married.....he only got.....me. And Asha. It was a two for one special. HA! I think I just made my Mom cry.

Okay, back to Shannon. She's single....and ready to mingle. Call your brothers, cousins, single Father's....and Uncles. Maybe not Grandfathers.....that might be weird. Because it's not like this blog post isn't weird.

Good Luck Shannon! I love you!

Dear Kittens...

2009-01-04T11:14:00.015-07:00

So, I knew it was time to update when....the nicest person I know...called to tell me she's angry at me for not updating my blog. Something like that....a simple phone call like that....affects you. And here it goes:

Did you think I had forgotten you? After all....we've been friends for so long. But alas...I have to admit....I got carried away by the season...and many other distractions. I mean jeez...if you missed me just look at the Christmas card I sent you. Oh. You didn't get that either? Wow...I really am slipping...aren't I?

So...what happened in all that time I was away?

Here's a quick update on the last....?? weeks.

Thanksgiving:
Awesome..we hosted in our new house...friends....family....food....football. What could be better? We celebrated in thankfulness for all God has done for us. Oh, and I baked 2 pumpkin pies.

Then came....Christmas season. We packed December with school programs, parades, late night drives to look at Christmas lights and lots of fun with family. It was a different kind of Christmas this year. I didn't bake one cookie. I didn't hang one decoration. Don't get me wrong...I wasn't a Scrooge. I thoroughly enjoyed and celebrated the season....but this year was different. Partly because we were leaving town for Christmas....and partly because it's been a crazy year. Don't worry. Next year I'll be back....back to baking and decorating. This year was more of an informal celebration.

My parents, sister, Mr. Spice, Asha and I spent Christmas week at Disneyland. What a dreamy trip that was. We loved every stinking' second. It was a wonderful vacation full of family fun and Disney magic. Boppa treated us to a wonderful week. We are eternally grateful. Thanks Boppa!The biggest news is.....NO.....I am not pregnant. Wow...you people really have a way with throwing that one in. Let me just give you this piece of info....IF I get pregnant....look up into the sky....because pigs will be flying....and they'll be wearing Superman capes.

Okay...the big news is....Mr. Spice and I....are going to be....Parents! Foster parents! That's right. We are smack dab in the middle of our licensing process. We will be licensed to Foster and certified to adopt. We will have very fancy certifications that basically state...."we will try really hard not to mess up your kid as bad as we messed up our own." We are very excited and learning a lot!! We attend a three hour class every Wednesday night at our agency for training. The process is INTENSE....as it should be. We should be receiving our first placement as early as April or May.

I will be able to blog about foster parenting...however, I won't be able to share pictures, names or details of the children. So basically...I can't tell you much. But I can talk about the ups, downs and learning curves we face during the journey. That should be good enough.

Something else exciting that happened recently was a reunion. My three best friends from high school and I had dinner last weekend. It was amazing. Going into it.....I was afraid it might be awkward....but it was great. We picked up right were we left off. These women are awesome. Mostly because they have been my friends for over 19 years. That right there...is not easy. They have stuck with me through thick and thin. They know the best parts of me.....and the even better parts of me. I don't have any worst parts....so that's easy. It's a great feeling to have history with friends. To know that no matter what....you won't leave me....and I won't leave you. That's a big deal between women. Anyways, I hope we are still laughing it up over dinner...twenty years from now. Which....would make us in our 50's. So I will have to remember to wear Depends....cause if I dribble when I laugh now....I assume the whole freaking' dam is going to break in twenty years. Amy, Amanda, Mrs. Spice, and Mandy

Okay...so I won't go so long without blogging next time. Really. What? My promises are empty to you? I'll show you. Love you Kittens. Thanks for your loyalty.

Answers......to All of Life's Questions......or.....Just Yours...

2008-11-27T12:41:00.004-07:00

Let's start at the very beginning....a very good place to start. I ripped that off from Julie Andrews...don't tell.
Kristi asked, "Thiruh-huh? What, is that like 17 syllables?"
It's a toughie. So tough...in fact...that they have a nickname for it. Trivandrum. It's phonetic...just sound it out and you'll be right on the money. Tra-van-drum. Or...just call it, "The place where Mr. Spice is from." See...that's easier.

Katie asked, "Do you think all 1/2 Indian 1/2 American kids are as cute as Asha or is she just really extra special? If you had 10 kids how many do you think would have those dreamy curls?"

Actually, I have seen several 1/2 Indian and 1/2 American kids.....and you know what? Every single kid looks completely different. Duh. No, I mean some look more Indian.....dark, dark skin, dark hair, dark eyes. Others are blond haired, blue eyed, and light skin. I will never forget Asha's pediatrician, who is Indian, telling us that we should not be surprised if we have a second kid and he/she is blond haired and blue eyed. She said she has had to reassure many grandparents from India that yes, that blond haired, fair skinned child is in fact is your biological grandchild. I would be curious....however, we are done having biological children....but not done having children. More to come in another post.
Katie, I am biased. I believe Asha is a cutie...she definitely inherited a lot of beautiful Indian traits.....but darn it if she didn't inherit a spicy personality along with them! :-)

Carrie asked, "WANT TO GRAB THAT COFFEE WE'VE BEEN TALKING ABOUT FOR LIKE TWO MONTHS???"

YES! Carrie, every frickin' time I drive past your 'hood' I think about you. Which...by the way...is a lot. So, let's do it. Let's meet soon. I have your phone number and I will make the call. You have my word.....and my address....so you can totally throw flaming bags of dog poo at my door if I don't call.

Mikele....I'll totally answer every single one you ask!

Rachel....Oohhh.....I'm so curious about what I said. Email me if you need clarification about any of my "inappropriate comments."

Anonymous asked, "Does Mr Spice plan to (or want to) become an American citizen?"

Great question....and one of the more popular ones that Mr. Spice gets asked. He goes back and forth on the issue. The only reason he would is because of his work. He travels out of the country several times a year for work. As an Indian citizen he has to get visas for every country he goes too, where as American citizens there are very few countries we need visas for.
However, I have told him to think long and hard before he gives up his citizenship. It is not something I think he should take lightly or do for any reason except....he wants to. Giving up your citizenship is a tough thing. He's given up a lot of himself for me....and to live in my country, speak my language, be with my family...etc. His citizenship is one of the last things he has...that is his own....something that no one can take from him. So the answer is....I have no idea. :-)

I have so much more to update you all on...but I have to wait on some of it....you know...top secret stuff. But after this week I should be able to let you in on more details.

We leave for our vacation at Disneyland 3 weeks from Tuesday...YEAH! We can't wait. Asha is so excited she doesn't know what to do with herself. It's also Mr. Spice's first time. He doesn't know what to expect....so he is neutral....but I know he'll love it.

2008-11-23T22:19:00.006-07:00

How can a place feel so foreign and yet so familiar at the same time? That is how I feel about India.

Here is a view of Mr. Spice's home town, Thiruvananthapuram. Enjoy! And...you'll see why we have extra life insurance...

I get asked so many questions from people about what it is like to be married to someone from India....or sometimes what it is like to be married to a non-American. Part of the purpose of this blog is to share just that....the life of the Spices! So, ask away...we are an open...spicy...book. :-) Come on...get real...get personal....I dare you! Much to the dismay of many of my friends....there is very little that I choose not to share about my life. :-)

Here is a recent question....and answer.
Question from a "Friend":How does Mr. Spice feel about celebrating American holidays? Does he mind?

Answer: When in Rome, right? No, he doesn't mind. The nice thing is...all American holidays have one thing in common...and Mr. Spice happens to love it.....FOOD! Mr. Spice came to the U.S. January 1, 2001. Having not grown up in the U.S. he doesn't always understand the depth and/or history of some holidays...but he respects them and fully participates in any activities. On religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas, we share with Mr. Spice what we believe and why we are celebrating. He does not share my beliefs in having a personal relationship with Christ...but that's a whole other post! :-)

As a family we celebrate two of Mr. Spice's holidays, Onam and Vishu. One is similar to our Thanksgiving...and the other is a New Years....type holiday. On those holidays we gather with our friends from Mr. Spice's community of friends here in Arizona and eat, tell stories, sing songs...etc. My plan is too take a video of the next holiday, Vishu, in the spring and show it to you.

So..there you have it. The ice is broken. Ask away. Nothing is off limits. Ooohhh....that makes it interesting...doesn't it! :-) Okay...well some things are off limits....but I can't think of one of you that would even approach those subjects. :-)

To My Husband.....But Posted For My Friends!

2008-11-15T13:42:00.002-07:00

100 Reasons Why I Love You…

I love the way you call Asha and me, “Your Girls.”
I love how you run me a candlelit bath when I need one.
I love the way you are so protective of Asha and me.
I love how you get excited to see Asha and me when coming home from work.
I love how you dream big dreams for our family.
I love how much you love your own family.
I love how much you love my family.
I love your humility towards compliments and gifts for yourself.
I love the way you handle yourself at work.
I love the way you put love and warmth into your cooking.
I love your compassion towards people in need.
I love your unending passion for life.
I love your loyalty towards your family, friends, work and hobbies.
I love your gentle kindness towards strangers.
I love your passion for cars.
I love how you take care and pride in your personal belongings.
I love your encouraging words.
I love watching you interact with children.
I love when I catch you staring at me for no reason.
I love that you like to do the right thing even when it is hard.
I love that you want our marriage to be great.
I love when you make dinner for our family.
I love your smile.
I love to see you get excited about something.
I love your curiosity.
I love how you love me even when I am being unlovable.
I love when you comfort me.
I love watching you pray with Asha.
I love your tender heart.
I love that you are so honest with every part of your life.
I love that you have such a strong sense of morality.
I love that you have high expectations for yourself.
I love your thoughtfulness towards your friends.
I love that you want to stop and help every stranded stranger on the side of the road.
I love your optimism.
I love to hear your talk about your dreams for our family.
I love your gentleness towards me.
I love your boldness.
I love that you stand up for what you believe.
I love that you don’t care what others think.
I love that you stand up to me when I need it.
I love your concern for my well-being.
I love that you still love to play.
I love that you are electronically and technically knowledgeable.
I love your intelligence.
I love that people love you after meeting you.
I love your amazing people skills.
I love that even when you are frustrated at someone, you are still gentle.
I love your thick, black hair.
I love your cute smile.
I love how you love life.
I love your amazing ability to overcome adversity.
I love that you know something...about everything.
I love that you know so much about transportation.
I love that you know so much about American history...even though you weren’t born here.
I love your loyalty to your country.
I love traveling with you.
I love all the amazing new experiences we’ve shared together.
I love your overwhelming generosity towards friends, family and strangers.
I love when you hold my hand in public.
I love that you give up things you want for my benefit.
I love your faithfulness to me.
I love your thoughtful gifts to me.
I love how you never take life for granted.
I love that you never want to give up even when something is hard.
I love that you love to try new experiences.
I love how forgiving you are.
I love your big heart.
I love your voice.
I love your laugh.
I love that you still open my car door for me.
I love your patience.
I love that you comfort me when I need it.
I love your wisdom.
I love your determination and that once you set your mind on something, no one can change it.
I love that I get to spend the rest of my life with you.
I love that you are the best father any child could ask for.
I love that you love to spend time with me.
I love your creative ideas.
I love that you take the garbage out.
I love that you don’t mind folding laundry...as long as you can watch football while doing it.
I love your sense of humor.
I love that you love to entertain people in our home.
I love the way you live for the moment.
I love that we are each other’s first loves.
I love how much fun we have together.
I love that you love to play games.
I love your eagerness for life.
I love that you have opened up your heart and life to me.
I love the memories we have of our lives together.
I love your innocence.
I love that you admit when you are wrong.
I love that you are humble.
I love kissing you.
I love your strong hands.
I love that you are good at fixing things.
I love your taste in music.
I love that you painted our dining room wall..

99. I love being able to share a life together.

100. I love having been married to you for 4 years!!

Happy Anniversary Sweetie!

2008-11-12T13:42:00.006-07:00

Today is the Spices' 4th wedding anniversary. I can get very emotional, very quickly when I think about the last four years of my life. Four years may not sound like a long time...and really, it's not. But to think about all that God has done and all that we have accomplished and overcome in the last four years...it is nothing short of a miracle. Our journey together for this lifetime is far from over...we still have so much more growing and learning to do together. I look forward to it.

As an anniversary gift to my sweet husband, I wrote out "100 Reasons I Love You." Of course, there are more than 100 reasons....I just narrowed them down. :-)

Happy Anniversary Mr. Spice! I love you!

Thanks, Vets!

2008-11-11T11:27:00.003-07:00

Today, on this Veterans Day, I would like to pause and thank those that served or are serving our country to help protect and provide the freedom we know and love.

This includes my Dad, and our friend Mr. J...and many others that we know...whose names I cannot list...because of government...privacy and protection stuff. I am always afraid that the CIA or FBI or MIB or INS will come to my door. So, for their protection....D, D, B and C...thank you for your service.

Mr. Spice did not get the day off....apparently his company...which is made up of mostly Indians....thinks this is a "random" holiday. Interesting. Well, thanks to many American Veterans they are FREE to work today. :-)

Anyways, thanks to all you Veterans and your families. And don't forget that you can read the blog of an active duty Navy wife here: Just Jonesing Around. Having Dana as my best friend has taught me so much about the incredible sacrifice that a military family goes through. And don't be fooled by the fact that they get military discounts EVERYWHERE! They earn those discounts by being uprooted from their homes every 6 months to two years. She has an amazing attitude and a heart for God....oh, and a hilarious two year old.

Thanks Veterans!

And Now----Another Fascinating, and, Somewhat Controversial Posting....From Mrs. Spice...

2008-11-03T10:46:00.005-07:00

In the weeks and months approaching tomorrows vote, I, as I am sure you have too, have received countless emails, phone calls, instant messages, texts, smoke signals, etc... regarding the support of candidates along with various propositions. In the beginning, I began to get a little stressed out. See, voting to me...has always been personal. It would never occur to me to ask someone for whom they were voting for. It's their business, their decision. They don't have to explain anything to me. And frankly, who you vote for....does not change the way I think of you anyway. My love for a person is not based on who and what they vote for. So, when people ask me who I am voting for....I am always a little surprised.

What is most concerning to me about this particular election is the number of Christians, who believe that if their candidate does not come into power....then they can no longer live as Christians. I have heard story after story of Christians who believe that if certain laws are legalized or certain candidates win...then their lives must change forever. I ask.....Why?

A dear friend, helped me to remember that this world....isn't my home. So no matter who wins or what laws pass tomorrow...God is still God. Christ didn't ask me to live according to who is President...but rather He asked me to take up my cross and follow Him. (Matthew 16:24)

When you vote tomorrow...know this:
God is bigger than the person that wins.
The world...will continue to turn.
You will probably still have to drive carpool.
Floors will still have to be mopped.
Toilets....will still be dirty.
Diapers will still need changing.
Dinners will still have to be cooked.
Most of all...Christian....you are still called....to be like Christ.

Happy voting!

Here it is! My Mom's real...High School picture!

2008-10-30T13:33:00.005-07:00

Isn't she sweet? This was 18 in this picture.....so let's see....about 10 years ago, right Mom? Her neck looks unusually long in this picture....but I swear...there is no giraffe in our family...that I know of. There might be some tribal African.....but no giraffe. Gorgeous as ever though!

Wanna know what my Mom looked like in high school?...

2008-10-27T08:49:00.001-07:00

So there is this hilarious website called www.yearbookyourself.com where you can upload a picture of yourself and be transformed into a yearbook picture spanning several decades. This is me in 1960. A pretty close representation to what my Mom looked like in high school. Now...if only I had the clothes to go with the hair!

1990
1974

1972

Umm....maybe we'll stick to ice cream in a bowl....

2008-10-22T15:50:00.004-07:00

Asha: Mom, my ice cream cone melted!

Me: What? What ice cream cone?

Asha: The one from Chic-Fil-A.

Me: You mean the one we got 3 hours ago at lunch? The one I told you to put into the trash when you were done?

Asha: Yes...that one.

Me: Where did you put it?

Asha: I put it on my red Olivia book...the book about Christmas so that I wouldn't forget it after my rest.

Me: Ice cream cones don't last that long. They melt really fast so when you are done eating them...you have to put them in the trash.

Asha: Well, I put it on my red Olivia book so that I would remember that I wanted to read my Olivia book after my rest.

Me: Well, it worked...I guess. Now you can read your Olivia book.

Asha: I don't want to read my Olivia book anymore. I'm just going to play for a while.

Me: Okay. Next time you want to remember something, just ask me for help....but don't put your ice cream cone on it.

Asha (sighing heavily): Okay Mom.

Something No One Else Knows About You...

2008-10-13T22:10:00.006-07:00

Recently, during an ice breaker at a woman's event, we were asked to write down something that no one else knows about us. I was stumped. Even though I was a stranger to the majority of the people involved....I had no idea what to write. My dilemma was...if I am too honest...then people will think I am weird....and won't want to get to know me any better. But if I am too boring...then it looks like I didn't put in enough thought or effort into the activity. Over the past couple weeks....I've thought a lot about it....and I came up with a few things.....things you might not know about me.

1. I have never met any of my husband's biological relatives. I met a cousin...but he is not related by blood. I love my in-laws....but we only know each other by phone. I hope and pray we can visit them in the next few years.

2. I am TERRIFIED of spiders. Do you know what it took me to just write the word? I....am....terrified. I may act strong on the outside....but inside my blood pressure soars and it will consume me....even affecting my sleep. I would love, love, love to get over this fear.....except that I know that part of therapy would be....to talk about....and see them. And knowing that.....I can't do it. I can't talk about them anymore....moving on....

3. I hate bananas. I will avoid them at any cost. I do not like them in smoothies. I do not like them plain. I do not like them baked in bread. I do not like them on waffles. I do not like them even when you tell me, "You can't even taste the banana in this..." Trust me...I can taste it.

4. I am very sensitive. During my life I have learned to put on a really tough front. I won't cry in front of people if I can help it....I wait til later. I don't cry a lot....just every once in a while. And then I...(see #5).

5. ...bake. Some people are emotional eaters (I don't know anyone like that.) I am an emotional baker! I bake when I am happy/sad/mad/stressed/excited/pms/neurotic/scared/lonely, etc... Sadly, our oven is broken. So I have not been baking as much lately. Instead I have been using my Bible....and ice cream as my go-to's. What? There is nothing wrong with inviting Ben & Jerry to my Bible study...right?

6. I have never been thin. Never. It's not something I miss.....cause I've never known it. I am who I am. I strive to be healthy....but not anything more than who I am. I was born at nearly 10lbs....and since then....I've just been....thick and sturdy. Wow....I just made myself sound like playground equipment. "How's that new jungle gym at the park?"...."Oh, it's great...built thick and sturdy." Moving on...

7. I have always had the goal of visiting 6 of the 7 continents in my lifetime. So far...I've been too North America....South America....and Europe. I still have Asia....Australia....and Africa left to visit. I don't have any desire...to go to Antarctica. I know it's there.....I know it's cold....and I can never go there because.....

8. I am claustertrophobic. I have a fear of enclosed spaces.....and situations. Now....I don't mind elevators....if I know the ride is short. Last years "Trapped in an elevator 2007" was memorable....but not enough of a trauma to instigate a panic attack or anything. I don't crawl through tunnels....or hide in boxes....or closets. I don't like large crowds of people.....or being somewhere and feeling like I don't have an easy exit.....such as....islands. Australia will be fine....because it doesn't feel like an island. Antarctica....consists of one science station.....it's more like a small box on an iceberg. Can't do it.

Aren't you having fun learning about me? Aren't I a hoot? Gee whillagers....and there's more!

9. I love, love love.....my feet on the ground. Maybe it's due to my "thick and sturdy" stature....but I don't have a great sense of balance.....so I tend to be really, really bad at anything that takes my feet off the ground. Such as....snow skiing, rollerblading, water skiing, ice skating, the luge, etc.. There goes my Olympic dreams....

10. I have a bachelor's degree from ASU in Film. I love movies. I mostly enjoy film history...but I really....just enjoy everything about movies. I love it's entertainment factor....it's historical relevance....it's current relevance.....and mostly it's ebbs and tides throughout history. It's one of my favorite subjects to talk about. :-)

So, hopefully this inspired you to think of something that no one knows about you....and leave it as a comment. I would love to learn about you all!

So You Think You Can SEE Someone Dance???

2008-10-11T20:50:00.007-07:00

As some of my fellow bloggers have already mentioned....Jen, Kim, Rachel and I went to see SYTYCD on tour. At the show we met up with our blogging friend....Astraea!

Last year Jen and I had excellent seats....or so we thought! But this year...we upgraded....and went to the floor! I thought for sure we could reach out and touch them....and I wasn't afraid to get arrested trying. I even brought an empty Tupperware container....just in case some sweat from Will, Twitch or Joshua....flung off and landed near me.

I knew we would be close....but I had NO idea the view I would have.....

Sitting in my seat....looking straight ahead....I saw this....

If I moved my head to the left...I could see this...

And...if I moved to the right....this was my view...
I have about 12 of these pictures....which I can only assume happened while holding my camera open in my lap....waiting for "just the right shot."

Now...don't get the wrong idea. I had the time of my life!!! I love these girls and the show was amazing! I would have sat in the bathroom....just to be able to be there....in the same building as the Top 10 dancers!!! I loved the show and loved the company....it was a great night. And thanks to the three jumbo screens and Rachel's 12X zoom camera....I didn't miss a second of the action.

It's Fall!...For a few days at least...

2008-10-11T20:48:00.000-07:00

Today we enjoyed our first day of fall. We spent the morning at the park playing and talking with friendly strangers. After lunch we went to the store and bought some pumpkins for carving. Early in the afternoon we noticed a lot of activity at the park across the street. It was a wedding! It was gorgeous. They decorated with little white lights and flowers. They had a full reception too! It was so cute. I was too shy to crash the wedding....seeing as there were only about 40 people there....they would probably figure out that I didn't belong. I did try and talk Mr. Spice into grabbing a lamp or some household item from our house and offering it as a wedding gift in exchange for dinner.....but Mr. Spice is not exactly....a risk taker or rule breaker. Darn him. But I did manage to get a picture or two from our front porch.

Mr. Spice and I had a great time carving pumpkins. We love it! We do have a rule that we don't do anything scary....we just love the creative process of carving. One pumpkin has a face....the middle one has "Welcome" on it....and the third one has shooting stars. It was great....we carved the pumpkins while watching the wedding in the park.

Asha enjoyed this fall day so much....she didn't want to go inside! Who could blame her! We've been searing our buns off for the last 5 months....it's about time we had a day we could be outside without breaking into a sweat. Well....unless you are with me....then you will still see me sweat.....gotta love hormones! :-) Asha brought her coloring books and crayons outside and sat in the front yard coloring for a while. Then our friend "Uncle Ajay" came over and we all went to dinner at The Farm Grill. Yummy! We love that Fall is here! Hopefully it won't leave too soon! Last year on Halloween Asha was sweating and we had to take off her black tights that went with her Minnie Mouse costume because it was 88 degrees! Let's hope this year is a little cooler! Happy Fall everyone!

A good education is worth every penny...

2008-10-03T09:12:00.003-07:00

Mr. Spice to Asha: What did you learn at school today?

Asha to Mr. Spice: Umm....anything. [Translated...anything means....nothing.]

Mr. Spice to Asha: Well, what did your teacher, Ms. Chrissy, tell you today?

Asha to Mr. Spice: Don't put your finger in your nose. Use a tissue.

Perfect. See...this preschool thing is TOTALLY paying off! I just hope next week's topic is:
'Bugs are for outside....and NO, we cannot save them in a jar and keep them on the dining room table....because it causes an instant panic attack for your mother.'

I am off to colder weather for the weekend, Kittens. However, I plan on coming back renewed, refreshed and ready to blog....regularly. :-)

Makeover Part 2

2008-09-24T09:18:00.002-07:00

It's Astraea, AGAIN! I was not happy with Mrs. Spice's blog. I don't know if it was the colors or what, but the whole thing was blurry and a little tough on the eyes. Sorry, Spicey kittens. She's back! New and improved. NOW WE ALL WANT TO SEE HOUSE PICTURES!

Hope you love this house kids.....cause I'm never moving again!....

2008-09-17T13:59:00.016-07:00

Since May....life has felt like one big...roller coaster. The kind of roller coaster where you begin with a slow...long ascent....climbing....anticipation building....you look down and wonder if you can handle this.....and then....you get to the top.....and begin to drop.....very, very quickly.....and your stomach floats up somewhere around your throat.....and before you know what is happening you are twisting and turning and then....it's over...and you are left wondering....do you get in line again....or do you.....take a break and go get yourself a diet coke and a churro.

First....moving. We signed our papers on August 21st, and spent the week packing our apartment and cleaning our new house. I am so, so thankful that our new home had actually been cleaned professionally at some point. However, I wanted to clean it myself to erase the footsteps of the many Realtors and prospective buyers that had entered our home. I wanted to start clean and fresh....and odor free.

Here we are signing the closing documents on our very first home! What a day that was! We drove from Chandler to the Title Company in Litchfield Park and from there drove to North Phoenix to sign the homeowners insurance documents. Mr. Spice almost looks like he is drunk with power....or confusion....or fear. I love when you take only one picture of a memorable day...and it comes out bad. This picture isn't even bad...it's totally whack. It could not be less of a flattering angle of my face and 8 chins. Mr. Spice's eyes look weird. Asha looks like we just told her that we are adopting triplets....and they are sharing....her room. This is the craziest picture...I can't believe I even posted it. Oh well....Packing...I have such a new found respect for people who move often...like MBFD (My Best Friend, Dana) who moves every six years to two years...because the military can't make up it's mind where it wants them to live. I don't know how you do it, D!

Hey, don't forget this box! It's a cute one! Asha adopted this box as her "nest" and played bird while I packed and cleaned.
Moving Day...was a amazing. We were so blessed to have so many of our friends come to help. In fact...we had so many friends join us to help...that the entire moving process....was done in 2 hours. It was amazing.

Oh...funny story...on the day before we moved in...the city we moved too...put a speed radar post out in front of our house. So...after unloading the van...some of the guys decided this was a perfect opportunity to prove to themselves and each other...that they were indeed....part cheetah.
So, they lined up and took turns testing their strength and speed. Here is a picture of our friend Clint....who really is part cheetah....showing off his abilities. And then...it was Mr. Spice's turn. The good news is....Mr. Spice got the fastest speed out of all the guys. The bad news....he tripped...fell....slid....and became one with the asphalt.I heard yelling from outside...and just as I poked my head outside I heard a husband of one of our dear friends say, "Don't tell Mrs. Spice!" I started laughing and then realized that my husband....who was dripping blood....was missing the palms of his hands and one knee cap.
Here's Mikele pointing out the missing knee cap.

These pictures don't really do his injuries justice. Let me just say this....I bathed and fed my husband for 3 days....because he didn't have any use of his hands. He kept his hands and knee wrapped in gauze bandages for 2 weeks because they were deep, open...oooooozing....wounds. Don't you think it's a true test of a relationship when one of you has to "nurse" the other one back to health. :-) Let's just say.... I heard A LOT of nursing school drop-out jokes.

All in all....we LOVE our new home and we are so grateful to all the people that showed up to help.

There is a lot of change going on in life right now. New home. Friends moving. Changing churches. New routine. New job.

And since I adjust to change like a caged up wild animal.....it will take me a while to process everything....and write about it. But...it will come. It will come...

Hello Kittens.....I'm Back.....

2008-09-10T17:28:00.001-07:00

And now...Breaking News.....Mrs. Spice is no longer living like Laura Ingalls Wilder....she has.....a dishwasher.....an oven.....and.....INTERNET!

I’d like to take just a moment and give a shout out to all my homegirls and homeboys that I have been speaking too at Qwest for the last 2 ½ weeks.

First there was Malka....she wasn’t from “around here”....meaning....she was sitting in some foreign country where English was not her first.....or second language. Malka set me up with great phone service....and satellite television....but she forgot one teensy...weensy part of my order.....she forgot to place the order for internet.

But all was forgiven....Malka.....when I called to complain about you.....and spoke with Todd. Todd told me what a crazy person you must have been Malka....cause not only did you NOT place my order for internet....you closed my old account with Qwest and opened a new account....charging me a $200 early termination fee. ???? But don’t worry....Todd said he could save my day. In fact....he was so sure he could fix the problem....that he gave me his personal cell number to call if I had problems. And guess what? I had problems. Because....Todd.....you ALSO FORGOT TO PLACE MY ORDER FOR INTERNET! Isn’t that what you people do? You provide Customer Service. I...the customer call....and you....take care of the service. So, what’s the main malfunction, dude?

So, after Todd came my favorite of all. Paul. Paul not only sassed me when I told him of my frustration.....he played the “transfer game”......and transferred me to hold music....for about 20 minutes.....after which time....I got tired of waiting.....decided to call back later....and hung up.

But guess what happened about 2 minutes after I hung up? That’s right.....someone from Qwest called me back....and asked why we got disconnected. I told her that I hung up......she told me....”that was rude.” Um...what dimension am I living in? Because last time I checked....I was the customer.....and could hang up when I wanted too. AHHHH!

I asked this unpleasant woman to transfer me to another customer service representative to process my order. I was done with her.

Finally, I got Sassy Sylvia. Sylvia processed my order and “guaranteed” me that I would have internet....by....today. And I do. Here I am....back online.....back out of the dark ages. Hello email. Hello Facebook. Hello blogs. Hello World!

I have many, many updates and stories to come. Check back.....I missed you all!

Shhhhh.....Don't Tell....

2008-09-03T16:02:00.001-07:00

Hi kids...I am living dangerously and making this post using illegal internet. I know....I know...it's a side you haven't seen of Mrs. Spice....

We won't have internet service at our new house until Friday at the earliest....but you know the second I get it....I'll update ya'll.....with pictures! I have some hilarious stories....and updates about moving in.

We are doing great....and love, love, love being in our new home.

Okay...I hear sirens....I gotta go....

Almost Home

2008-08-27T17:44:00.004-07:00

My blog template has been bugging me for a while....I was ready for a makeover and I knew just the Gal to contact! Thank you Astrea for my lovely blog makeover! If you need invites, blog headers, stationary or announcements of any kind....contact Astrea! She is a pleasure to work with and a joy to chat with. Oh, and she also does Christmas cards! She is so talented! Hire her quick!

Ahhhh......it's almost over. We are almost home. Home....that word doesn't even sound real yet. I have had a lot of "homes" in the past years....but this will be the first time that my husband, daughter and I will find a patch of dirt, dig a small hole, shimmy ourselves into it and let our roots go crazy! I feel blessed. Blessed that this is not another apartment, not another house....but it's our home. The 4th home my daughter has known in her short 3 years of life. This phase of our lives is so important...much more than many of you will ever know. Not because it is a secret...but because we won't have a chance to share over a cup of coffee....for reasons of distance or because you are a blog stalker who has never made yourself known to me...

As the boxes pile up and my "to do" list grows...I take refuge in the fact that...it's almost over. That and that there is a wine refrigerator waiting for me at our new house.

3 more nights...and I will be home free. Get it...home....free? Geez...I've been packing people....not a lot of time for humor development while packing boxes.

Pictures are coming...not sure when....but as soon as I find which box my camera is packed in....

I really hope you didn't have a heart attack...

2008-08-24T23:43:00.003-07:00

It's Astraea. I was given the honor of making over Mrs. Spice's blog! I like to make things private while I work, so you don't see my mess! I hope nobody had a heart attack or got their feelings hurt while the blog was blocked! The Spice Crew is so not private anymore! I'm still working on the text colors, but I'll let you have a peek...

What's My Name?...

2008-08-19T18:42:00.002-07:00

The loan documents for our new home are complete and ready to be signed tomorrow. My head is spinning with a million different thoughts and feelings. We have a lot going on in our lives right now....and moving is only one piece of the puzzle.

When I become overwhelmed or stressed....I forget things. For example, I called the city utilities office today to set up water and trash services at our new home. The woman who was helping me asked me for a home phone number and my mind went blank. I had no idea what my home phone number was. I felt so dumb and for what seemed like 20 minutes, but was probably more like 2...as I struggled to recall the phone number we've used for 2 1/2 years. I could remember my home phone from when I was a kid growing up in California....but not my current phone number. Finally, I looked it up on another document and apologized. The lady helping me, Susan, was so kind and patient. I am an idiot.

Tonight I got caught up in packing and cleaning when finally Asha came to me and asked...."Mom, can I have a bath...I am really dirty." Wow. I actually don't remember when I last gave my child a bath....it wasn't last night....or the night before. Saturday? Geez....someone call CPS. Good thing my 3 1/2 year old is going on 12.....and can care for herself. I just hope she put gas in the car when she went out alone this afternoon.

I will be very excited when we are done with packing and unpacking....and moving....and signing documents with large dollar amounts on them. I look forward to being settled in our new home....so I can focus on other things.....and start to remember who I am.

Welcome to Preschool...Please Don't Eat the Paint, Glue or Crayons...

2008-08-13T16:13:00.003-07:00

Asha started preschool yesterday. She was very, very excited. She walked in the front door like she owned the place. She is fiercely independent so I knew she would be fine. I knew if any tears would be shed....they would probably come from me. But I didn't cry. I celebrated!
Asha wore a pink dress and wanted a pink bow in her hair. Her teacher, Ms. Chrissy, was so warm and welcomed all of the kids in the room with hugs and/or hand shakes.
Asha ran in the room and immediately started playing with the toys. The window by Asha's head is actually a two-way mirror so you can observe your child screaming..."NO!" at another adult besides yourself. It's like a gift to the parents.
Everyday Ms. Chrissy writes the daily agenda on a board outside the classroom. That way when I ask Asha..."what did you do at school today?" and she says, "nothing"....I know that she is.... lying. As you can see from the board yesterday....they had an action packed day planned. Asha was very excited about all the learning. After I picked her up she proudly listed all the words that begin with "A".
Asha loved playing dinosaurs with the boys and playing in the kitchen with the girls. She kept herself very busy.
So....what did I do with my newly found time on my hands? I drank a cup of coffee and read a book....uninterrupted...in complete silence.....it was heaven. I am so happy for Asha because I know that she will thrive in her new school. She will make new friends and learn new stuff....like.... how to sit quietly for more than 3 seconds at a time. Love you Asha!

Get the bar of soap ready.....for Mom and Dad?

2008-08-06T16:57:00.004-07:00

We have the joy....until we move....of having Mr. Spice/Daddy come home for lunch most days. Yesterday, Mr. Spice came home and while the three of us prepared lunch in the kitchen, Mr. Spice began to tell me a story about work. While telling me the story he said, "Oh, shoot." Asha...shocked, whipped around and said, "Excuse me Daddy, but we do not say oh shoot. We say oh my goodness." Mr. Spice took his scolding well and thanked her for the reminder. Then Asha said, "Oh, and Daddy we don't say stupid or dork, either."

Fine. As long as we can curse like sailors....we won't say stupid or dork.

3 New Additions to the Spice Family...

2008-08-06T14:31:00.005-07:00

That's right...we have 3 new members of the Spice Family. One is white, two are black and they are very cute. They are a refrigerator, washer and dryer. Choosing appliances has actually been more of a terrifying experience than enjoyable for me. I wish it was different. The entire process has been one giant leap of faith. But never fear....we will now have cold food and clean clothes in our new home.

So the only appliance we are missing is a dishwasher.... As well as ceiling fans and lights for the inside and outside. But....since our money tree shriveled up and died after buying the house....and appliances.....and such......we will wait on the dishwasher. That's right folks....we are going back in time to when I grew up....without a dishwasher....when my sister and I would listen to the radio while washing and drying the dishes together. Life without a dishwasher should be interesting...but we'll be fine. Don't get me wrong...I am counting down the days until we get a dishwasher....but I think washing dishes by hand for a while will help me remember all the blessings God has given us.....all while giving me extremely soft hands.

We are set to close on our house on August 21st....if everything stays on schedule. But we are also very flexible and understand that it may be later. We are excited and nervous all at the same time. I have to admit....it is very exciting to own appliances. Don't worry...we totally know how big of a responsibility it is....and we won't let you down. We'll give them plenty of fresh water and lots of room to play in.

So, come on over and enjoy something cold or frozen....and heck....bring your laundry.....you can even do that too!

Watch out City of Gilbert Community Theater....Here she comes!...

2008-07-31T11:27:00.002-07:00

Yesterday...while waiting our turn at the DMV....two mothers and their young toddlers came to sit by Asha and I. At one point Asha turned to the almost 2 year old little boy and said...

Asha: Hi, my name is Asha. What's your name?

Little boy in DMV: Isaiah

Asha...grabbing my arm: Oh, and this is Holly.

Uh...what? She's only 3 1/2....and already embarrassed that I am her Mother. I can't wait until she starts preschool in two weeks....and asks me to drop her off a block away from school....so her friends don't have to know that her parents still drive her to school......yeah...not like those cool 3 year olds who get to take the bus or ride their Hot Wheels!

Then...after the lovely introduction...Asha precedes to tell the other two mothers that her birthday is tomorrow and she'll be turning 4. What? She just turned three in March.....so while the kind....innocent Mother's begin to wish her a Happy Birthday.....I shake my head and think.....what is wrong with this child? Where did she come from.....where the heck did these dramatics come from?......and am I going to be a stage Mom while she pursues her dreams in community theater? I'll be hanging out backstage smoking cigarettes* and doing her homework while she plays Little Orphan Annie. After the show she'll sign autographs and her audience will ask her where she got the emotion to play such a remarkable Annie.....and she'll work up a single tear to roll down her cheek.....and say, "It's my life...I'm really an orphan."

So, she's already lying about her age? Great. I guess I should start doing room searches and looking for fake five year old I.D.'s. I just thought I had more time. All right...I've got to go do her "random" urinary drug testing now...

*Uh, just to clarify for those that might be confused....I don't smoke anything...I've actually never smoked a cigarette in my life. I've done plenty of other crazy things....don't worry.

Home....Sweet.....Mother.....Lovin'.....Home

2008-07-29T21:21:00.000-07:00

We bought a house. Not just any house....a house we love. About 5 months ago we began the search...we hired a lovely Realtor....who is darn good at her job I might add.....and we began to look.....we looked at new builds....we looked at preexisting homes....we looked at newer built homes....we looked at very old homes.....we looked at homes that would need thousands and thousands of dollars to be livable....we spent hours and days searching....but we just didn't find "the one...."

And then....one day...while looking at a lot of "okay" houses.......I saw it....."the one".....I walked in the front door....looked around.....saw the master bathroom and said, "What do we have to do....to get this house?" We were home. Fortunately, Mr. Spice also liked it....because that would have been awkward.....to live separately.....but for this house....I would have done it. The house is perfect for our family. It has just the right amount of space....just the right amount of everything.

This house is complete and total gift from God. If you know anything about Mr. Spice and I's story...you will know exactly how amazing this is.....that less than 4 years after we got married....we are buying our first home.

Okay....so the spec's on the house......you want to know....right? Here's the rundown....

Single story.....3 bedrooms.....2.5 bathrooms....1652 square feet.....Granite counter tops....maple cabinets....tile floors.....good carpet.....lovely front porch....white picket fence......HUGE park across the street.....playground 3 doors down......birds nest in the front yard.....it's just lovely.After we found out we got the house....our fabulous Realtor, Kristi, her 3 kids, our family and my Mom went and had breakfast there one morning. It was so fun to walk around and think that this was our house.
One of the most fun things about our new house is Asha's room. The entire house is painted white.....except for one room painted with stars.....in.....get this.....glitter paint. It's not exactly the color palate I would have chosen.....but what a sweet gift from God....that we can set up Asha's room and make it home for her....without even having to paint. She loves it!!!
Every time we go and visit "our" house....Asha runs to her room and rolls around on the carpet. She is so excited to move in.
I knew this was our house when I saw this......I heard a chorus of angels.....and I knew.....I was home. This is the master bathtub....don't worry....I will rent it out.....
I only have a few pictures to show you....but don't worry....I'll show you more....or better yet.....why don't you just come over....and see it for yourself! I love visitors.....who help unpack....and love to paint.....I just love those kind of visitors.

Oh, I am so humbly blessed with this house....what an Awesome God we serve....to take a family who started in such turmoil and transition.....and give us a home of our very own. Thank you Lord.

So come on over....and stay awhile.....it would be so nice to have you.

Welcome to Operation:Don't Eat Paste...

2008-07-28T07:57:00.012-07:00

So last night we did a little Kindergarten hazing for Ameilia....whose first day of the rest of her life...is today. What better welcome into kindergarten can you have then 3 of your Mom's friends sneaking around your house and acting crazy at 10:00 at night? But hey...we left cookies....so that should make up for any nightmares she has.

Before I give you the time line of last night's events...there are a few honorary mentions...of friends who could not join us last night....but where with us in spirit. Heather provided the lovely cookies. And Jen was going to be there with us...but...due to....well....let's just blame Mikele......who will then in turn blame her Mom....Jan.....so I guess Jen's absence is the fault of Jan.

Okay....now....on to....Operation:Don't Eat Paste...

So first we had to sneak up REALLY quietly....especially because we new that Nanny and Papa Criddle....were sleeping in the front room....

Shhhhh......
Here's our sweet sign done by Mr. Spice that says..."Have Fun in Kindergarten Amelia!" Robyn blew up all those balloons in the car while I drove....I was a little worried she was gonna pass out...but she made it through! Mikele printed off cute pictures of Amelia in different ages and stages and we attached them to the sign. She's growing up so fast!!!

No tasting Mikele.....those cookies are for Amelia! I am proud to say...that no cookies were harmed or eaten during this Kindergarten Hazing...
This is so much fun...We Love You Amelia!!!
Uh....Hey...Guys....there is a dark figure walking towards us....OH NO...Caught in the act! Scott caught us as he was coming home from church....he saw us and snuck up behind us.....he gave us a little startle.
It was a great Operation and we had a really fun time hazing Amelia.

But to get the full report....let's see what our reporter has to say...

2008 Summer Mix Tape is Here!!!!

2008-07-23T14:27:00.001-07:00

Uhhh.....I think I'll sit this one out.....thanks....

2008-07-18T17:00:00.005-07:00

Okay, so the pool in which we take swimming lessons and water aerobics was closed this week because 45 miles away.....in another City of Phoenix.....this......cryptosporidium.......was found. Sick. And even though it wasn't found in our particular pool.....it freaked the city out enough to close all 29 pools and test them. And even though.....I have missed swimming terribly....I am grateful for the city's quick action in not wanting Asha and I to end up with the Tijuana Trots.

With rumors that the pool would reopen this weekend, I checked the website for more information. And more information....than I wanted.....was what I got! The website let us know that the pool would indeed be reopening on Saturday....however, the city has some guidelines it wants us to follow.....

Sick.....

For all swimmers:

Please don’t swim when you have diarrhea. You can spread germs in the water and make other people sick. This is especially important for kids in diapers. Anyone that has had symptoms of intestinal illness including diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps should not swim in any pool for at least two weeks after their symptoms have disappeared.

Please don’t swallow the pool water. In fact, avoid getting water in your mouth.

Please practice good hygiene. Take a shower before swimming and wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers. Germs on your body end up in the water.

For parents of young kids:

Please take your kids on bathroom breaks or check diapers often. Waiting to hear "I have to go" may mean that it’s too late.

Please change diapers in a bathroom or a diaper-changing area and not at poolside. Germs can spread to surfaces and objects in and around the pool and cause illness.

Please wash your child thoroughly (especially the rear end) with soap and water before swimming. Everyone has invisible amounts of fecal matter on their bottoms that ends up in the pool.

People....if any of these guidelines seem....new....to you......then I can only say.....SICK! It's the last one that really, really gets me. I cannot possibly swim knowing that.....I can't even write it.....or cut/paste it....it sickens me. Why....in 2008.....when we have magical inventions....such as anti-bacterial lotions.....and soap.....do people still need to be told....to bathe........especially before swimming in a public pool.

Well, I guess I'll have to continue home-schooling Asha in our pool. I feel bad for her.....because I am the worst swimming teacher ever.....maybe it has something to do with my method......of sitting in a lounge chair reading a magazine and drinking IZZE's....while she holds onto the side of the pool. Naaahhhh.

Oohhh, oohhh, I forgot to mention......last week Asha was practicing her underwater swimming and she took in too much water and threw up in the pool. Oh my goodness.....I have never seen a pool clear out so fast. I looked up to the 16 year old life guard and asked her what I should do to help clean the water.....and she shrugged her shoulders at me. Then she called some of the junior lifeguards over with a big ole fishing net to clean out the chunks. It was hilarious....and a little gross at the same time. But don't you worry folks....because when she threw up....she was leaned down into my swim suit top......so I caught most of it. Ahhh....good times.

Okay, kids....put on your suits....and turn on the sprinklers....it's time to learn the backstroke.....poolside....of course.

This may be the closest I ever get to being a Baywatch Babe...

2008-06-30T15:52:00.005-07:00

This summer has been full of swimming. We are in the pool everyday....sometimes twice a day. And since it is usually around 110-114 degrees outside....being in the water is a great option. Asha takes swimming lessons from 11:00-11:45am every morning. And while she is learning to swim...I am feelin' the burn...in water aerobics.

Having never taken a water aerobics class, I was hesitant in the beginning. Certainly being in public in my bathing suit...has never been a comfortable place for me....let alone...working out....in my bathing suit...in public. But...that is the power of friends....they have a way of encouraging you to participate. Oh, that and I have some excess "padding" I need to burn off. Padding...that's what my OB/GYN called it the first time he tried to find Asha's heartbeat. He said, "We probably won't hear the baby's heartbeat for a while because of your extra padding." Padding....as if to somehow imply that should I ever be catapulted into the side of a building...I would be fine....thanks to my padding. All you skinny, padding-less people beware....stay away from catapults and buildings in general.

So, Katie, Mikele, Gaynor, Heather and I spend our mornings doing things like "cowboys and hoops.....explosions and hacky-sacs." Things I never would imagine myself doing....but I enjoy it. Our 19 year old teacher, Aimee, is so kind and helps remind us how much older we really are than she is by counting down from 5 every time we switch exercises. "Cowboys....in 5....4.....3....2...1." It really is helpful....except when you get so wrapped up in conversation that you totally miss what exercise we are doing and all you hear is....in 5....4....3....2....1.....and then you quickly try and decipher what Aimee's legs are doing underwater.....from 10 feet away. All in all....I love the class and I love the company. It's a blessing in every way.

Why my daughter will need therapy....but know how to swim...

2008-06-25T15:54:00.000-07:00

My cardboard testimony would read....

2008-06-08T15:34:00.002-07:00

Front: Tried to live life without God...

Back: Learned...He is the Way, the Truth and the Life.

What would your cardboard testimony say?

Summer is here....

2008-06-05T11:51:00.001-07:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

ASU Softball Team Dominates to Win National Championship!!!

2008-06-03T19:33:00.003-07:00

Congratulations to the ASU Sun Devil Softball team for beating Texas A & M to win the College World Series! Congrats to Coach Myers and his lovely wife Katey! We love you guys! Go Devils!

On a lighter and shorter note...

2008-05-29T14:28:00.001-07:00

My Dad sent me this one...

Local Bar Sues Local Church

In a small Texas town, a new bar/tavern started a building to open up their business. The local Baptist church started a campaign of petitions and prayers to block the bar from opening.

Work progressed, however right up till the week before opening, when a lightning strike hit the bar and it burned to the ground.The church folks were rather smug in their outlook after that, till the bar owner sued the church on the grounds that the church was ultimately responsible for the demise of his building, either through direct or indirect actions or means. The church vehemently denied all responsibility or any connection to the building's demise in its reply to the court.

As the case made its way into court, the judge looked over the paperwork. At the hearing he commented, 'I don't know how I'm going to decide this, but as it appears from the paperwork, we have a bar owner who believes in the power of prayer, and an entire church congregation that doesn't.'

There Should Be 5 Of Us Right Now....

2008-05-26T17:12:00.009-07:00

*This post is based on actual recent events. The timeline of these events is a blur. Due to a mixture of exhaustion and grief....I did my best. For this post I have chosen to use Mr. Spice's real name, Umesh. He deserves the recognition. It is a long post. I did not write it for the readers, I wrote it because the story needed to be told.*

This post is in honor of Sudha Davidas Nayak.

This past Saturday night Umesh, Asha and I were celebrating over dinner. We were celebrating two major events. The first, we finally, finally figured out how to grill chicken kabobs without either burning them or leaving them raw. It was a joyous occasion. The second, we were going house hunting the next day with our VHR (very hot realtor)....I think it's even on her business cards. Our discussion of what we wanted in our new home while dining on our perfectly cooked chicken and vegetables, was interrupted by a phone call. The phone call was from Umesh's boss who was on a business trip in Boston. He had just received word that one of Umesh's co-workers, Dave, who was on a road trip to Las Vegas had just been in an accident. He didn't know many details, but something was wrong. Umesh hung up with his boss. Our celebration was over.

Umesh immediately tried to called Dave. There was no answer so Umesh tried calling another Dave's roommate, also a coworker. At this point Dave was still on the side of the road. He was driving with his parents and there was an accident. It had started to snow....and not being an experienced driver, he slid on a patch of ice and overcompensated turning the opposite way of the slide......the car jerked and they flipped up into the air and rolled 3 times. Dave's Mom, Sudha, was sleeping in the backseat at the time, without her seat belt.....she was thrown from the car.....and was in and out of consciousness.....and then.....she died.....right there on the side of the road.

Dave's parents arrived a week ago from India. They had come for Dave's graduation from Cal State Long Beach, this Friday. Dave, their only son, had arranged to take them on a road trip to Las Vegas and show them the Grand Canyon during their time here. He was so excited they were here, he was graduating with his Master's degree, had his first job, bought a brand new car.....he was so excited to show them all he had accomplished.

As soon as Umesh heard the details of the accident, he knew he had to go. All though we did not know the extent of Dave and his Dad's injuries....we knew they would be in shock from the loss of their Mother and Wife. So Umesh turned to me and said, "I have to go, can you come too?" Umesh called his boss and told him that he and I would leave immediately and drive to Flagstaff.

I called my parents to see if we could drop Asha off at their house. They were just sitting down for dinner at the Wrigley Mansion. Yikes....of all the places! It couldn't have been the Olive Garden, could it? Sorry Mom and Dad! Anyways, they graciously left their dinner and went home to receive Asha. From the time Umesh got the phone call until the time we dropped Asha off at my parents and were on our way to Flagstaff, it had only been one hour.

During the drive from Chandler to North Phoenix to drop Asha at my parents, a dear friend was working to find any available hotel rooms for us in Flagstaff. It was a miracle she found any.....being Memorial Day weekend in the mountains. I know it wasn't easy for her, but she did it and found us two hotel rooms if not for sleeping, for showering and making phone calls.

The drive from Phoenix to Flagstaff consisted of lots of coffee and music to keep us awake. We knew it would be a long night and we weren't counting on sleeping. Umesh and I created a game plan.....as soon as Dave and his Dad were released from the hospital, we would take them to the hotel where they could shower and rest and prepare for the drive back to Phoenix. This plan was made not knowing what we were driving into....were Dave and his Dad okay? I remember thinking....maybe they made a mistake. Maybe Sudha is still alive and they only thought she was dead. Maybe this is all a bad dream. It was not.

Umesh and I had several purpose's in going to Flagstaff. First and foremost, we were there to comfort Dave and his Dad. Second, we were there to help guide them through decisions in their state of shock. Third and most importantly, we were there to translate the culture between the doctors, DPS, nurses, medical examiner, hotel staff....etc... That was the easiest challenge for Umesh and I, being familiar with the culture, however, the most difficult for small-mountain-town folks to understand.

Upon arrival to the hospital, the first thing Umesh and I noticed was the weather. Umesh quickly parked the car and we jumped out into the 28 degree weather wearing jeans, flip-flops and sweatshirts. The cold was paralyzing. It was windy and icy. We ran from the car to the Emergency Room. I asked around and finally a staff member went and got Dave. As the door opened and he saw my face, he fell into me and began to sob. He could barely stand up. I was using all of my might to hold up this man, sobbing on my shoulder because he had just lost his Mother to a car accident...in a car he was driving. He shook and sobbed. Umesh and I consoled him and after a few minutes asked him to take us to his Dad. Dave's Dad was fine...he had a minor concussion and some scratches....but nothing serious. However, minutes before we reached the hospital his Dad had an anxiety attack...so the doctors decided to keep him overnight. Dave was in a state of shock and terror. He was terrified that his Dad was going to die. He refused to leave the hospital. Umesh and I urged him to get as much rest as possible and call us if he needed us. The ER was crowded and Umesh and I could not stay the entire night. So around 1:30am, Umesh and I left and checked into our hotel room. We barely slept, tossing and turning....waking up to hug each other. We had just been reminded how precious life is and how short it can be. I remember falling asleep around 4:45am.

6:30am - Dave calls to ask us to come back to the hospital. He is exhausted and scared. He doesn't want to be alone. His father is going to be discharged that morning, but Dave tells us he doesn't want his father to leave the hospital. We comfort him and urge him to trust the doctors. They have done MRI's and blood work, his Dad is fine. Dave is so unsure. His Mother is gone...he is terrified to lose his Dad. Umesh and I spend hours trying to comfort and ease his fears. In between comforting Dave, I talk to the nurses to determine where Dave's Mother's body is, who the DPS officer in charge of the case is, and where the car and their personal belongings are. I make phone calls and try to find out as much as possible. Being a holiday weekend made it more challenging....but God gave me a strong will and a confrontational personality...which when combined with God's love...can be very helpful! I found out where his mother was....Prescott.....where the car was....Prescott....and where his personal belongings were.....with the car. However, because of the holiday...nothing could be done until Tuesday...at the earliest. This confirmed my urges...to return to Phoenix.

Before we left our house, Umesh had the brilliant thought of bringing a bag of clothes for Dave and his Dad. At the time I didn't think anything of it. But when it was time for Dave and his Dad to be discharged from the hospital...they had nothing. The clothes they were wearing in the accident had been cut off of them by the medics. And their suitcases were with the car...in Prescott. So Umesh brought in the bag of clothes for them. We had forgotten shoes and shirts, but remembered pants and sweatshirts.

We left the hospital and drove to the hotel. It was an empty, sad drive. The adrenaline was beginning to wear off and Dave was beginning to process what had happened. He was distant and emotional. We dropped Dave and his Dad off at the hotel room and ran to Target to buy them some shoes, shirts, ibuprofen and bottled water. Dave called to check on us, still very nervous about people leaving him. After returning to the hotel, Dave and his Dad took turns showering while we waited with them in their room. Finally, Umesh and I left to go downstairs to our room and collect our stuff.

24 hours after the accident, we were returning to Phoenix. The drive home was more exhausting and emotional than I was prepared for. Words were not spoken, but the silence was deafening. The whole drive I prayed and prayed. And I just kept looking to the back seat thinking....this isn't right....there should be five of us in this car right now. We returned back to Phoenix tired and drained. After a long day of no sleep, shock and tragedy....we knew it would not be over for a while.

Umesh, Dave, Dave's Father and several other coworkers left for Prescott today to have his mother's body cremated. They had a small service and then returned. Dave and his Father will leave tomorrow for his graduation from Cal State Long Beach. Next week, they will return to India for a formal funeral.

Umesh has been amazing. This event has brought up memories of a tragedy in his own family...yet, he stepped up and has been with Dave and his Dad every single day since the phone call. He is so strong and steady on his feet, never thinking of himself, only doing his best to love his friend. I am so proud of him and love him so very much.

If you have actually read this entire story, I ask you to pray for Dave and his father. Pray that God would use this event to help them see their need for a Savior. Pray for healing and comfort. For all of us.

***Umesh and I owe a giant thank you to a very special friend. I know that she would not want recognition or mention. However, without her, we would not have been able to help Dave and his Dad as much as we did. Thank you Friend, you know who you are!

SYTYCD???? AND...Welcome to another new fish in our aquarium!

2008-05-23T12:50:00.008-07:00

Oh, Kittens....it's that time of year again....So You Think You Can Dance premiered last night. Don't tell me you forgot about this....joyous occasion? You all saw it, right? I mean...I feel really ready this season. I've been training....I've been sweating....I took what I learned last season and improved so much......now when I watch it....I watch it with friends....and food. See, soooo much growth from last season where I watched it alone....and then called Jen to talk about it.

Last night Rachel, Jen, Kim and I gathered at Jen's house for a little SYTYCD premiere party! It was great. So great we decided we should keep watching it together. Please join us if you can! The best part is....you don't even have to know how do dance.....you only have to THINK you can dance!

One more thing Kittens....

Just want to give a quick plug to a new blogger friend, Breanna. She is at: http://www.breezy4sheezy.blogspot.com/

Breanna is a sweet, lovely kitten who works with my Mom at Phoenix Cemetery.....ooops...I mean Phoenix Seminary. She and her very tall husband also work with a ministry called CARES. Check out her blog for more info...it's really interesting.

One quick note....Breanna and her husband don't have children....yet.....so they sleep when they want.....whenever, they freakin' want. Isn't that great, kittens? They get to sleep.....no hard feelings...I am really happy for them.....really....really.

Welcome to the blog world Breanna!

It's A Boy!....And I didn't even need an epidural this time!

2008-05-17T14:48:00.004-07:00

No, I am not pregnant. I swear people....IF I ever got pregnant....it will be such a miracle....that I will call each and every one of you....in person....even though I don't know some of you....I would find you.....it would be THAT big of a miracle.

Okay, seriously, we adopted a boy. Well, he's actually a grown man. A soldier in the U.S. Armed Forces. To protect his identity I don't want to give his real name so I decided to call him....Joe....as in GI Joe....so creative, I know. We adopted him through an organization called Soldiers' Angels. They have many, many ways to support our troops.

Anyways, Joe is stationed in Iraq and is supposed to be there until May 2009....or if Hillary becomes President....he'll be back next week......or....if McCain becomes President he'll be there until 2029....or if Obama becomes President he'll be there until Obama's first scandal hits and he pulls the troops home to make nice with all the American people. And kittens.....those past few statements may give you the impression that when it comes to politics I know what I am talking about.....but please wipe that illusion out of your brain. I have no idea what I am talking about when it comes to politics. I am the poster child for the worst US Citizen ever!!!

I am very excited to have Joe as part of our family. Especially because he won't want to borrow the car and he won't eat us out of house and home. Oh, and more importantly, I don't have to do his laundry.....as far as I know....if he starts sending it to us from Iraq....Lord help him.

We don't know a whole lot about Joe....yet. We look forward to getting to know him over the next year or so. Our responsibilities for Joe are as follows....we have to send him at least 1 letter per week and and least 1 care package per month. It sounds like a lot....but when I thought about everything he is doing and sacrificing to serve and protect our country.....it's the least I can do. Besides....it totally makes up for the fact that I am not voting this year! Seriously, I am not voting and please, please do not try and convince me otherwise....I have my reasons....and they are really well thought out.....or at least that is what the magic 8 ball said when I asked it if I should vote and then shook it.....the response was, "Outlook not so good."

Anyways, so I wrote GI Joe our first letter introducing ourselves. It is awkward to introduce yourself through a letter to someone you don't know. You don't want to tell him too much....in case he thinks your a crazy......but you want to tell him enough to give him a good idea of his new family....without wanting a new family right away.

I basically told him that we are a small, simple family who likes quiet nights at home....reciting Shakespeare and Tennyson. I sit at my husbands feet and crochet doilies for the end tables.....while my husband smokes his pipe and reads the evening newspaper. Our young daughter is busy with her Pre-Pre-Pre-K studies. She just finished writing her first novel and is sure to begin it's prequel soon.

So as you can see, I stuck to the truth....and just told the basics about us.....nothing too intimidating.

We look forward to praying for and encouraging Joe as a family. I hope our relationship will give us ample opportunity to share Christ's love and hope while supporting him during his stay in Iraq. I also hope he comes to appreciate Shakespeare.....and all the freakin' doilies he'll be receiving....

The Kids Are Back....

2008-05-16T18:13:00.003-07:00

When they told me they would love me forever...I knew they meant it. I got my first NKOTB (New Kids On The Block) cassette tape when I was 10....22 years ago. Scary. I had pictures of them plastered on my bedroom wall. I collected every Tiger Beat magazine they were in. I thought I loved Joey McIntyre. Then...I really thought I loved Mark Wahlberg....Donnie's brother. One time....for whatever reason....the cassette player on my boom box wasn't working....so I sat in our Datsun station wagon to listen to my NKOTB and Milli Vanilli. My love for Milli Vanilli was short lived....for obvious reasons. But so help you...if you ever invite me to karaoke and then dive under the table when I start singing, Blame it on the Rain.

You better believe that on October 13th...when NKOTB come to Phoenix on their reunion tour....I will be a 32 year old lame-o dancing in the crowd...with all the other 30-somethings that should be institutionalized. But I am not ashamed...I own the fact that I love the NKOTB.

And so I leave you with a gift....a gift that keeps on giving...

A Reason to Shop.....

2008-05-07T10:23:00.004-07:00

My Best Friend Dana has started her own business.....LuccaLove. She makes the most adorable hair clips. They are great quality and super cute.

She is now selling her hair clips on http://www.etsy.com/. By the way...if you have not shopped on Etsy.com......get with the program, kittens! The site is composed of handmade items from purses to dead rapper coasters.....it doesn't get any better. It's cute stuff and most of the sellers are Mom's.....just like us!

Our good blogger friend Astrea worked her graphic design magic and did all of the graphics for LuccaLove.

Wow....there are a lot of creative juices running around here.....well, not here as in....my house here.....but here as in the blog world. My creative juices consist of making sure that Asha's clothes match.....that job alone pretty much drains me......

So go buy some hair clips and blog banners......and consider it your good deed for the day.

Feelin' Funky-Fresh...

2008-05-05T15:14:00.005-07:00

Well, folks, after dodging several bags of flaming poo thrown at my door for not updating.....I am back. I've been in a bit of a "funk"....lately. A little hormonal imbalance....a little weight gain.....a little spiritually.....fragile...........and a little down. I tried to fix it all with desserts. Which is what got me no where but a few cupcakes farther from my goal of total health perfection. Guess I'll have to put the bikini back into the closet for next summer.

Overall, I think the hormone thing is the worst. As I have mentioned before....I have...issues. My body actually has two brains. One in my head....and then my uterus has it's own brain and functions independently of the rest of my body. Before I got pregnant.....4 years ago.....I didn't care about hormone imbalances. I just ignored them. However, since putting my body through pregnancy and all that comes with it.....hormonally speaking....my entire reproductive system has grown horns, a tail and turned to the dark side. I won't go into much further detail because I know that there are people reading this post right now....clutching their hearts and throwing up a little in their mouths. So the rest of you will just have to wait until my book, Life With A Spicy Uterus is released for the rest of the details. Look for it in the Self-Help section.

I also needed to take a little time to be with the Lord. I've shouted to Him, shouted at Him, cried to Him, and brought Him some tough issues. And...it's ok.....He can take it. In fact He wants us to bring Him stuff we can't handle.....so I did. He hasn't answered everything...and maybe He won't....but I will continue to seek Him...and find comfort in Him....that is for sure. Besides...seeking comfort in Christ rather than cupcakes.....WAY fewer calories and WAY more satisfying.

We have been house hunting again. We are now considering building a new home. Nothing is for sure. We have yet to see a floor plan that rocks our world. Correction.....we have yet to see a floor plan in our price range......that has rocked our world. We have raised our price range since our last hunt for a spicy casa began last October. We now realize that to get what we want in a home....we will have to actually pay for it. We were going to try squatting in model homes for a while....but gave up when we realized that we would have to be gone all day....where am I supposed to watch Dr. Phil?

Asha has been....how should I say this......asserting her strong will lately. She likes to do things her way and on her watch. And that would be fine....if she was a 25 year old living on her own and paying her own bills. But....she is 3 and lives with her parents.....which means....we are the bosses of her. I am not interested in being her friend. When she starts paying a third of the bills....then we can be friends.....but for now....I am Mom....she is Preschool Spice. Done. It's obey on the first try.....we don't count to 3 or 10 or 99......she gets one attempt to obey.....or it's discipline time. She has definitely stepped up her game since turning 3.....but guess what Lovey....so has Mommy and Daddy. Yay! All that said....Asha is exhausting me. It takes everything in me some days to not just get in the car.....and drive to the airport.....and buy a one-way ticket to Cancun. I imagine myself laying on the beach with a frosty beverage in my hand and a cabana boy bringing me a message that says...."What should I feed Asha for dinner? Love, Mr. Spice." And then my dream in a bubble pops.....and I am jolted back into the present where my sweet angel of a 3 year old is lying limp on the ground because I had the nerve to ask her to clean her room.

Overall, I am fine. My funk is gone....for now.....sure to return.....someday. But for now I am getting excited for summer.....did I say that out loud? Swimming lessons, days where I question if the earth can actually handle the outside temperature of 120 degrees, VBS, movies, burning patches of skin off my body when gently touched by the metal part of the seat belt, popsicles, and lots of fun with friends.

Thursday, Asha, my Mom and I are off to Boise, Idaho. No, you da ho. Ahhh.....that one never does get old. We will be visiting my Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. Asha hasn't been there since she was 8 months old. Wow, they are in for a treat. She may be cuter....but she talks now folks.....and trust me.....rainbows and butterflies don't come shooting out of her mouth every time she opens it. Asha is excited to ride the airplane and see the sites.....I am looking forward to seeing all of the family members.

So, my little kittens....I have officially left Funkytown......on a one-way ticket....I hope....

Tagged....For The Very First Time..... (Sung to the tune of "Like a Virgin")

2008-04-14T21:04:00.006-07:00

This is so exciting. My first official tag...thanks for the lovin' Katie!

What was I doing 10 years ago?
During the summer I worked as a camp counselor at Forest Home Christian Camp in California and during the school year I worked as a Dorm Counselor at a private boarding school in Paradise Valley, Arizona.

5 things on today’s to do list:

Go to Kelly Lord's house.....(She needs to start a blog!)
Write a paper on transcription and translation of genetic coding of DNA to a protein......(Yes, really)
Finish the "Thank-You" notes from Asha's birthday party...(almost 4 weeks ago...hee....hee)
Use incorrect punctuation and grammar just to make Fun Kristi crazy! :-)

5 snacks I enjoy:

Ice Cream....(Vanilla, Coffee, Cookie-Dough, Heath Bar, Mint Chip, Strawberry....)
Raw vegetables
Caramel anything
BBQ chips
Hummus

5 things I would do if I became a billionaire:

Buy a house. (4 bed/2 bath....nothin' fancy ya'll)
Give to missionaries and pastors around the world....(God Bless them all!)
Save for Asha's college years....(hopefully, it will only take her 4...unlike my 8)
A vacation home in Bora Bora.....(never been there...just looks cool)
Go to India......(on the way to our vacation home in Bora Bora)
#6....Get a lot of cosmetic surgery...(not kidding. Can I get an Amen, Fun Kristi?)

5 bad habits:

Eating when I am not hungry.....(OR, I am hungry all the time...I haven't decided yet...)
I am easily distracted.....(Hey, did you see that Stephanie from Full House had a baby?)
Not cleaning the bathroom floors....(I HATE hair on the floor....especially "mystery hair"....and frankly, isn't all hair on the floor mystery hair?)
Watching a lot of reality t.v.........(Amazing Race, Survivor, Big Brother, Top Chef, The Hills, Project Runway, ....etc....etc.....etc.....)
Not folding clean laundry.....(HATE IT....I'll wash it...but can someone else fold it and put it away?)

5 places I’ve lived:

Mount Hermon, California
Phoenix, Arizona
Paradise Valley, Arizona
Tempe, Arizona
Chandler, Arizona

5 jobs I’ve had:

Dorm Counselor at a Boarding School....(Crazy experience.....lot's of stories)
Camp Counselor.......(What's up D-Dog!)
Worked at a Florist........(Good times, eh...Jen?)
Assistant at the Arizona Sexual Assault Network.....(Worst boss I ever had....)
Case Manager at Save the Family......(Favorite job.....sad to leave.....miss you Brant!)

"Theeeeeir Heeeere!"

2008-04-08T19:54:00.007-07:00

We have some new tenants at our house. At one time I actually swore that I would never allow them to come into our home. But...in a moment of weakness....I gave in. They don't take up a lot of space but they come with a lot of baggage. Baggage that in my opinion....is a pain to keep track of. But...they are here and most likely...they are here to stay.

Allow me to introduce you to...Barbie and Friends...So Asha and I are driving in the car the other day and we were on a long stretch of freeway where she usually falls asleep.

From the quiet of the backseat I hear, "Mom? Can we go to the store and buy new dolls?"

"You have dolls at home."

"Not those kind of dolls. Different dolls."

"What kind of dolls do you want?"

"The kind where you can change the clothes and hats."

"Your dolls have clothes and hats."

"No, not baby dolls."

"Oh. Okay. Well, you'll have to show me what you mean."

"Can we buy the dolls at the store?"

"I guess. You got a couple of gift cards from Target. You can one if you want."

So later that night we pick up Mr. Spice from work and Asha asks him the same question about buying new dolls at the store. So we decide to go to Target. I think more out of curiosity. I really wanted to know what she was talking about. I assumed she was thinking of Polly Pocket and her world of minute pieces that can only be seen with a microscope. "Nope, not these." Okay....what about these baby dolls? "Nope, not yet."

Finally, we get to the aisle where Barbie lives. Her face lit up immediately and she turned facing the dolls with her arms outstretched and said, "Here they are. These are what I mean."
Wow. Okay. Breathe. Barbies. Are we ready for Barbie? I mean Barbie is so mature. Was I 3 when I got my first Barbie? More importantly....where the heck did Asha play with Barbies?

So Asha chose 2 Barbies and a couple of outfits. Her choices were interesting. She chose 2 "ethnic" Barbies....."Surf's Up Color Change Barbie" and "Beach Glam Steven." Both are African-American......maybe she thought they were Indian. They could have been I guess. But their names would have been "Surf's Up Color Change Lekshmi" and "Beach Glam Krishna." I love that she chose them. I love that she feels they represent her.

The pictures are horrible because I was in a hurry. I guess you'll have to meet them in person to get a real sense of who they are.

When Asha was born I can remember thinking, "I will never let her play with Barbies. I don't want her growing up thinking that she has to look like Barbie. Her body is unrealistic and ridiculous." And then I realized....I loved Barbies when I was a kid. And I never once thought about Barbie's body or felt that I had to look like she did. I just enjoyed taking Barbie and her friends and creating a world for them. I created quite a life for my Barbie. Now that I think about it......My Barbie had a pink Corvette.......was owner of a McDonald's franchise.....she had a huge house.....a dog....a boyfriend named Ken.....lots of friends....tons of clothes.....she never had to work.....she got whatever she wanted ......when she wanted it. Boy, did she have a great life! And I didn't even have any brothers to melt her head off. She had it good at our house.

Well, we'll see how Barbie does in Asha's world. She probably won't get a pink Corvette....but if she pays her part of the rent and cleans up after herself....she might get stay.

Please Be A Responsible Parent.....It Only Takes One Time....

2008-04-04T14:19:00.001-07:00

Great....Now Where Are We Supposed to Buy That Lingonberry Stuff?

2008-03-28T13:14:00.004-07:00

Friday, Asha and I headed over to IKEA to buy some storage containers and supplies I needed for spring cleaning. Before I tell you the whole story.....allow me to take a moment....and tell you a little bit about how I feel about IKEA. Now, this is my opinion and only my opinion. I have a real love/hate relationship with IKEA. I love to buy some of their stuff....but I HATE to deal with their employees. Okay.....so IKEA carries a wide variety of low price, Swedish furniture, hardware, textiles and random other stuff. The reason it is so low price is because they do not have to pay employees to deal with customers. IKEA employees do not work off of commission...so they don't care if you buy an ice cube tray or a sectional. I mean...don't get me wrong....I don't need a store salesperson to fart rainbows and jump and down for me....in fact it's just the opposite....just answer questions when I need them answered.

Three years ago we furnished our apartment through IKEA and made several purchases including a couch. When choosing the color for the couch I had some questions so I approached a salesperson. I asked the salesperson my question, he rolled his eyes at me and without saying a word motioned towards the color swatches. As if to say, "Oh, stupid peasant woman....why do you speaketh at me? For I am King of the Couches and cannot be bothered with such things as swatch colors. Please.....get out of my site and do not return."

The hard part about my love/hate relationship with IKEA? Asha LOVES IKEA. She thinks it's Disneyland. She loves the play area because they have a ball pit and a movie area.....and crafts....lots of crafts.....something she doesn't get to do at home.....because I just don't have the craft gene. I love the play area because it's like free preschool. So, it works for both of us.

So Friday morning we dropped Mr. Spice off at the golf course and headed off to IKEA. Asha was the first kid to the play area. I check her in, grab a cart and head off to find my stuff. I actually didn't have a lot to buy....but all I cared about was that from the moment I dropped her off at the play area....I had an entire 90 minutes by myself. The only rule was....I couldn't leave the building. IKEA is a big place but I wasn't in the mood to wander....so I grabbed my stuff....and checked out. After checking out I realized that Asha still had one hour before I had to pick her up. I knew that if I took her out now....she'd have a fit......and who was I kidding.....I had a whole hour to sit.....by.....my......self. A little piece of heaven.

So, I bought a bottled water and wandered over to some tables across from the play area. I called my Mom and arranged to meet her for lunch and then sat and starred for a minute. It was great. Quiet....stillness.....silence....shhhh. Then I got bored of being quiet and called MBFD (My Best Friend Dana). As Dana and I were chatting.....the pager I was given in exchange for Asha from the play area went off. Assuming I was paged because Asha had a potty accident, I said goodbye to Dana and headed towards the play area.

As I approached the play area the male staff member who couldn't have been over 18 years old, said, "The reason we paged you is because we need Asha to leave for bad behavior." Shocked....I wasn't sure I heard him correctly. "Really? What happened?" I asked. "Uh, she was throwing balls and not listening"....he said. I looked through the window to find Asha and she was sitting in the pillows watching a movie. Hmmm. The female staff member called Asha down and told her she had to leave now. As soon as Asha saw me she burst into tears.

"What happened?" I asked.
"The teacher said I was a mean girl. I am not a mean girl, Mom", Asha said while sobbing.

"No, you are not a mean girl. Did you throw a ball at a kid?"

"Yes, but he didn't catch it."

Here's what I think happened. Asha loves to play catch. So I think she got in the ball pit and threw a ball to a kid assuming he would catch it. He probably didn't know what she was trying to do so maybe he assumed she was throwing it at him? Who knows. And maybe she did throw it at him. I am not trying to say that my kid is perfect and didn't do anything wrong. But I do know that she is not a spiteful or mean kid. And I certainly feel that it is completely inappropriate for that female staff member to have called Asha a mean girl. That is a problem.

However, the truth is....we'll never know what happened inside of IKEA that day....it will forever remain a mystery. And....I can only assume that IKEA called Sweden and put Asha's name on some kind of list....which means we are probably banished from Sweden....and maybe all of Europe now. Great....our first time getting kicked out of a place....and it has to be a store linked to Europe.

2 Parties...$500. 1 Train Ride...$2. Not Catching A Disease at Chuck E. Cheese....Priceless.

2008-03-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

Maggie in Des Moines.....this one's for you. Congrats on being pregnant!

Birthdays.....back in my day...it was a day....a single day and you would have a party either with friends or family.....and it that was it. So I don't know what happened that we ended up having a "birthday week" for Asha. That little Spice had so much birthday celebration that she now thinks it's part of our regular weekday activities. Here's how it all went down...

On Tuesday of last week we had the "family" celebration. My parents, my grandparents (visiting from California) and the Spices....met up at Chuck E. Cheese for pizza, games, gifts and I assumed....to pick up an unidentified disease.

Here's Asha getting ready to blow out her candles with my Grandpa Dave watching.

Oh, hey everybody....it's Chuck E. Cheese! Hey Chuck.....hold on while I squeeze a bit of this here hand sanitizer into your giant furry hand. :-)

Whoa, whoa, whoa.....Hey Boppa....there is no time for sitting....there are games to be played and tickets to be won! Let's go! By the way....doesn't my Dad look great? He just did the same diet and training program I have been doing and he lost 14 pounds! His cholesterol is down and he is off his meds! Great job Dad!

That is my Grandma Jean sitting next to my Dad. She turned 80 in December...Asha's middle name is Jean after her.

Overall, Chuck E. Cheese was overstimulating, exhausting.....and a whole lot of fun. At the end of the night we had earned 570 tickets which bought Asha a bunch of plastic crap that I threw away the next day. Oh, except for her pink Supergirl watch....I let her keep it. Why? Because my year old can tell time. Actually, she could tell time when she was 2 1/2. I know...I know....she gets it from her Father's side.

Wednesday, Asha's actual birthday, my Grandparents and I took Asha to see Horton Hears A Who and then had lunch at BJ's. It was a fun day and it was so kind of my grandparents to drive over just for Asha's birthday. Thanks guys!

Thursday, my sister Shannon, flew into town to surprise us all for the festivities. Thank you Aunt Shannon! It was fun to have you here.

Then came Saturday, the big party. We met at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale. Sound familiar? Yes, we had her party there last year too.....it was so great....we did a repeat. Don't worry....there won't be a threepeat.

Here is Asha waving to the passing train with her dear friends Raj and Anju. These are her best adult friends. She loves them. She loves their house. She asks to go there often...usually when she is getting in trouble. She'll cry and say, "I want to go to Anju's house!" And I gaze at her affectionately and say ever so lovingly, "I'll help you pack."

After lunch we all rode the train together. Except....genius here...(that would be me) forgot to tell the staff member at the park that we all wanted to be together....so we were all split up on two different trains. Still...I think it was a great day. The weather was perfect and the company was even better. My parents were a huge part in the success of the party. My Dad was at the park hours before it opened just to scout out and save the perfect location. My Mom decorated the cake, put together all the goodie bags and made some really yummy potato salad.

Here's a group of our dear friends. Indians (or "My Peeps" as I like to call them), Russians, Canadians, Chinese, and Americans all riding on the same train. What a picture of peace and love. Okay, it's not like we planned it. We just have a VERY diverse group of friends. We love each and every one of them and we are so grateful to have them in our lives. Oh, don't worry suburban, plain white folks....we love you guys too.....you help us "keep it real."

After the train we rode the merry-go-round. I have no idea who the old guy in the white hat is. But Asha is sitting behind him with her best friend, Uncle Raj.

And after a warm afternoon at the park....we were all ready for naps. Even little Collin.

Even though we had a great big busy week of birthday.......it was great. Asha had a good time and loved every minute of it. I am so grateful for all the special people Asha has in her life. What a testimony of God's love. Thank you all.....especially you Chuck E. Cheese....for keeping my kid disease free.....for one more week.

You Give Me Joy...

2008-03-19T04:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Asha Jean! Today you are 3 years old. I can hardly believe how quickly you have grown. You were a surprise from the beginning and you continue to surprise me everyday. I can't imagine life without you!

You are full of energy and life. You are curious about EVERYTHING! I didn't realize that one little person could ask so many questions in one single day!

I have so many fun memories with you. When you were a baby you never stopped smiling. You loved everyone. You were content to be held or to entertain yourself.

When you were 8 months old we took you to Idaho to meet your Great-Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. I was very nervous about taking you on the plane.....I was sure you would cry the whole time on the plane. But you surprised me again and loved every minute of that plane ride. In fact, we didn't end up seeing you or holding you for most of the time between take-of and landing.....because the flight attendants took you to visit the pilot and even held you while they served drinks. That happened both legs of the round trip flight! I read a whole magazine...and still had time to spare! I am sure this time when we go to Idaho...it will be the same, right?

As a toddler you have been amazed at this world. I will mostly remember your toddlerhood by your many phases...there was the long-time-I-thought-this-one-would-never-end-phase of the Wiggles. I will never forget taking you to the Wiggles concert. You were shocked that these guys were right in front of you. You were starstruck from the moment they entered the stage.

You are a quirky little thing. You sleep with various odds and ends. Your Daddy and I have had many late night laughs listening to you turn over and around in your bed and hearing your various "stuff" clink and clank. Last night, you slept with a puzzle book, 2 Leo toys from Little Einsteins, a Rocket bath toy from the Little Einsteins, a magazine from the Phoenix Zoo, a large Winnie the Pooh musical book, 2 plastic bracelets and a plastic fence. I don't know how you do it.

Last month we registered you for Preschool. You are so excited to go to school that you cried on the day we visited because you thought you were staying there. You ask me almost everyday if "today is the day you can go to school." You will love school...I have no doubts about it.

You are Daddy and I's pride and joy Asha Jean. We love you and love being your parents. We love seeing you in the mornings and miss you when you go to bed at night. But not enough to wake you up again! That would.......be weird.

Happy Birthday Preschooler Spice! I love you so much and I am honored to be your Mommy. Even if you hate Princesses....

2008-03-12T18:02:00.000-07:00

Because she is so cool....

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME (first pet, current car): Hamster Camry (a goldfish named Hamster)

2.YOUR GANGSTA NAME (fave ice cream flavor, favorite type of shoe): Vanilla Wedge

3. YOUR NATIVE AMERICAN NAME (favorite color, favorite animal): Pink Elephant

4. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME (middle name, city where you were born): Erin Los Angeles

5. YOUR STAR WARS NAME (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 of your first name): Jayho

6. SUPERHERO NAME (2nd favorite color, favorite drink): Black Iced Tea

7. NASCAR NAME (the first names of your grandfathers): Bill Don

8. STRIPPER NAME ( the name of your favorite perfume/cologne/scent,favorite candy): Blue Caramel

9. TV WEATHER ANCHOR NAME (your 5th grade teacher’s last name, a major city that starts with the same letter): Arnado Austin

10. SPY NAME: (your favorite season/holiday, flower): Fall Tulip

11. CARTOON NAME (favorite fruit, article of clothing you’re wearing right now): Peach T-shirt

12. HIPPIE NAME: (What you ate for breakfast, your favorite tree): Smoothie Pine

I Think We Just Became..."Those People"...

2008-03-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

Well, let's see here's a recap on our last few weeks...

1st week - I had a sinus infection.

2nd week - Asha had a cold that then turned into pneumonia.

This week - I have the flu, another sinus infection and bronchitis.

I think we've actually turned into..."those people". Don't act like you don't know who I am talking about. Come on, we all have those friends...or we've heard about them....the ones who are always, always sick. They miss church for weeks at a time and are always cancelling play dates and dinner plans....because they are sick. You like them...but eventually stop calling them because you just assume they are sick....and even if they are well....they are probably carrying some disease that you don't want anyways.

This week was by far the worst. As Asha was recovering from her pneumonia...I got a high fever on Tuesday that stayed with me until Friday night. Asha had to fend for herself most mornings as I was only able to prop myself up enough to watch a show with her or watch her play by herself. Mr. Spice was able to work from home most of the afternoons so that our child could interact with someone....I was afraid she was experiencing intense social deprivation.

And a few times as I watched her play alone.....knowing that only in an emergency would I be able to move...I would tear up with sadness for her. But then every time I would cough or sneeze a little pee would dribble out.....and I would remember....that only happens....because of her.....because of the birth of my precious little Baby Spice.....as she came down the birth canal like a summer's day at Raging Waters she tore me inside out making sure that I would never forget this experience....and every time I cough or sneeze....I remember. Okay, I still felt bad that she had to entertain herself all week.

So hopefully...this week will be better. We will all get well and begin spending time in this beautiful weather we are having. If nothing else, we can sit in the sun and burn off all the gross germs that are making us sick. We may have pretty bad sunburns....but at least I won't be coughing!

Uh, Who Turned the Lights Out, Half-Pint?...

2008-02-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

The night of the Superbowl....Asha and I came home and our power was out. The neighbors had power...but not us. Concerned, I called the maintenance supervisor and left him a message...that yes, this was indeed an emergency. Not because I cared about watching the Superbowl...but because I cared about having power.

Of course, all of our flashlights were out of batteries. And of course...the maintenance supervisor was watching the Superbowl and could have cared less that our power was out. So, my Mom, who was with us, lit candles and then....I heard music.....loud music.....but it was coming from my head.....it was a theme song......a very familiar theme song....that sounded like this....

And then I realized....I don't have anything to worry about! My parents had prepared us for this very moment....they made sure that we watched every single episode of Little House on the Prairie!

My sister and I LOVED that show growing up! Every Saturday, we would get to go to the store and choose a TV dinner. Anyone we wanted. And come Saturday night my Mom would cook our dinners, set them up on TV trays and turn on our favorite show.

I am sure that for many of the early years, we thought we were part of the Ingalls family. I was Mary...except I didn't marry a blind lawyer whose sight was on again-off again. And my sister was Half-Pint....except she hasn't married a hot guy....yet.....and doesn't teach school in a one room schoolhouse.

It was as if...all those years....9 seasons....of watching had prepared me for this very moment. I didn't have to be worried about not having power. That was a luxury item for the Ingalls....all we had to do was light some candles....pull out the family Bible and gather 'round the table for an evening devotion.

OR....grab the portable DVD player....pray it has enough battery power to get through at least one movie.....tell Asha that this is a special night where she gets to watch a movie by candlelight.....and then call the maintenance supervisor over and over until he finally comes at 10pm and says...."I was doing some work earlier....I guess I forgot to turn your power back on....sorry."

Don't worry Mr. Supervisor....I grew up on the Prairie.....I didn't even think twice about it.....

Asha...watching her show in the dark. Poor Mary, Laura and Carrie.....I bet Pa and Ma Ingalls....were always forgetting to charge the portable DVD player....

Another Riveting Page from the Diary of Mrs. Spice...

2008-02-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

Hello Kittens. What a year. Can you believe we are already into mid February? It's been so busy. I don't have any new and exciting news or pictures...so I thought I would just give an update on our Spicey life.

We registered Baby Spice for preschool. We took her to her school, signed her up and met her teacher and toured her classroom. She will be attending Joyful Beginnings Academy. After a whole lot of prayer and research, we decided that this was the best fit for our family. I love her teacher and the director. It is a small Christian preschool with a lot of great activities. She will begin attending two days per week from 8:30-11:45am in August. Please pray for her as she begins her journey into school.

I began school 3 weeks ago. I am taking Biochemistry. The class is 16 weeks long and ends in May. It has been a challenge to be back in school, but I love it. My family has been incredibly supportive and we have a great schedule.....it has proved very successful...so far. Monday evenings my Mom comes and feeds Baby Spice dinner and puts her to bed so that I can study and Mr. Spice can play soccer. The rest of the evenings I study almost immediatly after Baby Spice goes to bed. All of my assignments are due Saturday nights...so I have one week to do a whole lot of work. The challenge has been to fit in quality time with Mr. Spice....he has been so patient and supportive....he is so great.

I am still working out twice a week with my trainer, Brian. He is less and less scary every week. I am growing much stronger and building muscle like crazy. If you happen to run into me....check out my arms....they are amazing! I actually have defined muscles! I never in a million years thought I'd have that. I have actually challenged a few people in arm wrestling contests. I haven't won yet....but just wait....these guns will be ready soon. My Dad, Boppa....has also started working out with Brian....so he knows now first hand, the torture that it is. I am serious. If you have ever seen Biggest Loser.....you have seen the sweat and pain. But....I have to tell you.....I love it. I really love it.

Baby Spice is a growing machine. Last summer....as in....5-6 months ago....she was wearing 3T. She is now in 5T....comfortably. She is wearing size 10 shoes. I wear size 10 shoes. Okay, not the same size 10....but still crazy. It is crazy. I cannot keep her in shoes or clothes. Thank the Lord for second hand kids clothing stores.....otherwise....we'd be living in our car....just so Baby Spice could have some capri's and a t-shirt. At this rate of growth, I expect her to be America's Next Top Model for sure......probably in Kindergarten.....hope she can do her homework on the show.

I am hosting Bunco at my house this week. If you don't know what Bunco is....it's a really complex, academically challenging game. There are 12 women that play and each month it is hosted in a different home....with a different theme. The theme I have chosen is....Breast Cancer Awareness Bunco. I decided to pair the theme with an issue that we as women all face. Maybe it's the future nurse in me....or maybe it's because my own Grandmother (Hi, Grandma Hall) is a breast cancer survivor and I am really proud of her hard work and determination. My intention is to bring awareness to a topic that we should all understand and be educated on....and have a lot of fun while doing it. I have asked my guests to dress in pink and the night is sure to be full of surprises.

So, there you go. A very small, picture-less update. I promise I will come back soon and post pictures. For now....I am off to study....endoplasmic reticulum and its function within the cell. Yeah!

2008-02-13T21:46:00.000-07:00

In the last 48 hours...people have typed the following words into Google and clicked on "search"....only to land on....this blog....some of them are funny....some of them caused me to spend an extra 30 minutes in my Bible this morning....

1. What peeing in a diaper feels like
2. Spicey babies
3. Adult Spice joke
4. Adult diaper coupons
5. Indian party
6. Mrs. Spice home web cam
7. How to become customer service agents
8. Job at home prayers services
9. Indian party girls
10. Pee in adult diapers
11. Olympic Games 2024
12. Toddlers get Olympic training
13. Girl loves adult diapers
14. Babies living in a stomach

People....Kittens....I am not kidding you. When people type these phrases into Google search....they are referred to my blog. I can only apologize to you readers and say....I am so sorry that I have apparently gone on and on about adult diapers and Indian parties. I'll try and keep my posts professional from here on out...Ha!

Total and Complete Randomness...

2008-02-11T21:08:00.000-07:00

Since I have so many inspirational friends...and I love to follow in their footsteps...here is my MeMe. Actually, I have loved, loved, loved the posts where people have posted random things in their lives. I feel like I have learned so much about them! So I am tagging all of you. If you have a blog and read this post....TAG....go share some random stuff from your life!

So here goes my Post of Randomness....enjoy.

1. I am a total and complete textbook perfectionist with a splash of OCD. I have struggled with it my entire life. It is so bad that it affects me physically. When things are not perfect or outside of my capability of making them perfect...I get physically ill. When I was younger and even in high school I suffered from ulcers because of it. Today it comes mostly in the forms of high blood pressure and migrains. It used to consume my life. However, after some wonderful professional Christian counseling and a lot of life experiences that have matured me in my faith....I have learned that only HE can make things perfect. Thank the Lord for teaching me that I am only made perfect THROUGH Him! Of course I still fall off the wagon once in a while (Hi. Today would a good example.) But the difference is I know how to deal with it in a healthy, Godly way.

2. I was a serious and academically focused child. I loved to read and would read anything that had words. Our family had a library night, Wednesdays, and I would check out 6-10 books and finish reading them by Sunday. Not picture books....novels. This leads me to my next item....

3. I was a socially awkward child. I did not relate well with my peers. I could have a lovely and very stimulating converstation with any adult....but put me next to a kid my own age and I would be terrified. I may have hid it well....but I was a weird kid. It's also the reason that I covet the time with my girlfriends today. God has blessed me with a group of friends that I could not have imagined in my wildest dreams. They are pure joy.

4. I don't enjoy chocolate. I won't say I hate it because I would eat say....chocolate chip ice cream....I mean only if someone were forcing it down my throat of course. But I have never liked plain chocolate. It has to be in small amounts and mixed into something. Like say....chocolate chip cookies or mint chip ice cream. I don't crave it and I hate the smell of it. It smells strange...I don't like cocoa butter lotion either....Ucckkkk!

5. I became a CNA (Certified Nurse's Assistant) during my senior year of high school when I was 17. I really loved it. At that point....I knew I was going to be a nurse. I love everything about Nursing. My favorite memories were working in labor and delivery in a county hospital and a doctor actually let me deliver a baby. I also loved my rotations in the Alzheimers center in nursing homes.

6. Hate banannas. I don't eat them. I don't touch them. I don't smell them. I don't put them in the bag at the store. I tolerate them being brought into my home because my husband and daughter love them. And I love my husband and daughter. When my husband goes on business trips...and my daughter wants a bananna....she is redirected to another fruit.

7. I like my feet on the ground. I don't ski. I don't snowboard. I don't rollerblade. I don't skateboard. I don't put my feet on anything with wheels or a waxy smooth surface and send myself down a hill or street.

8. I enjoy baking. Cooking...not so much. Baking.....love it.

9. My goal is to travel to 6 of the 7 continents. I am leaving out Antarctica because I don't really have any desire to visit frozen tundra....of any kind. So far I have been to 3 of the 7 continents....North America, South America and Europe. The best part is...I have a sister in law in the Middle East....a sister in law in Australia and my mother, father and brother in law live in Asia. So as I visit each one of my family members....eventually I should have 6 of the 7 continents covered!

Well, I hope more of you take me seriously when I say....share more about yourselves! I love learning about you all and I hope it continues.

And Now...A Message From One of Our Sponsors....

2008-02-06T14:41:00.000-07:00

A little while ago I asked my Dad, Boppa Spice, if he would do a guest post on my blog. He was reluctant at first...but all I had to do was thrust his granddaughter in his face and remind him what a gift she is to him...and that did it...he caved. Thank you Dad. You are a man of few, but mostly funny words...and I appreciate you taking the time to stop by my little blog or "therepy-in-a-computer" as I like to call it.

So, I am proud to introduce Living Life With Spices' first Guest Blogger....My Dad...Boppa Spice. Show him some love people...this is his first blog post ever!

Hi......my name is Boppa Spice and I have been asked by my daughter to write a little bit for her blog. I am not sure what to write about.....so I will just ramble.

I love my family. They are a nice group of people and a lot of fun to be with. However, it seems that there is never enough time with them. Even now, as I write this I am in Minnesota at a conference.

One of the things that I have recently enjoyed doing is taking Baby Spice (actually, it is probably time to start referring to her as Little Girl Spice) to lunch while Mommy Spice goes to work out. We have been going to Mickey D's and after we eat we go throw french fries to the birds outside. She really gets a kick out of watching the birds swoop in and grab the fries and then quickly fly away. I, of course get a kick out of watching her. Starting next week we are going to have to find somewhere different to eat as I am going on a healthy eating and exercise program. Looks like we will go to the park and eat wild hickory nuts.

One of the things that I missed by being at this conference was watching the Super Bowl with Daddy Spice. I think we would have had a good time watching that one together. It would have been difficult to watch the game with him if the Packers were in it as he is a huge fan.
The thing that we are looking forward to this year is taking Little Girl Spice to Disneyland in December. I remember when we took Mommy Spice when she was just 3 years old and how much fun it was to see that place through her young eyes. It will be a blast.

Goodbye Old Friend....Hello New Adventure!

2008-01-31T14:18:00.000-07:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

She's Finally Here!...

2008-01-22T15:05:00.000-07:00

You may have heard me refer to Fun Kristi several times on this blog, as well as others blogs. Well, I am happy to report that she has taken the big step and started her own blog! Please visit her blog....I am sure she'll say something to change your life...

http://theresmoretolifethanlaundry.blogspot.com/

Beginning a blog is no easy task....It can be scary at first...you are leaving a safe space of trust and privacy and practically standing in your front doorway naked....while the neighborhood blockparty is taking place. Or, at least that is what blogging can feel like sometimes. So thank you Fun Kristi for taking that step.....thank you for opening your front door and standing naked for all the blog world to see. We look forward to visiting your blog. Now, for goodness sake....go put some clothes on, will you? There are children present.....we keep these blogs family style....got it?

I am Buried in Flaming Dog Doo....

2008-01-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

Okay, here's the funny thing...when I said "big announcements"....I meant "big" to me...not like
"big, big stomach forming" news.

No. I am not pregnant....but it is so nice to know how many of you are baby-shower ready at all times. I love that.

So now I feel horrible. I got you all excited and now I am afraid you may be disappointed after seeing what they really are.

All right.....the first announcement is something that I have wanted to do for 15 years....but for whatever reason or another....I haven't. But after a lot of prayer, counsel and thinking.....this is the year.

I am going back to school to get my Nursing degree. Whoa. I just saw several friends and family members roll their eyes.....that's right.....I saw you! I know, I know....I love school and tend to "go back" a lot.

This is a big decision for me because I have been praying for the last year whether or not to have another baby or get my nursing degree. God very clearly led me to get this degree. I don't think a second child is out of the question.....it is just not in the forecast for right now. But then again.....Baby Spice was not in the forecast either.

Since this will be my second bachelor's degree....I don't have to take a lot of the general classes. I have 5 pre-requisite classes to take before I can apply to a nursing program. I begin on February 5th with Biology for Health care Workers. You know....cause it's different Biology than for let's say....non-health care workers......

After Biology I continue on with Chemistry, Anatomy/Physiology I and II and Microbiology. Then I take the NET - Nursing School Entrance Exam. If I do well....I apply to Nursing School and take 2 years of classes. If I do well enough to graduate....I'll be an RN and can save your life.....legally.

There are so many reasons that this Nursing degree is important to me. It radiates within my soul. Make no mistake....Baby Spice and Mr. Spice are still my number one priority.....they are my family and they come first. However, this is something I am being led to do. I don't know why....will I work part-time while my kids go to school. Will I use my skills to go on medical mission trips? Will I work full-time once my kids are in college? Only God knows for now. All I know for now is....I am beginning the process to become an R.N..

Okay....big announcement number two. It's only big to me, my family and friends that know me well enough to have heard me complain about this over and over and over and over again.

Baby Spice is potty training. She's really doing it! Over the last year many of you have heard me whine and cry that Baby Spice is not potty trainable. But...I stand corrected. As it turns out...we will not be moving her into her college dorm room with a Costco size box of adult diapers.....or telling her roommate..."Please make sure you change her before bedtime....she tends to leak during the night.....oh...do you want bottom bunk or top bunk?"

So, we took her Target....let her pick out her own potty, her own panties and her own "pee-pee treats". She loved it. She has totally taken ownership of the process. She has lived in panties and gone consistently to the potty for days now....not hours.....days. Of course she chose the most expensive, cheesiest, most ridiculous potty. But for Baby Spice...it's not about the potty. It's about the fact that she chose the potty and gets to use her very own potty every day. That's what she needed. She needed to be a part of the process. To have decisions. I have NO idea what works for other kids...honestly.....but I know this is what is working for Baby Spice.

So, there you have it. A couple of big announcements.

And Now...It's What You've All Been Waiting (Some of You Have Threatened) For....

2008-01-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

Here is the last 5 weeks of my life.....in one....post. It's like a blog on crack.

Okay...let's get started.

Baby Spice, Mr. Spice and I drove to Southern California with my parents....Nanny and Boppa Spice....to spend the holidays with the rest of our Spicy family. The drive over to California was awesome....why? Because we caved in and bought a portable DVD player and strapped it to the seat. Baby Spice was in heaven. I don't think she even noticed we were driving across state lines....she only cared that Curious George stay on continuous play.

The day after we got to California we threw Grammy Spice a surprise birthday party for her 80th birthday. Look....here she comes....shhhhh.....okay....ready.....no....shhh....you guys.....stop talking.....she's coming......you already said that......wait......sur....oh.....it's not her......wait.....here she comes......should we all jump out.......no.....just say surprise.......wait.....I thought we were hiding......no......just......wait.....I hear something......Oh.....Hey Grammy.....Surprise!

It was a great party and fun to see family and friends all gathered in one place. And best of all....Grammy loved it. She even cried while opening her gifts. She was really touched. It was nice to honor her.

And then....there was the after party.......that's where things really get crazy with my family. Look at em'.....they're practically jumping off the walls!

On the couch holding the camera is our dear practically-family friend Jeffrey....then, that is me with red hair......okay, just kidding....it's my Aunt Kathleen......and then sleeping....because his life is really, really hard (smell the sarcasm, please)....is my cousin Sean.

A few days after the party....it was Christmas Day! We all (13 of us) spent the night at my Uncle Tim and Molly's house and woke up together on Christmas morning. It was really great. Baby Spice is the only grandchild, great-grandchild, great niece, niece and 2nd cousin in the family.....so she was showered with love, attention and gifts the entire time we were with family. Here she is playing with her new baking supplies from Aunt Kathleen.

Baby Spice just kept opening more and more gifts...it was never ending!

She also got this cool Dora playhouse and some fun slippers that she wears as shoes because they are so comfortable!

Phew! Baby Spice was overwhelmed and overjoyed by all the gifts that her family and friends gave her.

What did Mr. Spice and I give her, you ask? We gave her life...my friends......and I think that is a pretty good gift.

Oh.....and then we took her to.....SEA WORLD! Nothing says, "I love you, Baby Spice" like watching a good ole' Shamu show. The day after Christmas....we went out to breakfast with Nanny and Boppa to celebrate Nanny's birthday. Then....Mr. Spice, Baby Spice and I headed down to San Diego for 3 nights of fun filled family vacation. Can you handle it? I know...it only get's better from here......

There are a few things I need to mention about our trip to San Diego. First, it was freezing. No, I mean freezing. (Okay, you IA's and RI's it was cold for us....AZ's.) The high was in the 40's.....see....it was cold. The second thing about San Diego....we were there to support our team in the Holiday Bowl. GO DEVILS! Yeah...I know....it was embarrassing.....we lost.....badly. But...as loyal alumni we are always looking ahead.....to next season! Please Lord....just one bowl win.....that's all we ask. However, it also means that everyone from the states of Arizona and Texas happened to be visiting San Diego at the same time.....which is all part of the fun!

Okay, so on to San Diego.....We took a lovely, leisurely drive from Newport Beach (where my fam lives) to San Diego....it was beautiful. The weather was perfect (in a cold sorda way)....clear skies.....it was awesome. That afternoon we checked into our hotel and headed down to Balboa Park and visited the Model Train Museum. It was so fun. There are tons and tons of model trains set up and the detail is incredible. They even had a playroom for kids.....

After the museum we went on a search for tea/hot chocolate/coffee......anything that would warm us up! The cafe was next to this beautiful fountain. Baby Spice and Mr. Spice decided to do a few laps around it. It was hilarious to watch them marathon around this fountain.

The next day.....we went to Sea World.....along with all the people that live in the state of California.....Arizona.....and Texas. Yeah, it was crowded.....but who care's right? We were not going to let a few million people stop us from having fun on our vacation!

First stop....a hug from a penguin....which is perfect....because Baby Spice happens to be in a penguin phase right now. It's all about penguins.

Where to next Baby Spice?

The second thing we did....after hugging a penguin.....was go to the Shamu Show.....and boy are we thankful we did that first. We got in line 45 minutes before the show....along with a few hundred other people. Just think of it this way.....EVERY show.....sold out that day. Every show at Sea World....was full. So unless you were in line an hour before the show.....you didn't have a chance. It was crazy......crazy fun!

So we waited for Shamu......

And waited.....

And then....finally.....here he comes! It's Shamu.....or one of his body doubles.....

He was sure worth the wait! What a great show!

We saw a lot of shows and visited all the exhibits. Sea World was not a let down! Uhh....wait....there was one let down......the whole time I am describing Sea World to Mr. Spice (it was his first time too!) I am telling him about the Sky Tower......and what was the one thing that was closed that day? I know....the Sky Tower.

But....because we are crazy....and fun.....we went on the BayRide....in 40 degree temps......we were truly.....crazy. Hey, who's that girl in the ASU sweatshirt? That's right....Go Devils!

Our last day in San Diego we decided to play tourists. We love San Diego and have been there countless times....so we decided to pack all our favorite things into 1 full day. We took a harbor cruise....

Went to Belmont Park.....

Played at the beach at night....

Drove to Coronado Island, and did numerous other touristy things. Overall our vacation was awesome. We can't wait to go back. We enjoyed the holidays with our family and then we got to enjoy our little family in San Diego. We are truly blessed with wonderful family and friends.....and we do not take that for granted.

Well, there it is folks. Hope it did not disappoint. I have much more to talk to you all about. This year is a big year for me. I have a few big announcements. BUT.....you'll have to wait. Don't worry, I won't keep you waiting long....probably just a day or two....or until the first flaming bag of poo hits my front door....

And Now.....A Spicey Update.....

2008-01-14T18:39:00.001-07:00

Good news....strep culture....negative. Praise God. It looks like strep....feels like strep....but the test says it is not. I am thrilled. I am on antibiotics for a sinus infection.

Bad news...Baby Spice went to the doctor yet again today and has a sinus infection and ear infection. She too is on antibiotics.

Within a few days....both Baby Spice and I will be on our toes again. We are praying that this is the end of all sickness for a while. Due to Baby Spice's asthma and this very sick season....we will not be at any mall play areas or public play places.....until it gets warmer.....which here in Arizona....should be next week.

Thank you for your prayers and support. Bunco here I come!

This Is No Joke...

2008-01-13T09:44:00.000-07:00

I have strep. And...a sinus infection. I am not kidding. If you know where I live. Please drive by and throw a bucket of Lysol at my door. I have no idea what cesspool of disease I am living in...but my family cannot get well. Baby Spice is still sick and has been relocated to my parents house until she is potty-trained and 18....which ever comes first.

I have a high temp and a sore throat. I promise I will post adorable pictures of Baby Spice and Shamu as soon as I can sit at the computer without passing out.

Love you all. Please pray for our health. It's Bunco week. I cannot miss again!

Bear With Me Kittens...

2008-01-07T13:11:00.000-07:00

I have tons of stuff to update...stories, pictures...new year goals...however, currently I am playing nurse in the Spicey House of Disease. Mr. Spice has been in bed for 4 days...sicker than he's been in his whole life. Then....last night I was up all night with Baby Spice....she has croup....which makes her asthma....bad....really bad. She is on a ton of steroids....and a weight lifting regime. I have not slept in 2 nights. Toothpicks are holding my eyelids open and adreneline is keeping me sane.

I promise I have not forgotten you kittens. I have so much to share with you....I just need to get one nights sleep and than I can focus. Miss you all like crazy. I would appreciate your prayers for restoration of health....and sleep....lot's of sleep.

30 in 3....

2007-12-20T09:24:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for another riveting post about my weight? I thought you might be. I have hit the 30 pound mark. I have lost 30 pounds in 3 months. At the suggestion of a BBF (Blogger Best Friend - Thanks Tara!) I have posted before and after pictures. And I will just be honest. I don't see a difference. I have been overweight since I was 10 or 11 years old....so to me....both pictures are identical. In fact....the only way I know that I have lost weight is because so many of my clothes aren't fitting anymore....oh and I have had to buy a new....smaller....bra 4 times....in 3 months! This journey is only possible because I have completely surrendered to God's power and plan. He has encouraged me, guided me, disciplined me and loved me during the entire 3 months. And I have no doubts that He will continue to do so as I press on to my goal.
BEFORE

AFTER

And now on to other Spice Family news....

We are leaving day after tomorrow for California. We will be spending Christmas with my family and then Mr. Spice, Baby Spice and I will venture down to San Diego for 4 days and go to Sea World and support ASU in the Holiday Bowl. Go Devils! We are really looking forward to all the fun with family and friends. We are especially excited to see Baby Spice's face at Sea World. She has watched Finding Nemo about 800 times and is in a "fish phase" right now. She is still anti-princess.....but very pro-fish. I don't know what this means....maybe she'll need therapy....maybe she'll be a marine biologist.

I am praying for all of you friends and family and anonymous blog stalkers.....(I know who some of you are!) Have a blessed Christmas and a very happy New Year.....but don't worry.....I couldn't go a week without posting pictures of my crazy family........then you can see why I am the way I am......

Nothing Says Merry Christmas....Quite Like A Mall Santa...

2007-12-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

Wednesday night we had plans to go to Zoo Lights with my parents.....but since it felt like Antarctica outside....we decided to go to the mall instead. So we met at Scottsdale Fashion Square for dinner and hot chocolate.....and a picture with the mall Santa. After a luxurious and tasty food court dinner.....we headed to "Mickey's House" or The Disney Store as it is properly known. After Baby Spice hugged every single stuffed animal, we went to attempt to have Baby Spice's picture taken with Santa. She loves Santa....she talks about him everyday. Don't worry....she also talks about Jesus too. She knows that He is truly the Reason for the Season. But we still do a little Santa too.

The only problem with the mall Santa......was.....Baby Spice was not going to sit on Santa's lap. She talked to him.....but she was not going to sit on his lap. So my Mom made me sit on his lap to show that Santa was safe. They took a picture and it was good. So good that I had to tell my Mom that it was weird if she ordered it.....after insisting that she could buy the picture package of me on Santa's lap.

So, after the failed Santa picture we headed over to the play area and let Baby Spice get some of her energy out. One of the side effects of the steroids she is on for her asthma......hyperactivity. Can you imagine making an almost 3 year old any more hyperactive? Let's just say that naps are a bit of a challenge now days. So, with our Nordstrom's hot chocolate and herbal tea....we sat and watched as Baby Spice played and played......and played.

It was a great family outing....

Please excuse me while I go sit on a bag of ice...

2007-12-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

I have no idea why I posted this. I came across this on another blog and thought it was interesting...maybe it's the nurse in me or maybe I am just a glutten for punishment. Medically speaking....it is interesting. Personally speaking....it is not very accurate....it needs to show the mother being ripped in two....only then could I relate.

What We Won't Do For A Little Christmassy Feeling...

2007-12-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

Friday, Baby Spice and I met my Mom and Scottsdale Fashion Square for a lunch date and trip to Build-A-Bear. Build-A-Bear is a fun experience for kids.....a little overwhelming at times....but a lot of fun. I am always amused at meeting adults with a passion for stuffed animals.....mainly, the employees of Build-A-Bear. These employees have an unbridled affection for stuffed animals and they are not afraid to show it. From the moment I walk into the store I began feeling guilty for tossing Baby Spice's old stuffed animals that she doesn't play with anymore. I am afraid they are going to see it in my eyes and label me a "stuffed animal killer" or something. They are passionate about their jobs.....that is for sure.

Anyways, Baby Spice had a great time choosing her animal, "Clarice", Rudolph's girlfriend. She chose it, stuffed it, washed it and chose an outfit for it, then named it and got a birth certificate and house for it. I told her she is also responsible for providing health insurance and getting it's shots. Nanny and Baby Spice naming her new friend. She named it "Bear", but calls it Clarice. Go figure.

Then, later that evening Mr. Spice, Baby Spice and I went to Nanny and Boppa's house (my parents) for dinner. Then we drove out to the J.W. Marriott in Desert Ridge to see the "largest gingerbread house in the valley." It was designed and built by an Indian pastry chef. Dang, those Indians are talented.

The gingerbread house was awesome. It's huge and detailed and even has a train going through it. And....I didn't take any pictures of it. I know....what was I thinking? I did get a picture of these two crazy kids....geez do you think they were excited to be together?

We had a great time walking around the lobby of the resort. It was cold and rainy outside and very warm and Christmassy inside.

A Man Cold...

2007-12-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I cried from laughing at this video. It is so funny....and so true in my house.

During this flu season....may all of us wives be blessed.

And the Mother of the Year Award Goes To.....Uh, Not Me...

2007-11-30T15:10:00.000-07:00

So, today was one of those days where you keep pinching yourself because you are sure you are dreaming the whole thing. I had scheduled a doctor appointment for Baby Spice to get her flu vaccine, a Hep A booster and ask about a curious armpit scratching she had developed...oh....and this persistent, annoying cough she's had for....well....since birth.

When we arrived at the doctor's office I checked her in and handed over my debit card to pay the co-pay. The receptionist handed back my card and said that since I was only seeing the nurse today a co-pay wasn't required. Confused I asked why we weren't seeing Baby Spice's doctor. The receptionist said our appointment was only for shots and if we needed to see the doctor than we would have to reschedule. Frustrated but not concerned, we were escorted back to the patient room. I mean we are just getting shots today. I can always ask my questions at her 3 year well check in March, right? But I felt this nagging, persistent need to see Dr. K today. I tried hard to convince override the instinct....but I couldn't. The nurse comes in and I mention to her the mix-up. "I really need to see Dr. K today." The nurse says, "Well, I can ask Dr. K if she'll see you as a favor, but normally you would have to reschedule. Is there anything wrong?"

A little embarrassed, I said, "No, Baby Spice is fine...I just have some questions regarding a cough and armpit thing for her. I can't explain it....can you just ask her if we can have 5 seconds of her time to look at her armpit?"

The nurse agrees to talk to Dr. K and then returns a few minutes later say that Dr. K will see us. Thankful, I feel relieved....and then I can't believe I am making a big deal over this....Baby Spice is fine.

I should mention that we LOVE Baby Spice's doctor. She is from India....she is amazing. We drive 25 miles just to see her......that's how much we love her. She has been with Baby Spice since she was 3 months old. She is kind, patient, honest and so caring.

Okay, so Dr. K finally comes in. I explain to her that Baby Spice has a funny itchy armpit. She always is scratching at her left armpit. Whilce explaining to her about the armpit.....Dr. K puts her head close to Baby Spice's chest. "Do you hear that?", she says to me.

"Uh, hear what?", I say.

Dr. K: "Baby Spice is wheezing."

Me: "Uh....oh. Well, she always sounds like that."

Dr. K.: "This isn't good Holly."

Me: "Oh."

Dr. K. then takes Baby Spice to the exam table and listens to her heart and lungs, looks in her ears and mouth and then goes back to her chart and stares.

Dr. K.: Well, she has a sinus infection, a touch of bronchitis and I think her asthma has gotten much worse.

Me (to myself): Uh, yeah....well, that's why I brought her in. I was really concerned that she was so sick.....and struggling to breathe.....I totally caught all of that.

Me (in reality): "Oh, wow. Um....okay....um..." (Pinching my arm hard.)

In the past almost 3 years we knew that Baby Spice has had asthma.....but it was always low-key. Until now. Both Mr. Spice and I have family members with severe asthma. Dr. K had been working with us over the past year trying different medications but none of them seemed to work. I guess both Mr. Spice and I just assumed she would grow out of it. I mean it hasn't kept her from running and being crazy! But....as mother of the year....I failed to see one simple fact......Apparently she can't breathe well.

So, in an appointment that was supposed to just give us a flu and Hep A shots.....we went home with 5 medications and a breathing machine. That's right a breathing machine. Baby Spice will now get 2 breathing treatments every day. She will also take antibiotics for her sinus infection, a cream for her armpit, an allergy medicine to help eliminate triggers for her asthma and 2 medications in the breathing machine.

I was in shock. Driving home I kept thinking......"All we needed was a flu shot....and my kid can't breathe.....and she has a sinus infection and an itchy armpit and I just thought we were getting a flu shot....."

So....who wants to do the "Asthma Walk" next year? I guess I had better put Baby Spice on the waiting list for Camp-Not-A-Wheeze.....a camp for asthmatic kids. :-)

The Gingerbread House That Baby Spice Built...

2007-11-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

So Baby Spice and I picked up a gingerbread house kit at Costco. Those kits are great....they only cost $8.99 and they come with everything you need....even the frosting. I picked it up assuming that we would put it together as a family....sometime in the next few weeks before Christmas. But Baby Spice could not let it go. From the moment I put it in the cart she kept asking when we were going to build the gingerbread house. So as soon as Mr. Spice walked in the door from work.....Baby Spice pounced on him and put him in a choke hold until he agreed to bust open the gingerbread house kit and assemble it.

Being married to me must be challenging. But doing any "project" with me has to be a test of patience. What a fun family activity when I keep barking, "Read the directions first!" It's only a simple gingerbread house, right? Yes...but if you know me well enough....you know that there is a "right" and "wrong" way to do everything. Don't worry, I am working on it.

Anyways, so Mr. Spice kindly read the directions and the walls went up. That's when the real fun began as we got to decorate it with the TONS of candy in the kit.

Notice how Baby Spice is already eating gingerbread? Well, that's because she didn't realize that the "decorations" for the house....was really CANDY!!! She had no idea, didn't ask and just kept remarking how "pretty the decorations are." Whoa....we fooled her this year...another year without candy. Yeah right.

It was a great family, holiday activity. Mr. Spice even said we should do it every year. That means a lot.

I think overall the best part was that Mr. Spice and I built it without eating any of the......hey....what is that in his mouth? Is his mouth red in that picture?.......Oh....that's it.....he is busted!

So go out there and start a new holiday tradition with your family. It can be simple....it can be cheap.....just make sure it is together.....cause that is the point of a family tradition.....

Happy Holidays Friends!

Deck The Halls With Christmas Spices...

2007-11-26T11:10:00.000-07:00

So last night Baby Spice and I pulled out all the Christmas decorations and just...went for it. Last year I got her a little tree for her room with some decorations. Of course last year she was 18 months old and wasn't as much interested in decorating her tree as....well....swinging it around in the air. Oh...how times change....this year as I pulled out the little tree from it's box....she squealed, "Is that mine?" So with Jackson 5 Christmas music in the background....we decorated away. Not too much....but just enough.

Last year Jen taught my mom and I how to make Christmas wreathes.....they were gorgeous. Of course, I have no attention span when it comes to crafts.....so Jen ended up finishing both my wreaths. They are amazing....I forgot to take pictures of them....so I will post those later....or you could just come over and admire my Jen W. Originals!

"So, where was Mr. Spice during all this festive holiday fun?"

Good question friend.....well....I'll give you a hint. It was Sunday night....that's right....he was watching Sunday night football in the bedroom. Oh don't worry, he did come out several times to help with lights and garlands.....oh and hanging things that were too high for me. Besides....it's not his holiday...so I give him a lot of grace. He loves Christmas....he just didn't grow up with Christmas traditions....in India. But he loves the holidays and has a lot of fun watching Baby Spice get so excited.

I love this time of year, don't you? It's festive, and I get to play Christmas music 16 hours out of the day. By last year at this time I was baking over 250 cookies that I gave away to friends and family. But....since I am not in the mood to make any organic fruit and nut cookies....they just don't sound "holidayish" to me. Man....don't you wish you were friends with me last year? This year all you get is my good wishes and a Christmas card picture of the Spices. Dang....stinks to be a year late doesn't it?

Well, I hope and pray that as you begin your holiday preperations, that your family builds new traditions and grows old ones. Bless you all....and just because I am not baking holiday cookies this year doesn't mean I am not open to receiving them! After all, it is more blessed to give than receive, right?

Merry Christmas!

So....You Think You Can Dance?...

2007-11-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Why, yes....yes I do think I can dance!

Are we ready or what?

Sean made this sweet sign for us! We don't even care that he spelled Neal wrong....we are just so excited!

So last night Jen and I went to So You Think You Can Dance....the Tour!!! What? You don't know what that is? If you had to click on the link because you don't watch the show.....it's intervention time. It's the greatest dancing show since Solid Gold. Come spring time people....I'll be expecting you all to tune in...

Anyways...

So Sean (Jen's husband) bought her the tickets for her birthday.....in September.....do you have any idea how much Jen and I love this show? Do you have any idea how hard it's been to wait from September to November? Well, it was all worth the wait! The show was awesome!

First we had dinner at Margaritaville. And although neither Jen nor I enjoyed a margarita....their fajitas were good. The resturaunt is entertaining all by itself. There is a lot to look at and a lot going on while you eat. It was fun.

After dinner we walked to the fountain located between the resturant and the arena where the show was. It was so nice out....can't believe it's November and not freezing yet!

Going into last night we felt a bit old....and a bit like we needed to have our 12 year old daughters with us.....we soon realized....we were part of the "young" crowd.

So we got there early which gave us a chance to observe the "unique" crowd of people that had come to see the show. Behind us sat three teenage girls...maybe 15 years old? They were hilarious. They were loud. They were on their cell phones.....all.....night. One of the girls, I think the blond on the right....actually auditioned for the show. At one point during the show they showed video clips of auditions and there she was! Maybe she'll try again next year....and make it......and then Jen can sell this picture on eBay.

Pretty soon, the lights dimmed, the theme music started and Jen and I were in dancing heaven!
The cast came up from underneath the stage and it was awesome.

The show was awesome. Everything about it was fun! This is our rating!

We finally left at 10:00pm.....and that is how we knew we were old. 10:00pm and we couldn't stay awake! Well, at least Jen has an excuse....she just birthed a kid 5 weeks ago! I however, am just old....and tired. But not too tired to watch old episodes of So You Think You Can Dance online today!!!

Thanks Sean and Jen for a great night! Can't wait for next year's tour!

A Mormon Stole Our Credit Card...

2007-11-06T08:29:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Identity Thief,

Well, well, well. You did it. You stole Mr. Spice's identity....and his debit card number our address and possibly his social security number. Now it will take us months if not a year to clean up the mess you have made. Did you know we are trying to buy a house right now? Yeah. Now the only thing we will be able to qualify for is a place we can put on a Home Depot card.

The one consolation Mr. Spice and I have is....we know you are not very smart. How do we know that? Well, first of all because you stole the identity of a man whose name 90% of people cannot pronounce. What.....you couldn't have taken Mr. Bob Jones' or Steve Smiths' identities? Here...we'll help you out. My friends just call us the "Jam-On-It's." You have my permission to borrow it......trust me....it will save you a lot of time in having to spell out your stolen name.

The other reason we know you fell out of a stupid tree and hit every branch on the way down....is because of the purchases you have made....thus far. So far you have only purchased web sites.....expensive websites and ancestry research software. That is how we assume you must be Mormon.

So here's what we know about you so far. You are most likely an Indian.....because you are making purchases from India. What's going on brother? How about putting a stop to brown on brown violence? Break the cycle my brotha.....from anotha....motha.

We know that you are desperate to buy websites. We know that your user name is Mmmmmmmm. We know that you are not very creative. That's the best user name you could come up with? What happened? Was "Indian Thief07" already taken? See, I am married to an Indian and I came up with the whole "living life with spice" thing. Should have called me for help with the user name.

And lastly....you must know that I am currently not drinking alcohol or eating sugar or bread. Because your actions have driven me to drink and eat bad things......and yet.....I cannot. So here I am....on the phone for hours today with Fraud protection, the bank, and every company you have shopped with on our card.......and I can't even look forward to a nice cold margarita afterwards........I get to have water. Yeah.

So, Mr. Identity Thief......I beg you to stop. Turn yourself in. Get help. There are no winners in the life of crime.....only lonely people.....who spend all their time.....searching for their great-great-great-great grandmother. You have got to ask yourself: What would she think about what you are doing?

And for goodness sake.....if you are going to steal....at least steal something useful.....like a Cold Stone Creamery truck or something.....

Sincerely,
Mr. and Mrs. Spice

Another Riveting Page From Mrs. Spice's Diary...

2007-11-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have been convicted about my negative attitude. Due to life's circumstances over the past 5 years....I have developed an "edge" as my Mom calls it. You know....a "glass half empty" attitude. I have a lot of grace for others.....but none for myself. Lately, I have been a pain in the patooty to be around. I am negative, cynical and I tend to complain a lot more than I am thankful.
Yesterday, a dear friend of 20 years sent me a story. She told me that God had placed my name on her heart after she read it. We haven't spoken in a while, but I know that God is using her to get my attention. God is sending me a message....a nice gentle message. He is telling me....Psalm 33:21! I don't want to ignore this message....I know what happens when I do!

Oh my dear friends, it is the cry of my heart to be joyful in Christ...

Here is the story that my friend sent me.....

The Thorns

Sandra felt as low as the heels of her shoes when she pulled open the
florist shop door, against a November gust of wind. Her life had been as
sweet as a spring breeze and then, in the fourth month of her second
pregnancy, a "minor" automobile accident stole her joy. This was
Thanksgiving week and the time she should have delivered their infant son.
She grieved over their loss.

Troubles had multiplied.

Her husband's company "threatened" to transfer his job to a new
location. Her sister had called to say that she could not come for her long
awaited holiday visit. What's worse, Sandra's friend suggested that Sandra's
grief was a God-given path to maturity that would allow her to empathize
with others who suffer. "She has no idea what I'm feeling," thought Sandra
with a shudder. "Thanksgiving? Thankful for what?" she wondered. "For a
careless driver whose truck was hardly scratched when he rear-ended her? For
an airbag that saved her life, but took her child's?"

"Good afternoon, can I help you?"

Sandra was startled by the approach of the shop clerk. "I . . . I need
an arrangement," stammered Sandra.

"For Thanksgiving? I'm convinced that flowers tell stories," she
continued. "Are you looking for something that conveys 'gratitude' this
Thanksgiving?"

"Not exactly!" Sandra blurted out. "In the last five months, everything
that could go wrong has gone wrong."

Sandra regretted her outburst, and was surprised when the clerk said, "I
have the perfect arrangement for you."

Then the bell on the door rang, and the clerk greeted the new customer,

"Hi, Barbara, let me get your order." She excused herself and walked
back to a small workroom, then quickly reappeared, carrying an arrangement
of greenery, bows, and what appeared to be long-stemmed thorny roses. Except
the ends of the rose stems were neatly snipped: there were no flowers.

"Do you want these in a box?" asked the clerk. Sandra watched - was this
a joke? Who would want rose stems with no flowers! She waited for laughter,
but neither woman laughed.

"Yes, please," Barbara replied with an appreciative smile. "You'd think
after three years of getting the special, I wouldn't be so moved by its
significance, but I can feel it right here, all over again," she said, as
she gently tapped her chest.

Sandra stammered, "Ah, that lady just left with . . . uh . . she left
with no flowers!"

"That's right," said the clerk. "I cut off the flowers. That's the
'Special'. I call it the Thanksgiving Thorns Bouquet. Barbara came into the
shop three years ago, feeling much as you do today," explained the clerk.
"She thought she had very little to be thankful for. She had just lost her
father to cancer; the family business was failing; her son had gotten into
drugs; and she was facing major surgery. That same year I had lost my
husband," continued the clerk. "For the first time in my life, I had to
spend the holidays alone. I had no children, no husband, no family nearby,
and too much debt to allow any travel."

"So what did you do?" asked Sandra.

"I learned to be thankful for thorns," answered the clerk quietly. "I've
always thanked God for the good things in my life and I never questioned Him
why those good things happened to me, but when the bad stuff hit, I cried
out, 'Why? Why me?!' It took time for me to learn that the dark times are
important to our faith! I have always enjoyed the 'flowers' of my life, but
it took the thorns to show me the beauty of God's comfort! You know, the
Bible says that God comforts us when we're afflicted, and from His
consolation we learn to comfort others."

Sandra sucked in her breath, as she thought about what her friend had
tried to tell her. "I guess the truth is I don't want comfort. I've lost a
baby and I'm angry with God."

Just then someone else walked in the shop.

"Hey, Phil!" the clerk greeted the balding, rotund man.

"My wife sent me in to get our usual Thanksgiving arrangement . . twelve
thorny, long-stemmed stems!" laughed Phil as the clerk handed him a tissue
wrapped arrangement from the refrigerator.

"Those are for your wife?" asked Sandra incredulously. "Do you mind
telling me why she wants a bouquet that looks like that?"

"Four years ago, my wife and I nearly divorced," Phil replied. "After
forty years, we were in a real mess, but with the Lord's grace and guidance,
we trudged through problem after problem, the Lord rescued our marriage.
Jenny here (the clerk) told me she kept a vase of rose stems to remind her
of what she had learned from "thorny" times. That was good enough for me. I
took home some of those stems. My wife and I decided to label each one for a
specific "problem" and give thanks for what that problem taught us."

As Phil paid the clerk, he said to Sandra, "I highly recommend the
Special!"

"I don't know if I can be thankful for the thorns in my life" Sandra
said to the clerk. "It's all too . . . fresh."

"Well," the clerk replied carefully, "my experience has shown me that
the thorns make the roses more precious. We treasure God's providential care
more during trouble than at any other time. Remember that it was a crown of
thorns that Jesus wore so we might know His love. Don't resent
the thorns."

Tears rolled down Sandra's cheeks. For the first time since the
accident, she loosened her grip on her resentment.

"I'll take those twelve long-stemmed thorns, please," she managed to
choke out.

"I hoped you would," said the clerk gently. "I'll have them ready in a
minute."

"Thank you. What do I owe you?"

"Nothing. Nothing but a promise to allow God to heal your heart The
first year's arrangement is always on me."

The clerk smiled and handed a card to Sandra. "I'll attach this card to
your arrangement, but maybe you would like to read it first."

It read:

"My God, I have never thanked You for my thorns. I have thanked You a
thousand times for my roses, but never once for my thorns. Teach me the
glory of the cross I bear; teach me the value of my thorns. Show me that I
have climbed closer to You along the path of pain. Show me that, through my
tears, the colors of Your rainbow look much more brilliant."

Praise Him for the roses; thank Him for the thorns

"Don't Make Me Come Over There.....You Do Not Want Me To Come Over There"....

2007-10-25T16:10:00.000-07:00

A real letter delivered to the management of our community. All names have been changed to protect the ignorant.....I mean innocent.

To Whom It May Concern:

My husband, daughter and I have lived in "ABC Apartment Complex" for approximately 19 months. We specifically chose "ABC Apartments" because we believed that the management held a certain standard of excellence for the property. Recently, we have had several concerning instances with the maintenance supervisor, "Phil".

Several months ago our water bill drastically went up. Concerned, my husband contacted the management at "ABC Apartments". They sent the maintenance supervisor, "Phil" to our apartment to investigate a possible water leak along with a work order to fix our dryer and dishwasher. I was home when "Phil" responded to our apartment. I explained to him the concern I had regarding our water bill, as well as the dishwasher and dryer problems. Immediately after I finished expressing my concerns, he rolled his eyes, walked over to the dishwasher and said, “I don’t smell anything bad.” I explained to him that there was a moldy, mildew smell and asked him if it could be a leak under the dishwasher. "Phil"replied, “No, there’s no leak.” I asked "Phil" he could at least look under the dishwasher to be sure. "Phil" replied, “No, I can’t pull it out or look under it.” At that time I was called into the next room to attend to my 2 year old daughter. While I was in the other room, "Phil" opened my dishwasher and poured bleach in and began a cycle. I was shocked and appalled. At the time, the dishwasher was completely full of clean dishes as well as every piece of our silverware. He said to me, “I poured bleach in the dishwasher to take away the smell. It’ll be fine.” It wasn't fine. The bleach rusted every single piece of silverware in the dishwasher. All of our silverware had to be thrown away.

After the dishwasher, "Phil" went to fix the dryer. The dryer timer did not work posing a serious electrical and fire hazard causing the dryer to run continuously, until it was manually shut off. During the time that "Phil" was “working” on the dryer issue, I was attending to my daughter in the other room. Minutes after he went to the dryer, he told me that he had replaced the dryer timer and it should be fine. It was not fine. After he left the dryer timer still did not work.

Before "Phil" left I asked him about a possible leak and why our water bill continued to be so high. He said, “There’s no leak that I could see” and then he left. Of course he did not see a leak because he never looked for one. He did not check our toilets, showers, water heater, sinks or dishwasher for a leak. In my opinion, he did not do his job.

The most disturbing incident with "Phil" that day was his comment to me as I entered the kitchen after he had poured bleach into the dishwasher. He said to me, “I have a question for you.” He then said, “Is your husband afraid of cowboys?” Confused, I said, “I don’t understand.” "Phil" laughed and said, “You know, because he’s Indian….Cowboys and Indians?” I could not have been more enraged and offended. How dare someone come into my home and make a racist, ignorant and insensitive comment to me about my husband. Especially, someone whom I trusted as an employee of the community where I live.

I would ask that you address these issues as soon as possible. We consider these very serious issues. Our family feels violated, after all, our apartment is more than a “unit” to us, this is our home.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Spice

Am I At the After Picture Yet?...

2007-10-22T17:26:00.000-07:00

Wow....here I am again talking about my weight.....ugh....is anyone else tired of it? Well, last Friday marked 5 weeks since I left the wonderful world of Starbucks and breadsticks.......and entered the cold cruel world of....."If you're hungry....drink water.....then wait 20 minutes....if you're still hungry after that snack on some raw, organic veggies." Thanks.

So after 5 weeks of exercising regularly and eating like a goat.....I have lost.....17 pounds......12 inches.......6 pant sizes.......3 shirt sizes.......4 bra sizes.......and 1 shoe size. Okay....just kidding about the shoe size. I am not amazed at the results.....I don't allow myself to be. I guess I just need to keep going.....after all.....today....I weigh 21 pounds less than what I weighed when I was 9 months pregnant. Whoa. So, as you can see.....I have a ways to go. But I am still motivated, still encouraged and still wanting a Venti Caramel Latte.

I haven't cried at an Olive Garden commercial since the first "incident".....so that is an improvement. And I did have a garden salad and a piece of pizza last week and did fine......the difference is.....I ate one piece of pizza.....not 4. So I have improved in my portion control.....that I am proud of.

Now.....I am waiting for Baby Spice to collect some Halloween candy......so I can give it away......instead of polishing it off in one night. That right there folks is how you know I have changed.......just the mere fact that I am not keeping any Halloween candy in the house this year. Last year by this time I had consumed 2 Costco sized bags of "fun-size" candy. See the "fun" thing about "fun-size" candy is that it is "fun" to eat the whole bag in one sitting.

So, things are progressing. But keep the encouragement coming.....after all.....Halloween's not over yet.....and I have to go to Costco to get salad mix.......hopefully I won't run into any "fun-size" samples....

Mr. Spice Goes to Town...

2007-10-15T17:36:00.000-07:00

Baby Spice and I are bachelorettes for a while. Mr. Spice is on a long business trip in Asia until November 1. His trip went from one week to two weeks to three weeks to 4 weeks and then back to 3 weeks. Let's hope it doesn't get too much longer. And since I sent the camera with Mr. Spice....I am unable to show you what I have been up to so far. So, I will tell you instead. First of all ...... my house is picked up and clutter free. The kitchen is clean and has stayed that way for 24 hours. Now I love, love, love my husband. Let's just say that sometimes he forgets where his shoes and the dishes and his mail.....belong.

My newest hobby is sewing. My Mom is teaching me. She sent me home with her sewing machine and we picked out a pattern and some fabric. I am making Baby Spice and I matching kitchen aprons. You know....for all the cooking Baby Spice and I do together. I promise to post pictures.....when I have a camera.

I am almost done knitting one scarf.....which will be a Christmas gift for.....someone. Then I bought the coolest yarn combination to start on another scarf and finish it by Christmas. Ahh...only 70 days until Christmas! I had better get to work.

The other project I have lined up is to bake my annual Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread and give them away as gifts. Ironically, I will not be eating any this year. Normally I can eat a loaf in one sitting.....which is probably what got me into trouble......I'll stick with fish and spinach this year.

So, a lot of projects and so little time. Please be praying for Mr. Spice's safety while he is traveling. And hey....if you are in the neighborhood.....or not.....and want to have a meal or just get together with Baby Spice and I......we've got a whole lot of time on our hands......cause we're just a couple of single gals......

Miracles and Answered Prayers....

2007-10-10T16:24:00.001-07:00

Lifequest Church Women's Retreat 2007

(From left to right)Heather, Kristi, Cathy, Robyn, Mikele, Katie, Mrs. Spice

Without knowing it, each woman (and some that aren't pictured) in that picture above is an answer to a specific prayer from me to God. Several years ago my mother and I began praying for some very specific friendships for myself. My requests....needs....desires were complicated......I was not praying for just any old friendship.....I had a list of requirements. Requirements only God could fulfill. Isn't He faithful that way? One by one God has placed these women in my life and they have impacted me, encouraged me, blessed me, challenged me and loved me.

I was terrified to attend the retreat. But I was determined not to let food or my own insecurities prevent God from teaching me and challenging me. I took away a great appreciation for treating people the way Christ treats people. Christ did not judge people on their looks or whether or not they were social stand-outs. He did not gossip about them or cause them to feel guilty for their actions. He simply loved them. And that is how I want to treat people. I simply want to love them....love them to Christ.

I learned many things about my new friends this weekend.....I thought I would share a few....

1. They like to cuddle in bed.....that will take a little getting used to for me.

2. They like pie.....lots of pie....not so much whipped cream.....but lots of pie.

3. They can talk you into doing things like...getting into a body harness and helmut and going on the 30 foot swing....

4. They love each other very much......and I love them.

5. They love bedtime stories......me too.

6. They know when to be serious......and when to read magazines and laugh.

7. They don't know when a moth is a moth and not a hummingbird. :-)

8. They treat each other with the utmost respect.....with a little sarcasm for fun thrown in.

9. They don't wash their hair everyday.....I love that about them.....really.

10. They love God with all of their hearts.......I love that the most. :-)

Okay, so my friends are the answered prayer.....and now for the miracle. Remember my tumor? The lipoma? Well, it's gone. I went to the surgeon today and he couldn't feel it......then he asked me to find it......I couldn't. It's gone. It was there....my doctor felt it, my dad felt it, my husband felt it......it was a large mass. But....it's gone. Praise God.....no surgery! Well......until I have the layers of lose skin removed.....a breast lift.....my eyelids raised......and a chemical peel. :-) You think I am kidding? :-)

Day 21....Meet Me At Taco Bell, Ya'll...

2007-10-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

Okay....so I made it. 21 days on a strict....no bread....no sugar.....no caffeine.....cleanse. I feel great. It's amazing how the body responds when you give it good stuff to work with. This morning I was putting on my bra and I realized that I can feel my rib cage. Now I am not saying that they are defined....but I can feel the presence of a rib cage that isn't hidden under layers and layers of padding.

I met with my trainer and nutritionist yesterday and we all decided that I would just continue the road I have been on. The eating program is working. The training is working. Since I am getting results....I might as well continue. I agree with them. So, I will continue eating meals on the cleanse, but I will mix them around a little to create more variety. I will also add in organic herbal tea and green tea. I swear, when my nutritionist told me I could have green tea and herbal teas as long as they are organic.....I almost thought is was Christmas. That is how mundane my eating has been. But I get it. I finally get it. See, the focus my whole life has been food. I obsess about what I am eating or not eating or should be eating or shouldn't be eating. It has ruled my world. But now my eating decisions are made for me. So when I go out of town or during the holidays or get invited over to someone's house.....I know what to do. I won't obsess about what they are serving....I take a small portion of what sounds good to me.....and enjoy it. Then.....I focus on the people around me....not the food. It's how God intended it to be. Food is fuel.....but we also use it for social gatherings......and that is okay.....as long as the people are the focus.....and not the food. I guess this weekend will be the real test! (See "Terrfied to go to Camp, below).

One friend asked about posting before and after pictures. I hadn't thought of that, but it's a great idea. I'll make sure I take some pictures this weekend and post them. This same friend said I was "hotter than Posh Spice".......oh, friend.....we are destined to be BFF's??!!

So, this week is our church's Women's Retreat. I am going. I am terrified. I have never been on a Women's Retreat. I don't usually put myself out there in a group of women I don't know. I am fine being open, transparent and honest on my blog....or even one on one......and in small groups.....like less than 6 people. But, 300+? Forget it. So, I feel like a 7th grader going off to a camp where I don't know any of the kids, but my parents really want me to "experience life." The only difference is now I won't be able to find a cute lifeguard and just make-out the whole weekend. In my head, when I picture a Women's Retreat.....it is a group of older women sitting around discussing quilting and canning and how they can't get their husbands to leave the garage and come in the house. I know most of the women I am rooming with are hot, young girls.....who love to party and haven't canned any vegetables in the years I have known them. So, it will be a leap of faith, this retreat. I am looking forward to see how God will grow me and use me to encourage and lift up my sista's....from otha' mista's.

Wow....the last few blogs have been like short stories.....thanks for hanging around my friends! I love all of you....no, really. Just because I haven't met you in person doesn't mean that we won't talk on the phone or by email or I won't hang outside your bedroom window and watch you sleep someday.