Thrift Store Amore

Rainy Day Race!

2012-01-22T09:30:00.000-08:00

I had my 10K yesterday in Ontario CA, I was running with what felt like an extra 10lbs from me being soaked from head to toe. Non stop rain from beginning to the end of the race. not a drizzle it was a pour. I have to say rain is worse that hills!

5K Holiday Classic!

2011-12-06T11:38:00.000-08:00

Sunday was my first race after the baby! The 5K Holiday Classic in Loma Linda, it was super cold. It was a tough course with a lot of killer hills but I did it, and I did well, I placed in my age group, I came in 3rd. I am going to pick up a special medal for my win!! What a way to come back to racing!! Yay me! Up next Ontario 10K January 21st.

Sack Dress

2011-11-29T18:17:00.000-08:00

This is the same concept as the handkerchief dress but scaled down, Super easy to make and she will be taking a pic with Santa in this.

Tag Blanket

2011-08-15T10:40:00.000-07:00

I saw this cute tag blanket at target for $10, and many more online for around $20. A tad expensive for me and I knew I could easily make one, all it is is fleece and ribbon. I went to Joann's at got this cute fleece remnant and some ribbon and tada! A tag blanket, I made another one this morning out of my scrap flannel, and I love it. I am hooked and I want to make more, the next one I plan to make is a Halloween one with jack o' lantern faces. So I figure I made these for less than $5, who doesn't love that.

Baby's First Book

2011-08-14T10:20:00.000-07:00

So I want to give my baby nothing but learning tools and toys, and what better way then for me to make some. I saw these cute fabric baby books at stores and they are not cheap, so with leftover fabric and supplies I made her her 1st baby book. I think it came out cute, I still have to stitch along each square to the page, I used heat bond then stitched all around each pic. I have so many other projects that I want to do I hope I have time, she is due next week(fingers crossed).

10 min. Fix

2011-07-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

I bought this dresser at Ikea and I love it, I saw a program on HGTV that a homeowner had one and when it was filled with clothes it looked messy. So I decided I would use some $1 wrapping paper that I had to cover the frosted plastic. 10 min. later and I love it, all i needed was painters tape and it looks cute!

Baby Shower!

2011-07-30T05:59:00.000-07:00

We had our baby shower last week, and I glad to say its finally over. It was so stressful planning it and executing it. I had so many ideas of what I wanted it to look like and what games I thought people would be interested in playing, I am so glad I never planned a big wedding. A friend of mine, and co-worker really helped me by creating some great decoration items, a diaper cake that I put on the gift table, a wishing tree and a diaper wreath that I forgot to take pic's of. I am really proud of my balloon arch, super easy and very cute. I cant wait to do another. We got some good stuff!

Ahead Of The Game

2011-06-26T06:17:00.000-07:00

I know she inst born yet, but in May my hubby and I went to Disneyland with my work and I picked up a mini mouse beanie for the baby, and I had an idea to dress her up ad mini for Halloween. I was looking for an infant mini mouse dress but they were insanely expensive, so I knew I could come up with something with all my scrap material I had, and tada, I made her her first Halloween costume. Its a onsie that I sewed a little skirt on that I made from some scrap fabric and scrap elastic. All I need to get is a pair of black tights and some yellow socks and she is set for her first Halloween.

The Countdown Is On!!

2011-05-31T06:14:00.000-07:00

Im in the home stretch, officially 7 months pregnant now and hubby and I are so excited to see this little girl! We are starting our child prep class next week and I am a little nervous, hope I can remember everything they tell me :)

Lamp

2011-05-18T18:45:00.000-07:00

I had seen this adorable lamp on the web for some time and was really considering buying it but its like $70 and that's just crazy. I happened to go to my fav. thrift store and see two brown treelike lamps I snatched one up and scored it on sale for $6. It took my hubby awhile to get it spray painted but It looks perfect in the nursery. I was thinking of adding some sparkly birds to it but I am on the fence. I am super proud of this little gen I found.

Crib Skirt

2011-05-09T16:43:00.000-07:00

I wanted a crib skirt for the crib as a way to store more things for the baby, like I said this room is pretty small and I need all the space I can find. I plan on placing plastic bins under with clothes that might not fit her yet, or toys. I was perusing online and saw some really great tutorials on how to make your own, and they seemed simple enough, so I tried my had at it. I went to the thrift store and amazingly I came across one for a $1 and snatched it up. I knew I had to make one a lot longer but I used it for the basic shape. I had this fabric for the longest time and I even forgot I had it, and it happens to be my colors I am doing the nursery in. I am not a great sewer and I sat down staring at the fabric for a while thinking on how I was going to attack this, because they say measure twice cut once. I almost cut the fabric not realizing the pattern would be sideways. I cut 3 inc. panels for the front so it would be long enough. Total time it took me 4hrs, total cost $1 . I am super thrilled that it actually came out looking like a crib skirt. I am having so much fun making things for my little girl :).

Laundry Bag

2011-05-07T08:57:00.000-07:00

When I went to ikea I had planned on getting a cute hamper for the baby's dirty clothes, but did not find anything. The nursery/sewing room is small as it is and I do not have a lot of floor space, so as I was looking online for some ideas on a space saving hamper I came across a great ideas for a laundry bag that hangs from the door. I had everything I needed to do it
.Embroidery hoop 14inc
.pillowcase
.scrap fabric and some ribbon
I added my own flair to it. Since I am doing owls and birds I used my scrap fabric I had and cut and appliqued everything you see on the bag. The laundry bag has a daddy owl mommy owl and baby owl with her name "Beatrice" I am pretty darn proud of it.

Field Trip!

2011-05-01T06:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my hubby and I took a field trip to Ikea! I love that place. I can be there for hours, in fact i was yesterday! We went there to get some things for the nursery and I scored some really great things. I wanted a comfortable chair that I can nurse the baby in and I found this jennylund one. We went to go pick it up at the end and it was out of stock...no!!!They were not going to get a shipment in until Monday and there was no way my hubby was driving back there. So as we were leaving to pay I wanted to go to the as-is section of the warehouse and there it was a floor sample of my chair and it was only $110 dollars, SCORE!! I snatched it up. It was a fun day!

It's A.......

2011-04-23T07:27:00.000-07:00

My Husband and I are expecting a GIRL!! Wow it feels real know, we can finally call it Her instead of "The Baby". I feel like I can finally start planning the theme of her room. The colors are various shades of pink and bright greens with a touch of light hued grays, and of course white. I also want Owl's,Birds and butterfly's, kinda woodland fairy theme but without the fairies. Here are some of my inspirations.

Its All Coming Together!

2011-04-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

So last week My hubby put together the crib, and I started to cry when I saw him doing it. I was overcome with joy,love and excitement, I know in my heart he is going to be such a good dad. I am so lucky to have this man in my life, I never would have dreamed I would be happily married awaiting the arrival of a beautiful baby. My heart is going to explode with love,I am so lucky. Doesn't he look adorable next to a crib!

Coaster Run!

2011-03-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

My hubby did the 10K Coaster Run at Knott's Berry Farm this morning and he placed 7th out of 39 people in his age group. I am so proud of him :) The weather was nice but 1min. before start it started to pour, bummer. It is so exciting to see parents out there running with their little kids. I picture My hubby and I doing that soon with our little one. After, we went to Mrs. Knott's for their champagne brunch, (mmm fried chicken and mashed potatoes), and that's were I met up with Snoopy.

Rag Time!

2011-03-13T08:38:00.000-07:00

I am loving that I am back to crafting, I have been a tad lazy lately, and have been itching to get back into the swing of things. For lent I have given up a lot of t.v time and am not watching t.v in my room before bed time. So this is my opportunity to get some stuff done. So that said my brother in law's step daughter is having a b-day along with my nephew next week and she is turning 9. I asked him what colors does she like and what is her bedroom is decorated like. Pink, Green, and butterflies. Easy! I made her a rag garland, I really enjoy making them and this one from start to finish took me about 3 hours. I cut the strips 6 inches long and 1 inch wide, I added wooden butterflies that sparkle on, and I think it came out cute. I hope she likes it.

Rock On!

2011-03-10T18:37:00.000-08:00

I work at a preschool and every March we have a silly week. One of our themes is rock star day, so my hubby graciously gave me one of his old band t shirts to cut up. I had no idea were to start, so went to good old you tube and found a Kat Von D tutorial on how to do so, it was super easy and it took me about 15 min. For the bottom I wanted to make a tutu (I had made one for my niece for her b-day) I did hot pink at black it came out super cute. Total time to make this outfit about an hour. I will post pick of when I wear it :).

I Am On A Roll!

2011-02-23T18:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I got home a little early from work and went straight to my craft/nursery room and jumped right into making a skirt for my craft table to hide all my stuff under it since space is very limited now (making room for baby). I bought a X long twin sheet set for $10 at target and sew able Velcro and tada, I got a table skirt. It took all of 10 minuets to sew. I want to add pom poms to jazz it up a bit.

Changing Table

2011-02-21T15:58:00.000-08:00

So here is the piece I was using as a desk that I am going to use as the changing table. I have to mention that I bought this about 5 years ago for $5 dollars! I bought a nice green contact paper with a simple design on it at target and bought those green bins at the 99 cent store and TaDa! a nice changing table. I want to paint a mirror I also bought at the thrift store a glossy white to put above it and I think it will look beautiful. I will have to commission my mom for the job :)

Finally Shopping!

2011-02-21T02:43:00.000-08:00

So I am 3 1/2 months as of today, and on Saturday my mom and I went all over the place to find the baby's crib.Its simple a vintage looking that's why I like it. My husband was such a sport, he drove us all over the place, and didn't even complain once. We went to Super Baby Depot, 2 Baby's R Us and finally found it at Walmart, and it was on clearance for $88 dollars. For that price I bought the Mattress then and there too! I have had this retro dresser for years and was using it as my computer desk and thought it would bake a great changing table and the top is the exact size of a changing pad. I also scored a bunch of baby furniture from my brother and sister in law, a swing, a bouncer, and extra car seat, a play mat and a little play chair. I am all about saving money. We are so anxious to find the sex out so we can do some serious shopping and finally pick my colors.

The best thing I ever ate!

2011-02-10T05:34:00.000-08:00

So last night I ate one of the best and most favorite foods of mine in the whole world!! A CHEESEBURGER....I did not feel one ounce guilty, it was sooo good, I know it was a craving because I slathered it with thousand island dressing on each bite and I never eat that stuff. It totally satisfied my craving.

1+1= 3

2011-01-21T17:04:00.000-08:00

So its official, my hubby and I are having a baby! We are so excited, scared, anxious and everything else that comes with being first time parents. People have been asking me what I hope its going to be, and honestly I just want it (baby) to be healthy with 10 fingers 10 toes!! This baby is truly a blessing for me and my hubby and we are going to do our best to show it as much love and respect that our parent both showed to us. I only hope I can do as good of a job as my mom did with me and his parents did with him.

A Hollywood Holiday!

2010-12-13T03:25:00.000-08:00

Saturday was my company Christmas party and the theme was A Hollywood Holiday. They had trivia games and I actually volunteered to go up for movie trivia, I sucked but i had balls going up there in front of everyone. I didn't win any of the raffle prizes but my coworker did , she won a net-book. At least someone won in our dept. My Hubby and I had fun my feet are still feeling the effects of hours of dancing while wearing new shoes, but damn I look good doing it!

Tamale Time!

2010-12-06T03:12:00.000-08:00

Well Saturday my mom came over to my house and we made our Christmas Tamales. All together we came out with 17 dozen. We did Pork (of course) Chicken, Cheese and green chili, and OMG Turkey, they are awesome.I cant tell you how many years I have done this with my mom, its tradition. I am all about keeping family traditions alive. I hope one day to share in this tradition with my own children.

Happy One Year Anniversary!

2010-11-04T18:14:00.000-07:00

Well its been one year since we have been married! Were does the time go. This is on our way to dinner.

Trick or Treat!

2010-10-30T07:46:00.000-07:00

Well this past Thursday My school goes trick or treating around the Reservation, and my co-workers and I dressed up as the cast of Alice in Wonderland. I was Alice, my co-teacher was the Mad Hatter, the others were the White Rabbit, Cheshire Cat and the director was the Queen of hearts. The kids loved it. I made my whole costume for under $15. I bought the blue dress at the thrift store, and bought the tights, I made the apron out of scraps I had, I made the headband out of scrap ribbon, and I made the wig, I am super proud of the wig. I am already thinking of possible costumes I can make for next year.

Decorating Done!

2010-09-26T08:13:00.000-07:00

So my mom came over to help me decorate for Halloween (early I know) but I love this time of year. So here is the finished project I have been working on for a couple of weeks. I found these awesome glitter silhouettes at the 99 cent store and knew they would be perfect. I painted candle sticks from the thrift store black and put a wooden dowel in it and hot glued the glitter silhouette's on and tada! I am going to place them on my kitchen window.

Here It Is!

2010-09-24T05:46:00.000-07:00

Today I am thirty years old! Wow, I am taking this a little harder that I thought. Turning thirty is making me reflect on my life and the things I have done and still want to do. I was looking online for some inspiration on turning thirty and one man wrote 30 things that rock about turning 30 and one in particular really hit me. "Thirty is when you stop finding yourself, and start creating yourself". I am going to live by that now. Happy Birthday To ME!!

Happy September!

2010-09-01T04:40:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year, the nights are getting cooler, Halloween decorations fill the shelves at stores, and school starts. I am promising myself that this month is dedicated to getting all my Halloween crafting FINISHED! I have completed the bats and now want to make flying witch silhouettes. I also want to create a wreath for the front door along with topiary filled with real pumpkins, and of course my glitter pumpkins.

Ideas....

2010-08-08T06:57:00.000-07:00

As summer is winding down I am starting to get that itch to start crafting for the holidays, and I need ample time to finish all these ideas that I have for my Halloween decor, not to mention my costume. I wanted to do more for my front door this year not just a wreath and I came across this great idea of felt bats on the door and spread out to the wall, like a swarm of creepy bats.

The Countdown!!

2010-08-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

Today marks the start of my Marathon training. Went out late today and it was bloody warm. The 11 miles seemed very long and hard, but I have to point out I took two days off from running due to exhaustion. Really, I was exhausted from working out. So I knew today's run was going to be tough. As always I will push on to complete this task I set forth for myself and hope not to loose my marbles in the process....lol! This 4 months will fly by I know it! I must RUN along!!!!!

Half!

2010-07-05T07:45:00.000-07:00

So Sundays are my long runs, and I have been in my first build up phase of my marathon training. I have really been pushing myself these past couple of weeks and yesterday my target was to run 12 and I was feeling a little beat up around mile 7 but I dug deep tried to zone out and kept pushing and ended up running 13.1 miles! I ran a HALF MARATHON yesterday!!!! I just have to get over the 13 mile hump, and in a couple of weeks bump it up to 14-15 milers on Sundays and soon to 20 milers! I was super excited!!

Polyvore Please!

2010-06-27T07:19:00.000-07:00

I don't know if anyone knows of this website, but I have been obsessed with it for id say over a year. This site is dedicated to all the fun and funky fashionistas who put together some really interesting and beautiful "sets" as they call it of clothes shoes and accessories. I go on about everyday just to see whats new. I am an avid thrift store shopper and have been buying nothing but clothes and I get ideas before I head out on what to get and what would work with what I already have. I kills me now to buy pants at a "regular" store, I bought a pair of jean Capri's at Kohl's (on sale mind you for $15 and that hurt..lol..because usually I spent about $4 on pants at the thrift store and they are old navy or express or Roxy. Its just a great website for the sometimes fashionably challenged like myself or just to look at really cool clothes and accessories and the color combos people come up with that I would have never thought go together are amazing.

Mission Organization!

2010-06-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

For the longest time I have been disgusted with my closet and have attempted many times to organize it but it would never stay clean. So I have been itching to get this this organized right once and for all! Oh and it gives me an excuse to go shopping (for bins and such). I even cleaned out my dressers and packed away all my clothes that I don't wear but don't really want to part with yet. All my shoes are in my shoe organizer, I bought plastic shoe containers, and a new hamper, I can actually see the closet floor now! And my hubby finally got around to hanging all the pics on the walls of the bedroom, bathroom and hall, this house is finally coming together, its ONLY been a year ;)

Cardio Blast!

2010-06-05T04:25:00.000-07:00

There is nothing quite like slamming your fist into a punching bag! I highly recommend exercise therapy. Sometimes the best workouts are those that are fueled by anger and frustration. I bought this nifty little gadget a few months ago and finally got a chance to use it. Its a rounds timer for boxing. I set up how many rounds I want and how long I want them to last two min. or three min. and 30 sec. break or 60 sec. break. I clipped it onto the waist band and hit start, a bell rang like I was in the actual boxing ring!I did 12 rounds 2 min. each round, one round for jumping rope at high speed for two min and hitting the bag for two. Non stop for 30 min pouring sweat I felt GREAT! Looking forward to next week when I go at it again.

I DID IT!!!

2010-05-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took my final exam and my practical to become a Certified Personal Trainer, and I PASSED! All I need now is to complete my 20 hrs. internship and I can start training people. I have been so stressed over the past 6 weeks with this class doubting myself, but I tried it and I did it. Wow I feel great!

Rock and Roll!

2010-05-01T05:56:00.000-07:00

OMG, Its official I am all signed up for the Las Vegas Rock and Roll MARATHON!!!Its not just a thought in my head anymore its reality. This is it, this is what I have been training for THE BIG ONE! I hope and Pray that from now until Dec. that everything runs smoothly as far as training and injury prevention goes. There is no backing out now.

Beautiful Day!

2010-04-25T12:43:00.000-07:00

Nothing beats a beautiful warm Sunday and a invigorating 9 mile run up at the lake! Now off to lunch and running our errands.

Slow And Steady Wins The Race!

2010-04-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

Well I didn't win the race, but I ran another Half Marathon! After I injured myself from my first one 7 months ago, and being told by my doctor to slow it down a really think about decreasing my mileage I got very discouraged to say the least. But I have been keeping up with my Physical Therapy strengthening and stretches and my training and 7 months later I did it! Next up another Half in August and in December VEGAS,"HERE WE COME", the husband and I are going to do the Rock and Roll Marathon (Yep, 26.2 miles).

Fitness First!

2010-04-09T07:49:00.000-07:00

Since I have been on this weight loss journey and have been told by many people how I have inspired them to make changes in their lives, I feel it is my duty to keep inspiring and motivating those around me. It will also help me stay on track and keep me motivated on a daily basis knowing people count on me to help them change their life. So tomorrow I start my class to become a Certified Personal Trainer. My goal after this course is to help those people who think its too late to get fit, think they have too much to lose and are too scared to try. I want to help them on their journey and let them know change happens one day at a time!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T05:34:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Easter!

Cross Training

2010-03-22T05:20:00.000-07:00

Since I have been having issues with my legs due to running, and sometimes its hard for the hubby and me to get up to the lake and ride our bikes on Saturdays I decided to invest in a bike trainer. I also what to bump up my all round workouts I think my body is adapting to my regular routine and I need to mix it up once again. Cycling is one of the most efficient ways runners can train while not putting added strain and pressure on knees and other leg joints. So I bought a new bike trainer on eBay for $82 bucks and have my beach cruiser on it, and I did 30 min this morning 4am. Hubby and I are looking into getting new bikes me a mountain bike and him a road bike. Eventually we both want to train for bike races and maybe even join a bike club.

Happy B-Day Andrew!

2010-03-21T07:44:00.000-07:00

Want to wish the love of my life a happy B-day!!!We went to Knotts Berry Farm to celebrate, the weather was nice and warm aww love spring!

Im Ok.....I Think!

2010-03-20T06:23:00.000-07:00

It is going on five days now that I have been drinking only one cup of coffee per day. Anybody who knows me knows how much I LOVE coffee, but I am cutting back and instead of having that second or third cup of coffee, I am adding in green tea. I always hear how good it is for you and that it raises your metabolism and is a natural fat burner so I decided to implement it to my daily diet. I am slowly trying to cut out all possible sugars (refined) its all about natural sugars that occur already in fruits veggies and in dairy. I have stopped using sugar substitutes in my iced tea and am slowly decreasing my consumption of packaged and processed food like baked chips, 100 cal popcorn bags (I bought an air popper) I want to be able to control what is in my food. I am going all Natural!

Photo Shoot!

2010-03-07T17:05:00.001-08:00

Today was so surreal, I arrived at the location and had my hair and makeup touched up, I was super nervous. There was some confusion as to what group I was in, They were having people that worked at the clinic being photographed for a model search I guess. I over heard the director of the shoot talking about a woman who was in this lighten up program and had lost a bunch of weight and decided not to go through the lap band surgery, I was like "hey hes talking about me" :) I pulled out my fat pants and everyone in the room gasped! No one believed it was real. It felt so good to put up those pants and show everyone what I have accomplished. My Husband was documenting this special moment with a flip camera, and he is talking to the crew. Take a look at my day today, I still cant believe it :)

For some reason it wont let me upload the video, I will keep trying and hopefully get it working soon.

Lights, Camera, Action!

2010-03-03T19:09:00.000-08:00

I am super excited to post that I received a call yesterday from the Director of the health education program I take part it and was asked if I would like to partake in a photo shoot and tell my story!!!! I said heck yes! They will use my pictures on billboards, magazines and pamphlets. I am so honored to be able to share my story and show people that it can be done through nutrition and physical activity. Yippee :)

Real Women Lift Weights!

2010-02-18T05:57:00.000-08:00

Now that I surpassed my weight loss goal I am now making things interesting with adding more intense weight training. I am up to 3x a week for 15 min and my arms are pretty ripped. I am so looking forward to spring/summer to wear tank tops. I am also going to add in hitting the punching bag a few times a week with my cross training. I saw some really neat pink ones at sports authority. I don't want my body to get used to the same old routine that I have been doing for a while now.

Put A Little Love In Your Heart!!

2010-02-14T07:21:00.000-08:00

I want to wish everyone a Happy Valentines Day! Valentines is not just for Lovers its for everyone you Love :)Put a little love in your heart, and spread it around.

The Month of Love!

2010-02-08T05:40:00.000-08:00

Goes without saying February is the month of love, so I want to post a little something to acknowledge that special man in my life. To my wonderful husband, who works so hard for us, who is so kind to me and others around him. He has so much love to give and he gives it without limitations, he will never complain if he is tired or in pain, I truly love and respect this man with all my being. I am Proud to say he is all mine :) This if for you Andrew... I LOVE YOU!!! ;*

5 Months in the Making...

2010-01-31T15:11:00.000-08:00

Ever since I completed the Disneyland Half marathon and came out with some injuries, I am happy to report I have signed up for my second Half. It will be the " A Run Through Redlands" the very first race I ran last year (the 5k). I have spent the last almost five months recuperating my knees with Physical Therapy, stretching, and slow and steady building up my mileage again. I did 10 miles today and I feel great! It has been a while since I have been able to log 20 plus mile in a week. My official training starts next week and I hope all goes well because come December I am going for 26.2 miles in Las Vegas!!

MMM...Menudo!

2010-01-16T07:59:00.001-08:00

This morning I am attempting to make Menudo. I haven't had it in a while and I have been trying to venture out from my same old menu that I go by every week. The husband is very excited to try it. He wanted to know what was in it and I said "you might not want to know ":). The lady at the meat counter gave me a grossed out look when I told her I needed a pound of beef tripe. She asked "what are you cooking with that"! I told her Menudo! she looked horrified, what people don't eat menudo anymore with the meat!! It brings back good memories when I was a youngin when making Menudo was an all day event kinda like making tamales. Well its in the crock pot and hopefully it turns out yummy else the husband might not trust me to cook anymore...haha!

Xmas Party

2009-12-13T10:00:00.000-08:00

Friday night was my company xmas party didnt win any prizes but here are a few pics.

Cake and Giving Thanks!

2009-12-05T06:37:00.000-08:00

I remember years ago my mom had told me when she was a little girl she always wanted a Barbie Cake. So this year I made her a Barbie Mermaid cake. It was super easy to make and I think it came out pretty good. Here are a couple of pics from Thanksgiving. Didn't get there in time to see my older sis and my niece, but here is my mom and sister Adriana.

Being Thankful

2009-11-26T06:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I am thankful for my wonderful husband, who works so hard, I am thankful for my job even when at times I feel like I want to give up, I don't because I know many people would kill to be working right now. I am thankful for my family, we are slowly rebuilding our relationships together for the better. I hope everyone takes a minute to really think about what they are thankful for on this day.

Speaking Out

2009-11-13T18:05:00.000-08:00

I was invited to speak at the Lighten Up program meetings on Monday Nov.16Th. I showed the program director the picture of me in my "fat pants" and he was floored. He passed the picture around and I heard gasps, and he asked if I would speak and I told him I was honored. I am nervous but very excited to share my story and I hope to inspire someone to want to work that much harder because anything you set your mind to you can accomplish it.

The Mr. and Mrs.

2009-11-06T17:36:00.000-08:00

I am Married! Wow what an adventure this weekend was. I am happy to say I enjoyed every moment of my special day. I woke up early to work out, got my hair and makeup done, stayed in the hotel room for a lite lunch and by the time I knew it it was time to get dressed. Andrew was pleasantly surprised when he saw my dress for the first time, its not what he expected but better he said. I felt so beautiful it truly was the perfect day. Here are our pics we took, hope soon to get the others of the actual ceremony.

This Is It!

2009-10-29T17:28:00.001-07:00

This Is It! Saturday I will be in Vegas in a gondola on lake Mead exchanging my vows to the love of my life. I am so excited yet nervous, I pray everything goes as planned, I promised myself not to worry and enjoy the day. I will enjoy being pampered getting my hair and makeup done. I want to be fully aware of what is happening and not let stress fog my memory of this special day.

Half The Woman!

2009-10-12T20:23:00.000-07:00

As a reminder to myself I kept a pair of pants in the biggest size I got up to which was a size 26. I was talking to a woman at a friends get together and she was tell me what an inspiration I have been on our mutual friend and how she told everyone in her office about me and that she herself has lost 30lbs. It made me feel so good to know that I can have a positive impact on people, people I don't really know. She had made a comment that she bets I could fit in one leg of those old size 26 pants, I had never thought of doing the obligatory weight loss commerical thing were the man/woman is in a huge pair of pants. I tried it and I was shocked! Here is that pic.

What I am Loving This Season!

2009-10-04T09:27:00.000-07:00

I have become quite obsessed with fashion lately, I have always been intrigued but even more so with loosing weight. As the weather is getting cooler I am stocking my closet with this years must haves. The black sparkle flat, bright fuchsia scarf, hounds tooth sweater vest, nude dress, black opaque tights, and of course a boot with some hardware. I have spent so much money on clothing due to the weight loss I have found my self back at the thrift stores buying clothes! I have found some awesome fall/winter pieces that I will share next post.

Happy Birthday To ME!

2009-09-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

My guy took me out to dinner and got me what I have been wanting for the longest time, a Nintendo DS :) I love it!! I cant put it down. Here is a pic of us before heading out to dinner.

Showered With Love!

2009-09-23T19:23:00.000-07:00

I had my Bridal Shower on the 19Th and It was a lot of fun. My Mom and Sister out did themselves, everything was beautiful! It was so nice to have everyone come together and share this special time with me. I got some really great stuff :) We played the Toilet paper wedding dress game, famous t.v couples, the name game, here are some highlights!

Disney Half Marathon 2009!

2009-09-07T07:24:00.000-07:00

I DID IT! It was 8 months of training and working my way up 5K, 10K now a Half Marathon under my belt, next up FULL MARATHON 26.2 Miles. I am going to do a full for my 30Th birthday next year. I have another Half planned for November and another in January. Of course my mom and my sister came down to support me :). Here are pics from last year and this year, it blows my mind every time I look at them.

Hard at Work!

2009-08-30T05:13:00.000-07:00

I have been busy crafting these crepe paper rosettes for my bridal shower, they are not quite done but the hard part is. These will be used for a game. These pea pots I painted and glittered will be for the tables and will have tissue paper pom poms in them. I am actually getting things done and not procrastinating. Its my new outlook on life the " I can do ANYTHING" mentality.

Before and After!

2009-08-14T18:38:00.000-07:00

I am proud to say that to date I have lost 128lbs (One Hundred Twenty Eight Pounds)!!! Without surgery! I did it through nutrition and lots of physical activity. Anyone can do it, Its not easy but it can be done. I did it for me because I want to live a long happy life with my future Husband. I have been on this journey since Sept. 15th 2008. It has been the hardest and the most rewarding journey of my life. I have my Half Marathon Sept. 6th (13.1 miles) and I am so nervous, but excited at the same time. I promised my self a year ago when my guy did the Disney Half that I will do it with him, and I AM!!!!

Idyllwild 10K

2009-06-06T16:11:00.000-07:00

Today was my 10K (6.2 miles)in Idyllwild and the scenery was awesome! It was super cold in the morning,elevation was above 5,000 feet and the course was hilly, but I did it, I didn't stop I kept going!! My time was 1:19:53 I was aiming for 1:20 woohoo! Andrew ran the course with me for support :). Next week my training begins for the Disney Half Marathon (13.1 miles) in September.

Vegas!

2009-05-25T08:46:00.000-07:00

My guy and I went to Las Vegas earlier this month to get things done before the wedding. We got our wedding license, and we saw the venue, it is so beautiful, he was amazed on how pretty the location was. Soon my mom and sister will be with me to pic out my wedding dress :)

I DID IT!!

2009-04-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

I Did It! I ran my first 5K, I have been training since January for this and I never in a million years would have thought I would run in a actual event ( I never thought I would be running period!). It was really hot that morning and because of my nerves my mouth was super dry but I got threw it and didn't stop once! I ran all 3.1 miles in 38 min. It was awesome having my mom and sister there along with Andrew cheering me on! Like Andrew did for me,I thing I inspired my mom and sis to get out there and join an event!

Super Incredible Kids Day!

2009-03-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

At work we have a week of silliness for the kids, we have a dress like a rock star, twins day, crazy hair day, pajama day and a super incredible kids day were they dress like a superhero. It was a lot of fun and yesterday I dressed up like Kim Possible (I didn't have a red wig) I am holding a Kim Possible doll in my hand, the kids loved it, and my coworker dressed as Wonder woman!

One Month Away!

2009-03-19T19:53:00.000-07:00

I am training for my 5K and I am so nervous but super excited at the same time! Its one month away and been training hard. My guy is excited to be on the sidelines cheering me on!

Shadowbox

2009-03-03T18:29:00.000-08:00

For my guys b-day on March 21st I wanted to finally do his shadowbox of is first Half Marathon (Disney Half Marathon). I was going to buy a custom one online but I think it will mean more to him if I did it myself, also the one online is over $200! So I was browsing online just to get some ideas (this pic I found on a blog), I really have to research a project before I do it because I don't want to screw anything up. I need to incorporate his bib number, a certificate they sent him with his time, place and rank, his metal and of course pics. I got a really nice frame at Joann's a 12x12 black shadowbox, I need to add a foam back to pin his metal in. I will share pics as I work on it.

My Journey

2009-02-24T19:55:00.000-08:00

I have been on an incredible journey, and thought I would share it with all who might come across this blog. Here is a pic of me and my wonderful guy August 31st 2008 and now February 14Th 2009 about 5 months and 62 lbs lighter. I have about 26 more pounds to be at my goal and will not stop there. Wow, it still blows my mind when I look back at pic's just 5 months ago.

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T12:35:00.001-08:00

What To Get Him

2009-02-04T19:36:00.000-08:00

I don't think its fair of us to ask for flowers, jewelry, and a fancy dinners on Valentines day and not get him anything. Since I have been with my guy I have always tried to get him a little something special on Valentines day( he still has all the cards and the stuff animal I got him from years ago) I saw some really cute and quirky gifts I think he might like.

Tiny Banner

2009-01-22T18:03:00.000-08:00

I found this adorable tiny heart banner on a blog A Field Journal,it was super easy to do, and I had everything I needed on hand. I want to make a tiny banner for every holiday now!

A New Year, A New Me!

2009-01-04T08:12:00.000-08:00

I had a great new years day, my guy and I spent the day at Disneyland (very packed, but when is it not) and finished the day off with a romantic dinner by the bayou (in Pirates of the Caribbean) we sat by the water listening to the crickets, perfect end to a perfect day! This year is a big year for my guy and I. We are getting married, he is turning "30", I am going to run a 5K, he is running a Full marathon (26.2 miles) and we WILL run Disney together (13.1 miles) My resolution this year it to CHALLENGE MYSELF! to push myself harder and accomplish the things I have set out to do. To overcome any obstacle that comes my way. I can achieve anything!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T12:30:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas! Be kind to one another!

Oh Christmas Tree

2008-12-15T21:48:00.000-08:00

I finally got my tree all decorated! I kept the colors traditional gold, red and green. I used plaid ribbon, and sparkly bulbs of all kinds. I just love it.

Fabric Rag Garland

2008-11-30T09:56:00.000-08:00

Well I wanted to create a advent calendar for my mantel this year but when I came across this awesome thread of Flicker.com I knew I just had to do one! A fabric rag garland. I did mine on a string of 50 white lights and all the material I used I had from last year, so this project only cost me $4.00 for the lights and gold ribbon. I love the way it turned out. Here are some really great fabric garlands I found on flicker. Enjoy

Happy Thaksgiving!

2008-11-27T07:03:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the wonderful man in my life, for my will and determination, MY JOB, and most of all I am thankfully for my mommy :) I hope everyone has a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

Cancelled!

2008-11-16T04:17:00.000-08:00

So it around 4 am right now, and my guy got the email that they were canceling the Pasadena Marathon due to unsafe air quality from the recent fires. I feel terrible for him, he has been training since the last half marathon he did in August and has been looking forward to this. On to the next, he says!

A Must

2008-11-12T20:32:00.000-08:00

For the longest time I have wanted an advent calendar. I would really love to make one or buy one, and I was trying to get some ideas and came across these cute ones. I am leaning more towards felt stars along my mantel. I have an idea in my head and need to draw it out.

One Of Those Days

2008-11-08T18:17:00.000-08:00

Ever have one of those days when something bad or good happens and it leaves you in shock and kinda confused, and all you can to is replay the whole thing out in your head over and over again and try to think of a moment that maybe you could have said something different or not at all. Well yesterday was one of those days. I know that things happen for a reason and we all probably could not have avoided this situation, you see the tension has been building up and yesterday was the breaking point for I think all of us. I have HAD it!! I am TIRED, I want to MOVE ON! I want to LET IT GO! I know it might hurt some people when I say, sometimes I wish I could DIVORCE my family!!! I am putting yesterday behind me and wishing that maybe one day we can all forgive each other.

Wow!

2008-11-01T08:41:00.000-07:00

Wow, have I been busy! I haven't posted in a while because I haven't had much time to really do anything, so here are some pics of the past couple weeks. Craft fair went well, made a few bucks and met alot of great people. I had a lot of fun and will defiantly do it again next year. I didn't get a pic of me in the actual costume (crazy busy day with kids) but here is the cape finished. I am super proud of myself for sewing this, I had a pattern but patterns use to scare me, not anymore! I really helped having a dress form (Did I mention I got one for my b-day!!!!) and last I wanted to glitter some pumpkins for Halloween but again didn't have time, so I decided I would do them for my harvest decorating. They came out really good I think.

How Many Of Me?

2008-10-10T18:11:00.000-07:00

I came across this website howmanyofme.com and I was surprised to find out that there are 32,064 people with my first name. Some people would say I have a unique name but its pretty common among Hispanics.

HowManyOfMe.com

There are
3
people with my name in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Dress Up

2008-10-04T07:40:00.000-07:00

SO as you know I work with kids and all they have been talking about is what they are going to be for Halloween. On the 30Th of October the kids and us teachers are going to trick or treat around the reservation and I just have to dress up! I was originally going to dress up as a witch, but I don't want the kids to get scared or get the wrong impression, so I thought long and hard and I really have always wanted to be Little Red Riding Hood! (a vintage version, not a hoochi one) plus its a chance to make some of my costume like my mom always did when we were little. The important part of the costume is the red cape, and I found a pattern online and it seems do-able. I am so excited to get started, and I better start soon Halloween is creeping up :) Here are some pics of my inspiration.

What A Hoot!

2008-09-26T11:33:00.000-07:00

So my sister is very much into owls these days, I have been seeing them pop up in home decor and even on purses. I was browsing the net and found many cute pics of owls, you would be surprised how many people collect owls of all types. Here are some of my favorite pics that I found.

HAPPY B-DAY TO ME!!!

2008-09-24T06:16:00.001-07:00

Pow Wow

2008-09-19T16:14:00.000-07:00

I work for a school on an Indian Reservation, and today we went to their annual Pow Wow. We had a special preview of whats to come this weekend at the casino. All the dancers were amazing, some of the dances were the Grass dance, Jingle Dress dance, and the Fancy Shaw dance. We head a few Bird songs sung by members of the tribe I work for. At the end they invited all of us down to join in a circle and dance with the dancers, it was very exciting!

Trix or Treat!

2008-09-15T20:18:00.001-07:00

It has been a while since I carved a real pumpkin! So I decided that this year is the year me and my guy will each get a real pumpkin and carve it to put out on Halloween night. I was looking on Flicker.com for some inspiration, and look at these cool carvings, my sister will love this Betty Paige one :) enjoy!

Papel Picado

2008-09-11T18:35:00.001-07:00

This is another project that I am working on for the fair. It is very labor intensive since you are cutting very delicate tissue paper. I have always loved the way these paper banners have looked, I remember going do to Olvera Street in L.A with my family and seeing these banners all along the street, colorful and with such pretty designs. I did some last year for my moms birthday party with a fiesta theme, these are a Dia De Los Muertos theme with two styles of skulls. 10 panels of assorted colors is going for $8.00. I am working on different patters and themes. Leave me a comment If you would like to purchase a banner!

A Little Something

2008-09-09T18:30:00.000-07:00

Here is a little something that I am working on for the craft fair, Halloween treat cones. I really love making these cones and the little candy cups, I think its because I get to work with crepe paper! I made the crepe paper fringe around the cone, its very simple. I will have to do a tutorial nest post!

Linens and Things

2008-09-06T17:49:00.001-07:00

So today I treated myself to a pedicure ( I really needed it) and a thrift store shopping spree. I had gotten a gift from a coworker for my birthday a crisp $20.00 I spent $17.00, wow that's a lot 4 meI usually only manage to spend at the most $8.00, but boy did I get alot of loot! All this will be up for sale at my table on October 18th and 19th for the Annual Elks Craft Fair. Just look at all the beautiful linens I found. Two beautiful yellow square table cloths (in great condition) with a 3 inch lace border, paid $4.00 for both!!! I was looking through the scrap fabric pile and came across this bag full of colors, I didn't open it, the colors were too Happy for me not to get it! I opened it up and it was this awesome log cabin style quilt (not finished) beautifully sewn, for $1.50!!! I spotted this pink card table table cloth a while back going for $6 but got it for $2.50. A cute circle x mas table cloth. A beautiful silk Shiaparelli undis,nylon bag for $1.00 (one going online for $30.00) And last a blue better homes and gardens baby book from 1959, inside is in perfect condition but a fade pink writing on the front. I had my thrift store fix for the weekend!

Cut and Paste

2008-09-05T21:09:00.000-07:00

For the longest time I have wanted to make a journal, an inspirational journal. I have tons of magazines that I have collect over the years from subscriptions to thrift store finds just piled up in my closet collecting dust. I have kept them because I see a pic or project that I want to do or its just pretty! I always forget what it was I wanted that magazine for and miss out buying the supplies I need because I forgot what it was I needed to get. So with this blank journal I can grab a pair of decorated edge scissors and glue it right onto my pages. I also like to sketch ideas for future crafts. I think I need to take a little trip to Walmart and get it!

Glitter!

2008-09-04T20:11:00.000-07:00

So I have been looking around for some inspiration on my holiday decorating. I have wanted to do these glitter pumpkins I saw on Martha's website a few years back and I think this year is the year. I am liking the bronze, orange, rust tones like the ones in the picks. I wont be glittering real pumpkins I will use some from the dollar store, more bang for my buck since glitter is so expensive, especially Martha's glitter!

Marathon Man

2008-09-01T10:13:00.000-07:00

HE DID IT! I am so proud of him that I could just burst. There were over 10,000 runners on Sunday and over 6,000 of them were woman! His sister came down for support, and to keep me company while we wait to catch a glimpse of him run by.
The run started at 6am and his corral number was E they let people out in waves. First wave was A then B and so on, so he was let out at 6:10 am and I caught a dark pic of him heading to the start. His sister and I waited at the 4 mile mark because I knew his time and know he would be coming in at about 6:50am and he was right on time, look at that smile you could tell he was loving every minute of the race.
After the 4 mile mark we headed straight to the finish to get a good view of him as he finished. His time was 2:23.13 two hours twenty three minutes and thirteen seconds. Look at that Medal, I am going to make a shadow box for him to display it in his office. I took pics of him the day before the race at the Health and Fitness Expo.

Quick Craft

2008-08-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

So this is the big weekend for Andrew his half marathon (13 miles) at Disneyland!! He has been working his butt of for the past three months training for this day (Sunday). This man dedicates himself 100% to anything he puts his mind to. He is my hero! So with that said I will be cheering him on in the sidelines wearing this shirt I made
" Kick ASSphalt Andrew". I wanted something bright so he can see me (he will be wearing a similar color shirt on race day), I will be taking tons of pics this weekend of him and the race. GO ANDREW!!

Sign, Sealed, Delivered!

2008-08-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

I sent out my application to be a vendor at this years Craft Bazaar!! I had to pull out last year because I applied on short notice, and didn't have enough time to make my items. My sister will be making some of her delicious jewelry to sell at my booth, she makes the prettiest stuff. I still have a ways to go before I have everything on my list checked off (I have more ideas in my head) but I need to first finish the things on that darn list. Deep breath, fingers crossed, and hope that I get it all done in time.

To Do

2008-08-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

One of my things is making lists. I make a list for everything, the big one I am working on is the to do list for the Bazaar in October. I have so many projects to get finish and started on I need help. I have two months to get everything on that list done,so to help me out my sister is coming over and hopefully we will be able to get some things on that list checked off :) I am starting work again on the 2ND so most of my weekends will be devoted to getting those projects finished.

Happy Birthday Tori!!

2008-08-22T18:42:00.000-07:00

I have to say hands down Tori Amos is my FAVORITE Artist/Performer. I have yet to see her sing live because she mainly tours overseas. Each and every song is amazing, her songs are as beautiful as she is. She is a survivor like myself. Happy Birthday Tori!!