[Gurlee]Girrl Friday (May Review)

The second half of May was busy! It seemed every weekend was packed full, and I loved every minute of it.  I guess that's what summer does to us, it makes us get out there and enjoy life!

I've missed quite a few "nail files" and will share just a couple of my faves:

Loved my neon nails, thought the "galaxy nail" came out pretty good and my first attempt at "marbling" which I thought wasn't half bad.  What's your favorite look?

Now to catch you up on some happenings:

• With the better weather, I finally broke my mountain bike out of hibernation and hit the trails a few times.  I can't tell you how much I love riding my bike.  It's a fantastic workout, and just being in the woods, makes all the hard work worth it.

• Took an impromptu trip to Firekeeper's Casino with Jenny Jenny and Ms. Debbie.  I am happy to report I actually came home with some money - which ALMOST didn't happen.  I'm telling you, I must use control when I'm at these places. 

• Kicked off the first concert of the season, with a bunch of the girls (BrookieBear, Jenny Jenny, Ms. Debbie, SamJam, SoccerSteph, ShelbyWelby and Aunt Lisa), when we went to see Tim McGraw / Brantley Gilbert / Love and Theft.  We had the best weather and an even better time.  Those boys can sure sing (oh, and they are pretty easy on the eyes too!).

• Colton's class held their end of the year concert.  The theme was "The Sea" and all of the songs were about fish or the ocean.  It was adorable.  They danced and they sang, and he even played the xylophone! 

• The second concert of the summer, was Fall Out Boy.  Yes, I am huge FOB fan, and in particular I love Patrick.  Awesome show.  Period.
  
  After the show, I was lucky enough to snap a pic with Patrick, and it made my night!  He was as sweet as I imagined he would be.  He made sure that every person that waited (and there were 100's of people) got a pic and/or autograph.  He was a doll.

• Memorial Day Weekend was spent up north and I caught my first fish of the year!  Obviously it wasn't a keeper, but it made me giddy just the same.

So friends, I've caught you up to date on this GurleeGirrls life! I promise I'll be better at posting, but life has just been to good to slow down!

Color Me Proud

A couple of months ago, a friend mentioned that she and some of her family member's were going to register for The Color Run.  If you haven't heard of it (taken from The Color Run):

ABOUT US

The Color Run™, also known as the Happiest 5k on the Planet, is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness, individuality, and giving back to the community.

Less about your 10-minute-mile and more about having the time of your life, The Color Run is a five-kilometer, un-timed race in which thousands of participants are doused from head to toe in different colors at each kilometer. The fun continues at the finish line with a gigantic “Color Festival,” using more colored powder to create happiness and lasting memories, not to mention millions of vivid color combinations. Trust us, this is the best post-5k party on the planet!

With only two rules, the idea is easy to follow:

1. Wear white at the starting line
2. Finish plastered in color

Now the single largest event series in the nation, The Color Run is exploding since our debut event in January of 2012 and will grow from over 50 events and 600,000 participants in 2012, to over 100 events and over a million participants in 2013. Click here to join the party.
Be Healthy. Be Happy. Be You.

Healthiness

While The Color Run event is all about fun and positive energy, the 5k also focuses on promoting healthy living. Over 60% of Color Runners are first-time 5k runners and the event is making headway on the growing national focus of improving health and wellness.

In October, The Color Run event was featured on Nickelodeon’s Worldwide Day of Play, an initiative to motivate youth to get out and be active. The segment showed how kids celebrated around the country, featuring Nickelodeon stars and celebrities, including the First Lady. The Color Run event was a major highlight of the segment, and showed kids’ participation and thoughts on the 5k.
One child comments, “I play because it’s healthy and fun; especially when you’re running through color!”

Another remarked, “I’ve never run before, but I’m excited about The Color Run because we get to get color splashed on us and its so much fun.”

Happiness

“We call The Color Run the ‘Happiest 5K on the Planet’ because our events bring together friends and family in a unique, healthy, and fun environment,” said Travis Snyder, founder of The Color Run.
And after hundreds of thousands of participants have crossed the finish line – the name has stuck.
Want to add some happiness to your life? Click here to register.

Individuality

“Color Runners” vary in demographics and reasons for running. With no winners or official times, The Color Run caters to anyone – 2 year olds to 80 year olds, first time runners to professional athletes. Over 60% of Color Runners are first-time 5k runners and participate as a celebration and capstone of their healthy living accomplishments. Others participate to honor loved ones who have passed or are fighting diseases. More run for love, and The Color Run event has sparked approximately 10 marriage proposals and one wedding.
What are you running for? Tell us here.

So, whether you are a casual mall walker or an Olympic athlete, the 3 miles of The Color Run course will be the most memorable and colorful run of your life!

Giving Back

The Color Run also focuses on giving back, choosing a local charity for each city we visit. We raised donations for over 60 local and national charities in 2012. Interested in nominating your charity for the event in your community? Click here.

I decided why not?  I figured I'd walk most of the course with my friends and just enjoy being outside.  That was until GTuck challenged me to actually "run" it.  How could I turn down a challenge?  I agreed to give it a shot but had little faith in myself.  Running and I have NEVER been friends.  I actually can say I hated it.  Strongly.

Training began.  We downloaded the "Get Running" App and tackled it day by day.  Little by little, which means 1 minute to 4 minutes to 10 minutes, I tackled the App.  Running is hard.  Running is no fun.  But I did it.  I'd put my ear buds in and just ran.  I sure wasn't fast, but I tried to average a speed of 5.2 - 5.4 mph.  This seemed to be the sweet spot for me, and I realized I could actually run for longer periods of time.  All of my training was indoors on a treadmill, which is TOTALLY different than running outside, in the street, in the elements, but it was still preparing me.

So the day of the race arrived and we were excited and ready to go:

   
The temperature was a crisp 48 degrees.  I'd say perfect running weather.

Along with 15,000 other runners, we lined up and were released in waves.  We were part of wave 6.  Runners were to stick to the left, while walkers to the right.  We were in the middle.  Once the start was announced we walked pretty fast to break away from the swarms of people.  It was hard to actually start running as everyone was taking off at the same time.

We decided to start with a light jog and before I knew it we were already to the first color stop.  I thought "wow this is easy".  Then after the 2nd color stop, I was beginning to feel winded.  Part of the fun was walking through the color stops, and once they were done, we'd pick our pace back up.  I am happy to report that for all but the color stops and one hilly area, I was a runner!  I was actually passing other runners! Me, Miss I Hate Running So Much, was a runner.

It was hard.  I was totally rooting myself on and didn't want to look like a slacker, so I just kept going. 

Once we got close to the finish line, two members of our group were already there and cheered us on, which gave us that extra little boost to finish the race strong.  I was so happy to see that finish line.  I realize this was just a 5K, but to me it was an accomplishment.  A rather large one.

After our entire group finished, we headed to the party area to participate in the color celebration, which was amazing.  Surrounded by hundreds (or maybe thousands) of other runners, celebrating by throwing packets of colored powder in the air.  It was insane.  The colors turned into a grey cloud, and if we didn't have enough color on us, we sure did now.

I had color in every crevice.  All I could think about was getting home and showering. LOL

I had fun. I got dirty.  I was strong.  But most of all, I was proud.

Color Run - I'll see you next year.

[Gurlee]Girrl Friday

First let me say that spring has FINALLY sprung here around these parts.  We've been enjoying sun and temps near 80's this week.  This girly could not be happier. 

This week I tried 2 different manis:

You all may remember that Libby sent me a "caviar" nail kit as part of our swap.  I was excited to try it out.  I was in a rush when I did it, and it surprisingly was fairly easy.  These little balls go EVERYWHERE.  If you attempt this, pour over a BIG, DEEP bowl.  I used a small, shallow bowl and they bounced out.

The good news, MOST of the balls lasted a good 4 days or so.  I figured they fall off the next day, but they didn't.  I call it a success.

My next one for the week was another quicky:

Basically a neutral nail and my take on some chevron.  It wasn't my best work, but it will get me to the weekend!

I think these polishes have so much potential - I just need to learn how to use them.  I don't have a steady hand at all.  And blobs fall everywhere!  Any tips or tricks when using these to draw STRAIGHT lines? 

Now on to some randomness:

• I did break down and ordered Ashley her North Face jacket.  The deal is we are giving it to her on "credit", which she will be working off for the next 6 weeks by doing numerous chores around the house.  Part of it is doing them without being nagged and without complaint.  One week down, 5 more to go!
• I haven't had a baby in the house for about 7 years now, so when I had to go pick up a few outfits for my cousin's new son, I had a hard time remembering exactly what size to buy for him.  I know my kids' sizes never corresponded to their ages.  So without having met this little man (who was born in February), I was clueless.  Hopefully he's a big bugger, because I ended up buying 6M and larger for him. 
• I bought myself a new iPhone case today at 5 Below.  Yes, now my phone looks like it belongs to a 10 year old.  So what does every 10 year old do?  Takes selfies of course.

• If you asked Ashley the one thing she has wanted for ages - her answer would be a cell phone.  Well her dreams might be coming true.  My mom had bought herself some sort of Trac phone with pre-loaded minutes on it.  She hasn't been pleased with it (it drops calls, is hard to hear on, etc.), and has offered it up to me for Ash, with the idea I would have to pay for the minutes when they are required.  I'm thinking she has a CHANCE that I will cave and let her get it.  That would mean MORE CHORES for her.  Her wants turning into work getting done at my house is sounding pretty darn good.  I'll keep you guys updated.
• I received my new purse this week and although I love the print, it's much smaller than I was expecting.  I'm the mom that carriers everything but the kitchen sink, and this purse is full, full, full.  It's a little short, fat purse.

• Wish me luck that all my hard work this week (i.e., no cheating) on my diet will pay off.  The scale hasn't budged much this week and I've been really working for it.  Come Sunday, I better see some results!
• And last but not least, I am BEYOND excited to see Iron Man 3 this weekend!!! I love me some RDJ.  You gonna go see it?

Hope your weekend is amazing!

[Gurlee]Girrl Friday

First off, it's Friday and that means it's time to see this weeks colors:

I started the week with this turquoise color and some sparkle.  This brand of polish was new to me and I thought it was pretty good.  it took several coats to get to the desired coverage, but overall, it was resilient to chips! 

The second color this week was:

Libby sent these as a part of my Spring Sweets Blog Swap, and I loved them!! The coral is so springy and uplifting and the white crackle is just enough pizazz. 

What are your favorite colors for spring? 

Now on to some randomness:

• Oh what a week it has been.  After being in the same exact spot at work for 15 years, they decided to move my department to the 3rd floor of our building.  I was NOT happy about this, however, I now have a much more private spot and windows!! I never thought I'd see the light of day at work, but now I get it all day!  So loving my new home. (excuse the boxes - I'm still in moving mode)

• Tonight is the Spring Fling at Colton's school.  He is excited to go to the "haunted house" which has been brought back after popular demand.  I hope I don't have to go in with him.  I actually took him through it a few years back and it scared the crap out of me.  Who knew that a elementary school could put together a haunted house that would give any Jaycees a run for their money.  NOT ME
• The weather around these parts is finally warming up.  Looks like within the next week we will be seeing 70 degrees!  Although 70's is not that awesome, it is compared to the shit-ass weather we've been having.  I'm sick of the cold and REALLY sick of the rain.

• With the nice weather, it's getting me excited for this upcoming summer.  I have visions full of mountain biking, camping and hiking.  I also have several fun concerts planned so this will not be a dull summer for sure.
• I ordered a new Coach purse today.  I bought one a few months back and it just isn't big enough for me.  Since I never zip it up, I even lost my make-up bag (and that was a NIGHTMARE).  So I found a pretty pretty one and can't wait for it to arrive.

• Looking forward to seeing all my bowling buddies tomorrow.  Feels like it's been forever since our last!  Momma is looking forward to some hard cider......

With that - I hope you all have a safe and happy weekend!!

Spring Sweets Blog Swap Reveal

I was excited to participate in the Spring Sweets Blog Swap again this year.  Casey assigned swap partners, and I began stalking Libby's blog.  This lucky newlywed is living in southern Florida (so jealous!) and blogs about her life and her amazing family. 

After a few emails back and forth, I got my package assembled and shipped out to sunny Florida!  I, in return, received my package from Libby.  To say she was generous would be an understatement.  Libby picked items out that were absolutely perfect for me.  I was overwhelmed.  It was better than Christmas morning!!!

Check it out for yourself.



So many things to unwrap!!



Postcards from Florida hot spots!!



She used the postcards as my letter (what a AWESOME idea)!



EOS Lip Balm & Hand Lotion

 

LOOT!!!!!



The girl obviously knew my love of nail accessories!! Holy cow I was in HEAVEN.



She even got a toy for my Boo and paper for Ashley!! She was beyond thoughtful!



Pink Ribbons (very dear to me) and DARK Chocolate!!!!!



And my FAVORITE item ELVIS BINGO!!!! Family bingo night here we come!

I cannot find the words to express my appreciation to Libby.  I've never felt that my blog expressed the person I truly am, but honestly every item I unwrapped was an OMG moment because it felt like she knew me intimately, although we've never met.  This little 'ol blog has given me the opportunity to interact with some amazing people, and Libby is for sure one of them!

Mom I Want.....

The day I’ve been waiting for has finally arrived.  I’ve been anticipating it, even slightly looking forward to it.  I started to think the day would never come.   But it did, today.

Ashley:  Mom, when you have time this week can we go shopping?

Me :  For what?

Ashley:  Well you know the brand North Face? 

Me:  Um, yeah, why?

Ashley:  I want a pink, fuzzy North Face jacket.  One with a hood.  I want to pick it out.  I don’t want you going and buying me one.  I want to see it first to make sure it’s the right one. 

Me:  Well find a picture of it and show me.

Ashley:  Ok, but mom, I don’t want you getting me a different color one, I only want pink.  My friend so-and-so has it in purple, and my other friend has it in blue.

Ashley isn’t your typical “pre-teen” girl.  She doesn’t have a 100 BFFs, doesn’t go ga-ga over boys, and has never cared about any of the clothes she wears.  Don’t get me wrong, she likes fashion, but has never been hung up if her “skinny” jeans came from Target or Macys. 

I remember my sister asking me “doesn’t Ashley wear Aero clothes?”, and my reply was “huh? no, she’s never mentioned it”.   My sister then informed that all the “cool” kids were wearing Aero (this was in 4^th grade).  When I mentioned it to Ash, she was just like “yeah, I guess you can buy me some shirts from there”.  She didn’t care. Next came the Holister trend.  Never once did she ask for that either.   She’s never asked for any brand until today.

I remember being her age, wearing  designer jeans and name brand tennis shoes.  I also remember begging my mom to buy me a pair of “Madonna” boots that were well over $100 (in the 80’s), and they were definitely too old for me, but my parents bought them for me, because I wanted them.  I also remember only wearing those boots 1 time.  One freaking time.

I told Ash to send me a link to the pretty, pink, fuzzy hoodie she wants.

 

And yes, she is a beauty (and now I want one), but it also comes with a not-so-beautiful price tag of $140!

Luckily, although my kids are spoiled, they are not demanding.  They do understand that they do not get gifts other than on special days.  Once I told her that $140 for a coat is a little pricey for us, she said, “Well maybe I can get it for my birthday?  I want it for 7^th grade.”   I told her I’d think about it and look for one for her.  I’m sure by September, she’ll have changed her mind, or at least decided on a different style.  Until then, I have a few months to sock some money away, so she can have her awesome, pink, fuzzy hoodie.

My first reaction was to jump online and order it for her today, since I’m so excited that she finally wants something.   But the “smart” Heather said, ummm $140 is a lot of money, and she needs to understand that just because she wants something ,she certainly doesn’t need it, at least today as we sit upon the start of Spring/Summer.  What do you think, is a $140 hoodie too much to spend on a kids coat?  Should she have to “work” for it?  Should it be a present?   Or am I just crazy cheap living in my own la-la land, while other kids are sporting their coats like it’s nothing (which they do, and I see)?

Spring Break 2013

Saturday, March 30th, was the kick-off of our spring break this year.  We celebrated my dad's and niece's birthday with lunch at Outback Steakhouse and ice cream and cake (baked by yours truly) at my parent's house.

I love the whole 1980's feel of the cake due to the sugar decorations.  It wasn't my best work, but it was a great tasting cake.  It was pink lemonade cake, pink lemonade frosting between layers and sparkly hot pink vanilla frosting on the outside.  I couldn't resist a piece myself.

After the party, it was time for bowling.  Bowling is about winding down for this session and it's been fun bowling with KevBoy and Soccer Steph.  They are just the cutest and keep me entertained.  I have also discovered a love of Angry Orchard Hard Cider.  They go down way to easy - and at 220 calories - that is not a good thing.  Why does everything awesome have calories????  After bowling we enjoyed some $3.00 Bud Light Limearitas.  Love that salty/sour combo.

Easter morning was upon us and the kid's got personalized tote baskets this year.  Ashley got a new iPod Touch to replace her broken one, as well as candy, a camping journal and a fishing pole.

Colton got The Amazing Spiderman for Xbox 360, Luigi's Mansion for his 3D DS, a Star Wars game for his Wii, candy. a camping journal and a fishing pole.

After gift opening, we hit the road for our Spring Break trip to Pigeon Forge, TN.  We camped overnight in Mount Vernon, KY, before arriving in Pigeon Forge on Monday.

We stayed at the KOA on Veteran's Boulevard, which is centrally located to many of the local attractions.  The kids were in love with the basketball court and playground, which was just across the road from our lot. It was only in the 50's most of the week, but it was a good change from the freezing weather we were used to at home.  Living in a RV for the week was an adventure, but after the camper was "fixed" and momma got her heat back, life was good.

We were in walking distance to the Old Mill and took advantage of the walking track daily.  We had our first supper there and it was so good!  I had Corn Chowder, Corn Fritters, Chicken and Dumplings and Blackberry Cobbler.  Holy cow it was good!

The highlight of the trip was a visit to Parrot Mountain.

As you can see the venue is very hands-on.  We were able to feed the parrots birdseed (mixed with cat chow??), and nectar to the Australian Lorikeets.  I was so surprised how "people loving" the Lorikeets were.  It took my 5 minutes to get all of them off of me.  They would fly from person to person and land anywhere they could on you, most of the time your head! The kids though this was hilarious, I was in fear of being peed on the whole time.  It was fun and a nightmare at the same time.

I didn't take many pictures of the rest of the trip, which included a day at the NASCAR Go-Kart and Amusement Park and numerous arcades.  After all, the kids were in charge.

I'm looking forward to some more camping trips very soon!