Thursday, September 6, 2012

Throwback Thursday

Hello crazy monkeys.  It is time again for Throwback Thursday.  It has been a while since we have been able to do one of these, so I am pretty excited.  Just a reminder, this is where I will post a picture from the past, and try my best to tell you when, where and why it was taken.

Without further ado...


This is a photo from September, 2010.  This would be me and some of the most amazing women I know.  I love them all.  In front is me and bestie monkey, behind us is Heather on the left and Linda next to her.  We were all hanging out having a good time, and I always have to take the opportunity to take pictures... if I can. 

Do you have a favorite throwback moment?

Happy Thursday Monkey Manics!

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Tuesday Musings

Seeing as yesterday was Monday and a holiday here in the good ol' U.S. of A., we didn't get to do our Monday Musings yesterday, so today will be Tuesday Musings.

I first want to say that I hope everyone had a great weekend, and for those that were able to celebrate, I hope you had an awesome Labor Day.

Now... Musing time...

- I am stressed.  No... beyond stressed.  I need a real vacation so that I may just unwind for a while.  I know this is true because I am losing mass amounts of hair.  It's a wonder that I am not bald yet.

- This week our state fair starts.  The bad news is, a lot of my family works at the fair, so I lose a lot of them for 10 days during this time.  The good news is, the monkeys absolutely LOVE the fair, so we have a very fun weekend to look forward to this week.

- The monkeys have started school.  I love when the kids are in school.  Them... not so much.  I love to watch their little brains hard at work.

- I love reading, but lately, the books that I have been reading have not been helping with my moods.  I need to read some positive, upbeat books, I think.

- Why is daycare such a hassle?!  I will admit, I cannot wait until both monkeys are old enough to not need it. However, having to worry about daycare for only one monkey is a little less stressful.

- On a happier note, I have decided that it is time to start searching for a new job.  Hopefully one that will allow for me to be home when the kids are.  Why is this happier, you ask?!  Because I believe it will eventually mean less stress on me.

- The movie We Bought A Zoo is now one of my top 5 favorites.  I absolutely love it.  I just need to remember to keep a box of tissues close by every time that I watch it.

That's all I got for this week.  Sorry it wasn't more exciting for you all.

What is your musing for the day?

Happy Tuesday Monkey Manics!

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Day 30: A Photo and 5 Good Things That Happened During This Challenge

First let me start off by saying that I am sorry for the lack of posts this week... It has been a super crazy one.  But more to come on that tomorrow.

Today is the last day of the challenge... and can I just say WOO HOO?!?!

Today I am supposed to post a picture and tell you 5 good things that happened during this challenge.  I will be honest and say that I am supposed to post of pic of myself... today.  How I look at this very moment.  I will also be honest and tell you that it is not going to happen.  Why?!  Because I am ill.  I have HUGE circles under my eyes, and I look like death today.  No joke.  So, we will repost a pic, that I would look exactly like, had I been feeling well today.


Now, I know you have all seen it before, and probably even during this challenge (I am unsure as I am too lazy to look back through them all at the moment), but I still look like this.  It's true.

Onto the next part.  5 good things that have happened.

1 - I have not had to think too much about what subject to post about for the last 30 posts.

2 - The kids have started back to school.

3 - I have almost finished reading the Harry Potter series for the bajillionth time.

4 - I have had some dealings with men that has reminded me again that I am okay with being alone.  (Yes, this is a good thing)

5 - The weather has been awesome here.

There you have it.  I hope you all enjoyed the challenge as much as I did.  However, I am also very happy to be done with it.

Are you excited we're done?

Happy Hump Day Monkey Manics!

Friday, August 24, 2012

Day 29: Three Confessions

What a subject for a Friday, huh?  I get to make three confessions to you all.  Hmmm... Now I just have to figure out what ones I want to lay on ya.

Photo found here

I have actually thought about this post a lot this week, and am still stumped as to what I want to confess to you all.  That, my monkey friends, is pretty sad.  So, I will attempt to make this an interesting post, and if it's not... oh well, I am sure you will all still love me in the end.  Ha.

First confession:  I have actually cried myself to sleep.  And recently.  I think that being overwhelmed as a working single mom is finally starting to get to me.  Having to do things all on my own in regards to the monkeys is wearing on me.  Don't get me wrong... I love my monkeys and will do anything I need to do to make sure they are taken care of and have all they need, but sometimes I just cry about it.

Second confession:  I have a sick addiction to caffeine.  I am not joking.  The good news is that I know that I have a problem.  However, I don't see this addiction ceasing any time soon.

Third confession:  I allow my ex to walk all over me.  Not willingly, might I add?!  This will be explained in an upcoming blog post, but for now, it is a confession.

There you have it.  Not too exciting, in my opinion, but 3 confessions nonetheless.

Do you have a confession to make?

Happy Friday and have a great weekend all you crazy Monkey Manics!

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Day 28: What Stresses Me Out

Photo found here

Stress... one thing that I dislike very much.  I am not great with handling stressful situations... at all.

So, this is not an easy post for me.  I am not a fan of talking about the things that stress me out, and don't like to dwell on them much.  But, for this purpose, we will dive in a little.

Here is a small list of things that have been known to stress this mommy monkey out...

- My ex... 'nuff said

- My job.  Not every day, but a lot of days.

- Car problems.  I know nothing about cars, other than how to drive them, so when something goes wrong... I stress.

- Money problems.  When this comes up, I stress, and sometimes to the point that I end up making myself sick.  This... I am working on.

- When my kids don't listen.  'Nuff said.

- Negative people.  I am an optimist.  I do not like those that push their negativity on others, or are just so negative that being around them brings others down.  Gah!

That's all I have for now.  I'm sure I could add more, but I am not running on a full tank today, and can't think too well.  Ha.

What is your main stress trigger?

Happy Thursday Monkey Manics!

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Day 27: Photo of my city and what's great about it

A photo of my city...

Photo found here

For those of you that don't know, I live in Salt Lake City, Utah.  Well... technically, in a small town just outside of S.L.C., but really, there's no need for technicalities at this point.  Ha.

This is a photo of the skyline of good ol' Salt Lake, with the beautiful scenery around it that I get to enjoy on a daily basis.  I will admit... I love, love, LOVE our mountains and our scenery here.  However... I hate, hate, HATE the snow.

Most people have heard that Salt Lake/Utah is known for the greatest snow on earth.  We are one of the biggest states for skiing.

We held the winter Olympics here in 2002, one of the craziest, yet exciting, winters we have had.

I believe this is one of the few states that you can be here a week and witness every season during your stay.  And that is no joke.

I love the summers here.  There is so much recreation and beauty to experience, that you may never truly get bored.

This is where I was born and raised.  I love it... most of the time.  Not a fan of the bitter winters, but for the most part, Salt Lake City is awesome.

Want to know more?!  Just ask.

What is one great thing about your city?

Happy Hump Day Monkey Manics!

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Day 26: My Dream Wedding

Today's challenge is quite the interesting one.  My dream wedding...... hmmm....

You see, I am not like the type of girl that grew up planning out my dream wedding or my family or any of that.  I did not pick names for my kids and give them to my dolls.  I did not wear a sheet pretending that it was a wedding dress.

Photo found here

You see, my perfect wedding could be anything, depending on the man I marry.  I have thought of a few different options that I would love, say, a beach wedding, a big to-do wedding, a simple ceremony in Vegas performed by Elvis.  It all sounds great.

Not having a man in my life right now and being no where close to marriage, makes it a little difficult for me to say which wedding I would most love to have.

The one thing I can say that would, I suppose, classify as my dream wedding... All of my family and my closest friends will be there to celebrate with me.  There will be no "line" for others to walk through and shake hands.  It will be a time to play, celebrate and have fun and that is exactly what we will do.

So... if it ever happens, I invite all of you to celebrate with me as well.

Please, tell me... what is one thing that would make/did make your wedding perfect?!

Happy Tuesday Monkey Manics!

Monday, August 20, 2012

Day 25: Something I Am Looking Forward To

Day 25, and this subject is not an easy one for me... especially on a Monday.  I could definitely go on about all the things I am not looking forward to.  That... I would have no problem with, what so ever.

What I am looking forward to is a whole different story.

Photo found here

Let's see....

I am looking forward to going swimming this weekend with the monkeys, some family and (hopefully) some great friends at a wave pool that I haven't been to since I was the monkeys ages.

I am looking forward to seeing where new business ventures get me and the monkeys in the near future.

I am looking forward to having a great week.

I am looking forward to the monkeys starting a new school year next week, I love new adventures, and love watching my kids have them as well.

I am looking forward to getting Monday over with.  Ha.

I am looking forward to the future... seeing what amazing people my monkeys grow up to be (and no... this is not me wishing away the time... trust me).

I am looking forward to paying off my car soon.  Always love having one less bill.

I am looking forward to fall... but not winter.

I am looking forward... in general!  New experiences, new friends and new everything.  No looking back for this mommy monkey!

What is one thing you are looking forward to?

Happy Monday Monkey Manics!

Friday, August 17, 2012

Day 24: Something I've Learned

Well, we have made it to yet another Friday, and we all know how this mommy monkey feels about Fridays.  It is time to celebrate this weekend.  Sister monkey is finally registered for Junior High (eeek) and now all we need are a couple new clothing items and some school supplies.

But, enough about that.  On to todays challenge.

Photo found here

Something I have learned, huh?!  Well, to be honest, this list could go on for days.  Just like the many others.  I have learned so much.

The one thing that I will share with all of you today, however, is a little different.

If there is one thing in my life that I have learned that I will carry with myself for the rest of my life, it is this...

Never stop learning!

We will never know it all.  But each experience we have... is a learning experience.  We can teach ourselves much more than anyone else can teach us.  By learning from everything we see and everything we do.  This is a tool that will get us a lot farther along in life than many other things... At least, I believe this.

What is one thing you have learned?

Happy Friday and have a great weekend Monkey Manics!

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Day 23: Movies I Quote The Most

Well, today's challenge is really a very easy one for me.  Especially as there is really only one movie that I quote quite consistently.

I do like to quote things that I see or hear.  My 2 favorite comedians... why yes... I can be heard quoting bits and pieces from them all the time.  But when it comes to movies, I can only think of one...

Photo found here

Yes, this is my all time favorite Christmas movie, but it is also one that I can watch year round.  I love, love, LOVE this movie.

Bestie monkey and I like to post quotes from this movie on each others FB pages.  We are both Elf addicts. We quote it all winter long, and sometimes in the summer.

All I can say is... when you find a movie this awesome, you must quote it often.

What movie do you quote the most?

Happy Thursday Monkey Manics!

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Day 22: What I Want My Future To Be Like

Hey Monkey Manics!  It is a nice (mostly) sunny day today and I am feeling good.  Yes, I am a happy girl today.  Sister monkey is registering for Junior High today and she is soooo nervous.  It doesn't matter what I say to her, her nerves do not seem to calm down.  I, however, am excited for her to start this new chapter of her life.  I am not excited she is old enough to do so, though.

Anyway, on to today's challenge.  What do I want my future to be like?!

Photo found here

I could go with the standard answers and say that I want to be rich.  Live in a big house.  Drive a fancy car or 2.  Pay for everything with cash.  And, as we all know, the list goes on and on.  Trust me, I would be lying if I said I didn't want all of that.

I am one who knows, however, that my future depends on my now.  I have to make the decisions necessary to get the future I want.  While my focus is not (at the moment) on big houses and fancy cars, I do keep those in mind.

Right now my focus is in many other areas.

My monkeys:  I want them to grow up very smart and to be stand up members of society.  I focus so much on them.  I want them to have an amazing future.  Which in turn, will make mine amazing.

My family:  I do focus on my family.  Why?! Because they are a major part of my present and I want them to be a major part of my future.  I love them.

My friends:  I could focus on getting rich and buying fancy things, but where would I leave my friends in all of that.  I focus on my relationships with them, and keeping those relationships strong, so that we can be in each others lives always.

My job:  Like most people, I am not a fan of having a job.  I do, however, put a lot into my job.  I know that this is a very important part of me and the monkeys lives and it could be a big part of our future.  I do not half ass.

These are my 4 main focus' as of lately, and probably will continue to be so for quite a while.  In the end, though, I just want to be happy.  I want all my loved ones to be happy.  Whatever that entails, I am good with it.

What is something you want for your future?

Happy Hump Day Monkey Manics!

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Day 21: Something I Am Proud Of

Winding down on this 30 day challenge, my friends, and I am actually quite happy about it.  I will admit though, I have had some fun with this.

Today I will tell you something (or things) that I am proud of.  I have to say, during the course of my life, I could choose so very many things to be proud of.  There have been a lot of things that I have accomplished, that people I know have accomplished, that the monkeys have accomplished.  There are things that have been done, said and ignored that I could choose to tell you about today.

However, above any of those other things, there is only one thing I can think of that truly makes me beam with pride.  That is the highlight of my life.  Have you guessed what it is?!

Here... I'll show you...


In case you hadn't guessed correctly... it is... and always will be... my monkeys.

They are both so smart.  They are both amazing kids.  They have both been through quite a bit in their little lives and yet, they are still 2 of the strongest people I know.  They love with their whole hearts.  They are good friends.  They make me smile every day.

I could go on for days about these crazy monkeys of mine, but I am pretty sure you get the idea.

What are you most proud of?

Happy Tuesday Monkey Manics!

Monday, August 13, 2012

Day 20: Something I Wonder "What If" About

I am just going to throw this out there before I completely dive into telling you all of my "what if's"... I do not like to think "what if".  I do not like it for the simple fact that I love my life, even with all of it's ups and downs, I love it.  If I think "what if" about any aspect of it, then I would not have the life I have nor would I be the person that I am today.  And personally, I think I am pretty awesome... so I like where my life has taken me.

Photo found here
Regardless of the statement above, we all do it.  I don't like to do it, but yes, I have found myself in the situation.

I have found myself saying things such as "what if I had gone straight to college after high school?". "What if I had never met my ex husband, who I do not like very much?" "What if I had a ton of money?"

There are a lot of things in life we could attach those little 2 words to.  A LOT!

"What if I hadn't ever learned to ride a bike?"

"What if my parents had raised me differently, not bad, just different?"

"What if I had chosen a different career path?"

"What if I had moved out of state at the age of 20, like I wanted to?"

"What if, what if, what if?"

I could go on for days, as I am sure you all could too, but really, what would be the point in that?!

Life should not be full of regrets.  There are so many lessons to be learned, and I truly think that we are all where we are meant to be.  Regardless of how we got to this point, regardless of whether we are happy with it at this moment or not.

Do you have any "what if's"??

Happy Monday Monkey Manics!

Friday, August 10, 2012

Day 19: What I Wish For At 11:11

So apparently (and I only found this out after a little research on the good ol' world wide web) you are supposed to make a wish at 11:11, and supposedly if you believe in it enough, it will come true.

Now, today's challenge is for me to tell you what I wish for at 11:11.  Obviously, from the statement above you can tell that I don't wish for anything knowing it is exactly that time.

Photo found here

Let me explain a little more in depth.

I am very sure that I have made wishes at 11:11 before, just not in the sense of saying "hey, look at the time, let's make a wish".

It is more like the fact that at 11:11 pm, I am laying in bed (not knowing the time, but knowing for sure that it is late) and wishing for sleep.  Or for my mind to stop racing.  Or to be able to sleep in the next morning.  Or... well... you get the idea.

I can almost guarantee that I have also made wishes at 11:11 am too.  Once again, not aware of the time.  You know... wishes like... the work day to go quicker.  Or that lunch time would hurry up and get here.  Or for a nap.  Those kind of wishes.

So the question is... now that I know about this whole making a wish at 11:11 thing, am I going to start doing it regularly?!  The answer to this is super easy.  No more than I do now, and I will go one further and say that it will still probably be without even knowing the damn time.  I am so not a clock watcher and I refuse to become so just so that I can make a wish at the proper time.

For all of you that do... no offence.  I'm just saying.

Do you make wishes at 11:11?

Happy Friday and have a fabulous weekend Monkey Manics!

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Day 18: Something I Miss

Oh boy... another post that really makes me think.  Have I mentioned that I am not a big fan of being a deep thinker?!  I'm really not.  It makes my head hurt... and that is not a joke.

I cannot come up with just one thing that I miss, even without thinking hard about it.  So now this mommy monkey gets to rant it up to all you faithful, amazing friends that we have.

Photo found here

Well, we might as well get started.

* I miss being young and careless.  Not careless in a bad way, just not having a care in the world.  Not having to worry about all this grown up stuff.  Having my biggest worry be what I am gonna do with my friends today.

* I miss my monkeys being babies.  I miss the phase when all they wanted to do was cuddle and love on their mommy.  I miss them being small enough for me to hold.

* I miss my long hair.  Granted it wasn't super long... but I still miss it.  I am really hoping my hair will grow fast.

* I miss being able to eat whatever I wanted and not gaining a pound... without going to the gym.  I am not big, by any means, but I don't want to get that way either.

* I miss clogging.  Yes, clogging.  No, not the toilet.  I used to clog (the dance style) and loved it a lot.  I would love to go back to those days.

* I miss sleeping.  Seriously.  It seems that the older I get, the less sleep I get.  My body, for some reason, thinks that it doesn't need sleep like it used to, and then I get to deal with being super sleepy and groggy all the next day.  Not cool.

* Although this is a semi new realization for me, I miss having a man in my life.  A hand to hold.  A hug or two.  Sweet, meaningful kisses.  Cuddling.  All that yummy, mushy couple stuff.

* I miss some of my dear friends that I don't see as often as I would like.  I really should try to make more time for them.  They are all amazing.

I think that will do it for today.  I really could go on and on about all the things I miss.  All the people I miss.  All the fun I used to have that I miss.  Well... you get the point.  Unfortunately, thinking about things we miss can sometimes make us frown... but I don't want to do that, so we will end it here.

What is something you miss?

Happy Thursday Monkey Manics!

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Day 17: Put My Ipod on Shuffle, First 10 Songs

Can I just say that I love, love, LOVE music?!  It really does keep me going on days where I may not be able to otherwise.  Music has always played a huge role in my life.  Always!

Can I also just say that I do not have an Ipod... that belongs to Sister Monkey.  I do have an MP3 player... that the monkeys use.  I actually listen to all of my music on my phone... and no, it is not an Iphone.

Photo found here

For today's challenge, I was going to try to attach a link to every song as I list it... but let's be real, I am too lazy, and there's probably not many people that would click each one anyway.

Please bear in mind, that I listen to a very wide array of music, I do not stick to just one genre.  If I hear a song I like, I will listen to it.  Please also bear in mind, my kids have downloaded some songs to my phone, I will let you know if one of these pops up in our list here.

Without anymore explanation... here we go:

* For The Gold by Royal Bliss

* Whatever It Takes by Lifehouse

* Miracle by Shinedown (who is by far my favorite band at the moment)

* Little Miss by Sugarland (I am pretty sure this song was written about me and bestie monkey)

* Only Girl by Rhianna

* Let It Rock by Kevin Rudolf (brother monkeys all time favorite song)

* I'll Follow You by Shinedown

* Same Old Thing by The Black Keys

* Follow Me by Uncle Kracker

* Animals by Nickelback (my all time favorite band)

There you have it... the first 10 songs to pop up on my shuffle.  Love them all.

What is your favorite song or band?

Happy Hump Day Monkey Manics!

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Day 16: 7 Things That Cross My Mind A Lot

Oh boy... another Monday gone, no post.  I apologize.  It all boils down to the manic life I am living right now which will be explained after the 30 day challenge.

Day 16.  This is not easy as I have so very many things that cross my mind on a regular basis, and depending on my mood or what is going on with my life at the time, the top 7 things can vary.  So... we will try to figure out the all time top 7... how about that?!

Photo found here

Off we go...

1 - I love my monkeys more than life itself.  They are my everything.  They are crazy, fun and sometimes lil shits, but that is totally okay with me.  My favorite way to say it is "I gave them life, they give me a reason to live".

2 - I love my family and friends.  It is because of their support and love that my kids and I have a lot of the fun that we have.  They too... are my everything.

3 - I watch kids, and I think that it would be fabulous if we, as adults, could be so easy going, and learn to not let things get to us the way we do.  This is something that I have decided I will master... one of these days.

4 - I do not like my ex.  Let me clarify... I (as in ME, you know MYSELF) do NOT like my ex.  My monkeys love their daddy, and I couldn't be more grateful for that.  But I... do NOT like him.  (I'm sure there will be a future post on this with more details)

5 - A good book and a bubble bath.  Yes, this thought crosses my mind every day.  I always have the good book part taken care of, just not so much the bubble bath part.

6 - Beer.  Another thought that crosses my mind quite often.  I could always go for a cold one...... ALWAYS!!!

7 - Work.  I'm pretty sure it is overrated, but there's not much I can do about it... until I find me a rich, sexy man, that is.  ;)

There you have it.  7 things that cross my mind a lot.  Probably wasn't as exciting as it could have been, but what can I say... my thoughts are pretty boring most of the time.

What is something that crosses your mind a lot?

Happy Tuesday Monkey Manics!

Friday, August 3, 2012

Day 15: Death Row Meal

Day 15 Monkey Manics!  Today I am supposed to decide what it is that I would choose if I had to pick my "death row meal".  This is not an easy one for me.  I really like love food.  So, I have decided to make this a picture post.  I will post pictures of all my favorites and you guys can tell me which you think I should choose... if (god forbid) I ever had to make this decision.

Here we go...

Photo found here

Photo found here

Photo found here

Photo found here

Photo found here

Yes, I could eat a whole meal of these... Try me!  Ha!

There it is... I suppose if I had to choose one last meal... it would be one of these.

Which one do you think I should pick?  What would your "death row meal" be?

Happy Friday Monkey Manics, have a safe and amazing weekend!

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Day 14: A Picture Of Myself Last Year and How I Have Changed

Yay... tomorrow we will have made it halfway through our challenge.  Are you guys as excited as I am.  I will be honest in saying that there have been times during this challenge that I really wanted to post something else... so once we're done here, there may be a lot of interesting, thought provoking and fun posts popping up around these parts.

Today is Day 14.  I am going to show you a picture of myself from last year and attempt to tell you how I have changed since then.  This could get interesting...  Gah!


This is me on a camping trip with some good friends last summer.  Trying to think of how I have changed in the last year isn't really easy.  But I think I have come up with some things.  So here it is...

* My hair is no longer that long.  It is just above my shoulders now, but I will admit... I miss the length.

* I am no longer in a relationship this year.  While it was hard at first, I am okay with it now.

* I have learned that attitude really is everything.  I knew this before, but didn't apply it as well as I should have.  Now that I do, I am very aware of how it changes my life.

* I am reading a lot more it seems.  I have always been a big reader, but I am going through books like you wouldn't believe these days.

* I am a year older.  Ha!

* I have varied in weight by plus/minus 5 lbs, but I still look the same (for the most part) as I did in this picture.

* I have not been camping like this... this year.  Sad... only one trip so far.

* I am hanging out with my bestie more, since as of this year she now lives closer.

* I have learned that how I deal with my kids has to sometimes change as rapidly as they're growing.  This is a tough one for me.

* I am freaking out over the fact that sister monkey is going into junior high, and is no longer an elementary student.

* I have experienced some things that have taught me that no matter what happens in life, we can always choose to allow it to bring us down or build us up.  Regardless of our circustances... we can still do anything we want to do if we really want it.  (More on this after the challenge)

* I am realizing that I do not want to work for "the man"... I want to be "the man".  Ha.

There it is.  This is all I can come up with.  I am sure there is more... like more wrinkles, maybe a few gray hairs... stuff like that.  But really, who wants to hear about that stuff.  Hee hee.

What is the biggest change you've noticed in yourself over the past year?

Happy Thursday Monkey Manics!

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Day 13: The TV Show I Have Become Addicted To

Happy Hump Day!!

We have reached Day 13 of our challenge.  I am going to let you in on the TV show I love the most.

For the record, I am not a TV or movie watcher.  Yes, I will watch a show or a movie with the kids, but I would much rather be doing other things.  I have never been a sit down and watch kind of girl.

My bestie actually got me hooked on a show, however.  This show is one that I could sit and watch marathons of (and I actually have).  I love it to pieces.  I have seen every episode, and will watch them again, and again, and again.

The monkeys?!  Not a big fan of my show, but I still watch it.  Heehee.

What is this amazing show, you ask?!

Here is a little snippet for you...


Yes, my friends, it is... Friends.  I seriously can't get enough of these 6 crazy, funny peeps.

That's it for me.  What is your favorite TV show?

Have a great day Monkey Manics!

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Day 12: Something I Don't Leave The House Without

Hello Monkey Manics.  We are back again.  There are some things going on with the monkeys lately that is making it very hard to post.  Rest assured, I am doing my best and hopefully all will be back to normal soon.

Today is day 12 of our challenge and I will be revealing to you the one thing I cannot leave the house without.  I think the first thing that popped into my mind was my purse, then my phone.  Then it dawned on me that I have left without both of those before, on purpose.  Not for long periods of time, mind you, but it has been done.  So I thought... is there really one thing I truly must have with me when I go?!  And then it came to me...

The one thing I cannot leave home without (well at least not without bitching about it the whole time if I do forget them) is.........


Yep, sunglasses.  My sunglasses.  They are my must have item at all times... even if I am not wearing them.  Am I weird for this?!  Probably, but I don't care.  I love them and will continue to always have at least one pair with me always.

Happy Tuesday Monkey Manics!!

Friday, July 27, 2012

Day 11: A Quote I Love

It is Friday, and I couldn't be happier about it.  I love me some weekend.  I hope that you are all excited as well and have loads of fun planned.

Today we are doing day 11.  Today's challenge was so very, very easy for me.

I first heard this quote about 10 years ago, and I have loved it ever since.  The words stay with me everywhere I go.  For those of you that were familiar with my last blog, you may recognize this quote as I had it permanently on my side bar.  That is how much I love it.


I have never tracked down who originally said the quote, but whoever it was knew what they were talking about.

There it is, a quote I love.

What is your favorite quote?

Have an amazing weekend Monkey Manics... Day 12 on Monday!

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Day 10: Something I Am Afraid Of

Today is day 10 and I am going to let you all in on my fears.  Today will be a picture post.  Not many words said, because I prefer to just get this over with.  Once posted, I hope I never have to see these pictures again.  Eeeeek!!!

Without further ado... Melissa's fears:

Photo found here

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Photo found here

Those are my top 5.  There are more, but seeing as I have really creeped myself out by posting these... I am not going to continue.  I think I need a rest after this.  Sigh.

What is your #1 fear?

Happy Thursday Monkey Manics!

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Day 9: A Favorite Picture

It's day 9, I am so happy that I have stuck with this challenge as well as I have.  Almost halfway through and then we can go back to our regular programming posting.

Today you get to see a favorite picture of mine.  This was such a hard choice to make.  Do I pick a favorite picture of me?  Do I pick a favorite picture of the monkeys?  One of all of us?  Or a favorite that has none of us in it?

When it comes to pictures of my monkeys, I have WAY too many favorites and I truly don't think I could pick just one.

When it comes to pictures of all of us together, I don't have many pictures at all, sadly.  I am, however, working with my brother to rectify this problem (watch for new family pics soon).

When it comes to pics with none of us in them, I also have way too many favorites.  Pictures of so many random things that I love.  Pictures of places that we have taken our adventures.

When it comes to pictures of me... well, I have a few that I would call favorites, but like most girls, I do not like pictures of myself.

So, I am going to share 2 pictures with you.  You may have seen them before, then again, you may not have, but these are 2 of my favorite pics.  They will fall into 2 of the categories above, and I am sure once you see them, you will be able to pinpoint the correct category with no problems.


You can see from this picture the very reason they are called my monkeys.  I love this picture of them.  It has always been a favorite of mine.  Such good looking monkeys, I do have!


This is a picture of myself (on the left, if you couldn't tell) and my childhood friend Katie.  I don't know what it is about this picture, but I wish I could make myself look like that in every picture taken of me.

There you have it.  You lucky butts got not just one favorite picture of mine today, but two.  I can't believe that I spoil you all the way I do.  Ha.  Must be cause I love you all so much.

Do you have a favorite picture?  What is it of?

Happy Hump Day Monkey Manics!

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Day 8: Turn On's and Turn Off's

Hello Monkey Manics.  I hope you are all well this fine Tuesday.  I am sitting at work, wishing I weren't.  As I mentioned yesterday, today is a state holiday here, and I kinda wish that my company would recognize it.  I guess when your headquarters is halfway across the world, they don't worry too much about it though.

Today is day 8.  Today you will dig a little deeper into this mommy monkey and find out what it is that gets me excited or makes me back away.  Hmmm... not sure how I feel about this post.  Oh well... here we go.

Photo found here

We will start with the turn off's, because as you all should know by now, I like to start with the bad.  

* A bad attitude.  I cannot stand negativity and people that I like to call "downers".  No, thank you!
* Someone smaller than myself.  I like to feel dainty in a relationship.  I like to be able to curl up into my man.
* Over-exaggerated egos.  I cannot stand a man that only wants to talk about himself... especially when he goes off about how amazing he really is isn't.
* No manners.  If you are going to take me out... hell, even if I am going to take you out... open the door for me, chew with your mouth closed, don't talk with food in your mouth, and for god's sake... please use a napkin when necessary.  I do NOT want to see you wipe your face on your sleeve.
* Being over bearing.  As in, do not kiss me if I just met you.  Do not ask for sex on a first date (in fact, don't ask for it at all, if it's meant to happen down the road, it'll happen... down the road).  Do not call me your girl, unless we have both established that I am.  Do not smother me.
* Possessiveness. You do not own me.  I am not some prize you have won.  If you treat me as such, you will never see me again.
*Dirty.  If you can't take a shower and put on something semi-decent to go out with me, then just stay home... by yourself.  It's called respect.

There are more, but I think that pretty much gets the point across. 

Photo found here

Now for the turn on's.

* Genuine smile.  I love when a man smiles at me and I can tell that it is genuine.  He is truly happy to see/be with me.
* Truly interested in getting to know me.  There is nothing better than hanging out with someone that truly is interested in getting to know you, and... might I add... this goes both ways.
* Tall.  I seem to be drawn to tall men.  I have dated shorter men, but I always end up more attracted to the tall ones.  Don't ask... even I can't explain it.  Maybe it has to do with the second turn off I listed above.
* Clean and smelling yummy.  People ask me what my favorite smell is, and I always answer the same... "a freshly showered man".  There is just something about it that makes my heart skip a beat.  Also, when a man wears the perfect cologne.  Oh my...
* Cuddling and hugs.  Not on a first date, mind you.  But I am a huge cuddler, and love hugs.  Yes, please!
* Beautiful eyes.  A man's eyes can totally drag you in.  Make you not want to leave.  I love when a handsome man has these amazing eyes.

Once again, I could go on.  But, I believe that is enough for today.  

In the comments, please share one of your turn off's and one turn on.

See you tomorrow Monkey Manics!

Monday, July 23, 2012

Day 7: What Makes Me Happy

Okay kids, last week got a little ugly, and unfortunately, I was unable to post twice.  Not cool.  But we're back.  Back and ready to go.

Remember, we are on the 30 day challenge still.  I am having a lot of fun with this, and I am also enjoying all the other bloggers posts that are doing it as well.

Day 7.  Today I am supposed to let you in on the things that make me happy.  The things that put a smile on my face.  The things that make me giggle.  Yup, those things.  So, here we go...


First things first... and, of course, the most obvious.  My monkeys make me happy.  They put a smile on my face every day just by being in my life.  That doesn't include all the extra smiles and all the giggles I get from them on a daily basis.  I would not be the person I am today if it weren't for these 2 beautiful faces.


My family makes me happy.  We are all so close and would do anything possible for one another.  I love them more than words can say and I know that they feel the same about me and my monkeys.


Although I am probably going to get hell for using this picture again, I am doing it anyway.  My friends make me happy.  Especially the true ones.  The ones that are there all the time, no matter what.  I love them all.


Fireworks make me happy.  Here in good ol' Utah, the whole month of July is a celebration.  Well, almost all of it.  You see, tomorrow is Utah's birthday so we have a state holiday, with... you guessed it... more fireworks.  I can't wait.


Anyone that knows me well, knows that I have an addiction... to Peanut M&M's.  They make me happy.  'Nuff said.


My boys, the Denver Broncos, make me happy.  I love football, and I love this team.  Amazing men on and off the field.  Keep rockin' boys!


And the last one... for today (because let's face it, my list could go on for days).  Sunsets make me happy.  I took this picture while out at the Great Salt Lake on a Harley ride with a friend.  It was absolutely beautiful.  I love sunsets and wish I could watch them every evening.  Maybe I should make it happen.  Hmmm...

That is the list of some of the top things that make me happy.  I have so many others, so we may have to continue this post another day.  I hope you all enjoyed.

What is something that makes you happy?  Please share in the comments.

Come back for Day 8 tomorrow... until then, keep being amazing you Monkey Manics!

Happy Monday all!

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Day 6: Pet Peeves

For more information on the 30 day challenge, please see this post.  You too could play along.

Today is day 6.  And today you get to learn about what drives me bat shit crazy... also known as my pet peeves.  So, I guess we shall get started.

Photo found here
There isn't really too much that I can complain about on a regular basis.  But just like every one else out there, I am human, and I do have those certain things that I will almost always complain about.  You know how it is... I hope.

Pet peeve #1:  Rude, inconsiderate people.  Now don't get me wrong, I know that we can all become this person once in a while.  I am talking more about the people that are like this constantly.  No consideration for others, always worried about themselves and only that, and complete disrespect 100% of the time.  These are the people that, if I can, I eliminate from my life.

Pet peeve #2:  The monkeys arguing.  Can't stand it.  I have gone into this before, so I won't make a big deal of it now, but it is one thing that can definitely get under my skin and make for a frustrated mommy monkey.

Pet peeve #3:  Drama.  No, I am not talking about "the arts".  I am talking about the people that create it and try to drag you into it.  I am talking about the people that post all of theirs everywhere for everyone to see.  I am talking about the people that cannot be happy without it.  I am talking about the people that I delete from my life... 'nuff said.

Pet peeve #4:  Insomnia.  Now, I only suffer from this from time to time, and I truly feel sorry for those that have a severe form of it (I couldn't imagine), but when I do, I can't stand it.  I am a sleeper.  I love to lay my head down, pass out, and dream.  When I can't, I wanna cry.

Pet peeve #5:  Lying.  Another one that the monkeys have learned I can't stand and will not tolerate.  I do not appreciate being lied to, and therefore will not lie to others.  What is the point anyway?!  I truly do not understand it.

Pet peeve #6:  Chewing with your mouth open.  I may sound stupid for adding this one, but I don't care.  It truly makes my skin crawl when people do it.  I have always been huge on teaching my monkeys not to do this, and now it is one of their pet peeves as well.  Manners, people, manners.

Photo found here
There you have it.  Now you know how to get under my skin if ever you feel the need.  Luckily, I made it through this post, and day 7 will be a happier day.

What is one of your pet peeves?  Please share.

Happy Thursday Monkey Manics!

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Day 5: 5 Places I Want to Visit

I'm sorry about the break we had yesterday.  Something came up, and unfortunately, I was not able to work, blog or do much else.  But today we resume our 30 day challenge.  For more info on this, please read this post.

Day 5.  Today I am to list 5 places I want to visit.  This is not easy.  How do I narrow down the bajillion places I want to visit to a teeny tiny list of 5.  Sigh.

I am going to list the 5 places I want to visit most... So, here we go.

Photo found here
Like every girl that grows up believing she is a princess, I want to go to Disney World.  I have never been.  This, of course, would be a family vacation.  I could never make this trip without the monkeys.  Someday...

Photo found here
 I also cannot wait to visit Hawaii.  In every picture I see, it looks absolutely beautiful.  I can definitely see myself having some major fun and relaxing quite a bit while I am there.  Yes, please!

Photo found here
As long as I can remember, I have wanted to take a month long trip to Italy.  How beautiful is that picture?!  It is most definitely on my bucket list, and I can't wait to cross it off.  Who knows... maybe once I get there, I will want to stay forever.

Photo found here
Of course... Paris falls on every girls "must visit" list.  An absolutely stunning place, I'm sure.  Another one that if I don't see before I die, I may not die happy.  Ya know?!

Photo found here
Last, but certainly not least... Australia.  I do not know why Australia appeals to me the way it does.  But it is definitely one of my must see's.  Stunning picture.

While this wasn't easy, it was pretty fun.  I have so many, many more I could put on here, but that will have to wait for another day.

Tomorrow we will be back with Day 6.  Don't miss it.

What is one place that you just have to see?!

Happy Hump Day Monkey Manics!

Monday, July 16, 2012

Day 4: My Parents

For more information on the 30 day challenge, please see this post.

It is day 4 of the 30 day challenge and today, you get to meet the people that brought me into this world.  These same 2 people have played a major influence on who I am today, and honestly, I feel like I owe them the world.


These are my parents.  Many moons ago, on their wedding day.  I love this picture of them.  They were so happy to be married, and the thing I love the most, is that they are still just as happy.  I can't remember ever seeing my parents argue.  Not once.  Which means they were either smart enough to not do it in front of us, or they have just never argued.  The best is when my mom is in the kitchen cleaning up and you hear my dad say "Dear, what do you need?"  and my moms reply?!  "A kiss, I need a kiss."

My parents have always been hard workers.  They had 6 kids, and both worked full time while we were growing up... in fact, they both still do.  My dad had 2 jobs most of my childhood.  They did this so that we never went without.  We didn't have the best of everything growing up, but we had a lot.  Even though we didn't have the super cute, expensive clothes, we had amazing family vacations.  I look back now, and think wow... my parents really knew how to raise a family.


This pic is a little blurry, but this is them 2 years ago at a family Easter party.  Each one of them holding one of their grandsons.  They are great grand parents and all the kids adore them.

I love my parents more than anything, and they love us all just as much.  I was blessed with people that knew what a family should be, and they cherish every bit of it, every day.

I hope I can do, with my kids, half of what they did with us.  I hope that my monkeys grow up and say the same things about me that I am lucky enough to be able to say about my parents.

We will have some more fun tomorrow with Day 5, so be sure to come back.

Happy Monday Monkey Manics!