Nosy little bugger

Harley was pretty much raised in my car and has gone to work with me (I am in outside sales) a good portion of her life.  She has such a itsy bitsy bladder, so it's much easier to be able to let her out during the day.  She won't have an accident in my car, BUT she will in her kennel which means she is obviously confused.

Anyways, I use to think it was really cute when she would paw at the water bottle in my cup holder over and over again. See, she is smart after all ... And I say that with a grain of salt considering she doesn't know how to do one trick, but she can tell me when she's thirsty and demand water right that minute.  Whenever she does this, and it happens often, I pour some water (from her designated water bottle) in a lid just for her!!  Talk about service.

Well, now she will paw at anything that is in the cup holder thinking I will share with her. It gets annoying, haha!! Then, if there isn't anything for her to paw at, she will consistently paw at the car shift knob! Ohhh yes, until I give her water.

This was from our most recent car ride when this little munchkin thinks it's okay to try and drink Momma's coffee by biting the lid off!!

It all starts with a little sniff sniff ...

Then, casually investigates a way in ....

The gnawing on the lid begins ....

"Mommy, don't get mad at me, it didn't spill ...."

"Fine, I give up and will go back to my bed ...."

(voluntarily)

Wishful Wednesday ....YouthJob

'I wish' .... I could go back and spend one day working at a job from my youth, and it would be from 

The Gymnastics Place!

I cannot tell you HOW many countless Friday and Saturday nights were spent working Footloose Friday, also known as "Parents Night Out," from 7-11pm during my teen years.  It was the greatest job because I got to spend it in a fun environment with other girls my age who I took gymnastics with.  Plus, I got to work with all the big girls, like Zipper and Liz, and when I was a teen I of course aspired to be like them :)  Footloose Friday consisted of free time throughout the gym, pizza and a movie, arts and crafts, and then more gymnastics time.  From the trampoline to the pit, I was in heaven watching my station and making sure kids were safe.  

My job progressed into working Saturday's and assisting with the birthday parties, and then turned into both Saturday and Sundays and even running the parties.  Then, summer camps were added to the mix.  It was a blast, and I loved every bit of my SEVEN years there.  I finally gave my notice when I went off to college, and believe me ... it was a sad day. 

It was every little gymnastics dream (or mine at least) to be a coach and work Footloose Friday's at the gym.  I just called my mom to help remind me how long I worked at TGP (The Gymnastics Place in Dallas), and I started working there when I was 12!!!  Of course she still had the pay stubs from almost 15 years ago, which I love!  And, my dad, the Financial Planner, used me working at such a young age as a teaching tool to have a strong work ethic and save my money early on as a kiddo.

What job will you never forget, good or bad, and tell us why!!

 ***NOTE:

Link up and add your link below.  Please, please, click on the title of your post on your blog and make sure it is the link to that specific post instead of your main blog url.  Then, go visit a few others who participated as well :)

Tab or no Tab

My last grocery shopping experience was interesting:

I rarely ever just try something new without already tasting it before (boring I know), and I am slightly disappointed with my purchase. 

I was going back and forth in the isle of which cokes to get, and Tab caught my eye. I wasn't sure what it was, but it did look similar to the energy drink I have had before that was in a pink can and looked similar. I even asked the stock boy if it was an energy drink and/or if he had it before .... And he wasn't much help.

So, I splurged and got a lovely 12-pack, and Gabe laughed as I brought it in the door. That was my first "uh-oh" moment!! Well, I tried it and only drank half the can because it tasted like a generic brand or like Diet Rite to me .....

Now, who wants to come over and drink the other 11 cans?!?!

Wishful Wed Topic ....Youth Job

This week was inspired after watching today's Oprah......

It was "Celebrities Go Back To Their First Jobs,"

and oh was it sooo funny.

Brooke Burke and Paula Dean were just hysterical!!!!!

This week's topic:

'I wish' .... I could go back and spend one day working at a job from my youth, and it would be ______!

What was one of the earliest jobs you worked when you were a teenage that you'll never forget for one reason or another!!

Most of you know the routine by now, but for my new readers .... Give yourself something fun to blog/post about on Wednesday to get you over the lovely hump day.  All you have to do is come back on Wednesday, attach the button, and link up with your web address with MckLinky.   It's that easy and SUPER FUN!

Dogs galore

Today was just gorgeous in Seattle, so after church we thought a little park/hike action would be a great way to spend part of the afternoon.  

We're dog-sitting our friends two pups while they are in Hawaii (so jealous), and let's just say our hands were full with four excited pups challenging the length of their leashes .... a whirlwind but super fun!

I only got a few stares as the crazy dog lady!

Let's just say these pups CRASHED and had a lazy rest of their Sunday :) Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!!!!

**For another fun dog post with me and SIX dogs
click here

Lots of reading to do

After a busy last couple of days, Hubby and I are spending our evening relaxing and reading about our new Kindle!!!  

I just got her all registered, and when I turn it on it says "Kelsey's Kindle!"  Gabe better keep his filthy paws off it, jk!  I have only gotten as far as reading the manual on the device, and the technology seems super fancy and easy to navigate.  Who would have thought electronic paper would have caught on like it did.  Who needs to go out on a Saturday night when you have a new toy to play with and good company

I can't wait to order my first book!!!

Do you have a Kindle 

and/or know any tricks for free books?!?

Earth Day

Since today was Earth Day, I am posting this to hold myself accountable to actually use one of the MANY reusable bags I have stacked on top of the refrigerator.  

They aren't doing me any favors sitting there, and I am going to attempt to find a "home" in my car so I can easily take them into the grocery store with me.  The problem is, my car is already full enough since my work office technically is my vehicle (to say the least).  Let's be honest, I don't have any other excuse and it's probably just laziness, so I will get to using em' :)

Do you use a reusable grocery bag and if so what's your strategy to actually USE it?!?!

Wishful Wed ....Glee

'I wish' .... I could be a GLEE character for an episode and it would definitely be Rachel!

Google Images

Ohhhhh Rachel, Rachel, Rachel!!

I normally don't like to pick the obvious favorite, and I am sure she will be a popular pick this week, but she is genuinely who I love to watch.

She is a perfectionist and convinced (on the show) that Glee is her ticket into stardom!  Rachel is the popular girl, dramatic, slightly uptight taking life quite seriously, and totally spunky.  And let's talk about her singing talent ...... totally INCREDIBLE and even more fun performer to watch, I think her character would be a hoot to play.

Also, she is back and forth with a hunk of a man, Finn!

Google Images

After watching the episode on Oprah where they highlighted Glee, I really liked Lea Michele that much more!  Her real life personality showed, and it was fun to see the cast performed live on Oprah.  It made me realize how amazing she and the rest of the singers are!!

What character would you be on Glee and why?

 ***NOTE:

Link up and add your link below.  Please, please, click on the title of your post on your blog and make sure it is the link to that specific post instead of your main blog url.  Then, go visit a few others who participated as well :)

Big day in the Smith house

I haven't shared my fear of cats with many people .....

but it has been out in the open this past month or so since I have been asked to CAT-SIT not once but 

TWICE!!!

I never grew up around cats.

I have a complete fear of cats (even kittens).

I assume cats will stare me down, pounce, and attack

Like this .....

My experience last month left me in a panic calling girlfriends to teach me how to call/find the cat that was completely MIA.  Then once I found the kitty, I was terrified hearing it cry under the bed and was scared to lift the dust ruffle because I thought it would kill me.  The kitty had a few tummy problems and was acting out, but it seems the the poor thang' was having separation anxiety from his mommy.  

This week, my girlfriend went to TX and convinced me Bella was less like a cat and more like a dog, so I told myself I could handle her.  WELL, tonight was a big night for me because Bella and I totally bonded.  I was less timid, and I think Bella caught that vibe.  Yay for not being so scared!!!!

AND, I cleaned out my first litter box in my entire life, haha!  

After Googling images for this lovely litter box above, 

I found a picture of this fancy box.

Gabe and I emailed our friends, Tyler and Channah, who LOVE cats and told them this was their early Christmas present from us.  We said we are going to buy several of these and fill them with cats at our place, and told them we will only let the cats out when they come over to visit so they will feel more comfortable.  

HAHAHAH!  We so funny :)

Wishful Wed Topic ....Glee

With GLEE being such a popular show these days

(AND my bro and sis-in-law's favorite show on TV) ....

This week's topic:

'I wish' .... I could be a GLEE character for an episode and it would be _____________!

Who would you want to be and why??

**Do't forget to email me any ideas for future topics :)  

Most of you know the routine by now, but for my new readers .... Give yourself something fun to blog/post about on Wednesday to get you over the lovely hump day.  All you have to do is come back on Wednesday, attach the button, and link up with your web address with MckLinky.   It's that easy and SUPER FUN!

Sunday Funday

What better way to spend a 

gorgeous sunny 70 degree day in Seattle???  

My Sunday "Funday" happened to consist of the perfect mix:

the hubby, baseball, AND lots of sun!!!

We had amazing seats to see our Mariners and Gabe's favorite, the Detroit Tigers.  (he was born right outside Detroit!)

I have mixed feelings rooting for both teams :)

Sitting in the sun all day left me sleepy and snoozing on the way home.  What a lame date I am, hah!

LASTLY,

I will leave you with FUNNY observations at the game ....

1.  Third Base Coach with awkward capri looking baseball pants.  Someone needs to help him out!

2.  A father AND son reading during the game!!!!!!!!  You would think with 4th row seats, they would watch the game!

3.  Precious little kid with cotton candy residue on his mouth the entire game!!!  Who would have thought to give him a good wipe :)

4.  As we were leaving, this kid caught my eye.  Hmmm, what an excellent idea to wear his little league jersey, baseball pants, cleats, and more to the game.  Why not, right! 

GREAT people watching .....

Inspiration

I will leave you with this ...

Talk about inspirational.  Should we all sign up for yoga STAT?!

One problem:

I am not a yoga "kinda girl "since it is too slow paced for me!  BUT, after seeing this photo I am really uber impressed.  I took Bikram Yoga for a month or so and found that a 90 minute classes with a room at 105 degrees was amazing.  

Have you tried Hot Yoga?

I will stick to Crossfit since I love the results and feeling after finishing a workout ... My thoughts are, as long as you have some kind of regimen that works for you, then stick with it!

***Photo Source Unknown - 

If this is you, let me know so you can give me all your secrets and I can give you credit!

NoReply@Blogger.com

I love each and every single one of the comments I get, and I would be lying if I didn't say they often make my day that much better.  I get super excited when I see the flashing red light on my Blackberry in hopes it is a notification for my blog.  BUT, more importantly, I like to be able to respond to the comment notification by clicking reply and have it sent automatically to your email address.  Often when I click reply, it says noreply@blogger.com instead of your email address. 

**So, will everyone check their settings since about 50% of the people who comment need to make one quick adjustment to make the process possible!?!  I will beg if I have to :)

Here is how to change it:

1.  Click on the Customize link in the upper right hand corner of your screen.

2.  Click on the Dashboard link in the upper right hand corner of your screen.

3.  Click Edit Profile, which in on the left hand side of the screen next to your profile picture.

4.  This will take you to the Edit User Profile screen.

5.  Look in the Privacy section.

6.  Click on the box that says, "Show my email address."

7.  In the Identity section, enter in an email address.

8.  Scroll down to the bottom of the screen and click on Save Profile.

This quick change to your settings will be really helpful when someone asks me a question through a comment or when I want to reply in general.  I never go back and reply on the actual post because it would be impossible to keep up/follow up.

That is all for now ..... thank you thank you!!!  I am sure your other blogging friends will appreciate it too.

Wishful Wed ....Charity

'I wish' .... I had never-ending funds to donate to a charity and it would be the Mt. Dora Children's Home!

This holds a very special place in my heart because my great-grandparents had such a big role in making this place possible.  

This was way before I was born, but my Pa Pa had a debilitating stroke in the early 70's, and Memaw thought it would be best to move from Oklahoma to Orlando for the winter to be in a warmer climate.  They had extra time on their hands since they were retired and got involved with the Christian Home and Bible School through their local Church of Christ church.  

My great grandparents had a strong desire to help these boys and girls who came from troubled pasts, and God opening the door to this venue as a way to impact the lives of others.  My understanding is that Mr. Dora Christan Homes was started to find homes through adoption and foster care for sweet kiddos.  Then, my Memaw felt like the girls needed a place that they could live and be taught how to be raised as Godly women and funded "The Lugar Cottage!" and it was named after them.  My great grandmother thought it was essential for these young children to know what a healthy home is like and thought an environment like this would change their outlook on life.  And indeed, they grew up there as children should .... nurtured and safe.  

Mt. Dora Christian Homes has three inviting and loving homes, and each home has houseparents who live with their family and most often 8-10 additional children.  The staff is dedicated to promote their individual talents and provide the parental love and attention these children crave.  Also, the program maintains a network with Christian families in the area,  which allows them to offer every child a "home" through adoption and/or foster care if there isn't a space in residential care.  This year they are building an additional fourth home, which is the first new home for children to be built on campus in twenty-three years !!!!

Pa Pa lived to 97, and Memaw lived to 102.  

They were inspirational Christian examples, 

and I would love to carry on with the Lugar name!! 

NOW, this is where I get to share the most exciting thing about it all.  Right after meeting Gabe, it came up in passing that his mom was an elementary school principle at a Christian school outside Orlando.  Then, I heard Gabe mention a month later that the school was MT. DORA SCHOOL, and I almost died.  Of all schools in the entire country, Gabe's mom was the principle of the school association with Mt. Dora Christian Home and Bible School, which was on the same property as our "Lugar Cottage!!!"  Not many words can express what was going through my head, but it was just a God thing! :)

I was able to go visit the home that has raised hundreds of kids thanks to my great grandparents all because of my mother-in-law making it possible while I was visiting the family in Orlando.  I cannot express the joy as I walked up to the home ..... it was an emotional experience that left me speechless and in tears.

I would love to be able to continue where my great grandparents left off and donate to this place!!

What charity or cause would you choose to donate to?

***NOTE:
Link up and add your link below.  Please, please, click on the title of your post on your blog and make sure it is the link to that specific post instead of your main blog url.  Then, go visit a few others who participated as well :)