Contest....

Well, I am running a contest on my photography blog that ends tonight at midnight.  I would love for you to check it out and vote on which picture you like the best.  =)  

I've very excited about the exposure that I've received from it.  As of yesterday I had almost 500 hits on my blog in almost a week.  Way more than I imagined!  I was hoping for 50-75 votes and I am above 200.  

So go to:  aglimpseofmistysportraits.blogspot.com and vote for your favorite!  If you are interested in joining the contest just follow the directions in the first post.  If you just want to vote and don't want to enter the contest then that is fine too!  =)

Thanks to those of you who already voted!  =)

Fears

I'm all of a sudden into making lists!  Well, here is my fears list.  I thought of Angie when I made this because she makes fun of some of my fears but these are all true fears of mine!  I have quite a few at the moment!!  I'd love to hear your fears...share a few when you leave a comment.  =)

Kaboodle

Well, my niece Britney turned me onto a new website called Kaboodle.  It is actually really cool.  You can make a wish list of things you want so that when you have a birthday, anniversary, or it is Christmas you can direct people to the website so that they know what you want.  Also, you can add it to your internet bar so that when you are looking through websites and you see something you like, you just click on the Add to my Kaboodle at the top of your bar and walla, that item is added.  It is a great way to organize the things that you see on the internet too.  

To the right of this post I have added the wish list that I have started.  Most of the items are pretty expensive but, it is great to wish, right??  =)

Check that off...

Well, here is my top 10 list of the places that I'd like to travel.  I need to hurry and do this because I will be checking off #9 on February 15th.  I'm very excited to go to Las Vegas.  I am going with Angie to WPPI, a photography convention.  It is 4 full days of photography.  I can't wait to learn more and improve my business.  I'm also excited to finally check off one of my 10 top travel destinations.  I wish I was going with Danny for the first time but we'll have to do that another time!  =)

My next one better be New York!  Who wants to go???  =)

My big potty boy...

I am so excited to report that we are no longer using pull-ups in the Brandow home.  That feels SO good.  =)  On accident Sunday night, last week, we put Chase to bed in his underwear.  He has had them on since without an accident.  So, I guess this would mean that we are officially done potty training and I don't have to buy pull-ups anymore!  Chase is so excited to not have pull-ups anymore.  He fought us every night to keep his underwear on.  If we had only given him a chance...he tried to tell us he was ready!  =)

Obsession...

Even though Christmas is over Chase just can't let go of watching the Polar Express.  He wants to watch it all the time.  He always asks, "Can I watch Polar Express and have popcorn?"  There is something about watching it and having popcorn.  He can watch any movie and he never asks for popcorn but every time he watches the Polar Express he always says, "Pause it Mommy, I need popcorn."  He is so funny.  So as I write this right now I am listening to the movie of the Polar Express playing and the crunch of popcorn.  What a great movie to be obsessed to.  =)

These are moments that I love!

I just love it when Isabella and Chase are loving toward each other.  They always play really good together  but they definitely have their moments, like any sister and brother would have!  I was looking for them on Saturday and I walked into Isabella's room and saw this.  How cute are they cuddled together and getting along while playing Mario on the DS.  They just looked so adorable so I had to capture this moment.  They are  both getting so big!  It makes me sad to think that when they get older we won't see as many of these moments.  But, for now I'll treasure them!  =)

Little man hair cut

Well, Chase was in desperate need of a hair cut and Dacia cut it last Friday!  He looks so stinkin cute!  You can actually see his face now that it isn't covered with hair!  =)  Thanks so much Dacia for such a cute hair cut!

100th day of school...

First of all, I can't believe that Isabella has been in school for 100 days.  This school year has just flown by!  It is crazy!!

For Isabella's 100th day of school she was supposed to dress up like a 100 year old woman.  That was not an easy task for me but her outfit turned out great!  I went to the $1 store to get her pink grandma glasses, which was her favorite part of her outfit.  Then I put her hair in a bun and put baby powder in it.  (Thanks Brenda for the idea!)  It was so adorable with her white hair.   Then I put the longest skirt we had on her and a sweater and walla Isabella became a 100 year old woman.  =)

Thanks to Brenda I was able to go into Isabella's classroom and help out.  They did things a little different this time.  They had a different activity in each classroom.  The activities were:

-100 day coloring page with 100 pictures

-100 day glasses

-100 day hat

-building with 100 things

-counting their 100 things they brought to school (Isabella brought buttons)

-then they weighed their 100 things against another set of 100 things.

It is way cool.  They also had a 101 year old man come to school that day.  They did a lot more after I left too like make a necklace out of 100 fruit loops.  They also brought home a snack that had 100 things in it.  It is just amazing all the time and effort that the K/1st team puts into days like this.  They are amazing!!

Isabella's 2009 Goal..

When I went into Isabella's classroom the other day they had made goals for 2009.  I couldn't wait to see what Isabella put.  As you can see her 2009 goal is to get better at hockey.  I about died laughing.  It would help for her to start playing hockey first!  =) 

Sport Day

One week ago, Isabella had sports day at school and of course she wanted to be a cheerleader.  Her best buddy, Olivia, came to school as a cheerleader too and they were even similar colors.  They were too cute!

Bass Pro Shop

We just recently got a Bass Pro Shop built by us a few months ago.  I've been wanting to go there but really haven't had the chance.  We finally made a trip there a couple weekends ago and it is amazing.  I have driven by it many times and have seen how ginormous it is but I really didn't realize how big it was.  When you are standing in front of it it just towers above you. 

Then you step inside and it is SO SO big.  Words and pictures can not describe how amazing this place is.  There is a huge tree that you walk through to get into the store and then there is two levels of craziness.  This place has anything outdoors that you can think of.  It also has an amazing waterfall at the back center of the store.  

My favorite part had to be the boat dock.  They have boats on display by putting them up to a boat dock so that you can walk right on the boats.  It was so neat.

If you live close by and haven't been to The Bass Pro Shop you have to go check it out and see how amazing this place is.  It is fun to check out even if you aren't shopping in there.  Our kid also loved it!

Happy Birthday to you...

Happy Birthday to you...Happy Birthday Dear Brenda....Happy Birthday to you!

(Brenda is going to be so happy that I have finally posted these pictures.  As usual, she forgot her camera when we went to the melting pot, so I took all the pictures.)

So, it has become our yearly tradition to go to the Melting Pot for Brenda's birthday.  This is our 2nd annual Melting Pot experience.  I'm so glad that she picks the Melting Pot because I love love love it.  It is a little pricey but it is a great treat once a year.  

I'm so glad that we experience Brenda and Jason's birthday with them.  They pick yummy places to go.  

Thanks for sharing your birthday with us! =)

Presidential Inauguration

Today is a day that will be in the United States history books.  I think that it is amazing that as a nation we are able to vote in a black President.  Even though Obama wouldn't have been my first choice in a President I am glad that we can finally look past someone's color.  I am also excited to witness a part of history.  I felt that instead of being negative because of our new President that I would try to think of the positive things.  

I hope that he can be as amazing as everyone thinks he is going to be.  He has a lot to live up to.

So weather you like Obama or not just remember that today is a day that will be written about in the history books and we were able to witness it.  That is pretty amazing!  =)

Jesus wants me for a Sunbeam...

So, our little man is now a Sunbeam.  The first Sunday in January was the official day.  He was so excited to go to the "big boy class".  But, when he realized that it wasn't preschool he was pretty bummed.  It has been a struggle having him in Primary but he has done better than I thought he would.  He definitely needs to learn how to sit still but since he has Laura, the Primary president, wrapped around her finger, he can get away with a lot more than he should.  =)  

What a big boy he is becoming.  It makes Mommy sad that he baby is growing up!

On Cloud 9...

When Sean called us the Saturday after New Years and asked if we wanted to see Kelsey on their way to Sacramento to fly out you can imagine our excitement.  It has been at least a year if not longer since we have seen Kelsey.  Isabella even asked me, "Mommy am I going to remember her?"  That broke my heart.  She went from crying when she saw her the last time we saw her, because she was so excited to not even remembering her.   (The last time we saw her had been a long time too.) I'm glad that we at least get to see her when Sean gets to see her. We hadn't seen Sean in a long time either.

Well, Isabella had a ton of fun seeing Kelsey.  She was definitely on Cloud 9 that day.

For me, Kelsey just seemed so grown up.  It is just amazing how much people change when you haven't seen them in a while.  She seemed to be a little girl last time and now she is definitely all teenager with makeup and all!  =)  She is also the same Kelsey with that same great sarcasm.  I love it.

We love Kelsenator and miss her tons!!  =)

New Years Eve...

This year we celebrated New Year's Even at home with the kidos and my Mom.  Danny and I actually went to Elephant Bar for dinner that night.  Just the two of us.  It was a nice and quiet dinner.  

Then we came back home and celebrated the New York New Year (9pm) with our kids.  We got blowers, streamers, hats, the kids instruments, and poppers for our celebration.  

When we started celebrating the kids were having a ton of fun.  Then we did the poppers.  Isabella didn't like them so much.  She ran out of the room and then started crying because she said she missed everything.  It was kinda funny.  As you can see above she looked so pathetic.  =)  I tried to tell her that you are supposed to be HAPPY on New Years but no such luck.

A Year in review..

What did you do in 2008 that you have never done before?

Bought a Mac...I have to tell you that I was honestly nervous but it is the best decision I have ever made!

Did you keep your New Year's Resolutions and will you make more for 2009?  

Well, lets just say that most of my last year resolutions are this years with a few added. 

Did anyone close to you give birth?

My friend Wendy Bates gave birth to a baby boy on December 23 at 12am.

Did anyone close to you die in 2008?

I think that the deal toll in my family in 2006 and 2007 made up for not having anyone this year.  There was one man that did pass away that I was saddened by and that was 

President Hinckley.  I wouldn't say that we were "close" but I really enjoyed listening to his inspiration as a prophet and I will miss that!  A friend of mine lost her baby boy.  Angel Michael was only 3 months old when he passed away.  I had the pleasure of taking pictures of him about a week before he passed away.  

What countries did you visit this year?

Mexico on a cruise

What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?

Weight Loss.

What date from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

July 28th, the day my baby girl started Kindergarten.  It was a bitter sweet.  I was so sad to see her grow up but she was so happy to go.  I didn't really realize how much I missed having her home until these past few weeks that sh

e has been home.  It has been pure joy!

What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Keep my photography business going in an economy that is struggling.  I was really worried but I did very well.  Also, that I potty trained my son.  Didn't think it would ever happen.

What was your biggest struggle in 2008?

Missing my Daddy and Sister.  You'd think that time would heal my wounds but it just keeps getting worse.  The more milestones that my kids have the more I miss them both and wish they were here to see it.

Did you suffer any illness or injury in 2008?

I didn't have either but I did have 2 MRI's that amounted to nothing!  Just a big bill.  They still haven't found the cause of my heartbeat in my ear that I've had for 14 months or if the cyst in my brain is causing any problems.  Sometimes I wonder what doctors are really for?  I will need another MRI to see if there are any changes this year.

What was the best thing you bought this year?

My Mac.

Whose behavior merited celebration?

Melinda Adams...even through the grief of her daughter, Trinity, she seems to keep going and keeps her daughters memory alive by many acts of service.  She still morns the loss of her daughter as any Mother would and is totally honest about it.  I think this is amazing!  I love her honesty and strength.  She is an amazing Mother and person that I look up to. (This is a picture of Melinda giving gifts to a hospital this year at Christmas.)

Whose behavior disappointed you?

Why would I even begin to answer this question on here!

Where did most of your money go?

To bills...where else does it go?

What did you get really really excited

 about this year?

Chase being potty trained.  We are officially in underwear everyday as of November.  

What song will always remind you of 2008?

Jingle Bells, Gap Style.  I think I've listened to it about 76 times!!  =)

Compared to this time last year, are you: much happier, much nicer, or richer?

Well, I'm definitely not richer but I am always happy and I hope that I am nicer too.  That is something that I can always work on.  I need to be much nicer to those I love.

What were some of the most memorable trips you went on this year?

1. A cruise to Mexico

2. Disneyland with Grandma Hockey (Auntie Heather, Uncle Doug, Serenity, and Landen met us there)

3. Visiting Auntie DD in Pismo (playing with Joran and Keanu) 4 times!

4. A week in San Diego with Grandma Hockey

What do you wish you had done more of?

Service.

What do you wish you had done less of?

Eat.

Did you fall in love in 2008?

I am already in love!

What were your favorite TV programs in 2008?

I don't think that this blog is long enough to hold them all.  2008 is the official first full year that I have had DVR and it showed!  My favorite would have to be a tie between House, Fringe, American Idol, and The Hills.  Other shows that I love are: Mentalist, So you think you can Dance, The Bachelorette, The Office, Making the Band, and Secret Millionaire.  I know that I'm missing a ton but I just can't think of them right now. 

What were your best books you read this year?

Well, the only book that I read this year was the first 5 chapters of Twilight.

What was your greatest musical discovery this past year?

That Britney's (my niece) taste in music stinks!  Sorry Britney!

What did you want and get?

An Ipod.  I got a purple 16G Ipod Nano for Christmas from Danny.  Love it!  =)

What was the best movie you saw this year?

Hummm...let me guess, YES MAN!

What did you do on your birthday and how old did you turn?

I turned 31 this year and on my birthday I was in San Diego.  I actually got to see a great friend, Emily Fellmer, that I haven't seen in years.  Danny and I met her at a Chevy's and just hung out...it was awesome to see her.

What one thing would have made your year more satisfying?

More dates with my husband.  This year we have both made the goal to go out once a month.  Also, spending more time with family.  

How would you describe your personal fashion statement this year? Four words....New York and Company

What kept you sane this year?

A cruise with Danny, Brenda, and Jason. It was the first time since Danny and I had kids that we both went away without them.  It was well needed but we missed our kidos SO much!  

What celebrity did you fancy the most?

Is this even a question?  Jim Carrey!

Who did you miss this past year?

I miss my Daddy and my sister the most but other than that I would have to say my Mom, Tracy Furness and Heather Brandow.  My mom comes down to visit often but of course I would love to see her more!  Tracy moved to Utah a few years ago but I have thought about her quite a bit this year and would love to go visit her sometime in 2009.  It is time!  Heather lives in Fresno which isn't that far away but with our kids getting older we just don't seem to find the time to see each other as often as we used to.  I miss that!

Who were the best new people you met this year?

Kaylene and Riiana from gymnastics.  Kaylene wasn't a new person I met this year but our friendship did grow much more this year.  I am so sad to see her move to Ripon.  =(   Riiana and I have a great social hour on Thursdays.  =)

Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned this year.

I need to keep my mouth shut.

Gingerbread Train...

Instead of making a Gingerbread house this year we made a Gingerbread train. It was a lot of fun but I think the kids had more fun destroying it!  =)