tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65928915662468400172012-01-24T00:59:14.609-08:00joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.comBlogger2111100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-67281700326606980642012-01-21T13:21:00.000-08:002012-01-21T13:21:15.662-08:00

Black Beauty Back in 2007, things were bad.   Well, we had our health, we had our family, we had each other...  But we were not happy.Has that happened to you?  Everything looks fine from the outside, but on the inside, when your alone with the reality of your heart and soul and *ehem* checkbook, things look a little on the empty side? We were there.  We were so there.  We were 5 miles past

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-66279750052934295122011-12-28T14:07:00.000-08:002011-12-28T14:07:04.352-08:00

You all know how I hate to be dramatic... heh... but folks, I'll be darned if I didn't just have the best time of my life this last weekend.  Boyfriend and I went to the wonderful land formerly known as Chicago.  I say formerly because now and forevermore it will be referred to as "That Place We Are Going Back To ASAP."   I think I'm better at naming babies.  Whatevs. The point is, holy cow

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-34105029498584780832011-11-15T20:03:00.000-08:002011-11-15T20:08:33.703-08:00

Number One: I'm not afraid to admit that I'm a flawed human in need of grace, forgiveness and a constant stream of caffeinated beverages.  This week has been brutal.  Brew-taaalllll.   Sometimes life just wants to give you a high five.  In the face.  I'm begging God to teach me the lessons I need to learn from this most recent debacle.  God's good like that.  I don't think I'm going to be the

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-20828849255064842182011-09-16T17:55:00.000-07:002011-09-16T17:55:39.665-07:00

It's all a blur, really. One second I had the whole summer ahead of me, the next second school has started and I am an old woman. Ok.  I'm still the same age.  Ish.  But I FEEL old!  How can I not?  I have these three little rug rats leaving me for teachers and friends: Sorry about your face Brett.  I'm sure you understand. Oh.  I see.  You understand completely.  So Brett and I clearly

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-28275051334785017032011-06-21T01:31:00.000-07:002011-06-21T01:31:55.409-07:00

If a little baby boy turns two and his Mama refuses to acknowledge it does it still happen? It does. He just. keeps. growing. And that is a good thing.  That is a great thing.  Babies turn into boys who turn into men.  Men like my Boyfriend.  Men who make the world a better place.  I know this.  I repeat this to myself over and over again as I see him taking steps, learning words, and in

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-29223744631439384402011-05-31T17:10:00.000-07:002011-05-31T17:11:05.129-07:00

Oh Mini.  My little peace sign sporting garbage can on wheels.  My auto-door genius that has goldfish crackers ground into every. single. surface.I'm not going to miss you one stinking bit. I am, at my very core, an extremely idealistic person. (see peace sign on back of Mini)  I have these ideas that take root in my brain and heart and I can't seem to shake.  Sometimes they are clear winners,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-49530582830307684682011-05-10T18:42:00.000-07:002011-05-10T18:42:10.504-07:00

Okay.  OK.  This has been a long time coming. This experience, the very one I am about to blog about, was by far one of the strangest and most random things that has ever happened to me. Strange things happen to me all the time, I have three kids.  Just yesterday my three year old used my hair for a napkin.  I have no shortage of things that fall into the "strange" category.  This was strange

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-4449787236234499112011-05-07T18:01:00.000-07:002011-05-07T18:03:34.285-07:00

I have a few things to say about babies. First of all, what kind of sick joke is it that we can't remember being little bundles of L-O-V-E.  Can you imagine how nice it would be to get swaddled?  And why do they not make the adult version of the baby swings.  Oh, wait...  So I guess that counts as the adult swing.  I said: I GUESS THAT COUNTS AS THE ADULT SWING! (I figured I would have to speak

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-31430544815910511032011-05-03T11:39:00.000-07:002011-05-03T11:39:31.385-07:00

We make shopping in bulk cool.Oh Brett Baby.  My boyfriend.  Father of my Kiddos.  Partner in crime and grime. I woke up yesterday to flowers.  More.  Flowers.  He has been a little out of control.  Turns out, this guy is super nuts about me.  And that works out fine, because I'm his biggest fan.  So Boyfriend starts school mid June, and until then I'm looking forward to shopping with a cohort. 

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-84151966097100342682011-04-22T12:11:00.000-07:002011-04-22T12:33:03.914-07:00

We did it!  We made the epic move from home to new home!  From planning to doing!  From Salem to Portland!   I am, in short, in love. This place, specifically our apartment, is everything we hoped it would be and more.  I would like to give you a tour, so the next blog post (I'm working on it now!)  will be an "open house" of sorts, because I really want you to see why I am so busy living and

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-62127818267059196992011-04-08T20:52:00.000-07:002011-04-08T20:52:19.765-07:00

One of my favorite blogs is having a GIVEAWAY!!! Do me, her, and yerself a favor and mosey on over! CLICK HERE:) be free, 

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-80736834958067469342011-04-04T19:13:00.000-07:002011-04-04T19:13:27.327-07:00

What is it about sunshine that just makes everything better? Nothing like a walk with the family on a sunny day to make you feel  alive. A day without sunshine is like, you know, night. Steve Martin  be sunny,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-30326908218183454802011-04-01T00:40:00.000-07:002011-04-01T00:40:34.776-07:00

Gramps lucky pancakes. In two weeks, I am moving.In two weeks, this will pancake fest will not be a bi weekly occurrence.  So in two weeks, my Dad will not come downstairs every day with coffee and advice,and my Mom is not going to be my Dancing With The Stars play-by-play cohort.   Jones is not going to go to the stairs at 5:15 and clap when he hears my folks making dinner, and the girls are

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-22899129276146046002011-03-30T12:18:00.000-07:002011-03-30T12:18:41.899-07:00

In my defense:It was early(perhaps even 8am!)My Dad needed a photo for something RIGHT AWAY!(who am I to argue with that kind of urgency!?)And that robe looks good with those shoes.trust me. And for the record Yes Brett took this picture.And yes, this was the best one I could find of the FOUR he took.And yes, I turned it black and white so you wouldn't be able to see that my robe is a really

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-38718935482483824302011-03-28T21:30:00.000-07:002011-03-29T00:06:41.991-07:00

Hey hey hey it's your birthday! Happy Happy Birthday! No, not yours... Oh man this is awkward.  *EHEM* It's my birthday.  Well, was.  And this weekend I celebrated with my Boyfriend in the Emerald City!  That's right all your Frasier fans... We were in Seattle! Some people are bigger Frasier fans than others. We went specifically to see one of our favorite bands.  The much anticipated show was

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-4330152280206693802011-03-23T20:14:00.000-07:002011-03-23T20:14:10.562-07:00

This is an official shout out to my friend Jodi at Pink Designz.She made this whole contraption your looking at, and for a price that will blow your skirt up!Check out her website! be new,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-15656911182868858202011-03-23T11:56:00.000-07:002011-03-23T11:56:23.187-07:00

Don't be alarmed.  I didn't have this kind of work done.No.  No I did not. (We will discuss my intense desire for an eye lift later.) So as you can see (especially if you have had an eye lift!) I got a "BLOG FACE-LIFT!" The furniture of my blog has been rearranged, so to speak. I got a blog makeover! I'll stop.   *ehem* So what do you think?  Do you like?  Love?  Would you like to see more

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-31823653388547995202011-03-19T10:35:00.000-07:002011-03-19T10:35:17.038-07:00

I just thought I should remind you about one of my great loves in life... be stashtastic,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-89622580328139939012011-03-17T21:19:00.000-07:002011-03-17T21:19:13.751-07:00

I understand if you disagree with me.  I am offender numero uno at butchering the English Language.  I'm genuinely dyslexic and completely comfortable being wrong about almost anything.  It's a terrible combination.   But I do love language.  I fell in love with poetry at a young age.  I was asked to leave class in the 3rd grade because I was caught reading Caddie Woodlawn for the 3rd time.  (

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-73096562263265239532011-03-12T22:43:00.000-08:002011-03-12T22:43:01.469-08:00

This is Lindsay and Bryan.  Lindsay is my cousin, in whom I am well pleased, and Brian is the lucky lad who talked her into getting hitched.  They are getting married this Friday (registered at Macys if anyone is interested). "This Friday?" You are asking yourself.  "This looks like Lindsay is wearing a wedding dress in this photo!"  Well if you think that looks like a wedding dress... Just

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-23515744486523809852011-03-09T20:07:00.000-08:002011-03-09T20:07:21.700-08:00

This Printfound on this fabulous blog  This Art found on this fabulous blogOh my hat... THIS SONG.Found from my friend Kate. Just listen.  All the way through.  If you love me. Or if you love your ears. This natural looking makeup...    Creative blogs like this... And I am loving the fact that I am getting a blog update any day now... be ready,jq

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-59504430554771255002011-03-09T00:33:00.000-08:002011-03-09T00:33:46.152-08:00

Am I the only one who finds her house does not get clean unless people are coming over?  Like, new people?  Because that is very much the case at my casa.  First time dinner guests= clean house.  Fourth time dinner guests= you might want to step around that wet spot, I'm still not sure what it is. As you have guessed by now, we had some friends over for din din tonight.  It was especially

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-61521304022983202472011-03-07T09:21:00.000-08:002011-03-07T09:21:35.872-08:00

What story are you telling? from Rhetorik Creative on Vimeo. I'm nuts about this guy.  He is honest and kind, a delicate balance. Have a great Monday! jq

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-61339320497689977062011-03-05T06:04:00.000-08:002011-03-05T06:04:12.834-08:00

I can think of 30 things wrong with this photo, off the top of my head.  But I'm going to just explain what is going on here, as simply as I know how.  This is Addy.  Addie.  Adders.  Whatever.  The point is, she is my sweet little darling who is forever being subjected to elaborate games of "Dress Up" by her big sister.  In this round of torture family fun, Emmy covered Addies face in lotion,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-86657384635006378192011-03-04T00:15:00.000-08:002011-03-04T00:15:06.509-08:00

Wanna know a secret?  Sometimes I feel like a kid.  Not in the "Man I've got so much energy and I can't get enough of Justin Beiber!" kind of way, but in the "I feel like multitasking all the elements of my life should be easier." kind of way.  Tonight I was trying to hang out with my friend and just "chill" but I was editing photos.  This morning I was trying to dress Jones and check voice-mails

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-52442864060963178462011-02-24T00:04:00.000-08:002011-02-24T00:04:13.820-08:00

I did have a plan for today.  I don't remember it, of course, but I'm pretty sure it involved a shower and leaving the house tonight. Those two dreamy things did not happen.  And today really was great. Let me rephrase that:  It started out great.  GREAT.  I woke up at ohdarkthirty with none other than Mr. Jones and started buzzing around the house and picking up odds (garbage) and ends (more

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-88129143472539134552011-02-18T21:36:00.000-08:002011-02-18T21:36:44.515-08:00

Oh Noel.  My fearless sister.  My most beautiful sister.  Ok, my only sister but the point remains.   Noel is my favorite person to find and obsess over new music with.  Like this: I know, right?  It hurts it's so good.  And I'm a sucker for a Ginger.  Yeah I'm talkin to you Conan.  And I'm a sucker for a man that can sing like a woman.  Yeah I'm talkin to you Conan. Where were we? In

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-27063720471423045462011-02-17T21:55:00.000-08:002011-02-17T21:55:49.160-08:00

Watch out ladies.   This is his signature look these days; The Smolder.   I get it.  He has those eyes and he will use them.  I still can't figure out what this look means, he gets it every time I whip out the camera and then laughs like mad, like he knows his "go ahead, make my day" look is so 2010.   So I've been a tad absent the last few... eh... months?  Well, see above for reason.  This

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-78118721813109389942011-01-17T00:13:00.000-08:002011-01-17T00:14:23.359-08:00

I know I'm late.  I know that most people have all but forgotten you amid the buzz of the fresh new year... But I haven't. I have not forgotten the sting of watching my baby boys arm be poked and squeezed for blood, or the joy of happy news from yet another batch of tests. I have not forgotten the thrill of victory as my favorite Man got his much earned interview to his first choice school.  I

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-81685061942970270422011-01-06T22:07:00.000-08:002011-01-06T22:07:56.752-08:00

...on a mailbox in Portland.  Looks like someone is not embracing the magic that is social networking!!! be real, jq

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-7850051050864759392011-01-03T00:26:00.000-08:002011-01-03T00:26:06.941-08:00

 Karen, Tonight I watch the orange sun wrestle the horizon and spit embers across the purple sky.  Like it knows you made your great escape, from this life into the next.  It seems to struggle along with us, desperate to compensate for your sudden absence.  I watch as it becomes even more alive with all the color I have ever known. Like you lit it on fire by leaving, and we are all left here,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-74347230117093789622010-12-31T01:42:00.000-08:002010-12-31T01:43:23.117-08:00

Or, as I like to call it, T.C.T.A.A.M. Or not. Anyway.  Remember the begining of December?  Way back, 30-ish days ago?  When I thought I was going to blog everyday and have all my gifts wrapped by the 8th.  (Why I set these obscure goals for myself is still a mystery for my future therapist to work out.)  I was going to toast nuts and bake bread and eat cheese.  Drink eggnog and be merry and

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-74209595433785817822010-12-06T23:18:00.000-08:002010-12-06T23:18:33.484-08:00

I'm the first to admit it, I have an unhealthy relationship with food. I just like it.  I love it.  I want some more of it. *ehem*  You get the point. So when I saw this I think I had a mini stroke. i heart this source Is this really happening?  What does it all mean?  It's so beautiful! I will say it again; unhealthy.   So I will be making this for some cute gifts to drop off to friends

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-7423950313031217482010-12-06T00:36:00.000-08:002010-12-06T14:35:13.225-08:00

My three kids huddled around the nativity set. This folks, is the most wonderful time of the year. I have already almost burst with the joy of it all when tonight we drove around listening to Christmas music and looking at the Christmas lights and feeling the Christmas love. Em said "This is my favorite thing to do around Christmas time."Adders sang to Frosty the Snowman at the top of her lil'

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-41968722055250948062010-12-04T01:22:00.000-08:002010-12-04T01:22:33.515-08:00

Ultra Fake Blond?  I am really considering it... Discuss.... Also, if you don't already, "follow" my blog... I had a goal of getting to the triple digets in my first year.... Make my dreams come true, you crazy kids. Don't forget to let me know if this hair is a go or a no go. You hold my fate in your hands. be blond,  (or not)

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-72010423883736606102010-12-02T20:52:00.000-08:002010-12-02T20:52:47.608-08:00

Why on earth have I not blogged about Johnny yet?  This is my cousins little boy, and he is a gem.  He laughs at all my jokes, entertains my kids, and makes being 10 look easy. One of my favorite things about Johnny is his very strict policy on taking things literally.  Like really literally.   (You can tell this is about to get good...) Like when he was telling his Pop what he wanted for

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-62962223452324973762010-12-02T00:02:00.000-08:002010-12-02T00:02:12.924-08:00

My first Blog award. Stylish?  Really?  If nuts is a style, I got it baby.  Well that came out all wrong, but you get the point.  But you know me, I don't shy away from an accolade.  The condition of this award is to pay it forward to your top 8 blogs... easy!!!  The hard part for me was coming up with 8 fun facts about myself you didn't already know...  Here are the official rules 1. Thank

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-45784042213604033942010-12-01T01:15:00.000-08:002010-12-01T01:15:54.348-08:00

I know what your thinking.  "Is that a 5 hr energy drink?"  or maybe "Is Joy trying to avoid that 2:30 feeling?" The answer is yes and yes. It was some early time on Thankyou'sgiving and I was about to run my first 5K with a whole car load of cousins. I heart these people.  They are funny and real and they laugh their hats off and start out the race with far, far too much clothing on and

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-39275548981600140692010-11-29T22:40:00.000-08:002010-11-29T22:40:53.527-08:00

You know it is going to be a long day when you are woken up by a child wearing a tiger mask and asking you where the scissors are.  The sharp ones, specifically.   So you pull yourself out of bed and your foot lands directly in a mysterious wet spot.  Of course it does.  It's Monday after all. Head to the bathroom to find your one year old playing trucks on the toilet seat and laughing like a

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-59824215442246213842010-11-17T01:11:00.000-08:002010-11-17T01:39:28.102-08:00

Oh I have so many things to tell you.  I want to tell you what November has been like on this side of the computer. But I think this picture pretty much sums it up.I am going to go ahead and do a November Round Up for yall, complete with my favorite thing on earth, a list. This is not the lost cat Em thought it was.  I was taking her photo with her fuzzy find when I pointed out the name tag with

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-47605950816188138522010-11-04T23:34:00.000-07:002010-11-04T23:39:44.388-07:00

 Oh Adders.  You little bundle of love.  And rage.  I mean, rage is a pretty bold statement.  It's a bold statement to make about a three year old you move mini vans for.  But trust me, this baby knows how to yell like a man, demand like a Sergeant, and dance like a ballerina.  The makings of our next great leader, no doubt.  I asked her what she wanted to tell God tonight and she said "

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-28657184950780523892010-11-02T23:03:00.000-07:002010-11-02T23:03:14.054-07:00

"I can't wait to be a vegetarian.  I just don't know if I can stop eating bacon.  That's just going to be so hard.  Ugg."  -Emerson This is getting weird.  Her pictures are looking more and more like me.  Her offhand comments are sounding more and more like mine.  Tonight she said "Mom, tonight was the best night of my life." *dramatic pause* "OF.  MY.  LIFE."  And that was all because we ate

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-52488166078339940562010-10-28T06:47:00.000-07:002010-10-28T06:47:36.354-07:00

Hi lovely readers. My name is Brittany and I'm from Little Ditties. I spend my days cutting hair and my nights dreaming of thrifting, mid century furniture, my new instax camera and anything pretty =) It is a JOY (no pun intended) to be a guest blogger today. I thought I would share a fun, trendy project with one of my favorite themes right now...Pennants!!! All you need are a few

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-55201836363099961252010-10-26T00:20:00.000-07:002010-10-26T00:22:13.359-07:00

 Sonic.  How I love your cherry-lime slushiness.   And your outdoor picnic area. In fact, we take family pics at your fine establishment.Not good family pics.  But pics, none the less.  The glasses come with a kids meal.  In case you were wondering where to get a pair.And Brett and I do watch Jones to make sure he doesn't head dive off the picnic tabe.  I swear.(I think it saves time to

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-13624370848374579382010-10-21T23:06:00.000-07:002010-10-22T00:44:32.589-07:00

...and also it wasn't. In this corner, the pros, I had a great week!  A friend who now lives in a town about an hr from me had me come down and take family photos of her beautiful pumpkins.  (Kids, not actual fall vegetables.  Though given the time of year I understand your confusion.)  She even paid me money.  Always a treat! Well, it is a treat, until your memory card has a seizure and deletes

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-41442466953769568652010-10-10T16:01:00.000-07:002010-10-10T16:01:50.638-07:00

Yeah I thought you'd like that.  It is my new purse.  It was $8 and makes me feel like a Million Bucks.  This little lady is ringing in at #5 on this weeks Top 5 Countdown!   So pretty.  So cheap.  The way a handbag is supposed to be.  In related news, I have one kid in diapers.  This has been the case for a few months now but I didn't want to *jinks* it by blogging about it.  But it's now

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-18900900077448823602010-10-07T01:07:00.000-07:002010-10-07T09:50:13.440-07:00

I simply cannot stop watching this. I have been up for about two hrs, trying to sleep, and to no avail. So I keep coming out to the living room and watching this. I laugh out loud every time and I'm pretty sure I have some sweet dance moves to show yall the next time you come over for dinner. Did I just say "yall?" What is going on with me? I've gone country and I can't get up. Oh well.

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-73589542911891802722010-10-04T23:32:00.000-07:002010-10-05T09:33:41.415-07:00

Oh my little tykes.  How I love you.  So much I think I might just go ahead and dedicate my 200th (yes, you heard me correctly) blog post to the three of you. Let us start with Ad.  My little mother.  The cutie I can't handle. So, here she is, cooking.  It involved a very complicated recipe... grapes, milk, water... trust me... it was epic.  We all had to smile and say "yummmm!" over and over

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-76874695092172989312010-09-30T00:00:00.000-07:002010-10-05T09:31:01.450-07:00

I know everyone says this, but I just don't know how it got this bad. That hair is O.O.C. (That means out of control, for those of you who don't speak the lingo.) How about this for lingo: Bananas. Example:  "It would be positively bananas to let your son have a borderline ginger mullet at the tender age of 15 months."  And yet, here we are.  15 months old and a curly, red-ish, sweaty mullet.

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-76113653937660233152010-09-27T21:40:00.000-07:002010-09-27T21:40:23.681-07:00

I have so much good news I don't even know where to start. I know that I usually say that and then tell you something trivial, usually relating to dairy products, but this time its different.  This time it's for reals.  Everyone knows when you put that extra 's' at the end of 'real' things get, well, for reals. I assure you, this is worth the run on sentences.  Long story short (like I have

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-25348001994074882902010-09-22T23:16:00.000-07:002010-09-22T23:17:45.950-07:00

Want to know a secret?  One day a long long time ago today, in the far far away land of Portland... My boyfriend had an interview at OHSU. (Yup.  This place.) For the P.A. Program he has been pining away for.   For about two years, if anyone else is counting.  I sure am. They get about 1,000 applicants every year for the program he is applying for... they interview about 10% of those

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-16018404793733228692010-09-14T23:56:00.000-07:002010-09-15T00:00:49.102-07:00

Traveling with a baby.  Perks are, as follows: No flight attendant, not even the really mean old one, can say no to a great photo op, even if it is technically breaking the rules.  (No, i didn't run Jones threw the X-Ray.  I'm not a monster.  And they wouldn't let me.) I was joking about wanting to put Jones threw the X-Ray thing.  You get to board the plane early.  Really! Very often you,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-65457615294162786682010-09-10T21:49:00.000-07:002010-09-10T21:49:26.231-07:00

Things just got awesome over here. My friend Rachel came over. She brought hats. Holy cow I love hats. They cure all sorts of hair ailments.   like this. Look at me, all preggo.And with such a lovely expression on my face.And Emerson looks thrilled to be getting the full Easter treatment.  Did I ever tell you about the time my friend Jake called me while I was in the car driving to tell me that

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-78259101451899955692010-09-09T16:00:00.000-07:002010-09-09T21:28:44.161-07:00

I can't wait to hear what you think... I listened to you... I followed my heart... I'm not done... & I'm ok with that... (theme of my life?  I think so!) Here it is. be opinionated,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-51892621705869093582010-09-08T22:17:00.000-07:002010-09-08T22:17:08.186-07:00

this is not Nikki.  this is a Jcrew model. Dear Nikki, This is hard.  I don't know where to start.  I think we both know what this is about, it has been the elephant in the room for weeks now. I dyed my own hair.  Again.  It looks terrible.  Please reach down, deep down, in the cackles of your heart, and grant me this one wish. Please fix my hair.  In a real salon.  I will pay you, I will

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-19270476710914843622010-09-07T15:21:00.000-07:002010-09-07T15:21:51.620-07:00

 Really, I don't know what to say.He is cute.  Too cute.  Like he is secretly trying to kill me with cuteness. Apples are one of my favorite things to use as a prop when shooting kids. Just look at that contrast!  Addy you are quite the willing model.  She loves to have her pic taken.Ok- maybe the apple was not the cutest thing in that photo.  She seems to be doing fine without it. But what on

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-11293764564674253102010-09-06T22:32:00.000-07:002010-09-06T22:32:44.058-07:00

Really, I have no idea what I did to deserve this kind of quick and intelligent response.  My most sincere thank you to the quick responders!  I was prompted to look at the web page from a non-Mac (total fail, it looked compleatly different! ) and to change the spelling of web-sight to site (good catch Karen! thanks for looking out for your dyslexic friend) and out of the 15 or so people who

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-87754677519748827872010-09-05T00:50:00.000-07:002010-09-05T00:52:55.162-07:00

what on earth is that? Oh I see.  Emerson got the camera again.  Ok.  Lets see what she snapped. oh my.  126 pictures in about 30 minuets.   Sharp shooter to say the least. Ah she got a cute one of Ads. and Jones.   and the stickers she plasters to the window of my poor little mini van. sorry mini.  love ya. and THERE it is!  I am nurturing a creative spirit often at the cost of my

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-82101281606569641122010-09-04T00:32:00.000-07:002010-09-04T00:32:44.132-07:00

You know how we feel about food, right? I mean, I know I talk about food a lot.  I mean, more than say, a normal person would... But can I just reiterate how much my family digs food?  We have a few things working in our favor: 1.Easy to please.  We like almost anything as long as there is a whole mess of it.  Your welcome Izzys.  Your welcome.see? enthusiasm in action. 2.We appriciate simple

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-1022401419657724832010-09-01T21:46:00.000-07:002010-09-01T21:46:53.485-07:00

Grocery Outlet.    Are there two sweeter words in the english language?* I went to that odd and eclectic store today and decided a few things.   #1.  I like not knowing exactly what I'm going to get.  Grocery Outlet, you surprise me with your delicious finds and cheap wine.  Sometimes it's good, and sometimes I have to chalk it up to an adventure.   #2.  People should give a mother with

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-11555411810430570832010-08-28T21:32:00.000-07:002010-08-28T21:33:07.227-07:00

We all have long days.  We just do.   Call them what you want; Bad, crappy, hard, emotional.... Bad days happen to everyone. But so do good days.  And so do in between days.   I think the key is remembering one when your in the other.  Grabbing hold of some precious perspective when you are lost in a maze of "right now".   So if you will excuse me, I am going to have a glass of wine and

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-53508492706812400302010-08-26T11:21:00.000-07:002010-08-28T21:18:57.284-07:00

When I first started this lil' blog-o-sphere, I had grand ideas.  When don't I?  Ideas are not my problem, people.  I have ideas for days.  I had dreams of elaborate crafting endeavors and telling you all about the highs and lows of it, of taking photographs and breaking down the ISO and shutter speed, dreams of giveaways and reader guest posts. Like I said, ideas: not my problem. But you

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-39985721161345023152010-08-21T23:27:00.000-07:002010-08-21T23:41:10.147-07:00

I am having a hard time not squealing out loud over here. I got a treat in the mail today. And when I say treat I mean this: So this is love.  *sigh*  Finger tattoo mustaches sent from a friend from High school turned blog reader.  How else would she have known about my unhealthy love of all things stash? Anyone remember this guy?  Don't think I have forgotten you, Tom.  Your still #1 on

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-66393185374121739922010-08-19T23:56:00.000-07:002010-08-20T08:19:09.276-07:00

"It happens like a light that has been switched off forever and is suddenly on.  It happens like a cup that has sat quietly waiting, void and dry- and in the blink of an eye- it is full.  It happens like the morning, breaking threw the fog; suddenly everything is clear.  Everything is new. Becoming a Mom may not be like that for everyone, but for me, it was.  It was every hope and dream I

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-49904034211735216312010-08-18T23:01:00.000-07:002010-08-18T23:27:44.238-07:00

My Dear Emerson, I look into your eyes, those clear, questioning, brilliant eyes, and see a baby. My first baby.  The little girl I did not expect, the blessing I didn't see coming, the most surprising gift I have ever been given.   On a cold December day my roommate and best friend picked me up from work. "You are pregnant."  he breathed while he ran his hand over his 5 o'clock shadow.  "

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-33649877120808088422010-08-16T00:43:00.000-07:002010-08-17T10:41:30.475-07:00

I tend to go at life with passionate, broad, creative strokes.  I am more Van Gogh, less Escher, whatever that means to you.  And this time in my life, the time I affectionately refer to as my late mid twenty's, is no different.  I am once again absorbed in the expressive arts.  Music, writing, photography, comedy... these have all found a home in my life again.  It is as if these important

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-43507493102256090842010-08-10T16:58:00.000-07:002010-08-10T16:58:50.596-07:00

Every month we make a to-do of going out for Mexican food as a family.  Emerson was overheard telling a friend "We are Mexican freaks!  We love Mexico."  Really, I don't know what to say to that statement.  So I will just second that.  I guess. I find her transparency refreshing, if not her word choice.  Speaking of Emerson, she woke me up this a.m. in the most unusual way.  A glass of water to

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-7789864229636674192010-08-06T00:39:00.000-07:002010-08-06T00:39:55.949-07:00

Well this happened.My Boyfriends family churned out9 kids in like, I don't know, 10 minuets.We're fertile like that. Can we take a little time-out here and note the baby on the right... specifically the head size say, compared to absolutely every other kid on the ledge.  Just saying.  Impressive, my little man.  Love from your Mutha. So we had a family weekend with my Mans side of the Family. 

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-22006812652431660022010-08-02T11:49:00.000-07:002010-08-02T11:50:28.448-07:00

I take you, Photography, to be my new endeavor in life.My new source of inspiration and excitement.  In good lighting and bad lighting. With paying clients or my own children(whom I rarely charge) I will enjoy youspend money on youmaybe make a little money on you but mostly I will have fun with you. This is my humble vow to blog. be committed,  PS I took this picture when working for Jenny

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-72740876542783698222010-07-27T22:59:00.000-07:002010-07-27T22:59:42.147-07:00

Almost...... a grown up musician... ....the perfect living room...... thought I always look like this ......then remembered I usually look like this... ...and that's ok because I feel like this... be honest,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-8185354306102733062010-07-24T23:32:00.000-07:002010-07-24T23:32:50.453-07:00

This is Jamie, Nicole and Joy. Nicole has been my cousin, well, forever.  Very handy, considering she is one of my best friends.  (I kind of hit the family jackpot, more on that later.)But Jamie, now Jamie is a mutual friend who turned into a blog friend who turned into a real deal friend.  And when I say "real deal" I mean we hung out in real time and still like each other. I love it when my

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-9955778996159685962010-07-20T23:29:00.000-07:002010-07-20T23:36:00.466-07:00

So here is the thing, if I ever get asked to say something on the local news- I need someone to S T O P me.  I mean, why on earth do they ask poor schmucks what they think about things?  Do I really care what Mary from Gresham thinks about the recent petty crime?  Nope.  Poor thing.  You can tell she is uncomfortable.  But what choice does she have, with that camera in her face, but to say

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-58807196542549024382010-07-16T22:18:00.000-07:002010-07-16T22:19:57.881-07:00

I am trying a new simple font today and it just feels wrong.  But I am thinking I should just press on.  Try new things.  Get outside my comfort zone. Speaking of trying new things... I have a drivers license now.  As in, I didn't have one for *ehem* a while.  Like a year.  I found out the hard way, meaning that a waiter refused to give me my wine one night because my license was more than a year

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-77618833863151569222010-07-16T00:53:00.000-07:002010-07-16T00:55:12.186-07:00

Well it happend.She turned three. Without my permission, I might add. Naughty kids. She woke up to a fancy family breakfastWe had french toast.  (*here is the key*  use home made bread... to. die. for.)And after the delicious meal and tearing into her gifts (A two foot tall Dora!  Where have you been all our lives!)  We road the carousel... Addys horse was named Magic and she kissed it goodbye...

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-86296720131427243092010-07-14T22:08:00.000-07:002010-07-14T23:36:39.668-07:00

 Indeed. Could someone please hand me a tissue? I just found out my Baby Girl turns *THREE* tomorrow. Which means it was three years ago.  Three years ago when I woke up with the sun, feeling tired, full, happy.  I lifted my 23 month old child from her crib and tried to help her cling to my ever expanding sphere of a body.  We ate breakfast, my almost two-year-old and I, in silence.  Smiling at

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-86544356887060849682010-07-09T13:47:00.000-07:002010-07-09T13:54:56.882-07:00

Well folks, we have ourselves a new hobby...  You got it.  Canning.  It is the most fun I have had in the kitchen since I was a newlywed.  (don't ask.) *ehem* My first attempt at food preservation was a hit.  I am happy to report that we now have enough jam to last us well into 2011, all for about $5.  Really. But you know me.  I don't have a happy medium, only happy extra-large. So I hopped on

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-89922145830159557992010-07-07T23:30:00.000-07:002010-07-07T23:30:04.906-07:00

 I like looking back in the car and seeing these little piggies.  That's all.

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-24417879620333166872010-07-07T00:20:00.000-07:002010-07-07T00:23:46.937-07:00

Em got her hands on the camera and snapped a few pics.Sister. Brother. Daddy.Leg of the coffee table she "fixed". And of course, her dog. Well this is embarrassing.Someone get that camera away from that kid! She has not learned the fine art of "only photograph things you don't mind people actually seeing." True Story: I was pregnant with my first baby.  (the photographer featured above.)  I was

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-60508565501802378132010-07-03T00:35:00.000-07:002010-07-03T00:41:12.906-07:00

Today we ran some errands as a family and stumbled upon a FREE face painting booth!  Can you think of a better surprise?  And this feller was good.  He had each kiddo all face painted up in about two minuets, and let them pick the theme of their facial art.  He used an airbrush thing, and yes, the look was similar to those crazy t-shirts you could get at the fair in the 80's. It was a neon dark

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-2354530641329727702010-06-28T23:28:00.000-07:002010-06-28T23:28:22.724-07:00

I Dear Brett, I like everything about you.  Everything.   You laugh at my jokes,  make me ramen noodles with entirely too much hot sauce, help me find my phone every time I lose it (about 27 times a day) and almost never care what your hair looks like.   You are intelligent in a world full of dummies.  (that is a scientific fact.) You are hopeful in a world full of cynics. You are

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-6322527335059273772010-06-26T23:11:00.000-07:002010-06-26T23:11:44.993-07:00

Hi Kids.   You may be asking yourself, "Who is this "joyful quarles" clogging up my reader?"  But let me assure you, we used to be friends. I just, er, dropped off the face of the blog-planet for a short time.  Kids, Sickness, Sunshine, Friends, Vegas... Lots went down, baby.  And I can't wait to tell you about it all. But I got to start somewhere. But let me start with the kids first

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-705887975637297032010-06-18T23:47:00.000-07:002010-06-18T23:47:59.023-07:00

I saw this earlier this week and can't stop thinking about it.   Who wants to make a guess as to what he is listening to?   I think this would be fitting: Or it might be the song my kiddo was singing her baby brother tonight. It went like this " Yooouuu are my aaanngelll... you are!  my angel!  you are!  miiiiiiiiiiiiiiiy aaaannnnnggellll!!!!!!  whoooooooo!" Sing it sister. be holy,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-52477232520099266612010-06-17T01:06:00.000-07:002010-06-18T23:52:14.419-07:00

Brett is a great guy.  We all know this.  We remember my ranting. He smells good, sings OK and makes a mean sandwich.  If you think that I am alone in my admiration of the man I submit to you exhibit "A": (Sorry I had to take out the photo because it had my home address... Nice catch M:)  ) exhibit "A" What you see here is a letter confirming Brett did indeed get the job he applied for at

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-30258627391960876172010-06-16T00:04:00.000-07:002010-06-16T00:04:45.821-07:00

Albertsons will never be the same again.   The Q's showed up with fistful of coupons and no shoes on the girls {how do these things slip by me at home?!?!}  And we began our shopping trip. First off:  We all looked homeless.  So that's cool.  Who doesn't want to look full blown crazy when shopping with three kids and using a complicated yet money saving coupon strategy? {Free toothpaste!  Almost

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-40938370705726246202010-06-12T00:11:00.000-07:002010-06-12T00:11:15.454-07:00

OH my. I made a mistake. Again. {no it was not cheese.  give me some credit. psh.} Well some of our good friends came over for dinner tonight and we had lasagna.  Lots of lasagna. Innocent enough.  Right?  So I had a glass two glasses of wine (great wine, great lasagna... how can this go wrong???) And then I did what any normal person does after a huge meal. I WENT FOR A RUN.  And if I was, I

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-81097057413625452722010-06-10T00:01:00.000-07:002010-06-10T01:13:15.031-07:00

I am in love with this.  Judge me if you must, but I have a thing for "As Seen On TV" products.   Anyone out there remember the "Pore Sucker"? *ehem* Oh my.  I spent 40 good bucks on that thing.  I even paid extra for "shipping and handling" so I could get the "free" gift.  It was supposed to be a plush terrycloth robe.  Can I just say "plush", "terrycloth" and "robe" are all "misnomers" when

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-40004074147390246092010-06-08T00:54:00.000-07:002010-06-08T00:54:52.320-07:00

I love me some Mondays!  Can I get a witness?   ??????? Let me explain.    When I look at a Monday on the calender, I think: "Hey! Maybe this week will be different!  Maybe you will stay on top of laundry and get to bed by 11 and up by 6 and- who knows?- even finish that book Karen gave you to read!" One of the perks of my mental condition (Optimist Maximus) is thatI am incapable of seeing a

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-57541101010277359932010-06-06T01:11:00.000-07:002010-06-06T01:12:36.195-07:00

almost one. almost blooming almost cut my hair like this.(that goodness for honest boyfriends, am I right?) be persuaded,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-42477491676570133962010-06-01T22:41:00.000-07:002010-06-02T01:17:40.647-07:00

Oh my.  We have a problem.  Wipe Out is back on TV.  Come on ABC!  How in the hey am I supposed to get anything done?!  Between that show and this clip: I may seriously never be the same again. My apologies to those of you who have standards for humor.  Apparently I am Eleven.  As in, Eleven years old. You know, on the inside. *ehem* This thing on? Anyway.  So I am getting a

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-57432540370735858662010-06-01T00:00:00.000-07:002010-06-01T00:00:28.258-07:00

IF you could have only ONE outfit to wear for an entire YEAR... What would it be. I am thinking about doing this, so be honest, be creative, and please know that undergarments will be worn without charge. Duh. Also, yes-  I will wash it. I'm crazy, not homeless. Although the comparison has been made.  (My wardrobe is, uh, tattered.) Stay tuned to find out what the winner is...  be 365,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-18637354778096328022010-05-28T00:55:00.000-07:002010-05-28T00:56:26.953-07:00

I love when  really sweet people really nice people people with  love in their hearts spring in their steps send out porn on facebook without knowing it.  (they got "facebook hacked") Facebook hacking is real. ( real funny. when it's not you being hacked.) If you have not seen it watch out. please.  don't open a funny lookingpost  that says "thought you would love this!" if

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-60713617947508489952010-05-26T22:23:00.000-07:002010-05-26T22:23:50.902-07:00

I will not die an unlived life.  I will not live in fear of falling or catching fire. I choose to inhabit my days, to allow my living to open me, to make me less afraid, more accessible, to loosen my heart until it becomes a wing, a torch, a promise.  I choose to risk my significance; to live so that which comes to me as seed goes to the next as blossom and that which comes to me as

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-86913466158961834292010-05-26T00:26:00.000-07:002010-05-26T00:26:07.267-07:00

I was a bad girlfriend.  There.  I said it.  I sucked at dating.  I once read " I Kissed Dating Goodbye" but I think I would have been worse at "courting" than I was at dating.  Whatever.  I am good at other things, like.... making soup.  (You can't be good at everything.  You just can't.) But that was then.  This is now.  I have a boyfriend I have a major thing for AND we moved in together, so

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-5923356904008544142010-05-23T22:58:00.000-07:002010-05-23T22:58:34.181-07:00

I know this is going to evoke some rage from a select few readers, but I just have to come clean about something. I am watching LOST right now.   The last episode ever.  Like, ever ever. It's the first episode I have ever seen from start to end. I'm sorry, passionate LOST followers.  I'm sorry for jumping right in to the end of what I can only assume was a very fulfilling 6 year run. I'm

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-63512800991809988652010-05-21T11:13:00.000-07:002010-05-21T11:13:53.007-07:00

Well this is just embarrassing.  We all remember this.  But trust me, you don't know, you weren't there, the hurts are still deep.  It's a testament to human resilience I can still type.   Somehow, I prevail. Go me. Humkay- So yeah, I tried to wax my own armpits.  Sure, it went terribly.  Yep, I posted it for all to see.  But I learned from the great armpit debacle of 2010.  I considered

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-35466412232261055282010-05-17T22:25:00.000-07:002010-05-17T22:25:54.755-07:00

I would stop reading this if I were you. Really. Look away. Well, I tried to warn you. Have you heard of Mastitis? Well I have. Like today, for instance. Let me just break it down for you.  I have been nursing or pregnant for 5 and a half years.  Really.  My poor little body.  And when I say "little" I mean little-ish to huge-ish and everything in between ish.   (but always big hands and

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-59450560707154387562010-05-17T00:33:00.000-07:002010-05-17T00:34:23.895-07:00

Anyone miss me? *hello?  this thing on?* Well I missed you, you crazy bunch of blog reading... ehe... readers? *that kind of fell apart at the end... let's go easy on me....it's been a few days... * And I could have used a good ear to whine on, because I went to Disneyland with my kids and you know what a drag that can be.  The rides, the princesses, don't even get me started on the food. I

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-56936702266838500712010-05-11T22:43:00.000-07:002010-05-11T22:43:11.006-07:00

DISNEY!!! The happiest place on earth!  (Why do I feel like it's copyright infringement every time I write that?  Walt?  Are you watching me?) I hesitate to post because I have no photos, but sit back, relax and let me paint a picture of today for you using my favorite organizational tool:  A LIST.  (Capitol letters lets you know I mean it.) 74 degrees, slight breeze, lots of sunscreen.  We

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-16430521182361109642010-05-08T16:39:00.000-07:002010-05-08T16:40:04.908-07:00

Remember this?  I do.  The belly.  The kicks.  The gas.  (just me?) Well my friend Ashley here makes being 7 months preggo look easy. Unlike me. I made being 7 months preggo look chubby.   But hey, we all have different callings in life. Mine is to raise other pregnant peoples self esteem.It's a long story.  Your welcome. be kind,

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6592891566246840017.post-23893065101478674382010-05-07T10:47:00.000-07:002010-05-07T10:47:13.716-07:00

be shameless, 

joyqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07908906360307763417noreply@blogger.com1