The Christmas Carol

Shelley has a little theater called the Virginia Theater. They put on quite a few shows a year. They put on The Christmas Carol every year and this year I decided to be a part. I played the part of Missionary #2. This is a pic of the cast on closing night after our show. We did the show 8 times and we were all a little excited that the show was over.

The cast! I would write down all the names if I knew them all.

Missionary #2 and Missionary #1!

Lots of gossip and fun!

Bravo to everyone. Splendid job! Marvelous!

Blurry curtain call.

"A few of us are endeavoring to raise some fund for meat and drink and means of warmth for the poor, who suffer greatly at this present time."

"Scrooge and Marley's I believe. Have I the pleasure of speaking to Mr. Scrooge or Mr. Marley?"

It was great fun. God bless us EVERYONE!

my blog will not work on whitneys computer!

Whats Your Obsession?

I was organizing my closet the other day and going through all my clothes. It really is quite a therapeutic thing to do. I feel very de-cluttered and free after I see everything stacked nice and neat in my closet. I do this quite often and my husband wishes I would do it a little less because I throw out clothes that I just end up needing to replace later. But, that is a different story, different post. Anyway, I was hanging up all my shirts when I realized something. I have a lot of hoodies! Way too many. However, I couldn't get myself to throw a single one away. It is true, I can not pass up a good hoodie. If I see one in the store that is on sale, it has to be mine. If someone is throwing out clothes and an old ratty hoodie shows up in the mix of rejects. It becomes my treasure. I counted my hoodies and there are 17! Who needs 17 hoodies. But, as you can see from the shabby appearance of some of these hoodies, they receive a lot of use. I would wear a hoodie everyday if I could. I would and I often do. I don't have a job where I have to dress up, so this is my wardrobe. They are the perfect accesory because they hide everything, they are warm, they are versatile, and they can be worn over another shirt and removed if it gets a little toasty. So many uses for such a remarkable garment. *There are a couple in the dirty laundry right now that didn't get added to my collection for the picture, but I wanted you to know that they were there so they didn't geel left out.

All my hoodies lined up a the very front of my closet. The first things I go to in the morning, and the most wonderful article of clothing to ever have been invented.

Lined up on my bed for a photo shoot! They really loved all the attention they received today. I will have to wear one of them tonight as a reward!

Here is my challenge to you! I want all who read this post to go through their closet and take of picture of their obsession. I know that my sister Emily has a enormous collection of jeans that I am dying to see altogether. I also know that my sister Holly has quite the collection of sweaters that need to be shown to the world. (Well, maybe some of the ones from the 80's can be left in the closet just for the time being:) I really want to see those obsessions ladies. Maybe you have an alarming amount of shoes or necklaces. I know there is one article of clothing that we all can't live without. Let's hear about yours!! This will be fun - please do it!

Pay It Forward

Pay It Forward Exchange is based on the concept of the movie "Pay it forward". I will send a hand made gift to the first three people who leave a comment to this post on my blog requesting to join the PIF exchange. All the gifts will be made and posted out 'sometime within the next year'. How exciting to not know when your surprise package will arrive! What you need to do in return, is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog. This Exchange is only open to those with active websites or blogs. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS PROMISE TO POST THIS SAME 'PAY IT FORWARD' MESSAGE ONTO YOUR BLOG, WHICH MUST BE ACTIVE IN ORDER TO PLAY. YOU WILL PAY IT FORWARD TO THREE PEOPLE WHO COMMENT ON YOUR BLOG. I'd love for you to join me! Will you? Other comments are welcome, but only the first three will be my Pay It Forward recipients. Come and join me who doesn't love a gift or giving gifts???

New Boot

Since my life is not so exciting, and I have no cute children to post pictures of, I am posting a picture of my new boots. They are cute huh, and they deserved to be posted. I got them on sale, of course. I also want to say that I got to have all you can eat spaghetti @ Hy-Vee for $1 buck. NICE!!!! It was mediocre, but worth the buck I paid for it. I really loved the garlic bread and I ate a lot. That is all I have to say tonight. Peace OUT!

Christmas Countdown

This is courtesy of Erin Pitcher. I thought I would share it!


November 28: Decide what gift you're giving to Christ this year. (service to others, working on a personal weakness, etc.) Write it down and put it in the Christmas box.
November 29: Attend the temple or plan when you will attend.
November 30: At church, talk to someone new or who you don't know well.
December 1: Visit JesusChrist.lds.org. Read one of the articles or watch one of the multimedia presentations.
December 2: Call a friend or family member you haven't spoken with in a while.
December 3: Study your scriptures 15 minutes longer than usual.
December 4: Do an act of service for a family member or friend.
December 5: Offer a prayer of gratitude.
December 6: Study The Living Christ. Memorize one of the sentences. (Study this every day next week and keep memorizing sentences.)
December 7: Listen to or watch The First Presidency Christmas Devotional. Listen for one principle that you can work on. Write down one thing you're going to do this week to live that principle. Share this with your family, and follow up with each other later in the week.
December 8: Write down your beliefs about Christ.
December 9: Brighten a stranger's day.
December 10: Share the Christmas video (the one with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing…) with a friend.
December 11: Think about one way you can magnify your church calling. Put your idea into action.
December 12: Study Matthew chapters 1 and 2.
December 13: Pray for someone in need. Ponder about what you can do to help that person. Do it.
December 14: Visit the elderly or home bound.
December 15: Get to know a neighbor—take him or her a treat.
December 16: Send a note or email to someone.
December 17: Study the lyrics to a Christmas carol.
December 18: Read another article on JesusChrist.lds.org.
December 19: Pray for safety in your or others' Christmas travels.
December 20: Memorize your favorite scripture about Christ.
December 21: Write in your journal about how the Lord has blessed you this year.
December 22: Look at Christmas lights!
December 23: Make gingerbread houses, and think about how you can keep the Christmas spirit in your home year round.
December 24: Study Luke chapter 2.
December 25: Talk to someone about the gift you gave to the Savior this holiday season.

My Eights Lists

Not Sure the Point on this one, but fun:

Eights List

8 TV Shows I like to watch..

The Office
Regis and Kelly

Arrested Developement

Morning News Casts

Friends

QVC Christmas Shoppe
That's So Raven
What Not To Wear

8 Restaurants I like to eat at...

Texas Roadhouse

Red Robin
Burger King
Papa Johns

Subway
Flemmings (once every 10 years)

New York Buritto (or any place similar)

Golden Corral (I admit this proudly)

8 Things that happened today...

Went to work

Called my mom

Ate

took a therapeutic shower (let it all out)

put on my silky PJ's my Mom gave me

bought a rotisserie chicken from Wal-Mart

Listened to Hey Jude from Across the Universe Soundtrack around 10 times (in a row)
Cried a little

8 Things I am looking forward to...

Bubber coming for Thanksgiving

Christmas!

My hair being long again

Being done with Med School

Having my own kids someday, and not taking care of someone elses

Dressing up for Halloween

Sleeping in tomorrow

Bryce getting home

8 Things on my wish list...

A Yorkie dong

Warm fuzzy boots

Warm Fuzzy socks

A volleyball

A computer of my own

New Shoes

For everyone to get along and be happy (my Mom used to say that always, and now I say it)
A New Wardrobe (hey, I can dream)

8 People I tag...(8 because I doubt anyone will do it)
You first eight who read this . . . even though eight people seldom read my blog.

Gordmans Steal

I bought two new purses at Gordmans this weekend. They were 50% off clearance. So the clearance price was $40.00 and it was 50% off of that price. So I got a $90.00 handbag for $20.00. I love Gordmans! Those of you who know me, know that I am a walking Gordmans advertizement. I go there for almost everything. I had to buy one of these for myself and one of them for my Mom who is an avid Kathy Van Zeeland fan. GO TO GORDMANS. The sale is actually over now, but they usually do it again sometime this fall. I hope they do.

Memory Time

I saw this on a few of my friend's blogs, and thought it looked like fun.

Go on. . . . leave a memory!

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you know me a little, or a lot, anything you can remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog, and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see these responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game, and I'll come to your blog and leave a memory about you. If you don't want to play on your blog, or you don't have a blog, then I'll just leave a memory of you in my comments.So, brush out those memory sweepers, and let's have some fun!!

MARCH BOOK CLUB

Hi Girls,

I know it has been a while, but I just wanted to touch base with everyone and say hello. We didn't have a meeting in February, and to be honest I don't know for sure who is supposed to host this month. So, if anyone objects they can let me know, but I will be the host this month. I have chosen a book, and it is a very short read so you will be able to get through it quickly.

The book is called "The Little Prince" by Antione De Saint-Exupery. It was written in French first, and translated into many other languages. So, get the English version! (unless you can read another language, which I know some of you can)

I do have a copy of it, if anyone wishes to borrow it. It is also available at the libraries and is only about $7-9.00 at any book store.

The date is Tuesday March 25th @7:00 p.m.
It will be at my apartment which is: 4222 Grand Ave. #16, Des Moines.
My phone number is: (515)991-9642. Call me!

Anyone is welcome to come. Please let everyone know about it.

Elijah Hancock Fundraiser.

Just to let you know. A fundraiser is being held for the Hancock family. The link to the blog where you can RSVP is on my friends link if you need it.

On December 24th, 2007, Elijah Hancock was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). Following 37 days of hospitalization and many different tests and treatments, Elijah has been able to return home. However, Elijah’s battle is far from over. For the next 3 ½ years, Elijah will continue to receive the necessary care to help him fight his battle with cancer. This fundraiser is dedicated to The Hancock Family to help support them during this trying time.

WHEN:
March 8, 2008

TIME:
6:00 PM

LOCATION:
Regency Building, West Conf. Room
6600 Westown Parkway
West Des Moines, IA 50266

DINNER, RAFFLES, and AUCTION ITEMS!!!!
BRING THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Tagged By Emmers

Tagged By Emmers (my sister Emily)

About My Husband!

What is his name: Bryce David Jolley

How long have you been married? 3 years on August 19th

How old is he? 26. 27 on May 26th, just a week and a couple days after mine. Very convenient and easy to remember, for him especially. He has a really hard time remembering ANYONES birthday. I'm pretty sure you will never forget mine. He once suggested, and still thinks it should be this way, that we switch our birthdays so that his is first. Then he will never forget, and will never get a present that doesn't meet the expectation of the one I give him. WE have mixed them up occasionally.

Who eats more? It really depends. I would say that I eat the same a Bryce. Just like my sister said, I come from a family of SIX kids and I really think that food is not really enjoyed until I am sick to my stomach. So I, on occasion, may eat more than him.

Who said "I love you" first? I DID! I had mentioned to him that I had never told a boy that I loved him before. I think that this detoured him from wanting the be the first one, only to be shot down like all the others. (when I say others, you probably would think that there were many, but no. There was only one.)

Who is taller? Bryce

Who sings better? I do. Bryce sings VERY VERY little. He really doesn't even sing in church. He will humor me somtimes though, and he is pretty good.

Who is smarter? Woah, I really think this an unfair question. When you have a husband in Med School and I teach pre-school children how to dance and do crafts, it is not hard to determine who is the more intellectual. But, as far as smart goes . . . well Bryce is smarter than me too. I am actually not sad about it either. He is my walking encyclopedia. I ask him every question I have, and he almost always has an answer.

Whose temper is worse? Bryce doesn't even have a temper, that I have seen. Except for road rage. Mine doesn't come out as much as my emotional bursts of tears, but it comes out some. He is the more level headed of us.

Who does the laundry? I do, but he really doesn't have any opportunity to. Rather than pay for laundry here at our apt, I do it at the home of the family I nanny for.

Who does the dishes? Both. He actually may do them more. But, I would say that it is pretty much the same. He has adopted my Dad's philosophy, that if I make the food, he does the dishes. But I always help. Vice Versa.

Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Which side is the right side? The right side while your laying on you back, or the right side while looking at it from the foot? Legitimate question.

Who pays the bills? Bryce.

Who mows the lawn? Never had a lawn, but I would like to mow the lawn when we have one. My dad used to have us girls mow the lawn for a little money and I actually enjoyed it. I got the opportunity for a workout, to be in the sunshine for a good tan, and a little money to spend. But I imagine we will share the duty.

Who cooks dinner? Me most of the time. He makes EXCELLENT curry and does all of it. Actually, he always helps me with some part of the meal, no matter what.

Who drives when you are together? BRYCE. I HATE HATE driving. I do so much driving during the day and I hate it still. I will always hate it I think.

Who is more stubborn? I don't know. HUM . . . . . I really don't know.

Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Bryce. He admits it, but he doesn't believe it. He just says that I am right so I will stop arguing. He still thinks he is right, but just wants to get me off his back.

Whose parents do you see the most? It is about even. When we lived in Idaho, his of course. But, now we see them both on major holidays and such.

Who proposed? I did, and he did. I kinda asked him to marry me without really realizing it, but then was so relieved that I did. I asked if he had wanted to marry any of his X's. He said no. I then asked "what about now?" He threw the question back at me, and I said Yes, because I love you. (the first time I had ever said that to a boyfriend.) But he got down on his knees and did that who bit.

Who has more friends? Bryce. My closest friends are my sisters, and there are only three of them.

Who has more siblings? I do. I have 5, he has 3.

Who wears the pants? Who knows.

I tag my Mother. Plus anyone who wishes to be tagged.

What's Your Design Style

Erin Pitcher introduced me to this fun quiz. It tells you what design style you are. And, since I know that we all have a little bit of an interior designer in us, lets all find out what sytle we are. Here is the link. Have fun!

http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/shows_hfys/

I am:
Ethnic Eclectic

Your style is a mix of bohemian chic and contemporary ethnic flair. Whether you travel extensively or shop locally, chances are good that your home is filled with a collection of interesting accessories. By contrast, a neutral color scheme and furniture with simple lines is the best backdrop to accentuate your most colorful pieces. To achieve this mix-and-match design style, look to nature. "The concern with the environment is playing a big role in interior design trends – from colors you find in nature, to high-end natural fibers in wall coverings, to exotic woods and stone being used throughout the home," says Denise Turner, an interior designer in Alta Loma, California. It's all about simple lines and natural materials as a backdrop for your collectables and artwork.

Here are a few of my favorites from the website. You can find your style, then browse the designs that fit into that category.

The bathroom I liked best from the Eclectic style on the website.

Dining Room. I really like the candelabra chandelier. I also enjoy the wicker chairs which Bryce would absolutely dislike.

Simple bedroom with natural colors. I like a bedroom with few fixtures and little clutter. Plus I like the natural colors.

I love the mix of wood with the metal counter here. Who knows whats going on with the gorilla outside the window. That could get scary.

This one reminds me a little of a cabin, but just a little less rustic. I like the huge ceramic tiles on the floor.

Mary Kay for 3 Bucks!

Left Over Mary Kay Products

$3.00 Each

I was once a Mary Kay consultant. I never got really into it, but I got left with a little extra product after all was said and done. I am now selling it for $3.00 per item! Yes, anything you see on this page for $3.00!

If you decide you want an item, or multiple items, please comment on this post and tell me what you want and I will reserve it for you and get it to you however I can. Leave your name, phone number, and e-mail. I will get in touch and give you your product.

Here is a list of what you see:

Foundations:

Medium Coverage Liquid:
-Bronze 708
-Bronze 607
-Bronze 500
-Beige 404 (2)
-Beige 402
-Beige 400 (3)
-Beige 304 (2)
-Beige 302
-Beige 300 (2)
-Ivory 202 SOLD
-Ivory 104 SOLD
-Ivory 100 SOLD

-Beige Concealer

Skin Care:
-Day Solution w/sunscreen spf 15 (3)
-Night Solution (2) 1SOLD
-Intensive Moisturizing Cream

Satin Lips:
-Lip Mask

Makeup:
-Cinnabar Eye Color SOLD
-Vintage Gold Eye Color SOLD
-Chocolate Lip Liner

-Lip Outliner Pencil
-Eye Primer

Misc:
-Foundation Compact w/sponges and mirror


If you want to read about any of these products, click the link below and you can find them on the site.
www.marykay.com

Also, you can call or e-mail me with any questions. I will also check my comments frequently to see if there are any questions there.

I am sorry, but since I am selling these items for so cheap, I will not deliver them to distant locations, or ship them across the country. Therefore, this little store is really only for those of you who live in, or VERY near, Des Moines, Iowa.

Drum Roll Please . . .

I did it! I was getting very anxious to have my hair done, and I knew that if I waited I would change my mind. So, I went to the mall (scary I know) and walked into a Salon and told them to chop it off. The lady who cut my hair asked me several times if I really wanted to do it. She was more nervous than me about it. I actually anticipated being a little sad that all of it was gone, but I'm not. I love it and am more than happy with it. We cut off about 12 inches of my hair, but I didn't get to donate it because of the layers in it. I would all have to be one length, and mine wasn't. That is the only sad part of all of this.

Here is a side view. I would present a back view, but that just seems like a little too much Natali for one post. It ended up being a little longer than anticipated, but better long and too short right!

The Decision . . . I'm Doing It!

Yes, I've decided the time has come for the hair to come off. I have modified what I want though. I decided against the shorty short do of Posh and am going with the mid shorty short do of Katie. So, I called my hairdresser (Jenni Racker) and left a message. When she calls back, my time has come. I am really pumped! HERE IT GOES.

I've been Tagged

I've been tagged by Emily

The rules are as follows:

1. Pick up the nearest book (at least 123 pages)

2. Open the book to page 123

3. Find the fifth sentence

4. Post the next 5 sentences

5. Tag 5 people

"Poor young man! and what is to become of him?"
"What indeed, ma'am! It is a melancholy consideration to be born to the prospect of such affluence! I cannot conceive a situation more deplorable. The interest of two thousand pounds-how can a man live on it!"

From Jane Austen's "Sense and Sensibility"

I tag Ashley, Collette, Shauni, Becca, and Laura Lee.

Me Now . . . For Contrast Purposes

Here is my hair now. I know my pictures are not as hot as Victoria's, but I wanted to show you all how huge of a change this would be if I cut my hair. Ignore the scary red eyes just look at the hair. Remember to vote. Check the side bar and click on yes or no, then submit your vote.

A HUGE POSHY CHANGE yes or no

I really want to chop all my hair off. And this is how I want to cut it. I know that this hair cut is very popular right now, and I guess I am following the crowd, but I just think it is so cute. Yes, I do want it this short too. I know I dont have the blonde hair, but dark brown will look fine this way right? So, my question to all of you is, should I do it, or not? I need some opinions and I want honesty. YES OR NO. Check the side bar and choose one!