Taryn It Up!

Don't Forget To...

2011-12-17T23:46:00.001-05:00

A Super Simple Way to Help the Furbabies at McKamey...

2011-11-21T11:09:00.001-05:00

Help McKamey Animal Center in Chattanooga, TN win $5,000 by voting daily at

http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/shelterchallenge.faces

It's quick, simple & spam-free (they don't even ask for your email address)!

To learn more about how McKamey is improving the lives of homeless animals in our area visit www.mckameyanimalcenter.org

Thank You!

What I Should Be Doing Is... Cleaning My Kitchen.

2011-09-07T20:51:00.000-04:00

My kitchen needs to cleaned, but I just can't seem to force myself to do so. You see, my husband is unemployed at the moment. I think whenever he is working less than me he should by default go into house husband mode: cooking, cleaning, running errands.. No such luck. I'll give him credit, he does cook some delicious meals. Since he made me an amazing grilled cheese for dinner before running off to play darts I guess I'll wash some dishes.

Until I have time to waste again.

Changes...

2011-07-03T14:57:00.000-04:00

Hello friends!

As you can tell by blog name change, I'm going back to not having a theme. Themes just don't work for me, besides it going to be long time before we actually start the adoption process.

Have safe & happy 4th of July!

-Taryn

Semi-Open Adoption

2011-03-27T20:35:00.000-04:00

Today Mitch & I decided we went to do a semi-open adoption. After researching & discussing the relationship we want with the birth family, I believe semi-open will work best for our situation.

Info listed directly from Bethany.org:

The expectant parents choose a family from written, non-identifying profiles.
An adoption agency or third party mediates the contact between the parties before and after the birth.
Birthparents and adoptive parents know each other only by their first names.
Adoptive parents may be present at the birth and may have met the birthparents before the birth.
All correspondence is sent through the adoption agency or third party.
Post-placement meetings are arranged and supervised by the mediator.
Adoptive parents often share the child's pictures and letters with the birthparents, but may also include gifts, videotapes, etc.

Advantages
The advantage of semi-open infant adoption is that both families have the opportunity to develop a relationship over time. A semi-open adoption gives everyone the freedom to communicate with the assistance of a trained mediator.
Perhaps the greatest advantage of this plan lies in the area of sharing information. In semi-open infant adoptions, current information can be passed on with ease, over time. A child's adoption story continues beyond birth, and his or her questions can be answered as they arise.

Disadvantages
At times, adoptive families and birth families feel "married" to the third party.

Reading & Thinking

2011-03-26T13:25:00.000-04:00

This morning I woke up at 7:00 am & didn't really feel like going back to sleep. So I sat in the living room & enjoyed the beautiful storm outside my widow while reading, Forgotten God by Francis Chan (which I finished today). and The Poverty & Justice Bible. I'm terrible at writing book reviews, so all I'm going to say is Forgotten God was great, trust me, read it.

Mitch is at the store right now buying stuff for tonight's dinner. We're having Baked Ziti! My mom, her boyfriend, Tim & my friend, Lyndsey are coming tonight. They'll be our first guests at our new place!

Tonight I want discuss with my mom & Lyndsey at little more our plans to adopt. Anytime you're bringing a new member into the family. You need all support you can get.

How would react if someone close told you they were planning to adopt & they weren't sure of race, age, sex of the child?

Mitch is AMAZING & He's All Mine

2011-03-23T19:04:00.002-04:00

I thought I would take a moment to list a few of the things I love about my husband, Mitch. Not to brag, but just to remind myself of some his wonderful traits.

Mitch is honestly the funniest person I know. He loves to make me laugh especially when I'm mad at him.
I don't wear make up, I hardly ever even brush my hair, I've gained a chunk of weight since our wedding, but he always thinks I'm beautiful & tells me often.
Cuddling is heavenly.
He's sexy.
He can & will cook. I even sing a little ditty when he's in the kitchen, "Cookin' hubby, you're the one. You make my dinner so yum yum!" The man can even season ramen noodles to taste like 5 star pasta.
He really pays attention to what I say I want & gives me the best gifts.
I can't wait to see him as a daddy.
He's my puzzle piece.

Take a moment to tell a loved one, one thing you love about them.

Gotta Find Ourselves a Cute Piggy Bank!

2011-03-19T15:26:00.001-04:00

After being unemployed & job hunting for over a year my husband finally found a job!

Let us take a moment to give thanks & praise to the Lord for employment.

Now we can start saving for our adoption fees & family trip to Disney World!

The plan is to put at least 10% of our income in a saving account after each & every paycheck. Last night I also came up with the idea every time I see something SUPER cute/awesome that I have to have for our child instead of filling up a hope chest; I cost of the item will dropped into savings.

Hello Friends!

2011-03-19T14:14:00.001-04:00

Good Afternoon!

As you can tell from the new title, this blog now has a theme.

I'll be journaling the long adoption process.

Stayed turned.

New Blog: Community Outreach

2011-01-08T17:51:00.000-05:00

Dear Followers,

Enjoying 2011 so far? I am, very much so! Anywho... I have a new blog for the Community Outreach ministry I coordinate. It needs followers. Check it out, please & follow it if you like. Read it here.

Thank you!

Taryn

& The Winner is...

2011-01-06T19:14:00.000-05:00

Crystal!

You can read her blog here.

Enjoy your bow.

Thank you Off Beat Bows!

White Christmas!

2010-12-26T21:53:00.000-05:00

Christmas 2010 will be unforgettable for many reasons, but mainly...

THE SNOW

That's right! Chattanooga was blessed with a WHITE Christmas! This was the view outside my window the morning of December 25th 2010.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway. It ends tomorrow.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T22:44:00.000-05:00

Don't forget to enter the giveaway!

My Daughters

2010-12-20T19:55:00.000-05:00

Just figured I would share a picture of the babies. Fara is the laying on the pillow, Kipper is cuddling with her sister.

To be honest with you, 2010 hasn't been my best year. My heart has been crushed, I've been bullied, lied to & forgotten.

One of the things that kept me going was being able to come home & cuddle with my babies.

Animals love unconditionally always.

GIVEAWAY: Off-Beat Boutique

2010-12-19T20:41:00.000-05:00

My 1st giveaway is from my BFF Kursten Sara.

To win this bow from Off-Beat Bows the rules are simple.
Follow this blog.
Follow Kursten Sara Says so.

Visit her shop.
Comment this post telling me what's favorite bow.
Do the 4 steps & we'll put your name in hat or something.
Contest ends Monday, Dec. 27th.
Good luck!

Funny Photos #7: Fall Pictures

2010-12-13T19:07:00.000-05:00

Mitch & I got Fall pictures taken by Jessica Green of Jessa Green Photography. Of coarse Mitch had to ham it up for a few shots.

He's my dork.

Here's some of the cute ones:

Funny Photo #6: Dancin'

2010-12-07T21:37:00.001-05:00

This is me dancin' while Lyndsey & I celebrated our birthdays. On December 4th I turned 23 & Lyndsey turned 22 on the 6th.

Attempting Mobile Blogging (again)

2010-12-07T13:05:00.001-05:00

Hello! I'm typing this post on my Droid phone (how did we ever live without smart phones?!). If it turns out ok, I'll be posting much more often. *fingers crossed*
Currently I'm sitting in the breakroom at work munching on oyster crackers. Yum.

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Let's Do the Time Warp Again!

2010-11-07T21:48:00.000-05:00

Well Kursten & I did again. It cost us $11.50 for each ticket, 3 hour drive to & from Nashville, nearly 24 hours without sleep. It was so worth it. Last Friday, we celebrated Halloween & the 35th anniversary of Rocky Horror Picture Show by attending a sold out show by Nashville's Little Morals! Little Morals acts out the show while it plays on the movie screen. Audience members enhance the viewing experience by yelling funny things (asshole, slut) and using props (rice, water guns, newspaper, bread, etc.). I've been inspired to put together a Chattanooga group. I'll look into it more in January when things are less busy.
If you haven't seen it. You're missing out. Watch it now, virgin!

Funny Quote: It's Me or the Dog!

2010-10-27T22:30:00.001-04:00

This past weekend Chattanooga was graced with the presence of the lovely Victoria Stilwell star of Animal Planet's It's Me or the Dog. Friday night she was the special guest at McKamey Animal Care & Adoption Center's fundraiser "Paws Around the World." Though we weren't able to attent we didn't miss the fun.

Saturday morning I volunteered at the free event where Stilwell did training demonstrations with McKamey dogs available for adoptions & signed copies of her book, "It's Me or The Dog: How to Have the Perfect Pet." When I got in line to buy mine they were sold out, but a super sweet lady gave me her extra copy. When we tried to give her the $15 she wouldn't accept, so we donated the money. I had it signed for my brother and law in sister & plan on giving it to them for Christmas. (don't worry, I'm 99% sure they don't read my blog.)

Anyway the reason for this whole blog post...

Stilwell started off the demonstrations with an introduction about positive reinforcement. During which she said my new favorite quote.

"Dogs are not out for world domination!"

p.s. I've been reading the book & love it.

Funny Quote: Vegas Baby?

2010-10-17T12:00:00.003-04:00

Our flower girl, Macie's grandma showed her this picture. She said,

Crystal Dawn Photography

"Who's that kid & when did we get married?"

Funny Quote: If I Had $1000 I Wouldn't Be Riding The CARTA Bus

2010-10-10T13:21:00.001-04:00

I've started to ride to public transportion home from work everyday to save money. Chattanooga State students can ride unlimited for free. I get home an hour later. It's not that bad thought, I get on right in front of work, only have to transfer on to one more bus. I get off at the mall which isn't far from home. There's also free wi-fi.

Everybody has been real polite so far, but Friday this guy was talking crazy loud on his phone in a packed bus. He was cracking us all up when all the sudden he blunted out, "If I Had $1000 I wouldn't be riding the CARTA bus!"

Funny Quote: Romancing Bitches

2010-09-04T16:08:00.002-04:00

"my grandpuppy Aurora is in heat(getting fixed Tuesday) and my neighbors dogs are trying to romance the sexy bitch. lol He has brought over five tennis balls, constantly looks in my windows for her, scratches at Auroras door, howls all hours of the nite. hmm maybe some men could take lessons from Patches on how to romance a woman lol"

This was my mom's Facebook status on August 21. Aurora belongs to my brother & his fiancee. The neighbor dog, Patches was at Wally's Friends that Wednesday to get fixed also.

Back when she was young, before she had to worry about puppy love.

Oh Happy Tuesday!

2010-08-24T21:35:00.000-04:00

Today was a good Tuesday. My brother & soon-to-be sister-in-law got all 3 of their dog fixed! You guys know how I feel about Fixin' your Bitch & Taming your Tomcat.

I am once again going to college completely FREE. I'm only taking 9 hours (3 classes) this semester. I've already decided I'm going to ace all of them. You watch.

Mitch is at Mojo Burrito right now buying me 3 paintings of the cutest birds ever. I love Chattanooga! This week I'm going to somehow bribe him into hanging stuff on the walls. Any suggestions?

Writer's Block

2010-08-09T22:07:00.001-04:00

I have all these wonderful ideas that require me to act now & type my little heart out to bring them to life. So I sit my Mac on my lap, put my fingers to keys & ..........nothing.

Yesterday I had the prefect opportunity to be productive. Mitch was gone most of the day. It's was just the girls & me. Then I started thinking about the stuff I have write for the site, the newsletter, the brochures, & the emails, oh the tens of emails. My eyes became heavy, I took a 4 hour nap.

Needless to say, nobody was e-mailed.

I'm just a litte overwhelmed about writing right now. I have so much to work on & I don't know where to start or how to word anything to get my point.

Help. Tips for get over this. Please.

I Am Not My Hair

2010-08-01T16:38:00.001-04:00

Hippie hair is gone.

Yesterday I got my hair & nails done at Hair Benders Internationale.

My hubby LOVES it.

Feels weird, but I love it too.

I got about 7 inches cut off, which I'm going to donate to Locks of Love . 10 inches measured tip to tip is the minimum length needed for a hairpiece, but shorter hair can be sold the to manufacturer & it still greatly helps to reduces wig costs.

Only About 28 Hours & 8 Minutes Til the Weekend!

2010-07-15T12:23:00.000-04:00

Good Afternoon!

How is everybody? I just realized I have a super busy weekend planned.

Tomorrow. I meeting up with a girl I'm mentoring though GoodGuides. We're going to hang out at the library, talk, maybe play a board game. Then I going on dinner date with the hubby & we're grocery shopping after.

Saturday. Lyndsey has to work as a Jo at a Chatt State event so I'm going to chill with her during that. It's Fish Fry! Yum! I hope.

Sunday. Church. Hopefully seeing Kursten. Then we're attending a music festival/benefit for Sandy the Flower Man.

Life is short. Go make fun plans for the weekend if you haven't already.

PSA: Spam for Breakfast

2010-06-25T10:37:00.002-04:00

Good Morning!

Just a quick little public service announcement for any rookie bloggers out there. This here is a scam & most likely a virus. It was sent to Gmail account & was waiting for me in my inbox. Don't click the link.

Hi there blogger!

Just visited your "Raising Furkids" blog and I was super impressed by its design and content. We just opened up our community Lookville for beta testing. It's a place for people to have discussions, share tips, and ask questions about fashion. Currently, memberships are by invitation only and I would love to have you on it! Please accept this invitation if you're interested: http://lookville.com/signup?c=BLGUS&ref=fb_us

And we would love to hear your feedback.

Ciao!
- Daphne G.

Lookville.com | Fashion Discussions. Ask, Answer and Discover | 1045 Missino St #433, San Francisco, CA, 94103 | You will not receive further emails from Lookville, however, u can click here to remove your email from our database

Yes I do have a blog calling "Raising Furkids." I haven't done anything with since it was created, it has the default background & title, no public content.

Have a great day & keep your computer safe.

-Taryn

Update:
I clicked the link while on my Mac & it's legit. No worries, click all you want.

To Type or Not To Type?

2010-06-17T20:10:00.000-04:00

Dear friends,

Do you guys censor yourself when blogging? I mean, do you ever feel the need to share something, but hesitate, because it's too personal for the internet? I am so tempted to tell you guys what's really going on in my life right now. It seems like it would feel good to get it off my chest & be a more entertaining post if I typed out my problems. Pondering how to deliver the details, makes me realize that there's no way to word this with out making me like look a fool & Mitch a jerk. Although I shouldn't sharing family business with strangers I want to so bad. I want to tell my story, so someone can tell me I'm not the only one who has made this mistake.

Just so your imagination doesn't run too wild, I'll tell you this much. Mistakes were made & current events have me returning from Bonnaroo technically homeless. Mitch, the girls (my dogs) and I staying with Mitch's parents for the time being in the middle of nowhere.

Maybe I'll get brave & post more or get smart & delete this post.

-Taryn

P.S. All the cell phone videos from Roo just look like a blur. So I won't be sharing them.

View on the Way to Roo

2010-06-15T23:37:00.003-04:00

This was our view while waiting in line to enter Bonnaroo. Great Stage Park where the festival is located was a cow farm up until a few years ago.

Thank God Kursten's little car survived the trip.

We only took a few more pictures & they aren't worth posting we looked nasty after days in the sun. I have videos to share tomorrow as soon I can figured out how to get them from my phone to my computer.

Change in Plans

2010-06-14T22:32:00.004-04:00

Planned on leaving Wednesday night, but left Thursday morning.
Planned on mobile blogging the whole time I was there, but I had NO service while on the farm.
Planned on enjoying a much cooler festival, but the forecast was wrong I think it only rained once for like 5 minutes & it was hotter 90 degrees all weekend.
Planned on laughing at Conan O'brien, but the comedy tent stayed packed.

Even though things didn't always go as planned this Bonnaroo was definitely one of my favorites. Being my 4th & Kursten's 2rd we didn't make rookie mistakes.

Well... I've got to get to bed. I'll post videos & pictures tomorrow.

Bonnaroo Bound Tomorrow

2010-06-08T16:13:00.000-04:00

Kursten & I have decided we're leaving for Bonnaroo tomorrow rather than Thursday morning. There's a caravan leaving Chattanooga Wednesday night & we plan on following it. Kursten is nervous about this, because the packet that came with the tickets said they're not opening the gate until noon Thursday. I have reassured her they lied. Some of Thursday's events are scheduled at noon. Plus I've spoken with Bonnaroo veterans that say they get there on Wednesday every year.

Today I'm going to Dayton (where Kursten & my family live) for a planning committee meeting. After the meeting, I'm going shopping for ALL the food we're eating while. I'm NOT wasting money on food this year!

I've finally finished my 1st draft of our Bonnaroo schedule. I'll have to get Kursten's input tonight. I'm so excited! I've made notes all over it so I don't forget anything.

Blogging on the Go?

2010-06-07T20:01:00.001-04:00

After about 4 failed attempts, I read the directions & now I think I
have it figured out. Here's the post I've sent, sent, sent. I'm
currently testing out the blog via text feature for 2 reasons. 1.
Bonnaroo is this Thurs.-Sun. I want to keep all 13 of my lovely
followers updated on all things ROO. 2. My laptop is on the other
side of the apartment & I'm lazy, ya know.
Oh Have I told lately Kursten is my hero? Course not, I haven't
blogged in like 13,468 years, because they've actually given me work
at work. Money has been tight & I couldn't afford my ticket. So she
bought mine. KK saves the day!
Just the thought of not being able to go nearly brings me to tears.
Roo is my piece of heaven on earth. It's my one & only vacation I get
a year. Thank you again, Kursten.

Well Hello There!

2010-05-19T16:13:00.000-04:00

I have some videos to share with you from this weekend, but my internet hasn't been working at home, so I haven't been able to upload them. Let's hope Mitch fixed it today, so I can post them for your viewing pleasure. My weekend was awesome, but I'll hold off telling you about until I have videos to match.

Last night I finished reading The Lovely Bones as soon as I closed the book. Mitch pops in the Blu Ray ( He hates when I call them DVDs, he's a total geek.) & it wouldn't work. So now we have to wait on Netflix to send another one. Lame.

Here enjoy the cuteness since I really have nothing to type about.

Sisterly Love

We Love Lyndsey

2010-05-12T20:01:00.001-04:00

This Saturday was Lyndsey's graduation. We were 10 minutes late & locked out, because Memorial Auditorium was packed. So we made this video while waiting.

My homegirl Lyndsey Danean Fairbanks received her Associate of Science Degree, Associate of Applied Science Degree-Media Technologies-Web Based Design & Certificate of Informations Systems Technology.

We celebrated my lookin' cute & dancin' the night away.

Funny Photo #5: Ramp to Nowhere

2010-05-10T08:00:00.001-04:00


Well, it's kinda more sad than funny. The only ramp in this shopping complex was leading into a post. It's nearly impossible to see, but on the wall there is an old school handicap sign.

A Not So Awesome Post

2010-04-29T10:03:00.000-04:00

There hasn't been much to blog about lately.

All I do work, read, watch Netflix & sleep.

Right now work's okay, boring thought.

I'm currently reading, The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. I'm over half way finished & I've loved it so far.

On Netflex the hubby & I have been watching My Name is Earl. Which is a pretty funny show. I think I enjoy it so much, because the show is about Earl checking things off his list & you guys know how I love lists.

& well there's not much to type about sleep.

I'm just completely uninspired. Life is just blah. I've decided the rest of my week will be full of awesome. So stay tuned!

Speaking of awesome, read this 1000 Awesome Things. It's awesome.

'Cause a Man's Place is in the Kitchen

2010-04-19T15:18:00.001-04:00

Oh man, am I spoiled. I've had some pretty great weekends here lately, but this past one was especially good.

Friday. Mitch & I went had a super yummy dinner at Mojo Burrito. Then we stayed home for the rest of the night & watched Super Size Me & Food Inc. I want to send a HUGH thank you out to Rachel at Memories of Mine to Thine for writing this post. Read it & watch Food Inc. Thank you, thank you Rachel! Your blog has changed the way my husband, our dinner guests & I eat. note: She also makes beautiful dolls.

Saturday. After watching Food Inc. we just couldn't go back to eating "normal" food. I'm telling you it's like eating the forbidden fruit you just can't see food the same way again. So we ran out to Greenlife, which luckily is the closest grocery store & picked up the items we needed for dinner.
We had my sister, Ashley over for dinner. Mitch slaved in the kitchen making homemade fried ravioli. When I say homemade, I mean homemade. He made the raviolis & sauce from starch. While he was in there being the BEST HUSBAND EVER, Ashley & I watched Zach Galifianakis: Live at the Purple Onion. Dinner was amazing, of course.

Sunday. Mitch & I have been looking for a home church & I think we may have finally found one. Thank God! The sermon was mainly about gluttony and over eating & eating things that aren't good for us. AGAIN with the food! I swear it's a sign.

After church I went to the 4 Bridges Art Festival with my BFF, Kursten & our Britney-loving friend, Jesse. Kursten is a future art teacher, Jesse is studying fashion photography & I'm just a admirer of all-things-pretty. It was very interesting. There were many, many different types of artists from all over the country. While there I bought a humming bird feeder for my mama & 2 small prints for my guest room.

Also I got lots of free postcards. E-mail me your mailing address & I'll send you one!

Another Award, No Lie

2010-04-16T18:55:00.000-04:00

Rules: List 10 facts that aren't common knowledge & pass it on to 6 deserving bloggers.

Thank you Haley from Wide Eyed Smilin.

I have a tattoo of 3 stars behind my ear. A former friend's brother did it for free at his house. I hate it, I never show it off. Sometimes I forget I have it. I've been meaning to get it covered, but no idea what to get done. Any suggestions?

I've gained a lot of weight since getting married & most of it is going to my belly. Whenever I see someone I use to know from high school I always afraid they're going to think I'm pregnant.

When I was in the 5th/6th grade I wanted to be a dance & cheerleading choreographer. I would teach dance classes to my little sister, Hayley in our bedroom.

In the 7th grade I was really into magic & witch craft. There was a group of us girl that would read books about spells, potions & all that jazz. I gave it up after realizing I didn't have any actual "powers."

Take note, I want this to be common knowledge. I HATE surprise visits. My day has to be planned out or I go a little crazy. I like to know ahead of time how we're going to entertaining our guest. Besides I can't get Mitch to help until we know someone is coming home, so our house is usually messy.

I briefly thought about becoming a nun before meeting Mitch. I love doing charity work, I would have been happy helping others & living a humble life.

I am a college drop out, but I plan on going back in January if not sooner.

A Pre-Life Crisis

Stephanie Ann

Turn into Radio Carly

Sorry about only passing along to 3. My husband wants to stop blogging & start cuddling.

A Letter To You

2010-04-15T13:45:00.000-04:00

Dear Readers,

I hope that you all are doing well & have been able to enjoy this lovely weather. I love & appreciate that you guys take time out of your day to read whatever I've decided to share with the world. Sorry about the typos that litter every post. I'm sure there will be a few in this very post. I told Mitch I'm going to start making him proof them for me. I just never notice them until after I've clicked publish.

Tuesday I made a bad typo. In an email to VP of Retail Services I accidentally called Goodwill a theft store. He responded, "Taryn, please help me clarify one point. I hope you meant to write THRIFT store, not THEFT store?" Let's hope he got a laugh out of that.

I can't believe I've been away from Blogger for 10 days! In that time, I've been given an award (I'll share in the next post), gained a new follower, (Hi Carly), was pictured here and apparently was the only person not blogging. Hopefully I can get caught up on what all my favorite bloggers are doing.

Well, I have to get going. I plan to have many new stories for you guys to enjoy up next week.

Your friend,
Taryn

P.S. This is blog post number 50!

5 Years of Goodwill

2010-04-06T08:00:00.003-04:00

"First Paycheck" by Normen Rockwell

"Friends of Goodwill, be dissatisfied with your work until every handicapped and unfortunate person in your community has an opportunity to develop to his fullest usefulness and enjoy a maximum of abundant living."
- Rev. Edgar Helms (Goodwill Founder)

Today begins my fifth year as an employee of Chattanooga Goodwill Industries. So, I'll start off this post with my lucky dress story.

It was March 2006 I was a junior in high school and Prom was approaching fast. I was working as a volunteer at my aunt Lisa's Assisted Living every Saturday. I enjoyed it very much. Mostly I played games, watched movies & talked with the residents. Although the job was very rewarding, it didn't pay much as in, nothing. In an attempt to improve my cash flow I decided to put in application at our local Goodwill store. I filled it out, put down my volunteer job as my only work experience & hand it to the manager.

That's when my Mama saw it; my Prom dress. The beautiful rose red strapless dress. It has hanging on ceder block wall behind the cash register. $24 & it was mine.

What was so lucky about it?

I got the job!
I didn't go to prom.
Won Jr. Miss Wheelchair TN in it.

Since landing the job I've held many positions with Goodwill: Sales Associate in Dayton, Marketing Intern, Sales Associate in Hixson, & currently Receptionist.

GW will always be very special to me. They give me a job when no one else would & allowed to grow as employee. I've met some of my closest friends & made some wonderful memories these past 5 years.

Animal Friendly Blogger

2010-04-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

I did it, you guys! I made up my own award. Well, I haven't came across one like it yet, so I'm almost sure it's new.

The picture of the cat was taken my mama. It's of the late great Justin James. Yes, he had only one eye. He lost it in a fight with a possum about 10 years ago.

The dogs are my furbabies Kipper & Ferra. The bird lives at the Nashville Zoo. I went there a few years with my daddy & sisters.

If you accept this award...

Show it off.
Share a story and/or a picture of the critters in your life.
Thank the person that gave it to you.
Pass it on to other animal friendly bloggers.
Contact the bloggers you've picked and let them know about the award.

And the winners are...

Puddle of Ink

Goodwill Assistance Dog Academy

GO LOCO!!

2010-04-03T23:07:00.001-04:00

Mitch & I have just returned from the Chattanooga Locomotion game against Atlanta Xplosion & we're chillin' at home until the after-party at Images.

Loco is a women's full contact professional football team. This was their first game of the season. They'll be home again April 24th & we can't wait to see them beat the Tennessee Valley Tigers from Huntsville, AL.

Although they lost this one we had a really good time. I spent the whole game telling Mitch my high school football memories. Of course none of these were about the game. Back then we just went to games to hang out & watch the band. I was a dork.

Dreams...

2010-03-31T22:18:00.001-04:00

For my 16th birthday my Mama gave me a Dream Dictionary. My mom, sisters & I use to read it all the time. It has been neglect for quite some time, but I think I need to dust it off & open. Last couple nights have brought some odd visions.

Night before last I had a dream about Bonnaroo. Yes I dream about Bonnaroo, but only every once in a while. All my Roo dreams have the same theme. We're at Bonnaroo & somehow we've managed to miss the whole thing. When we finally emerge from our tent there's only one set left. I believe I have these dreams, because our first year Mitch & I decided to take a nap before the night's last set & we ended up not waking up until the morning.

My most recent Bonnaroo dream went like this. My brother, Cody was there with us. He was throwing up sick the whole time. Everybody that was there with me said that we had to stay in the tent to take care of him & they would not let me outside even when I begged & cried . By the time he got to feeling better it was over.

Thanks a lot Cody! That's the last festival you'll be attending in my dreams.

That's not the strange dream. Last night I dreamed...

It's a hot summer day. The sun is beaming down on me. Mitch & I are on a road trip to where, I don't know. Kipper & Ferra were with us just sitting in the backseat, behaving, but wait that's not the weird part. We stop at rest stop & Mitch gets out of the car with the girls on their leashes walks them over to people walking thier dogs & strikes up a conversation. I'm just sitting there with the doors open & the car off.

I look over & realize Mitch is only wearing boxers & a white t-shirt. Nobody else seems to notice. I jump out of the passenger seat & demand he get back in the car & put some clothes on. He looks at me like I'm being ridiculous, points at a guy & said, "He's wearing his boxers." I scream, "No Mitch those are shorts, the man is wearing shorts!" In respond "Taryn, relax it's not a big deal." "Yes it is! You're out in public in your boxers!" Right then a naked guy runs right in front of me. I give up the fight.

Funny Photo #3: I Like Princesses

2010-03-29T10:00:00.003-04:00

This is on my desk at work. The guy that worked in this position before me was a much older single man. Here's to hoping he finds his princess.

Obedience School?!

2010-03-28T21:03:00.000-04:00

My girls are brats, like almost as bratty as Marley from Marley & Me. It so embarrassing when we try to take them to the park on a beautiful day. All the other dogs (big & small) are just walking claiming with their family having a good ole time. Not our wild pair, they're banking, jumping, pulling on my husband so hard his arms about to come out of their sockets. We're there less than 15 minutes & miserable. The dogs are coughing from pulling, Mitch is whining & I can't walk them at all. The other day, Kipper flipped my chair completely over & I landed hard on the sidewalk. My back still hurts a little.

I am not staying inside all Spring, the weather wonderful & we need the exercise. The girls are in their crates all day while we are at work. So we try to take them with us when & wherever we can. Our choices are becoming limited though since they act two year old hyped up on Mountain Dew & Pixie Stixs. Well... I'm not the kinda girl that just sits around & whines. I'm a go-getter, a doer, a pusher, ya know. This problem is going to be solved. People are going to see my dogs & say, "Wow, Did the dog whisper dog visit?!"
Note: I would be very happy if Cesar Millan came to visit. He's muy, muy caliente.

How do I plan to accomplish this, you ask. Where I work we have an assistance dog training program & the director, she's genius. I told my issues & she's given me very helpful tips & emailed me a long, but useful training manual. I've been studying it & working with the girls. We're slowly, but surely learning together.

Although obedience training tedious & difficult sometimes; I'm beginning to enjoy it. I've been considering pursuing it as a career if I can make any progress with Kipper & Ferra.

Funny Photo #4: Viva la Hello Kitty!

2010-03-26T13:27:00.000-04:00

Kursten & I LOVE Hello Kitty! Kursten's first & only (so far) tattoo is a Hello Kitty head. Today she is at the Roane State Art/Music Showcase/Festival thingy. Anyways she saw this work of art & text me this picture. Let me tell you, I would to pay top dollar to have this in my living room; but Mitch would hate it & the dogs would attack it.

Why I Use a Wheelchair

2010-03-24T12:00:00.000-04:00

I was born premature and developed Cerebral Palsy

I have the Spastic CPSpastic cerebral palsy is the most common type of cerebral palsy. It affects about 80 percent of all children with cerebral palsy. Children with this type of cerebral palsy have one or more tight muscle groups which limit movement. If muscle tone is too high or too tight, the term spastic is used to describe the type of cerebral palsy. Children with spastic cerebral palsy have stiff and jerky movements because their muscles are too tight. They often have a hard time moving from one position to another. They may also have a hard time holding and letting go of objects. If your child has spastic cerebral palsy, it is because he or she has damage to the part of the brain that controls voluntary movements.

In the United States today, more people have cerebral palsy than any other developmental disability, including Down syndrome, epilepsy, and autism. About two children out of every thousand born in this country have some type of cerebral palsy. Studies have shown that at least 5000 infants and toddlers and 1,200 - 1,500 preschoolers are diagnosed with cerebral palsy each year. In all, approximately 500,000 people in this country have some degree of cerebral palsy.

-CerebralPalsyFacts.com

FYI If You're Ever Around Someone With a Disability

2010-03-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

1. If you want to know why someone is in a wheelchair just ask. If you're adult do not use the phase, "What's wrong with you" that makes you sound really stupid and I will laugh at you. Please don't yell at your children if they ask someone why they are in a wheelchair.

2. Please don't use the handicap bathroom stall if there's other stalls available. It's sucks when you have to pee really bad and all the stalls are empty accept for the only one you can use.

3. Do not just come up behind someone and start pushing their wheelchair. I've had lots of people do this thinking they're helping, but it's really rude. Think of it this way, it's like you are going up to someone and just picking them and carrying them. Trust me, if you do that to a stranger they are not going to listen to your reason that you were giving their legs a rest.

4. Don't let your children touch a stranger's wheelchair, it's very rude and unsafe. I've always worried that a child was going to get hurt playing with my chair. If they start pushing me they could run me into someone/something or fall/get hit if I don't know they are back there and I move my chair. If they play with wheels they could hurt their fingers. One thing that really bugs me is people letting babies pull up on my wheels. Wheels roll, they could fall and wheels touch the dirty ground all day and babies put their hands in their mouth.

5. If you own a business and you want Lyndsey ( my shopping buddy who is also in chair) and I to spend money there, you best be sure we can get though the door and around the place.

6. Don't put a ramp up that's at a nearly 90 degree and act all handicap accessible.

7. Wheelchair basketball isn't the only wheelchair sport. There's wheelchair tennis, soccer, racing, water- skiing, rugby (murderball) and tons more.

8. You shouldn't make car noises while pushing someone over the age of 10. I will laugh at you.

9. Don't assume a person with a disability can't speak for them self. When speaking to someone who is deaf look at them not their sign language interpreter.

10. Don't pet or play with assistance dogs while they are working. Their owner needs them to ready when needed. Assistance dog get petted and played with at home.

11. Don't act surprised when someone with disability has a job or children, it's really insulting. Most of the people in wheelchair I know work, are highly educated and have families.

12. Not everyone with a disability collects Social Security.

13. Do not use a handicap tag/parking space that you don't need. If you do, I hope your car falls apart. When walking with my walker I need to be closer to the door. There's been times when there was not available spaces and I've nearly passed out walking so far.

Please look up the Americans with Disabilities Act, especially if you own a business or work with people with disabilities. www.ada.gov

If you know someone with a disability or you yourself need help getting a job, medical equipment or an assistance dog. Goodwill can help. www.goodwillchatt.org, call (423) 629-2501

If you have any questions about disabilities ask me, if I can't answer it, I most likely know someone who can.

Have anything to add, please let me know.

I have a funny story that happen to me that goes along with EVERYTHING mentioned in this list. Just ask, they're all good for a laugh.

I have feet. Most people in wheelchairs have them too. HaHa...

Disability Awareness Week

2010-03-22T12:00:00.007-04:00

I know, I know it isn't actually Disability Awareness Week, but it is over here at Taryn It Up! Why you ask, I don't know I just felt like sharing some old blog posts & figured heck let's make a whole week of it.

Now other than this week, you won't read about me being in a wheelchair much. I just mention it from time to time. Not because I'm ashamed or anything. It's just that when you're in a wheelchair your whole life, there's not a lot to say about it, because it's all old news to you.

Besides from what you guys have read of my blog having Cerebral Palsy hasn't gotten in the way of living a normal life.

If you any question or suggestions, any at all, don't be shy e-mail them to me.

taryn.balwinski@gmail.com

Me (left) at GoFest after winning Jr. Ms. Wheelchair TN

Peanut Butter Doggy Treats

2010-03-21T18:06:00.001-04:00

Lately I've been attempting to train my dogs. All we've seemed to almost master is sit. Their regular dog food was enough motivation for Ferra, but Kipper. Quick tip: When training try to use your dog's usual food before buying treats. This will work with most dogs, Kipper's just a brat.
Last night I baked Peamutt Butter treats from The Doggy Bone Cookbook by Michele Bledsoe. I rolled the dough into tiny balls, because when you're using treats for training it's got to be something they can eat quickly. So you can continue training without them getting distracted.


Before going into Oven

Mitch & I tried one they were really bland, but the girls love 'em.

Peamutt Butter

1/4 cup peanut butter

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 cup water

2 1/4 cup whole wheat flour

1 cup oatmeal

Preheat 375. In large bowl combine peanut butter, oil & water. Gradually add flour, then oatmeal. Roll dough to 1/4" thickness & cut with cookie cutter. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375.

My 1st Blog Award!

2010-03-18T23:34:00.000-04:00

Today I received my very 1st blog award. This is super exciting! I always was a little jealous when other bloggers would get awards & I even thought about cheating & just making one up. Just kidding. Sort of.

The lovely & talented Miss Haley at Wide Eyed Smilin gave it to me. What makes this even cooler is that Haley is my first official 'follower.' Before she came along my only followers were myself & my husband. I returned the favor & followed her. Which I glad I did, we have a lot in common we're both animal lovers, hippies, 22, aspiring entrepreneurs & we have the same taste in books. Plus I just won my first giveaway at her blog!

The rules of this awards are as follows:
Thank the person who gave you this award.
Share 7 things about yourself.
Pass the award along to 15 bloggers who you have recently discovered and who you think are fantastic!
Contact the bloggers you've picked and let them know about the award.

Junior Miss Wheelchair Tennessee 2007
I want to make enough money, so Mitch to can be a house-husband.
I'm seriously considering studying to be dog trainer.
I'm adopting all my future children.
I wanna play roller derby.
Today my alarm just decided not to go off. It's set & has worked fine all week, but not this morning. I was 20 minutes late to work. You let me down, Hello Kitty!
I've dropped my phone 9865423 times during it's lifetime, the screen hasn't cracked once. Mitch dropped it today in the parking lot & the screen is shattered & completely unusable it.

The ever so lovely Christina at Cherry Bomb. She's using her blog to share funny videos, sexy pictures & the adventures of gardening.
Doggy Mommy Crystal at Story of my Life Crystal is a newly wed Air Force wife & former GW (Goodwill) chica.
The funny Adrienne at Age of Reason. She's joining the Peace Corps! Which something I've always wanted to do.
Megan at Somewhat Voluble. She is fabulous photography & writer.
Amber at ...Social Butterfly. She makes everyday life interesting. Plus I was just featured on her blog.
Author Janell at My First Blovel. It's a novel is progress, it's a blog, it's a blovel.
CHIMCHUM where there's poetry & cuteness.
Alex at The Passion Theory is a really interesting photographer. My favorite post.
AnnieBellie is a wonderful photography blog of a mother & nature lover.

Sorry I couldn't come up with all 15 to pass this on to. I'm still kinda new to the blog world & quite sleepy, so the list stops here. Enjoy your award! Nighty, nighty.

Lucky Dog/Unlucky Groom

2010-03-17T22:06:00.002-04:00

Lucky Dog

This time last year Mitch & I were looking to adopt our first furkid. The day before St. Patrick's Day we rescued Kipper.

This is her on her first night with us.

Unlucky Groom

The guy that caught the garter at our wedding was married 3 months & 2 weeks later on St. Patrick's Day. And sadly was divorced some months later.

All Bloggy

2010-03-16T20:20:00.000-04:00

In July I officially started this blog, but I didn't actually start blogging until January. I'm lovin' it; I have become addicted to reading & writing blogs. Taryn It Up! was started as a way for me to practice writing & to document my life, but it's much more fun than that.

Last week my love story was featured on ...Social Butterfly. If you like to share your love story, I would love to read it. E-mail it to Amber & she might feature it.
Also this weekend I won the giveaway at Wide Eyed Smilin. I can't wait to get my book in mail so I can dive in.

Lesson Learned: Always Send a Thank You

2010-03-14T21:38:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I was attempting to organize our guest room when I found a box full of Thank You cards from our wedding that I had written out, addressed & forgot to send. In my family not sending out thank yous is a sin.

And karma got me.

While looking thought my wedding cards, I found a $20 check, kept looking & found TWO $50 checks & wait. for. it...
an $100 check!!

So the moral of this story is SEND OUT THANK YOU CARDS or you'll find $220 you can't use & cry.

Getting my First Tattoo & Dumped via Email

2010-03-10T21:28:00.001-05:00

On June 9, 2006 my friends Melissa, Adrien, Chris & I packed into Chris' van and headed out to Chattanooga for my former best friend, Melissa's 18th birthday. At the time I lived in little old Dayton. So this was kinda a big deal, I didn't get out much back then.

When I left my mom's we were planning on getting a Scaffold piercing. By the time we arrived at the tattoo parlor about a hour later, plans had changed to Melissa & I getting matching tattoos on the back of our necks. Heck a small tat was $15 cheaper than the piercing anyways.

We were all gitty with excitement this being my first tattoo & Melissa's first legal tattoo. We picked out our cherries which I know, I know are so stereotypical, but I think cute. & got tattooed up with no thought to how my mama would feel about it. After that we stopped at the mall, then we ate at that pizza buffet that I hate & headed home.

Note: I hate any & all buffets. Even I word "buffet" sounds nasty to me, last time I was at Chinese buffet I puked. Sorry about that, now back to the story.

On the way home reality sank in and I began to worry about my parents reaction, but I didn't anticipate it being that bad. After all I was 18 & a half , had a job, made okay grades, didn't do drugs, drink or have sex. They couldn't be that mad. Boy was I ever wrong.

As soon as my friends & got in the dining room I showed my parents my new ink. They thought I was joking & my step dad rubbed it with his thumb, hard. When they realized it wasn't coming off they went psycho in front of my friends. First they screamed at me things like "We're not paying for your wedding" (wasn't even think of marriage at the time) & other senseless mean statements. Then my mom called the tattoo parlor & screamed,"why would you give a tattoo to a girl in a wheelchair?!" Which hurt my feelings for a long time. Being in a wheelchair had nothing to do with anything. When the people at the parlor smarted off to her phone she threw the phone at the wall (making a dent). Then kicked my friends out.

My weekend from Hell was only beginning.

After over an hour of them screaming I went to my room & called my boyfriend at the time & gave him brief run down of the days events right before getting off the phone he told me to check my MySpace e-mail. I said I would & I went to sleep. So the next morning, I wake up, get ready & decide to check my MySpace account before heading to work. Thinking I would read a nice e-mail that would put me in a better mood where he was apologizing for being so distant lately. Surely he wouldn't dump me in an e-mail, I had a friend that was dumped that way months ago & he said he would never do something like that. Well he did. To make matters worst he had sent it the morning before. I had talked to him twice since then; before going to Chattanooga & after getting back home like we were still together. He had already ended in it! Here I am, just talk, talk, talk, I love you, I miss you, I love you.
I felt so stupid.

My parents were super pissed at me, my first love just broke my heart via a MySpace message & it was time for me to work 8 hours. After calling him crying & cussing, I sucked it up & went to work, 'cause that's what bitches with tattoos do, they get that dirt off their shoulder & do work son. No really I worked hidden in the back processing shoes all day only bursting into tears 10 times during my shift.

This story doesn't end bad. I'm still the goodie-two-shoes of the family. My ex & I both are very happily married to other people. It's a funny story & I'm not bitter about it anymore.

Funny Photo #2: A Ghost!

2010-03-08T08:00:00.004-05:00

Playing with photobooth the other day. In a hurry to get a picture of Fara before she moved, I didn't realize my face was in the way.

MaDM: It's Puppy Season!

2010-03-08T07:00:00.002-05:00

Last night I created a fan page on FaceBook, check it out. Anyways it's called, "Fix Your Bitch, Tame Your Tom Cat!" I know, I know not a very nice thing to say, but I needed something that would get everybody's attention. It's my attempt to spread awareness about the importance of fixing your pet.

Please take the time to read my original post on this issue.

Goals for This Week...

2010-03-07T20:01:00.001-05:00

I've been super lazy for far too long, just sitting around bitchin' about stuff. Well, this week I plan on being productive, fixing what's bothering me & stop complaining.

Our Messy Apartment. We moved in late January & most of our junk is still in boxes. The things that are unpacked are just piled up everywhere. I hoping to get some major cleaning, organizing & decorating done the week, because my friends are coming over for 2nd Sunday Movie/Lunch & I want to be able to show off the place since a lot of them haven't seen it yet.

Rushing to Work. I hate having to rush in the morning. Not having time to eat breakfast and going to work hungry puts us both in a grumpy mood. Hopefully I won't keep sleeping though the alarm. Also to save time I'm going to pick out my outfit & accessories the night like I use to in high school.

Wasting Money on Eating Out. Pass couple weeks all we've done is eat out for dinner. The food's always good & filling, but I don't even want to know how much money we're wasting. Plus my husband, Mitch is an amazing cook. It's just sinful to waste that talent. Tonight I'm making this week's menu & we're going shopping tomorrow.

Gaining Weight. Before I got married I worked out more & ate less. Now it's the exact opposite & it shows. So we need to come up with a new routine, fast. I can't afford to buy a whole new wardrobe, just because I couldn't say no to the cupcakes.

This picture of heaven was taken by somebody at Chattanooga Cupcakes.

My Secret Revealed

2010-03-05T23:57:00.001-05:00

One of my GW chicas, Jessica Green told me about this blog called PostSecret. PostSecret is on going art project where homemade postcards that are containing secrets are anonymously sent to Frank Warren. Some of these postcards are selected to be posted on the blog which updates every Sunday, published in books or displaced in art exhibits.
I checked it out & instantly fell in love. Every Sunday I check PostSecret, some make me cry, some me laugh, and a few make me want to puke. One Sunday I took Mitch I wanted the newest book. Months later I came home on birthday & was surprised with ALL 5! Yes, my husband is that good!
Fast forward about a month & I see that Frank Warren is doing a book tour. Mitch & I decide to go when he visits ETSU which 4 hours away. We planned to take Kursten & Jessica since they're such big fans, but keep it a secret until day. Since this is one of biggest secrets I've ever kept, I had to send a postcard.

Jessica ended up riding with her husband which is a good thing, because Mitch, Kursten & I were an hour late and missed most of the presentation. Even though we were super late & I had to work all day after getting home at 2:00 am. Kursten & I had a great time crossing number 1 & 2 off the list.

Writing Wednesday #1: To My Future Children

2010-03-03T10:42:00.000-05:00

When I started this blog I thought it would be a great way to improve my writing skills. That has yet to happened. It seem all my posts lately have become pictures with long captions. Which is okay, but I need a little challenge every once in a while. So I've decided find or come up with writing prompts, write, then attempt to post one every Wednesday. The first couple prompts I plan on using I found on 20 Something Writers which I discovered on Somewhat Voluble.

My first assignment is make a list of 5 things that I would want my children to know.

Charity & Volunteering is Important
I volunteer often for companies that are doing something I support. I believe it's important to donate time to better the community. Plus volunteering can help make your resume/application look good when if you have little job experience.
Family Members Don't Have To Have Matching DNA
If/when we have children they will be adopted. So they need to understand that just because we are not "blood related" we're still family.
There's Safe Ways To Have Fun
I have never tried any drugs. Any other risky activities like "dusting." I know, know lots of kids smoke pot when they were younger & they are perfectly fine now. I've always thought drugs were more trouble than they're worth. Beside you never know if your kid is going to be a casual smoker or a full time pot head.
Education is Important
You can't even get your foot in the door without a degree. Getting a degree right after high school will save you so much stress & money later in life.
Play Outside
Kids are playing outside less & less now a days. I want my children to enjoy the sunshine & go with me to park to walk the dogs.

It's Snowing Again!

2010-03-02T11:45:00.001-05:00

Good Morning!

It's snowing again. In the 12 years I've lived in Tennessee I don't think it has ever snowed this much. Right now I'm sitting at the office looking out window & watching it fall, fall, fall. Earlier the flakes were so big & fluffy, they looked like feathers. They have yet to close the office which is a surprise, last 2 times we closed early for snow we had much less.

Here's a crappy cell phone picture of beauty.

Funny Photo #1: Chinchilla Driving

2010-03-01T14:40:00.005-05:00

This picture was taken by my mom. This is my brother Cody's chinchilla.

Enjoy.

5:30 am on a Saturday!?

2010-02-28T21:10:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I tried to recall the last time I had been up so early on a Saturday & I think never. Yeah sure I have stayed up that late during the weekend. Never had I woke up at 4:30 got ready & done something productive. This Saturday I did, I volunteered with Mckamey at the Scenic City Half Manathon & 5k Charity Challenge.
I had fun passing out t-shirts & shoe tags. McKamey won 1st place for most money raised for the 3rd year in row.

Introducting Our New Baby...

2010-02-28T20:45:00.001-05:00

After my volunteer meeting Thursday night at McKamey Adoption Center Mitch, Kipper & I went looking for a new furry family member. We quickly fell in love with Fara. Saturday we officially adopted her & bought her home to stay.
She had been at McKamey for months. I have no idea why, because she's very cute, playful & loves to cuddle. Before we left the staff said their good-byes. We're so thankful they took such good care during her stay.
Kipper didn't act jealous like everyone thought she would. The thing that bothered her at first was when Fara would try to play. Kipper didn't know how to play with her. She would get a little freaked out when Fara would start jumping around, she's starting to enjoy having a playmate. All in all the transition has gone very smoothly.

Your Muse

2010-02-28T19:39:00.002-05:00

I am no poet
Only your muse
An inspiration you'll forever use
Please don't be too cliche
Write of me in such a way
Don't hide your feelings
Let them flow
But keep my name unknown

FAIL.

2010-02-21T19:35:00.002-05:00

Parking Meter Fail Straw Fail

Scenes from our evening. We enjoyed dinner at Chili's after taking Kipper for a walk. We noticed the parking meter on the way back.

She's Just An Average Jo

2010-02-21T13:43:00.001-05:00

Look at Lyndsey...

I'm thrilled! I was freaking out, screaming, & pointing when I noticed it. Mitch didn't know what was happening. He thought a plane was crashing.

A Day at the Park

2010-02-21T13:23:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we enjoyed the beautiful weather by taking Kipper to Ross' Landing. Now that Ross' Landing is dog friendly it will be the location of some great events for our 4-legged family members. To stayed up dated check out Dog Friendly Chattanooga.

Then she came home & passed out until Lyndsey & Andy arrived.

Ashley & Avrionna

2010-02-20T01:06:00.002-05:00

Kamron hugging his baby sister.

I'm going to attempt to give all the details to best of my knowledge, so you guys know what's happening.

My sister Ashley's second child, Avrionna is due June 4th. February 11th as Ashley was about to leave her doctor appointment her water broke. She was then rushed to Erlanger where they worked for hours to stop her labor. She was only 24 weeks along, Avrionna weighting 1 lbs. 6 oz. Ashley was told if she had her that day the baby would have a 10% chance of survival.

They were able to finally stop the labor. Ashley & Avrionna are doing okay. Ashley now has to stay in the hospital until she gives birth. Everything's looking up now, but it's up to her body & we never know what the next day will bring. Thank you for all prayers & please continue. They are working. GLORY BE TO GOD!

My Life's List: Possible Get Togethers

2010-02-17T22:11:00.001-05:00

Housewarming Party
2nd Sunday: Lunch & Movie

Forrest Gump & Shimp
Memoirs of a Geisha & Sushi
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory & Sweets
Fried Green Tomatoes & Fried Foods

Scrap booking
Formal Night
Picnic

My Bucket List

2010-02-15T18:43:00.002-05:00

Here's a list of the major things I want to do before I die. If you could help marking a thing off, that would be amazing! Please take the time post your bucket list.

* Own a Music Venue
* Own a home
* Adopt 2 children
* Plan a music festival
* Finish my business degree
* Attend Mass in the Vatican
* Eat Italian food in Italy
* Watch a Broadway musical in New York City
* Eat pizza in Chicago
* Volunteer in India
* Meet Mickey Mouse in Disney World
* Hire a singer/songwriter to follow me for a day to play the soundtrack of my life.
* Compete in an eating contest
* Hire Demetri Martin to play a private party at my house
* Have lunch with Ziggy Marley

* Crash a wedding

* Marry the man of my dreams

Crystal Dawn Photography

Happy Valentine's Day! Everyday's the 14th!

2010-02-14T20:20:00.001-05:00

.2nd Valentine's Being Married, Good Job!

We slept in, cuddled and I stayed in my Hello Kitty pajamas all day.

Then Mitch give me flowers.

But wait there's more...

Homemade Sesame chicken & it's heart-shaped! Dinner was super yummy. Mitch is a fantastic cook!

All Up in MySpace (How Mitch & I Met)

2010-02-14T16:42:00.001-05:00

In my senior Creative Writing class we had to write a personal ad that highlight our flaws. Well this is what I wrote & posted on my MySpace blog on Sunday, Jan. 21, 2007.

"Bitter With Baggage Seeks Same

SWF Catholic, spoiled, loud, winey, bossy. Won't pay for anything, fall in love or put out. Loves going out to dinner, has BAD table manners and eats A LOT. Also enjoys concerts, known to get too close to mosh pits and/or flirt w/ band

Seeks SM w/ car, job, money and time to spend on me. MUST pay for all dates, buy me jewelry, be hot, talent, funny.
Dumbass jerks need not apply."

Mitch commented, "I would not only pay, I would cook for you!! But that's just the kindof guy I am. Peace, Mitch P.S. Profile looks good :-)"

I commented back & the rest is history.

This is us on our first date. It was a double date with people we never talk to anymore. We were at the BEST Mexican Restaurant ever, Ayala's in Dayton, TN.

Yesterday...

2010-02-13T23:14:00.001-05:00

was very busy. The office closed early, because of the snow. I was able to start my volunteer shift with McKamey an hour and a half early. Carmike Cinema has booths set up this weekend to showcase local non profits. So another volunteer & I took 2 puppies to show off. I'm very thankful that Mitch helped us with transport & set up. The puppies, Rip & Zola were adorable lab/pit mixes, that were born in the shelter.

After my shift Mitch & I went to Red Lobster. My meal was super yummy. It was a popcorn shrimp, garlic mashed potatoes, & of course those great biscuits.

Words Can't Convey

2010-02-10T22:08:00.003-05:00

Crystal Dawn Photography

Words can't convey

What I want to say

Words of love so over used

They're tired and abused

Wish I could find words fresh and new

Just spoken for me and you

But all the ones that come to mind

Have been used too many times

Three little words won't do

When confessing my love to you

My love is so much more

Than most thought before

Oh Please! How do you say?

Without sounding cliché

That my love grows everyday

More and more in every way

Or that you're my soul mate

That we met is fate

We were meant be together

With you I'll be forever

Yes, that's all true

But no good to tell you

I won't let you go

That I know

I wrote this in April '07 after falling in love with Mitch. It's about my frustration to find words good enough express my love. The picture above is Mitch on our wedding day.

Bonnaroo Initial Line Up

2010-02-09T22:41:00.000-05:00

Bonnaroo slowly announced the initial line up today. I'm so excited, I could cry. This will be my 4th year at the Roo.

Here's the line up so far, in green are the bands I know for sure I want to see.

Against Me!
B.O.B.
Baaba Maal
Baroness
Bassnectar
Blitzen Trapper
Blues Traveler
Brandi Carlile
Calexico
Carolina Chocolate Drops
Clutch
Cross Canadian Ragweed
Damian Marley (with Nas)
Dan Deacon Ensemble
Daryl Hall & Chromeo
Dave Matthews Band
Dave Rawlings Machine
Deadmau5
Diane Birch
Dr. Dog
Dropkick Murphys
Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros
Gaslight Anthem
GWAR
Here We Go Magic
Hot Rize
Ingrid Michaelson
Isis
Jamey Johnson
Japandroids
Jay Electronica
Jay-Z
Jeff Beck
Jimmy Cliff
John Fogerty
John Prine
Julia Nunes
Kid Cudi
Kings of Leon
Kris Kristofferson
LCD Soundsystem
Les Claypool
Local Natives
Lotus
Lucero
Manchester Orchestra
Martin Sexton
Mayer Hawthorne & the County
Medeski Martin & Wood
Michael Franti & Spearhead
Miike Snow
Miranda Lambert
Monte Montgomery
Mumford & Sons
Nas (with Damian Marley)
NeedtoBreathe
Neon Indian
Nitty Gritty Dirty Band
Norah Jones
OK Go
Phoenix
Punch Brothers
Rebelution
Regina Spektor
Rise Against
She & Him
Steve Martin & the Steep Canyon Rangers
Stevie Wonder
Tenacious D
The Avett Brothers
The Black Keys
The Dead Weather
The Disco Biscuits
The Dodos
The Entrance Band
The Flaming Lips with Stardeath and White Dwarfs perform “Dark Side of the Moon”
The Melvins
The National
The Postelles
The Temper Trap
The xx
They Might Be Giants
Thievery Corporation
Tinariwen
Tokyo Police Club
Tori Amos
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
Wale
Weezer
Zac Brown Band

Also in Bonnaroo related news chattATTACK! is organizing a mass caravan from Chattanooga to the festival, so all us chatt kids can enjoy Roo together.

Belle of Banger's Ball

2010-02-07T23:31:00.000-05:00

In the last couple months a dance craze has hit Chattanooga. Raves are popping up everywhere. Last night we went to Banger's Ball & danced from 11pm to 3am.

Getting Ready for the Ball

2010-02-07T23:14:00.000-05:00

Getting ready for Banger's Ball was quite the adventure in & of its self. Lyndsey pressured me to wear make-up, which I haven't done since high school. Since I'm clueless how to apply it, her & Kursten had to help me. It was very funny, but one of those you had to be there moments. After getting beautified we whipped out the cell phones & took several pictures.

B-Ball with Lyndsey Jo

2010-02-07T22:51:00.000-05:00

Saturday afternoon I went to Chattanooga State's Basketball game with Lyndsey & Andy. I've been a student at Chatt State for nearly 3 years & it was first time attending a sporting event. There wasn't many people there, I guess Community College students don't get into campus activities as much. It was a lot more fun than I thought it would be. They played Cleveland State at home. The boys won, but the girls lost.

Lyndsey is modeling her very stylist Ask Joe uniform. Ask Joe! is Chatt State marketing program where they pick real students from all different walks of life to represent the school for year on billboards, ads, events, etc.

Making a Difference Monthly #2

2010-02-03T11:15:00.001-05:00

Also at Goodwill Industries this month they’re beginning a new program called GoodGuides. GoodGuides is training volunteers to mentor high school students age 16 & 17 with disabilities. The mentor will spend a minimum of 4 hours will their mentee doing things that will him or her develop a plan that will ensure a lifetime of independence & success.

Contact Paul Jette at 629-2501 ext. 281 or paul.jette@goodwillchatt.org for more info.

My friend, Lyndsey & I are very excited about this program. We can't wait to be mentors.

Making a Difference Monthly

2010-02-02T15:12:00.003-05:00

Making a Difference Monthly

Carrie at [carrotspeak.] has this nifty blog series “Making a Different Monday” in which she blogs about something she did to make a different that week & her post links to other bloggers that are posting about their small steps to change the world.

I’ve been inspired to start my own spin off called “Making a Different Monthly.” Making a Different Monthly is an attempt to get a group of people together at least once a month to do some sort volunteer activity.

Luckily there are plenty of fun opportunities coming up to keep us busy.

Chili’s Give Back Night to Benefit Goodwill Industries is Monday, February 8, 2010 from 5 pm to 9 pm at Market St., Cleveland, Hixson, Hamilton Place, Dalton & Brainerd locations. Chili’s will donate 10% of your purchase to Goodwill, all you have to do is bring this Flyer.

Print it any size, color or back & white. You must have a copy of the flyer for the donation to count.

Cleaning, Discovering, Hanging Out, Laughing, Eating, Playing

2010-01-31T14:01:00.001-05:00

Had no idea what to title this blog. So I just listed all the things I did yesterday.

Cleaned the apartment a little while Mitch was out helping his friend's parents move. While I doing so & attempting to organize I opened up my potato box which had not been open since I moved out of mom's.

Inside the box I discovered a wrapped gift I never got around to giving to Lyndsey last Christmas, jar of about $3 worth of coins, a tub of clay & various other items. We are about to move & people look at me crazy when I tell them we haven't packed. To be honest there isn't much to pack most of my stuff is still packed from last year.

Last night we hung out with Lyndsey & Andy at this pool hall/bar/restaurant in Hixson called Charlie's. It was a lot of fun. We laughed at Mitch & Andy, ate some yummy nachos & I tried & failed to play pool.

Chattanooga Closes For Snow

2010-01-30T00:33:00.000-05:00

In Chattanooga, Tennessee if we get 3 flakes the schools close, if we get 3 inches the whole city shuts down. I don't mind though, I got off of work 2 and an half hours early & got paid for all 8! I had no idea adults have snow days & get paid for it.

Leticia Wolf

2010-01-26T22:06:00.001-05:00

I am super excited about going to see Leticia Wolf tomorrow at Rhythm & Brews. Check her out. Here's some pictures Mitch took last time we saw her at Rhythm & Brews.

Little Miss Kipper

2010-01-25T23:45:00.001-05:00

This is our very spoiled furkid, Kipper. As I type this we are playing. She loves playing fetch & destroying every toy we buy her. Kipper lives the good life now, but she had a very rough beginning.

One cold & raining in March she was found outside at my work in box that said “free puppy.” Mitch & I had been planning to get a dog. So we rescued her.

We brought the scared & helpless adorable ball of fur home & soon realized that she was too weak to hold up her head. After many vet visits and many sad days fearing we were going to have to euthanize. I prayed & prayed she would get better. In the few weeks we had her we had already fallen in love. The vet finally was able to diagnose that parasites were what was making her so weak. After about a week of medicine she was a happy healthy pup.

Collective Clothing After Closing

2010-01-24T12:20:00.000-05:00

Here's some pictures from last night's show at Collective Clothing. Concerts in clothing stores are interesting. Shopping and live music, what's not to love? Those two guys are the band Machines Are People Too. The middle picture is the huge Virgin Mary shirt I bought there and plan to wear as a dress.

My Best Friend Kursten

2010-01-23T17:50:00.001-05:00

These pictures are from a few adventures my friend Kursten & I have shared.

McKamey Animal Care & Adoption Center Volunteer Orientation = Spoil Kipper Day

2009-10-19T15:19:00.001-04:00

Saturday morning, I had Volunteer Orientation at McKamey Animal Care & Adoption Center. It went very well. McKamey is a very neat, clean & organized facility. After I take the animal handling class Thursday, I get to start volunteering. I’m super excited about the class, because I think it will be super educational in how to handle my own dog.

The only thing that bothered me was seeing all the homeless animals. It just upsets me to think that most the animals are there, because someone didn’t get their pet fixed or they didn’t have the patience for the puppy stage.

After leaving McKamey I felt like spoiling our little rescue, Kipper. It just broke my heart to think if we haven’t found her, she could be there waiting for home. Anyways so we picked her up & took her to PetSmart. I have to brag that she behaved very well. We bought her a new leash, harness, 2 balls & a rubber stick. She loves her new toys & doesn’t seem to mind her harness.

From there we went to Mitch’s parents’ about an hour away. Kipper got to play with their dog, Socks outside; while we visited my sister, brother in law & niece who were in town for the weekend.

Fix Your Bitch, Tame Your Tom Cat!

2009-07-30T09:13:00.002-04:00

One of the issues I’m really passion about is having all cats and dogs spayed or neutered. Having your pet fixed one of the first things you should think about when bringing them home. Getting your new furry friend fixed is basic care, just as important as feeding and watering them. One simple surgery can not only, help your pet’s health for a lifetime, but the health of the pet population as a whole. Here just a few reasons this is so import to your pet’s health:

1. Helps reduce pet over population.
2. Decreases risk of developing ovarian, uterine or breast cancer and prostate cancer or testicular tumors.
3. Better behaved and less aggressive.
4. Are less likely to roam, fight, and "mark" territory.
5. A cat can pop out about 20 kittens in 1 year.
6. The average number of puppies in a litter is 6 to 10.
7. Helps keep pet ownership less messy.(male cats and dogs spray a lot and it really stinks up your whole house. Female cats & dogs will start their period.

Some excuses people use for not getting their animals fixed are it will cost too much, their pet will become lazy or less active, and they want their children to see the miracle of birth.

To be honest, if you can’t afford it, then you don’t need to be taking animals in. Luckily, there’s a clinic in our area that provides low-cost spay/neuter, Wally’s Friends. For more info you can call 423-877-9966 or go to Wallyfriends.com.

I know every animal is different, but I haven’t any major energy decrease in any of the pets I know. We just had our little Husky puppy spayed about a month ago. She seemed healed the next day and she’s just as hyper as ever. Another example is my mama’s one-eye cat he was fixed at an older age and he’s the friskiest cat I’ve ever seen.

I have heard that it’s good for pets to get pregnant because it’s educational. Watch Animal Planet or TLC! If I saw my family pet giving birth when I was little, I would have cried or threw-up.