My Lame Attempt at Story Telling....

It's fairly obvious that most little girls love to dress up. Well, okay, I should say it isn't strictly limited to little girls. It starts when we're little, and then it seems as women, we never quite get over the desire, no, the need to dress up, and wear something pretty.

My children are no exception. I don't know where it comes from. There is some innate force that drives girls to loves all things pink and princess. The same mysterious force that makes my little boy want to wrestle with anything that moves, burp in your face, and ask me to pull his finger, so he can fart. It's weird, really. Where do these interests come from?

I used to be convinced that certain gender-specific tendencies are learned. We treat our little girls like princess, and we treat our little boys like future pro-athletes. They learn to behave accordingly. I've thought that all my life. Until I had children of my own. When KJ was born she was a girl. (She still is, don't worry). But C was hell-bent on turning her into a tomboy. He didn't want me to dress her in pink, we bought at lot of "neutral" outfits for her. He would come home from work bearing gifts like footballs, baseballs, and trucks for her. He would hold her on his lap all day every Sunday, and have her watch football with him. When she learned to talk she would beg him to "watch the Jazz bear with him." We thought we had her trained.

We were wrong. When KJ hit about 18 months old she learned the words "pink" and "dress." And suddenly they were her only words. All she wanted to do was to put on twirly pink dresses, pretend to be a princess, and dance around. Believe me, she was never told about any of these things by us. I've never considered myself to be much of a girly girl, and I was perfectly fine having a tomboy for a daughter.

But, somehow, she figured it out. Maybe it came from her friends, although at 18 months, she didn't have much of a social life.

Since then, we've been watching her majesty live her life in one big fashion show. Although, she'd never admit this to anyone outloud (because apparently she's too cool, or too mature to play dress up now), but she still hasn't grown out of it.

Recently, one of KJ's friends, a little neighbor girl was over playing. At some point in their play, they decided to go downstairs, where we have a toy room, and a box filled with different dressups. We have a few rules in our house, when friends are over: stay out of the exercise room, stay out of the storage room, stay out of Mom & Dad's room. Simple rules that my kids know well (after being nagged by me alot), and are pretty good at following.

I don't remember exactly what I was doing at the time, but I wasn't watching too closely because I'd figured the girls had gone downstairs to play.
Next thing I know, KJ and her friend have come upstairs all decked out in their dress ups, and they asked me for something (a snack, to go outside--something I don't remember---it's not important).
Here was KJ, in last year's dance recital costume. Cute little sparkly turquoise short dress. Perfect for dress up after the recital was over. And then there was her friend. She was wearing a hot pink silky number, with spaghetti straps and lace, which was clearly made to fit an adult. I couldn't help thinking to myself, "Now, where have I seen that dress before?" It certainly wasn't from the dress up box.

And then, with horror, it hit me. This was no dress up. This was one my "special outfits" from my "bedroom attire" collection. Granted it hadn't been used since probably my first year of marriage, but still, it was hanging in the back of my closet, collecting dust. That is, until this day.
And now, my neighbor's little girl was wearing it. Somehow they had sneaked into my room, and found it in my closet.

My eye is twitching just recalling the whole ordeal. I was mortified, but tried to keep my cool. Clearly, the girls didn't know they had swiped my negligee, and I certainly wasn't going to let on what special uses their new found shiny pink "dress up" held. But, how do you gently say, "you can't wear that", without drawing attention to it.

So, I suggested the girls get dressed and go outside and do tricks on the tramp. Lucky for me, they bought into that idea.

As for the silky hot pink number, it's number is up. It is being retired. I'm thinking something like a cleansing bonfire....to burn away the memory from my mind.

*shudder*

Look! A Giveaway!

I recently got a couple of cool things in the mail! I won one of Shauna's giveaways over at Trying to Stay calm. I got a CD and song book for the new Musical Little Women. She's always doing all sorts of cool giveaways on her blog. Go check her out.

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And today, I got Denae's book "The Accidental Gringo." I just can't tell you how excited I am to read it! I am totally in love with Denae. Especially since she came out in her last post. Funny, funny, beautiful lady!

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And if you're looking to win some stuff for yourself, you've come to the right place. Well, no not here, I'm not having a give way. At least not today. But, I know some people who are!

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Go check out the MMB! Their April giveaway is chuck full of awesome stuff to score! Go. Go there now!!!

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And my good friend (who I'm proud to say is my friend in real life) Sarah, is having a 100th post giveaway over on her blog. She's giving away lots of cool stuff, including a beautiful portrait by her husband, amazing jewelry she made herself (I have some, and it's awesome), a beautiful CD by the most amazing pianist you've ever heard of (hint, hint), and a needle felted pig by Jo (I've seen her handy work--it was passed around at the last blogger lunch--she's a talented lady). So, go enter her bloggy giveaway, too!

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And I recently came upon a new site that is dedicated exclusively to giveaways. How cool is that? Go check out Rockmyfriday.com

Random Sherisms, and Random Tunes

I am in a blogging rut. Isn't it obvious? Haven't seen me around lately. That's because I haven't been here. And now I can't blame it on other "Internet addictions" either. I've been...well....living my life, I guess. About time.

Saturday morning I got up to run with my group. We had a long run to do, trying to get ready for the marathon. We tried a new route, hooking in to the new Legacy trail. It was AWESOME! I love that trail. I'm sure it'll be even better once everything is green.

Legacy Trail

I also love the Lagoon trail. It's short, but so beautiful. And it goes along the back of Lagoon, and you can see all the animals. And no matter what time of year it is, the scenery is so beautiful. There is a canopy of trees over head, plenty of wild brush alongside the trail. It is simply breathtaking, no matter what time of year it is. Summer is green and lush, Fall is surrounded by falling colors, Winter is clean and white, Spring is fresh and blooming. If you ever get a chance, go for a walk along that trail. It's worth it.

Lagoon Trail

So, at the start of the run, I was nervous, because I didn't have a good day the Saturday before. I went slow, and ended up getting behind the group and ran shorter than planned. As I've said before, I've kind of gotten into a running funk, and up to this point, I'd just been going through the motions, but my heart wasn't really in it. Well, we started out, and most of the group was cutting short, and there ended up only being two of us running long. I don't know if it was the change of scenery or just having a good day, but around mile 15, I got my second wind. We ended up running 21 miles. And I felt so good. I guess the adrenalin kicked in. My only regret was the fact that the Salt Lake marathon was that day, and I totally could have run 5 more miles. But at least now, I'm ready for Ogden marathon. Running the distance has given me the boost I needed to keep going. That euphoria that I feel after a long run....that I don't get after the short runs....that is why I run marathons.

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I took the girls to see the new Hannah Montana movie last Saturday, after trying to juggle me running 21 miles, Peter's ballet class pictures, TJ's friend's birthday party, and KJ's soccer game (which all happened to over lap--Thank goodness for a good husband to pick up the slack)

I went to the movie (after KJ begged and begged), expecting it to be cheesy and stupid. And I loved it! Seriously! It was such a cute, uplifting movie, and I really like the music. So, Amber, I'm definitely in, when you want to see it again!!

I just had to throw in this really cute pic of my future rock star.

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I've had a hankering for strawberry jam lately. And I noticed that strawberries were really cheap at the store the other day. So I bought a case. Apparently one case of strawberries makes enough jam to feed a small country. So, I spent all day Monday...(or was it Tuesday--I can't remember) making jam. Anybody want some?

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My Dad's birthday was Tuesday, so we had a birthday party for him on Tuesday night. Monday was also my brother's birthday. He 17. Yikes. And yesterday was my niece's 2nd birthday. So, Happy Birthday Dad, Mase and Ava!

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My brother's wife had a baby last Friday. So Wednesday, I took their two little girls (3, and 2) all day, then made them dinner Wednesday night. So, entertaining five kids, while making dinner, and cookies.....yeah......no time to blog.

I did manage on Wednesday night, though, to try to upload my album into a program that puts it onto iTunes, Amazon, etc for artists. Downloading this program completely crashed my computer. The whole thing just froze. For like 24 hours. I tried everything. Control/Alt/Delete, Pushing the power button, Holding down the power button. I even just unplugged the computer and rebooted. It didn't work. Finally, I got my computer to at least shut down last night around 6:00. So, I decided to let it rest for a while.

I turned it on this morning, and now it's working fine. But, I'm scared to open the program to continue uploading. Apparently the universe isn't ready for my songs to be on iTunes yet.

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I got this email forward today, and I thought it was funny:

"Last year I replaced all the windows in my house with that expensive double-pane energy efficient kind, and today, I got a call from the contractor who installed them.. He was complaining that the work had been completed a whole year ago and I still hadn't paid for them. Hellloooo,...........just because I'm blonde doesn't mean that I am automatically stupid. So, I told him just what his fast talking sales guy had told me last year, that in ONE YEAR these windows would pay for themselves! Helllooooo? It's been a year! I told him. There was only silence at the other end of the line, so I finally just hung up. He never called back. I bet he felt like an idiot."

Don't I wish you really could get away with that! If I had a nickel for every time I was told "this product will pay for itself"........

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Production on the CD is almost done! I got my permissions in the mail yesterday, so we are a go on that!! Yay! And I'm almost done with the album cover. I had a very talented photographer take my picture yesterday. We are trying to decide which one to put on the album, then it'll be sent off to the printer. I'm hoping for a release sometime mid-May.

Thank you to everyone who has already made an order! Remember you get a free sheet music download AND free shipping if you pre-order between now and April 30th. Go to my website to order.

Want to see the cover? Here it is:

What do you think?

And remember if you haven't heard my music yet, I now have a little widget over there on the side bar. Go click play and listen. And if you love it, you are more than welcome to borrow it and put it on your blog! Just click Share.

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So, I've been busy. I'm trying to focus on everything going on right now. I'm hoping by summer things will slow down. So, sorry, if you don't see me lurking. I'll be by eventually. Don't write me off completely.

So, here are some random tunes:

1. Constellations - Jack Johnson

2. Oxygen - Colbie Caillat

3. Take It To the Limit - The Eagles

4. Good Enough - Sarah Mclachlan

5. Please - Chris Isaak

6. Start All Over - Miley Cyrus

7. March of the Witch Hunters - Wicked

8. Only Time - Enya

9. Sonata No. 2 in b flat minor for Piano, Op. 35, Grave "Funeral March" - Chopin

10. Bicycle Race - Queen

Bonus: Unknown - Chely Wright

Where's Sherdo?

Yeah, I know that title is lame. Just goes to show what kind of blog rut I'm in. Haven't seen me around lately? Missed my comments? Yeah. Sorry. I haven't been blogging much lately.

I've been over here. Amazed how a case of mistaken identity can make you popular over night (I'll explain that someday).

But, mostly, I've been playing over here. Come on over and check it out! So much fun!!!

Pay It Forward

I've seen this around a lot, and I've always been too slow on the draw to make it to the top five, so I've never participated. But, I thought it looks like fun. And although I'm not exactly a crafty person, I would love to give you something made just from me!

The first FIVE people to comment on this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
What I create will be just for you.
It'll be done this year.
You have no clue what it's going to be.

It may be a story. It may be a joke book, autographed picture of myself, the garbage bag collection of toys I took away from my naughty kids, or a little invention of my own! I may bake you something and mail it to you. You might even get a free copy of my CD! Who knows?

The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must re-post this on your blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog. Oh, and be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it! Sounds like fun, right? So let's play!

Random Sherisms, and Random Tunes

First, I just have to point out the neat thing I figured out how to do this morning. Last night, while playing around on the Internet, I came a across a website called reverbnation, that is similar to the mp3.com site, but cooler. The coolest thing? They have widgets that allow me to put my music on my blog! So, now you don't have to go on a wild goose chase to hear samples of my music. You can just go over to the sidebar on the left, and click play.

So far, I only put my original songs on there, but just know there are some really awesome hymn arrangements on my album, too.

So, go turn it on and listen while you read the rest of this post. And people, I really want some comments this time. I want to know what you really think. Do you just love it? No, it's not rock out, dance with your mop while your cleaning the house kind of music. These are some of the things I think my music is good for (and what I use it for--yes, I listen to my own songs--all the time--I'm a dork): play it for your kids at bedtime to help them get to sleep (I have a lullaby album in the works, by the way), background music while you read, mood music for Sunday afternoon, background music while you relax in the bath, perfect romantic music for your wedding (this works much better live--hire me. Please. I take requests, too).

Just some suggestions. And remember my promo is still going on til the end of the month. If you purchase a CD, you will get free shipping, AND a free sheet music download (if you want it--no obligation to accept the free gift).

Also, I am aware that the economy is in the crapper, so I set up a button for you to download single songs on mp3 files. I'm still working out the bugs on that, so for now, once you have paid through Paypal, I will email you the mp3 files. Sorry, I know that's a pain because you don't get your song immediately, but it's better than nothing, right?!! And the songs are only 99 cents each (+ tax)! So, if you have a song or two (or twelve) that you love and gotta have, go over to my other blog (sherrieshepherdpiano.blogspot.com) and download yourself some tunes!!

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Now that I've got my shameless self promotion out of the way, I can proceed with more randomness. I had another epiphany. And surprisingly it was not while running. You know how last week, I was whining and complaining about my kids whining and complaining? Well, that was pretty sugar-coated (that's punny, and you'll see why in a minute). All last week, and into this week, our house has been full of emotional imbalances. Mother Hulk and her three little green monsters. Some nights, I was a raving lunatic. Sometimes, I think if I hear one more tantrum, have to break up one more fight, or listen to any more whining about how bored you are, I'm going to rocket straight thought the roof! I'm telling you there was one day that I was very seriously considering putting my children up for sale on the Internet.

Hey, there's an idea, buy a CD, get a free bratty kid. Ha ha. Rest assured, I have calmed down from that point, and no my children are not for sale. Today.

Then, around Tuesday night, we ran out of the Easter candy that we'd all been eating for every meal for the entire week.

And on Wednesday, something miraculous happened. We all ate a wholesome meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And didn't munch on sugar all day. And amazingly enough, there were no tantrums, there was minimal fighting, and the Mother Hulk turned back into the calm, easy going bio-scientist nurturing parent.

It's amazing how much sugar affects us emotionally. Sugar is like my own personal brand of heroine (what is that line from?). It's so addictive, and mood altering. It's very, very bad.

New goal: no more sugar.

Ok, ok, I realize I can't completely go cold turkey. Because when you find me huddled up into a ball in a dark corner of my closet, shaking, shivering, and sweating from withdrawals, you may just want to put me out of my misery.

But, I am going to make a very conscious effort to minimize my sugar intake, and my children's sugar intake, for that matter.

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That reminds me. Have you ever seen this book?

When KJ was about 2, we used to go to the library all the time. I think we checked this book out at least a dozen times. It's hilarious. And everything in it is absolutely true. Go check it out!

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The other thing I was thinking about has just left the great and spacious building that is my head. It's mostly empty.

Oh, that reminded me. I remember now.

Did you know that I have an editor for my blog? Yeah. Ok, well, he's not actually an editor, per se. More like a proof-reader, who only tells me about all of the mistakes I made, and only about 8 + hours after I've posted.

Last night, C pointed out to me the enormous irony in one mistake I made in yesterday's post. I didn't go back and change it, so you can go look at it and laugh at me.

I wrote: "I not exactly stupid." instead of, "I'm not exactly stupid."

Ironic, isn't it.

Boy, do I feel dumb. Maybe I really are stupid.

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That's all I've got for the moment. But I am excited to be going to a Utah Grizzlies hockey game tonight, for the first time in I don't know how many years. Nothing like a good brawl on the ice! I'd forgotten how much I like hockey. I'm excited!

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And here are your tunes:

1. Defying Gravity - Idina Menzel & Kristen Chenowith (Wicked)

2. Money in the Bank - John Anderson

3. There is No Arizona - Jamie O'Neal

4. Weird Science - Oingo Boingo

5. Prelude - George Winston

6. Savin' Me - Nickelback

7. Imagine - John Lennon

8. Yes - Coldplay

9. Somebody to Love - Queen

10. Chasing Pavements - Adele

Bonus: Better Than This - Keane (for you Tib)

Epiphanes While Running

There is something about running that just clears the mind. I don't know if it's the endorphins or the adrenalin, or the brisk morning air, or watching the sunrise, good conversation with good friends, but whatever it is, I always get thinking while I'm running
I don't consider myself to be particularly intellectual. I not exactly stupid, by any means, although some people who know me might beg to differ. I don't usually get too involved in political or international topics. I pretty much live in my bubble, minding my own business, just moving along through life.
But, while I'm running, sometimes my eyes are opened (or my mind), and I see things a little more clearly. I have been known during a conversation while running to actual develop and produce an original thought or two. I'm not sure if that's from the running itself, or because I'm actually having a conversation with an intelligent person who doesn't go to preschool.

So, today, I got up to do my usual Thursday morning 9 miler with my running group. Somehow we started on the topic of our spouses. I think someone asked me if C runs, to which I answered that I've tried to get him into it for years, but it's just not his thing. Don't get me wrong, he's in great shape. He has this killer metabolism that didn't seem to slow down at all, even now that he's in his mid-thirties. To be honest, it kind of pisses me off a little bit, because he eats so much deep fried, clog-your-arteries type food, and doesn't gain anything. In fact, C exercises to maintain his weight, because if he doesn't he will lose. It's very, very infuriating to someone who works her butt off only to keep gaining anyway.
Well, we got talking about diet and I told the group about how C jokes that he's rather eat whatever he wants and die happy at 50, then eat "healthy" and dying starving at 80. So, we got on the topic of if a spouse dies young, would you remarry? Would you not? C and I have this ongoing joke that if he were ever to die, then I could just use the life insurance to buy some new boobs, then I could get me a new husband. (Okay, it's a joke, but putting it all out in writing does seem a little degrading).
So, that's when it hit me. It's not anything new, really. Just a thought that's been re-newed, so to speak. I thought out loud that it just doesn't get any better than this. I am married to the man of my dreams. I consider myself to be a really lucky girl. C is a incredibly good man, who works really hard, who loves his family, and loves me, and makes me happy. So, I really don't want him to die, because I really, really don't want to be married to anyone else.
That's epiphany number one.

Number two came several miles later, while a few people in our group were crossing the road at a busy intersection. There were four of us together at this point (usually people break off--running slower, shorter, or whatever). Two were a little further ahead of me and one guy, Kirby. We came to the intersection. The light was green. The crosswalk had the little green dude pictured in the motion of walking. So we proceeded to cross.
Suddenly, a white truck came out of nowhere, turning left from the opposite side, into the intersection. He showed no signs of any intention to stop. Just then, Kirby and I did the stupidest possible thing we could have done at that moment. Logically speaking, you would say run faster, get out of the guy's way, as fast as possible. Right? But, no, we panicked, and stopped. I supposed in my mind I was thinking I was stopping to let him by (so much for clearer thinking). But, no, he was on his way to plow straight through both of us.
At that moment, I exclaimed what were to be my last words in this life, "Oh Sh%$!" Yeah, that's right. I swear when I'm afraid for my life. Sue me.
Just then, the truck, whose windows were completely fogged/frosted over slammed on his breaks. He stopped within a foot of where we stood. Had he not seen us at the last minute, he would have charged right over us. It's one of those moment you hear about that everything seems to be happening is slow motion, but really only milliseconds have passed. In a matter of seconds, I realized I could have just died. Right there, in the middle of the street. On a Thursday. With a husband and three little kids at home waiting for me.
It made me realize first, that I need practice thinking more clearly, and more logically while out on the road, and not to trust that cars will see me, or move over for me on the road. I also realized how fragile life really is. That we live this life one moment at a time, and the next moment it could all be taken away.
And that's when the second epiphany hit me. If I had died today, my last words would've been, "Oh Sh%@!" Not exactly prophetic or enlightening, or even eloquent. And I thought, I got a second chance at life today. I can't let an expletive be my dying utterance.

So, today, I will tell my husband how much I love him, and I will stop swearing.

Amen.

Look What I Got Today...

A couple of weeks ago, I won the drawing for Lara's giveaway over at Overstuffed.

So, today, in the mail, I received a cute little crocheted hat, and 4 cute flower bows from Crafty Moms.

Look at how cute!

And I must say that my model is stinkin' cute, despite not having her hair combed or her face washed before the picture. Doncha think?

Introducing the Future CEO of Country Time...

Yesterday was such a gorgeous day. We got home from preschool, and after lunch, TJ decided he wanted to go outside and play. Of course, I was working away at the computer. He kept coming in and out of the house, taking things out. When I finally looked up to see what he was doing, I discovered that he had made a pitcher of lemonade, all by himself, found some paper cups, and had set up his own little lemonade stand outside.

So, I went out to see. He pulled a cooler from the garage to use as a table. He pulled an old car seat out to sit on, and he made himself a little sign on which he drew a pitcher of pink lemonade. And he sat out there all day. For probably 4 hours. I finally had to make him clean up everything around 5:00 and come inside.

But, he brought in his little cup of money and showed me that he'd made $4. Four dollars! That was charging a quarter per cup. I was so impressed with my little entrepreneur, and his initiative.

That kid will go places. I have no doubt.

Easter Hosanna!!

*First of all, I want to apologize for Friday's whining session. I certainly hope no one was offended. I think, sometimes, doing what I'm trying to do, trying to make something of myself in the music industry, can be very exciting, and sometimes downright frustrating and discouraging. Thank you so much for your support and patience.*

As many of you know, I had the opportunity, over the last couple of months to sing with the Antiphonal choir for Lex De Azevedo's Oratorio "Hosanna." The concert was held last Friday and Saturday. To tell you a little about it, it's a collection of beautiful, haunting music, with lyrics taken straight from the King James bible, telling about the last days of Christ, the trial, Gethsemane, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection. A musical depiction of Christ and the Atonement. As you may well know, music has a powerful effect on me. And I must confess that the experience that I've had with this production has been one of the most powerfully spiritual experiences of my life. The music of "Hosanna" absolutely resonates in my soul. Over the last week, I spent many sleepless nights, lying awake in my bed, singing the songs over and over. They just won't leave. And I don't want them to. As I stood, singing with the choir, the Spirit testified to me the truth of the message we conveyed. This isn't just a beautiful story. It is real. It truly happened. Jesus IS the Christ, the Son of God, and he suffered and died for us. I am just so, incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to be involved with such an amazing group of talented musicians, and with this magnificent production.

So, as I went through the last week, pondering this renewal of my testimony, my children were concurrently anticipating the arrival of the Easter Bunny. So, one night, I sat down with them, and asked them, "What do you think Easter is all about?" Of course, they said things like "Easter Bunny, eggs, chocolate, baby chicks, spring, flowers..."

I was shocked and appalled that not one of them mentioned Jesus. And disappointed in myself for not teaching them better. So we had a nice chat about the real reason we celebrate Easter.

It's probably because we spent so much time doing things that revolved around the "bunny" part of Easter. Friday, we colored eggs, and made some little birds' nests from a recipe we got on the MMB. They were supposed to be green, and made with white chocolate, but I didn't have any, so we had to use brown chocolate (I always have a plethora of that), so we had brown nests. I told the kids the were more authentic to nature that way. Besides, brown chocolate tastes better anyway. And we used Cadbury mini eggs, instead of Jelly Beans. The more chocolate, the better, right?

So, yesterday, before church, I asked KJ again what she thought Easter meant. She said "Jesus and the resurrection."

Good. It's sinking in. Even if she doesn't understand it. Even if she is still bent on catching the Easter bunny in the act. I found this little story she wrote on Friday:

Translation: Once upon a time there was a girl her name was KJ. She was trying to catch the Easter Bunny every Easter, but every time, she tried she didn't get him. Then next Easter Yay I got him. Good for you, Mom said. The End.

She told me she wanted to skip church so she could catch the Easter bunny, when he came while we were at church. Again, we had to have a little chat about Easter not being about the bunny, but about Jesus, and it's important that we go to church.

The Easter bunny showed up at our house in the middle of the night. He stayed up until 1 am on Saturday night, putting out goodies, and an Easter egg hunt, with clues for the kids to find their baskets. Then, of course the kids woke at the crack of dawn, excited because they'd found eggs on their pillows.

The Easter Bunny was very, very tired and ornery on Sunday morning, from lack of sleep. But, it was fun to watch the kids reading the clues, and trying to figure out where the next egg was hidden.

After church, we had dinner at my parent's house, and the kids got to have another Easter Egg hunt with their cousins.

So, what did you do for Easter?

Random Sherisms, and Random Tunes

Ok, now that we've established that I'm a great candidate for Mother of the Year, I have to say that I feel like I at least redeemed myself last night, by making the kids clean up their mess(before Dad came home), actually cooked a decent meal for dinner, gave them a bath, and spent some quality family/play time before bed.
See? I'm not completely useless as a parent.
About the kids cleaning up before Dad came home, do any of you ever do that? This is my daily ritual. We go through our day, doing our thing, making messes. And by golly, I refuse to follow my kids around all day picking up after them. Life is too short. There are just too many blogs to read to be doing that. So, every night around 5:00, we make a mad dash around the house, cleaning up, and making the house look half decent, so it doesn't look like I sat around all day to my workaholic husband. He needs to think that I work just as hard as he does. Or I'd never hear the end of it.
In my defense, though, usually, we have school, and activities to drive the kids to, and believe it or not, we've had less friends over this week than usual. So, really, we are busy during the day.
Anyway, I digress.

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Ok. I have been waffling back and forth, debating whether I should vent about what I'm about to vent about or not. (Did that make any sense whatsoever?) I hope this doesn't make me sound ungrateful, or anything. It's just I'm feeling a little discouraged is all. Why is it that more people are interested in what I fed my kids for breakfast, or what color I dyed my hair, than in my music? Of the 9 comments I got on my post announcing my free sheet music promo, most of them went something like this: "Oh well, I don't play the piano. Thanks anyway."
Ok, this might sound the slightest bit cynical, but you do realize that you don't actually have to play the piano to listen to piano music, right? You don't have get the free sheet music to buy the CD, if you don't want it.
That said, I appreciate all of you who have said you would buy a CD. I understand if you have reasons you want to wait. And I really, truly appreciate everyone who has ordered a CD already.
Thank you!
I'm just having some serious thoughts of self doubt, and wondering if this thing is just to big for me to succeed.

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I'm really worried that my little venting session will offend people. I don't want to guilt people into feeling sorry for me so they'll buy the CD. I want people to buy it because they like the music. All I'm asking, is that you take a moment, go over to my website, and just listen. You just might like it. I've also put Paypal buttons on my music blog, and created an Etsy account, just to make it easier for you. I also have a mail in form if you don't want to pay using Pay pal. Just send me an email, and I'll send it to you.

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Does it seem like I've been complaining alot? If so, I'm sorry. I think I've completely lost my funny mojo. Have you seen it? I was reading through some of my older posts, and I think I used to be pretty stinkin' funny. Now, the only time I think I'm funny is when I have a flask in my hand. I think I might have a problem. Is it possible to get addicted to grenadine?

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Speaking of funny stories, it recently occurred to me that I may or may not have never told you about the time TJ almost burned my house down. True story. Does that sound familiar? Have I told that story before? If not, plan on a good one later next week.

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KJ borrowed my i-pod. Now, of course, I can't find it. I guess that's what I get for being so accommodating as to downloading Disney channel crap songs for her. So, my random list will have to be what's randomly in my head.
Let's see.....every song from the Hosanna Concert by Lex De Azevedo. It's so stuck in my brain, from rehearsing over and over. I don't mind it though. The music is so amazing.
Seriously, if you are in Utah, and can make it into Salt Lake tonight or tomorrow night, come see the show. It is going to be incredible!! Buy tickets, here.

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Ok, here is my random 10 list for today:

1. She Went Out For Cigarettes - Chely Wright
2. I've Got You Under My Skin - Frank Sinatra
3. Can't Fight This Feeling - REO Speedwagon
4. Forever - Kenny Loggins
5. Voulez Vous - ABBA
6. Recuerdos - Eros Ramazotti
7. Wanted Dead or Alive - Bon Jovi
8. Sitting, Waiting, Wishing - Jack Johnson
9. If Tomorrow Never Comes - Garth Brooks
10. Viva la Vida - Coldplay

Bonus: Somewhere Over the Rainbow - Katherine McPhee

What Day Is It Again?

I got up this morning, fed the kids breakfast, sent them off to the family room to begin their ritual morning activity of killing brain cells (playing the Wii), and sat down to write my random Friday post.

Then, I realized that today is Thursday. Which would explain why, when I woke up at 9:00 this morning, I felt guilty. No, not because my children had already been up for 2 hours, and had to get their own breakfast (yesterday's brownies), and were watching Dora the Explorer, and The Suite Life of Zack and Cody all morning, while I snoozed away. No, I felt guilty because Thursday is a run day. I was supposed to meet my running group at 5:00. Once again, I didn't get up to run. In fact, I didn't even set my alarm last night.

I blame it on two things. Ok, well, three things.

One: Last night was our last rehearsal for the Hosanna Concert (did you get your tickets, yet?). We didn't get out of there until almost 10:00, plus drive time. I also volunteered to drive a group of three high-school-aged sisters, and a guy who can't drive because of a heart condition. So, I had to drop them all off before I could go home.
Two: It was raining so hard last night, it took extra time to drive home. For all I knew, the Great Salt Lake had floated into the sky and then been dumped out completely on the valley. It was raining THAT hard. I did NOT want to get up at the butt-crack of dawn to get hypothermia.
Three: I had to stay up and watch American Idol. Because up to this point, I always hear who gets voted off before I actually watch the show, and it bugs me. That's like hearing who won before you even start watching the game. That said, I'm kind of glad that that blind dude whose name I can't remember got voted off. I didn't think he was that great a singer. He was pretty good on the piano though. He should pursue that.

So, I didn't run this morning. That, combined with eating my weight in brownies all week, and trying to find way to entertain three ungrateful children, who think they are entitled to the world just by existing, I am NOT a happy camper today. I have bent over backwards trying to do fun things for those monkeys, and it seems all I get in return is whining and complaining. (Yes, I see the irony in me whining and complaining about my children whining and complaining. Shut up.)

I'm just looking forward to next week....when school starts again.

Free Sheet Music Download!

Yeah, that's right! I said FREE!!!!!

Of course, there are strings attached. Aren't there always?
I'm all about shameless self promotion. So here it is:

Go over to my other blog. The one where I like to talk about my process in trying to break into the music industry, and read my latest post.

It will give you all the info you need to get your free sheet music. You can choose from "Solitude" or "On the River." (If you ask me, they are my two of my favorite songs I've written).

Hey, and while you're there...go ahead and click Follow Me.

This is What It's All About!!

On Friday night I set my alarm for early. 5:15 a.m. to be exact. My clock is about 20 minutes fast. I do that on purpose because if I set it for the time I need to leave then I have exactly 20 minutes to get up and get ready. Or 10 minutes to snooze and 10 minutes to get ready.

I was planning on meeting my running group at 5:30. We meet in the next town over. It takes me about 10 minutes to drive there. So, I usually plan to leave at 5:15, give or take 5 minutes. The group was planning to do another long run.

One of my friends in the group owns a tiny little store, that is just about 20 miles (give or take) south of us. The plan on the long run days is to run from our meeting place to there on Saturdays. If we run back roads/trails, the shortest distance is 17 miles. We ran that distance the Saturday before.

My plan, however, was to meet, then run a shorter distance (maybe 10-12 miles) so I could get back for my hair appointment that I had to cancel the prior week due to the long run taking longer, due to my out-of-shapedness.

So, my alarm went off at 5:15. Or at least I think it did. I'm pretty sure I turned it off (instead of hitting snooze) in my sleep. I woke up at 6:10 (on my clock...so about 5:40 real time). For a moment, the panic set in and I thought about jumping out of bed and speeding to meet the group. But, I knew it was already too late. So, then I considered getting up and going out to run alone. With that thought, I laid back down on the pillow, and was out before the thought was even completely processed. I hate running alone. I'd rather not run at all.

So, to make a short, completely irrelevant to this post story long, I didn't get up Saturday to run. That is not really significant, except that I had a little minor breakdown yesterday, and I'm sure it's because I didn't get my adrenalin fix for the weekend.

Ok, moving on. I had a hair appointment at 9:30 am. I had made plans to leave at 11:30 with Motherboard to head to our lunch. My regular hairstylist (who can color, cut and style my hair in just under 2 hours) was booked out for several weeks, so she referred me to another girl in her salon. She also gave the new girl my color card, that said what colors I used for my hair. So, I went in at 9:30. I explained, the same way I always do, that I wanted my hair color very, very deep dark brown...almost black, so that when it fades (which it always does after a couple of weeks) it will be the color I want. I also wanted a caramel weave. I specified that I want the caramel just on the crown, and very, very subtle so it looks natural. She then proceeded to color my hair, as I chatted away with the other stylist while she did another girl's hair about my CD, marathons, and the fact that she is moving to NM (boohoo). 1 hour later, my stylist finally put me in the hair dryer. I sat there for probably 30-40 minutes, during which time she came back several times saying it's not quite done yet. By the time I was rinsed, it was 11:30. It took her 2 hours just to color my hair. By then, Motherboard had called and said she would meet me there instead of riding together, which really sucks. So, in interest of time, I told the girl, to just trim my hair. I didn't even have time to consider any other kind of cut. I did tell her, though, that I wanted drastic layers.

By the time she cut, and blow dried my hair, it was already 12:00. I was already 30 minutes late. So, I really didn't even look in the mirror, paid the lady, and sped down the road to meet my girls for lunch.

I looked in the car mirror and discovered that not only are my "layers" only 1 inch shorter from the longest length, but I am now a freaking blond! No offense to the blonds of the world. I think you are beautiful. But my natural color is brown. I like being a brunette. I want to stay that way. The so-called "caramel" was full on blond, and not subtle at all, but in huge stripes through the top of my head. I don't like the chunky stripey look. I think it makes me look like an old lady trying to look like a teenager. So, I spent my drive to Salt Lake, whining to Motherboard on the phone about how I hate my hair.

But, as soon as I arrive at the Skybox in the Gateway, and met with these beautiful ladies, my worries melted away. As soon as I approached the table, Denae stood up and gave me a big hug. You would never have guessed that we were meeting for the first time at that moment. In fact, Denae kept saying how it felt like we were just picking up where we left off. It truly felt like we were just 4 old friends catching up.

Denae is exponentially funnier in person. If you snort liquids while reading her blog, imagine hearing her stories live, in person, complete with facial expression, and tone of voice. I'm pretty sure I had Cherry Pepsi (because the restaurant didn't have Coke) come out my nose on several occasions during the lunch.

It was great to hear Amber and Denae rip about their fun family parties, dysfunction, and the sisterly banter between them. I was slightly jealous, for a moment, that I wasn't their sister, too. Maybe they will adopt me.

And I did promise Motherboard that the flask would make an appearance. And I just couldn't resist, due to the fact the I was forced to gag down the sorry excuse for a cola (Pepsi), rather than drinking the nectar of the Gods (Coke). I had to add some grenadine to make it bearable.

When I first brought out the flask, I think Denae really started to think I really was a Drunk on the go. She asked me if I had Grandpa's cough syrup in there. I said, of course, only cherry flavored cough syrup would do. With that, she, of course, had to try some for herself.

I didn't even get arrested.

We sat there talking for 4 hours, and probably would've sat there longer, if my phone hadn't starting ringing, reminding me that I had a family party starting in 20 minutes at a family member's home that was 45 minutes away.

Here is the picture that Motherboard took before I had to dash home. It is also the only after-picture I have of my haircut.

MMB Giveaway

Check out this Righteous Giveaway from Shelf Reliance over at the Mormon Mommy Blogs!

Except don't enter it, because I want to win.

Random Sherisms, and Random Tunes

You know, some days, I just feel like I'm on top of the world. That everything is going the way I want it to go. Things are working out just peachy. Some days, I can't help but notice and give thanks for all the blessings in my life.

What's strange is that from one day to the next those feelings can change so quickly. Other days, I wonder how I can possibly put one step in front of the other. How can I possibly keep moving forward? Some days, I feel like the pressure of life is weighing down on me so heavily that I feel I'm being crushed into nothing. Those are the days I forget how much I'm blessed, and I simply just want to walk away from it all.

It frightens me how easily I am swayed from one side to the other in a matter of a few hours. And thinking about this over the last few hours has brought me to a simple conclusion.

The days when I feel the richness and joy of my blessings, and find reason to show gratitude are the days when the Spirit is with me. And when I lose those feelings, and start spiraling downward into thoughts of self-doubt and fear, those are the days when Satan is working his hardest to chase away the Spirit. My Spirit.

Some time ago, I had a conversation with my ever so wise and spiritual baby sister. She told me simply that whenever she has feelings like this, she just says: "Bugger off, Satan. You have no business in my head." Just like that.

And I've been thinking about how negligent I tend to be when things are sailing smoothly. How would I feel if my children only came to me when they desperately needed something? If they didn't come to me just to give me a hug and tell me they love me? I would be devastated.

It's never occurred to me before to consider my Father in Heaven's feelings, when I neglect to kneel to Him in prayer, unless I need something. I am His child. He wants me to come to Him. Every day. Good or Bad. He wants to be there for me. To comfort me, to console me when I'm in pain. And to rejoice with me in my successes.

How can I keep from forgetting this important, and essential thing in my life--Prayer?

I think I'd better start making my bed.

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Wow. I seriously logged on today to vent. To whine and complain about how sad and sorry my life is, and that is what came out. Talk about being overcome by the Spirit. Talk about divine intervention.

I'm hearing in my head something like this: Come on, Sher. Snap out of it. Quit complaining, and come on. Let's talk about it.

I know my Heavenly Father loves me.

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How do I move on from that?

wiping tears, taking deep breaths....

OK. So.

Last week I mentioned about getting my hair cut. Well, obviously you didn't hear from me about the after picture. That's because I cancelled my appointment. I ran my 17 miles last Saturday, and my choice was either skip showering and go straight to my appointment. (Ew). Or cancel the appointment and take a nice long hot shower after my run. The choice was obvious.

So, I've rescheduled it for this Saturday. I'm planning on doing a short run (10-12 miles) so I can make it to my appointment.

I'm leaning toward keeping it long. I'm chicken. I don't want to have a mushroom head if I cut it short. Remember I have naturally curly hair. There's no predicting how it might decide to react to being cut. It could frizz out in protest.

We'll see.....I'll post after pictures later.

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I'm also very, very excited for a very special, secret lunch I have scheduled tomorrow, with three very special ladies. One of whom I've only ever met through blogging, but whom I absolutely adore. One I've only met once, and upon meeting, I'd never read her blog, but instantly loved her. We've come to know each other, since, and have become great friends. And one I've known for quite a while, and hope to know for many, many years to come, who has become of my best friends.

Here's to great friends, and good food. And an excuse to bring out my flask (which I've learned is a little socially taboo in public places--even if it's only filled with grenadine syrup).

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My goal today is to get out of my pajamas. Maybe before the kids get home from school.....

When C leaves town (yes, he is out of town again, this weekend), my motivation leaves with him. I'll have to tell him to let me keep it next time he goes.

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Here are some tunes.......if I can find my Ipod:

1. Like a Star - Corrine Bailey Rae

2. Conviction of the Heart - Kenny Loggins

3. Straight Tequila Night - John Anderson

4. High Enough - Damn Yankees

5. Love is Here to Stay - Harry "Sweets" Edison

6. Nothing - Edie Brickell and the New Bohemians

7. Good Enough - Sarah Mclachlan

8. Night to Remember - Shedaisy

9. A Horse with No Name - America

10. I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For - U2

bonus: Voilet Hill - Coldplay

Obviously, I need some new music. There isn't a song on that list that is less than 10 years ago (except the bonus song). I guess I'm just stuck on the 90's.

Pure Joy

Conversation with TJ.....

TJ: "Mom, you love me, huh?"

Me: "Of course, TJ, I love you sooo much!"

TJ: "And you liked me and KJ and Peter the best, so that's why you picked us out at the hospital to take us home, right?!"

Me: chuckling, "Yes, TJ, I liked you best out of all the babies at the hospital."

Today, I've had some of those rare, beautiful moments, when the rewards of Motherhood come back tenfold. There is something about spending time with my precious little monkeys that brings me absolute pure joy. I just love these kids more than words can express. My heart is brimming to overflow today.

April Fools.

Well, you guys are just no fun.

What's the fun in playing a joke if no one is going to believe me?

Phooey.

For the record: No, I am NOT pregnant. But, yeah, that would've been funny if I really was, and make you think it was just a joke, but really, I was pregant.

Too bad.

Surprise!