Day 48: Rain Fall

Today was the first rain fall of Autumn! I am very happy.

 I love the sound rain on the rooftops and the smell of wet pavement. 

They say there might be thunder, I say, "Bring it on!"

-Natalie

Day 47: The Dinner Party

Had a lovely time with lovely people. I don't usually come out of my cave, but I was glad I did this time. Good company and good food makes for a happy Natalie.

As always, 

-Natalie

Day 46: Ruffled

Yeah, you're probably tired of pictures of the sewing stuff, but I have class, what else am I supposed to take pictures of? Today's task was pretty difficult. We had to do 2-1 ruffles and 3-1 ruffles. It took the whole class to do and I didn't even get to finish :(. Maybe next time.

-Natalie

Day 45: He used the stars to guide his way

Finally got my hot drink for Stargazing!

We had this whole plan for a day hike and picnic, but we ended up being too lazy to do any of it. At the end of the day we didn't want to have stayed at home on a "holiday," so we decided to see the stars. I gotta tell ya, I definitely feel the seasons changing. We gotta remember to come better prepared for the cold next time... 10 layers ought to do it.

-Natalie

Day 44: Aisles of Smiles

Maybe it's because I don't like crowds or long lines, but I really enjoy going to the 24 hr. Walmart. I made a calendar plan of meals for the week and we bought meats and produce accordingly. By the end of our shopping excursion we were pretty knackered. 

-Natalie

Day 43: Isn't She Lovely?

Spent the day at the mall with my lovely cousin Claudia. She's a freshmen in high-school now, which just makes me feel old. It was nice walking around and talking about days past. It's crazy how many things she remembers from when she was little, things that seemed so trivial but became memories that she cherished. I'm glad I could be part of her happy memories as a child, and I hope I can continue to make happy memories with her as she continues to grow. 

-Natalie

Day 42: Whistle While You Work

Spent the whole day cleaning with Danny. You'd think with the amount of time I spent picking up the house would look half-way decent. Alas, that was not the case. Still have a lot of work ahead of me. No picture today :( I thought about it, but then I got distracted....

Oooh butterfly!

-Natalie

Day 41: So Darkness I Became

Ah, night! The time of day when Natalie comes alive, yet everyone else is tucked in their beds. It's not that I don't like sleeping, I just don't like having the day end so soon. I know that if I start going to sleep at a decent hour I might be productive, but It' so hard to break old habits. Plus, I like the silence and calm that the dark offers. 

-Natalie

Day 40: Dinner for 7

Mom and Dad are on a vegan diet for church, so we were invited to try one of the new recipes that my mom was trying out. It tasted really good, if not a bit spicy. I think I lost a layer of my stomach lining. Afterward, we played headbands and realized just how difficult children's games could be. 

-Natalie

Day 39: Lookkit What I Made!

Today's class when by so quickly, and I was working up to the last moment- badgering those unlucky folk around me about what exactly we were supposed to be doing. In the end I was very surprised it looked anything like what the teacher made. I'm happy I actually have something that looks like it can belong in a garment now ^_^

-Natalie

Day 38: In Memoriam

I did not know you, but I know a few of those that you left behind. I pray that your family finds consolation and may your soul know peace.

-Natalie

Day 37: The Vellekoop Hair Salon

Danny's hair was pretty wild and untamed, so he asked me to cut it for him. It's been three times now that I've cut his hair. Honestly, I think I'm getting worse as the time goes by. This time I left certain areas a little patchy, although he swears there's no telling. I need to find those Youtube videos again for a refresher. 

-Natalie

Day 36: Words, Words, Words

Sometimes, all you need is a good book to pass the time. Honestly, this book isn't going to win the Pulitzer any time soon, but it was really fun and quirky. I'm sad it's over now, but it was great while it lasted. And anyway, there's always the re-read to look forward to. 

Natalie

Day 35: Family Matters

My Tia Has been in the hospital for a couple of weeks due to low Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium brought on by her recent Thyroid surgery. I really wish I could be more help to her. She asks me what I went through and I find that many things are different. However, I think a lot of things are similar enough that it gives her hope. If I can give her something positive to look forward to, then I've done good, I think. 

-Natalie

Day 34: Sew Far Sew Good

Sad to admit, I've been waiting to use that title for a while *hangs head in shame*. Anyway, class was pretty intense this time. Had a bit of a time keeping up, but I think I got the gist of what we had to do. I know there are more difficult seams and things coming, but best not think of that lest I get overwhelmed once more. 

Wish me Luck!

-Natalie

Day 33: Designer Dan

Danny and I went Shopping! It was about time too. Danny's been needing some nice clothes for a while so I decided to take him to find something nice. We left the store with 2 pants, one tee and one button up. He looks really good in them <3

-Natalie

Day 32: The Girl Who Waited

For her ride to turn up after sewing class.... 

-Natalie

Day 31: Insert Picture Here

I was so tired, I basically spent the whole day on the couch. I really didn't want to take a picture of that, so you will have to use your imagination....

-Natalie

Day 30: Knock on Wood

So, we missed out of a day of Camping, but at lest we made up for it with a wonderful hike. It's really an amazing experience hiking amongst the Beautiful Redwoods. I'm glad I got to cross that one off my list. Will def. want to come back again!

-Natalie

Day 29: An Anniversary Adventure

Happy Anniversary to Danny and Natalie!

So, for our 5 year anniversary(wow times flies) Danny decided to go along with my crazy idea and make the long trek up the coast of California to go to the Redwood Basin. The road was long and tiring and half the time I was sitting in odd contortionist positions in order to ease the numbness.

 Our original plan was to camp under the Redwoods, but soon that plan was out the proverbial window when we discovered the campground was full. After many failed attempts at various campgrounds we decided to expand our search to include hotels... that worked just about as well.

After many failed attempts at finding a vacancy, Danny was finally able to convince a lady to double check if there were any spare rooms by telling our sob story ( I believe he made sure a single tear ran down his cheek). Miraculously, and she found a cancellation and we were finally able to rest. 

"Hallelujah" was all I could say, although I'm sure it came out a little more like, "Nggggh."

-Natalie

Day 28: Fun, Food, and Frienship

Had a fun time at the "White Party." I spent most of the time chatting with friends and attempting to dance while the DJ shuffled though songs. One of the high points of the evening was getting to see an old friend that I hadn't seen in about 5years, she's moving to Mexico soon, so it was nice to meet up again before she left. Overall a great night.

-Natalie

Day 27: Seams Good

Yeah, I know they're "hideous" *said in an Eskeleto voice*, but they're mine! I'm so proud of myself! I threaded the machine, made a bobbin, and caught up with all the projects. I'm feeling so positive about this class right now. Yay me! I should hold my own parade!

Would you join me?

-Natalie

Day 26: Look How They Shine for You

It's been a while since Danny and I last went Stargazing. The sky has shifted quite a bit and the constellations aren't as easy to find. Still, we had an awesome time in this little secluded area-- well, not technically since there were a group of like 4 guys there with their huge telescopes. I kinda wanted to go and check it out, but thought they might think my sneaking up behind them creepy...

Maybe next time, 

-Natalie

Day 25: I See a Pattern Here

Tracing and cutting out patterns is tedious, but essential....

So, I missed a important lesson last thursday and got chewed out a bit. It's okay though, I was able to at least keep up with the lesson. I nearly cried at one point, but I think I learned my lesson: you gots to be prepared. Anyway, I feel a little optimistic. Can only go up from here right? *knocks on wood*

-Natalie

Day 24: I'm dreaming of a White Party

 Spent most of the Day shopping looking for something white to wear for a party we're going to on friday. The theme is "All white and Mustaches" or something along those lines. My feet were killing me by the end of the day, but I was really happy with my purchases... now what an I gunna do about shoes...?

-Natalie

Day 23: Music in the Night

Sometimes, Danny and I just like staying behind after everyone's left the church and we pretend to be spirits haunting the halls with our disembodied voices.  Okay, so maybe that's just me... 

-Natalie

P.S. Happy Birthday Tio Jorge!

Day 22: Guess Who's Back!?

My Hubby finally came home from his Business Trip! It's nice to have someone around the house again. Now, I don't have to worry about carrying my samurai sword everywhere!

-Natalie

Day 21: The Soft Glow of Summer

As I was sitting at the computer I happened to glance towards the window and the way beams of the setting sun shone though my window made me pause. This picture doesn't capture the amazing orange colour but trust me when I say it was amazing! Sometimes, all it takes is a small moment to make a dull day memorable.

-Natalie

Day 20: Sleepover...of doom!

Since Danny's been gone I've been staying at home keeping busy (sometimes); however, my parents wanted me to spend at least one night with them to make sure I was ok. When I got there the little one was getting ready for bed. Sometimes that little girl creeps the heck out of me...

-Natalie

P.S. Still, I love her to pieces though

Day 19: Fall in love with Autumn

Spent the day tidying up and getting the house ready for Fall! Autumn is my favorite Season out of the year. it's usually not too hot nor too cold and the air has just enough bite in it to make you crave some Hot Chocolate and soup. Gotta buy some Cinnamon Apple scents to go with the redecoration now!

-Natalie

Day 18: Cooking With Nat

Spent the whole night making some new recipes. Home made Italian meat sauce and Espinazo de Puerco. Had to wait 4 hrs for the meat sauce alone to be ready. It took a long time to cook but def. worth the wait ^_^

-Natalie

Day 17: A Picture's Worth a Thousand Words

I went to Chicano Park today with my friend. I honestly didn't know what to expect, but what I found was a place immersed with history and heritage.

 The man pictured here is Arturo Ruano Singh and was retouching his painting that he made in the 1970s titled "La Huelguista". The girl next to him was the new model that he used. He said when he  painted her, he wanted to represent all the women that he saw working out in the fields. He wanted to represent the mothers and daughters. He wanted to represent his mother and his sisters. He told my me and my friend  that there was still so much to fight for and that we must never stop being "huelguistas."I am so grateful that I met him and that he shared not just his story, but a bit of mine too.

-Natalie

Day 16: All packed up

Danny after a long day of working on the closet. It's finally done, YAY! He's leaving me for a whole week, so I'll have the house all to myself. It's not so bad though, I have my parents literally down the street, and I've been offered a room if I get lonely.

 I might take them up on that offer by the end of the week. 

-Natalie

Day 15: S-D-S-U Aztecs Fight!

My hubby and I went to a college football game with the Molinas, a brother and sister duo that are pretty awesome. Food was overly priced, but the company and novelty of doing something out of the norm more than made up for it. 

-Natalie

Day 14: Mr. Fix it!

Finally getting it done! Woot, I'm excited. We took advantage of the fact that the closet had to be fixed, so we added a tie rack and are trying to figure out how to install lights!

-Natalie

Day 13: Thinking positive thoughts

Second day of class and I am a little overwhelmed. Today we cut out patterns and went over list of things we had to get/ do for the next class.  I'm such a newbie, but I'm determined to see this through!

-Natalie

Day 12: Knot very interesting?

Look what I made! It took a lot of trial and error, but I succeeded! 

Ok, I know this isn't the most exciting picture ever, but i totally forgot to take more pictures. I actually got pretty distracted trying to sort clothes after the closet completely fell apart.... I'll take pictures of the damage later. 

-Natalie

Day 11: Back to School

So, I totally remembered to take my camera to class today, but then I completely forgot to take a picture. Now, the only picture I have to post is me with a catalog that the teacher gave me (she was throwing it out). Oh well, better luck next time. 

On a positive note, the class promises to be very informational and interesting! Looking forward to Thursday!

-Natalie

Day 10: A Day Out of Town

After having been sick for days it was a wonderful change being outdoors- and boy was it hot! Anyway, it didn't matter because I had such a great time hiking with the awesome people pictured here. 

After our hike my hubby and I got an itch to go-a-explorin', and after a quick bite at In-n-Out we went to Palomar Mt.-- more specifically the observatory atop of Palomar Mt., which I had not been to since my all-day hike at 6th grade camp. 

All in all it was a really fun day!

-Natalie

Day 9: Retro Nat

Today, I had the option of staying home or going to church. I was pretty darn tired of being confined at home and in bed, so I chose the latter. However, since I was still feeling icky (still kinda am) , and I was looking pale (yeah, I know) I decided to put some extra colour on. That's how I ended up with this retro ensemble. 

I have learned that pretending that you're feeling better doesn't really work.. or rather, you can fool yourself, but those around you tend to notice when you start talking to inanimate objects....

later days, 

-Natalie

Day 8: Day 2 of Sick Natalie

The only good thing about being sick is someone taking care of you. And home made chicken noodle soup! Can't wait for this icky-ness to be over though...

-Natalie

Day 7: Siick!

What started out as a mild cough turned into a fever- I am not a happy person right now :(

-Natalie

Day 6: Over the River and through the 'Hood

To Grandmother's house I go!

So, every Thursday after work, I go to my grandmother's house for some lunch/dinner and good conversation. I love that lady!

-Natalie

Day 5: Movie Night

Watched the Hunger Games and discussed all the things that intrigued, amused, and confused us.

My main question is: Why would the careers ever trust Peeta, when he's banking on all of Panem believing that he's head-over-heels for Katniss?

Oh well, good night, and may the odds be ever in your favor.

-Natalie

Day 4: Summer Bounty

Ah, Fresh fruit on a hot summer day! I recently bought this pineapple corer and have been itching to use it for some days now. My hubby finally bought me a pinapple and I couldn't be happier. Yeah, doesn't take much to please me.

-Natalie

Day 3: Birthday Blooms

 I got these flowers for my mom, not knowing they were the official flower for August. Here's what "1st in flowers" has to say:

The gladiolus is the birth month flower of August, bringing luck to all births in August. Symbolically this flower signifies remembrance, infatuation, and strength of character. Its name comes from Latin's "gladius" meaning "sword" for its sword shaped leaves.

 Happy Birthday Mom! 

-Natalie

source: http://www.1stinflowers.com/fom_august.html

Day 2: A Trip to the Moon

Stargazing and looking to the moon. "One small step for man..."

 R.I.P. Neil A. Armstrong

 August 5, 1930 – August 25, 2012

-Natalie

Day 1: A message from a loved one

I wanted to start a blog where I post one picture a day. I really don't know how well I will be able to keep up with it-it's pretty ambitious and I'm a known slacker- but I will do my best.  My thoughts were to just put a picture about things that stood out around me in everyday life and see how that adds up in a year.

So, here's the first picture: A small message written out for me by my 7 year-old niece on her DS:

"tia nata isint' jost mai tia shis may frend"

<3 It's gunna be pretty hard to top that one <3

-Natalie