On the road again!

And so begins another holiday. Wahoo!!!

First and foremost, a big birthday shout-out to the most fantastic cambodian princess there ever was....KELLIE!!!! Miss KK, hope you had the most fantastic birthday! Can't wait until you are back in the states in a few short months!

Now, for a little play-by-play.

We are currently rolling down the road, jeep packed to the ceiling. We look like we are moving out, and we have placed all our belongings (every belonging)....in the vehicle. Straight up Gypsy style. I feel like I am reenacting a scene from christmas vacation....but instead of placing items on the roof of our station wagon, we decided to place them inside. I am reporting from the back seat, while Jay and Eric are manning the front. I have approximately 24 inches of space to sit, and about 5 inches for my feet...so needless to say, there will be no moving around. (Thank goodness we only have 1.5 hr trip.)

Really looking forward to my 4 day weekend. Much needed! However, I'm sure it will go way too fast. But, good news.....another 4 day weekend is in my future! Next weekend I get one as well! Yay for paid holidays! (My job should really consider installing a 4 day weekend once a month, for employee moral. Just saying, lol)

Jay unfortunately has to work on Xmas eve. So he will get to experience life on the road this weekend. And while I'm sure he is not very excited about it....at least we will have this weekend to split up some of the traveling to everyone's houses (what I like to refer to as: the grand tour of central ks), instead of conquering it all in one day.

For all of you who's holiday destination is but afar, stay safe! May you all have the merriest of Christmas travels!

Rock Chalk!
The Corbetts :)

Reindeer Food

One of my few (more like 20) christmas projects has been to make some reindeer food for my lil friends. And, while there has been some confusion on what actually makes up reindeer food, the kind I made is not to be consumed by your child (that's my disclaimer :) )

Here are my supplies:

I mixed together bird seed, glitter, and quick oats (see....not for consumption, except reindeer lol)

Then comes the cute lil tag and bow. Ta-da!

Can't wait for all my lil friends to get to use it on Christmas Eve. I am trying to post the PDF of the tags incase you would like to make some of your own. Quick, easy and oh-so-cute :)

Rock Chalk,
Jenna

Hello....slacker

Sorry for the lack of posts, friends. We have had a crazy December. And over the next two weeks, I'm sure it won't get any better.

I spent a couple of days last week on my death bed. So fun. I'm really surprised Jay hasn't come down with it as well. After 2 days, I then got to play catch up at work. More fun :)

We are getting ready for/participating in all of our Christmas festivities as of late. Spent last night on a Christmas Lights tour for my work. (I'm totally paying for that today. lol.) Wrapping presents, finishing up shopping, finishing up making some gifts, making goodies. All of which will need to be completed by the end of this week.

Oh and then there is this Thursday, where I get to have 2 wisdom teeth ripped from my body. Who schedules this a couple days before Christmas? Me. Ugh. SOOO not looking forward to it (and that's an understatement)

On a brighter note, we leave for Vegas in a month to celebrate my cousin Josh's 21st birthday! Yay!

And so begin another crazy December week. I love Christmas, but I have almost reached that point where I can't wait until January so I can take a deep breathe and catch up on....uh....life :)

Back to wrapping :)
Jenna

TGI...BS

There is this beautiful thing that happens around this time of year.  The air gets colder, it starts gets darker earlier, Christmas music/decor begin to surface, and last, but certainly not least, floor burns.  Yup, floor burns.  Thank God it's Basketball Season :)

I love college basketball.  No NBA nonsense here friends, straight up college basketball.  NBA is too flashy and arogant for me.  I love the raw-ness of college basketball and watching 18-22 year olds develop into amazing basketball players. The ups, the downs, buzzer beaters, triple doubles, assist-to-turnovers, cinderellas, rivalries, love.it.all. 

And while I definitely love my Jayhawks the best, I will watch any team.  I become quite mezmerized by it.  I like to coach from my couch (or a foot from the tv, depends on who is playing, and lets be real, my team needs me, lol)  Jay has discovered on many occasions, that if you try to speak to me while my game is on, I will turn up the TV to drowned you out.  It's like indirectly saying "um, can't this wait until halftime?!?".  Yup, I'm that girl.  Hell, I even upgraded our TV downstairs b/c "I need to feel like I'm there".  So, if you call me in the middle of a KU game, yes, I most certainly am ignoring your phone call.  I'll call you back when my game is over, lol.  :)

So....Cheers to the best time of year!  Here's to a season full of Jayhawk victories, and hopefully a BIG Jayhawk win in the Georgia Dome on April 8th.  Rock. Chalk. Jayhawk.

~Jenna  

Through the fields we go...Shopping all the way...

It that time again!  3rd Annual Christmas Shopping trip!  What a wonderful way to spend your Saturday/Weekend. 

Shan and I do this every year (hence, 3rd annual, lol), and its always a splendid time.  Usually our destination is north and east, but this year we are getting a little crazy, and heading south.  OKC here we come!

I have a few people on my list that, honestly, I have no clue what to get them.  (Then there are some people that I knew months ago.) I'm willing to accept the challenge, however.  Kinda like a "no gift receiver left behind" policy :)

This is what I love about giving gifts....I love to listen to them and figuring out something that they will LOVE.  Sometimes its too easy (my mother, lol). I inherited my shopper's soul from my mamma, so a good portion of our convos involve "i saw something here and it was so cute.....have you been in this store in a while....omgoodness i saw the most amazing deal here". Haha...too easy, probably for her too :)

So, let the madness begin!  Shoppers beware, we are on the loose!  Reporting tomorrow on all shopping shenanigans :)

Swipes & Sales,
Jenna

Here comes Santa Claus...

So there has been quite a bit of chat around my work area about Santa. Yup, the big guy in fuzzy red attire, with transportation powered by venison (one of which posses a nose that apparently works like high beams). I love Christmas time and all that it encompasses, including Santa. And honestly, people get nicer around Christmas. What's not to love, right?

Well, let me just throw this out there...In my house, Santa exists. He comes annually, and is not the "drunk creepy man with a fake beard at the mall". Nope, that guy does not visit my house...Santa does. Some of my favorite Christmas memories as a child involve going to church at midnight mass, and being nervous that Santa wouldn't realize I was at church, and come while no one was home. (or even worse, we would catch him upon our return and he would run off and forget to leave my presents!) Then not being able to sleep because of the excitement. There were multiple times where I would have sworn I heard him.

Then waking up! Ah! Running downstairs to find out what he left. I don't know why, but I vividly remember getting a Pool Table and Super Nintendo. The excitement of children on Christmas morning is not something that can be duplicated without the help of that jolly old man. I don't care what you say.

So with that said....The thought of Santa not existing has never even crossed my mind. Sorry to those of you lack the desire to believe in him. Enjoy your coal. There is something magical and exciting about believing in Santa, something that will forever exist in our household. No. Question. About. It.

We might not have children yet, but we have two "girls" and yes, Santa visits them. They patiently wait under the tree most evenings (and I assume, most of the day). For the record, he visits because they believe. Until next time...keep believing :)

Corbett World Tour

Hey friends!

A little recap on this crazy place we call "life".

After a crazy traveling adventure touring the great state of Kansas, we made it full circle and are back to the grind. 

Last Thursday, we got up and drove to Ottawa to celebrate Thanksgiving.  Such a fun time.  My family happens to be blessed with a ridiculous amount of great cooks.  (No exaggeration). Nothing but fabulous food met our plates Thursday afternoon.

A bit of food, then we headed to KC to gamble at the Argosy.  My family (about 13 of us) all got room with intention to gamble the night away and hit it big!  And while the BIG winners were sparse, still a fantastic time :). I would be up for every year with that little adventure.  Just saying.... :)

Then, Friday it was off to "the bend".  Christmas decor, projects, visits, dinners, etc helped my weekend fly by.  (So much so, that I wouldn't be opposed to another Thanksgiving break). Poor Jay had to work Friday, so he really racked up the miles.  Such a trooper for driving all over God's green earth to participate in all Turkey day activities.

So here we are,  back to normalcy for the most part.  Really glad I did my Christmas decorating early, because I have spent the last two days playing catch up with my energy. 

And with that said, I'm off to bed.  Until next time....

Rock chalk,
Jenna

Winter Wonderland come November

Okay, so I know some people call it crazyness....decorating for Christmas before Thanksgiving, but honestly I love xmas decor.  Like, really love it.  I love twinkly lights...uh....everywhere.  So, when it comes time for it....I want it up as long as possible.

So, out comes the decor this last Monday.  Jay said I couldn't do it this past weekend.....so I did it Monday.  (hey, it's not the weekend, lol)  Anywho, with us traveling all over God's green earth to visit everyone for Thanksgiving, that would eliminate a few days from having my decor out.  Can't have it.  Unacceptable :)

And so....the final product for your viewing pleasure (and for the record, this did not come off Pinterest, this is Jenna's creativity)

Above the living room:

Jayhawk Christmas Tree...Rock Chalk!:

Above Kitchen Cabinets:

Mantle (pretty proud of this. Recycled some wedding items...notice the 'C'? That's our cake topper. Genius, right? I know!!! :) )

Blogging on my way to KC tomorrow. See ya then!

Rock Chalk!
Jenna

Skinny Minnie

Hello Friends!  And Happy Monday!

Can you believe Thanksgiving is only a little over a week away?  Time to put on my game face, kids.  Time to get Skinny Minnie :)

Once upon a time, my lovely friend Shan provided me with this pretty awesome diet plan.  It's not drinking maple syrup, eating cookies all day, or living off pinto beans.  Actually it's far from any of that.  It honestly boils down to eating healthy, really healthy, for 10 days straight.  (and no, I'm not living off cabbage, either, lol)

So, I don't know if you have seen the picture below, but I honestly believe in it 1,000%.  And, it just so happens that it aligns very much with my diet for the next few days.

I truely believe, if you eat healthy, then you don't have to spend 70 hours at the gym (which works perfect for me this week, b/c I have a lot of baking to do.) I do actually eat pretty healthy most days.  I watch calories, and try not to go too crazy.  There are some days when I love sugar, and then I get to visit the gym :) BUT I like to keep those days to a minimum, lol.

So, with that being said, I wanted to share my progess.  I actually started this on Sunday, so I do have a bit of progress to share already.  And, what is also great is, since it's posted, I'm accountable.... :)   

Day 1 (11/12/12 A.M.):  Down 1 lb
Day 2 (11/13/12 A.M.):  Down 2 lbs
Day 3 (11/14/12 A.M.):  Down 0.6 lb
Day 4 (11/15/12 A.M.):  Down 1 lb
Day 5 (11/16/12 A.M.):  Down 0.6 lb
Day 6:(11/17/12 A.M.):  Up 0.2 (consider this a win, yesterday was thanksgiving pot luck at work. Anytime you can escape Thanksgiving with only 0.2 I consider a win)
Day 7: (11/18/12 A.M.): Up 0.8 (uh...yeah...bad Jenna....bad bad Jenna :) )
Day 8:  (11/19/12 A.M.):  Up 0.2 (seeing a trend? )
Day 9: (11/20/12 A.M.):  No change
Day 10: (11/21/12 A.M.): Up 0.2  (ugh, defeat...
Total-to-date:  Down  3.8 lbs (honestly not bad, but I had a two day patch where I was definitely slacking.  The key to this...is plan ahead...if not you will end up like day 7)

(I'll update this post daily with my new numbers)

PS.  For those of you thinking this is crazy and it will come back the moment I go back to eating normal, it actually works pretty well, and you don't gain 10 lbs, on day 11.  However, if on Day 11, you hit up every item on the McDonalds dollar menu, I'm sure it would. lol  So I guess the success with this diet would depend on how health you choose to be once you are complete :)

Here's to a great Tuesday weigh-in!

Rock chalk,
Jenna

Craisin Bliss

Did some recipe testing tonight, and folks, the results were phenomenal.  So tighten your seatbelts kids....and come along for the ride :)

Today I learned about a cranberry bar that they supposedly serve at Starbucks.  Whhhaattt???  I apparently need to visit Starbucks more than I do.  (My frequency of Starbuck visits might improve, if I actually drank coffee. Yeah, that would probably help)  However, I am learning about all these lovely things.  First it was Caramel Apple Spice (like Apple Cider on Crack...so amazing!  Thank you Tiffani!) and now this!  Maybe I should window shop and I wouldn't be left in the dark about all these great items that life has to offer.

So these Cranberry Bliss Bars.  After about 3 seconds of googling....found it! Once upon a time Taste of Home must have discovered their delightfulness and recreated them.  (I am a firm believer in all things Taste of Home, these folks know what they are doing)  These bars are like um.....a delightful explosion of deliciousness in your mouth.  :)  Yeah.  They are that good.  And I have only tried the edges!  I'll try the real deal tomorrow when I share these will all my co-workers!  Here they are in all their glory:

So if you wishing to experience them go HERE for the recipe.  You won't regret it.

Rock Chalk,
Jenna

Good Evening from the Polls!

Welp, after checking on the lines about 3 times today, I decided at 6:30, its probably not getting much shorter.  So here I sit...waiting.  Lucky you, as I bring you live action from the Park City polls! 

All I can say is that if it were much colder, I'm not sure I would be as dedicated.  Not that I don't believe voting is important, I most certainly do.  However, this is one time when living in a small town is a BIG advantage, but apparently Park City is not small enough. 

I've currently waited about 10 minutes, and still haven't made it in the door, nor can I see it....Awesome.

So what's the most important thing I'm voting for today besides a president?  Boat tax.  And while I don't currently own a floating vehicle, who knows what my future holds.  ;). All I know is if one day I do, I sure as heck don't want to pay $1000 a year for taxes on it.  Then I would have to register it in another state to save $900, claim partial residency.....and honestly, that sounds like a hassle.  So for the sake of Jay's future toy selection, here I stand. Lol

Oh there is also this big deal about fluoride in the water, but I'm 99% sure Park City doesn't get to vote on that...big deal in Wichita though....

With that being said, hope you all cast your vote today.  It really is fun, so even if you hate politics (me), do it for the experience. If you didn't make it today, there will be another not too far in our future :) So do it.  If not for you, for those who fight every single day so that you can.

And in case you are wondering, I made it in and out in 45 minutes.  I guess it could be worse....

Rock Chalk!
Jenna

Corbett World Tour

Well, we survived the weekend in GB! I think we even managed to see/visit everyone, which is a feat in itself.  And now that it's 9:15 on Sunday evening, I'm trying to figure out where our weekend went.  Thank goodness in 5 short days we get another :)

A little "Karlin Krafting" time on Saturday was a real fun time.  Knocked out a bunch of projects for gifts.  Ate some delicious soup made by my Gram.  *and in case you were wondering, my cooking skills ultimately stem from her*  Did some chit chatting.  We started around 10am, and didn't stop until around 3:30.  Just four ladies "krafting" the heck out of a Saturday :)

Then, Saturday evening, we started our Tour of Central Kansas, which ultimately ended when we arrived back in the ICT at 6:30 tonight.  We usually come bearing goodies, and this weekend was no different.  I love making food for others, and fully believe the way to someone's heart in through their stomach.  I mean... who doesn't love a good sugar cookie?!?! 

So after all the sugar cookies have been delivered, and I'm sure most have been consumed, we are exhausted.  Like considering bedtime at 8:00 exhausted. Thank goodness I cleaned Friday before we left, because I have no desire to do anything. Once again, we are getting a preview of elderly Jay and Jenna.  So sad. So, so sad. :)

Oh and Happy Daylight Savings time!  Gosh... I love sleeping in an hour later, I'm just so darling at it, lol!

Rock Chalk,
Jenna

Witches, Warts & Wednesdays

Ps.  They were *NOT* happy about this.



Have a Rock Chalk'n Halloween!
Jenna

A visit from the tooth fairy...

Tooth Fairy visits have historically been a time of excitement....surprise....income!  Well ladies and gentleman, how I wish I could flash back to my childhood, because the adult version of the Tooth Fairy just lands you a visit to the oral surgeon, and what I can anticipate will be, a hefty bill.

Not too far in my distant future will be the best time ever *sarcasm*, as I will get to have my two remaining wisdom teeth removed.  After a week of dealing with swelling and inflamation, I decided I couldn't take it any longer.  Eviction notice served...bu-bye wisdom teeth.  If my intelligence is tied to these two teeth, as their name suggests, I guess I'm willing to take the risk.  At this point my "wisdom" says get them removed....and quick!

I have already been thinking of items that my "Tooth Fairy" can get me to help with the healing process.  These include (but are not limited to):

• Strawberry or Hot Fudge Shake from Dairy Queen
• Caramel Apple Spice from Starbucks
• Potato Au Gratin soup from Cinnamon's Deli
• Snowball (Icee, for you non-Hays folks) from QT
• A Scarf (not for healing purposes, just because they make my heart smile, lol)
• Magic Mike......haha KIDDING :)

Tomorrow I get to find out when I have to go in, either for a consultation, or to have them extracted, so wish me luck!  The sooner they come out, the sooner the healing begins!

Rock Chalk,
Jenna  

Frozen Links

Good Morning!  A little Jay story for your Saturday...

Yesterday, Jay text me and said he was going to head out and go golfing today, and honestly, I was just hoping he didn't mean me too *and he didn't, so not to worry*.  While I really do enjoy golfing (I apparently inherited some golfing ability from my dad), I'm a fair weather golfer.  ACTUALLY I'm pretty "fair weather" about most things, except Jayhawks....always a Jayhawk fan (even during football season). :)

So this morning, at about 8:45, Jay, and his buddy Tim, headed out to hit the course, bundled up about 3 layers deep.  Supposedly, they were headed to Heston, but I'm pretty sure most tee times were open just about anywhere today, b/c at 8:45 this morning, it was a scorching 37 degrees. Lol

I have yet to hear a peep from them, but golfing at 8 am on a Saturday, in near freezing weather takes dedication.  I cant wait to hear if they still think this was an awesome idea when they are done. I just hope they at least grabbed some schnapps, on their way up, to keep them warm.  :)

My Saturday morning is filled with cleaning, gym, and Jayhawks (all indoor activities with heat, might I add).  Golfing in the freezing cold is making cleaning.... look PRETTY awesome ;)

Rock chalk,
Jenna

New Girl Love

My favorite show, by far...is New Girl (followed by Reba, who comes in a close second).  So Tuesday's are usually fantastic, except when the Presidential Debate comes on and, unfortunately, takes the New Girl time slot (uh...rude...Wednesday's seem like far better days to argue, just saying.  lol).

If you haven't seen it, just watch one episode.  One is all it's going to take to get ya hooked.  It so funny, awkward, and quirky, all at the same time :)  There have been so many times I have been laughing so hard, I have tears.  It definitely gets the "Jenna Stamp of Approval".  If you don't think it's funny, it's because you hate sunshine and giggles, and have sadness in your heart.  Simply put, he he :)

Tonight's episode was hilarious.  I was that weird girl at the gym who had to stop running, because she couldn't stop laughing.  Oh and speaking of gym, 9 days straight!  Woot woot!

I have a busy baking week the rest of the week, so you probably won't hear from me again until Friday.  1/4 sheet cake, 6 dozen cookies and German Chocolate Brownies, all for Friday.  Really looking forward to the weekend :)

Oh and before I forget, Happy Birthday to my MIL Jeanie tomorrow!  Jay and I hope you have a fantastic birthday!!!

Rock Chalk,
Jenna

Fall Fotos

If you saw yesterday's post, we gave Shan's fancy camera some exercise on Saturday.  (Thank you again, Shan!) I just wanted some pictures with the gorgeous fall leaves.  AND I wanted to practice my photo editing skills (although Shan took such fabulous photos, it was pretty easy :) )

 Just a lil appetizer from our "Fall Foto" sesh... 

See ya'll tomorrow!
Jenna

Weekend Wrap-up

Hey Kids!

Just a little quick rundown on our weekend...

Saturday:
I don't know why, but Saturday seems like it was soooo far from today.  Must mean it was a successfully fun weekend ;)

Gym time, Freddy's date, Shan took some fall pictures of us, Clint & I had a dance off, watched some college football, and played some cards.  (And just for the record, Clint & I took down Shan & Jay in a heated game of pitch.  I did a victory dance for like 5 minutes after!)  And yes, my Jayhawks lost again.... (Shocker.)

Sunday:
Got up early to make some goodies for my Uncle Dewey's birthday bash, Cleaning, Birthday Party, Pumpkin Carving Contest (Yup, won that too!  Victory was flowing through my veins this weekend, lol) Groceries, Gym....and now, here I sit.

I'm pretty tired, but I just wanted to mention a few things:

{One}  Taylor Swift's New Album comes out tonight @ midnight (ET).  And....I will be purchasing it.  Just got about 35 minutes left.

Yes, I love Taylor.  I am mezmerized by her song writing abilities, and respect the fact that she isn't in and out of rehab.  I know quite a few people don't like her, or the fact that she writes about ex-bf's.  Ummmm..... if I had the ability to slap a few words together about some guy who did me wrong, AND make a hefty chunk of change doing it.....I would too. LOL.     

{Two}  I have been to the gym 7 days in a row (yes 7!  Awesome, Right?!?!?)  My total gym time in the last 7 days: 6 hrs, 43 minutes.  I have some cookie/cake orders later this week, but I'm hoping to not have to skip any days this week either.  Extra Calories/Fat, your eviction notice has been posted, he he.

Have a great week!

Rock Chalk....
Jenna

Four Square: Fantastic Fall Friday Finds

So it's Friday, AND it's the middle of October, AND it's payday.  This can only mean one thing....

Fall Wardrobe Update!!!!

Man, I love clothes.  I love layering.  I love fall colors.  I love scarves (I think we have talked about my love of fall items before, so you get the drift).  So, I did some major Pinterest research Thursday night.

What? What was that?  You are not familiar with Pinterest?....Ohhhh I guarantee you that you are.  If you have ate any new dish that your wife/gf/friend has made in the last year or so, 97% chance it came from Pinterest.  It's like God's gift to people who just like "stuff".  What kind of "stuff" you ask?  Whatever your little heart desires.  I honestly don't know a single person who doesn't like "stuff" :)

Back to where we were.  So, here is how my research went down:
1.  Log on to Pinterest
2.  Go to my "Clothes" Board, which ultimately is a wish list for when I have an extreme amount of cash flow and a closet the size of my entire house.
3.  Dream....dream....dream....some more dreaming.  *Then I snap back to reality.*
4.  Find 3 outfits that I can't live without, that scream "JENNA!" (Pictures below.  I definitely have my own style, which usually involves lace & floral....combined)
5.  Online research at my favorite stores
6.  Plan my assault.




Now here is the tricky part.  I let my lovely friend/co-worker talk me into going over lunch.  (It didn't take much to convince me, lol) Lunch shopping trips are a dangerous thing, my friends.  DAN...GEROUS.  I don't know if its the rushed feeling you get deep down inside, or what, but you are guaranteed to spend too much cash over lunch.  Do youself a favor, and just don't leave your desk.  I have actually grounded myself from lunch shopping trips for a while, because of this very reason.

BUT.....Today, I made out like a bandit!  Like a slithery little snake (not sure what I am talking about?  google "slithery little snake", and watch the video)  I ultimately came home with this (a few items I picked up after work):

• Denim button up shirt
• Black denim skinny jeans
• Sweater that buttons up the back
• Mustard colored cardigan (searching for months for this!)
• Leopard skinny belt
• Leopard flats
• Maroon racer back tank
• 2 short sleeve v-neck (mint & brown)
• 2 scarves
• 4 tanks (red, olive green, black, maroon)
• Couple of necklaces

Now.   I know what you are thinking.  Holy....Hannah....Jenna just went off the shopping deep end.  Well, maybe, lol. (Part of it's that darn lunch time shopping, I tell ya.)  But to my defense, I bought all these items for under $150.  Not too bad, eh? 

I'm so excited to sport all my new threads!  Like, want to put them on now, but it's like 10 p.m.  (tomorrow for sure...even if I never leave the house, I will look so stylish veggin on the couch!)  Thank you Pinterest virtual dream closet for assisting me in my stylish adventure!  My fall wordrobe dreams have come true!  (LOL)

Until we meet again, Rock Chalk!
Jenna

Helllllllooo Tuesday

One.  I can't believe we have already passed the halfway point of October.  When then heck did that happen?!?  Uh, and Thanksgiving is a little over a month away...whaaaatttt??????  I need to start trying all these great fall recipes on my Pinterest, before Fall passes me by!

Two.  Something really amazing happened today at work.  *Drumroll please....*  We were awarded 3 extra paid Holidays!!  Yes, three.....not one....THREE!  I feel like hell just froze over.  (Now, if we could just get Jay to get those same days off...we would be in business.) 

As of this afternoon we get off:

• Friday, November 23rd
• Monday, December 24th
• Monday, December 31st

I am really glad they gave us all these days off, because honestly, I doubt much would get done.  (I think most people are still in a turkey coma the day after Thanksgiving.)  Working the day after Thanksgiving is painful, done it before, and would be okay never doing it again.  I can imagine working Christmas Eve and New Years Eve this year would be a similar experience.  But, I guess I don't have to worry about that anymore.  (I see a lot of  holiday baking in my future, YAY!)

Oh...AND...for Boss's Day...I got a really great blinged out mouse (like for the computer, not a rodent).  Guess that makes two great things at work today :)

Three.  I have been so productive this week without any baked good orders.  I feel like it should be Friday with the amount of stuff I have got done.  Every now and then you need a week like this one just to catch up.  AND I have already been to the gym twice....which makes my heart smile.

Four.  Really been working on my sewing project (the ruffle throw).  And while I am not complete...I am like 33% done.  Can't wait to see what it's going to look like completed, because it is already looking so great!

That's all for today!  Until next time...

Rock Chalk,
Jenna

Babysitter of the Year

Friday night I watched our friend's children while they celebrated five years of wedded bliss with Larry the Cable Guy.  So Friday, at six o'clock, I headed over to the Chamberlin's... loaded with ice cream, sprinkles, whipped cream, oreos and chocolate syrup. (hehe)

Honestly, I'm that girl.  That girl that teaches them all the stuff to help them succeed in life.  I believe I have been referred to as "best babysitter ever" by a few of my adoring clients. :)

Want me to teach them how to make that weird noise when releasing air out of a balloon? Sure, I can do that.  Want me to teach them how to shoot Redi-whip into their brother's mouth?  Absolutely.  Oh, and want me to buy them bathtub crayons, so that one day, you can teach them the difference between a shower wall & living room wall? Not. A. Problem. 

Without me, your children's survival skills would be at an all time low.  My friend's really should send me a big thank you for teaching their children all those things they just can't teach them in school.

Yes, I know that my day is coming for me.  (My friends remind me, frequently.)  And one day, my children will come home from Aunt ShanShan's or Aunt Tiffy's and say "They let us eat chocolate gold fish for dinner."  I get it.  But honestly, it hasn't deterred me.  We can deal with that ship when it sets sail. :)

So, for all you reading this, who are in desperate need of a babysitter next weekend, I'll shoot you my contact info.  I would hate for your children to miss out :)  lol.

Rock Chalk,
Jenna

Cake Block

Just as journalists get "writers block"...cake decorators sometimes experience "cake block".

I was asked to do a 16th birthday for my friend's sister, who I was expecting to want some crazy, animal print, neon color, topsy turvy birthday cake.  Sooo not the case, my friends.  See...Miss Danielle is having a "barn dance" for her birthday, and so.... what was her birthday cake request, you ask?  Country. 

I honestly don't know why it was so hard to for me to translate "country" into a frosted masterpiece, but it was a *REAL* struggle.  I googled, pinterested, pinterested some more (yup, "pinterested" is a verb in my world, just like "jumping" or "swimming", lol) Still couldn't think of anything.

 

Now, let me clear a few things up.  I do live in the city,...but I know country.  I know dirt roads, bonfires, tractors, cows, wild sunflowers, floral print, cowboy boots, etc. I also *love* country music and I know all the words to ALL the songs (At this point is where Jay would interject and say "Uh...no you don't."  My response?  At times, I freestyle, :) )  I am a city girl, however, I am a city girl in Kansas....these are just things you get exposed to.

Back to where I was.  I think my struggle was trying to not make it look like "Velma's 90th Birthday", or a little boys 1st birthday cake....and make it fun enough for a 16 year old.  So that's when I found a picture of some orange and red flowers and decided I would let my creativity guide me through this cake.  No plan, no drawing, no picture....just decorate as you go.  I decided to "wing it". 

I have done this before, however, I'm pretty sure my friend was a little nervous when I told her I didn't have a plan....except to figure it out as I went.  What resulted from my "cake freestyle" was so great.  I hope the birthday girl loves it as much as I do. 

Here is something fun that I haven't done before.  I documented each step of my decorating process so you all could see how I go from almost the beginning to the end.  Enjoy :)

Ta Da!


Rock Chalk,
Jenna

Hairstyle A.D.D.

If anyone knows me, they know I usually never get my hair cut or colored the same.  I've been like this forever...and I like to call it "hairstyle A.D.D.".

I think it may have to do with my slight (or maybe not so slight) Pinterest addiction.  I see all these cute hairstyles/colors, and ultimately, change my mind daily.  At any rate...I went and got beautified Wednesday night...something new of course...and I really love it.

For your viewing pleasure....  (please focus on my hair and not my 'washed out, end of day' look)

Kitty Hawk

In-state rivalries become a confusing time for our pets.  It's hard to explain to a feline why we don't like "cats" or "wildcats".  (However, when the neighbor cat swings by to say "hi"... I'm pretty convinced they don't like cats either, lol) 

 

Please say hello to our "Kitty Hawks"...Benjamin & Otis :)

 

On Saturday, my poor Jayhawks got their booties handed to them on a silver platter, with a side of wing sauce.  *Ugh*  To their defense, they did at least score (which I wasn't sure was going to happen before the game started).  I was pretty proud of their performance in the 1st half, but we fell apart in the 2nd.  It was pretty ugly, and hard to watch.  (I even heard my 9 year old cousin ask if there was a Mercy Rule.....ouch)  Apparently, their are quite a few more kinks to work out before we head back to a bowl game :)  But, you have to start somewhere, right?!? 

Next, up........Oklahoma State at home.  I'm hoping we can make it to the 3Q before we fall apart.  (I would prefer not to fall apart at all, but I am okay with baby steps at this point).  Once again, here's to a hopefully better performance Saturday.

Still Rock Chalk'n,
Jenna

Happy Fall Y'all!

I'm a big fan of fall.  BIG fan.  The temperature, the colors, the food, the smells, football, the clothes (mostly scarves & boots), etc.  Sign me up.  (AND who doesn't love a good Caramel Apple Spice from Starbucks?!?!?)

One of my most favorite things to do during fall is redecorate!  (Man, I love decorating!)  Honestly, my house looks so much better during fall/Thanksgiving/X-mas time.  After that it takes a nose-dive and becomes boring again (My spring/summer decorating needs help, badly).  But this past weekend, we busted out all the fall decor and brought our house...back to life!

A few photos.  Prepared to "Ooooo" & "Ahhhh" :)

Mantle Before (eh...):

After the "Fall Refresh" (Oooo....Ahhh):

Kitchen Before (ew...):

After the "Fall Refresh" (Oooo....Ahhhh):

Just a few more things to spruce up and we will be done!  Already feeling a lot better about our pad.  Now, if I can just keep our fur balls from chewing on all our new, fun, exciting stuff... 

Rock Chalk,
Jenna

Date Night Inside/Out

Happy Sunday to ya!

A little recap of our Saturday night.....

We hardly ever go out and sit down at a restaurant.  Jay doesn't like to be seen with me in public (haha, JK!) I honestly can't remember the time we did (uh....maybe our honeymoon? Sad. Really sad.)   So anyways, last night our plan was to go to dinner and hit up a movie.

I'm really glad that Jay and I are on the exact same page most days.  I have really been wanting to go to Cheddar's, but it's always so dang busy.  (Never been?  Go.  AND order a strawberry pina colada.  You won't be disappointed.)  So I asked, "Where do you want to go eat tonight?"  Jay's response...."um....I was thinking Cheddar's"  HALLELUJAH!  I felt like I had just won the jackpot!  Well...close.

We only had to wait about 20 minutes (I consider that a win at that place), ate some great food and lived on the edge a bit.....we ordered dessert. (Jay knows the way to my heart).  I could honestly skip the meal and head straight for dessert, but sometimes, that's frowned upon. :)

We got done and realized we had like 2 hours until our movie.  Uh....so we killed some time.  Ran some errands.  Great.  Now what?  We still had one hour. 

Well kids, that's when "Senior Citizen Jay and Jenna" set in.  We decided just to go back to the house and watch a movie in our own "theater".  I think we were asleep by the time the movie we were planning on seeing in the theater was over.  The way I see it, saved some $$, got to watch a movie in a more comfortable fashion, and got to meet the elderly people we are going to be someday, lol.

Well, there you have it.  Back to finishing up some really great projects I have been putting off.  Enjoy the rest of your Sunday!

Rock Chalk,
Jenna 

Middle Schooler at a Bieber Concert

So tonight, I embark on a journey...a journey into the great world of  *drumroll please* Ruffles!  Ruffles?  Yes, Ruffles.  This is one of the most exciting nights I have had in quite some time (kinda like when Romy & Michelle attended their reunion-actually I have never seen that movie, just pieces, so that may be a bad reference).  This is the first Friday I have had in a while where I get to do, what I want to do.  And that my friends, is ALWAYS going to be crafting (or drinking wine :) ).   

See a little over a month ago, I was having a typical evening, pinning anything and everything, and I came across this. 

And, ladies and gentleman, I fell in *love*.  Like...hardcore-middle school girls at a Bieber concert-nervous giggles-can't think about anything else... love.  The only problem: I was about to conquer 3 wedding cakes, and so it had to make it's way to my "must-do" list (more like a "must-do-ASAP!" list).  That about killed me because, patience is not always my strong suit.  But today is finally the day.

I know the odds of me completing this project tonight is next to impossible.  (I'm not guaranteeing that I'm not crazy enough to try--I am a bit of a night owl)  But, I will be closer to completing it than I was yesterday.  I'll post pictures once complete, so get excited! 

Ooo and big day tomorrow!  Sunflower Showdown!  If my Jayhawks could pull off what seems like the impossible tomorrow, it would make my Monday with the wildcats I work with SOO much sweeter.  Here's to hoping!

Rock Chalk!
Jenna 

Survival of the September

Let's be honest.  I have no idea what just happened in September.  It is all a crazy blur.  Somewhere in there, we attended two weddings (Congrats to the new Pelfrey's and McCreedy's!), celebrated labor day, completed and audit at work, celebrated family birthdays, etc.  I feel like it was August & 115+ degrees out, then I blinked and it was October. 

See, this crazy whirl-wind of a September, starts with me.  Hi.  My name is Jenna.  And I make cakes. :)

What kind of cake, you ask?  Wedding, Birthday, Strawberry, Chocolate, Tiered, Sheet, and everything in between.  Sometimes, I make a LOT of cakes.  And, so was the case in September.

775+ servings of cake later (oh, and don't forget the 600+ mints and 100 or so cookies) and *Poof* hello October.  (AND, in case you are wondering, I have one oven.  Just one.  Not too shabby, right?)  By the time I was done with my last wedding cake, I was exhausted.  I really loved making them.  They all turned out beautifully... and...with no catastrophies. But, great news is: I think most of our friends/family are now married, or at least for the next couple months. :)

Oh, and a shout out to my baking assistant, Jay.  He gets the less glamorous part of the of the baking world...Dish Sanitation Specialist...aka clean-up.  He really is such a trooper.  Most of the time he sweeps in and starts cleaning without me having to ask *Now, now ladies...easy...he's taken*  :)

So, now on to one of the many wonders of the world (or at least for my family and friends): "Why do you work?  You should just open up a bakery." 

Well, long before I dreamed of making anything more than ramen noodles, I became an Accountant.  I spent 5 year in college to become an accountant, and I'm pretty decent at it.  I have worked all the way to Accounting Manager and I don't think I'm ready to give up a salary, and free weekends, and 8-5 (well most days 8-5), paid vacation, etc.  At least not right now. (weird that people aren't saying "Why do you bake?  You should just be an accountant"...they must be hungry, lol)

So there you have it... my September in a nutshell.  Here's to a less crazy, awesome October.  (And to all my fellow Tigers, Happy Oktoberfest! *jealousy right here*)

Rock Chalk,
Jenna

Oh...why,hello there!

Fancy seeing you here!

So I bet you are wondering, why on earth is this girl blogging?  Doesn't she have a million other things to do? And...she forced me to read this...why? (actually I prefer "campaigning" or "suggestive persuasion" other than "forced", lol)

Well, truth is...I have no idea why I'm blogging (last night it sounded like a fun time).  And yes, I do have about a million other things to do, but that's the beauty of it.  See, this forces me to sit down for about 20 minutes or so, which most of the time...is impossible for me to do.  ("Multi-tasker" is an understatment for myself.) Then I can go back later and find out what I did....like...yesterday, in case my short-term memory kicks in. :)

So, I've been thinking all day...and I really wanted to kick things off with a bang.  Like a big "4th of July Extravangza!" or the "Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" or the "Victoria Secret Semi-Annual Sale!" (he he) But after analyzing my life, I realized there aren't too many things in my neck of the woods that stack up to the "VS Semi-Annual Sale" type of excitement.   But, not to be discouraged, there are plenty of crazy shenanigans for me to share. 

So to ALL my adoring fans (which, at this very moment, is....well...we won't go there until after my campaigning kicks in) a little "get to know me" session.  

Jenna's F.F.s ("fun facts" to the non-Dane Cook fan):

1.  I'm a huge Jayhawk fan.  And while I didn't attend The University of Kansas (FHSU Tiger right here, woot woot!), I do think that is is one of the greatest places, not only in Kansas, but in the whole.wide.world.  In our household, it's refered to as "God's Country".  Feel free to use that term when refering to it in your household, as well :)     

2.  My father wanted to name me Susan.  Yup, you read that correctly. Susan.  I firmly believe I am the farthest thing from a "Susan".  And while, I love my dad with all my heart, thank God for my mother veto'n that suggestion.  Please, husbands, use this story as a lesson in the importance of consulting your wife when naming your child.  (he he)

3.  I am a baking/cooking fein.  I guarantee my oven has seen more hours than 3 of my friend's ovens combined.  Cookies, cakes, casseroles.  You name it, I'm there.  My friends/co-workers are the most frequent to benefit from my love of baking & making.  I love trying different recipes.  That, my friends, is inherited from my mother :)

4.  My husband and I have been together almost 6 years, and married about 4 months.  I feel like, at this point, he has had plenty of opportunities to opt out, but he choose not to (so now it's his own fault, lol)  We have 2 girls that possess fur and a love for meow mix.  Their names are Benjamin (or Jellybean) & Otis.  And to clear up some questions burning in your mind:  Yes, I know they have boy names.  Yes, I knew they were girls when I named them.  No, I don't care (Technically their girl parts are gone, AND if you knew them, their personalities match their names...promise)

5.  And last, but certainly not least: I love to laugh. (There is nothing more that I love than a good giggle).  Movies, TV shows, e-cards....only ingredient necessary: hilariousness.  And, I heard laughing is decent exercise.  So...I get to have a great time AND work on my skinny (win/win!)  (Not to brag, but....my friends and I, we are pretty hilarious...or at least we think so)

So there you have it.  First post in the books.  Feel free to come back for more,  because their is plenty more where all that came from.  But until we meet again: Stay Calm, and Rock Chalk On.

Jenna

P.S.  Yes, that took me longer than 20 minutes.  :)