Writer's block

Lately I have suffered from writer’s block. I have sat down to write quite a few posts recently only to delete them before posting. I know few people read this blog, and that no one is on the edge of their seat waiting to hear from me, but still I have had a hard time writing. I don’t know where to start. Life has been busy, not exciting, but busy and I haven’t had anything to write about. How do I push past the writer’s block and start posting again?

Memorial Day Weekend, better late than never...

I realize I am a bit behind the time on this post but I have been busy, so better late than never, right?

We spent memorial day weekend in Utah and it was AWESOME! My wonderful father-in-law invited us to Utah for the weekend and we of course jumped on the opportunity to head home and see everyone. We had an amazing trip, we went to the temple, ate dinner with some good friends (hunters we miss you already), played ticket to ride, had some of Di's delicious pizza, and hung out with family (oh yeah and I got a pedicure (first one ever) but that is another story). It was so nice to see everyone, we miss you all and cant wait to see you again soon!

we bought all the kids special texas shirts, yes the brainwashing starts early.

the group picture failed miserably, but arent they adorable!

Wasabi Peas Rock My World

Several weeks ago I rediscovered wasabi peas. For those of you unfamiliar with this odd snack food these are exactly what they sound like- dried peas with wasabi on them, needless to say they are delicious! After I rediscovered this unusual gem i remarked to Brian how wasabi peas rocked my world to which he asked, "I thought I rocked your world?". I didnt know what to say to that... husbands arent comparable to wasabi peas. So Bri this is what I should have said:

You rock my world more than wasabi peas, peppermint chapstick, orange lemons, fresh basil, Morning Edition, and Tide pens. You are more awesome than cheesy Brad Paisley songs, Mac computers, hot and sour soup, America's Test Kitchen, and my cohort (sorry guys). I love you more than I love stealing your gym shorts, sleeping in, Walmart, routines, and the West Wing. You rock my world- happy 4th anniversary (last week).

This Public Health...

I really love public health (as if the MPH didnt tell you that). I am currently working in a position where there is no public health. I work with 8 other people (recently dubbed the "Divine 9") and they can tell you ph is spreading like wildfire in our office. I offer ph related comments every chance I get (much to their disappointment), offer helpful and not so helpful health advice, and force everyone to use hand sanitizer. Today I was given the nicknames "PH" and "Clorox"- while I am not the biggest fans of these nicknames all I have to say is "this is public health". I may not be saving the world at this moment (dont worry I will be soon), but I am preventing disease one sanitized hand at a time!

NPR in the morning...

This morning as I was driving to work I heard and essay on NPR about modern feminism. The author asserted that modern feminists should reject "antiquated" traditions in an effort to elevate the status of women. The "antiquated" tradition she chose to focus on what the tradition of women adopting their husband's surname after marriage. The author asserted that those of us that have chosen to drop our maiden names have somehow lost a part of ourselves, and have placed ourselves in the role of the "lesser partner". I will admit that when I first chose to change my name I did feel like I was missing something- there was something about changing my name that caused and identity crisis of sorts (for several minutes). In my case changing my name was part of the transformation from single life to married life, what I felt I was missing was my life as a single person. I didnt drop my maiden name when I got married. I decided that there was too much history, culture, and identity to lose it all together, instead I just tacked on another name. I dont go by two last names, i just go by Brian's, and I dont feel like on any level that makes me less of a capable person or equal partner. I dont think my children will be tramautized because their parents have the same last name, i dont think my coworkers think less of me because I choose not to use my maiden name. I dont think going by my married name had inhibited my academic or professional prospects. I think changing your name is a personal preference and should be treated as such. I am appalled by women who push their personal view of feminism on others, claiming that those that embrace a more conservative view are treated as second class citizens. Please leave me alone, I am a capable person despite my name change!

Cutest Pictures Ever!

I saw these ADORABLE photos on my sister-in-law's blog and had to share them. Since most of you have seen them already, and think these kids are too cute, I thought you might not mind seeing them twice.

Sorry I stole the pictures Di, but I had to, and you saw it coming when you posted them!

*PS we get to see these cute munch-kins in a week and a half!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Supremes

This is the best episode of the West Wing.... and it just happens to be timely.