Day 97... Happy New Years EVE!!!!!

So heres an overview of 2012...

January 2012

Payne and I had our 2nd Wedding anniversary...

I started working back at the Coors and I-40 Fantastic Sams with Cyndee as my manager. I learned so much from here when it came to barbering. Thanks Cyn!

February 2012

I turned 24. I also became a color trainer at Fantastic Sams.

March 2012

I realized I hated working where I was.

April 2012

We decided that we were supposed to move back to Utah. I hated that decision. But so far its been a good one... I think...

May 2012

Cyndee left back to Kansas City, Anna became my manager and then left shortly after which both leaving made me really sad.

June 2012

We took a much needed vacation to Denver! First time in a long time we actually had a stress free vacation. I worked at the Montano store and hated every minute of it. This furthered my hate of my job and made me reevaluate if it was really worth it.

July 2012

The third store of Fantastic Sams opened and that sealed the deal on my hate for the stores. I love doing hair but I was there so much or doing something for them on my days off that I never had time for myself. Or for my husband. We decided it wasnt worth it anymore... Fat Jack turned 6.

August 2012

I stepped down as all my titles at Fantastic Sams. The owners almost lost it and almost fired me because I refused to work under the conditions that were set.

September 2012

Nothing really happened

October 2012

I QUIT!!!!!!!! The happiest day of my work career at Fantastic Sams. I also started this blog and a cooking up a storm.

November 2012

Moved to Utah again. Theres alot that happened... But I dont want to talk about it.

December 2012

I got a job at the Fantastic Sams in South Jordan and I guess I like it. I met one of my really good friends there! She knows who she is. I also met my best friends new husband. Payne turned 25. We had another Christmas together without our closest family. I decided that I might pursue a new career. But first I have to get certified!

In conclusion

This year was not my favorite at all but I really was glad I had my husband by my side. He really is my strength and my rock. Im glad that I had my parents there for support in more ways than one.

So...

Heres hoping that 2013 is alot brighter and filled with new experiences...

Day 93

So heres some fun recipes that you might want to try...

Zabar's Black And White Cookies 1 3/4 cups sugar

1/2 pound butter

4 eggs

1 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 teaspoon lemon extract

2 1/2 cups cake flour

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

=== FROSTING === 4 cups confectioners' sugar

1/3 cup boiling water - to 1/2 cup)

1 ounce bittersweet chocolate

In a large mixing bowl combine the sugar and butter until fluffy. Add eggs, milk, vanilla and lemon extract and mix until smooth. In a medium bowl, combine flours, baking powder and salt.

Add dry ingredients to the wet in batches, stirring well. Drop soupspoonful of dough 2 inches apart on buttered baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees until edges begin to brown, 20 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely.

To make frosting, put confectioners' sugar in a bowl. Stir in enough water to make the mixture thick and spreadable. Remove half the frosting to the top half of a double boiler over simmering water. Add chocolate and warm the mixture until chocolate is melted and the frosting is smooth. Remove from heat. With brush, coat half the cookie with chocolate frosting and the other half with white frosting.

This recipe yields 2 dozen large cookies.

Heres another one too...

RED LOBSTER CHEESE BISCUITS

This recipe was found in a newspaper

2 C buttermilk baking mix (small box, Jifcfy Mix equals 2 cups)

2/3 C milk

1/2 C shredded cheddar cheese (extra sharp?)

1/4 C butter

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Preheat oven to 450*.

Combine mix, milk and cheese with a wooden spoon until soft dough forms. Beat vigorously 30 seconds. Drop dough by heaping tablespoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8 - 10 minutes until golden brown. Combine butter and garlic powder; brush over warm biscuits before removing from cookie sheet. Serve warm. Makes 10 large biscuits.

Per serving: 170 calories; 10.2 g fat (4.4 g saturated fat, 54% calories from fat); d21 mg cholesterol; 370 mg sodium; 16.1 g carbohydrate.

And then theres this one...

Outback Steakhouse Bloomin' Onion

Batter

* 1/3 cup cornstarch

* 1 1/2 cups flour

* 2 teaspoons garlic, minced

* 2 teaspoons paprika

* 1 teaspoon salt

* 1 teaspoon pepper

* 24 ounces beer

* 4 vidalia onions - # Cut about 3/4 inch off top of onion and peel. Cut into onion 12-16 vertical wedges but do not cut through bottom root end. Remove about 1 inch of petals from center of onion (You can place the cut onions in cold water for a few hours to help "open" them up -- be sure that you drain them well).

Seasoned flour: combine all and set aside

* 2 cups flour

* 4 teaspoons paprika

* 2 teaspoons garlic powder

* 1/2 teaspoon pepper

* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne

Creamy Chili sauce- Combine the following & Refrigerate for 2 hours

* 1 pint mayonnaise

* 1 pint sour cream

* 1/2 cup tomato chili sauce

* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne

Outback Dipping Sauce: combine the following,mixing well & refrigerate

* 1/2 cup mayonnaise

* 2 teaspoons ketchup

* 2 teaspoons creamed horseradish

* 1/4 teaspoon paprika

* 1/4 teaspoon salt

* 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano

* 1 dash black pepper

* 1 dash cayenne

Dip in seasoned flour and gently shake to remove excess.

Separate petals to coat thoroughly with batter.

Gently place in a fryer basket and deep fry at 375-400 for 1 1/2 minutes.

Turn over and fry 1 1/2 minutes more or until golden brown.

Drain on paper towels.

Place onion upright in a shallow bowl and remove center core with a circular cutter or apple corer.

Day 83

I know that Im not doing my best to keep you up to date on our daily happenings. I apologize. Things have been so different lately. I feel like Im walking blind through life right now. Weve received help from people and places we would have never expected. I dont know if its the holidays looming around the corner or that Utah is just full of people that are more willing to give but it has been so overwhelming. I dont think its appropriate to air them all out on here because they are personal and I dont want to do that but I will say this, Heaven has sent so many angels our way. I recently got sick with Walking Pneumonia and have had several days to lay in bed a feel bad for myself and for our situation. But then it hit me last night. Whats wrong with me? I have had so much given to me and I take it for granted. I should be praying for those families in Connecticut who lost those precious little kids. I should be volunteering on Christmas rather than sitting at home because we cant be with our families. I should be so grateful for the job that I do have instead of complaining about it when I know that theres people out there who cant find a job. I should be thankful that Payne is working and has a job that has health benefits and got accepted to BYU. So on my quest to do better Payne and I "adopted" two angels from the Christmas tree at his work. We dont have our own kids so we thought this is a way to Pay it forward and take care of two kids this year. Im so excited to go shopping for them.

Day 77

So Its been a week and Im so sorry I havent been around. I got caught up with my new job and the commute alone is killing me. Also I have a new favorite show thats consuming me as well. Its a guilty pleasure... Queer eye for the straight guy. Its so funny and good. I kind of like the humor. So I have a few recipes Ive been working on and I will have them up for you soon. Thanks!

Day 70

So Im obsessed with my new bag! This is what it looks like!

I traded shoes in at www.justfab.com for it! YAY!

I love this website because its fun and theres alot for everyone!

Day 68... Recipe Time

So I made this recipe but I decided to croc pot it up! So heres what I did.

Winger's Sticky Fingers Recipe:

1 lb. frozen chicken strips

12 TBS. Frank's Hot Sauce (It has to be Franks Hot Sauce, no other sauce will taste as good)

8 TBS. water

3 c. brown sugar

Sauce: Heat hot sauce, water and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, until sugar is dissolved. Pour sauce over chicken and set croc pot on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6 hours. .

I seriously ate this all by itself. ITS SO GOOD!!!!!!!!

Day 68

Day 64

I don't know where to start today... So here goes nothing... I am still applying to LDSBC for January. I know that some people in my life think its a bad idea for me to go back to school the same time as Payne. They think that I should work full time and put him through school and pay all the bills. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy working for the greater good of our relationship but I have worked so hard for the last three years of our marriage and I am really tired. I want to continue my education and learn again. I hate all the jobs I have applied for and interviewed for and gotten. I know more than the people I work for about hair. I just don't know all about how to make a business run. I know how to treat employees but not how to run payroll. Its beyond annoying not knowing everything and have some douche bag owner act condescending because they have a business degree and I went to "Hair School". Well guess what?!? I have more creativity in my pinkie toe than you could ever conjure up with your stupid business degree from some university.

That picture right there is how I feel about those fancy diplomas. They're a dime a dozen. Did you know you can make (or fake) your own?? Because I all had to do is Google "college diploma" and like five million pictures popped up. Now you're probably thinking that I'm being a hypocrite because I'm bashing these fine gentlemen who have degrees when I just told you I'm going to go back to school to get one. I'm thinking of only two people when I talk about business owners. But due to exposing them for the awful people they really are and in the off chance they come across this blog I am preserving they're identity. Now this picture right here is what Im dreaming of. This salon is beautiful. I want mine to be amazing. I have big dreams and I am not afraid of them. My husband has taught me to not be afraid. I know what I have to do. Now its time to do it...

Day 63

I really really really need a different job... I hate mine. Just so you know...

Day 62... And its a tasty day!

Lets talk COOKIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hahahahahahaha... I love COOKIES! And Christmas time makes me think of all the delicious deserts. So here goes what I am planning on my goody menu.

Brown Sugar Sugar Cookies

Andes Mint Cookies

Now lets talk about this weeks dinner menu....

Monday Night

Armadillo Potatoes

I like these because there is little prep time and they are delicious! To go along with the Armadillo Potatoes were having Left over Spicy Honey Chicken.

Tuesday Night

Honey Garlic Pork Chops with Homemade Mashed Potatoes

Wednesday Night

Sticky Fingers with Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Thats all I have for now but Im so excited to get cooking. Im making the Brown Sugar cookies tomorrow so that I can snack all the rest of the week on them!!!!

XOXOXOXOX Jordan

Day 61 again...

So I got crafty today! Here we go...

This is the tree skirt I made...

I made this tree topper instead of being traditional...

This is the topper on the actual tree...

Here is the link to the tree skirt directions... I decided to do just one color fabric instead of using burlap...

http://doneoverdecor.blogspot.com/2011/12/ruffle-tree-skirt.html

I saw the Letter Tree Topper on Facebook. I went to Hobby Lobby and picked out the style letter I liked and then picked a paint color to match my Christmas decorations. I love it!

Day 61

Guess who has an interview with a school to teach?! Im so excited! I cant wait!

Day 60

So Its been a little while my little people! But I've been really busy and yesterday was Thanksgiving. That makes today Black Friday. Which is also the day Payne and I put up our Christmas tree. Right now the Christmas music is playing on Pandora, the scented candles are burning, and the tree putting up business is in progress. But What I want to talk about is Black Friday. Did you brave the madness like I did? We went to Walmart at 8pm last night with only one purchase in mind. A vacuum. I know its a little weird to want a vacuum but seriously people... It was an insane deal. Its normally $40 and I got it for $9. HELLLLLLLOOOOOOOO! Cray Cray! Then we tried to go to Target but that ended up in a bust. So we went home for the night. This morning Ali (Paynes sister) and I went to Old Navy and to the mall. We got tons of deals at Old Navy and ended up with matching hoodies! Then at the mall I bought the bowls Payne wanted from Tai Pan Trading. Can I tell you how much I love that store?? Its the best. I told Ali if I had money to burn I would burn it there... I love stores like that. Theyre for decorating and making your living space more livable. So I stepped away from this post for a small minute because I was busy shopping some more!

We just finished the tree for the moment. We still need a matching tree skirt and a star. But heres a pic of what it looks like right now.

I decided last year just didnt feel like Christmas because of all the blue we had. Red just kind of symbolizes Christmas to me. And for some unknown reason Payne really likes gold. So thats kind of the direction we went.

I love Christmas music. Its emotional and spiritual. Its the only time of year I can continuously listen to classical music and not get annoyed. Pandora has an excellent station to listen to. They are playing just a little bit of everything. I know that this post lacked recipes and craft ideas but I just thought I needed to focus on the chaos and what follows it. And to share my Christmas tree. XOXOXO

Day 52

So today I had a chance to hang out with my friend Adrienne and go to City Creek in Salt Lake. We also went to Ikea... I forgot I had my camera but I did get a few Pictures. This first one is of Me and Adrienne with Mrs. Frost. At City Creek theyre doing story time and have different characters.

This is a picture of Adrienne with the trees that are on the bridge over the road connecting the City Creek Mall.

This is me and Adrienne

This is the view looking down on the street from the bridge

And this is Adrienne at Ikea

I just thought I might share those with you! I cant wait to go back and do some serious Christmas shopping!

XOXO

Day 51

So I started today at my new salon! I am excited because I can finally run things the way I have always visioned. But thats not what I have been thinking about. Ive been thinking about the crafty scratch I have that is SCREAMING to be itched! So I found this little diddy and I think I want to do it...

http://fabricbliss.blogspot.com/2011/05/do-this-i-painted-couch-last-week-or-no.html

Ive seen a bunch of couches similar to this one but I didnt know how to make them look cool. Low and behold here we go. Also here are a few things I will be working on as well...

http://adiamondinthestuff.blogspot.com/2011/06/mr-mrs-picking-sides.html

http://221vision.com/2010/10/21/diy-ballard-designs-bench/

http://newlywedmcgees.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-upholstered-ottoman.html

http://welcometoheardmont.com/2010/05/tutorial-diy-curtains-from-a-bed-sheet/

I cant wait to get going.... I love being able to start over and do cute things. Oh also if you have a Habitat for Humanity ReStore hit them up! Weve bought paint and brushes and rugs and two pub chairs from there. Oh and curtain rods and random odds and ends. I love it because its for a good cause and you can write it off on your taxes and you get a steal of a deal. Also Ive been hitting up Desert Industries (Im now located in Utah) and Savers (if you have one you have to go almost every day! I get clothes and all kinds of fun stuff there). Also if you are in the Utah Valley area... go to www.ksl.com they have stuff listed on their classified section all the time. Okay I gotta go do something. Good Luck in your crafty scratching! XOXO

Day 50!!!! OH MY GOSH 50 DAYS IN!!!!!!!!!

So its Day 50. I feel like ive hit a milestone. Also I was informed today that I am now employed! But I also feel like crap. I wish I was in bed right now but here I am wide awake waiting for Payne to get off work so I can go pick him up. Im so glad my job is only from 9-6 Monday through Saturday! So part of the reason I feel like dying is because I had a gigantic tooth pulled.

Day 48

Atleast I hope today is day 48. So here we are... I updated the blog a bit. But I need your input. Do you like the new picture? Do you like the music gadget? Do you like the fact that you can share me? Do you like me at all? Nevermind... What do I care?! You can leave if you dont like me! Oh did I mention were rocking out at our new apartment with another day of NO HEAT!?! And the high here in Happy Valley, UT is 30 degrees. So I made some broccoli beef yesterday. It was delicious! I will post the recipe later. Im in a funky mood and feel like just running my mouth for a minute. So I went to go get my hair cut yesterday and I love it! What is it about New Mexico and NO ONE can cut hair there? Its really not that hard. Ive never met a more untalented group of stylist than I did working at Fantastic Sams. Now mind you there are a few who are really good but they get ran over by an owner who really isnt caring. And then they get burnt out. And then they either get their hours cut horribly or they quit or BOTH! Now Im no business owner but I do think that that is bad business. You should be building up your team instead of tearing them down. Okay. Rant over! LOVE YOU!!!!XOXOX

Day 46

So yesterday after dinner I was sitting on Netflix watching a movie when BAM! My tooth chipped. So Payne made me go to the dentist today (because I am beyond terrified of the dentist). They took their stupid xray after several times and several time of my body threatening to puke all over them. I don't know what it is about my gag reflex but no one ever believes me on how bad it is... Until they try to shove an xray thingy in my mouth. Upon receiving the xray they discovered that my cute little wisdom teeth are coming in perfectly straight... What does that mean you ask?! Thats right... They're pulling two teeth instead of one. Oh Joy... But the mean old dentist suggested that they sedate me due to my little gag reflex. So come Monday when I pop the sedation pills and have amnesia if I'm not making any sense blame it on the ah ah ah ah ah... ummm DRUGS!!!!!!!! Oh and heres a little snack of happiness... I have recently become a lover of all things thrift store and the likes. So Payne stumbled upon this song... He said it was written just for me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=QK8mJJJvaes

I promise its funny but I will warn you it swears alot and especially says the "f" word. I know thats not the best but the idea is hilarious!

So I just read the lyrics... Here they are...

[Hook: Wanz] I’m gonna pop some tags, only got twenty dollars in my pocket I’m, I’m, I’m hunting, looking for a come up, this is fucking awesome [Verse One: Macklemore] Walk into the club like what up? I got a big cock Nah, I’m just pumped, I bought some shit from the thrift shop Ice on the fringe is so damn frosty The people like “Damn, that’s a cold ass honky” Rolling in hella deep, headed to the mezzanine Dressed in all pink except my gator shoes, those are green Draped in a leopard mink, girl standing next to me Probably shoulda washed this, smells like R.Kelly sheets, piss But shit, it was 99 cents, buy it, cop it and washing it ‘Bout to go and get some compliments, passing up on those moccasins Someone else has been walking in, bummy and grungy, fucking it I am stunting and flossing and saving my money and I’m hella happy That’s a bargain bitch, I’mma take your grandpa style I’mma take your grandpa style, no for real, ask your grandpa Can I have his hand-me-downs? Velour jumpsuit and some house slippers Dookie Brown leather jacket that I found digging They had a broken keyboard, I bought a broken keyboard I bought a skeet blanket, then I bought a knee board Hello, hello, my ace man, my Miller John Wayne ain’t got nothing on my fringe game, hell no I could take some Pro Wings, make them cool, sell those The sneaker heads would be like “Ah, he got the Velcros” [Hook 2X] [Verse Two: Macklemore] What you know about rocking a wolf on your noggin? What you knowing about wearing a fur fox skin? I’m digging, I’m digging, I’m searching right through that luggage One man’s trash, that’s another man’s come up Thank your granddad for donating that plaid button up shirt ‘Cause right now, I’m up in here stunting I’m at the Goodwill, you can find me in the bins I’m that sucker, sucker searching in the section Your grammy, your aunty, your momma, your mammy I’ll take those flannel zebra jammies, second hand and I’ll rock that motherfucker They built a onsie with the socks on the motherfucker I hit the party and they stop in that motherfucker They be like “Oh that Gucci, that’s hella tight” I’m like “Yo, that’s fifty dollars for a t-shirt” Limited edition, let’s do some simple addition Fifty dollars for a t-shirt, that’s just some ignorant bitch shit I call that getting swindled and pimped, shit I call that getting tricked by business, that shirt’s hella dough And having the same one as six other people in this club is a hella don’t Peep game, come take a look through my telescope Trying to get girls from a brand? Then you hella won’t, man you hella won’t [Hook] [Bridge: Wanz] I wear your granddad's clothes, I look incredible I’m in this big ass coat from that thrift shop down the road I wear your granddad's clothes, I look incredible I’m in this big ass coat from that thrift shop down the road [Hook]

Day 45

So today has been ok. I guess. But its not ending well. I have to go to the dentist tomorrow! I cracked a tooth. Did I mention I'm terrified of the dentist? Because just thinking about it is making my palms sweat. So I guess I will let you know how it goes tomorrow! YUCK

Day 44

So its been 10 Days since I last posted and about a bazillion things have happened. We are now settled (for the most part) in Provo, UT. We've had fun trying to find me a job at a salon. Payne started at the Olive Garden in Provo and then landed himself in urgent care because he was sick. So today they started him on a "Z Pack". I interviewed for a position at Craig's Cuts today and I REALLLLLLLLLLLY hope that I get the job. I want to start right now! I hate not having a job. Its killing me to not be productive. But anyways. I love our new apartment. Our landlord is amazing as well. We really got a steal of a deal. If it sounds like I'm running in a million different directions with my thoughts I am. I'm very stressed out about our financial situation and I'm not sure what to do. Or even if there is really anything I can do right now. I feel so helpless. I'm trying so hard to understand why I am going through this trial but I don't know how much more I can handle. Oh yeah... I think Payne passed his nasty little bug onto me because I feel like crap. Oh and the cookies have 3 minutes left. No they're not homemade or any special recipe I found online or made up on my own. They're premade that I picked up with 6 lbs of 75%off Halloween candy. Can you tell i'm slightly stressed and somewhat depressed?!?!?!?!

Day 34

Hello! Sorry its been a few days. I was in Farmington visiting my family. But Im back. I took today to relax and do nothing because the next 5 days are going to hell. Im going to be packing and cleaning like a mad woman. Im moving to Utah(for those of you trying to figure out what the hell Im talking about) in a matter of 5-6 days depending on how you look at it. And in those days Payne will be spending the majority of his time at work making sure we can afford everything. After we get settled I will be back to my normal blogging. That also means you will see all the projects I have been working on and furniture I will be re working. Thanks for being patient! XOXO Jordan

Day 31

So I am excited to share this little link. I am going to be making this as soon as I can scrounge up the money to make it.

http://newlywedmcgees.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-upholstered-ottoman.html

Thats all today! XOXO

Day 29... Again!

I made delicious cookies today to take to the girls I visit teach. This is what they looked like before I baked them. YUMMMMMMMMMMMMMY!

Yummy Eggless Pumpkin cookies! These are great because they are edible before you bake them! So heres the recipe...

You take a box of white cake mix, 1 15oz can of pumpkin (not the filling but actual pumpkin), 1tsp of cinnamon, 1 tsp of nutmeg, 1Tbsp of sugar. Mix together in a bowl till completly mixed. Spoon onto a cookie sheet(I sprayed mine with cooking spray just to be sure they wouldnt stick to the pan.) Bake at 350 degrees for 15-17 minutes.

Simple as that! I used a cream cheese frosting to frost them with and dusted them with some nutmeg. YAY! Enjoy!

Day 29

So Im going to go all hair stylist on you. I found theses on another blog but felt they were important to share. The one with the baking soda should only be done once a week to clarify the hair...

Homemade Hair Treatments For Damaged Hair 1. Avocado Deep Conditioner Hair Mask- Using 1 small jar of mayonnaise and 1/2 avocado. Mix all ingredients, smooth into head being careful to work it to the ends, Use shower cap or plastic wrap to seal body heat in and leave on for 20 minutes.

2. Mayonnaise Your Hair - Apply 1/2 cup of mayonnaise to your dry hair, work in really well, cover your head with a plastic wrap, and let it set for about 15 minutes.

3. Olive Oil Hair Mask - Combine 2 tablespoon honey and 3 tablespoon olive oil together. Apply thoroughly and then cover with plastic wrap and set for 15 minutes. These beauty tips and treatments are great on any type of hair and safe enough for those with sensitive scalps as well. Homemade Shampoo

4. Baking Soda Hair Cleansing Mud – Mix 1 heaping Tbsp. of Baking Soda and 3-5 drops of essential oils of your choice (lavender, patchouli, rosemary, sweet orange are some of mine:not necessarily all together) with enough water to make a paste. Mix this in the shower. It took a little getting use too, with there being no suds.

5. Natural Chemical Free Shampoo – Use these three ingredients and use as a natural DIY shampoo, ¼ cup distilled water ( deionized water is ok ), ¼ cup liquid castile soap ( I use unscented ), and ½ teaspoon jojoba, grapeseed or other light vegetable oil.

6. Chamomile Fields Shampoo - Let the tea bags steep in 1 1/2 cups of boiled water for 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags and with the remaining liquid add the soap flakes. Let stand until the soap softens. Stir in glycerin until mixture is well blended. Pour into a bottle. Keep in a dark, cool place.

More Home Remedies For Hair Here are several more tips on homemade treatments for damaged hair over on the Hair Care Tips blog. Drinking a lot of water, to keep the body hydrated and lustrous. Regular use of olive oil, to help control damaged frizzy and dry locks. This remedy can either be used directly on the head, or quantities of it can be increased in a diet. After washing, apply a small amount of silicone serum should be applied to the head, which repairs the damage. Jojoba oil should be applied mainly to the ends to make it softer. This home remedy can work wonders with frizzy and dry locks. Damaged hair should be deep conditioned thoroughly at least once a week.

I like all of these because Ive budgeted out all my spending money on hair stuff. When youre moving you have to pinch pennies somewhere and my hair budget got hit. Heres another little diddy...

By using this simple banana hair mask recipe it will increase the amount of moisture in the hair and help to soften curly hair leaving it full of life and bounce. This is also a very effective treatment to help manage the effects of dandruff as well as relieving an itchy scalp.

2-3 ripe bananas (mashed)

2-3 tablespoons honey

Mix ingredients together and apply to damp hair

Massage each strand, roots, and scalp to ensure complete coverage Cover hair with a shower cap or cling wrap and leave in for approximately 30 minutes Rinse thoroughly then shampoo and condition as normal

I hope this helped yall! XOXO

Day 28

So here it goes... I hated today. I have hated the last week. I hate constantly feeling sick all the time. I feel helpless all the time. I feel bad for Payne because he is working so hard for us to move and its killing me to not be able to stand for very long. Im trying to do all that I can but its next to impossible. I wake up every day hoping to feel just a tiny bit better but its never true. Im up long enough to cook a meal for us but by the time its done Im ready to pass out again. Have I ever mentioned how amazing my husband is? He takes the most amazing care of me. And he puts up with all my issues. He deserves a medal! Husband of the year material right here ladies and gents. I made these cool burgers tonight but I think I should have more to add to them. I am so not in the mood to talk about it. So i guess I will see you loves later...

Day 27

So Im back to laying on the couch and feeling like death again. WHY ME?! I guess its good for you all because I can consistently keep up with my blog. So here is what I am obsessed with today...

http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2009/12/silver-leaf-dressers.html

Once we get settled in our cute little apartment in Provo I plan on going on a massive craft binge. Im hoping my cute sister in laws want to do some crafting over Thanksgiving weekend. Or atlease help me organize my chaos. I am after all making dinner. LOL! Anyways... This lady has lots of fun ideas and understands the need to craft on a budget. Here she is...

http://www.centsationalgirl.com/

Look what else I just found.

http://twoontwooff.blogspot.com/2012/05/duvet-tutorial-or-make-your-own-damn.html

I think I will have to do this as well. But instead of using buttons, because I HATE BUTTONS, I would use Velcro. Thats it for today yall. XOXO

Day 26

I love Fat Jack. We spend way too much time together. Being sick lately has made us bond alot. Weve discovered that Jack looooooooves Animal Planet... This is him watching it today...

Weve had him for over a year now so he fits right in. Just like Payne he gets mad at me everytime I try to take his picture.

I love it because he has such an attitude. We got Jack to keep me sane when I am home by myself. Im weird about being alone and I have Jack to talk to. And trust me, He talks back. I always try to get videos of him talking and as soon as he hears me turn on the app on my phone he freezes up. He must be camera shy. Also Jack has gotten to the point where hes putting up with me annoying him. The other day I got him tied up in my scarf. Im sure I posted this pic before but it makes me giggle all the time.

Payne refers to him as the Hipster Kitty. Oh something I just learned from Animal Planet... Cats pick up on human traits. Such as talking and our own mannerisms. See Payne I told you Jack was just like you in the fact that all he ever wants to do is sleep. And he wants to snuggle up with me... Which I dont really mind. Do you like cats? I think they can knead their way into anyones heart. MEOW!

Day 25

So here I am again. Laying on the couch watching Friends and hanging out with Fat Jack. I was given a chance by a very good friend, whom I have mentioned, to work on a blog with her. I think I will! We would have so much fun! But moving on from there. I was going to share the Roundy family Fried chicken recipe. So here it goes...

2 cups Bisquick, 1 packet of powdered Ranch dressing, 1 Tablespoon of pepper, 1 Tablespoon of garlic salt, 1 cup milk, and 8 chicken strips.

You mix all the dry/ powder ingredients together on a plate. Pour the milk into a bowl. In a frying pan heat up your oil. Then dunk your raw chicken strip into the ilk and let it sit for about a minute. Then add it to the powder. Make sure you coat the entire thing. then place in the hot oil so that it cooks. When the strips are completely cooked lay them on a plate with a paper towel on it to drain off excess oil and to rest.

I served this magical deliciousness with green beans, corn, and wild rice. I also like to serve it with a baked potato. I also love this fried chicken served cold.

Anyways... Ive been getting ready for this move. Its crazy to think in two weeks I will be back in Utah. But I look forward to being back with friends. And I also get to see some of Paynes family. AND I GET TO CRAFT AGAIN! I lost all my desire to craft and be creative living here in Albuquerque. I sort of blame it on working at Fantastic Sams. I did so much for the store and for the owners and I got nothing in return. I didn't even make that much which makes everything that much suckier. I watched them walk all over staff and fire people for no good reasons. And Im kind of ashamed to say I was somewhat involved in that. Then I removed myself from the situation and BAM! I had the rude awakening. They were trying to get rid of me because I was too good. WHAT KIND OF BUSINESS IS THAT?!?!?!? Right?! So Im glad I have moved on and left that in the dust. I hope that his business falls under and he looses all his investments in it. And I hope state board fines him for all the stuff he sweeps under the rug. But Im done with that. Sorry about this little rant. Im done! Hahahaha So is there anything that anyone wants me to talk about? A recipe or a craft or a hair problem?

Day 23

So Im laying on the couch watching My Fair Wedding on Netflix writting this new entry. Im also laying here with a fever, ear infection, and a sore throat. Woe woe woe is me... NOT! Im just frustrated that I cant be working on packing some stuff. But I know that if I do anything and Payne sees it he will kill me. Im too young to die. Hahahaha Emily do you remember when we used to yell "Im too young to die" when we would find out someone was engaged?! Because I do. And look... Were both married or aka DEAD! I think it was really our singlehood dying and becoming a new married woman. So that makes sense.

Im running again. Have I ever mentioned how much I love weddings? Because after watching all these dang wedding shows I really think I would make an excellent wedding planner

I also want to own my own restaurant. I want a cute diner that serves my secret recipies and hosts car shows in the summer. Payne thinks this would be the best for me because Im an excellent cook in his book.

I also want to own a consulting business. Ya know... Meet people and help them prepare for a date or a meeting or an interview. Help them shop and figure out what works for them. I think starting it in Utah would be a really good idea too. I found an office space that would be great to have to meet with clients. I wonder if it would even work. Would you come to me for a consultation?

Day 21... AGAIN!

Hot dang! Two posts in one day?! What?! Yes sir! I just found this place that has blown my crafty brain. EMILY THIS ONE GOES OUT TO YOU!!!!

http://www.cuttingedgestencils.com/

When we go yard selling and find funky furniture i will be doing this. All because I stumbled upon this blog

http://www.domesticimperfection.com/2012/05/paisley-stenciled-table/

Day 21

So I was stumbling my way across pinterest when I discovered this lady at www.myblessedlife.net and she had the most handiest tips for finding buried gold... aka second hand fabulousness. Her is her 10 tips.

1. Thrift Shops - I love shopping at three or four various thrift shops in my area. I typically don’t spend a lot of time browsing, but I swoop in and out. If there’s nothing awesome just begging to come home with me, then I move on. Shopping at thrift stores requires that you get over a fear of bugs, germs and “digging.”.

2. ReStores - Oh my, oh my! How my heart goes pitter-pat when I enter a Habitat for Humanity ReStore. The merchandise changes constantly, so I could go every day and find a new treasure…but because of my budget, I don’t. ReStores are often located in an older part of town, so I usually take someone with me or make sure that someone in my family knows where I am. #fraidycat

3. Consignment Shops - Consignment stores that focus on home decor items and furniture are excellent places to shop for new items for your home. You may be able to bargain with the item’s owner to get the best deal possible!

4. Online Classifieds - I have many friends {and my sister, who is also my friend…} who have found amazing deals from online classified ads! For example, my sister and brother-in-law just scored a beautiful dresser from an online ad. I never bought anything from an online classified ad myself, but it’s a great option especially if you have a truck to go pick up your purchases.

5. TJMaxx or Homegoods - I love shopping at TJMaxx! We don’t have a Homegoods locally, but those are great too! Lamps, pillows, vases, baskets, dishes, towels, bathroom accessories, bedding and more are all available at marked-down prices at TJ’s. You’ve got to love a deal!

6. Yard Sales - Have I mentioned that I can’t wait for yard sale season to start up this Spring? I’m so excited! At yard sales, I’m always on the lookout for rulers and yard sticks, furniture, books, art, fabric, vintage sewing supplies…and vintage anything. Few things are sweeter than falling in love with someone else’s junk!

7. Estate Sales - Much like yard sales, estate sales are amazing resources for inexpensive home decor. If you arrive early enough to the sale, you can get “first dibs” on furniture, artwork, accessories, lamps and more. I think I feel much like a game hunter when I’m yard sale-ing or estate sale-ing…the hunt is exhilarating!

8. Salvage Shops - It may seem a bit redundant to mention salvage shops after sharing about the love I have for the ReStore, but the two are different, I promise. My favorite salvage shop is Southern Accents. The place is phenomenal. They literally go into houses and buildings that are going to be torn down and they save everything worth salvaging. Floors, windows, mantels, newel posts from staircases, molding, door knobs, light fixtures and more. Southern Accents even has a wood working shop on location and if you can dream it up…they can create it.

9. Antique Malls - Shopping at an antique mall is completely different than shopping at a yard sale, thrift shop or the ReStore. Typically, antique sellers are not only proud of their merchandise, but they make you pay for their “proudness.” Yes, I just made up that word. However, it is possible to find inexpensive treasures at antique stores. My word of advice…don’t throw caution to the wind when you are on a budget and shopping at an antique mall.

10. The Side Of The Road - Have you been waiting for this one? My husband humors me as I squeal and make him turn around to go see what was in a pile of “junk.” I got over my self-respect a long time ago and I have no problem digging through stuff on the side of the road. I’ve dug out some neat old windows that my mother-in-law wanted to fight me over {not really!}. My friend Beckie is a RoadKill Rescue queen.

Emily if youre reading this you need to get over to her website. Im serious! Anyways... Payne and I are moving in three weeks. We found a lovely little apartment near BYU. So November 5th is our official moving day. Im sitting here in a pile of books and dvds and clothes. Two stacks of books, a stack of dvds, two bags of clothes and shoes that are about to make their way to Goodwill. We are also selling a bunch of furniture. Thats stressful because you never know whose creeping around on craigslist.

OOOOH! Heres a new recipe as well. Its something thats in the crocpot right now. I took 1 cup vegetable stock, 1 cup H2O, 1 packet of Onion Soup mix, a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce, a few dashes of pepper, a few dashes of garlic salt (because I dont cook with regular salt), and I mix it all together in a bowl with a wisk. Then I pour the mixture into my crocpot. I place a pork loin roast that is slightly defrosted in the mixture. Cook on High for 6 hours or low for 9 hours. Im planning to make rice and gravy with the drippings in the crocpot. I cant wait to try it!

Day 18

Ive been baking!!! Heres a pic of what Im working on right this moment...

I know you can buy a box of strawberry cake mix from the grocery store but I like my cake to have a bunch of flavor. So you mix in a box of jello powder into your cake batter. EASY!!! And Im going to top it off with homemade cream cheese frosting. But the twist is... because we all know im twisted is that you pop it in the fridge to chill it and BAM! Deliciousness! So moving right along... Im still jobless and hanging in the balance trying to figure out where things are headed. I wish we would get the final decision. It would make life easier. Oh and to Paynes surprise I cleaned the kitchen today. I guess its because I was in the mood to do something. I cleaned all the carpet and the rug too. When you adopt a dog you adopt the smell as well. So were smell free. I love Pinterest. It has taught me lots of tricks. Especially when adopting a dog and knowing nothing about what to do for them. I mean I have had dogs in the past but never an indoor dog. Sorry to drag on about her. She fills my day with trips to the dog park and interesting walks around our complex. Oh like the other day when she tried to catch a bird that was injured. And also tried to pull my arm out of place. Here I go again... Ok Ill stop! So sorry! Ill see you later!

Day 16

So we are announcing our newest addition. Shes a year and a half and the sweetest girl around... Ladies and Gents meet PANDA!!!

She is a Huskie/Shephard mix. We got her from the Humane Society. Anyways... Things just got kicked into overdrive. I have a house to pack, sell, and donate. I have 2-3 weeks to do it. Anyone want to come over and help?? I think on my next update I will have a list of everything we are selling and a picture for each one. Literally we are getting rid of everything. Both couches, our brand new head board and foot board, the bookcases and tv stand, and even the coffee table that I love so much. Oh and dont forget the dresser. Needless to say I have my work cut out for me. Maybe I should have an apartment sale. Thats not a bad idea. OH!!!!!!! And heres a recipie you might like. You take a Pork Loin Roast and place it in the croc pot. In a pan on the stove at medium heat place half a stick of butter broken down into little pieces. Then add a cup of brown sugar and let it simmer and melt together. add 1/3 cup teriyaki sauce. let that mix together. then add 1/2 cup of Dr. Pepper. let it come to a simmer. after that is all simmered up pour it over the pork loin. sprinkle a little more brown sugar over the top. Cook on high in the croc pot for 6 hours. when its done shred the pork and let it mix with the sauce. ITS SO GOOD! We had sweet pork tacos last night. And then this morning Payne put it in his eggs. You can do alot with it.

YUMMMMMMMM!!!! Oh how I love my croc pot. Whats your favorite thing to cook in your croc pot??

Day 13

So I missed a few days but thats okay. Ive been a little preoccupied. Im just checking in to let you know all is well... Also... PAYNE GOT ACCEPTED INTO BYU!!!! So everything is about to fall in place. I havent landed a job for sure yet but hopefully I will know by tuesday. Also... HALLOWEEN IS IN 24 DAYS!!! I like Halloween. I want to carve a pumpkin this year... I think we are going to try and go to the ward trunk or treat. So my loyal fans... What are you going to be for Halloween?!?!?!?

Day 9

Hot Dang! Im on a roll! I had an interview at victorias secret today! It went really well. I hope that I get the job. I also went to the doctor to get my wrist checked out. Bad news bears! I might have to get the thing popped back open and redone. YUCK! So Im not doing hair right now because that could be the reason why it has gotten so bad. Oh! And we went to the Humane Society today and Payne fell in love with the most cutest dog. Her name is Panda Bear (which I find funny because thats what I call Payne.) I am going to try and adopt her for him if I can pull the funds together. Im just worried about what might happen when we move. So we are weighing all of our options... Being much more responsible. Anyways... Thats all I have right now. LOVES XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Day 8

So I skipped a few days... SUE ME!!! I had a job interview today at Hot Topic. Thats cool right? I thought so. Anyways... theyre having me meet with the district manager on friday! WOOT! Hopefully I get the job. In other news I hate Paynes work right now. Theyre making him work less hours which is less shifts which means less $$$$$. And since hes the only income right now its stressing me out right now... So keep your fingers crossed right now for me to get the job! Im planning to dazzle the lady with my awesome abilities. But whatever... So Payne and I worked on our Christmas pictures today. If you stalk me on facebook (which I am hopping you am because you found this blog link on there) then you would have seen it posted today. If not... here it is...

Arent we the most cutest couple ever?!? Because if you said yes you would be right!!! and heres the cutest cat on earth... Handsome Jack... AKA Hipster Jack...

Everyone that follows me on instagram and on facebook is probably annoyed that I take daily pictures of Jack but COME ON!!!! Hes freaking adorable. And if he knew how to type he could tell much funnier stories on here than I could. And he would also tell you about the mean mean things I do to him. Like today I found a cut on his chin and so Payne wrapped him up in a towel and held him tight so that I could treat his wound. He HISSED at me. That never happens. So I felt bad and I gave him like ten treats. Now hes back in my lap. His favorite thing to do is to jump up on my lap uninvited and plant his 27 pound body down wherever he feels and most of the time its in a position that is not nice for me because he likes to sit on cell phones and key boards. Anyways... Im going to finish watching my show... Good night!

Day two, day three, and then day four...

So the last few days have been interesting. On wednesday I put in my three week notice at the salon because I am so beyond done with working there. I walk into the salon this morning and to my not so surprise I was taken off the schedule. So I am currently jobless. WOW! Its crazy. I dont even know what I am going to do. I guess we shall see.

Day One

So today I am starting a new blog. I guess you could say its a way to chronicle the things that I experience at work and at home because, lets be honest, I experience random things at work and with my adorable husband. If youre just meeting me here on this little diddy let me introduce myself. My name is Jordan. Im 24 (right now) married (no im not pregnant and I dont have kids. crazy I know.) and a stylist. Nothing fancy here. My husband and I currently reside in Albuquerque, NM (aka arm pit of the world) where I work at a salon and my hubby works at Olive Garden. I decided today that I need to chronicle the nonsense we experience. Before I married my husband ( Did I mention his name... its Payne... WEIRD RIGHT???) I was told by friends and family that he was "Magic". What exactly they meant I wasnt sure but I found out with my first experience on our Honeymoon. NO! Not that kind of magic. Dirty minded people. EWWWW! I mean we went to Disneyland and we were going to have to wait an HOUR to go on Indiana Jones. Well it was late in the afternoon and I was tired and hungry. Which means I was a pain in the butt. So were standing there trying to decide what to do when a nice gentleman walked up to us and asked us if we wanted these two fast passes. HELL YES! We then only had to wait 10 minutes to get on the ride. TADA!!!! Magic! Ive experience a few other things but thats and excellent example. Heres a pic of me and Mr. Magic.

I hope you keep up with this little adventure! xoxoxo