A Vintage Treasure

I found this hot little number at a vintage shop in Washington while I was visiting. I love the shops downtown Olympia because they're so unique yet still affordable. In case you were wondering...that's almost un-heard of in Alexandria. I paid $14 for this dress (Used...but who cares?) It was a little too big, so I performed some sew-magic and had this puppy at a perfect fit in about 20 minutes! You sure can't beat consignment shopping!

Snap Shots of Washington

I'm back from the best trip (ever!) to Washington. I actually got to see most of my family from both the Gordon and Walton sides. I can't think of any other time when that happened. I only wish Aaron could have been there! It was so special to celebrate Addie's first year of life with a fun birthday bash. She came down with a fever the night before and still had a wonderful time. She's just the world's best kid. She's so happy, funny and FULL of personality! I can't get enough of her. Addie even decided to walk for the first time for her GG and Auntie! She completely surprised herself - She took about 5 steps, landed on her butt, then started clapping. It was so cute and funny, all I could do was laugh and cry at the same time! I love my family so much and couldn't have imagined a better time together. I'm truly, TRULY blessed.

It was only fitting to post this picture with my cousin Jill first. She's blogged about me in her famous running blog and she's amazing! She'll be running her first marathon this Summer. We got in two good runs together while I was in town. It was beautiful - The Cascade Mountains, Mt. Rainier and the Puget Sound all around us. It just doesn't get much better than the PNW!

When you're 4 years old, choosing just one when presented with a plate full of cupcakes is the toughest decision you've ever made. Waiting for a scream...(eek!!)
Nope - We're happy still!!

Sis, GGD, me and Mom (GG)
GG and Oompa's gift to Addie. Her first Radio Flyer wagon!
Birthday festivities
Addie's gift from her auntie and uncle. She LOVES her Rody Horse!
Childhood friends - Tyler and Claudia

First hair cut...somewhat of a tramatic experience, but a lovely look to show for it!

Someone loves ducks...and bath time!

Just the "usual" attitude of this kid!!

Ruston Way - The beautiful Puget Sound!

Mom's side of the family...were we really all together?!? And no, that's not Aaron behind me...only my 7 foot, 18 year old cousin - Ok, 6 feet. But when you're only 5'2, everything just looks ridiculously tall.

Tutu Time!

Old Friends :)

Addie Walked!

Power Smoothies

I'm on this new kick that I thought I'd share. I love most fruits and veggies, but it's not always "easy" getting the right amounts of them. And of course if I have the choice between a fruit or a veggie, usually the fruit wins! I started thinking, "I wonder what it would taste like if I ate them together?" So I tried it! Why not? The result is a super tasty, healthy, vitamin-packed power smoothie! I grab anything from a kiwi to kale and throw it right in the blender along with some ice and liquid (water, your favorite juice, or I use Naked Juice "Green Machine.") I realize it may sound a bit strange, but don't knock it 'til you try it.

To add a little protein, try throwing in half an avocado. I'm a huge fan of avocados - Not only for their taste, but for the fact that they're made up of healthy, essential fats.

Here are a few ideas. If you try this, let me know what you think.

1 kiwi
1/2 banana
4-5 frozen strawberries
1/2 avocado
1 carrot
5-6 kale leaves
3-4 broccoli spears (I don't "recommend using the "tree" part...it doesn't taste as good.)
a few ice cubes
1/2 C. water or juice of your choice (juice will obviously sweeten it a bit more.)

or

4-5 frozen strawberries
1/2-3/4 C. mix of frozen blueberries, respberries and blackberries
1/2 avocado
1 carrot
5-6 kale leaves
5 slices cucumber
a few ice cubes
1/2 C. liquid of choice

It's fun to play around with different ingredients to find what you like. I typically enjoy this for breakfast and sometimes one other time during the day (but not as a meal replacement other than breakfast.)

**I generally use kale (visit the link and scroll down to read about its nutritional value) in every smoothie because it's one of the healthiest veggies known to man. It's extremely anti-inflammatory and packed with antioxidants.

Enjoy!