a couple of my fave bloggers are doing something special...

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhELbRwdJKt5_89gryU_IL6ksRZY9VH6IzrknOv35fevpBHpXgXoCCeaNVRsOaQazcD9KM_1IvhmUJoVQ9WWNVQ6qtTIq3hGSM5sihuT4oiuKoHzoEcSSfwSFzn9ca7OTd8AvMMBE9C-GY/s1600/atell-your-story-official-AD.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhELbRwdJKt5_89gryU_IL6ksRZY9VH6IzrknOv35fevpBHpXgXoCCeaNVRsOaQazcD9KM_1IvhmUJoVQ9WWNVQ6qtTIq3hGSM5sihuT4oiuKoHzoEcSSfwSFzn9ca7OTd8AvMMBE9C-GY/s400/atell-your-story-official-AD.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; width: 400px; min-height: 359px;" /></a>Tell Your Story is a <b>six week</b> online art journal class taught by <a href="http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Elsie</a> and <a href="http://racheldenbow.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Rachel</a> of <a href="http://redvelvetgirls.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Red Velvet Art</a>. They've designed this class to help you artistically document your daily life as well as your hopes and dreams through <b>daily prompts</b> and challenges. They'll be sharing book making projects as well as tips and tricks for finding and storing your supplies.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WElvlpM8d3CaVbbt1_lQ-lpEC0lfivs_BMEl-k3FJQLGQ8ld18Ch_iqdNwONU2_ttByvTpCf4Y4aSz1YEqGVKi6neGExBhvONQlkvzq2F4ZwVRzbW9bNX8nZuINBAce3aVBzaCPWJDU/s1600/atell-your-story.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WElvlpM8d3CaVbbt1_lQ-lpEC0lfivs_BMEl-k3FJQLGQ8ld18Ch_iqdNwONU2_ttByvTpCf4Y4aSz1YEqGVKi6neGExBhvONQlkvzq2F4ZwVRzbW9bNX8nZuINBAce3aVBzaCPWJDU/s400/atell-your-story.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; width: 320px; min-height: 400px;" /></a> Along with daily prompts you can participate in live chats to get friendly with your classmates and enjoy Q&A time with your teachers. Click here for <a href="http://racheldenbow.blogspot.com/2010/03/tell-your-story-class-registration-here.html" target="_blank">registration information</a> and more details or e-mail racheldenbow(at)gmail(dot)com. xoxo, Rachel and Elsie

a couple of my fave bloggers are doing something special...

Tell Your Story is a six week online art journal class taught by Elsie and Rachel of Red Velvet Art . They've designed this cla...

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Nostalgia: documented for my family

<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4480383009/" title="nostalgia (for my blog) by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="nostalgia (for my blog)" height="130" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2765/4480383009_aeb12ee55d.jpg" width="500" /></a></center><br /><br />Sometimes I'm hit with such huge waves of nostalgia for my childhood that it makes me want to cry. I know I'm quite lucky to look back on growing up so fondly, and I continually count my blessings that my parents provided me with such a glorious upbringing. I grew up in New Jersey, in a wonderful house right in the woods of Jackson. Jackson is in central Jersey, in a gorgeous wooded area, and is a small town with friendly people. If I close my eyes I can almost take myself right back to all the beautiful memories I have of the thirteen years I spent growing up on the East Coast. The smell of tomato vines still transports me to our backyard garden, butter popcorn is the smell of our Friday TGIF nights, and anytime pizza is heated up on tinfoil in a toaster oven, all I can think about is eating our leftovers during Saturday morning cartoons. Growing up to me is a mix of library books and bike rides, grassy afternoons and swimming in our backyard until our skin turned into prunes. My sister Lauren and I grew up as each others' main playmates and closest friends. We would spend hours and hours playing dress up, make believe, dancing, laughing, twirling, telling secrets, and speaking in our own language. We didn't have toys with bells and whistles, we had toys that made us think, treasure chests of vintage clothing that inspired us to create, shelves and shelves of books that begged us to read, and art supplies that motivated us to make something, anything. Growing up so many of my days were spent listening to my parents' old 45s on my Fisher Price record player, tapes in my tape deck, and 8-tracks on the downstairs stereo. Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Willie Nelson. Music was everywhere. I recall so many bright summer days: running through the sprinkler in our green, green grass in the dog days of July, riding our bikes up and down the driveway, and begging our parents to take us exploring in the acres and acres of woods in our backyard. I remember celebrating Jackson Day every year, eating funnel cake, making splatter art, creating bottles of colored sand, and oohing and ahhing over the fireworks. We'd spend many fun afternoons at Great Adventure, and I can still think back to excitedly waiting in line each year for our season pass. Beach days were almost everyday in the summer. My parents would treat us to many concerts in the huge amphitheater, laughing with their friends as Lauren and I would dance dance dance to whoever we were seeing on that starry night. Food brings back some of the strongest memories: "frankfurters" and cheeseburgers on the barbecue, Heinz ketchup and spicy mustard, red skinned potato salad, homemade ice pops, tri-color pasta salad, hard rolls and butter from Glory's, sun tea in the big pitcher, egg and bacon sandwiches at the Mug Rack, followed by hot chocolate with lots of whipped cream, my Dad's Oodles of Noodles in a steaming mug, tomato soup and saltines, turkey subs from Wawa, cherry Icees, huge slices of pizza on the boardwalk, waffles and ice cream, peanut butter and jelly from our cooler on the beach, gouda cheese and crackers, fresh popped popcorn in the metal bowl, artichokes and asparagus. It's my Dad's old red Malboros and bottles of Rolling Rock beer whenever he was building something around the house. The smell of Bartells and James wine coolers whenever they had a get together. It's the same appetizers we still eat every Christmas Eve, the traditions we had growing up that still continue. It's the night visits to Carvel, my strawberry with rainbow sprinkles, Italian ice runs, and black and white milkshakes at Steve's while playing The Everly Brothers on the jukebox. It's Daisy and Brownie Girl Scout meetings, dance class after school, cold Saturday mornings at the soccer fields, Big League Chew packs at t-ball games. It's camping in Wildwood with the Glowackis, swimming and tuna fish sandwiches at the Ostroskis. Marco Polo, TV tag, impromptu soccer games, and softball tournaments always followed by Slurpees at 7-11. My childhood house in itself is magical in my mind- the attic was always such a place of wonder, boxes and boxes of treasures just waiting to be unearthed. The "white shed" in the backyard, where I always thought I could talk to the ghosts of horses past. I remember the woods across the street, being pulled in a wagon to go collect wild blueberries. Hearing the clink of a spoon in a mug, or the gurgle of a coffee maker early in the morning always reminds me of my father, the same way soft singing and happy movements around a home are my mothers. I feel so fortunate that I can't think of anything negative when I think of growing up and during my childhood years. I know this is rare, and I cherish this so much, and my sister (still my best friend) often talk about how wonderful it was. We are fortunate enough to be able to visit Jackson every so often, and the excitement still lingers to this day. We both can't wait to have kids of our own so we can try to give them the same beautiful, amazing childhood we had. I can't express to my parents enough thank yous to ever encompass what they have done for us in giving us such a chunk of our lives as so safe, inspiring, and peaceful. I'll try again and I'll keep trying- thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Nostalgia: documented for my family

Sometimes I'm hit with such huge waves of nostalgia for my childhood that it makes me want to cry. I know I'm quite lucky to look b...

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Happy birthday, Mama!

<div style="padding: 3px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3559982056/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3298/3559982056_0ed236e1a3.jpg" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.8em;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3559982056/">mama and me</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/daniellehampton/">daniellehampton</a>.</span></div><p>Here we are in a barn in Vermont last summer! I have no idea what my left hand is doing, but I remember how fun this day was. I love you Mom. You are the most inspiring, wonderful, beautiful woman I know and I am so blessed to be your daughter.<br /><br />Happy, happy birthday!</p>

Happy birthday, Mama!

mama and me , originally uploaded by daniellehampton . Here we are in a barn in Vermont last summer! I have no idea what my left hand is do...

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Tattoo Tuesday V.12

This week's pretty little lady is none other than Jen Joyce! I love this girl. Not only is she totally gorgeous, she is THE nicest, sweetest, cupcake of a gal you'll ever meet. I seriously want to scoop her up from Seattle and make her move back to AZ and come live in Prescott. If you don't follow her on Twitter already, you should! She's just all-around rad. So here she is, Ms. Jen Joyce!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvd_pdL6iCfdJZfP2e_Nt9eRW-Q81EbjcC4d6KXp-Z1CR-PYBNmnaaxbWLcXGVacYO1Eodq-1nN1rqM5jR9FRqw7r8AqFGuXzxBqpaS1PGZ8s7qZ3d-Z-gAW7tDVTffIkWRXeljXokYyI/s1600/jen1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454606005389854434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvd_pdL6iCfdJZfP2e_Nt9eRW-Q81EbjcC4d6KXp-Z1CR-PYBNmnaaxbWLcXGVacYO1Eodq-1nN1rqM5jR9FRqw7r8AqFGuXzxBqpaS1PGZ8s7qZ3d-Z-gAW7tDVTffIkWRXeljXokYyI/s400/jen1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 388px;" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Name and blog name:</span> Jen/<a href="http://twitter.com/knitpurl">@knitpurl on twitter</a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Tattoo/location:</span> Calla lillies, inner arm<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Artist/shop/location:</span> Jesse Roberts/Lucky Devil Tattoo/ Capitol Hill, Seattle WA<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmmIvW1qWKpSx_3j9nzKZVw77lDjJoBMY6h5CHNpZ16Rld3b1aM1dSH9QU0y_XpOIYRWuAxWdfYOYrWLQkVv97g3prYkP4IAql81CgL7dCu5I8-eW1VoWhhi6jYhdg27I39lIl1nM2ww/s1600/jen2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454606019519441746" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmmIvW1qWKpSx_3j9nzKZVw77lDjJoBMY6h5CHNpZ16Rld3b1aM1dSH9QU0y_XpOIYRWuAxWdfYOYrWLQkVv97g3prYkP4IAql81CgL7dCu5I8-eW1VoWhhi6jYhdg27I39lIl1nM2ww/s400/jen2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 388px;" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">1) Tell us about the tattoo you are sharing with us- is there a background story or special meaning? Why did you choose this particular piece of art?</span><br /><br />First of all, I love calla lilies. They are almost hauntingly beautiful and so very graceful. Also, one of my most dearest friends, Joey got calla lilies on her arm a while ago and as lame as it might sound...I just knew that would be our "friend tattoo." It also kind of represents my growth into the woman I am today, yadda yadda *insert corny stuff here*.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">2) Do you have any other tattoos? If so, what do you have and where?</span><br /><br />I also have swallows & a sacred heart on the outer upper arm and cherry blossoms on my shoulder area (my ode to Seattle), thus completing my half sleeve.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">3) Do you plan on getting more?</span><br /><br />Oh, of course! I have plans for my right arm and right thigh. I wont go into too much detail but 2 words: knitting & anchor.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">4) How do your family and friends feel about your tattoo(s)? Have you run into any adversity or negativity because of them?</span><br /><br />My mom was devastated (love you mom!) when I got my first but she has slowly grown an acceptance. Well, for the one 1/2 sleeve. She doesn't know about my other plans yet so I may be speaking too soon, haha! A lot of my friends have tattoos so we are all good there. I still have to cover up at work but seeing as I work at a pretty progressive hotel in Seattle my fingers are crossed that one day I will not have to invest in so many cardigans.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">5) Any advice for those interested in getting tattooed but haven't gotten one yet?</span><br /><br />First of all, love you all who ask but yes it hurts. A needle is being drug across your skin for god's sake! Please stop asking people if it really hurts. Now, I know EVERYONE says this but REALLY do your research! Make sure you KNOW your tattoo artist. And finally, don't just go with someone because they are giving you a deal. BAD IDEA. This will be on you for the rest of your life! Pay accordingly.<br /><br />Oh, and eat before. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12x_UYiRAUJu_uVI36wLHCoNCQS-yjOJJQtpeRQf9d18oFr-YztvDfA9RcroGNuShrwLt9MK0pWGUviemmblviguXFg1pGwxegeGHQPAZmFZ2oYVILCnN4joPuhNKiTj81_k2-ZNUm4Y/s1600/9428_159114891268_602876268_3163454_2161105_n.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454607583994232018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12x_UYiRAUJu_uVI36wLHCoNCQS-yjOJJQtpeRQf9d18oFr-YztvDfA9RcroGNuShrwLt9MK0pWGUviemmblviguXFg1pGwxegeGHQPAZmFZ2oYVILCnN4joPuhNKiTj81_k2-ZNUm4Y/s400/9428_159114891268_602876268_3163454_2161105_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a>

Tattoo Tuesday V.12

This week's pretty little lady is none other than Jen Joyce! I love this girl. Not only is she totally gorgeous, she is THE nicest, swe...

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Spring music

I love this video so much, and it's really the perfect springtime song. It makes me want to spend a day with Hank, riding bikes and sipping lemonade into the late afternoon...barefoot in the grass, twirling around under the sun, laying on a blanket and watching the clouds go by.<br /><br />Do you have any songs in mind that really just epitomize spring? I'd love to hear your choices, and I'll collaborate the mother of all spring playlists based on your input!<br /><br /><object height="270" width="400"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=1852925&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=0&show_portrait=1&color=&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=1852925&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=0&show_portrait=1&color=&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="270"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/1852925">Coeur de Pirate || Comme des enfants</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/dtc">Dare To Care Records</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>

Spring music

I love this video so much, and it's really the perfect springtime song. It makes me want to spend a day with Hank, riding bikes and sipp...

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Lovely Sunday

Today has been a really relaxing day, which has been a nice way to end a really relaxing weekend! I haven't been feeling 100%, so rather than go down to Flagstaff and Phoenix for the Broadway Calls shows as originally planned, I elected to stay home and get some rest. And rest I did! I feel like I may have even slept too much, if that's even possible. Last night was fun though- Hank and I went out for Thai food after he got off work and we had the best time. We contemplated seeing a movie afterward but since Hank's been in dispatch recently, he has to get enough sleep every night. The best part about Tara Thai II though, is that the portions are really big and then today we got to enjoy the delicious leftovers. There isn't much tastier than Thai leftovers, in my opinion.<br /><br />So yes, Prescott's been beautiful lately, and this evening we took Madeline on a long stroll downtown and really enjoyed the weather. I love living here. I write that all the time, but it's true! I miss my friends and family every day of my life, but two hours isn't too bad, and we make it work. It's worth it to enjoy so much beautiful-ness everyday. Oh, and this weekend is the last weekend that Hank has to work and I cannot even express how happy I am to have my hubby back. We always do so many fun things on our weekends, and it's truly been a bummer having him working so much. I'm ecstatic to be back to our "normal."<br /><br />Oh, and here's an outfit photo from today! I haven't done one of these in a couple of weeks. Please excuse my wrinkly skirt- linen is such a difficult fabric to wear for an extended period of time.<br /><br />top: Marc by Marc Jacobs<br />skirt: Forever21<br />shoes: Blowfish<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4471373557/" title="daily outfit, 3/28 by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="daily outfit, 3/28" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4471373557_115d7d8b5d.jpg" width="326" /></a><br /><br />So tomorrow is the start of a new week, but it's extra great because it's a short week! Amber arrives Tuesday, and Hank leaves for a little tour on Wednesday. Oh, and speaking of Hour of the Wolf, look how cute this girl is. She's playing one of their songs. Addison found it and Hank and I are loving it. :)<br /><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5NpQ0osnGp8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5NpQ0osnGp8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />I hope all of you have an amazing week! Like I said, I am going to be having fun with friends and spending the weekend in Phoenix. I'm really excited to go over Autumn's and visit the babies too. Lots to look forward to! <br /><br />I'm going to go spend time with Hank, but before I go I thought I would share a playlist I just made. This one may not be as popular as some of the others I've posted, but this one is probably the most special. It includes many of the songs I grew up listening to via my parents. My childhood was amazing, and these songs take me way back. Which one is your favorite? What kind of music did you grow up listening to?<br /><br />Until next time, xoxo. :)<br /><br /><img border="0" height="0" src="http://counters.gigya.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEyNjk4MjkyNzI3NzQmcHQ9MTI2OTgyOTI3OTI1MCZwPTY5NDMwMSZkPSZnPTEmbz1iY2QyNWRiNDc*YjI*ZTczOWJl/ODY2YWE*Mzk*MDE5ZCZvZj*w.gif" style="visibility:hidden;width:0px;height:0px;" width="0" /><div style="text-align: center; margin-left: auto; visibility:visible; margin-right: auto; width:450px;"> <object height="270" width="435"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.musicplaylist.us/mc/mp3player_new.swf"></param> <param name="allowscriptaccess" value="never"></param> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param> <param name="flashvars" value="config=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.indimusic.us%2Fext%2Fpc%2Fconfig_pink_noautostart.xml&mywidth=435&myheight=270&playlist_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.musicplaylist.us%2Fpl.php%3Fplaylist%3D76408072%26t%3D1269829272&wid=os"></param> <embed style="width:435px; visibility:visible; height:270px;" allowScriptAccess="never" src="http://www.musicplaylist.us/mc/mp3player_new.swf" flashvars="config=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.indimusic.us%2Fext%2Fpc%2Fconfig_pink_noautostart.xml&mywidth=435&myheight=270&playlist_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.musicplaylist.us%2Fpl.php%3Fplaylist%3D76408072%26t%3D1269829272&wid=os" width="435" height="270" name="mp3player" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" border="0"/> </embed></object> <br/> <a href="http://www.musicplaylist.us"><img alt="Get a playlist!" border="0" src="http://www.musicplaylist.us/mc/images/create_pink.jpg"/></a> <a href="http://www.musicplaylist.us/playlist/19560466443/standalone" target="_blank"><img alt="Standalone player" border="0" src="http://www.musicplaylist.us/mc/images/launch_pink.jpg"/></a> <a href="http://www.musicplaylist.us/playlist/19560466443/download"><img alt="Get Ringtones" border="0" src="http://www.musicplaylist.us/mc/images/get_pink.jpg"/></a> </div>

Lovely Sunday

Today has been a really relaxing day, which has been a nice way to end a really relaxing weekend! I haven't been feeling 100%, so rathe...

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Spring has sprung (maybe)!

I am loving this weather so much, and Prescott is truly beautiful this time of the year. I spent the early evening on a nice walk with some of my lady friends, and it was so lovely to feel the warm sun and to be outdoors. One of my friends warned me that she thinks it will snow before we truly get our spring, but I am really hoping she is wrong! I was originally going to be spending the weekend in both Flagstaff and Phoenix, but I have just been way too tired lately, so I chose to instead lay low and relax. <a href="http://amberjoyh.blogspot.com/">Amber Joy</a> is going to be here in just a few days and I am SO excited. We always have the best time, and I can't wait for our trip down to Phoenix next weekend to hang out with Erin and get her first tattoo via Cory. Maybe she'll even let me feature her on Tattoo Tuesday!<br /><br />Today was such a good day at work! I started the day off with the sweetest email and some amazing news, and then it got even better when I got a surprise delivery of stargazer lilies. They are beautiful and the bouquet is HUGE! I feel very loved. My seniors and I (and Robyn's ESL kiddos) finished watching "The Cove" and it was amazing. So sad, but it impacted me in such a way, and every single one of my students agreed. I recommend that all of you check it out asap!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4466571454/" title="surprise lilies at work! <33 by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="surprise lilies at work! <33" height="375" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4466571454_880e014ed9.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Hank also leaves for a quick mini-tour (I wouldn't even call it a tour!) with Terror and Ignite next week, so be sure to stop by and say hi if they're in your neck of the woods! If you mention you're a blog follower maaybe Hank will hook you up with a sweet deal on merch too! He will be playing drums on this little jaunt, which he loves, and it's neat he gets to mix it up. Their normal drummer Dustin, won't be playing this time, so Hank is moving to drums and our friend JP is filling in on guitar. They're crazy. haha.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4116033587/" title="HOTW/Misfits by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="HOTW/Misfits" height="335" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2590/4116033587_1e3c049795.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Here are the dates:<br /><br />Thursday, April 1: San Francisco, CA @ Thee Parkside<br />Friday, April 2: San Diego, CA @ The Epicentre<br />Saturday, April 3: Anaheim, CA @ Chain Reaction<br />Sunday, April 4: Mesa, AZ @ The Nile Basement<br /><br />And in the spirit, I thought I would post a few of my million photos from last spring, to get in the mood! I love the springtime so much, and this spring is especially wonderful because Hank and I have so many fun things coming up.<br /><br />at Disneyland!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3365037114/" title="castle photo by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="castle photo" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3574/3365037114_45ef9f8a1b.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />one of Sar's many visits<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3415979246/" title="at sweettart for brunch by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="at sweettart for brunch" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3325/3415979246_900278d17f.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />sister time:)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3435011191/" title="Untitled by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3377/3435011191_76a6b17d7c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Viva Las Vegas with my best friends!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3496682200/" title="my best friends by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="my best friends" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3305/3496682200_aeea590e2c.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />in Mesa<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3539598119/" title="before dinner by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="before dinner" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2181/3539598119_4f7b1208b8.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />birthday parties!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3540652746/" title="the table by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="the table" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2232/3540652746_a7f58f6118.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Slices at 2am!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3540659244/" title="at slices by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="at slices" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2075/3540659244_0e43e6f7ea.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3540641460/" title="shirl and emily by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="shirl and emily" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2315/3540641460_4c4c70bbb7.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />California!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3367575770/" title="Hanky and Autumn by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="Hanky and Autumn" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3642/3367575770_5573d7262c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3360500111/" title="beautiful day today by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="beautiful day today" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3215/3360500111_da1d710f8c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3432509241/" title="zoe, elisa, me by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="zoe, elisa, me" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3560/3432509241_29fca5acd2.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />SO excited for THIS spring! Traveling, fun, family and friends. Can't wait!

Spring has sprung (maybe)!

I am loving this weather so much, and Prescott is truly beautiful this time of the year. I spent the early evening on a nice walk with some...

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Hey girlfriend!

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4230043259/" title="love my darling girlfriends by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="love my darling girlfriends" height="335" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2587/4230043259_c11ffacc91.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Seriously, let's all take a minute out of our day and call a girlfriend and say "HEY! I LOVE YOU!" Female friendship is one of the most wonderful things in the entire world, and I've been lucky enough in my life to be surrounded by amazing girls throughout all 27 years I've been on this earth. From my Mom to my sister, my aunts, my grandmas, my childhood friends to my friends from high school, dance friends, soccer friends, college friends, sorority sisters, teacher friends, the list goes on. How lucky are we all to have even one lady in our life we can count on! <br /><br />I'm a total girl's girl, and I value women so much. I have always thought it was so sad to hear my fellow ladies bash girls, doing the whole "I just don't get along with them" routine. In no way is it possible to like every woman on the planet, but we should at least try to support each other instead of cutting each other down from the get-go and playing that game. By nature humans are competitive, and I think many times girls see each other as competition and through a comparative eye, rather than seeing inspiration or alliance. I've written on this topic before, and my position has always been the same. Women need women in their lives to understand all the things that men just can't grasp. I feel such a sisterhood with my best girlfriends, and the amount of support I receive from them is paramount. Each girl in my life has such a different, unique role. Some of these friendships have been cultivated since I was very young, and others I have met along the way. I see some of my friends everyday, some a couple weekends out of the month, and others go years between visits. However, it feels like no time has passed when I am with these girls. As we grow up, it's just not possible to chat everyday on the phone, to spend hours hanging out each weekend, or even to get together once a month. But we make it work, each in our own way that defines that particular friendship. In healthy relationships, there is no resentment. There is simply love, and no matter how often I see or talk to these certain people, our love runs deep. I feel grateful. The older I get, the more I realize just how important it is to have real relationships in my life. Wouldn't you agree?<br /><br />So, with that said, do you have a best girl in your life that means the world to you? I'd love to hear about it. One of my most favorite things about this blog is input from all of you fabulous people, so thank you in advance for putting yourself out there.<br /><br />So much (girl!) love.

Hey girlfriend!

Seriously, let's all take a minute out of our day and call a girlfriend and say "HEY! I LOVE YOU!" Female friendship is one o...

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Tattoo Tuesday V.11

I am so happy to present one of my most favorite blogger lady-friends ever, Jessica! She is such an awesome gal, wonderful wife, and mother of TWO! I met the gorgeous Jessica online awhile back, when we realized that my husband's band had played with her husband's band! I've been reading her blog ever since, and loving each and every one of her posts. She's super real and super awesome. So thank you Jess, for being a part of this feature. I know you guys will enjoy all of her photos and insightful advice.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5PJjZgk_Hec80jIJibRl-CpVKjnhay-c_doxT0Ug2KA5UdS183W5vmk-CTpR3zaGThYF5JKg7MK4bqxoGRHMgKaMb0liEPypUCFIw5mdHWC_5yzBCBjmVcURKxVanwVt4l2In-BIAAO8/s1600-h/jess1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995523006535922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5PJjZgk_Hec80jIJibRl-CpVKjnhay-c_doxT0Ug2KA5UdS183W5vmk-CTpR3zaGThYF5JKg7MK4bqxoGRHMgKaMb0liEPypUCFIw5mdHWC_5yzBCBjmVcURKxVanwVt4l2In-BIAAO8/s400/jess1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Name and blog name:</span> Jessica Youngsma<br /><br />I've got 3 blogs!<br />My general blog is:<br /><br /><a href="http://thedoeorthedeer.blogspot.com/">http://thedoeorthedeer.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br />And my kids each have their own:<br /><a href="http://letters-to-zoe.blogspot.com/"><br />http://letters-to-zoe.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br /><a href="http://2equals4.blogspot.com/">http://2equals4.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Tattoo/location:</span> Owl and bones located on my left hand.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Artist/shop/location:</span> It was done by Dan Smith in a kitchen, in Orange County (4 years ago). But Dan is now tattooing at High Voltage Tattoo in LA aka "LA Ink" (He's the australian guy on the show).<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWS1B1F4g5wC81cy4gNe04ISJL7U3MOsuDEARZ_mxHFCByjoZYGANFnNIRR_HFRlMgMN1Fy0lEfl6geyiy8obJWghJqBXmzsuSzTz1WohyLP0uaAnl5fuEaPwK8IlCfhGoSmQyCrGA4Ls/s1600-h/jess11.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451996085991706674" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWS1B1F4g5wC81cy4gNe04ISJL7U3MOsuDEARZ_mxHFCByjoZYGANFnNIRR_HFRlMgMN1Fy0lEfl6geyiy8obJWghJqBXmzsuSzTz1WohyLP0uaAnl5fuEaPwK8IlCfhGoSmQyCrGA4Ls/s400/jess11.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">1) Tell us about the tattoo you are sharing with us- is there a background story or special meaning? Why did you choose this particular piece of art?</span><br /><br />I had known Dan a few years before I met my husband and when I met my husband, come to find out my husband's band (Bleeding Through) and Dan's band (Day of Contempt) had toured together and had known each other for awhile too. It's a very small world we live in. So we had talked about him tattooing me some time and found an opportunity between touring to get something done. It just happened to be in a friends apartment kitchen. Don't worry, it was sterile. I decided I wanted an owl, because I have a "thing" for birds and such. And an owl seemed to be the perfect shape to fit on a hand snugly. So, Dan whipped it up and slapped it on. It took about 3 hours and the rest is history! It's the best "kitchen tattoo" I've ever gotten. And yes, this wasn't the first time I've been tattooed in a kitchen.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">2) Do you have any other tattoos? If so, what do you have and where? </span><br /><br />I have plenty of others! I included a bunch of pics, because who doesn't like pics?!<br />Neck (left side), Jim Minor<br />Chest, Kayle LeoGrande<br />Right arm, Nick Vargas & Los Ocegueda<br />Left arm, Nick Vargas, Brent Vann, Old School Alex and Mike Childers<br />Lower back, Nick Vargas<br />Upper back, Jeff Cooper<br />Back of neck, Nick Phillips<br />Left ankle, *myself...(It was the 2nd tattoo I had ever done and its pretty bad.)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS71z_NxUaNKGQMFjbtKkd5Tlbq-tOVgKFnf4HldflhHxnn8iu-z9-XhjihRJ5OY__riNkzuZcrVKgflqgl3_uSdxotqkaLnvl26IUEnFlPOY2EajONOBAH_lzWQfaTG0_U4pp1KJyaVE/s1600-h/jess3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995535913439042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS71z_NxUaNKGQMFjbtKkd5Tlbq-tOVgKFnf4HldflhHxnn8iu-z9-XhjihRJ5OY__riNkzuZcrVKgflqgl3_uSdxotqkaLnvl26IUEnFlPOY2EajONOBAH_lzWQfaTG0_U4pp1KJyaVE/s400/jess3.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUi-TeIGSUY-ox5xYukuYkYsPOZOsKsDqZHQcVWNLnW5AMdnla9i6KpbclETWwd-SZp16M7oltA4LfpMzaQsjvb_v6AZkB4F7tu-rFVQCNF4L5kl1rSkpljXp-lulScPBy2TaxIySimWI/s1600-h/jess2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995525006890466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUi-TeIGSUY-ox5xYukuYkYsPOZOsKsDqZHQcVWNLnW5AMdnla9i6KpbclETWwd-SZp16M7oltA4LfpMzaQsjvb_v6AZkB4F7tu-rFVQCNF4L5kl1rSkpljXp-lulScPBy2TaxIySimWI/s400/jess2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir80MJBpWqKhSLHDwWI8kVPVivBcD4SkrVSzIS6DM2cBWq00X1jaI69IhKDe10UTzlrwEekxlOfElBde9l-vt4LyMuevL2i4TwoE6vOkRhpQ8hC_feBBy3_PXK3ZJF2uYbneQq0gGIiGM/s1600-h/jess13.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451996092241143490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir80MJBpWqKhSLHDwWI8kVPVivBcD4SkrVSzIS6DM2cBWq00X1jaI69IhKDe10UTzlrwEekxlOfElBde9l-vt4LyMuevL2i4TwoE6vOkRhpQ8hC_feBBy3_PXK3ZJF2uYbneQq0gGIiGM/s400/jess13.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccS7FZDimT-CQN66WqKqRFzIJUQUhMTAlFjs9dAI_su1okdPGLx_UBDorQmoD4kx3CiWTWQ76H1fl68EdYZBnql51c7b6q_cLDfWKXHaCEOG466anVdSQxsrDLnnOTZufUmEP0-_rrQY/s1600-h/jess12.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451996090550853218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccS7FZDimT-CQN66WqKqRFzIJUQUhMTAlFjs9dAI_su1okdPGLx_UBDorQmoD4kx3CiWTWQ76H1fl68EdYZBnql51c7b6q_cLDfWKXHaCEOG466anVdSQxsrDLnnOTZufUmEP0-_rrQY/s400/jess12.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuGiCLwX60XvDcMP-I4QSDwd6-4jTPh4Fc-OxvVwmCGsxsypKc6k3c6khmqLr80FCGzSnTCD2jHTSyqFpBUq0VeEfiYLKZzA34Ak2XIxbZPgaScBvvuMm6QRI4AcNx9pOntlBEbdRbNQ/s1600-h/jess9.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995909619466930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuGiCLwX60XvDcMP-I4QSDwd6-4jTPh4Fc-OxvVwmCGsxsypKc6k3c6khmqLr80FCGzSnTCD2jHTSyqFpBUq0VeEfiYLKZzA34Ak2XIxbZPgaScBvvuMm6QRI4AcNx9pOntlBEbdRbNQ/s400/jess9.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO13tDGTVndOEsotvjh1O4ax8p46X9RC7RIMaSqPtZhqTF0m-riSFgdue-IJIBmVCJo7f2GHtlrHmy2mmZ9A9KgGcR_rF6mNmRuc7arwcYg15X3sFsKLanGDXv41rpnlrwX5omCaoQ_f8/s1600-h/jess8.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995901988716066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO13tDGTVndOEsotvjh1O4ax8p46X9RC7RIMaSqPtZhqTF0m-riSFgdue-IJIBmVCJo7f2GHtlrHmy2mmZ9A9KgGcR_rF6mNmRuc7arwcYg15X3sFsKLanGDXv41rpnlrwX5omCaoQ_f8/s400/jess8.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3WvheTizfDHATYvjR0q1iPulQ1042b7yVlYaJe0tBh1pq9N3dktIvfvPP5T5kYOd6evvM4RDG8L_xwgnJ36ZgCcpIJcx6HVo9f65ezfvOtAoBt1bGkaYhjOSF0ljUdEjAsh_JLHirq4/s1600-h/jess7.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995897123160434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3WvheTizfDHATYvjR0q1iPulQ1042b7yVlYaJe0tBh1pq9N3dktIvfvPP5T5kYOd6evvM4RDG8L_xwgnJ36ZgCcpIJcx6HVo9f65ezfvOtAoBt1bGkaYhjOSF0ljUdEjAsh_JLHirq4/s400/jess7.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fz9HjOLtmdchHBIGFlME-bo1jey5s7Nl06IHcXyR97M5Ulm13iU8m-dDuC0pzJBlUA1PxmFCRxMuLQfBFd9AF7n3UqhqX4B2a7lV8hEm6eG6sXLwzD4m3kjyNlzmokC1YKy3A81LRLQ/s1600-h/jess6.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995892923987682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fz9HjOLtmdchHBIGFlME-bo1jey5s7Nl06IHcXyR97M5Ulm13iU8m-dDuC0pzJBlUA1PxmFCRxMuLQfBFd9AF7n3UqhqX4B2a7lV8hEm6eG6sXLwzD4m3kjyNlzmokC1YKy3A81LRLQ/s400/jess6.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF9rNLY9jHvwouudWE6BABZpPvguMOLBzqgzFfAO5sO5UVKfPvbx1ZK3Q7MtJIgZpYj1JG0MIc0I6KbmRevknWiXLtbypbBpghiecH-O6Kb2rROxzdU9DUitSweiZsNokb8h7cl800Jdk/s1600-h/jess5.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995547902605010" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF9rNLY9jHvwouudWE6BABZpPvguMOLBzqgzFfAO5sO5UVKfPvbx1ZK3Q7MtJIgZpYj1JG0MIc0I6KbmRevknWiXLtbypbBpghiecH-O6Kb2rROxzdU9DUitSweiZsNokb8h7cl800Jdk/s400/jess5.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUcfmsk4pwIrcjzhPdl2sW9eDk0MJD1GqwTVtVM2wOkdz-mdzOimX5E1TCmUz1RJJ8GyLDGyhg9BhtvPEbML9te4seTKv-A_8Eh85I6Z2UHVz9uclgX7WSDlOfbL_YIrX7O2n9eDabWOQ/s1600-h/jess4.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995538695965426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUcfmsk4pwIrcjzhPdl2sW9eDk0MJD1GqwTVtVM2wOkdz-mdzOimX5E1TCmUz1RJJ8GyLDGyhg9BhtvPEbML9te4seTKv-A_8Eh85I6Z2UHVz9uclgX7WSDlOfbL_YIrX7O2n9eDabWOQ/s400/jess4.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7JTtGkPDTUsDMMTuhG3abHbr4jkny1D8aEPwIAtO1kps58N1h_JVfPtN-aCTdgOSIVhPW58etGESb84kZ_wpghMKZgBXQANAgrD1P0Ow7uLxGHAfmcOl45AJGUbJ_CHCTMFYREg8Xq1U/s1600-h/jess10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451995918050418722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7JTtGkPDTUsDMMTuhG3abHbr4jkny1D8aEPwIAtO1kps58N1h_JVfPtN-aCTdgOSIVhPW58etGESb84kZ_wpghMKZgBXQANAgrD1P0Ow7uLxGHAfmcOl45AJGUbJ_CHCTMFYREg8Xq1U/s400/jess10.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WKtGeTyAWUHt6KtJITIWw1c69UtDwV3TJzJ-XTRohcK1cbDc8A3cVpIWdS7Aw-lDkRw1P5NL9dkt1JMuA-wCBMrTF8MI7_LsjQvvTS8ig9BmEfuKJruZXEvb0kWkOPRZnBWwD5I2OFM/s1600-h/jess14.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451996097718663874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WKtGeTyAWUHt6KtJITIWw1c69UtDwV3TJzJ-XTRohcK1cbDc8A3cVpIWdS7Aw-lDkRw1P5NL9dkt1JMuA-wCBMrTF8MI7_LsjQvvTS8ig9BmEfuKJruZXEvb0kWkOPRZnBWwD5I2OFM/s400/jess14.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">3) Do you plan on getting more? </span><br /><br />Yes. If I ever stop being pregnant! I can't wait for Los to finish my Jesus tattoo and get him started on finishing the rest of my right arm. I need to get something for my children and the other side of my neck will be reserved for my dad. Legs, maybe and my throat will be the very last thing I will do before I die.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">4) How do your family and friends feel about your tattoo(s)? Have you run into any adversity or negativity because of them?</span><br /><br />My mom and dad disowned me when they found out how much I was tattooed. I hid them till about 5 years ago and they found out through finding me in a magazine. Whoops! My mom had said that I would never find a husband looking the way I did. Well, her protest only lasted a few months and I showed up at her door in only a bikini. She also takes back ever saying I wouldn't find a husband, because I've been happily married for 3+ years and she loves my (tattooed) husband. My family doesn't even notice them anymore and they actually stick up for me when people say crappy things about tattooed folk.<br /><br />As for issues with friends, 98% of my friends are heavily tattooed, so its really a non-issue. I don't get too much crap about them from the general public, but unfortunately there is still a stigma attached to heavily tattooed women. We are seen as skanky, un-motherly and irresponsible. Its really unfortunate how tattooed women are treated by society in modern day.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">5) Any advice for those interested in getting tattooed but haven't gotten one yet?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3 things:</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />WAIT!</span> I honestly don't suggest getting tattooed till you are 26, because your taste as an eager 18 year old, might be done out of trends and you don't really know yourself till you have actually lived and decided who you really are.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">RESEARCH!</span> Too many times people go to the local-yokal "tat" shop and blindly choose an artist. Scourer magazines, blogs and websites in search for the artist that "speaks" to you and your style. If that means you got to fly or drive a few hours, its worth it! It's on your body forever, why would you skimp out on a permeant feature on your body? It's like half assing on picking out a leg... If you got to choose what leg you wanted on you for the rest of your life, wouldn't you want to pick out the best looking leg?!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PUT DOWN THE PENCIL!</span> It's fine and dandy to come up with a rough idea (sketch) of what you want to show your artist, but let them take control. They are the artist! I promise they know more about tattoo art than you and what looks good, fits good and an overall aesthetic, (if you had done good research of the artist). This also means, leave your cousin thats in prison out of the designing of your tattoo, too. (Most) artists won't admit to your face that they hate your drawing, but they do. It's worse than picking out random tattoo flash. Trust me.

Tattoo Tuesday V.11

I am so happy to present one of my most favorite blogger lady-friends ever, Jessica! She is such an awesome gal, wonderful wife, and mother...

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The Gaslight Anthem

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3927343518/" title="The Gaslight Anthem, before we moved down to the floor by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="The Gaslight Anthem, before we moved down to the floor" height="308" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2429/3927343518_99054e37e3.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />The Gaslight Anthem is easily my favorite band, and I've been anticipating their new album "American Slang" that comes out on SideOneDummy June 15th for so long! Today they released a single off that album and it's really amazing. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/THE-GASLIGHT-ANTHEM/384408923304#!/pages/THE-GASLIGHT-ANTHEM/384408923304?v=app_2405167945">Click here to check it out on Facebook!</a> Be sure to go to the "My Bands" tab to listen.

The Gaslight Anthem

The Gaslight Anthem is easily my favorite band, and I've been anticipating their new album "American Slang" that comes out on ...

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Back to work I go...

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4446589630/" title="Saturday by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="Saturday" height="375" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4044/4446589630_b916f9b74d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Oh, Monday. A Monday like today is especially rough when it's the start of not just a new week and the first day back from vacation, but the first day of a new quarter. Granted it's the last quarter of the year, but it's a bummer to have to snap out of vacation mode and get back into work mode so abruptly. I write all the time that I like my job, love it even, and I really do, but sometimes I wonder if I just enjoy it so much because I know there's a time stamp on it. I couldn't ever imagine doing this for the rest of my life. A few more years maybe, but I could never be one of those admirable people (like my inspiring Mama), who teach their whole lives. Knowing that I am going to be a stay-at-home mom when Hank and I eventually have kids kind of makes it much easier. Don't get me wrong, my job is incredibly rewarding and I smile every single day knowing I'm making a positive impact in my students' lives, but it's not quite a "career" for me. I hope that makes sense. :)<br /><br />So, today was a good day at work. My sophomores and I started Fahrenheit 451 today (it's probably the 25th time I've read it!) and I'm excited. I love this book a lot and I hope they do too. This week should go by fairly quickly, and then next Friday we have off! So excited. Amber is coming home to Prescott for a visit and we will be heading down to Phoenix so she can get her very first tattoo. I can't wait.<br /><br />Also, I've been reading tons of books lately, but one in particular I wanted to mention: "The Last Song," by Nicolas Sparks. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNJGRKaHe_X3PFXKIU_UunkDi_gr1Wj3SVs_aWfd5MyB3kdnaoBuzjxA5j_2XvLIU2H_qC1PN5sgT4RJBvW8JBOuySLNq13Xkg30PKzgdwhsVkHIK32qtnTSRPiYyr7j0hb9TArd_mWA4/s1600-h/The+Last+Song+MTI_Final.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451672351121426258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNJGRKaHe_X3PFXKIU_UunkDi_gr1Wj3SVs_aWfd5MyB3kdnaoBuzjxA5j_2XvLIU2H_qC1PN5sgT4RJBvW8JBOuySLNq13Xkg30PKzgdwhsVkHIK32qtnTSRPiYyr7j0hb9TArd_mWA4/s400/The+Last+Song+MTI_Final.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br />This book was recommended to me by one of my students, and I have had it for a couple of weeks, but didn't pick it up until recently. I won't give anything away, but I thought it was absolutely beautifully written, full of emotion and overall just a fabulous read. I spent the last 40 minutes of the book crying pretty hard, and it was amazing that it had affected me so deeply. I recommend that all of you read it, and please let me know what you think! The movie opens this weekend, and I am so looking forward to it. I researched the film a bit earlier today and found out that Nicolas Sparks actually wrote the screenplay before he wrote the novel, and Miley Cyrus actually named her own character Ronnie. I know a lot of people are skeptical of Miley- I personally am a huge fan- but after reading the book, I feel she was perfectly cast. In fact, I think the entire movie was. Miley and her love interest in the film are actually dating in real life too, and I find that really sweet and it will make for great on-screen chemistry I'm sure! Here's the trailer:<br /><br /><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/joCwQ2pjfjw&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/joCwQ2pjfjw&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />Have any of you read the book? Are you SO excited to see it? I am literally counting down. Fortunately my friend Robyn is going to see it with me, so I don't have to drag Hank to a movie he definitely doesn't want to watch. Yay for girlfriends!<br /><br />I am heading to sleep, but I hope all of you have a wonderful night. I'll see you tomorrow night for Tattoo Tuesday!<br /><br />xoxo

Back to work I go...

Oh, Monday. A Monday like today is especially rough when it's the start of not just a new week and the first day back from vacation, but...

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Friday/Saturday

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4448614477/" title="weekend :) by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="weekend :)" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2789/4448614477_46735254c3.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />my hair is SO long! I am beyond happy :)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4448614513/" title="the longest my hair has ever been! by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="the longest my hair has ever been!" height="375" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4448614513_1c4d676e59.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />It's so good to be home. I spent most of yesterday in a tired, slightly jet-lagged daze, not doing much of anything outside of catching up the Real Housewives episodes I missed while in Hawaii, and being pretty lazy. When Hank got home from work, we headed down to Phoenix to spend time with my family and have a bit of a relaxing weekend. I've written it before, but Hank doesn't get a lot of days off at this point (although that is soon coming to an end), so when he does, we try to take full advantage. We spent last night celebrating my Dad's birthday and ate delicious pizza and ice cream cake! Afterward, we all just sat around the dining room table and talked all night. It was awesome.<br /><br />This morning Hank and I woke up with a huge to-do list. He needed a few new pairs of jeans and a new hoodie, so we went down to Tempe and took care of that. We had a delicious impromptu lunch at Green, and then headed over to Cosmos so my sweet friend/big sister Rhonda could do our hair. She's been doing my hair since we moved to Arizona, when I was about 14, but this was surprisingly the first time she'd cut Hank's. He is super picky and was a little nervous but we both agree this is the best haircut he's ever had! Thank you Rhonda! We love you so much. I feel so happy and lucky you are in my life. Oh! And while there I also got to meet a blog friend Lindsey (<a href="http://thebrownsfam.blogspot.com/">http://thebrownsfam.blogspot.com/</a>), who is a friend of Rhonda's. We got to sit and talk for awhile and I fell in love with her. She's so cute and awesome. So hey Lindsey!<br /><br />For the past couple of days I've been feeling pretty unmotivated to blog, and this morning I tweeted that I had kind of lost interest in it. I received a lot of great responses, and I appreciate the kind words so much! Sometimes it's just hard to see the point of this all- it seems silly and narcissistic at times, and it's hard for me to see the "why." Luckily though, I usually only feel like this rarely. I really enjoy blogging and documenting my life, and I know I will never stop, but sometimes I just need to take a step back for a minute and take a break. It was also hard for me to get back into the swing of things after my little vacation, but I'm back now and feeling positive about it.<br /><br />I go back to work Monday, and it's something I'm both dreading and looking forward to. I'm so excited to see my friends I work with, and to see my kiddos, but it's hard to get back into the groove of it all when I've enjoyed almost two weeks off. I shouldn't complain though, I know...summer break starts in 8.5 short weeks and it's going to be so wonderful.<br /><br />SO, I hope all of you are having a great weekend. It's been a family weekend for us, and I feel so happy. I hope you are experiencing the same feeling!<br /><br />Lots of love.<br /><br />squinty in Tempe<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4448614367/" title="squinty in the sun by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="squinty in the sun" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4448614367_8e758cc00f.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />awkward, falling off belt :/<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4448614253/" title="Tempe by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="Tempe" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2712/4448614253_4b0386524b.jpg" width="369" /></a><br /><br />pre-haircut. He is so handsome :)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4449390998/" title="pre-haircut! <3 by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="pre-haircut! <3" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2693/4449390998_d86ebdb239.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4448614151/" title="feet! by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="feet!" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2679/4448614151_5552543b09.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />veggie burger and their yummy pasta at Green! mmm<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/4448628055/" title="vegan lunch at Green! by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="vegan lunch at Green!" height="375" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4448628055_8f589dee6c.jpg" width="500" /></a>

Friday/Saturday

my hair is SO long! I am beyond happy :) It's so good to be home. I spent most of yesterday in a tired, slightly jet-lagged daze, not d...

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