thoughtfully sharing

No time to breathe! But, I'm not complaining.

2012-02-15T06:09:00.000-08:00

Well now that Family Fun Night is over you'd think I could relax. Nope. That is not the case. Flyers for the book fair, help my helpers find help (that's a never-ending loop), sign up to work shifts myself b/c we have such a lack of volunteers, and on another PTO note I need to help a friend with the science fair. Off PTO, I had to thouroughly clean my house to host Bunco - which was a choice I made and don't regret - it was a fun evening, but I had no idea this month would be so full (and as our principal mentioned - it's the shortest month of the year!). But, I do have to be honest - when I say thouroughly cleaned the house - I mean the main floor. You can't walk upstairs without looking down to find footing. I am waiting for the Mondays and Fridays I have off from work AND extracurricular activites to clean up there whhile the kids are in school. Just knowing it's a disaster up there makes me feel bogged down. Plus, I want to go to the Y on Monday's and Fridays - I don't put myself first - it just seems wrong to do so. But, the more I keep going on and on like this - I just might have to 'get over it.' :)I love the PTO but I don't love having my hand in it all. The reading program, science fair, and being VP were by design - Family Fun Night (which required my time, money, and more) ran from October to February and Book Fair, in Fall and in Spring - those blindsided me and two others who had to step up - because no one else would. It's for the kids - it's for the school, which I support whole-heartedly, and yes - I do do it for me (a purpose, socialization, etc.). So, I'm just going to have work super hard to find volunteers for next year - especially the book fair. The district rep and local rep keep calling me - wanting to set up meetings, etc. I flat-out told the local rep I didn't want this particular job and hope to have someone else take it over next year.

Well, that's enough of a break - I must get back to work. (Thumbs down - I just need to win the lottery. But, it helps to actually play it, huh?)

Family Fun Night 2012

2012-02-13T04:12:00.000-08:00

These pictures speak for themselves! But, I have to say that everyone on our committee worked exceptionally hard to make this year's FFN the best! I pushed for the Balloon Room which was a hit because kids love balloons - but having the kids walking around with them - decorated the school. It was so cool! The Jail that Ross and his neighbor built was fantastic! The kids loved (okay - so the adults, too) having people arrested or having friends arrested - by real police officers! The food was great, pizza from Figaros and cookies from Hardees - I just can't stop thinking about our success! From raffle baskets to the silent auction - from food to games, let's not forget the prizes!, and 50/50 - our FFN WAS the best! Woohooo!

But, I am glad it's over. LOL!

Heart-Shaped pee . . . hehehe

2012-02-12T09:54:00.000-08:00

Elvis's heart shaped pee! LOL! Too funny!

And I call myself a nurse. . .

2012-02-09T06:07:00.000-08:00

So, Joshua got a boo-boo yesterday. It's on the palm of his hand - I think as he was coming off the slide at school (obviously head first) he put out his hands and slid on the pavement. There is a small chunk of skin that was 'lifted.' Apparently, he was doctored at school by the secretary, which is fine. When he finally got around to showing it to me yesterday - there are things I should've done, but didn't. I should've been a good nurse, or the 'good mom,' and cleaned it right away, applied neopsorin, and bandaged it. I should have. But, I wasn't in 'nursing mode' and the 'boy boo-boo, show no fear, not a big deal, oh well' mom in me said, "What were you doing?" "Did Barb give you a band-aid?" Replies: he told me a longer version of his adventures at recess, and "yes." Story done. Situation over. My next comment was directed at my mother, "are you going to make cornbread?" So, as you can see, there was no 'fore-thinking' on my part and I carried on with the evening, at which time, we were in the middle of working out what was for dinner.

Now, 20 minutes before he's supposed to head out to the bus he shows me his boo-boo - not thinking anything is wrong. The first thing I noticed was it was puffy. Puffy. Hmm. So, I went to feel at which time Joshua must have realized, 'something must not be right!' After some "no, no, no" I was able to hold his hand and feel his boo-boo. It was hard. That's odd. It shouldn't be puffy and it shouldn't be hard. So, the initial impression was it needed to be sliced open, cleaned, flap laid flat, neosporined and bandaged. But, I lack in the confidence area - to do that myself, knowing my exacto knife would need to be thouroughly sterilized (not to mention, it has a dull blade), I would need to take him to the doctor. Well, my husband thinks I take the kids (and myself) to the doc for the most tedious of things so I sought his opinion in the rare hope he'd automatically defer to my judgement. No such luck.

So, after him making me feel even less competent in my knowledge as a nurse, I proceeded to burn a needle, poke my kids' boo-boo, and press on the lump of puffy skin to 'push out' any puss. Well, 1st of all - the needle hole is too small to push anything out - doesn't matter if it's liquid. So, as the bus was due to arrive any minute - I neosporined him, band-aided him, and kicked him out the door with his hand in the air (because now, you know, he's not going to use and will gaurd it with his life). So, we'll see what it looks like when he gets home.

Why did I become a nurse????? Because I loved Candy-striping and my husband suggested that since I loved it so much - go to school to be a nurse. LONG stretch, people! Marketing, design, writing, etc - that's more my avenue. But, it's a wee bit too late now.

:(

2012-02-03T18:01:00.000-08:00

I sincerely hope that when I'm old, regardless of my situation, I find reason to be happy and not painfully bitter. When my granny dies I think the sorrow I will feel will be because of the ways she's spent the last years of her life. I've already said good-bye in my heart because I can't tolerate speaking to her on the phone. She may start out sweet but the conversation always turns to how much she hates a given person at that moment. And, she justifies herself! This would be much harder if I lived near her still. But, where we once spoke on the phone daily, we now go months - and she's the one who calls me. I will do my best to remember her in her younger years and all the positive influence she had on my life. Unfortunately, I must remember the bad as well - if only so I can keep fresh in my mind - what I do not want to become.

My Latest Project

2012-01-29T06:31:00.000-08:00

All I need to do is add pic's of the boys.

Silent Auction Catalog

2012-01-27T14:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I have worked my a** flat sitting this chair for Who-knows-how-many-hours (let's just say I've worked 'Full-Time') on this auction catalog for my child's school fundraiser. I am very proud of myself, having no formal knowledge of computers and they way they work. I have taught myself how to use Google, my blog, powerpoint, etc. I am not afraid to try the things I don't understand, to figure them out, and then be able to explain them to others. So, please - feel free to view the auction catalog that I made, which includes links to webpages of businesses that have donated to our event.

All you need to do to view the catalog is click on the post title: Silent Auction Catalog.

S. :)

Joshua's birthday cake that I made

2012-01-22T21:09:00.001-08:00

Joshua's 7!

2012-01-22T13:48:00.001-08:00

Well, my baby is now 7. He still cuddles with me and gives me some of the best hugs - but it won't be long before I get quick pats on the back and cheek-kisses only. I'm going to try my dead-level best to prolong his sweetness.

At any rate, Joshua got to celebrate his birthday at Wild Air! Max and Tyler rode with us, I had an alternate Justin and my own Tyler with us as well, while my own Justin was dropped off at home from a sleep-over at a friends house (I'm sure my 13 year old enjoyed the solitude). (Did you get all that???) We met a friend from school and a friend from another school at Wild Air. So, in size it was only 7 total - but cozy. All the little friends got along exceptionally well.

1 hour and 15 minutes of play had these boys scrambling for the pizza - they can really put it away. Throw in unlimited soda and the boys all began a chorus of burping. Of which we attempted to curtail but when you have multiple children participating and - not being your own - how forceful can you get? Kind of embarassing but THEY were having a blast. All I can say is if it were a group of girls - I'm sure the music would have been much sweeter. Oh well - this is what I've got. :)

I baked Joshua's cake - three layers of nana's pound cake - which is perfect by itself. But, since it was a birthday - I iced that baby! After 3 lbs of confectioner's sugar - it was a wee bit rich. But, hey - it WAS tasty. But, most of all - - - it was sooooo cute!!!! I did good. :) Like my aunt Nancy said before, "presentation is half the battle."

Afterwards, I brought my tag-a-longs home to play for a while I ran my own Tyler to his guitar lessons. Then, when I got back I drove the boys home. It was a fun time for all.

Scenes from Wild Air on Joshua's 7th Birthday!

2012-01-22T12:55:00.000-08:00

Justin's Mane

2012-01-22T12:44:00.000-08:00

Have mercy! This kids needs a haircut! My kid has such beautiful hair - that would be lovely on a girl. It grows so fast. And, look at him! 13 and you can see peach fuzz on that upper lip! OMG - he's gonna be shaving soon.

It was a very Merry Christmas for Us!

2012-01-06T14:31:00.000-08:00

Tyler's Christmas 2011

2012-01-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

Tyler: This was the best Christmas.
Sky: Why's that?
Tyler: I got everything I wanted.
Sky: Don't get used to it!

Ha! Talk about getting it all! Tyler got a rifle from Santa, a micro-scope from Grandpa Terry and Grandma Wanda, and from me and Sky he got his very own laptop! Spoiled rotten little bugger! :) He also got a desk for his computer from Nana and Grand-daddy. He also got a lot of clothes!

Joshua's Christmas 2011

2012-01-06T14:08:00.000-08:00

Joshua had a great Christmas! Santa brought him his very own - set of clubs! Look out Tiger! Haha - I about lost my breath when he decided to test swing his driver in the house, near the TV! He got a bean bag from Granny Great, clothes, a light-up lightsaber from Mi-Maw, and from me and Sky he got his very own - iPod Touch! He LOVES it. And, with all the great educational apps - I love it - for him!

Justin's Christmas 2011

2012-01-06T13:54:00.000-08:00

Justin had a wonderful Christmas! His big gift was a Kindle Fire and $100 from Amazon to spend on books and apps! He also got clothes and money! Another interesting thing he got was a programming kit to make his own game console. That was from Grandpa Terry and Grandma Wanda - Let's see how crafty he is. . .

Bugs in my pie???

2011-12-31T20:22:00.000-08:00

Well, for Christmas I made my first-ever pecan pie. Thanks to Tammy for telling me how easy it was (after chuckling first at me thinking it was difficult). It was very good but before we even cut into it Joshua looked at it. And that was it. "Mom, why does that look like it's made of bugs?"

LOL! So, now every time I slice into, or even see or think, of pecan pie - I think, 'bug pie.'

Thank you, Joshua!

Gingerbread Houses 2011

2011-12-14T18:56:00.000-08:00

Well, they didn't all turn out perfect and pretty - but they sure were tasty! And, we had lots of fun. I'm glad mama and Robbie got to be here with us to make them. It was very messy - but very 'family' fun!

FB response to author's request

2011-12-05T19:44:00.000-08:00

I find it very interesting how a single description can appear so very different from person to person. Granted, we might read a description but instead of imagining it to a tee/T (?) we pick and choose the aspects we like and fill in the rest with our own image that 'makes/builds' the look of the character. That is how I got my 13 year old interested in reading when he was only 6. I read to him a paragraph from a book in which the character was described as wearing a red shirt, etc., etc. Then, I asked him to picture that red shirt. I asked, 'in your mind does it have a pocket? Is it a button up shirt, a pullover, a t-shirt, a sweater? Is it long-sleeved or short?' Then, I pointed out that reading can be fun because we can supply our own image with help from the description like making a movie in our heads, and that while we all read the same story - the images will be our own.

This is part of the response I gave on Karen Marie Moning's FB page in which she is/was searching for images of attire that fit a certain character (Barrons) for her comic book. Many of the images were so different than what I had imagined. Then, I got to thinking about it . . . Interesting, huh?

Advice to my eldest son . . .

2011-11-29T19:11:00.000-08:00

Be wise,
Set a good example,
Don’t compare,
Learn to forgive,
Take a deep breath.
Listen.
Stop, and think.
Always say something nice,
Bite your tongue before speaking out of turn.
Never assume; have proof.
Don’t retaliate, though it’s okay to defend.
Remember that in the end you will always have your brother, your oldest friend.
When you’re young life seems long and stretched out before you.
But, when you’re older you’ll realize it’s quite short, indeed.
Trust me; I’ve been where you will be.
Don’t roll your eyes, don’t sigh. You’ll be glad you were kind.
Time doesn’t stop. The seconds tick on. Don’t waste good times on anger and tears.
Always –
Be a good brother.

The Polar Express 2011

2011-11-26T07:25:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful night! I took Joshua to The Polar Express at the National Railroad Museum. We've been three or four times before but boy - has it changed! We arrived just before 6:30. At 6:30 they opened the doors, exchanged paper print-outs for physical tickets for authentic looking souvenirs. We proceeded to find a seat in the beautifully decorated Lenfesty Center. We got prime seating on the inside row so that Joshua could clearly see the projector. He didn't want to sit on the carpet up front which was available for kids so they all could have a good view - of the story & the narrator. Once our seats were saved we walked around to see all the beautiful trees professionally decorated by supporting businesses. It was all very well done and just spiriting to see! Joshua got to play toss the snowball - into the snowman. It was cute. There was at least one other game available, toss the rings on the reindeer's antlers. But, Joshua wanted to wait in line for a tattoo. He ran up to sit in the Big Boy before we finally took our seats. It all began with a wonderful song and dance number by the authentically decked out volunteer staff as conductors - to the tune of Get your Hot Choc - o - lat! It was super-entertaining. Then, we were all served our hot chocolat'. Cups were collected and then, the story began. The narrator was wonderful, the same man from many years ago when we first came to hear The Polar Express. At the end of the story on of the conductors held up his lantern and yelled, "All aboard!" And the crowd swarmed to board the trains. Three laps around the museum grounds - on our first trip our tickets were punched. On the second we received a chocolate coin. And, on the thrid we received our bells - and only those who truly believe - could hear them ring! Before pulling into the station the whole train car sang Rudolf the Red nose Reindeer, Santa's Coming To Town, Frosty the Snowman (in which we learned most folks - only know the chorus - myself included - it was funny), and We Wish You a Merry Christmas. It was a marvelous way to ring in the season! Then, we got off the train and headed into the museum to see Santa. We were the last ones in line but Joshua did a fantastic job waiting. Santa was sitting ont the caboose in the drum head gallery - it was, as always, a perfect set-up. When we finally got to Santa Joshua sat on his lap (boy - has he gotten big) and told Santa he wanted a football - and some food. When Santa asked what kind of food Joshua replied, "Red Lobster." LOL! I had to tell Santa in our excitement to get there that evening - I completely forgot to feed my kid! It was funny. Joshua and I departed the museum - Joshua eating his candy cane Santa had given him. We had a wonderful time! I will miss this in just a few short years.

Christmas Kitties

2011-11-25T20:35:00.000-08:00

Halloween

2011-11-17T17:02:00.000-08:00

Well, Justin didn't trick or treat this year. There comes a time when one is too old to do so. However, conversation with another mom (from Bunko) made me realize - what's the harm. At least here we have specified hours - and I will know where he is. So, I think I'll encourage it next year. The other two had fun, as usual - except Joshua got tired of walking after about an hour. We had Justin T. and Blake along with us this year. Scaring candy out of the neighbors is more fun with friends!

Sweet story in Criminal Minds episode I wanted to share

2011-11-11T12:07:00.000-08:00

“Bedtime for Baby Star”

Once there was a baby star. He lived up near the sun. And every night at bedtime that baby star wanted to have some fun. He would shine and shine, and fall and shoot and twinkle oh so bright. And he said: "Mommy I´ll run away if you make me say Good Night!"

And then his mommy kissed his sparkly nose and said: "No matter where you go, no matter where you are, no matter how big you grow, and even if you stray far, I’ll love you forever, ‘cause you’ll always be my baby star."

This was ready by JJ on Criminal Minds in the episode There's No Place Like Home. I thought it was super sweet. I've posted the question on whether it's a real book/story or if it was written just for the show. I don't know yet.

Halloween Treats

2011-10-31T07:21:00.000-07:00

Here is some Halloween fun - I have orange-o-lanterns, mummies, and Tyler with his carved pumpkin.

Home

2011-10-29T15:42:00.000-07:00

I love my blog. Even if no one reads it but me - it feels like Home. There are times when I miss my kids, when they're just at school. Or, there are times when I miss my husband because he's working, or gone from the house 14 hours a day (well, night - but he sleeps all day). And, I can just click on the orange and white 'B' icon, and see all the things that matter most to me: Pictures of my kids, videos that make me laugh, posts that make me feel mushy, and I have connections to other things that matter to me. For example, links to my favorite authors that remind me of specific books that invoke specific feelings. Or, links to other websites such at DYAC.com that crack me up and nearly cause me to 'pee my pants!' Yes, I do love my blog. And, it does feel like 'Home' as silly as it may sound to some.

being candid

2011-10-25T16:07:00.001-07:00

My mom asked me what I wanted for Christmas. My reply, "magical things you can only find on TV shows and in movies!" (As she's telling me, "you need to mop.") Then she said I needed to teach the boys. She said, "what did you have kids for?" I said, "I didn't think beyond the baby years." :) I thought that was a cute exchange.

I really like this quote!

2011-10-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

Failure Is Not Fatal - Picture Quotes

You can click on the link but here's what is says:

Failure is a Detour, Not a Dead End.

Losing is a part of life that we all encounter and all must learn to cope with. Just because we fail at something at a time in which we thought we would succeed does not at all mean that we cannot obtain success. Truthfully the only way in which one will never be able to obtain success is if they never tried, or stopped trying.

Never give up on your dreams, for their will be times in which you feel like you have done all that you can. The only dead ends in life are those that are on street signs, if you keep pushing through and fighting for what you know you have set in your heart to do, you will accomplish your dreams. Live by the standard that no one will ever see you quit, because quitting shouldn't even be an option to you. Finish in everything you do, finish with a victory!

YYYYYY M C Aa

2011-10-24T08:30:00.000-07:00

Is it stuck in your head yet? LOL! Well, I joined. Family plan - which I got them to include my mom and sister since they live in the same house. I'm excited because Justin & Tyler can go by themselves to use the weights, bb court, swim - I don't have to be with them OR in the building with them. That's wonderful! They are going to take a 3 hour class on Wednesday to learn all thing 'Y.' They will really love that. Joshua, it turns out, isn't too old to take advantage of the Kids Korner. They have a room targeted for his age up to eight. I have my info appointment Wednesday as well. If my mom and sis aren't working I'll have them come, too. So, I'm looking forward to it. I hope I can make a go of it - this time. I sign up for stuff like this and Sky rolls his eyes. Not very supportive. But, I'm bound and determined to make it work this time. Me and Kimber will attempt Weight watchers together, too, at some point. I wish she lived closer so she could go to the Y with me. :(

Wish me luck!

Fall

2011-10-16T11:40:00.000-07:00

Finally, the weather is cool and crisp! I took the boys to Delzers Pumpkin place out past Pulaski. The price was excellent! Tickets were $5 each and included 4 'punches.' Any tickets that weren't used up could be used toward the purchase of pumpkins. So, for 4 tickets and a total of 6 pumpkins and one Indian tied colored corn decoration I spent $22! But, money aside - it was quite fun. The corn maze was really good. I got lost and at one point happened upon a dead end with a zombie character (on a post) that actually startled me. LOL! We all opted to skip the hay ride because the line was fairly long. Joshua rode the tractor train and had his face painted. We went through the haunted granary and toured the little petting zoo. The boys tried to get me to buy a kitten. Nope. Three is enough! At any rate, we had a good time. It seems like it's been so long since I've done anything fun with my boys. Although, I do wish I had called my friend, Kimber, to come along but I didn't have the forsight to do so before I hit the road. As the kids get older I'm learning I enjoy doing things with them more - with company. They like having friends around. And, of course, when they have friends around the grown-ups get a little left out - so we parents have to hang together! :) In the end - everyone has a great time - together!

A Right Start

2011-10-10T03:37:00.001-07:00

So, these past several weeks, since school started, really - have been chaotic; Unorganized, unplanned, and too highly 'eventful.' Even though I've been trying my best to get to bed at a decent time I ruin any good intentions of starting the next day off right - by not getting up, getting showered, and in general - just 'waking up.' I usually face a morning at the computer working (interrupted by kids getting ready for school, having to alternate taking mine and another to cross-country, phone calls, emails, etc.)with nothing to do until later on in the afternoon. But, since Sky is on nights and is sleeping until 2pm - I find I have to be real quiet sneaking in to shower and get dressed, not being able to take my time, relax, and basically - get a good start (regardless of the time of day).

Today is Monday, the 10th of October. I got up at 5am (no snooze for me this morning), showered and shaved my legs - finally (to which Sky replied, "just put the hedge-trimmer back in the garage." LOL!). I got dressed in actual clothes (not lay around the house in too-small of clothes that show off all my splendor). I already blow-dryed my hair and the curling iron is on. Now, I have a moment to kill while wating for the sweat on face to dry to type this little log, blog. :) On my agenda today is a pto executive meeting at 8, results for Tyler's 'brain' testing at 10, a trip to Lane Bryant to pay my bill (only! No shopping. Well, maybe a little.) and to run by B&N with a 20% off coupon. When I come home I have to call around for window replacement quotes - and perhaps - work an hour. Oh - I do have a confirmation call I need to make for work on Wednesday - but I can do that from a paarking lot. :)

I'm on the right track today. And, being on the right track today will make it easier to stay on the right track tomorrow.

But, I'm not the only one with a right start to her day - Both my kids alarms went off at 4:30 am - I'm like 'What the heck, did I change the time on my clock when I set my alarm?' Nope. So, they 'slept in' and finally got up - get this: on time! Haha! Tyler's completely ready to go! Justin's not far behind (but has an extra 30 minutes anyway).

So, here goes. . . Let the day begin!

2011-10-06T06:50:00.000-07:00

I can't wait until next week - no worries about this refresher course anymore. That's one burden I can scrape from my over-full plate. Soon, all I will have to worry about is working and this PTO business (which is really driving me insane). Why do people sign up to be a helper or volunteer when they have absolutely no intention of helping out. It's very frustrating.

Last night while getting in missed hours from yesterday (my paid job) I began to feel real - lost and lonely. I'm sure a lot of it has to do with Sky working the outage - and how I will not get to spend time with him until after Christmas. The outage is slated to end just before Christmas - but it rarely ends on time.

Anyway, I'm procrastinating - back to the 'other' computer. If you think it's a breeze to work from home - think again!

Bad Cantaloupes? Sheesh!

2011-09-28T06:45:00.000-07:00

I love cantaloupes! Now, I may not eat one for a long, long time!

If money weren't an issue (and we all need $$ - mortgage, loans, bills, etc) I'd grow corn, fruit, etc. We already have chickens (eggs only) - and I could totally be a vegitarian (well, let's say - minus one day per month {LOL}).

Just another desire of mine that prooves I was born in the wrong time & wrong place!

FaMilY TimE

2011-09-26T04:33:00.000-07:00

Tonight Sky begins another outage at the nuclear plant. The easiest explanation of the term 'outage' is they stop the unit from producing electricity, discard the spent fuel, make any reapairs/upgrades, and refuel, and bring the unit back online and begin producing electricity again. It's a very long process that requires 'all hands on deck' working non-stop. Well, a nuclear plant requires non-stop work regardless. But, the hours do change and can be hard on families. Sky will be working 4 on, 1 off - which means he'll work 4 days in a row and off one. However, days is misleading - my husband will be working nights. These are 12 hour shifts, of which everyone, in many jobs across the world know that you always arrive early for work - in some jobs, earlier than others. Add that to the fact we chose to live nearly an hour away from his job - and you've got some pretty long days(nights). The routine will be such that he sleeps until anywhere between 2 and 4pm. He will cut out some of his sleep to go work out on this shift because it keeps him energized during long nights. I can understand that. Then, he leaves for work. Know that the big boys (middle school), if they don't have a game or practice, arrive home at 3:30pm and the little guy doesn't get home until 4:20pm. So, they will not see him in the afternoons - the little guy, not at all. The big boys - a few minutes. Then, he'll arrive home in the am around 7:30, maybe a little later and go, almost directly, to bed. The big boys leave at 6:30am and the little guy leaves for the bus at 8am. So, whereas the big boys can see their dad a few minutes in the after noon, the little one gets a few minutes in the am. 4 days? That's not bad. No. except on night shift fo so long you can't come off nights just for one day - it's impossible. So, Sky will remain on this work at night/sleep during the dya schedule until the outage is over - sometime around Christmas but if history repeats itself - well into the new year. During this time the kids get real ansy and frustrated. Soooo - last night we spent a little quality family time with dad. I went and got wings from The Bar, we all ate at the table and had conversations. Then, we cleaned up and all played Yahtzee together - and you know what? It was a whole lot of fun. After that we hooked up SingStar and sang until bed. We didn't go anywhere and managed to have more fun at home. So, I think we'll implement this on the nights that he doesn't have to leave so early for work because he's off. My point of this whole blog post is: If I can manage one out of every two off nights for family time - hopefully that will be enough that all of our minds, attitudes, and frustrations are kept in check. I know though, that occasionally Sky might need to go hang out by himself or have some fun at a bar with 'friends.' It's a tough time of the year we're embarking on. So, wish us luck that we get through it without any major debacles and tears (though the tears would most likely be my own). Sigh. Ready, set, GO!

Small World

2011-09-22T19:34:00.000-07:00

Well, I was cooking a frozen entre in the oven the other night - it was on my rectangle Pampered Chef bar stone. About 35 minutes into cooking I heard a shot-gun sound come from my oven. . . Well - it broke.

So, I went to the PC website and submitted my info to have a rep call me. Turns out the rep who called - was my rep from Green Bay back in 2006! It was interesting how we figured that out - by location, description of my home and neighborhood. It was just a lot of fun.

Call me sick. . .

2011-09-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

. . .but I kind of enjoy it all. What, you ask? Well, today I had to leave home at 3:30 to go to Tyler's cross-country meet. I love his meets! There is so much excitement and the crowds of moms & dads cheeing their kids on moves me to tears. I wanted to yell, "You're doing great, Tyler" but I was too choked up. I'm really a super-sensitve person. But, after the meet I had to book it to Justin's 1st soccer game of the year. Well, I can't say I enjoy soccer as much. Parents sit in bleachers or on chairs and yell at their kids to do this and do that - it's not like the shouts of encouragement at a cross-country meet. Then, Justin - bless his heart - he just has no interest in soccer - but plays, I think, because he knows how important it is to me - that he be a part of a team or participate in a sport, period. He runs like his legs are made of lead and he's too timid with the ball and contact with other people. Poor guy. If he wanted to pursue the debate team, the yearbook committee, or be on student council - I cheer him on. But, he seems to lack a general excitment for anything. Ever since he discovered Mine Craft on the computer - I think I've lost my real kid! (We do only allow him to play on weekends, tho.) Anyway, after soccer he had to get his instrument for a late band practice with the high school band. Well, the middle school band doors were locked. So, over to the high school we go, got keys from Mr. K, went back to the middle school. Well, the band room is next to entrance #2 but the only open doors are through the pool entrance. So, I had Justin run through the pool entrance to the #2 doors to open them for me. 'Bout that time the other band teacher showed up and I had no use for Mr. K's keys! So, just as we exit door #2 - I asked Justin if he had his lyre. The kid thought we were going home for it! Seriously!???? So, there he goes again through the pool entrance around to the band room to catch the teacher still inside in hopes of finding a lyre he could use. Well, fortunately, she helped him piece one together. Now, instead of having time to eat, I had to drop him off for practice. Me and Tyler got food and sat in the parking lot for over an hour because it just didn't make sense to go home and come back 30 minutes later - when it's 15 minutes to get home and 15 minutes to get back to the school. I'm so dizzy right now my words are blurring together and I really don't know what I'm typing! But, truth be told, I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy it just a wee bit. :) This is kind of what I pictured when I thought about having kids. Now, just as things settle down and the boys sports are all finished up - Joshua will start basketball. :)

My boys!

2011-09-17T15:55:00.000-07:00

Something Unexpected. . .

2011-09-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

We went to lunch at Regatta 220 to celebrate Robbie's 19th birthday. NO. LOL! We did not plan to dress alike!

1st Meet!

2011-09-13T15:53:00.000-07:00

I got there a little late. I did get to see Tyler cross the finish line. He told me he fell in the woods. :( Oh well. Here are pic's of him and Mitchell stretching after the run.

Playground Time!

2011-09-10T20:21:00.000-07:00

Joshua & Devon at the playground.

My mom

2011-09-09T16:57:00.000-07:00

This is my mom. She had an interview today at Pioneer Credit Union. I hope she gets it! She looked great!

My Packer Backers!

2011-09-09T16:46:00.000-07:00

Robbie and Joshua

Crafty Me. . .

2011-09-09T16:43:00.000-07:00

This is the raffle bucket I made for the teachers raffle.

1st day of school, 2011

2011-09-09T16:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know I have more pic's of Joshua - but let's face it: It's so much more exciting when they're young. :) I got Justin drinking his coffee (LOL!), and Tyler's back as he and Mitchell are headed to cross-country practice (I had asked them to pose for me ?) Anyway, the school year is off to a great start - for EVERY one! :)

It's ALL mine!! :)

2011-09-08T10:48:00.001-07:00

I am typing this post from MY new computer! :) But, unfortunately, there isn't much else to say right now.

2011-09-07T08:18:00.001-07:00

UGH! Computers!

Really? . . . . YES!

2011-08-24T17:32:00.001-07:00

Well, Tyler & I see a therapist occasionally because we have issues. I'm sure all parents go through this sort of thing with a child or two - and it helps. I don't care if it's normal or not - for us - seeing a therapist helps. One of the things we have discussed over a number of visits (in regards to myself) is the fact that I have a terrible memory. THAT is the reason I take so many pictures and scrap. It's proof, evidence, that I was a good mom and we did things and we had fun. Pictures may not always trigger memories with me but at least I have proof that I was there and we did that! But, there are things for which a picture can't help. That poses a problem when trying to deal with 3 boys arguing and saying, "but you said . . . " and "last time . . . " - etc. It's part of the reason I'm so inconsistent. Anyway, another thing I've brought up is that I can't find the right words to express what I mean. Nothing comes out clearly. It's why I will avoid a confrontation at all possible costs. I'll stand and stutter or mumble things that make no sense. I did tell him that I can sit at the computer and type exactly what I mean. I said that I think faster than I talk and that's part of my problem when dealing with confrontational issues, either with my kids or other folks. But, I can type - REALLY fast!

You wanna know what he told me?????? He said, "That's the ADD." I'm like, "whaaaaaaat?????" LOL! Halleluja! I've said it for YEARS! If it had been as widely known when I was a kid - I'd have been on meds and my life would probably be very different - all good (w/ the execption I might have finished college the first time around and never have met Sky).

So, I would LOVE to be REally tested! And, YES. I'd love to try some meds. I think it'd be neat to feel what a normal person feels like for a change - to have the organization of thought and say what you mean the first time around. Oh - so many things I think of that I could do better if I had a clear head. :)

Jerabek Challenge 4-mile run

2011-08-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

Tyler did a great job! Over 600 runners and walkers - and he was 415 (or something like that). He wants to do it again next year and Sky said he'd run with him!

WWII re-enactment @ RRM

2011-08-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

This was a lot of fun!

Before, During, and After - Justin getting Braces!

2011-08-12T09:32:00.000-07:00

Awww!

Scenes from Evergreen! (minus the fun, naughty ones! LOL!)

2011-08-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

You can click on the image and it will enlarge and they you'll be able to see all the pictures clearly. It was a fun camping trip - for the most part. This is the one where the little girl drown - how I wish I could find out her current condition (she didn't die). But, we had a large group. Saturday morning we had omelets and in the evening we had kabobs. I like the community meals. We arrived a day earlier than the rest of the group so we had a day to ourselves. I enjoy camping both ways! I wish we could cram one more in before the end of the season when we have to turn our camper in to be fixed from that accident in TN. Next year - I plan on camping a lot! :)

Just how is a mom NOT to be over-protective???

2011-08-08T05:47:00.000-07:00

So, two Friday's ago the kids' friend, not so much - but a child they used to hang out with, was riding his bike and hit by an Escalade. I'm guessing 45/50 mph. Last I heard when I took his mom to the hospital one day was he was in a medically induced coma with a skull fracture, a fracture of T6 and T8, somewhat paralyzed on his left side, will have to learn to walk again and may be slow - I don't know if that was at best or what. It's hard to determine the level of brain damage when in a coma. So, he wasn't wearing a helmet but doc's say even so - at that speed - it might not have done any good anyway. Thing is - I'd never have let my kids ride their bikes on that road, nor many others with speed limits of only 35. So, my paranoia has me demanding my kids now wear helmets. But, because they never did before Sky says we should encourage them, not demand. ????? I see his point but we're the parents. Truth is - Sky is on the fence about helmet use. So, when we went camping he told the kids (Joshua must always wear his - hands down, no argument) that they didn't have to wear them on Thursday but had to the rest of the time we were there. Of course, they complained. Well - not Tyler so much - we bought him a new, "comfy" helmet because his old one was "uncomfy." But, Justin's was so loose - what was the point???? Well, a little girl, 4, at jellystone - not where we were camping - was run over by a vehicle at the campground and had to be airlifted! I read the story to Justin off my phone (thank you wifi). He allowed me to tighten his helmet straps.

But - as if that wasn't enough. . . On Thursday we let all three of the boys go to the pool by themselves and told Justin he was responsible for Joshua - who is 6 1/2. Justin is 13, and Tyler is 11. So, on Friday - at our very campground - a little 7 year old girl drowned! Well, she did drown but last I heard was on life support. CPR was performed for 20 minutes before the ambulance arrived. (Campgrounds are out in the boonies.) Her parents were not at the pool with her but the dad was walking up at some point before he knew of any accident. Hell - me and Sky didn't bother going to the pool on Thursday - where it was less crowded. Now, you'd think that on Friday - being more crowded - someone would have noticed. Well, when we were there on Saturday - it was clear that crowded isn't necessarily better for noticing girls under water, flailing about or not. Anyway, I hope all these children will be okay, though I do have my doubts. I cannot find any info on the news about them to learn their conditions, it' frustrating.

But, tell me - just how am I NOT supposed to be over-protective now?????

Just One Example of How the United States Does NOT Care About Its People

2011-08-03T06:47:00.000-07:00

So, the info has been on the Pulaski web page all summer but I just didn't think to look at it - in time. So, we've missed the $20-$25 sports physical screenings that include cardiomyopathy screenings. This is used to detect Sudden Cardiac Death in young people - you know, you hear about athletes dropping dead on the field???

Well, check out this article from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypertrophic_Cardiomyopathy_Screening

It describes how this screening is done and why and then compares the use of this screening to other countries and the US. In summary:

Places like Italy require competitive athletes to undergo physiological testing prior to competing. This consists of a history, physical examination, urinalysis, resting and exercise ECG, and pulmonary functioning test conducted by a sports physician. Further screening of echocardiography is required if abnormalities are detected. Studies have shown an 89% decrease in sudden death due to cardiac abnormalities.

United States

To date, there is no national policy for the screening of CVD or sudden cardiac death in young athletes. Most state laws require competitive athletes to undergo a physician-mediated physical examination and history. ECG or echocardiograms are rarely used. A medical history and physical exam have shown to have little sensitivity or power to detect HCM or other risk conditions. The theory behind this lack of national standard is that screening is viewed as an aspiration to identify a rare cardiovascular disease with low incidence in a large population (approximately 2 in 1000 individuals).

First of all - think of your high school populations. Just about all high schools have 1000, if not double or triple that number, with the exception of many rural schools. Then, again in our situation - being rural - our high school has a high population because all the rural areas are coming together in one location. It's as if our government - and our doctors who aren't fighting for this to change - are expecting each high school to lose at least 2 kids every year. And, just because here in the US we can charge out the wazoo something that should be available to all young people. I said 'young people' folks.

So, I will be a nervous wreck as Tyler runs the Jerabek on the 13th - a 4 mile run up and down hills. This is partially my fault. I say partially because screening for anyone doing this kind of activity should be as detailed as in other countries. At any rate - is it appropriate for me to tell him he can't do any physical activites just because????? No. It isn't. So, I'm left 'taking a chance' with my son's life. It scares the piss out of me but I can't hold him back either.

Good-bye, Sunshine.

2011-07-26T19:03:00.000-07:00

It's a sad day at the Bryant house. Our very friendly and loveable Sunshine met her demise when, most likely, a hawk found its way into the make-shift chicken coop. When Onyx went missing (w/ no sign of any altercation - no feathers or 'parts' left behind) we suspected a hawk or owl swooped in and took her. After that we got more chicken wire and created a roof on the dog run to protect the rest of the girls. Little did I know the narrow 1 foot high (in the center) opening that tapered on either end would be enough for a hawk to navigate in AND out. This time there was definite evidence of a struggle - feathers and entrails left behind - but no sign of her body. So, Hazel, Phoenix, Amber, and Pearl are sleeping with the big girls in the big girl pen/coop. I just hope Ginger and Emma don't gang up on them and have some chicken for a midnight snack. It's gross, I know. But, possible, I suppose. At any rate, we're down to six in all. Let's hope we have no more mishaps and that ALL my girls grow and give us many eggs over the years.

Polka Days Video of PCMS 2011

2011-07-24T17:56:00.000-07:00

Scroll to the very bottom of my blog & you can see a video of the middle school marching in the parade. Justin is in the 2nd row and is 2nd from the left - the one walking extremely straight (stiff) and the only one wearing black socks! LOL!

Scenes from Pulaski Polka Days Parade 2011

2011-07-24T11:27:00.000-07:00

This is such a fun affair! Tons of people show up and line the streets. The floats are always very entertaining. This is the first place (last year) I ever saw bands playing on flatbeds pulled by semi's. It's really quite cool and keeps the crowd motivated. Lots of candy, ice pops, and even bottles of water get passed out. The people are so fun - lucky me, I got to sit across from the craziest, good-looking, boys piddling around in kiddie pools with a kiddie basket ball hoop strapped to the top of a pick-up. LOL! What fun! This year the parade was only about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Much better than last years 2 hour(!) parade. That was just too much. Justin marched with the PCMS band and I'll post that video as soon as I can figure out how to load it! :)

I'm old

2011-07-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

Not too long back I bought Tyler some Sugar Babies. He's been asking for them ever since. Well, I can't recall where I bought them and I have looked for them everywhere. So, today at Super Ron's (grocery store) I asked the three girls at the checkout where I could find them.

"I haven't heard of those." "Oh, do you mean a Sugar Daddy?" "Are they like the Sour Patch candy?"

How do you make a little smiley that looks like it's rolling its eyes??????

So, I had to explain what Sugar Babies were (and a Sugar Daddy - the kind you eat, harhar!). It looks like I'll be taking a trip to Woodman's soon! And, heaven forbid if I don't find them there!

Advice. . .

2011-07-16T13:47:00.000-07:00

Do not be a SAHM when your kids are young. Granted they're at their most loveable then, but it is a much wiser decision to be a SAHM when they're ALL in school. :) Or, at least drop back to part-time.

It's okay to live in the middle of nowhere with no friends for your kids to play with. They will learn to play with each other and you won't have to deal with coniving little brats three doors down corrupting your children! :)

When looking for parking, it's not how close to the store you park but how close you park to a cart return!

Oh, I'm sure there will be more to come. ;)

She will be missed. . .

2011-07-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

Well, Onyx flew the coop! My prettiest, most friendly of the little chicks was either stolen by an owl or hawk - or she stuffed herself through a fence opening, which means an owl or hawk probably THEN swooped down and scooped her up. :( Who knows? Maybe she'll turn up in a day or two - unscathed and hungry. I'll feed her bunches!

Zippin Pippen

2011-07-07T18:30:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful ride. Tummy drop feeling as you ride into the sunset. :-)

My baby girls!

2011-07-06T10:15:00.001-07:00

2011-06-26T17:29:00.000-07:00

Back from a 15 day vacay in Myrtle Beach, SC. This was our third camping trip there in our 3rd camper (at Pirate Land). I told Sky I never want to go back in another camper. I'm done buying campers. Well - driving through TN: YES! TN! A man fainted behind the wheel and totally ran into the bike rack on the camper. The bikes and rack pushed into the bunk house and the impact bowed the hitch in the back of the truck. The other vehicles occupants were okay, albeit stunned from the impact, airbags deploying, etc. They were okay, that is - until they decided they HAD to get their cat out of the car. It tore them up! At anyrate, our camper will take months to repair at well over $10,000. We'll see. Adjuster to come out this week sometime. AGH! Oh well. At least he hit us. Why? Had he hit another vehicle there would have no doubt been many fatalities. Had they hit no one - they would dead off the side of the mountain. Take it how you see it. But, I find it too hard to be too upset because, we were supposed to come back the day before. Plus, Sky WAS looking at an alternate route. ???????

2011-06-26T17:22:00.000-07:00

Love the beach photos. But, the last one is of a group of older people who came out to camp at PirateLand together. They played in the waves - I loved watching them. And, then I came out one day and saw them all sitting in their chairs just watching the ocean and talking and laughing. I hope that will be me someday. How wonderful it is to see older people getting out and having fun and still being young - their skin may wrinkle and hang and their hair may be gray - but they seem so young at heart and full of stamina. They weren't here with grandkids, either and I think that is what set this group apart. Just a bunch of old people, old friends out having a grand time. LOVE IT! :)

2011-06-26T17:19:00.000-07:00

Justin & Joshua swimming at the pier, Tyler fishing at the pier, my BeachToes, and a difficult group shot of my boys at the ocean.

2011-06-26T17:07:00.000-07:00

Kayaking, Building sandcastles, Sky fishing at the pier, and Putt-Putt.

2011-06-26T17:05:00.001-07:00

Eating at Captain George's (OmG! LOVED it! That and Rioz Brazillian Steakhouse). Boardwalk at the Beach for fireworks, and MagiQuest!

2011-06-26T17:01:00.000-07:00

Sky and Tyler did the Sling Shot. As Tyler was getting strapped in he asked the attendant, "Can I have second thoughts?" And, without missing a beat the attendant replied, "You can have all the second thoughts you want, but your not getting off this ride." LOL! They loved it! Justin flat out refused. Me, too. But, I don't know - I might have done it. ????

2011-06-26T16:57:00.000-07:00

Hanging out with Nana & Grandaddy. Everyone loved the lazy river UNder their condo that opened to the outside. The boardwalk was interesting - lots of interesting people and shops. :)

2011-06-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

It was nice that Sky's family got to come and visit. Granny, Uncle Andy, Brandon and Alyssa. Paddle boats. Trying on Nana & Grandaddy's hats from Hawaii in 1985. Catching waves. And, just being goofy - a group pic is actually easier when they were younger and inclined to listen. :)

2011-06-26T16:51:00.000-07:00

The second time we've celebrated Tyler's birthday in Myrtle Beach. For his 11th he got a cell phone. A Blackberry of some sort. But, he also got some much needed clothes from Granny and a B&N gift card from Nana and Grandaddy. I think he had a good one this year. :)

2011-06-09T17:05:00.001-07:00

Overnight in upper TN. Wonderful! Hotel!

Joshua's baseball game NY Mets PYO 2011

2011-06-06T18:29:00.000-07:00

2011-06-04T15:27:00.001-07:00

2011-06-04T15:26:00.001-07:00

Blake, tyler & joshua

2011-06-04T15:25:00.001-07:00

Took a wrong turn & discovered this mansion down the road. Cool, huh?

The End of a busy week and the '10-'11 school year

2011-06-03T05:29:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a busy week. Monday there was no school but Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday were packed enough to make up for it. Tuesday I went to the school to watch Tyler do his wax museum piece on Aldo Leopold. He did a really good job and I was pleased with his knowledge of facts, his eye contact, and with actually being able to hear him. Tuesday evening was taken up with Joshua's baseball game. Sky and the boys came and afterwards we had dinner at the Pine Tree Grill. Wednesday I volunteered for Field Day! I remember field day when i was a kid. It was so much fun. We used to dye our t-shirts and most of the activites we did were like obstacle courses: tug-of-war, running through tires, etc. Well, Hillcrests field day was Survivor Island and it was a load of fun. I worked the Code Punch station. Ironically, neither of my children came to my station while I was there. I only stayed for the morning session because of my poor feet. :( Thursday - whew - what a day! It was the 5th graders recognition day and I was there - ALL - day. We bagan at Four Seasons park were we brought back some old-school games that so few of the kids had ever heard of. Remember Red Rover? I loved that game! The kids did, too. Then half went to play Red Devil while the other half had free play (although I was hoping to get in some Red Light, Green Light). Then, we headed to Tundra Lodge for pizza and swimming. OK - not the grown ups. LOL! Anyway, after that we all went back to the school for another good old-fashioned game of Scavenger Hunt. And, finally the kids were recognized for their hard work, recieved their certificates, and had some cake. There was a slide show, too. It was neat seeing many of them from the time they were kindergarteners at Hillcrest to where they are now. I thought it was really nice that the rest of the school got to enjoy an all-school recess so that the teachers who had these kids at some point in their elementary careers could be present to watch them graduate to the middle school. Now, if that wasn't enough - I came home and made a card then decided we were going to walk the City Deck. So, I took my mom, Robbie, Tyler, Joshua, and Blake (Justin wanted to stay home and clean my kitchen - no joke) downtown. We ate at Erberts & Gerberts, walked along the City Deck, drove through Astor Park, swung by to pick up my GPS from a friend then headed home (McD's in hand for Justin). My mom had to pee really bad and we kept going of bumps and holes in the road due to construction. Joshua began singing Mohombi's 'It's gonna be a bumpy ride.' LOL! I turned it on and when it was over he suggested Kesha's 'Blow.' Haha! We dropped Blake off, had a chat session with Tami (JT's mom) and drove home to let my mama go potty. What a day! So, upon waking this am - the kids last (1/2) day of school - I thought, 'no need to get up and take a shower. I haven't anywhere to go.' Until Justin calls from the middle school (waaaaaay out there in Pulaski) to tell me I have to sign something very important. Sheesh! So, I spoke to the secretary and told her the only way I'd come sign anything is if they let Justin come out to meet me since I wasn't going in. :) Kids - you gotta love 'em!

2011-05-31T12:43:00.003-07:00

View from hole 3 @ Thornberry's 9

2011-05-31T12:43:00.001-07:00

Wax Museum - Tyler as Aldo Leopold @ Hillcrest Elementary, 5th grade

2011-05-31T10:09:00.000-07:00

He did a really good job. I was proud of his eye contact, rate and rhythm of speech, and that he could remember all of his facts. I hate that there is so much background noise, though.

card i made for Joshua's teacher.

2011-05-21T15:13:00.001-07:00

She is retiring this year. So sad but as i wrote in the card: retirement is not the end but a new beginning. :-)

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.8

o m g ! hahaha!

2011-05-21T10:31:00.001-07:00

Justin ran out of hair gel! LOL!

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.8

2011-05-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

In Regards to a boy who died suddenly at a track practice in Brillion

2011-05-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

You hear of Sooooo many young kids dieing at track practices, football, etc - and it's later determined they had a heart condition. One otherwise not detected during routine physical exams for sports. So, if that's the case what's it going to take for medical doctors and insurance companies to start allowing for and pushing for more thorough diagnostic tests to make absolutely sure kids are healthy? You know, at a certain age colonoscopies or other exams become recommended every ?how many years and covered by insurance - to maintain an individuals health, to look for signs of disease and curb it before it can progress to a life-threatening illness. So, why not allow whatever 'deep' screening is necessary for - all boys and girls upon entering 6th grade, and say - 10th grade, and possibly college IF they might be participating in any kind of rigorous sport, for example? I have a kid who's signed up for track next year in 6th gade. Currently, he's in running club gearing up for the Cellcom. I'm scared that he might have an unknown heart condition. This could be my kid - this could be me. It frightens me and I hope this family knows that they have my condolences and empathy - so much as I can only IMAGINE their heartbreak. It's sad and devastating and my thoughts go out to them and to the lives of every one that boy touched.

Old Pic of me and Ascher

2011-05-04T19:23:00.000-07:00

Typo's. Who? Me?

2011-05-04T15:24:00.001-07:00

This is my statement:

Ignore them.

Thank you very much. :)

I'm sick & TwiSteD, but tha's okay. :)

2011-05-04T11:43:00.001-07:00

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gibbet Am I the only person who thinks hanging (even of a corpse) is a good idea? - Don't answer that. :) I love wiki!

So, here's my respons on FB to the fact that the WH isn't going to release any pic's of - Ummm, what's his name???? Haha!

I don't understand how people think me and those who also want to see pic's of his dead body are conspiracy theorits. It's just that he caused so much pain and grief I want to be certain he's dead. I can't say I don't trust our governmen...t but, truthfully - the american people have been lied to throughout history because mama and daddy thought it best. Get my point? There is just a little bit of weariness on the issue, in my opinion. And, I just have to say this: why on earth should we respect his culture, his people, his religion - what the heck about my culture, my people, and my religion. I was (as an american) the one hurt and he is the one who did the hurtin'! Frankly, the sob should've been strung up for the world to see and left to hang while the birds feasted on his rotting corpse. Okay - that's how I really feel. :) Now, despite how his death has been or will continue to be treated by us - the americans - we can expect some type of retalliation. So what we did (or do) with his corpse - really doesn't matter. That's my opinion.

Of course, I like the idea of quartering his body, too. The parts could be dispersed to museums all over the nation/world, even.

At any rate - I hope to GOD that Obama doesn't make it another 4 years!

Prove it

2011-05-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

Buried at sea? First of all, how about 'dumped at sea.' Seems more appropriate. Second of all, how convenient. And, the excuse is it's islamic traditions that require a body to be buried within 24 hours. Personally, I'd say string the body up to rot - for all the world to see and deny the bastard any religious righs, whatsoever. But, I know that can cause much turmoil whether they were OBL supporters or not - because it's a religious thing - and we're not God, or whatever they believe in - yada, yada, yada. But, give the American people - and our allies proof. This is just too convenient and I'm calling it a conspiracy.

There - I've said it.

Help! I'm ShRinKing in all the wrong places!

2011-05-01T14:15:00.001-07:00

Apparently, I'm getting shorter. And, I just learned my feet have shrunk. 7 1/2's - not 8's. (Now, maybe my plantar fasciitis can begin to heal - if that was, indeed, the cause.)

I'm just shrinking in all the wrong places! No wonder I look fluffier!

D R A L I O N !

2011-04-30T07:53:00.000-07:00

Cirque was A W E S O M E! Thank you Resch for picking ME! :) I had the best time. I cried at the beginning I was so excited to be there. I've been watching it on Bravo since many, many (many!) years ago! It was just brilliant!!!!! I have always loved it when the acrobats roll down the cloth rope! And, the clowns! OMG! Hillarious!

(Shh - this may be tmi for everyone but - I am wearing a sleeveless shirt this am - and it's been -ahem- quite a while since I shaved. The kids are like - "Aww - gross, mom!" LOL! But it totally reminded me of one of their acts last night! Yeah - enough to make a hair piece! LOL!) Just wish I could've taken pic's!

I'm so glad I took Kimber with me - she'd never seen it before, on TV even (well, I've only seen it on TV 'til last night!). Then, we went to hang out at the bar and drank two beers!

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T07:06:00.000-07:00

The kids all got a new pair of swimming trunks and a beach towel for Easter this year.

2011-04-24T07:04:00.000-07:00

2011-04-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Jusin hid the eggs! They had fun hunting them. Thank goodness it's a nice sun shiny day that's going to get warm (which simply means we don't need a jacket). :)

In Memory of Ascher

2011-04-22T20:28:00.000-07:00

Ascher was my reading buddy. He was my cuddler. He loved me - this I know! He loved Cheetos! He begged a lot. Very noisy about it, too. Whenever I was sad - I'd hold him close and pet him - he'd purr and sit still and not wiggle and try to get away. I miss him so much!

He was attacked by the neighbors dogs. I don't know for sure if he was in their yard. I don't know how to feel about the situation. I always thought they were nice dogs. But, does that apply to cats? I mean, just like cats play with mice, right?

I was there as he faded. I got to tell him that I love him and that I was sorry. I petted him as he died.

It doesn't feel right to go forward.

Do not stand at my grave and weep...
I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awake in the mornings hush,
I am the swift upflinging rush...
of quiet birds in circling flight,
I am the soft star-shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry...
I am not there... I did not die...

:)

2011-04-19T06:43:00.001-07:00

Amber, Hazel, Onyx, Pearl, Sunshine, and Goldie are due to hatch on June 20th and will arrive the 21st! I'm so excited about my new babie chicks! Sadly, I'll be on vacay when they arrive so my mama and sis will have to pick 'em up, unpack 'em, and clean their pastey bottoms for me. :)

S N O W !

2011-04-19T05:16:00.000-07:00

Well, Joshua came downstairs excited about the multi-cultural feast and concert tonight. I told him I hope we still have what with all the snow and all (Gabe is predicted to deliver 6 - 9 inches this evening). He said, "It's only the second most specialist day of the year!" Awww. And, Tyler already has a button up w/ tie laid out and he bullied Sky into buying him dress shoes and getting a haircut last night. Snow, snow - go away! (For my kids' sake!)

ChChChChickens!

2011-04-17T19:09:00.000-07:00

Well, tomorrow I'm going to call and most likely order 5 chickens. I picked the breeds I want out of a catalog and they're all different. Anyone who knows me know that I have a 'thing' about names. I love naming things! My kids, my pets: Charleston, Roxy, Ascher, Pebbles (kids named this one), Bella Ryn. Well, I have two chickens already: Ginger and Emma. If I am able to order the ones I want I will soon add Hazel, Pearl, Amber, Onyx, and Goldie (or Sunshine, can't decide) to my hen house. :) Cute, huh? They are what are called Buff Rocks, Partridge Rocks, White Rocks, Black Australorps, and Rhode Island Red. Biggest issue is will I be able to, and how to, eventually move them in with Ginger and Emma. I suppose I'll have to buy a baby swimming pool and a heat lamp until they're large enough to take outdoors. But, I hope it will work out. I'll them make littel plaques with all their names. :) Stay tuned!

Nice quote - My dumb moment, too. :)

2011-04-15T17:59:00.001-07:00

"We can throw stones, complain about them, stumble on them, climb over them, or build with them." ~ William Arthur Ward
Nice quote from PTO Today I thought I'd share. It took me a minute to realize we were talkin' 'bout stones, not people! Haha!

2011-04-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

Well, tonight I became the Vice Chairperson for our PTO. I'm really looking forward to it although I know there will be times I complain and get frustrated. It's like having kids, you know - you really, really want them but they can irritate you to tears. Give and Take. That's all. But, for the most part, I'm really happy to be participating!

The most fun, however, was hanging out with the other mom's at Legends afterwards! I had the best time! I can't believe we were there until 10:15 - just chatting. It was fun. But, now - I'm so tired I'm dizzy. Although - I did come home to a quite house (because my boys are all in bed!:)so - do I go to bed or stay up reading enjoying the peace and quite?????

Hmmm.

2011-04-10T12:31:00.000-07:00

Justin & Joshua eating watermelon, Justin getting molds for braces, and Tennis on the Bay Rally Day 2011. Justin said he's really going to like tennis. We'll see. :)

I now have a Crick in my Neck!

2011-04-10T05:15:00.000-07:00

From sleeping on the bed in the spare room. Why was I in the spare room? Because I'm a chchchchicken! Thunderstorms - thunder and lightening. I'm terrified! Tyler and Joshua were down there, too - on the pull out. But, don't get me wrong - I love daytime T-storms. :)

More Work Coming In. . .

2011-04-07T13:19:00.000-07:00

I'm now going to be doing HEDIS reviews instead of CI. Training is the week after next. Finally, I can look forward to some steady hours!