get barenaked

Have I talked to you yet about Barenaked Ladies?

The band, not the dancing girls.

Over the years I seem to have become more and more of a fan of this crazy, quirky Canadian band. I won't lie and say I've loved them from the beginning of time (The Yellow Tape), but after falling in love with "The Old Apartment" I have been chasing them around ever since. The first thing I did when I got my IPod was to upload about 300 of their songs into my playlist. I love their range, their lyrics are smart and funny, and they never fail to entertain me. (I mean come on ~ Chickity China the Chinese Chicken is just FUN to say!)

If you look around this site you'll notice that all of the headings are BNL song titles (life in a nutshell, Leave, Testing, 1, 2, 3, Everything Old is New Again and It's All Been Done). The quote at the bottom of the page is from our family's favorite car tune "Million Dollars." (Yes, my kids know the words to more BNL songs than is probably necessary!)

My first BNL concert was a giant leap outside of my comfort zone. DH was away for military duty, but his new friends had an extra ticket to the show. I hadn't even met them yet. I remember after agreeing to meet them out for dinner before the show that I had to email one of the girls to find out what she looked like so that I knew who to look for at the restaurant. This was crazy to DH since I was not usually one for talking to people I don't know or getting outside of my little circle and making new friends. Also, did I mention that I was seven months pregnant at the time? Yep, this pretty much cemented that fact that I was going to be a dedicated fan for life.

I will say this, it is totally worthwhile to do what you can to make it to a BNL live show. No album will ever do justice to the experience you get when seeing these wacky guys live. They laugh, make jokes, talk a lot, make up raps, break into random miscellaneous medleys of other artists' music, they mess up, they choreograph zany routines, they play a lot of different instruments, they sing their hearts out. They don't take themselves too seriously, but their talent shines for itself. I have never felt like I didn't get my money's worth at one of their shows.

One year they were doing a holiday show and the tickets were giveaways only from our local radio station. It was driving me crazy that they weren't for sale! But my faithful friend won tickets for us, and then I won an Ovation guitar signed by the band at the show! I have since started calling her my good luck charm, because at the next show we met some of the band members (where I made a complete idiot of myself asking them to sign my ticket *DOH!*) and at the most recent concert we caught a drumstick. Next week we are seeing them again - wonder what I will come home with this time?

I LOVE the Ladies!!!



My boy Ed:

open letters

AN OPEN LETTER TO:

Britney and Paris:
We get it. Now STOP.

Lindsay Lohan's Mom, Dina:
It's called ANONYMOUS for a reason.
Stop blabbing your daughter's business all over the tabloids for money.
And PS... You're not as young or famous as you'd like to think.

Tums:
Thanks.
I haven't been feeling so well lately.
I think I'm becoming a bit lactose intolerant?

Steven:
You make the work day less monotonous.
The week you were gone everyone thought I was in a coma.
Don't leave me again!

94.7FM:
STOP playing Dominic the Donkey.
That song is funny exactly ONE time per year.
Nothing more than that.

myspace:
I tried to hate you, but I just can't.
*MWAH*

My Readers:
Is anybody out there?
Drop me a comment.
It encourages me to write more.

Peace out.

christmas time is here

I LOVE the Christmas season.
I am NOT a fan of winter. I don't like ice, snow, cold, stuffy noses and flus, slush, and all that winter inconvenience.
But Christmas time, I love.

I was discussing this with Steven, and we decided that we most enjoyed the fictitious holiday season on Main St USA where the snow is falling, the store fronts are all decked out for the holiday, people are walking along with packages waving hello to each other, carolers are singing in the town green - you know - postcard Christmas.

I love all that stuff, but I also love the hustle and bustle, the music (I am already listening to it regularly!), everyone scrambling to find the perfect gift, putting together my Christmas cards, decorating my tree, making Christmas cookies, watching all the Christmas specials on tv...

This year is a little different because of where we are living. I won't be going all out like I always do, throwing a splash of Christmas into every nook and cranny. But I still have Christmas spirit. I still love this holiday. I have some great gifts for my family that I think they are going to love. I can't wait to see them open them up. I am working on adding my collection of Christmas tunes onto my IPod so we can sing along as we travel over the river and through the woods to grandmother's house.....

The holidays are here, and I am loving every second of it!!

what a bear

The medicine I am taking right now makes me depressed, mean, tired, and cranky.

Either cheer me up, or get out of the way.

Consider yourself warned.

the end.

thanksgiving wrap up

I had a GREAT holiday.
I hope yours was the same.

I spent time with my family, saw some of them that I haven't spent time with in awhile, which was very nice. (My cousin slightly objected to being called "a myth," but it had seriously been awhile!)

We shopped until we literally dropped in true Black Friday fashion. We didn't have anything that we NEEDED, so the pressure was off. We could just relax and enjoy the crazies out there. (At a decent hour - NOT 5am!)

I didn't cook this year, so I am not enjoying the usual leftovers. I kinda miss them.... I may have to make a turkey dinner one of these weekends just for kicks.

I was sad when everybody left.... Why are we all so far away???
You know it is a good visit when you miss them before they are even gone.

Happy Holidays, Everyone!!!!

under lock and key

This may come as a shock to those who actually know me IRL (since I am so blunt), but I think I tend to be quite guarded. I am private by nature. I don't like people knowing my personal private business. In looking back at my blog, I notice that I tend not to put the truly personal stuff out there. When there are big gaps between posts, it is usually because I am going through something and I just don't want to talk about it. I usually don't bring my problems to other people, I sit back and wait for and hope that somebody will notice. Usually they don't, because I am quite sure that everyone has their own stuff to deal with and can't be bothered worrying about mine! Other times I hold back my thoughts and opinions too long and then it all comes out like verbal diarrhea, which can be more hurtful than it is productive. As a result people don't always know the real me. I guard myself too closely. I need to open up more.

A while back I challenged my friend to start a blog. She responded by using her myspace blog. Touche. I can't respond to it because I don't have a myspace page. Because that would involve having my privacy invaded. Oh no! Well, I think I'll venture over that and see what I can do. But I still think she should have to start a blogger blog in return!

are you ready for some football?

I'm not sure when I became such a football nut, but it seems this fall my life has been overly consumed with the game. My weekend plans have pretty much been driven by the football schedule. This weekend was an exceptional weekend of games, both Saturday and Sunday. Sadly, I gave up my ticket to what was supposed to be a washout, and it turned out to be the game of the season. I was watching on tv, but knowing I was supposed to be there rather stung a little! I've tried to be adult about it, but well... you know. Inside I'm still pouting. Sunday's games more than made up for it. And even though my team disasterously blew an enormous lead only to lose in the last two minutes of the game, it was still a great day for the sport. Anyone who caught that Giants / Bears game, knows what I'm talking about!

riddle me this

Do you enjoy your free time?

Then DON'T play.

www.weffriddles.com


(Don't say I didn't warn you.)

candlelight

Just when I am feeling sorry for myself.... and I mean REALLY feeling sorry for myself, really IN it, drowning myself in it, swirling around in the gloom and getting lost in the darkness.....

I am greeted by my light.

I wander into the kitchen to find dinner and candlelight and wine.
Cause he knew that it was what I needed.
And we talked and laughed and enjoyed each other's company.

Cause that's what we do.

He is my soft place to land.
My strength and my hope.

My everything.

mama needs a brand new bag

I have been informed (whatEVAH, B!!) that the bag that I've been carrying around was made for an old lady. Actually I think what she said was "When did you turn old enough to carry around a bag like THAT???"

Hmph.

So, apparently I am now in the market for a new bag. I need something that functions like a briefcase, mostly to carry back and forth to work. I've got my planner, some papers, a book, etc in there. A little of this a little of that, ya know?

The bag has to be large enough to hold my stuff, but I don't want to be lugging around a suitcase. Oh, and I guess it wouldn't hurt if it was stylish.

I came across these.... what do you think? Please let me know if you have any suggestions I haven't thought of and where I can find them!

ticketmaster has all my money

It's true. What I spent on tickets today should have been against the law. I have no idea what I was thinking. I keep waiting for the credit card company to call and ask me if my card has been stolen. I think I have spent my entire entertainment budget for the next year. I had to write B a "Dear John" letter and let her know that we can no longer be friends because we spend too much money together. I'm thinking we need to get together and do free stuff from now on. How about a scrapbook day? We keep talking about it and never do it. (Cause I procrastinate like it's my job!)

But what else can I do? *sigh*
BNL stalking season has officially begun.

closure

Go into your archive.
Find your 23rd post (or closest to).
Find the fifth sentence (or closest to).
Post the text of the sentence in your blog along with these instructions.


"I think that some closure here would have done me some good, but unfortunately it is out of my control."


Well, taken out of context, this sentence pretty nicely sums up my whole year. I have had so much happen that has been completely out of my control. Some good, some bad. Some things I have had to struggle to let go of, but it turned out for the best in the end. Some things will never be the same.

Closure is a funny thing. How do you even know when you've had it? I think it is more obvious when you don't. Not being able to say good bye is a terrible thing. But does it really make it any easier when you do?

Sometimes you have to let go of someone and they don't even know you've done it. Do you define your closure as when you are satisfied with the decision, or when they know you are? For me, being content with my choices in life has become enough. Life is to short for resentment or regrets.

The quote above is from a post I wrote in memoriam of a cherished friend. He was such a vital spirit, and had more impact on my life than most realize. We always kept in touch over the years, and randomly finding notes and emails and little objects that he gave me have been both a joy and a sorrow for me since he has been gone. My heart ached then and it still does now. He was one of many young lives taken too soon this year. For him I had to grieve alone, and to some extent I still am and always will. I don't think I will ever have closure about this.
His mother has since told me that I could always make him laugh when noone else could. Maybe that will have to be enough.

the day before tomorrow

My young one has trouble with yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Well actually, she knows that today is today, but she can't remember when tomorrow and yesterday are. There is no way to explain this without giggling. I'm pretty sure I lose her around the time I get to the part where "It is always today, and tomorrow is always the day after today and yesterday has always already happened because it was the day before today....."

I think this is why she just calls them today, the day after this, and the day before this.

I came across this today, and it reminded me of her.


The Day Before Tomorrow

The day before tomorrow
Is a very special day
And I feel that I should live it
In a happy kind of way...
Tomorrow's so mysterious
That I really can't foresee
The things that might be happening
And the way that life might be
But the Day Before Tomorrow
That's quite a different thing...
Those hours are so much closer
I can guess what they might bring...
I'd rather be a sparrow
Or a lily of the field
And just wait til God's will for me
Is finally revealed...
I'll put aside the griefs and cares --
The trouble I won't borrow
And just be glad I'm living in
The Day Before Tomorrow!

~~Jean Kyler McManus

show me the funny

I surround myself with laughter.
I envelop myself in it like a warm, comfortable blanket.
Anyone who has met me in person knows that I am laughing most of the time. Sometimes it is a nervous habit, sometimes it is out of happiness, sometimes it is an inappropriate reaction to something sad, and sometimes something is just downright hilarious. But the point is, laughter flows out of my mouth probably more often than words.

As an end to this means, I like to be around people who are funny. I just don't get serious people. And quite frankly, they don't get me. I even find humor in how serious people do NOT find me funny. In fact, I'm pretty sure that much of my childhood was spent trying to get a giggle out of my father. (FYI - now that he is not responsible for my shenanigans, he finds me much more humorous. Even cracks a joke or two of his own now and then!)

When I keep to myself at work, people start seeking me out. "What's wrong? Are you ok? I haven't heard you laugh all day."
Someone actually said this to me today. I was just tired. Not really joking around much. But trust me - the ridiculousness of things that go on around me there are usually enough to propel my laughter throughout the day!

I think that laughter runs in my family. If you attend a family funeral, don't be surprised at the sounds of laughter pouring forth from the building. Yes, we are in fact working through our pain. But we do it by remembering how the person made us feel good. How they made us LAUGH.

Sometimes at the end of a good day my sides and cheeks will hurt from all the laughing. These days are my favorites. Lately I have been having these days a lot. Days surrounded by the people I love and the people who love me. Part of this, a big part of this, is because they make me laugh.
I surround myself with laughter.

still broke. still smiling.

While sharing stories with my family we learned that Great Grandpa used to sign all of his letters "Still Broke. Still Smiling."

Ok, I COMPLETELY get it.
This is exactly how I feel about my life.

What an amazing philosophy! The sentiment expressed with those simple words are just the way we should all strive to live life. It doesn't matter what you have, what matters is what you do with it.

DH and I started our adult lives out together a little younger than most, a little faster than most, a little more intense than most. We have had our share of fun and made our share of mistakes.

But here we are, settling down, getting things together, finding our joy.
We have learned and grown together. We know what we want. We have similar goals and vision. I am excited to see what is around the corner for us. I feel like we are on the cusp of something great.

A lot of that has been in finding contentment in what we have. Thankfulness for what we have instead of envy of what we don't. I feel satisfied, yet I still feel the need to improve.

Now and then I have to stop and remind myself that we live this life for a reason. I hope I can learn from it.

And for now anyways, I'm....
"Still broke. Still smiling."

a small confession

Alright, I'm just going to put it out there.




Ok, fine.

There it is.

I went to the store to purchase the new Barenaked Ladies Are Me, because the concert is coming up soon (third row, baby!!). But they were out of stock. As I perused the new releases I came upon it. I'm not sure what strange power even possessed me to pick it up, since I'm not much of a CD purchaser these days, but for some reason I was compelled to leave the store with this - much to DH's dismay. After we got home he urged me to return it, and looked at me with disgust as I tore off the cellophane wrap.
He knew at this point that there was no turning back.
And he was right.

This little gem has been living in my car cd player ever since. I've been listening to it on repeat every day. And I LOVE it! It's got some upbeat dance tunes, slow songs, a little rap, it runs the spectrum. The combo of Timbaland and Timberlake is really working for me. I'm sure that the people who passed by me on the highway this morning thought I had completely lost my mind as they saw me bopping along singing at the top of my lungs.

I'm sure the novelty will wear off soon, but it hasn't yet.

internal struggle

I am struggling with something. I am in a situation where I have to decide whether to sit back and wait to be offered the opportunity to make change, or to speak my mind now. In the meantime it requires me to keep quiet until I am given that opportunity. If I do something now I will feel better about myself for standing up for myself and speaking my mind where it is appropriate. However this may jeopardize my opportunity to be put in the position to affect a greater change for a larger group in the long run. I guess I have to choose to make the choice that brings the greatest good to the greatest number of people, right? But can I respect myself in the meantime? I'm not sure. Plus, I'm not always the best at keeping my mouth shut.

countdown

10 Things I Wanna Do Before I Die

10. Buy or build a house.
9. Skydive.
8. Travel to Europe.
7. Be caught up on my scrapbooks.
6. Lose weight.
5. Be successful and happy at work.
4. Finish my college degree.
3. Feel financially secure.
2. Learn sign language fluently.
1. Live the life I know I am capable of.


9 Places I Last Spent Money

9. Lunch – mozzarella sticks (I felt so guilty eating them I couldn’t finish!)
8. Fundraiser for the kids’ school.
7. Coffee – Starbucks grande java chip frappuccino no whip – dee-lish!!
6. Air freshener for the car from Yankee Candle
5. Lots of cute clothes for my DD from Limited Too – her favorite!
4. Movie Ticket (and popcorn!) – Little Miss Sunshine. I haven’t laughed that hard in ages!
3. Lunch with the girls at Hops.
2. Tank of gas.
1. Trip to the bookstore: Book – My Sister’s Keeper, and CD – JT. LOVE the CD, and I’ll let you know about the book. (I read at a snail’s pace, so it could be a while.)


8 Sounds I Routinely Hear Around My House

8. Phone ringing – which I generally ignore.
7. Kids laughing, crying, fighting, hugging.
6. Music. We like it loud, and we dance like nobody’s watching.
5. Hissing – the cats are still working it out.
4. Traffic – we’re too close to the road. Again.
3. The dull whirr of my machines. I’m an electronics junky.
2. Snoring – we all do it, cats included.
1. My clock that sings a new tune for each hour of the day. (Fortunately it knows enough to quiet down for the evening.)


7 Real Restaurants Where I Last Ate Out

(What constitutes a REAL restaurant? Cause I had lunch at McDonalds for DD’s birthday – HER choice, of course! I’m going to have to include chain restaurants to make this work…)

7. Vernon Pizza
6. Hops
5. IHOP
4. TGI Friday’s
3. Macaroni Grill
2. Outback
1. Angellino’s


6 Things I've Recently Scratched Off My To-Do List

6. Made dentist appts for me and the kids.
5. Cleaned my desk.
4. Put away the laundry.
3. Loaded all my pictures on the computer.
2. Had a “Girls Day,” - and it was fabulous!
1. Got new glasses.


5 People I Don't Know but would Like to Hang Out With

5. Rosie
4. Jimmy Fallon
3. Aunt June
2. Cowtown Stacy
1. Oprah


4 Songs That Make Me Happy

4. Star Spangled Banner
3. Oh What a Night
2. SexyBack
1. The Old Apartment


3 Things I Hate To Do

3. Clean
2. Run
1. Shovel Snow


2 Things I'm Really Good At

2. Multi-tasking
1. Making People Laugh


1 Bad Habit

1. Procrastination

big day

Today is a big day for my friend! All my love and best wishes to you.
I'm thinking of ya!!!
***MUAH***

the deep, deep, dark, dark, deepdark pit

I think it's time for me to clean out my purse. The thing won't hardly even zip today. A quick peek inside reveals the problem -- it is chock-full of everything I could ever need and more for any situation that could ever come up ever in my life. Or at least, that's what it looks like with all the junk in there!

First of all, I have three checkbooks. At this point I stop to wonder if I even have three checking accounts? And when was the last time I wrote a check? Cause I am all about debit cards and online bill payments. So, note to self, balance my accounts and consolidate checkbooks tonight.

Loose paper - I swear, in this so-called "paperless society" why is paper still overwhelming me at every turn? Sifting through I see that I went to the movies (ticket stub), I have receipts from Chinese food, camping, pizza, back to school shopping, and my new eyeglasses. I have medical and daycare receipts that need to be submitted. I have a pile of business cards and phone numbers and email addresses scribbled on scraps of paper that need phone calls (it seems it's time for little kitty's distemper booster too). I have a book of stamps. I have a grocery list (mostly produce - bananas, apples, grapes, film, cream cheese, hummus, crackers, onion, squash, trash bags). Wow, I should go through this paper more often. Clearly I am putting some things off!

Lip gloss - it was so ridiculous I had to count them up. Six. SIX. S.I.X!! That is just nuts! At last check, I only had two lips, so I'm not quite sure that I need six separate lip glosses. But if you're ever chappy or pale.... come see me. I've got you covered.

Fruit flavored Mentos. Those are just yummy! I always have mints stashed everywhere, but lately I've been substituting Mentos. They are equally satisfying, but don't last as long since I usually have couple at a time.

My cell phone and bluetooth headset - the phone has been dead for the better part of a week. I generally leave the charger at work since that is where I spend most of my time. But I brought it with me when I went on vacation, and now I've screwed the whole system up. I can't find that one, so I brought the one from home in to work, etc etc. Long story short, I haven't been very accessible by cell phone this week. (Which if you remember what I said before about phones, is just fine by me!)

My iPod is in there too. It is in it's adorable pink case that DDs gave me for my birthday. It's filled with lots of retro eighties and nineties that I love. TONS of Barenaked Ladies songs. (They go on tour again soon - YIPPEE!!!) Most of the stuff in the current Billboard top forty is there too. My music tastes are varied and ecclectic. I don't really stick to one genre.

What ISN'T in there is my driver's license. I haven't been able to find it for weeks. I don't even really remember the last time I had it. Probably when I went to see those really funny bands for Lisa's birthday! This is the longest I've ever lost it before. I'm actually at the point where I'm thinking of going to the DMV for a new one.

Well, now that I have sorted through and reorganized my purse, I'm off to use my loose change to go buy a soda (or pop for those of you south of the Mason-Dixon, or west of the Mississippi...).

lazy daze

It's Saturday, and I feel like I should have a hundred things to do, but I don't. It's weird. It is 11:30 am, and I have already been to work and back again, dropped off a friend at home, cleaned up, and now I'm lounging around online. DH had to drop his brother off at school, and I was telling him to hurry up and go so we could get things done, but there's no things to get done. Well, there's always ongoing projects that could use some attention, but nothing that needs to be completed today. I think I forgot how to just relax!

So, I just poured myself a cup of coffee, and I'm going to spend some time chit-chatting with my little one. We're just going to have a lazy Saturday afternoon!
Ahhhh..... nice!

remarkable

Here's the thing. I'm nothing special. I'm no different than anybody else. But I have realized one thing. I am happy. That's right, I'm HAPPY. There. I said it. And I'm not sorry either. Actually, I'm proud.

Every day I wake up (late) and drag my sorry bones out of bed. I slap on some makeup, toussle my hair, glance at the kids to make sure they are decent, and head out the door. I spend the next nine hours or so at a menial job that I am not that excited about. After that I run between practices, recitals, classes and dinner. It's hectic and chaotic.

It's also FUN. I love my life. I can't wait for weekends when I can lounge around in my pj's with the kids or stay up late with DH watching lame movies and drinking too much wine. We just went on a camping trip with our friends that was the best vacation we could have ever asked for.

My life is simple.
And I love it.

I surround myself with the people who mean the most. I don't bother with the ones who don't. Some people don't understand that. But I have to make the most of the short time that I've got. I have learned the hard way that part of that is to choose wisely how and with whom I spend my time.

I am nothing special. I don't really stand out in any way. But I have created a life for myself that I am happy with and that I love. I have an amazing husband who loves me for who I am, no matter how difficult that may be. I have children who are happy and independent and sassy and talented. They are my pride and joy.

I don't have a large home or lots of money in the bank. I have learned that doing things for show isn't how to achieve happiness.

I have faith. I don't parade it around or show it off with splashy displays. But it is what gets me through each day.

I appreciate the little things. I am happy and thankful each day for all that I have. I have learned to let go of all that I don't.

I am content.

I am insignificantly remarkable.

oh!

Oh, so THAT'S where I left my blog!
I'd lost it for a minute there.
*grin*

i'm a fourteen year old girl writing about my cat

Or am i just under 30 and sociable?

I'll leave it up to you to decide what they are trying to say......

Portrait of a Blogger

=============================================

So I guess I better start writing about my cat if I want to maintain the status quo, huh?

We've had our four year old male cat, Tigger, since he was a kitten. I somehow finally succumbed to the ridiculous notion that he needed a friend. Well, here's the thing - cats do NOT need a friend. It's just not a good idea.

We went back to the pound where we got our first cat, and they had a cute little short-haired tabby female who needed a home. Sarafina got along well with the whole family, and we thought it would be a good fit. Tigger did NOT agree. He spent the whole first week she was around growling and hissing. This was way outside of his normal routine of sleeping, shedding, and purring. He wanted nothing to do with her, or us either for that matter. He was just disgruntled by the whole situation. And mostly the new kitty just stared at him like "What's your problem, dude?" She, like us, was naive enough to think that there would be peace and love and that she would have a new best friend.

After about a week of him glaring and hissing at her all the time, Sarafina decided she had finally had enough and was going to retaliate. After being hissed at yet again, I'm pretty sure she tripled in size, stood erect on her hind legs, and proceeded to tell Tigger exactly who was boss. He, like us, stared at her in disbelief. What the heck just happened? So she started taking to chasing him down, hissing, and attacking him anytime he breathed in her direction.

By week three just as I was starting to think we had made a huge mistake, the tides turned again. We were sitting there with Tigger all casual when Sarafina struts in, gives Tigger her best "come hither" look, and starts howling and rolling around on the floor. Swell. He just looks at her like "What the heck do you want me to do with all that???" (He was neutered quite young and spent most of his life indoors.) He was rather confused. I was too - trying to figure out exactly what I've done while trying to corral the amorous little heathen into another room. Where she will be staying until she goes to the vet on Monday.

Who knows what changes next week will bring!

(If you need me, I'll be at the Hyatt -- I can't take it anymore!!!)

:)

what? i scrapbooked?

Hey! I forgot to mention -- I scrapbooked!! It took getting back together with my old group to make it happen. I always tell people that it is always easier to scrap at someone else's house, and it's true. I didn't get tons done, but I feel good having attempted it.

There is a scrapbook weekend coming up in late fall, and I really hope that I can get a few friends to join me and go to it. What a time that will be!! Nothing like a good ol' fashioned slumber party to get the creative juices flowing! Anyone want to come?
:)

what's new?

Ok - quick update on things. I clearly have been back to work, which has greatly affected how much I am posting here. Work is fine. I wouldn't say that I love it, but I wouldn't say that I hate it either which I guess is a good thing. It was alluded to that I may have an opportunity for growth in the near future which is rather exciting. We'll see where it takes me. It's hard to tell just yet.

Other than that, I have been caught in a whirlwind of summer activities. We spent the day at the beach with the kids frying ourselves crispy right before my anniversary weekend getaway. We spent our weekend peeling - cause nothing says romance like skin flaking off your body at an alarming rate and feeling like a snake shedding its skin. Blech!! It was a great weekend though. Who knew you could feel so rejuvenated after just three days away? It was amazing!

can

Just awe inspiring.......







Visit them here: Team Hoyt

happy anniversary

What greater thing is there for two human souls than to feel that they are joined... to strengthen each other... to be one with each other in silent unspeakable memories.
~George Eliot


I love you for all the quiet moments that we share.
I love you for the tender way that you care for me.
I love that you push me to be a better person.
I love the strong father you have become.
I love that you are headstrong and smart.
I love the way your eyes light up when you are happy.
I love that you have goals and achieve them.
I love the way that you nuture our family.
I love that you bring out my best qualities.
I love the respect that we have for each other.
I love that you have a sense of pride in what you do.

I am so fortunate that God put you in my life.
You make the impossible possible.
You are my strength and my joy.
You are the love of my life.

Thank you for all that you do and all that you are.

Happy Anniversary, My Love.

Top 10 Reasons Why Bridget Should Have a Blog

Top Ten Reasons Why Bridget Should Have a Blog:

10. She's a total crack up.

9. Her stories are too good not to share with the world.

8. She can start with the one where she made out with some guy in a bar bathroom with a drag queen watching!

7. She knows a lot about news, music, and reality tv. She would be educational!

6. She would probably keep her blog updated. (More than I do, I'm sure.)

5. She has prison pen pals. There has to be a story in that somewhere!

4. She is creative. More than most actually.

3. Whenever I hang out with her I win stuff. (Ok, that one has nothing to do with blogging, but I think it's cool!)

2. She makes up stories that people might actually believe.

And the number 1 Reason why Bridget should have a blog:

1. I'd be a loyal reader and you would too!!

Go ahead Bridget, you know you wanna!

GAUCHOS????

Dear Stacy--

Seriously?

GAUCHOS????

I have been diametrically opposed to the very concept of these retro-nasty style of pants since they began inching their way into the fashion spotlight a couple years ago. I have generally detested every style of capris and crops they've been throwing at us lately. I struggle to find pants these days that go all the way down to my ankles. I mean, really. Is a full-length pant really too much to ask?? (Clearly it is, because I have been struggling to find them the past two years...)

But then, you had to go and blow it by touting not only the comfort of these pants, but the fact that they could be flattering too. Alright, fine. If you're saying they are so great, I guess I could try them. (But not Crocs. No way! Those things are Fugly!! I don't care how comfortable they are, or what hot country star wears them!!)

So, ok. I tried them on. And my fashion conscious DD said "Hey Mom! You look cool!" And I looked in the mirror and thought, "Maybe I do look a little cool." And maybe not entirely hideous. So I bought 'em. (Who am I kidding? I bought three pair!)

And now I've been wearing them all day, and they are the most. comfortable. pants. EVER. I don't want to take them off. I may even love them a little. (Ok, a lot!)

So, thanks a lot Stacy! I'm cool, comfortable, and maybe even a little bit stylish!

And it's all your fault........

Love,
A Fellow Gaucho Convert

discretion

DD has found a new way of expressing herself that largely includes over-sharing. She is blunt. Tell-you-like-it-is, hurt-your-feelings blunt. I think her discretion button is broken.

This wasn't as much of a problem until I began noticing that several of the statements coming out of her mouth began with "My mom said...."

Ok fine, you want to tell someone that they talk too much, must we say it like "My mom said that you talk too much." Aargh!!! And for some reason she is finding it really important to tell the world our personal private business. "Mom gained five pounds" or "Mom's hair was sticking out straight this morning" or "Mom didn't get dressed until after lunchtime yesterday....." It's like being on display twenty four hours a day with this kid. You can't do or say anything you don't want the world to know.

But I've gotta go for now. Cause FSM knows that she'll be telling everyone she knows tomorrow that "Mom was on the computer for hours last night!"

virtual reality

Remember books?

I vaguely do. Because reading is something that I used to enjoy as well.

What the heck has changed?

Today I think I am going to attribute it to the invention of the internet.

(So thanks Al Gore.)

Cause I used to have free time and do stuff.

Now I live in a virtual reality.

You too?

i need to scrapbook.

I have not scrapbooked in WAY. TOO. LONG.

Seriously.

Scrapbooking gives me a lot of things, the least of which is a creative outlet. I NEED to feed my own creativity.

I know that I will never accomplish all the things in a day that I set out to do, but I have really got to pick up the pace a bit. I feel like we are always racing around just trying to keep up with ourselves, and when we finally get a moment to stop and breathe we just crash to the floor as if time has completely stopped. This doesn't help at all. We just swing from one end of the pendulum to the other.

The thing is, I'm pretty sure that I need to find a way to work scrapbooking back into my life. I think I have pushed it to the side for a variety of reasons, the least of which being my complete lack of the ability to finish anything that I start. I have lots of projects just waiting for my attention. I know I could make a ton of excuses as to why I haven't gotten around to them, but I won't.

I just need to get back on the horse.

SOON.

dance with my father

Back when I was a child
Before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high
And dance with my mother and me and then
Spin me around till I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure I was loved

If I could get another chance
Another walk, another dance with him
I'd play a song that would never ever end
How I'd love love love to dance with my father again

When I and my mother would disagree
To get my way I would run from her to him
He'd make me laugh just to comfort me
Then finally make me do just what my momma said
Later that night, when I was asleep
He left a dollar under my sheet
Never dreamed that he would be gone from me

If I could steal
One final glance
One final step
One final dance with him
I'd play a song that would never ever end
Cause I'd love love love to dance with my father again

Sometimes I'd listen outside her door
I'd hear how my mother cried for him
I'd pray for her even more than me
I'd pray for her even more than me

I know I'm praying for much too much
But could you send back the only man she loved
I know you don't do it usually
But dear Lord she' s dying to dance with my father again
Every night I fall asleep
And this is all I ever dream

birthday magic

So my birthday weekend was a blast. I started out on Friday night with my two best friends meeting me at my house for a little birthday toast. BFF's DH couldn't make it, but he totally delivered on the ingredients for yummy kool-aid shots. And BFF mixed 'em up like a pro. Dee-lish!! After that we met up with a few more friends for a nice dinner, and then we headed out. We had a great time - danced, laughed, and partied just like we used to. Ok, well not REALLY like we used to.... we're not nearly as young, desperate, or naked as the majority of people I saw out that night.... but that's completely fine with me. *grin*

The next day I went out and treated myself to a FRAPPUCCINO, which was incredibly delicious and incredibly overdue. I hadn't stepped foot into my beloved Starbucks the entire time I have been back home, so it was like reuniting with an old friend. I relished every sip. (And went back for another one this week too!) I had a mani/pedi while sipping away on my java chip frap.... DIVINE!

When I arrived home my family had gone all out decorating the house inside and out. So cute! They took me out for the most delicious and entertaining dinner we have had in a long time. It was perfect. And it was so nice to take the time to relax and enjoy each other's company.

Sunday we went to a picnic at a friend's house, where the food is always good, and the friends are always fun. It was a great time. Nobody wanted to leave.... They pretty much had to kick us out at the end of the night (or was it morning by then?).

Monday we watched the cute little parade that goes right by the front door of our house, and followed it up to the cemetary to watch the Memorial Day ceremony. It was important to us to take the time to remember those who give their time, service, lives for our freedom.

We spent the rest of the day picnicking with my family. It was quite a turnout, like I haven't seen in years. My sister brought me a beautiful necklace that she made - I was impressed! We were talking and laughing and having a relaxing day out in the sun. So nice!

DH and my sweetie kids surprised me with an iPod for my birthday. I couldn't wait to play with it. Within an hour of opening it I had already loaded it with 400 songs. (And only about half of those are BNL!!) They gave me the cutest pink case for it, and I have had it playing pretty much ever since. What a great gift! DH has really upped the gift giving this year - a spa day, the iPod.... Usually we are not much on the bigger stuff, it's not always in the budget, but I guess I've been good this year. I'll have to be sure to come up with some good ideas for him!

It was an amazing weekend - everything I could have asked for. Friends, family, good times. I am truly blessed with all that I have. Thank you to all who were able to share in the fun with me!

laughter

I think my favorite sound in the whole world is the sound of laughter. True, genuine, heartfelt, from the gut, hearty laughter. I just had a laugh like this with my kids. We laughed and laughed and laughed. It was great! The best part is that they have an amazing sense of humor. They know what's funny. They make jokes. This is definitely a great trait to have, and I am glad that they have it.

go me

Go Me...

It's my Birthday...

We're gonna PARTY Like

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Watch out!! Cause we are about to get our PAR-TAY on!!

We're letting our hair down, getting all dolled up, and painting the town RED!
And all my favorite people are going out of their way to be there.
Thanks guys! Love ya! *MWAH*

We're all excited. We've been sending emails back and forth like we used to pass notes in school. Heehee! (What are you gonna wear? Will so and so be there? Think we'll see any cute boys?)


*****************************
You're only as strong as....

The tables you dance on

The drinks you mix

And the friends you roll with.

i heart tivo

Have I told you about Tivo?

Oh man. Tivo is my new best friend. In a "sneak-out-of-class-and-go-smoke-cigarettes-in-the-courtyard" kind of way. I mean, it's lots of fun but probably not that good for you. I'm not sure exactly what DH was thinking when he brought this little man into our home. Surely he could have predicted that I would soon be having a love affair with our new houseguest. I mean, all the signs were there. My addictive personality, my willingness to watch whatever reality crap they put on the airwaves..... So really, it was only a matter of time.

The problem with Tivo is that not only are we watching the shows we always watched, we are now watching tons of shows we would never have watched before. Hey- just Tivo it! We can watch it later.

One big issue with the Tivo is that it makes you pick your favorite child. I have to prioritize which shows will record over others if there is a conflict. Which, if you enjoy any show being aired on ABC or CBS, you will discover creates conflicts quite often. Or sometimes, like tonight, the President is on and screws up the whole lineup. Which forces me to have to pay attention. Heaven forbid.

And heaven forbid we watch a show live anymore. I'd rather watch it a bit later so I can zoom through the commercials. Commercials are for sissies! Only losers have to be subjected to them! (See, Tivo is making me jaded.) We have even made up our own Tivo language for it. Cause heaven forbid we forget and watch 2.76 nanoseconds of a commercial - "Hey! Bloop it! You are going to lose your remote priviledges!"

Right now I have a week's worth of reality tv finales, Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy, and as many edited 'TBS lite' episodes of Sex and the City as the remaining space will hold. And somewhere in there are some cartoons for the kids and some sci-fi stuff for DH. (After all, he bought it... we have to let him record the occasional Stargate episode here and there...)

new swear of the week

Heard today from DD (spoken in total disgust):

"Well, that's a bunch of hoo-ha-hooey."

lucky

There is just so much random bad stuff going on right now, that I just have to stop every now and then and take the time to be thankful for all the good stuff. I have so much and I know it. I'm lucky. Happiness, love, friends, family, health - these are all things with which I have been blessed. It is amazing really that no matter how much I screw things up or let things go that these things always remain constant for me.

Mother's Day was great. My family was kind enough to stretch it into a weekend - they pampered me the whole time. I slept late, got breakfast in bed, and sat by and watched while DH and the kiddos cleaned up the house. What more could I ask for? I got a gift certificate for a spa day, which I can't wait to use. Perhaps I will schedule it around my haircut, which is the week of my birthday. I can start the new year (or should I say decade?) off right - looking good and feeling relaxed.

I am still settling in to my new schedule. DH is going all out of his way to help. He has really been going the extra mile. He spoils me in those simple every day kind of ways (like doing the dishes...). Again, I'm lucky, and I know it.

happy mother's day??

what a blessing to be able to see siblings come together and do something nice for mom.....

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!






(You can also watch this here....)

a case of the mondays

I am so tired. It seems I actually have to work for a living these days. LOL! Everything went well and I think it's going to work out great. In the meantime it will take me some time to get adjusted to the new schedule. I am going to have to really fight the insomnia so that I am not so groggy in the afternoon. That's the thing- I can wake up and be fine in the morning, but once the coffee wears off the afternoon slump sets in. Fortunately enough for me today it seemed that everyone was having a "case of the Mondays" (insert air quotes here, Office Space fans). I'm thinking that for the first couple weeks I will just have to keep the caffeine going intravenously. I was highly amused to find that my new desk had a coffee maker on it. It's like they knew me or something. So to whomever left it behind - thanks! I'm sure it will get much use from me. But seriously, how fast are you running out of a place if you leave behind your coffee pot? I'm hoping it's not a bad sign!

go have a laugh

Ok. You need to go visit Empress and laugh your @ss off!!

No seriously! Right now!

I had tears streaming down my face!

Clear 6 minutes, crank the sound, and get your laugh on........

Link to Empress

permission slip ups

I feel like I have hit the jackpot this year.

We have finally landed a teacher who understands what a mother who procrastinates is all about, and knows how to handle it.

She is the best. No, really. She. Is. The. Best!

After sending my DD to school today with a stack of paperwork that needed to be returned at about o'two-weeks-ago thirty, I had a sinking feeling that I should just call and see what else I had missed. Turns out that she can still go on the field trip, but I will need to send in the ten dollars. And grandma can still come to Grandparents' Day, as long as she brings her own lunch. Speaking of lunch, if DD plans to eat again soon, I should probably go ahead and send in the lunch money check. Also, it would be just fabulous if I could send in her homework folder. And the replacement homework folder that we also seem to be holding hostage.

Mmm hmm.

All with a straight face.

Cause if I had to deal with parents like me, I would strangle them.

Of course, this is the same teacher who held a conference appointment open for me (cause I never returned the form) and called to let me know when it was, AND called to confirm when she never heard back from me about it. Twice. Until she finally spoke with me directly.

Saint, I tell ya.

For her sake, I wish I could just sign a blanket form at the beginning of the year just giving my permission. For whatever.

"Dear School,
DD has my permission to participate. Period. Please send me a monthly statement telling me how much, and when to pick her up."

And heaven help them... next year they'll both be going to school there.

That is, if I ever turn in the paperwork to register her.

what. evah.

This weekend DH and I were out and HE got carded.
I didn't.

HMPH!!!

what. evah.

(I'm old.)

ok. yeah. whatever.

I am feeling blog-blocked, so I am just going to go with a stream of conscienceness.

I have so much going on and so much to say, that I have no idea why I'm not putting it all here. I guess I'm just still having a problem putting it OUT THERE, ya know? Ah well. I'm still learning.

In other news, I am newly employed. I'm not so sure how I really feel about it, so I'll just have to get back to you on that. We'll see how it goes. But since I am also newly OLD, I guess it is time to grow up and be responsible. Or whatever. Ha!

So I guess drinking a Mike's Light on a Thursday night by myself while blogging is probably not the best start at responsibility, huh? Too damn bad. *grin*

My cell phone has a bajillion minutes rolled over on it to the point that they are now expiring. So, please. CALL. ME. (Please refer to the previous post where I promise to pick up. No, seriously.)

I seem to be at a point in life where things seem to be lining up for me ok, but everyone around me is falling apart. I hate it. It only seems to highlight my helplessness and ineffectuality. Sometimes all I can do is pray. But I am really trying to BE there. It's all I have to give sometimes.

I am in great and dire need of a creative release. This mostly stems from the fact that I have not scrapped since I've been back. It's been months! Someone please take mercy on me and join me for a scrapfest. I NEED it!!

I think my house is just about unpacked enough that I can finally install The Sims on the new computer. But maybe I should just wait until I get through that basket of papers staring me in the face. When I can't remember what all is in there anymore, it is time to deal with it. Past time really. Blech.

I'm thinking about getting new glasses. I want to get the kind that have black plastic frames. But when I try them on, it doesn't look right. Maybe I should just get them anyways and see if I can just get used to them. I need Transistions lenses, but I don't know how well they work. Anyone have experience with that? If I wasn't too much of a wimp to get contacts I would just go that route. But until I can at least watch DH put his in or take them out, I'm thinking that it is NOT the best idea. Bad eyes -- I'm old. :)

Ok, that's it. Now get off the 'puter and call me (let's use some minutes!).

hurry up and wait

Today is a very hard day.

Today I am playing the "hurry up and wait" game.

This is NOT my favorite game.

I hope things turn out okay. I am very worried.

mr. watson. come here. i need you.

Ok, so maybe posting that you don't answer your phone is not exactly the best idea as it results in phone messages like "I KNOW you're ignoring me. Pick up, pick up, pick up!" or "Call me back! Do you understand me?! Stop ignoring your phone!!"

Alright, alright.

Not answering my phone is NOT good. Not returning calls is WORSE.

So here's the new policy... for one week only... on a trial basis...

I am answering my phone. Call me and see. If not, leave a message. I'll call you back.
No, really!

I'm trying, ok? I don't want to become a hermit. I've seen what that looks like, and it is not pretty.
Plus, I love you guys! I really, really do.

TALK to you later!
:)

more proof that i'm old

We were sitting around talking with DH's family and for reasons I cannot even remember at this point I made the joke "I carried a watermelon." BIL and his girlfriend just looked at me. They had NO IDEA where "I carried a watermelon" was even from. It was before their time.

Cause I'm OLD.

everyday love

What is love?

Love is in the little things.

The sugar high is fast and furious around here. We've been making ourselves sick on Easter candy for the last four days. Our baskets are still overflowing with more than any family will ever need in a lifetime. DH tends towards the sugar candies and I go for the chocolate treats - it's the perfect balance. For some reason the kids prefer the Peeps...Blech! They can have them!

Today DH finally came across the coveted red Starburst. After countless packs of substandard yellows and oranges he finally found one!

"Yes! A red one!" he declared.
"Ooh red! My favorite!" I said without thinking.

He tossed it over to me without hesitation. He wouldn't take it back. And it was delicious!

Around here, giving up the red Starburst is true love.

Cause love is in the little things.

aging?

I'm getting old. The inevitable has happened. I looked in the mirror today and saw somebody's mother. WTF? How did this happen? I got an email from a good friend and she subtley reminded me just how old we have become. We're not kids anymore. Blech!

Why don't you realize going into your twenties that these are the days? Why do we just fritter them away being young and stupid? Oh right. Because we are young and stupid. It's so hard to see that little decisions you make at that age will have such a profound lasting effect on the next few decades of your life. Somebody should warn us. But alas, it is too late.

Seems to me like it is time to stop and smell the roses. I just hope I can resist the urge to get botox.

in honor of kathy

I know I've been gone for awhile - I hope you all haven't forgotten about me.

We lost Kathy last week to pancreatic cancer, and the whole thing has just been awful. She was too young, too vibrant, too good. We know that she fought the good fight to the very end and that it was time for God to end her pain, but that doesn't make it any easier. I think my DD put it best - "I HATE cancer. She should never have had cancer in the first place."

Her daughter, my friend, has had to step up to the plate and handle details and make decisions that nobody our age should ever have to think about. She has done everything with such grace and strength, and I am PROUD of her. It will be a long, long time before things can be normal for her again, if they ever are, but I know that she will be okay. This girl has had more thrown at her in her lifetime than anyone ever should, but she always gets through it somehow. I am in awe of her. She is an amazing testament to her mother - she exudes the same qualities of beauty, strength, happiness, and love. She doesn't see it now, she can't, but she will honor her mother not only by emulating these traits, but by spreading them to those she loves and by passing them forward. This is how Kathy's dynamic legacy will live on.

If you are so inclined as you read this please take a moment to say a prayer for this family. Thank you.

i hab a cold id my dose

Somehow we just can't shake the sickness from this household. It's getting quite ridiculous actually. Generally speaking we are a healthy family, and it's not like any of us are dying or anything. But it just won't go away! I've been hanging onto some coughy, sneezy, runny, cold thing like it's a security blanket or something. I noticed DH more than a few times looking at me with that pitiful look this week. He keeps asking me things like "So what did the doctor say?" or "Wouldn't it be good if you could take something for that?" I think what he really means is "It sure would be nice to be able to kiss my wife without having to swim through a sea of tissues to get to her face," but he's too much of a gentleman to say it out loud.

Meanwhile, I'm just going to drink lots of liquids, keep taking my vitamins, and hug my box of Puffs Plus like it's my newborn baby. At least the kids have already had it, they shouldn't get it again, right? RIGHT???

clemency

How happy is the blameless Vestal's lot?
The world forgetting, by the world forgot.
Eternal sunshine of the spotless mind,
Each prayer accepted and each wish resigned.

new duds

Hey! I gave the place a new look. I also added some music in the sidebar to go along with my last post. Give it a listen. (Unfortunately, I didn't have the acoustic version in the right format - it's much better!)
:)

ordinary world

There are so many things in this world that can't be explained. And there are so many things that I wish I could change.

I heard a song the other day and it reminded me of Adam. He had this tape (not an 8-track, but it was definitely a tape!) in his car and we would listen to it over and over as we would drive aimlessly around town for hours. The tape was the Come Undone extended single by Duran Duran. For us, it was all about the "FGI Phumpin' 12inch" Remix. We loved it! It has a heavy bassline and a strong intro. The acoustic version of Ordinary World is on that tape too, and that is the one that I heard that brought these memories back to me. In my move I found the old tape - it was Adam's but he had given it to me at some point. I'm glad that I have it.

Our friendship was a lot like that tape - funky, fun, strong, confusing, heavy, quirky, thoughtful. Nobody ever understood us, but they didn't have to. It didn't matter. It still doesn't.

People fade in and out of your life, and I regret that he ever faded out of mine.

He was a great friend, and I miss him.

==================================
Ordinary World by Duran Duran

Came in from a rainy Thursday on the avenue,
Thought I heard you talking softly.
I turned on the lights, the TV and the radio
Still I can't escape the ghost of you.
What is happening to it all?
Crazy some say-
Where is the life that I recognize?

Gone away.

But I won't cry for yesterday.
There's an ordinary world
somehow I have to find.
And as I try to make my way
to the ordinary world
I will learn to survive.

Passion or coincidence once prompted you to say-
Pride will tear us both apart.
Well now pride's gone out the window, cross the rooftops, runaway.
Left me in the vacuum of my heart.
What is happening to me?
Crazy some say.
Where is my friend when I need you most?

Gone away.

But I won't cry for yesterday.
There's an ordinary world
somehow I have to find.
And as I try to make my way
to the ordinary world
I will learn to survive.

Papers in the roadside tell of suffering and greed,
Feared today; forgotten tomorrow.
Here beside the news of holy war and holy need,
Ours is just a little sorrowed talk.

Blown away. Just blowing away.

And I won't cry for yesterday.
There's an ordinary world
somehow I have to find.
And as I try to make my way
to the ordinary world
I will learn to survive.

Any world is my world.
Every world is my world.

i think i've been outed....

After some recent posts on SS, I think I have had an influx of new visitors. So welcome to you all! I'm so glad you've found me! Please feel free to snoop around and read the archives. Come back and visit again soon - it will make me feel the pressure to post more often! :)

If you are so inclined, drop me a comment and let me know you were here. Maybe share your favorite quirk, since that's what started it! ;)

(A blogger account is NOT required to comment. Just click 'other' and put in any name you want.)

Again, welcome!! And thanks for stopping by!

what do you wanna do?

Younger Sister to Older Sister: Let's play a game!

Older Sister: Yeah. I'm playing the "Do my homework before Mom has to remind me" game. It's my favorite.

Younger Sister: What about after that?

OS: Then I'm going to play the "Pack my backpack and get ready for school tomorrow" game. It's great.

YS: I don't want to play that.

OS: Why don't you play the "Find something to do by yourself so I can finish my homework" game?

YS: I'm going to do a puzzle.

five quirks

5 QUIRKS

1. The only Poptarts I like are the frosted brown sugar cinammon ones. I eat the edges off first, and then the middle. And I prefer to eat them with a tall glass of chocolate milk. This used to be a popular late night snack for me until I read the nutritional facts last year. Haven't really had them since.

2. I hate to talk on the telephone unless I'm really in the mood. Then I can talk for hours. But I mostly don't answer it, and don't even look to see who's calling. I will check the messages late in the evening sometime, and it is usually too late to call people back. By the time the next day rolls around, I've forgotten all about it. This pisses people off.

3. I am a huge procrastinator and I am perpetually late. These feed into one another. This also drives people nuts. I think if I could get these two things under control I would have an entirely different life. But I wouldn't count on it happening any time soon.

4. I hate extreme temperatures. My perfect climate would be someplace where it is spring or fall all the time. Not too hot, not too cold. I am this way about food, water, weather, and most other temperature related things. I don't put ice in my water because I don't like it too cold. Hot ovens make me nervous.

5. I don't sleep. I go through long periods where I just can't make myself go to bed at night. I start going to bed later and later. Then I drag the whole next day. It is this horrible vicious cycle. I am writing this at 2:18am. I should totally be in bed right now. It's likely I won't get to sleep for another hour or so. Tomorrow will probably be miserable.

deal or no deal

When I dropped DD off at preschool this morning, one of the other mothers had on a nice new coat. When she was complimented on it, she let us know that she had got it on clearance. "It was only $18!" she told us proudly.

I've been thinking about this all day. Why do women do that? Wouldn't it be better to just take the compliment and run without letting us know what kind of deal you got on it? One would think that the purpose of finding a great deal is so that you can look like you spent a fortune without having done so. Or perhaps the purpose is to get as much as you can while spending as little as you can. Or perhaps the purpose is to own the bragging rights to finding the best deal.

I personally never pay full price. I am on the mailing list for all my favorite stores, I know when the change of season clearance sales hit, and I march in armed with a 40% off coupon, free gift with purchase ticket, and stride proudly to the back where the clearance racks are located. I usually leave with an armload of stuff without having paid an arm and a leg for it. It feels amazing!

But when someone compliments me on how I look, should I smile and say "Thanks!" Or should I say "Thanks! I got it on sale!" ???

socialization

Our dear friend's cousin was starring in a play, so we went and saw it yesterday with them. We had so much fun! DD was absolutely cracking up - it was hysterical! She has reached the age where she can really enjoy these kinds of things and gets the jokes. Afterwards we grabbed a bite to eat, hung out, and talked forever. When we got to the restaurant there was a bit of a wait because there was a basketball game down the street that day and people were in a huge rush to eat and get to the game. We didn't mind waiting because it gave us a chance to talk, and when we were seated the service was better as the place had thinned out considerably. The food is always good there, and they brew their own beer which I like. It was a great time.

This weekend we are having dinner with my best friend and her family. Her husband is an amazing cook - everything he makes is absolutely delicious. It is always a pleasure to eat at their place. I am supposed to bring dessert and am at a complete loss as to what to make. Have any good ideas? We'll be packing pjs for the kids when we go. They always love it - like a pseudo-sleepover. Our kids don't see each other enough so it is always a treat for them. It sorta reminds me of when I was a kid when my parents would visit friends. We would get to play with our friends until late into the night, which was so special for us.

Usually every year I take some kind of vacation trip with friends. Sometimes in the winter we go on a big girls' weekend (think 40 women who've left the boyfriends and husbands and kids at home) to a ranch or resort and spend our days skiing, sledding, horseback riding, and playing winter sports - and at night we get our party on. We cram a lot of good times into these trips. I'd tell you about it, but what happens on Go Girl Weekend, stays on Go Girl Weekend, right girls? (Not really, ask me and I'll show you the pics!) We usually have to drag our exhausted selves home and face reality when it's done, but it's always worth it. In the summer we have taken a lot of camping trips that have just been wonderful. DH's friends are die hard hikers, so I gracefully bow out of the hikes if I can, but I still love to camp. I always camped with my family growing up, and love to continue the tradition with my kids. Last year was so complicated that I wasn't able to take any trips, but I am really hoping that this year we will be able to work something out.

It is so nice to be home and to spend time with my friends again. I had truly missed these little moments and cherish that I have them back. DD was on the phone with her BFF the other day, and was telling her that without her around that things just weren't the same. Yeah. I know what she means. And I agree. It's good to be back!!

a window into my world

We have a curtain dilemma. We have been trying to figure out what to put where and have it mostly figured out except for one room. I finally found some at Target (Tar-Jay) but they only had enough for one window (there are two in the room). A couple was in the aisle scooping up the rest before I could get my hands on them (I contemplated wrestling them to the ground and snatching them away from them, but decided otherwise at the last second..... ). I looked them up online and found them on their website, but for some reason the order was not processing properly. I searched the site for a phone number to give them a call - and it was nowhere to be found. I tried calling stores in the area. The first one was insisting that I give him some product number that did not exist on the website that I was looking at. Hey - maybe that is why the order was not going through properly. He wanted to know what brand I was looking at - it just said Tar-Jay Home. What else does it say? he asked. Nothing else. I am holding the package right in front of me and I am looking at the website at the same time. I am not a moron I wanted to tell the 16 year old clerk, but I'm sure it wouldn't have helped. I gave it up with him and decided he was never going to find them even if they had a pile of them at his feet, so I thanked him for his (non-existent) effort and hung up. As I called around from store to store I at least learned that they were on clearance and that their inventory system was not going to show if they are on the shelves or not, so unless I start driving store to store I will never know for sure whether or not they really have any. Eventually I decide to ask one of these stores for the number for the website people, since they are still showing in stock online, but my order is still not going through. After a transfer and a lovely wait on hold, they finally gave it to me. I call, and the first girl I get wants to know my order number so she can help me. I don't have one, that is why I'm calling I tried to explain to her. She actually told me that she would not be able to place my order over the phone, that she would need my password (I don't have one, but whatever). So you're telling me you can't take orders??? What exactly do you do then, since your phone number is more closely guarded than the Colonel's secret recipe and you DON'T. TAKE. ORDERS??? I just hung up on her in frustration, and called right back. This time I got a competent person who was more than happy to take my order, but she let me know that the curtain is on clearance, and out of stock, that the website was not properly updated. Thanks. Can you tell me which stores may have some in stock? Sure, and she transfers me. The next gentleman took my info and gave me a reference number, and transfers me. AGAIN. This person tells me which stores have them (starting at 30 miles away, and going out). 'Kay thanks. So I call the stores to verify, and they say they don't have them.

OKAY TARGET!! I GIVE UP!!!!!!!

So for now I am stuck with the one set for one window and that's it. I haven't been able to find anything else that matches yet. I know that I'm going to have to return the ones I have and find something else.... but ugh!! I'm sick of the whole thing and am about to just tack a sheet up there and call it a day.

latte withdrawal

Well, I am now back in the land of Dunkin Donuts, and after not having my simple coffee for so long I can now safely say that I have OD'ed on the stuff. And in the process I have completely abandoned my ol' standby treat - Starbucks lattes. The thing is, they are usually just something that I have as a treat now and then, but without an alternative all that time I had taken to drinking them on a regular basis. To the point of being tired of them. (What did I just say???) So I haven't even had one since I've been back. Tragedy. But now that I've realized it, I will have to make a point of rectifying the situation tomorrow. And from what I've read from some of you there are new exciting flavors for me to try. Can't wait!!

By the way, I got off my sorry butt and made those cookies with my kids. And they are amazing! So soft and yummy! Trust me, you'd want one (or two or seven). And we had fun making them. So sloth like behavior has come to an end. We have errands to run and people to visit this weekend which should keep me moving.

And besides, I'll have a warm, steamy latte to keep me going.
Ahhhhh. Divine.

slug

Ugh. I have no ambition this week. All I want to do is lay around and eat ice cream, which I don't even have. I was *this* close to throwing together a batch of chocolate chip cookies, but decided at the last second that it was too much effort. I mean, seriously. I don't even need a recipe for that, and I couldn't even be bothered to make them. What a slug I am. Fortunately for me I have ankle biters who need constant attention (read: frequent feedings and juice) or else I might not even get out of bed on days like this. I will admit that I am sporting my pjs at the ripe ol' hour of 6:30. And the hair's a mess. But at least I made it until evening before I self-destructed into "blob" me.

And now it's time for the tots to turn in and DH is out with the guys. Quiet calm is ready to greet me. So I am about to settle in with some junk tv and net surfing and relax. Ahhh.

honey, i'm home!

It is SOOOO good to be home!!

So, did ya miss me? Did ya, did ya? Cause I sure missed you!!

I'm finally getting settled. We're not done by any stretch, but we're settled enough to live for now. We even have our kitty back - he's confused, but so are we sometimes. :) So things are back to normal for now, whatever that is. It's a beautiful day today. Cold but beautiful, and I'm thankful for that.

I am currently listening to Somewhere Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, and I swear this song just makes me smile. I always picture me and DH on a tropical beach somewhere twirling away without a care in the world when I hear it. Good stuff, when a song can just take you away like that.

In other news, I've been to Target and other related stores more times than I care to admit lately, and I think I need to take a little shopping hiatus. (I can't believe I just said that!) Seriously though, I'm not quite sure what presidents have anything to do with sales, but it sure brings out all the crazies. I was quite overwhelmed and am in need of some recovery time.

Well, I should really have more to say than this, but this window has been sitting open for some time now and I haven't come up with anything to add, so that's it for now. Drop me a line and let me know how it's going.

Good to see you all again!!
*MUAH*

hi empress!!!

updated, but not well i'm afraid.

more soon, i promise!!

:D

my own bed

Using your own computer is like sleeping in your own bed. Others may be just as good or better, but they're not YOURS, ya know what I mean? There's nothing like the old comfortable familiar feel of your own. I'm sure it will be like going home after a vacation when I get back to it, and I can't wait. I have been stealing moments here and there when I can, but it's not the same. I don't have access to my links. I think that drives me the most nuts. Having to remember to logout of everything is obnoxious. Having to remember to log IN is obnoxious too for that matter. What the heck is my password again? Why are they all different? Oh, and I must have reset that one because it is "fdsfleiweoiur" or something non-sensical like that, that I will never remember. Dang it! Why don't I ever remember to change it?? And what is the url for that site again that I love? Shoot. I'll have to look it up. Again. And why isn't my favorite site loading? Ever? By now I've wasted all the computer time I've got trying to get to nowhere. Great.

Phew. Can't wait until vacation is over, and I can get home and "sleep in my own bed" !!!

transition

Just a quick update to let you know that I didn't forget about y'all!
I'm in transition right now and will check in when I can, but it's going to take me a bit to get settled. Feel free to drop me a note, email, or whatever now and then if you miss me.
I'll be thinking about you, and will be back posting as soon as I can.
:)

fill in the blanks

1. My uncle once: lived in a house with hundreds of bats in the attic that would swoop outside at dusk.

2. Never in my life: have I jumped out of an airplane. But I would consider it.

3. When I was five: Ian was my best friend and we would play outside until dark everyday.

4. High School is/was: a time when I did a lot of changing.

5. My parents are: starting to realize that I am an adult.

6. I once met: Ed Robertson in a casino. I blabbered like an idiot.

7. There's this girl I know who: is a pathological liar.

8. Once, at a bar: I drunkenly knocked over a barstool in front of my boyfriend’s father.

9. Last night: I didn’t get much sleep.

10. Next time I go to church: will be in search of a new church home.

11. When I turn my head left, I see: what looks like a beautiful spring day, even though it is the middle of January.

12. When I turn my head right, I see: a big pile of scrapbook supplies.

13. How many days until my birthday?: 135.

14. If I was a character written by Shakespeare I'd be: killed in the end over a big misunderstanding a la Juliet.

15. By this time next year: I will be planning for the next phase in my life.

16. A better name for me would be: something people could spell on the first try.

17. I have a hard time understanding: why things never seem to get better.

18. If I ever go back to school I: would have surely lost my mind, since I haven’t really left yet.

19. You know I like you if: I pick on you.

20. If I won an award, the first person I'd thank would be: Whoever was giving the award.

21. Take my advice: Don’t waste time. Do it NOW.

22. My ideal breakfast is: pancakes piled high with butter and syrup. Bacon and sausage. Chocolate milk and coffee.

23. If you visit my hometown: please tell me where it is.

24. Why won't someone: make fat free / calorie free / full taste Snickers bars?

25. If you spend the night at my house: watch out for the early morning gremlins who have absolutely no respect for the sleeping.

26. I'd stop my wedding: to take in every moment before it passed me by.

27. The world could do without: hate.

28. I'd rather lick the belly of a cockroach than: get up early in the morning. I am NOT a morning person.

29. Paper clips are more useful than: my shoe rack.

30. If I do anything well, it is: making people laugh.

31. And by the way: I need my friends more than they realize. Life is short. Don’t waste any precious moments.

i must have learned by osmosis

Well, I guess all is not lost for DD. She's set at least until 8th grade. After that, she's on her own. lol.

You Passed 8th Grade Science

Congratulations, you got 8/8 correct!

Could You Pass 8th Grade Science?

science lab

I don't understand science. I'm just not good at it. Science labs were a recurring nightmare for me in school. When professors handed out the lab assignments I would stare at the directions and have no earthly idea what they meant or what in the world they expected me to do. My coping strategy was to pick the smartest lab partner possible and let them do all the work. I was always more than happy to sit and write down the answers while they did all the science stuff. I had a lab instructor take extreme pity on me one semester and begged me just to give him a one sentence summary of what the lab was supposed to prove. He was not asking me to do the lab, solve any equations, or even write anything down. He just wanted me to tell him in words what we had just spent the last three hours doing. I stared at him blankly. I quite honestly had no concept of what had gone on. I just cannot wrap my brain around the whole science lab process.

I have this thing with my kids where we discuss the best and worst parts of our day. I'd like to think it encourages an open dialogue where we are all comfortable to share our feelings and the ups and downs of daily life. This week DD was proud to tell me the highlight of her entire week - Science Lab. She was so excited to create a hypothesis, run an experiment, and draw a conclusion. She even wrote up a lab report.

Freaking science lab. My heart was bursting with pride. But I certainly hope she isn't going to need any help with her homework.