It's NSD! After a birthday party this morning I plan to be camped at the dining room table participating in the activities at my favorite Scrapbook site, Scrap Addict. They have a TON of contests going and I hope it will get my mojo going.
We took the plunge yesterday and joined the YMCA again. Charles has an appointment Monday with a "coach" to kick start his exercise routine. I'm looking forward to access to the pool again.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Thursday Thirteen for 5/4
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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Blog Tag
Melissa tagged me too...
I AM: a wife, mommy, daughter, employee, friend
I WANT: less yelling in my life
I WISH: I could afford to take my family on a cruise
I HATE: intolerance
I MISS: my sanity (LOL)
I FEAR: bees and snakes
I HEAR: music all the time
I WONDER: what Connor starting kindergarten will change for us
I REGRET: not knowing my father-in-law
I AM NOT: tidy
I DANCE: in my head, like the cell phone commercials
I SING: along with the radio
I CRY: when my friends are hurting
I AM NOT ALWAYS: as patient as I should be
I MAKE WITH MY HANDS: memories for me, my kids, and my grandchildren
I WRITE: this silly blog
I CONFUSE: people when I talk too fast
I NEED: calm and down time
I SHOULD: be sleeping instead of on the computer
I START: any new hobby with an almost obsessive passion
I FINISH: things slowly
I TAG: those who are interested in this to tag themselves!
I AM: a wife, mommy, daughter, employee, friend
I WANT: less yelling in my life
I WISH: I could afford to take my family on a cruise
I HATE: intolerance
I MISS: my sanity (LOL)
I FEAR: bees and snakes
I HEAR: music all the time
I WONDER: what Connor starting kindergarten will change for us
I REGRET: not knowing my father-in-law
I AM NOT: tidy
I DANCE: in my head, like the cell phone commercials
I SING: along with the radio
I CRY: when my friends are hurting
I AM NOT ALWAYS: as patient as I should be
I MAKE WITH MY HANDS: memories for me, my kids, and my grandchildren
I WRITE: this silly blog
I CONFUSE: people when I talk too fast
I NEED: calm and down time
I SHOULD: be sleeping instead of on the computer
I START: any new hobby with an almost obsessive passion
I FINISH: things slowly
I TAG: those who are interested in this to tag themselves!
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Hiking Kicks My Butt
I went camping with Duncan's cub scout pack this weekend -- we actually went early Friday night with two other families, and then the rest of the pack showed up Saturday morning. We went to Stone Mountain State Park, which is about an hour north of us, almost to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Saturday afternoon we went and hiked to a historic homestead in the park, and then on to the Stone Mountain Falls. For all of you in Idaho, who posted falls pictures last week, here's mine!
It was an almost 2 mile hike in to the falls from the parking lot (a moderate trail), so we did close to a four mile round trip. I am SOOO sore this afternoon. Duncan went with Comfort and his dad and did the strenuous loop that goes OVER the mountain top, so they did probably five miles. The kids slept GREAT that night -- I don't think Duncan's head made it to the pillow before he fell asleep. Here are some of the local wildlife we saw on our way from the camping area to the falls.
They were just RIGHT beside the road! And they'd look at you as if to say "Yes?!"Duncan listed his top five moments from the trip for me on the way home.
- Walking to the Falls
- The Creek
- 'Smores
- Ghost Stories by the Campfire
- Going to the top of the mountain
I think we had a pretty good trip!
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Thursday Thirteen for 4/27
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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Tuesday Titterings
Is titterings a word? I'm really liking the blog makeover! For those of you who have asked, I got the blogroll thingy from Courtney, and you can find it at www.blogrolling.com.
It's been an unusual week so far -- I had to go to Charlotte for work Monday so I only have four days at my office this week. I just picked up a new project that is going to slam me for a while. Today was our annual "cleanup" day -- they provide cleaning supplies, and extra trash bins for us to "clean". Tomorrow is my tenth wedding anniversary. It's hard to believe we've been married for that long -- I've been with Charles 1/4 of my life! We'll celebrate in the romantic manner of attending church fellowship dinner; both kids have choir practice tomorrow and sing in two more weeks, so we really can't skip.
Friday after work I leave to take Duncan on the Cub Scout Pack camping trip. We are going about 90 minutes away to a state park, and we'll camp for two nights. The pack doesn't show up til Saturday, but there are 3 or 4 families headed up Friday.
That's all the "titterings" I can think of for today. Catch y'all later in the week!
It's been an unusual week so far -- I had to go to Charlotte for work Monday so I only have four days at my office this week. I just picked up a new project that is going to slam me for a while. Today was our annual "cleanup" day -- they provide cleaning supplies, and extra trash bins for us to "clean". Tomorrow is my tenth wedding anniversary. It's hard to believe we've been married for that long -- I've been with Charles 1/4 of my life! We'll celebrate in the romantic manner of attending church fellowship dinner; both kids have choir practice tomorrow and sing in two more weeks, so we really can't skip.
Friday after work I leave to take Duncan on the Cub Scout Pack camping trip. We are going about 90 minutes away to a state park, and we'll camp for two nights. The pack doesn't show up til Saturday, but there are 3 or 4 families headed up Friday.
That's all the "titterings" I can think of for today. Catch y'all later in the week!
Monday, April 24, 2006
For My Friends That Scrap
I've been a member of a scrapbooking list since before Connor was born. We are getting together this year in Gatlinburg, TN. Here's the ticker for our trip!
I can hardly wait!!
I can hardly wait!!
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Thursday Thirteen
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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Coming Soon....
to this blog is a new look! I just now have to get my customization in so it works. Right now it says "Your Blog Title" no matter what I do... so gotta figure that out. But soon!
Edited: I figured out the above problem -- it's a GIF I have to modify. But the new template is up with a few tweaks still to go! If you want to see where I got it, look at the left side for the "girliebits" link!
Edited: I figured out the above problem -- it's a GIF I have to modify. But the new template is up with a few tweaks still to go! If you want to see where I got it, look at the left side for the "girliebits" link!
Monday, April 17, 2006
Temporary Makeover
OK, this is just temporary... I've found a free template I like and am waiting to see if the lady will let me have the code, but I couldn't stand the lighthouse another day.
It's back to status quo with both kids home -- fights about who sits where, which plate they get to eat off, etc.
It's back to status quo with both kids home -- fights about who sits where, which plate they get to eat off, etc.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Quickie
Duncan is home from spring break at Dot Dot's. It got warm enough here to turn on the air conditioning, and I have to go back to work tomorrow. I'm ready for another vacation week! Stay tuned for a better entry and a makeover of the blog, as soon as I figure out what I want. I did add a better link (using blogroll) so look for that to expand!
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Thursday Thirteen
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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants
Friday, April 07, 2006
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Thursday Thirteen
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Thirteen Things about my training class (4 Roles of Leadership) this week
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Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!
The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
The Nana
Please stop by The Nana's blog and wish her a speedy recovery; she had emergency surgery recently and is on the mend.
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Home Page?
Suddenly I'm shopping for a new home page for when I launch my browser. I've used "My Lycos" for years -- I could add a list of links rather than storing them in my favorites... it showed news, movie listings etc. They suddenly discontinued the service yesterday. I'm SO annoyed. Anyone have any suggestions on another service that does that?
I had a killer grocery shopping day today. Food Lion had a sale on frozen pizzas... Tombstone Pizza was 5 for $10 -- thats a great deal when you have a pizza fiend in the house. Edy's Ice Cream, Klondike bars and something else were also on that sale. I got $214 worth of groceries for $154. I thought I did good!
Our weekend plans have shifted unexpectedly -- Charles was supposed to visit Lisa/Bob this afternoon and their son Connor has strep, so that fell through. Our friend Mike had his two year old in the emergency room for dehydration so he won't be in church tomorrow. It's such a lovely day though -- I had gotten up really early when Connor woke us up and then Charles snored and I couldn't get back to sleep so I took a lovely nap this afternoon with the windows open and the ceiling fan going.
Tonite I hope to match some Scrap Addict kits up with pictures -- I'm going to a big crop on 4/14 and I have nothing prepared.
And on a more somber, but uplifting note... ever since friend Shawn lost Reese to complications from a bone marrow transplant, I've followed several kids through the Caring Bridge network of sites about children in treatment. This is a sad one, but Cam's parents are so grounded, and so uplifting as they hold Cam close while he loses his battle with neuroblastoma... go read if you can handle it. These parents have taught me alot about what is important, and about enjoying what God gives you while you have it.
I had a killer grocery shopping day today. Food Lion had a sale on frozen pizzas... Tombstone Pizza was 5 for $10 -- thats a great deal when you have a pizza fiend in the house. Edy's Ice Cream, Klondike bars and something else were also on that sale. I got $214 worth of groceries for $154. I thought I did good!
Our weekend plans have shifted unexpectedly -- Charles was supposed to visit Lisa/Bob this afternoon and their son Connor has strep, so that fell through. Our friend Mike had his two year old in the emergency room for dehydration so he won't be in church tomorrow. It's such a lovely day though -- I had gotten up really early when Connor woke us up and then Charles snored and I couldn't get back to sleep so I took a lovely nap this afternoon with the windows open and the ceiling fan going.
Tonite I hope to match some Scrap Addict kits up with pictures -- I'm going to a big crop on 4/14 and I have nothing prepared.
And on a more somber, but uplifting note... ever since friend Shawn lost Reese to complications from a bone marrow transplant, I've followed several kids through the Caring Bridge network of sites about children in treatment. This is a sad one, but Cam's parents are so grounded, and so uplifting as they hold Cam close while he loses his battle with neuroblastoma... go read if you can handle it. These parents have taught me alot about what is important, and about enjoying what God gives you while you have it.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Thursday Thirteen
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Thirteen Concerts Carolyn has seen
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Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!
The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
My Easter Bunny Name
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Tuesday, March 28, 2006
A whole week?
Eeek, i'm sorry! It's been a busy one. Charles' bipolar has been bad this week, and the church musical and cub scouts this week... I'll write more soon. I'm here, just slammed!
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
IQ?
I found this on Courtney's blog. It made me feel a little smart...
| Your IQ Is 125 |
 Your Verbal Intelligence is Genius Your Mathematical Intelligence is Genius Your General Knowledge is Above Average |
Monday, March 20, 2006
Busy Weekend
We had a busy day on Saturday. Connor's best friend from pre-school, Adam, turned five on Friday and we were invited to his birthday party. Us and half the county I think, but a marvelous time was had by all. Adam's dad Mike made a great host, and my kids played HARD for 2.5 hours. Here's a picture of the cake moment: 
Sunday the preschool choir sang at the 10:30 service. I think all of them are actually in this picture somewhere! They did really well. We made the kids play in the backyard Sunday afternoon. I'm glad now we did; it sleeted some today. What a way to bring in spring huh? We sat as a family and watched Dr. Who (the new show on Sci-Fi) -- Charles saw it Friday and he showed it to Duncan who liked it. Both kids were asleep by 7:15 pm last night!
Sunday the preschool choir sang at the 10:30 service. I think all of them are actually in this picture somewhere! They did really well. We made the kids play in the backyard Sunday afternoon. I'm glad now we did; it sleeted some today. What a way to bring in spring huh? We sat as a family and watched Dr. Who (the new show on Sci-Fi) -- Charles saw it Friday and he showed it to Duncan who liked it. Both kids were asleep by 7:15 pm last night!
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
The Tooth Fairy Cometh....
for Connor! He lost his first tooth today and he is so stinkin' proud. I will have a picture up tomorrow, I promise. With church tonite it just didn't get done. We are down two people tomorrow at work and I've just been so busy this week.
Hope everyone else had a good Ides of March. I'll post more later this week.
Hope everyone else had a good Ides of March. I'll post more later this week.
Monday, March 13, 2006
My Weekend
I don't know where to start to catch up my faithful audience on my busy weekend. The theme was "cub scouts etc"! Friday night Duncan had his long awaited sleepover at SciWorks. He and Charles went, had to be there at 6:00 p.m. They had a space theme planned for Duncan's age group -- they made a pinhole planetarium, saw a show in the real planetarium there, did balloon rockets and a bunch of other stuff. Late that evening Comfort's dad helped Charles and Duncan fix the wheels on Duncan's pinewood derby car. Why you ask? Because at 9am Saturday (the sleepover ended at 8am) the District Pinewood Derby race opened for checkin! Duncan & Comfort both wanted to go, so I met them w/Duncan at the race. We checked in, and then hung out til race time. They had 45 racers -- each got to run 8 heats, with 3 cars in each heat. After Duncan's car being horribly slow at our pack race, I was quite thrilled to see him running around 3.15 seconds each heat. He placed 2nd in most of his heats. While we didn't win any speed trophies, I was quite proud that he was 28 out of 45. Two of our pack won speed trophies, Caleb in 2nd, Ben in 7th. Then came the surprise... they boys all voted on the car they thought had the best design. They gave away 7 prizes (trophies) without designating order -- and Duncan won one!!! You can see the picture of all of Pack 752's winners on my photo blog!
Saturday afternoon we tried to go watch Comfort's brother race BMX, but they gave us the wrong time so we didn't make it. Sunday we went to Hanging Rock State Park for a picnic. I'm so tired!
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Ha!
| You Are Miss Piggy |
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Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Blog Nonsense -- Blame Courtney
| You Are 18% Evil |
 You are good. So good, that you make evil people squirm. Just remember, you may need to turn to the dark side to get what you want! |
Monday, March 06, 2006
Monday
Back to work after 6 days off with either sick kids or sick me... over 1000 emails to wade through. Fortunately 495 could be deleted without reading, but it's been a LONG day.
I give a big CHEER and HUG to my friend Stacy, who gave up her weekend to come push me through some household repairs. We got a TON done, and I give her major "props" for motivation. I was so tired last night I went to bed at 7:30.
Connor is a popular party boy -- he's been invited to another party next Saturday. We really like this family so I'm looking forward to it. Adam is his big buddy at preschool, and will be turning 5.
Duncan & Connor are both responding well to "responsibility charts" Stacy and I acquired and hung for them. Each day they meet their items they get a positive mark on their chart. Both kids are busting to get "stars". At the end of this week I'll take a picture of each kid with his chart.
It's going to be a busy month for us... tomorrow is cub scouts, and kindergarten registration, and a psychiatrist visit for Duncan. Wednesday is a dental visit for me and speech for Connor, then two choir rehearsals for Duncan and one for Connor. Nothing Thursday, but then Friday night is the cub scout sleepover at the local children's science museum. Whew. I'm tired already!
I give a big CHEER and HUG to my friend Stacy, who gave up her weekend to come push me through some household repairs. We got a TON done, and I give her major "props" for motivation. I was so tired last night I went to bed at 7:30.
Connor is a popular party boy -- he's been invited to another party next Saturday. We really like this family so I'm looking forward to it. Adam is his big buddy at preschool, and will be turning 5.
Duncan & Connor are both responding well to "responsibility charts" Stacy and I acquired and hung for them. Each day they meet their items they get a positive mark on their chart. Both kids are busting to get "stars". At the end of this week I'll take a picture of each kid with his chart.
It's going to be a busy month for us... tomorrow is cub scouts, and kindergarten registration, and a psychiatrist visit for Duncan. Wednesday is a dental visit for me and speech for Connor, then two choir rehearsals for Duncan and one for Connor. Nothing Thursday, but then Friday night is the cub scout sleepover at the local children's science museum. Whew. I'm tired already!
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Blog Nonsense - Blame Melissa
You are an Animated Inventor.
About You
You are an Inventor
Your imagination, self-reliance, openness to new things, and appreciation for utility combine to make you an INVENTOR.
You have the confidence to make your visions into reality, and you are willing to consider many alternatives to get that done.
The full spectrum of possibilities in the world intrigues you—you're not limited by pre-conceived notions of how things should be.
Problem-solving is a specialty of yours, owing to your persistence, curiosity, and understanding of how things work.
Your vision allows you to identify what's missing from a given situation, and your creativity allows you to fill in the gaps.
Your awareness of how things function gives you the ability to come up with new uses for common objects.
It is more interesting for you to pursue excitement than it is to get caught up in a routine.
Although understanding details is not difficult for you, you specialize in seeing the bigger picture and don't get caught up in specifics.
You tend to more proactive than reactive—you don't just wait for things to come to you.
You're not afraid to let your emotions guide you, and you're generally considerate of others' feelings as well.
You do your own thing when it comes to clothing, guided more by practical concerns than by other people's notions of style.
Generally, you believe that you control your life, and that external forces only play a limited role in determining what happens to you.
If you want to be different:
Try applying your creativity to more artistic arenas, and letting your imagination take less practical forms.
How You Relate to Others
You are Animated
You are outgoing, comfortable with others, and up for anything, which makes you ANIMATED.
Some people find crowds and parties exhausting, but not you! You are energized by spending time with others, and are able to be yourself in many situations.
Sometimes it is hard for you to understand why others feel the way they do, but that doesn't stop you from trusting them or having faith that they are good people.
You know the world is complicated and that there is often more than one side to a story, so you are careful not to make judgments about others too hastily.
You would rather experience the world than sit back and observe it—you are not one to sit on the sidelines.
You are an independent thinker and don't get too worried about how others might perceive you—you are not self-conscious about being the active, engaged person that you are.
Although you have a keen understanding of different people's life circumstances, you occasionally have trouble seeing why people get so upset and emotional about things—they should just lighten up and have fun!
In addition to having faith in the world, you have faith in the people around you—you trust others to do the right thing and to be honest.
If you want to be different:
Those who are as outgoing as you are often need to remind themselves that time alone can be just as fulfilling—take some time for yourself and you might find that there are many things in your inner world that are just as compelling as the world outside your window.
Your open-mindedness about the world gives you a great perspective on things, but your lack of trust in others limits how close you can get with them. Try opening up to others a bit more without losing your healthy skepticism.
Still here, still sick
I'm still running a fever, just like Duncan. The only positive note is coughing today seems to be productive. I'm sweating and tired. Connor is on day 2 back at school, and it has helped. We have very quiet mornings without both of them here. They actually started a physical fight yesterday afternoon -- Duncan shoved Connor away from the computer and Connor responded by throwing a punch -- UGH.
On the subject of lent, not that I've ever made a practice of giving something up, but this year I thought I'd give up "raising my voice" for lent. What do you think? *I* think I've captured the spirit of the season...
On the subject of lent, not that I've ever made a practice of giving something up, but this year I thought I'd give up "raising my voice" for lent. What do you think? *I* think I've captured the spirit of the season...
Monday, February 27, 2006
Another Day In the life of Typhoid Mary
My nose is running and I don't feel like chasing it. I think Connor is going back to school tomorrow, we'll see about Duncan. We shovelled Duncan's room today -- got four bags of trash out of it, and he now gets to earn back his yu-gi-oh cards 5 per day that his room stays neat. Charles took his bedframe out of his room so he can't stuff things under it anymore.
Sigh...
Sigh...
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Sick Kids
Shoot me -- both kids have been SOOO sick. Connor starting coughing again Thursday, after his croup had cleared up, and then spiked a fever late Thursday afternoon. By Friday morning he had an ear infection AND bronchitis. He was miserable sick Friday and alot of Saturday. Then today, Duncan woke up with a 102 degree fever. But his is the flu -- UGH. So he's on tamiflu and hopefully we caught it early.
My whole house is contagious!
My whole house is contagious!
Friday, February 24, 2006
The Quick and Painless Enneagram Test
Yep, this is me to a T.
| the Adventurer Test finished! |
you chose AX - your Enneagram type is SEVEN. "I am happy and open to new things"Adventurers are energetic, lively, and optimistic. They want to contribute to the world. How to Get Along with Me
What I Like About Being a Seven
What's Hard About Being a Seven
Sevens as Children Often
Sevens as Parents
Renee Baron & Elizabeth Wagele The Enneagram Made Easy
Would you rather have chosen: |
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| Link: felk on The Quick and Painless ENNEAGRAM Test written by Ok Cupid, home of the 32-Type Dating Test |
Thursday, February 23, 2006
A Tale of Adoption
Easter a few years back was a very sad time at my work. One of the managers at work, Blaine, was just the nicest guy. He had two teenage boys, was active in his church.... We came to work on Easter Monday to find out Blaine's boys, Wes & Andy, had been out with their two best friends Friday night, and three of the four boys had been killed in a car accident that was caused by the driving of the fourth. Blaine & his wife lost their only children to a moment of teenage carelessness. It's one of the reasons I get so incensed at the teenage idiots in my neighborhood -- I've seen what can happen!
For a long while, Blaine was just... hollow. He gradually seemed more "normal", but still a shadow of sadness. Fastforward to Mother's Day 2005. Charles & the kids and I saw Blaine come into Mayberry's with his wife, whose arm was in a sling (she'd had a fall at church that morning). Long story short, as I was talking to them, Blaine shared they were working on adopting a little girl from China. (I'm getting to the point of the story soon, I PROMISE.) It really uplifted alot of us to know they were adopting -- Blaine has said he wasn't done being a parent. They are #2 in line to go, and hope to go to China in May... I had lunch with Blaine one day and we were talking about adoption... he was sharing some of the obnoxious comments he's gotten on it... "Why do you have to go to China to get a child?!" I loved Blaine's answer to this one "Because that's where she is!" I am always really stunned by people who get negative reactions when they adopt. I was reading a friend's blog today and this story came to mind because someone was asking her about her youngest who was adopted from China. Another lady at work came home in November with a son from Guatemala. Other friends from work just celebrated their adopted daughter's 6th birthday -- they got her when she was 2 days old -- their son is 12 I think. When Lisa got her daughter, she commented to me about how supportive I'd been through their process, and how few people were. It just surprises me. I always think people who adopt are like "extra special" parents!
For a long while, Blaine was just... hollow. He gradually seemed more "normal", but still a shadow of sadness. Fastforward to Mother's Day 2005. Charles & the kids and I saw Blaine come into Mayberry's with his wife, whose arm was in a sling (she'd had a fall at church that morning). Long story short, as I was talking to them, Blaine shared they were working on adopting a little girl from China. (I'm getting to the point of the story soon, I PROMISE.) It really uplifted alot of us to know they were adopting -- Blaine has said he wasn't done being a parent. They are #2 in line to go, and hope to go to China in May... I had lunch with Blaine one day and we were talking about adoption... he was sharing some of the obnoxious comments he's gotten on it... "Why do you have to go to China to get a child?!" I loved Blaine's answer to this one "Because that's where she is!" I am always really stunned by people who get negative reactions when they adopt. I was reading a friend's blog today and this story came to mind because someone was asking her about her youngest who was adopted from China. Another lady at work came home in November with a son from Guatemala. Other friends from work just celebrated their adopted daughter's 6th birthday -- they got her when she was 2 days old -- their son is 12 I think. When Lisa got her daughter, she commented to me about how supportive I'd been through their process, and how few people were. It just surprises me. I always think people who adopt are like "extra special" parents!
The Energizer Bunny
Know who Mahalia Jackson is? I just downloaded a song by her for my MP3 player… “Walk in Jerusalem” (from the Divine Secrets of the YaYa Sisterhood soundtrack). Good stuff! I also picked up “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban, “Lady Marmalade” by Patti LaBelle, and “Misled” by Kool and the Gang. Cynthia, are you reading? Add Kool and the Gang to your disco list!
Do you ever look back and realize you’ve really changed from who you used to be? Does it bug you like it bugs me? I know some changes are inevitable, driven by the choices we’ve made. Getting an MP3 player for Valentine’s has made me realize how much I’ve missed “my” music. Charles and I have VERY different tastes. Somehow I’ve just stopped listening like I used to. I guess with all the “noise” of a family I couldn’t handle more.
I have some great friends. One of my very handy friends is coming up in a week or two, and we’re going to toss all three boys out and get some badly needed home repairs (like recaulking my bathtub & weather-stripping the doors)… I feel so… energized this morning. There’s a technical term for when databases on computers get locked up by conflicting requests – they can have deadly embraces or simply an enqueue. I think that’s where Charles and I are in our relationship at the moment – we just can’t seem to get forward motion. Maybe this outside influence, someone to energize me (by home repairs of all things) will be good for us?
Do you ever look back and realize you’ve really changed from who you used to be? Does it bug you like it bugs me? I know some changes are inevitable, driven by the choices we’ve made. Getting an MP3 player for Valentine’s has made me realize how much I’ve missed “my” music. Charles and I have VERY different tastes. Somehow I’ve just stopped listening like I used to. I guess with all the “noise” of a family I couldn’t handle more.
I have some great friends. One of my very handy friends is coming up in a week or two, and we’re going to toss all three boys out and get some badly needed home repairs (like recaulking my bathtub & weather-stripping the doors)… I feel so… energized this morning. There’s a technical term for when databases on computers get locked up by conflicting requests – they can have deadly embraces or simply an enqueue. I think that’s where Charles and I are in our relationship at the moment – we just can’t seem to get forward motion. Maybe this outside influence, someone to energize me (by home repairs of all things) will be good for us?
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Awesome Quote
You gotta go read it, it's great. Find it here! For those of you too lazy, here it is:
“If you hear that someone is speaking ill of you, instead of trying to defend yourself you should say: "He obviously does not know me very well, since there are so many other faults he could have mentioned" ^Epictetus^
“If you hear that someone is speaking ill of you, instead of trying to defend yourself you should say: "He obviously does not know me very well, since there are so many other faults he could have mentioned" ^Epictetus^
Read Your Phone Bills!
Mine was higher than normal this month, so I went out to read it... and there is a $14.95 charge (plus tax & some 5 cent fee) for "internet services" from ILD Telecom. I've filed a complaint with the phone company already, but I looked it up on the web and this is a company with MANY complaints to the FCC. Great... now I gotta figure out how to get them out of my life. UGH!!!
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Updates...
The crop on Saturday was GREAT! I got 23 pages done, and had a lovely time. Of course I was wrecked alot on Sunday and Monday, but I really enjoyed it.
My Scrappin' Survivor team lost immunity Saturday, but I survived the vote. I've already gotten another 5 pages done and submitted them, including my favorite which is posted over on the photo blog. Our challenge for this week is to scrap about things/people that have happened in the last year -- kind of wrecks my momentum on old stuff, but I'd like to get more pages done before this challenge is up. The other team has someone on exile island, so I'm hoping we make it harder for her to escape exile.
Connor came down with croup -- he sounded horrible this morning. They put him on steroids at the doctor's office, and we have already seen a remarkable improvement. Charles had a counseling appointment today -- she doesn't see him again for a month. I really have struggled lately -- Charles and I are having differences, and while I think his current mindframe (re: Bipolar Disease) is better, I don't feel like we are where we need to be. I just struggle with the next steps.
Tonite I'm going to be a TV junkie -- flipping between American Idol and the Olympics. Last thought for the day (I saw this on Amy's blog) -- even if you don't have anything tremendous to say, drop me a "Hello" in the comments once in a while so I know you were here, ok?
My Scrappin' Survivor team lost immunity Saturday, but I survived the vote. I've already gotten another 5 pages done and submitted them, including my favorite which is posted over on the photo blog. Our challenge for this week is to scrap about things/people that have happened in the last year -- kind of wrecks my momentum on old stuff, but I'd like to get more pages done before this challenge is up. The other team has someone on exile island, so I'm hoping we make it harder for her to escape exile.
Connor came down with croup -- he sounded horrible this morning. They put him on steroids at the doctor's office, and we have already seen a remarkable improvement. Charles had a counseling appointment today -- she doesn't see him again for a month. I really have struggled lately -- Charles and I are having differences, and while I think his current mindframe (re: Bipolar Disease) is better, I don't feel like we are where we need to be. I just struggle with the next steps.
Tonite I'm going to be a TV junkie -- flipping between American Idol and the Olympics. Last thought for the day (I saw this on Amy's blog) -- even if you don't have anything tremendous to say, drop me a "Hello" in the comments once in a while so I know you were here, ok?
Saturday, February 18, 2006
"Relationship Rescue" by Dr. Phil
This book has been recommended to me as something that might improve things between me and Charles. I just looked it up on Amazon... wonder if Charles would do it?
I need to rearrange our banking situation -- he sneaked another $20 out of the ATM today. I know overspending is a tendency of folks with bipolar... but he's gonna bankrupt us!!
Now to say something nice, since I've been a poison pen lately... my favorite scrapbook store has a quarterly all day crop, which happens to be tomorrow. Charles is letting me go ALL day and keeping the kids. I did have to "bribe" him with a $23 book from Amazon.Com, but I'm sooo looking forward to a day of peace and creativity.
I need to rearrange our banking situation -- he sneaked another $20 out of the ATM today. I know overspending is a tendency of folks with bipolar... but he's gonna bankrupt us!!
Now to say something nice, since I've been a poison pen lately... my favorite scrapbook store has a quarterly all day crop, which happens to be tomorrow. Charles is letting me go ALL day and keeping the kids. I did have to "bribe" him with a $23 book from Amazon.Com, but I'm sooo looking forward to a day of peace and creativity.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
And then...
So after twelve minutes of effort (yes, I timed it) my sink has improved, not quite to fly lady shiny sink standards, but better, and the dishwasher is running.
And so start the tears. Is this me, that I'm just "lazy" or "selfish" that I don't just pitch in? What is HE doing to maintain our marriage and our home. What kind of mom am I that I allow our kids to be in the middle of this? Burning questions that I wish I had answers to.
I'm so frustrated....
Yes, it really is 4am. Charles is snoring like a wounded chainsaw, and I just can't get back to sleep.
I just posted some really upsetting (to me) pictures to my photo blog of the state of my house. Another blogger that I follow posted about something recently, and noted that she wanted help keeping herself honest, so I'm trying to keep ME honest that I have some issues to work through.
Two years ago, Charles begged for the opportunity to be a stay at home dad. We talked about how this wasn't being unemployed, it was making being our "domestic engineer" his job, and what I was expected to do with housework, which wasn't much. We agreed upon this.
Go look at the picture of my kitchen sink. Go look at the picture of my youngest son's room -- I've posted about shoveling it out recently, and look where it is tonite. I don't feel very blessed at the moment, yet I feel like doing it myself is allowing him to coast. I don't feel taken care of. We disagree, and sometimes even fight on a regular basis about how I don't "appreciate him". Would y'all appreciate being taken care of like this? Would you let a 5 yr old's room get to this state and blame it on him?
I know he has a disease (bi-polar depression) that can be debilatating at times. But what I don't know is how he can think he is doing his part for our family. He's so hard to fight with -- he's very good at emotional blackmail. He pouts. He sulks. He blames it on the fact that I don't show him enough how much I love him. Well I love him, but I don't like him very much right now. KWIM?
I just posted some really upsetting (to me) pictures to my photo blog of the state of my house. Another blogger that I follow posted about something recently, and noted that she wanted help keeping herself honest, so I'm trying to keep ME honest that I have some issues to work through.
Two years ago, Charles begged for the opportunity to be a stay at home dad. We talked about how this wasn't being unemployed, it was making being our "domestic engineer" his job, and what I was expected to do with housework, which wasn't much. We agreed upon this.
Go look at the picture of my kitchen sink. Go look at the picture of my youngest son's room -- I've posted about shoveling it out recently, and look where it is tonite. I don't feel very blessed at the moment, yet I feel like doing it myself is allowing him to coast. I don't feel taken care of. We disagree, and sometimes even fight on a regular basis about how I don't "appreciate him". Would y'all appreciate being taken care of like this? Would you let a 5 yr old's room get to this state and blame it on him?
I know he has a disease (bi-polar depression) that can be debilatating at times. But what I don't know is how he can think he is doing his part for our family. He's so hard to fight with -- he's very good at emotional blackmail. He pouts. He sulks. He blames it on the fact that I don't show him enough how much I love him. Well I love him, but I don't like him very much right now. KWIM?
Monday, February 13, 2006
Monday Mutterings
Well, today was ... interesting. It was hell on wheels at work, that's what I get for staying home with a sick kid on Friday. Connor's toe continues to improve.
After work we headed to the card store to get valentines for the kids to give -- sheesh, after cards, small gifts for teachers... we spent $25! After dinner I sat the kids down to address their valentines. Even Connor in preschool can sign his name to the cards.
We talked to our friends Lisa & Bob -- they had an eventful weekend. Apparently the exhaust for their dryer had gotten clogged, and it caught their dryer on fire (flames!) and burned it up. Luckily they had a smoke detector in the laundry room and discovered it very quick, but the dryer and the contents are a loss. We took a couple of hand-me-down coats over as their almost 2 yr old's winter coat was in the dryer. Made me feel useful to fill that void so Lisa didn't have to hurry and hunt a coat.
After dinner Charles let me open my Valentine's present -- an MP3 player, just like his. I've already loaded it with 128 songs and am happily listening. Tomorrow at work will be cool!
After work we headed to the card store to get valentines for the kids to give -- sheesh, after cards, small gifts for teachers... we spent $25! After dinner I sat the kids down to address their valentines. Even Connor in preschool can sign his name to the cards.
We talked to our friends Lisa & Bob -- they had an eventful weekend. Apparently the exhaust for their dryer had gotten clogged, and it caught their dryer on fire (flames!) and burned it up. Luckily they had a smoke detector in the laundry room and discovered it very quick, but the dryer and the contents are a loss. We took a couple of hand-me-down coats over as their almost 2 yr old's winter coat was in the dryer. Made me feel useful to fill that void so Lisa didn't have to hurry and hunt a coat.
After dinner Charles let me open my Valentine's present -- an MP3 player, just like his. I've already loaded it with 128 songs and am happily listening. Tomorrow at work will be cool!
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Still Blah
I don't know what has gotten into me lately... I don't feel "depressed", but I sure have the blahs. Nothing interests me, I'm not motivated to do anything, and all I want to do is sleep.
Connor's toe is improving -- it's not nearly as swollen and the soaking is helping to eliminate the horrid drainage. He's not complaining about it, and is rather proud that he has medicine too. Both kids have been little beasts this weekend... sassy, disrespectful, shouting, fighting, uncooperative. I really haven't enjoyed any of the males in the house this weekend.
On an up note, I am starting a game of Scrappin' Survivor tomorrow on one of my lists. Hopefully that will kickstart me a bit. I'm still knitting on my knifty looms -- made Duncan & Charles hats, and am now working on Connor's.
I was very sad to see Michelle Kwan have to withdraw from the Olympics, although it shows what a class act she is.
Anyways, I'm still here, just not very motivated to write anything.
Connor's toe is improving -- it's not nearly as swollen and the soaking is helping to eliminate the horrid drainage. He's not complaining about it, and is rather proud that he has medicine too. Both kids have been little beasts this weekend... sassy, disrespectful, shouting, fighting, uncooperative. I really haven't enjoyed any of the males in the house this weekend.
On an up note, I am starting a game of Scrappin' Survivor tomorrow on one of my lists. Hopefully that will kickstart me a bit. I'm still knitting on my knifty looms -- made Duncan & Charles hats, and am now working on Connor's.
I was very sad to see Michelle Kwan have to withdraw from the Olympics, although it shows what a class act she is.
Anyways, I'm still here, just not very motivated to write anything.
Friday, February 10, 2006
Friday
Poor Connor -- little guy has an infected toe at the base of his nail. It's oozing pus and just looks gnarly! He started anti-biotics this morning after his doctor's visit, and we have to get him to sit still and soak his toe. Best estimate is he'll be doing better in a couple of days.
I on the other hand am suffering from a stiff neck/shoulder morning, and just the general blahs. Sigh!
I on the other hand am suffering from a stiff neck/shoulder morning, and just the general blahs. Sigh!
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Thursday Surprise
See what we woke up to? Two hour delay for school, and I'm afraid the snow might not be here when they get home. Duncan had a field trip today, which I suspect is not going to happen now. Ah well, they were very excited to wake up to this!
Saturday, February 04, 2006
Seriously PROUD Mama
Duncan's pack had their "Blue/Gold" banquet/den meeting tonite. One of the activities was a father/son dessert contest.
There were 3 awards -- best scout theme, "wish mom had helped", and best in class. Duncan made "Fluff", a diabetic friendly dessert, and all dad did was help stir. And he won best in Class!!! GO DUNCAN!!!
Kharma is a bitch, and lives in my neighborhood!
It's been a LONG while since I got wound about the idiot teenagers in my neighborhood. They do STUPID unsafe stuff. I've called the police on two occasions, and been blessed out by neighbors over it. So I now try to ignore it and simply keep my kids safe.
Well... we've got one teen who speeds up and down the street constantly. Apparently he almost hit the neighbors dog this morning. And he got a MAJOR chew out by the neighbor... I'm still laughing. Scott went postal on him (Scott has two teenagers) and George deserved every single word of it. I do so enjoy when I'm not the only one with a concern. Sorry, George, kharma is a BITCH!
Well... we've got one teen who speeds up and down the street constantly. Apparently he almost hit the neighbors dog this morning. And he got a MAJOR chew out by the neighbor... I'm still laughing. Scott went postal on him (Scott has two teenagers) and George deserved every single word of it. I do so enjoy when I'm not the only one with a concern. Sorry, George, kharma is a BITCH!
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Blame Courtney
I found this on her blog, so blame her!
| You Have a Choleric Temperament |
 You are a person of great enthusiasm - easily excited by many things. Unsatisfied by the ordinary, you are reaching for an epic, extraordinary life. You want the best. The best life. The best love. The best reputation. You posses a sharp and keen intellect. Your mind is your primary weapon. Strong willed, nothing can keep you down. Your energy can break down any wall. You're an instantly passionate person - and this passion gives you an intoxicating power over others. At your worst, you are a narcissist. Full of yourself and even proud of your faults. Stubborn and opinionated, you know what you think is right. End of discussion. A bit of a misanthrope, you often see others as weak, ignorant, and inferior. |
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Tired....
Sorry gang -- January just isn't my best month of the year. Yesterday I faced my fears and entered Connor's room -- UGHHHHHHHHHHH. We helped him clean it but OMG was it horrid. He trashed it again today, so he got to cry while I gently lectured him about it as I helped him pick it up. Honestly, it's a 10x10 room -- this isn't this hard! I didn't do much of anything this weekend, I was fighting a headache/migraine so I just lazed around. I am soo glad Tuesday is payday.
I am about 5 challenges behind on my favorite scrapbooking site, and I hope that I can get motivated to catch up soon. Charles' birthday is this Thursday, so I've got to fit in shopping Tuesday or Wednesday around cub scouts & fellowship night. My mother-in-law is coming up on Friday, and Duncan has a pack meeting/pot luck Saturday night, so it's another busy week. I am desparate for a hair cut, and for my W2!
Hopefully I'll feel more like writing this week.
I am about 5 challenges behind on my favorite scrapbooking site, and I hope that I can get motivated to catch up soon. Charles' birthday is this Thursday, so I've got to fit in shopping Tuesday or Wednesday around cub scouts & fellowship night. My mother-in-law is coming up on Friday, and Duncan has a pack meeting/pot luck Saturday night, so it's another busy week. I am desparate for a hair cut, and for my W2!
Hopefully I'll feel more like writing this week.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
More Blog Nonsense
I was... =)
| You Are Likely a First Born |
 At your darkest moments, you feel guilty. At work and school, you do best when you're researching. When you love someone, you tend to agree with them often. In friendship, you are considerate and compromising. Your ideal careers are: business, research, counseling, promotion, and speaking. You will leave your mark on the world with discoveries, new information, and teaching people to dream. |
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
What Scrapbook Supply Are You?
I got this from Jen's Blog...
You are Fibers!
Fun and crazy at times. You are a warm fuzzy kind of person. You run around getting things done but still find time for fun! You have so many diverse interests that it is often hard to pin you down to any one thing. People love your friendly attitude and carefree ways. You often brighten other people's days. But Fibers Beware - Sometimes people don't take you seriously because of your happy-go-lucky ways. Sometimes you find yourself feeling left out from decision making that could directly affect you. Even though you like to be happy and cheerful, make sure others know that you can also be serious and in tune with reality.
What scrapbooking item are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
Sunday, January 22, 2006
1/22 -- Much Ado About Nothing
We had a rainy, dreary weekend! It started Friday with Duncan's cub scout pack meeting. I was so tired, I didn't want to go anywhere, but I wouldn't have missed it for the world. Comfort's mom called about an hour beforehand to let us know he was running a 103 degree fever and wouldn't make it. So we headed to scouts, signed Duncan up for the scout sleepover at SciWorks in March, and sat down for a long evening of awards. Duncan got his last two progress beads and a belt loop, and then he got his bear rank -- this is what they've been working towards all year, and why we were all so sad Comfort couldn't make it.
Saturday I found out Comfort had been hospitalized Friday -- he had an infection around his insulin pump site, so I went over to the hospital to see him, and to ensure Judy had a chance to get a break if she wasn't comfortable leaving him. We really didn't do much of anything Saturday, except I sat down to watch the Miss America pageant on CMT and knitted Connor a scarf.
So here comes Sunday -- again, very blah day. We were mean parents, and deprived our offspring of TV & computer privileges until they made a reasonable attempt to clean their rooms. Connor spent 5 hrs in his room rather than clean it. Duncan passed inspection in about 40 minutes! I did my grocery shopping, and took a nap. Comfort was released today so he should be back in school Tuesday or Wednesday.
Have a good week folks!
Saturday I found out Comfort had been hospitalized Friday -- he had an infection around his insulin pump site, so I went over to the hospital to see him, and to ensure Judy had a chance to get a break if she wasn't comfortable leaving him. We really didn't do much of anything Saturday, except I sat down to watch the Miss America pageant on CMT and knitted Connor a scarf.
So here comes Sunday -- again, very blah day. We were mean parents, and deprived our offspring of TV & computer privileges until they made a reasonable attempt to clean their rooms. Connor spent 5 hrs in his room rather than clean it. Duncan passed inspection in about 40 minutes! I did my grocery shopping, and took a nap. Comfort was released today so he should be back in school Tuesday or Wednesday.
Have a good week folks!
Saturday, January 21, 2006
The Power of 4
Ok, Briana tagged me.
4 jobs you have had in your life
1. P.E. Department Assistant in college (made copies, answered phones)
2. Programmer for EDS
3. Sr. Quality Assurance Analyst at Wachovia
4. Worked for #3 since 1990
4 Movies You Could Watch Over and Over
1. Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan
2. The Mummy
3. Hunt for Red October
4. The Thirteenth Warrior
4 Places You Have Lived
1. Lynchburg, VA
2. Lordstown, OH
3. Grand Blanc, MI
4. Winston-Salem, NC
4 Shows You Love To Watch
1. Survivor
2. Project Runway
3. America's Next Top Model
4. Law & Order
4 Places You Have Been on Vacation
1. Myrtle Beach, SC
2. Maggie Valley, NC
3. Cruise to the caribbean
4. Jamaica
4 Websites You Visit Daily
1. Scrap Addict
2. Gullum's Thugs
3. MSNBC
4. USA Today
4 Of Your Favorite Foods
1. Steak
2. Chocolate
3. Pizza
4. Crabmeat
4 Places You Would Rather Be Right Now
1. Beach
2. Napping
3. Watching my kids play outside (it's rainy)
4. At a crop
4 Bloggers You Are Tagging
If you are reading this, have a blog, and haven't done it, consider yourself tagged!
4 jobs you have had in your life
1. P.E. Department Assistant in college (made copies, answered phones)
2. Programmer for EDS
3. Sr. Quality Assurance Analyst at Wachovia
4. Worked for #3 since 1990
4 Movies You Could Watch Over and Over
1. Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan
2. The Mummy
3. Hunt for Red October
4. The Thirteenth Warrior
4 Places You Have Lived
1. Lynchburg, VA
2. Lordstown, OH
3. Grand Blanc, MI
4. Winston-Salem, NC
4 Shows You Love To Watch
1. Survivor
2. Project Runway
3. America's Next Top Model
4. Law & Order
4 Places You Have Been on Vacation
1. Myrtle Beach, SC
2. Maggie Valley, NC
3. Cruise to the caribbean
4. Jamaica
4 Websites You Visit Daily
1. Scrap Addict
2. Gullum's Thugs
3. MSNBC
4. USA Today
4 Of Your Favorite Foods
1. Steak
2. Chocolate
3. Pizza
4. Crabmeat
4 Places You Would Rather Be Right Now
1. Beach
2. Napping
3. Watching my kids play outside (it's rainy)
4. At a crop
4 Bloggers You Are Tagging
If you are reading this, have a blog, and haven't done it, consider yourself tagged!
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Catch Up!
I'm so sorry! Life caught up with me this past week, and computer time
just wasn't in the picture.
Our MLK day weekend was very busy. We left Sunday morning for Charlotte
to visit Charles' family. Sunday afternoon Charles' sister Susan & I
took the kids to a local kids/science museum, Discovery Place. Duncan &
Connor had a blast. I think Connor's favorite two things were the
rainforest room and the water play table, not necessarily in that order.
Duncan liked it all I think. I ran out to Michael's and used my 40% off
coupon to buy a knitting loom and some yarn. I had seen someone with one
and wanted to try it. After dinner at my mother-in-law's house, we headed
to Gastonia to visit friends Penny & Jim. Their youngest is two months
old and shares Connor's birthday. Jasmine has changed alot since we saw
her at Thanksgiving. We got interested in the Serenity TV series/movie
and stayed WAY too late at their house. I arrived at Penny's house with
maybe an inch of a scarf done. I left with 2/3 of a scarf done!
Monday brought the real reason for our trip to Charlotte -- I had gotten
Dot, Duncan & I tickets to see the NBA's Charlotte Bobcats play the New
Orleans Hornets that afternoon. Unfortunately Dot wasn't feeling well so
Duncan & I went alone. We rode the Charlotte Trolley into downtown,
which was alot of fun. It dropped us right at the door of the arena.
We were there as part of a group supporting Chris Paul, who plays for the
Hornets. We got free T-shirts and mardi gras beads. I was quite
tickled that the Hornets stomped the Bobcats. Afterwards we stayed to
hear Chris talk for a few minutes to the group, then rode the trolley back
to our car.
Our Monday ended with dinner at iHop, and a drive home. I was exhausted,
and have stayed that way all week. I did finish my scarf on Tuesday night
in front of the TV, and have now started on one for Duncan at his request.
Last night we went to fellowship at church, where they had a program that
included a magician/ventriloquist. Both kids enjoyed that.
So that's what you have missed. Sorry to alarm anyone. I do try to put
at least a picture a day on weekdays to my photo blog -- if I'm not posting
here you can always check the photo blog to see if I'm still alive and
kicking!
Sorry about that!
Eeek -- I didn't mean to go a week w/o posting. I'm about to dart out the door to work, but in response to the kind comments, I'm fine (other than a mild cold)! More tonite!
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Is it too much to ask?
I went to bed really early Wednesday -- I had taken some analgesic for my back and was just dead tired. So when Connor wiggled between me and Charles at 2:50 a.m., I just got up -- I'd had almost 7 hrs sleep... and thought I'd have some quiet time on the computer. (Charles reformatted his Tuesday and we hosed something and now can't get it to do ANYTHING)
So here I am blissfully eating potato chips, drinking diet coke, reading blogs at 3:20 am, and here comes my husband... is it too much to ask that when you get up for some quiet time in the middle of the night that you get left alone? Can we say co-dependent??!!
So here I am blissfully eating potato chips, drinking diet coke, reading blogs at 3:20 am, and here comes my husband... is it too much to ask that when you get up for some quiet time in the middle of the night that you get left alone? Can we say co-dependent??!!
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
WooHOOOO!
Chris Paul played with the Hornets last night, so it looks like he'll be
playing Monday -- YIPPEEEEE! I was really bummed about the possibility
of him not playing Monday. Of course anything can happen between now and
Monday, but things are looking up!
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Can I Skip Winter?
Ugh -- I hate my back some days -- I get knots in my neck and shoulder muscles and they can be almost crippling sometimes. Can I just skip January & February?
Duncan had cub scouts tonite -- he has completed his Bear Badge requirements, and it will be awarded next Friday! I'm so proud of him. He hasn't had great days at school so far -- his teacher tells me he is rushing through his work and not doing it right, even when he knows how to do it. Any suggestions ladies?
Duncan had cub scouts tonite -- he has completed his Bear Badge requirements, and it will be awarded next Friday! I'm so proud of him. He hasn't had great days at school so far -- his teacher tells me he is rushing through his work and not doing it right, even when he knows how to do it. Any suggestions ladies?
Bummed
I am sooo bummed! Chris Paul plays for the New Orlean's Hornets in the NBA -- I work with his mother. She got a group together a while back so we could see them play the Charlotte Bobcats on Monday. Chris injured his thumb this week and is expected to be sidelined for two weeks... WAAAAAAA. I'm still gonna enjoy the game, but I am soo disappointed!
Five Weird Things About Me
Courtney tagged me, so I guess I have to play!
1. I used to study ballroom dancing. Sometimes I have the picture of an elephant in a tutu, but I really really loved it. Maybe when my kids are grown I'll have time again.
2. I have a needle phobia. Blood and guts doesn't bother me, but whip out a needle and I hide!
3. I love disco music... I still listen to a ton of it. I even had a disco Christmas album for a while.
4. My favorite season is fall, not spring. I just find it peaceful and inspiring.
5. As messy as my house is I can be very particular about how my desk & scrapbooking stuff is handled. I want it EXACTLY where I put it. Maybe it's a control issue?
1. I used to study ballroom dancing. Sometimes I have the picture of an elephant in a tutu, but I really really loved it. Maybe when my kids are grown I'll have time again.
2. I have a needle phobia. Blood and guts doesn't bother me, but whip out a needle and I hide!
3. I love disco music... I still listen to a ton of it. I even had a disco Christmas album for a while.
4. My favorite season is fall, not spring. I just find it peaceful and inspiring.
5. As messy as my house is I can be very particular about how my desk & scrapbooking stuff is handled. I want it EXACTLY where I put it. Maybe it's a control issue?
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Mundane Thursday
Thank you Courtney -- yes today was better! Just a few twinges from my cheek after yesterday's dental work. I am so relieved to have it behind me. I had a bunch of meetings again today, but they weren't as bad as yesterday. My neck muscles have been bothering me a little this week, but so far aleve & tylenol have kept them from bothering me too badly.
My brother and his wife welcomed their fourth child this week -- I was so excited to get to see pictures sent by my day yesterday. They are expected home from the hospital tomorrow. WooHOO!
Charles took the car back by the body shop today, and they fixed all the wiggles & rattles and the sensor problem -- I am soo relieved. I really was afraid it was going to be something major again. Connor's twice-a-week speech therapy starts tomorrow. My only major to-do remaining is to find Charles a new psychiatrist.
Sorry that I don't have anything terribly witty or profound to share this week -- I have been busy printing from my new photo printer, and hope to get a bit of scrapbooking done this weekend, so maybe that creative time will inspire me here as well?
My brother and his wife welcomed their fourth child this week -- I was so excited to get to see pictures sent by my day yesterday. They are expected home from the hospital tomorrow. WooHOO!
Charles took the car back by the body shop today, and they fixed all the wiggles & rattles and the sensor problem -- I am soo relieved. I really was afraid it was going to be something major again. Connor's twice-a-week speech therapy starts tomorrow. My only major to-do remaining is to find Charles a new psychiatrist.
Sorry that I don't have anything terribly witty or profound to share this week -- I have been busy printing from my new photo printer, and hope to get a bit of scrapbooking done this weekend, so maybe that creative time will inspire me here as well?
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Pfffttt
I'm so glad today is OVER. Wednesday is always my longest day at work --starts with an 8:00 am meeting. Today I had meetings scheduled straight to 3pm with only a lunch break. I left at 3pm to go to the dentist. Two fillings done, reasonably painless, but now that the novacaine is wearing off my cheek is s-o-r-e.
Dinner at fellowship tonite was very bland and ... well, not my favorite. I substituted as the choir mom for Duncan's choir. We had about 15 minutes to go when one of the girls, Rachel, started throwing up. Bless her heart -- she's such a dainty young lady and was NOT happy about this.
Then we got home and the kids were acting up -- I've taken a dose of aleve hoping it helps me til my cheek gets over the shots. Hope everyone else had a better day!
Dinner at fellowship tonite was very bland and ... well, not my favorite. I substituted as the choir mom for Duncan's choir. We had about 15 minutes to go when one of the girls, Rachel, started throwing up. Bless her heart -- she's such a dainty young lady and was NOT happy about this.
Then we got home and the kids were acting up -- I've taken a dose of aleve hoping it helps me til my cheek gets over the shots. Hope everyone else had a better day!
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Back to Reality...
Sigh... back to work, etc... it seemed like such a long day today at work. I got alot done, but not enough. Tomorrow I am in meetings solid from 8am - noon, and then 1pm - 3pm. And I have alot of other stuff to get done!
It was a better evening on the home front -- my Christmas present arrived and I love it! I printed ALOT of pictures to scrapbook -- I can see more photo paper in my future shortly. Duncan had cub scouts tonite -- we have one more achievement to complete and he'll get his bear badge on 1/20! WooHOO. Charles took him tonite so I could play with my new toy. Judi (Comfort's mom) commented on how much better Duncan's current dose of medication is working. Ms. Rudy (our den leader) has a ton of neat things planned for the boys this spring.
Tomorrow brings the return of Fellowship night at church -- I'm not positive the kids have choir practice, but I think they will. I know they are looking forward to seeing the Tomihiro children. I watched Mad Hot Ballroom tonite (in from Netflix) -- it was good, but not quite what I expected. We have a fun afternoon planned with Comfort & his family on Sunday afternoon, so it's shaping up to be a busy week.
It was a better evening on the home front -- my Christmas present arrived and I love it! I printed ALOT of pictures to scrapbook -- I can see more photo paper in my future shortly. Duncan had cub scouts tonite -- we have one more achievement to complete and he'll get his bear badge on 1/20! WooHOO. Charles took him tonite so I could play with my new toy. Judi (Comfort's mom) commented on how much better Duncan's current dose of medication is working. Ms. Rudy (our den leader) has a ton of neat things planned for the boys this spring.
Tomorrow brings the return of Fellowship night at church -- I'm not positive the kids have choir practice, but I think they will. I know they are looking forward to seeing the Tomihiro children. I watched Mad Hot Ballroom tonite (in from Netflix) -- it was good, but not quite what I expected. We have a fun afternoon planned with Comfort & his family on Sunday afternoon, so it's shaping up to be a busy week.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Thoughts for 2006
So many people say they don't make New Year's Resolutions because they never keep them. I try to make resolutions that will grow me and stretch me, not break me. If you don't have a goal, how do you know where to go?
So here's some of mine, in random order.
So here's some of mine, in random order.
- Yell less. I really don't like me when I yell.
- Drink more water. I always feel better when I drink enough water.
- Scrap at least 104 pages for my books this year. Last year I made my goal, but alot were in gift albums.
- Take a family vacation.
- Enroll both kids in some sort of extra-curricular activity this year.
- Have less scrapbook supplies at the end of the year (be a user, not a collector).
- Continue to work on spending more time in church related activities.
I'm sure there are more things I need/should be doing, but these are reasonable goals for me.
Duncan came home on Sunday -- he had a marvelous time with Dot Dot. He demolished his art treasure chest from Aunt Susan & Uncle John -- used every bit of it up. He got to spend Saturday with Susan & John's other nephews -- Hunter & Blake.
Charles and I had a chance to get out and see a movie on Sunday -- The Chronicles of Narnia. It was good -- I'm so glad we went to the 1pm show -- the theater was a zoo by 3:45! We got our car back from the body shop, except the sensor which determines if the tailgate is shut properly isn't working, so it has a return trip in it's future. I am glad to be done with worrying about someone else's car though. Driving around in an almost brand new car gives me "new car envy" and that is NOT good on my budget.
My Christmas present should arrive via UPS tomorrow, so I'll be looking forward to getting off work. Duncan has his first den meeting of 2006 tomorrow, so it will be a busy day.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Happy New Year!
Wow, it's 2006 already. We had a very quiet New Year's Eve. Connor watch "March of the Penguins" (in from Netflix) all day long, but went to bed gracefully at 7:30 p.m. We had steaks and baked potatoes for dinner, then watched some Law & Order: CI episodes. I had menstrual cramps really bad so I went to bed at 11:00 and slept until this morning. How utterly boring. =)
Hope everyone has a wonderful New Year. Duncan comes home from Dot Dot's today, so we'll start our year off right.
Hope everyone has a wonderful New Year. Duncan comes home from Dot Dot's today, so we'll start our year off right.
Friday, December 30, 2005
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Word for the Week
Ever had a new word just tickle your funny bone? Here's one that struck me recently off a friend's blog:
KAFUFFLE means:
Main Entry: com·mo·tion Pronunciation: k&-'mO-sh&nFunction: nounEtymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin commotion-, commotio, from commovEre1 : a condition of civil unrest or insurrection2 : steady or recurrent motion3 : mental excitement or confusion4 a : an agitated disturbance : TO-DO b : noisy confusion : AGITATION
KAFUFFLE means:
Main Entry: com·mo·tion Pronunciation: k&-'mO-sh&nFunction: nounEtymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin commotion-, commotio, from commovEre1 : a condition of civil unrest or insurrection2 : steady or recurrent motion3 : mental excitement or confusion4 a : an agitated disturbance : TO-DO b : noisy confusion : AGITATION
Sunday, December 25, 2005
Christmas
Duncan awoke at 5:56 a.m., and just as directed, came and woke us up first (UGH). After unsuccessfully suggesting he go back to sleep for a little bit (ha), we sent him to wake Connor and come back to our room. I went downstairs and got the camera turned on, and then both kids EXPLODED down the hall to the living room.
Duncan truly made my Christmas, he was so excited about every little thing, even the inexpensive crayons in his stocking! Both kids liked everything they got. By 7am they were settled playing with their newfound "loot". Dot arrived around 11:30 with her gifts AND gifts from Aunt Susan & Uncle John... so we had another round of "Christmas". My children are truly blessed by all the people who care for them and do for them.
At 12:30 my precooked turkey dinner was hot, and we sat down to eat. Both kids were too excited to eat, so we let them leave the table -- I wasn't going to fight over a clean plate on Christmas. Poor Sassy had trouble manuevering the house with all the stuff strewn everywhere.
At 4:00 my happy little elf and his grandmother headed back to Charlotte for the week. I miss him alot, but sometimes it helps to have some peace and quiet -- at least the kids can't fight in two separate cities. Connor enjoys his Mommy/Daddy time when Duncan is away.
Duncan truly made my Christmas, he was so excited about every little thing, even the inexpensive crayons in his stocking! Both kids liked everything they got. By 7am they were settled playing with their newfound "loot". Dot arrived around 11:30 with her gifts AND gifts from Aunt Susan & Uncle John... so we had another round of "Christmas". My children are truly blessed by all the people who care for them and do for them.
At 12:30 my precooked turkey dinner was hot, and we sat down to eat. Both kids were too excited to eat, so we let them leave the table -- I wasn't going to fight over a clean plate on Christmas. Poor Sassy had trouble manuevering the house with all the stuff strewn everywhere.
At 4:00 my happy little elf and his grandmother headed back to Charlotte for the week. I miss him alot, but sometimes it helps to have some peace and quiet -- at least the kids can't fight in two separate cities. Connor enjoys his Mommy/Daddy time when Duncan is away.
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Good News, Good Food, and OK News
We travelled to visit my parents on 12/23 -- it had been too long since we had visited. Since the car wasn't supposed to be finished until late today, we took the rental car up. The kids behaved pretty well in the car.
We really enjoyed our visit -- other than a couple of small tiffs, the kids behaved well. They enjoyed the presents my parents got them for Christmas, enjoyed the food (Connor especially enjoyed the pumpkin roll, see the photo blog), and were sorry to head home. The only "OK" news of the day was they had found more damage on the car, and it wouldn't be ready til next Wednesday at least.
So we headed home... Duncan was awake well past 1am... UGH.
Saturday brought a day of playing with new toys, and the Christmas eve service at church. The church does a “children’s sermon” and invites the kids to come down and sit with the minister and hear a sermon directed at them. They did the story of Christmas, and invited the kids to act it out. None of the little girls volunteered to be Mary, so Connor volunteered! Baby Jesus was the pastor’s 13 week old granddaughter, his first grandchild. Duncan was a shepherd.
They also had communion, Duncan announced (Ioud enough for ½ the church to hear) that he was hungry and could he have a bigger piece?! Out of the mouths of babes.
They were tired, and luckily passed out early so Santa's elves could finish their Christmas eve preparations. We finally got in bed about 11:30 p.m.
We really enjoyed our visit -- other than a couple of small tiffs, the kids behaved well. They enjoyed the presents my parents got them for Christmas, enjoyed the food (Connor especially enjoyed the pumpkin roll, see the photo blog), and were sorry to head home. The only "OK" news of the day was they had found more damage on the car, and it wouldn't be ready til next Wednesday at least.
So we headed home... Duncan was awake well past 1am... UGH.
Saturday brought a day of playing with new toys, and the Christmas eve service at church. The church does a “children’s sermon” and invites the kids to come down and sit with the minister and hear a sermon directed at them. They did the story of Christmas, and invited the kids to act it out. None of the little girls volunteered to be Mary, so Connor volunteered! Baby Jesus was the pastor’s 13 week old granddaughter, his first grandchild. Duncan was a shepherd.
They also had communion, Duncan announced (Ioud enough for ½ the church to hear) that he was hungry and could he have a bigger piece?! Out of the mouths of babes.
They were tired, and luckily passed out early so Santa's elves could finish their Christmas eve preparations. We finally got in bed about 11:30 p.m.
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Better Mood, Better Luck
God bless the Ford Body Shop -- they've dealt with this adjuster before, like her about as much as I do (NOT!), and said we could just sign the check over to them to pay for the car. Phew.
Thank you so much for all the blog comments from my bad mood swing -- blogging is like group therapy -- I feel much more normal now. I did find two more deals for Connor's Christmas and am feeling better about that, and spent less than $20 to do it. Charles was a sweetheart when I told him how upset I was about not having stuff under the tree for him -- I now have two gifts (small) for him, and some ideas he helped me with to make it look better for the kids (homemade gift certificates for certain things).
So maybe this elf has stretched her dough (or lack thereof) a little further. I got off work today at noon and don't have to be back until Tuesday. We are spending the day tomorrow with my parents celebrating Christmas.
Thank you so much for all the blog comments from my bad mood swing -- blogging is like group therapy -- I feel much more normal now. I did find two more deals for Connor's Christmas and am feeling better about that, and spent less than $20 to do it. Charles was a sweetheart when I told him how upset I was about not having stuff under the tree for him -- I now have two gifts (small) for him, and some ideas he helped me with to make it look better for the kids (homemade gift certificates for certain things).
So maybe this elf has stretched her dough (or lack thereof) a little further. I got off work today at noon and don't have to be back until Tuesday. We are spending the day tomorrow with my parents celebrating Christmas.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
I just can't win!
Our money from the insurance company to pay for the car repairs arrived
today, payable to Paul Fodel. Very nice, but Charles Fodel is who was in
the accident!!! Now I have to HOPE that the bank will take the check and
we can get this straightened out. I'm so very annoyed and stressed!
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Mood Swing From H-E-L-L
OK, all of a sudden I got hit with a major downer mood swing. I'm staring at my dining room table covered in unfinished Christmas presents, I don't feel "done" shopping but my shopping money is definitely "done"... I haven't wrapped the first gift... why do moods like this have to happen? I'm kind of the barometer for my family mood -- I have to be "up" so everyone else can be "up"... Yet all of a sudden I want to go crawl in bed and stay there.
Duncan came home from school sick today -- complained of a sore throat, and his chest was kind of junky. His inhaler helped some, but it hyped him up and he's been a real pistol today. Tomorrow is his school party so I have to go wrap the gift for that exchange, and Charles is making cupcakes. Do you know I have absolutely NOTHING under the tree for Charles? The item I was supposed to get him from his mom is backordered, won't be here before Christmas, and I *thought* we were gonna do our Christmas later, but my husband decided to buy for me without telling me, so now I have gifts under the tree and he doesn't. I feel so stinking guilty. Dot helped Santa get Duncan a new bike, so Duncan's Santa is going to be HUGE compared to Connor's... and I don't have the $$ to even it up. I just wish it was 12/26.
Duncan came home from school sick today -- complained of a sore throat, and his chest was kind of junky. His inhaler helped some, but it hyped him up and he's been a real pistol today. Tomorrow is his school party so I have to go wrap the gift for that exchange, and Charles is making cupcakes. Do you know I have absolutely NOTHING under the tree for Charles? The item I was supposed to get him from his mom is backordered, won't be here before Christmas, and I *thought* we were gonna do our Christmas later, but my husband decided to buy for me without telling me, so now I have gifts under the tree and he doesn't. I feel so stinking guilty. Dot helped Santa get Duncan a new bike, so Duncan's Santa is going to be HUGE compared to Connor's... and I don't have the $$ to even it up. I just wish it was 12/26.
Tag
OK, I got tagged with this one TWICE, once from Courtney, once from Annette. I'm gonna respond to the first one right now.
The rules for this particular meme are as follows:
Remove the blog name in the top spot from the following list and bump everyone up one place. Then add yourself to the bottom slot.
1. Running2Ks
2. Queen of Spain
3. Kdubs
4. Courtney
5. Carolyn
Then you get to select five people to pass the love on to.
1. Mary
2. Julie B.
3. Felicia
4. Bonni
5. Deanna
Now, on to the questions!
What were you doing 10 years ago? About to have my future husband move in with me.
What were you doing one year ago? Off of work for the whole week for Christmas
Five snacks you enjoy:
The rules for this particular meme are as follows:
Remove the blog name in the top spot from the following list and bump everyone up one place. Then add yourself to the bottom slot.
1. Running2Ks
2. Queen of Spain
3. Kdubs
4. Courtney
5. Carolyn
Then you get to select five people to pass the love on to.
1. Mary
2. Julie B.
3. Felicia
4. Bonni
5. Deanna
Now, on to the questions!
What were you doing 10 years ago? About to have my future husband move in with me.
What were you doing one year ago? Off of work for the whole week for Christmas
Five snacks you enjoy:
- Chocolate
- Chips
- Chocolate
- Chocolate
- Chocolate
- Devil Went Down to Georgia
- Buzz Buzz
- Stray Cat Strut
- Jump Jive N Wail
- Another One Bites the Dust
- Be debt free!
- Make my parents debt free (I think they're close but...)
- Prepay both kids college
- Send my husband back to college to finish
- Hire a maid and a gardener!
- Diet Coke
- Too much computer time
- I yell
- I'm messy
- I'd rather do it myself than let someone help
- Computer time
- taking pictures
- reading
- scrapbooking
- listening to music
- Underwire bras
- tight clothing
- clip on sunglasses (too heavy)
- chokers
- socks with toes
- My computer!
- my camera
- my quickutz
- my DVR
- deck of cards
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Something Went Right
I felt so sorry for Charles last night -- he hit a moment where he was really open and honest, and told me he felt Dr. T (his pychiatrist) had let him down, as he told Charles that "if anything happens, just call me." Well we had a moment of brilliance, and called the emergency number for Dr. T's office. He wasn't on call, but Dr. M was, and he called in a refill on Charles' mood stabilizer. Whew. He still says he feels out of sorts, but at least we're back on track for 30 days.
The kids have been a pistol this weekend -- Connor has been Mr. Hyperactivity, egging his brother on, bouncing balls OFF PEOPLE, just plain obnoxious. Yes I know, this is my golden child I'm referring to.
Check out the photo blog, I've updated it this weekend as Susan informed me I had taken the sparkle out of her morning routine as there was nothing new to look at last week.
I have handmade Christmas presents spread all over the dining room table drying. ACK -- I'm suddenly really behind. With all the stress of the car etc this week I just haven't gotten to it. Guess I need to get on the ball huh?
The kids have been a pistol this weekend -- Connor has been Mr. Hyperactivity, egging his brother on, bouncing balls OFF PEOPLE, just plain obnoxious. Yes I know, this is my golden child I'm referring to.
Check out the photo blog, I've updated it this weekend as Susan informed me I had taken the sparkle out of her morning routine as there was nothing new to look at last week.
I have handmade Christmas presents spread all over the dining room table drying. ACK -- I'm suddenly really behind. With all the stress of the car etc this week I just haven't gotten to it. Guess I need to get on the ball huh?
Saturday, December 17, 2005
More to Come
More to come today -- Charles' mood stabilizer medication prescription ran out, and his
F*%^ing psychiatrist's receptionist won't let the doctor know we need a refill. Our family physician won't touch it, so he is REALLY out of kilter. We have a message in to the therapist for help, our last resort is to take him to the emergency room, but that's a $75 fee on top of the prescription. UGH. And I'm busy working on the last few handmade Christmas presents. More tonite!
F*%^ing psychiatrist's receptionist won't let the doctor know we need a refill. Our family physician won't touch it, so he is REALLY out of kilter. We have a message in to the therapist for help, our last resort is to take him to the emergency room, but that's a $75 fee on top of the prescription. UGH. And I'm busy working on the last few handmade Christmas presents. More tonite!
Friday, December 16, 2005
Name 5 Talents/Gifts that you have
Found this on Meghan's blog --
.
Name 5 talents/gifts that you have.
1. Even though I've never kissed the blarney stone, I have the gift of
gab -- I can talk to anybody!
2. I have an amazing memory for trivial details -- my dad refers to it as
a "steel trap".
3. It's sounds so cliche (because we are all listing it), but I'd say I'm
crafty -- I've enjoyed cross stitch and scrapbooking.
4. Self-confidence -- when I can channel that I feel I do amazing things.
5. A strong family -- sometimes when everything else fails me, the love &
support of my family always carry me through.
How about you guys?
Monday, December 12, 2005
Which of Santa's Reindeer are you?
Stolen from Courtney's Blog!
| You Are Cupid |
 Why You're Naughty: You've caused so much drama, all the reindeers aren't speaking to each other. Why You're Nice: You have a knack for playing matchmaker. You even hooked Rudolph up! |
My Weekend -- WHEW
I hope it's a long while before we have as many things to do in a single
weekend as we did this one. I'm sick, tired, and drained. On the
bright side, I think the kids had a marvelous time, which was the whole
reason for all of it.
Saturday morning bright and early Duncan & I headed out to the Pinewood
Derby Race. His car didn't place or anything, but it looked good, and he
was such a good sport -- I'm so proud. His buddy Comfort placed 5th
overall out of 116 cars! GO COMFORT! The fastest cars averaged
around 2.96 seconds. It was a long morning -- I think Duncan's
favorite part was doughnuts for breakfast and pizza for lunch. Since
Charles and I were up til almost 2 a.m. working on his car, and then I was
up again at 6:30 a.m., I was exhausted by this time. My mother-in-law
(Dot Dot) arrived about 1:00 p.m., and proceeded to lecture Duncan on the
state of his room. Trust me, you don't want to know! He worked on
his room (under LOUD protest) for a while, and then we set out to run some
errands. We made a find at the consignment shop -- long sleeve white
button down shirts for the boys for $4.50 each! Off to Target for long
underwear for the parade, and hats & gloves for both boys. We got home
around 4:30, and I was REALLY tired then. I made spaghetti & garlic bread
for dinner.
Fast forward to Sunday morning. I had three hampers of kid's clothes to
hang up between the two boys. I purged some size 6/7 ones out of
Duncan's closet into Connor's. We put both boys in their new (to them)
white shirts & khaki pants for church, and Connor and I left early as he
had a last minute choir rehearsal before services. He did great, except
he wiggles... ALOT. I'll have pictures up SOON on the photo page.
Duncan had a meltdown at home before Connor & I left over shoes -- I wanted
him to wear his white tennis shoes because they blended with the outfit
more. He erupted over this -- he hadn't slept well the night before.
So he arrives at church about 3 minutes before the service starts.
Fortunately, the "choir mom" got him settled, and other than yawning during
their song he did good! It was a nice service, the sermon was about John
the Baptist and "The Message and the Messenger". Lots of music, the
advent candle lighting.. I can't believe it's only two weeks until
Christmas!
We got home from church about 11:50, and I had just under two hours until
Duncan & I had to be at the parade spot. I made an ugly discovery when
he and I went to get him dressed -- he's GROWN! He's now 4' 4.5" and 63
lbs -- I knew he had put on a little in the waist, but I wasn't prepared
for every pair of pants he owns to show his ankles!!! GAK! Needless
to say Santa is going to have to bring Duncan some pants at least. His
long sleeve shirts hit him about 1/2 way between his wrist and his elbow.
This all fit great two months ago! I know it's normal for kids to have
growth spurts, but this is the first time in a LONG while that Duncan has
popped out of his clothes mid-season. So we got him into the thermal
underwear, a pair of khakis, and his uniform shirt. We bundle up and go
dashing off to Lewisville. It was colder than a dead man's butt Sunday!
I was amazed at how big of a parade it was for a small town -- it lasted
over an hour! We saw Daddy & Connor along our way (Dot watched from the
warmth of her car), Comfort's family, my friend Marcia from work, Mr. Cann
(a prior assistant in Duncan's class) and Mrs. Stock, Duncan & Comfort's
teacher. I'm guessing it was a 2-3 mile walk round trip? Duncan
threw almost 800 pieces of candy to the crowd, and generally had a good
time, but boy were Duncan & Comfort s-l-o-w by the end! I had to laugh
-- Connor rode home w/me, Duncan w/Dot Dot & Charles; Connor was asleep
within 5 minutes of leaving Lewisville! Poor guy, all tuckered out.
I'm such a bad mom, this was their very first parade! I didn't think he
could make it through the White Christmas program at church, so we didn't
go. Dot treated us to McDonald's to let the boys run and play a bit for
supper. Then home, and relax, kind of. Charles is on a Christmas
decorating kick, so he put up the tree last night -- tonight we start
decorating.
At least this week the only thing we have to do after work is fellowship
supper on Wednesday. Then no more obligations until after New Year's.
Tomorrow I take Connor for a speech/language evaluation, but I got time off
from work to do that in the afternoon.
Friday, December 09, 2005
What Have You Done?
Here's another quiz making the rounds!
( ) smoked a cigarette
( ) crashed a friend's car
( ) stolen a car
( X ) been in love
( X ) been dumped
( ) shoplifted
( ) been fired
( X ) been in a fist fight
( ) snuck out of your parents' house
( X ) had feelings for someone who didn't have them back?
( ) gone on a blind date
( X ) lied to a friend
( ) skipped school
( ) seen someone die
( X ) been to Canada
( ) been to Mexico
( X) been on a plane
( ) purposely set a part of yourself on fire
( X ) eaten sushi
( ) been skiing
( X ) met someone from the Internet
( X ) been at a concert
(X) taken painkillers
( ) love someone or miss someone right now
(X ) laid on your back and watched cloud shapes go by
( X ) made a snow angel
( ) had a tea party
( X ) flown a kite
( X ) built a sand castle
( X ) gone puddle jumping
( X ) played dress up
( X ) jumped into a pile of leaves
( X ) gone sledding
( X ) cheated while playing a game
( X ) been lonely
( X ) fallen asleep at work/school
( ) used a fake ID
( X ) watched the sun set
( X ) felt an earthquake
( X ) slept beneath the stars
( X ) been tickled
( X ) been robbed
( X ) been misunderstood
( X ) petted a reindeer/goat/kangaroo/deer
( X ) won a contest
( X ) run a red light/stop sign
( ) been suspended from school
( ) had braces
( X ) felt like an outcast/third person
( X) eaten a whole pint of ice cream in one night
( X ) had déjà vu
( X ) danced in the moonlight
( ) liked the way you looked
( X ) witnessed a crime
( X) questioned your heart
( X ) been obsessed with post-it notes
( X ) squished mud through your bare feet
( X ) been lost
( ) been on the opposite side of the country
( X) swam in the ocean
( X ) felt like dying
( X ) cried yourself to sleep
( ) played cops and robbers
( X ) recently colored with crayons
( ) sang karaoke
( X ) paid for a meal with only coins
( X ) done something you told yourself you wouldn't
( ) made prank phone calls
( X ) laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose
( X ) caught a snowflake on your tongue
( X ) danced in the rain
( X ) written a letter to Santa Claus
( X ) been kissed under the mistletoe
( ) watched the sun rise with someone you care about
( X ) blown bubbles
( ) made a bonfire on the beach
( ) crashed a party
( X ) gone roller-skating
( X ) had a wish come true
( ) jumped off a bridge
Derby Jitters and Paint Woes
OK, we're about to race a plain green car! We tried using the metallic
paints last night and the stencils to put the dragon on the car...
EWWWWWWWW! So I painted over it all in green, again, and it's home
drying. There is a nasty glob of paint on one side -- I couldn't get it
off with the exacto knife, so if Charles doesn't get it off today I'll be
sanding right when I get home. UGH! We have to be there by 8:00 a.m.
tomorrow for check-in -- we're not ready! Charles has promised for two
weeks to help Duncan sand the axles... is that done yet? NOOOOOOO!
Enough of that panic... it's been a long week already. I had to travel
to Charlotte for class on Monday -- left at 6:10 a.m., got home at 6:30
p.m. Tuesday afternoon Duncan had his quarterly visit with the
psychiatrist for a medication check. We upped his ADHD medication a bit
-- he's had NO impulse control lately. He's also gained 7 lbs since
September, up to 63 lbs. While that is a good thing, it's also a sign
his meds aren't working as well. The note from school on Wednesday said
he showed a remarkable improvement in the afternoon, which is normally his
worst time of day. He was roaming the house in the wee hours last night
though, so let's hope that doesn't continue. Wednesday I was in meetings
most of the day at work, and I had stayed up late Tuesday night to finish
up some work. My neck started bothering me on Monday -- it always gets
stiff and achy when the weather gets cold. Everyone at work is trying to
tell me it's in my head, "tension". Thank you very much, but I'm positive
it's in my NECK!
One of my reality TV shows ended this week -- America's Next Top Model.
I wanted Kim to win, but I wasn't disappointed with Nicole. Last night
Survivor went down to four people, it finishes up on Sunday! What will
I watch now?! I understand Project Runway on Bravo is gearing up again,
so maybe I'll have that to watch.
I had to give back the dining room table this week -- I've had it covered
with scrapping stuff etc working on Christmas cards and gifts. I'm not
done with that either. Besides the Pinewood Derby tomorrow, both kids
are singing in church on Sunday. Connor is singing "Go Tell it on the
Mountain"; I'm not sure what Duncan is singing.
So anyway... that's my busy week so far, and it's not over yet. One final
note... one of my scrapping/blog buddies had a death in the family this
week, very close to her heart. You know who you are -- please know I'm
thinking of you and your family this week!
Thursday, December 08, 2005
More Quiz Nonsense
Harry PotterYou crave your own knight in shining armour: the
guy who will swoop in and save you, and manage
to be a sweet lover and good dad all at the
same time. You are the girl he's fighting for!
Who is your Harry Potter love match? (for girls)
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Sunday, December 04, 2005
An Interesting Mail Day
We forgot to get the mail out of the mailbox yesterday, so we got it this morning. Charles had his accident Wednesday morning; the mail came Saturday. Imagine my surprise to find letters from 7 different lawyers addressed to Charles, four lawyers addressed to Connor, and 4 chiropracters! We now have 5 copies of the accident report! Thanks guys! Sheesh, what a bunch of vultures. All this because of a rear end fender bender? We have more information on whiplash and neck injuries now than anyone could possibly need! Oh, and less I forget, one letter addressed to me, the car owner, from the Ford dealership bodyshop!
No wonder insurance costs so much!
No wonder insurance costs so much!
Saturday, December 03, 2005
It's Beginning to Feel Alot like Chistmas!
ad·vent ( P ) Pronunciation Key (dvnt)n.
1. The coming or arrival, especially of something extremely important: the
advent of the computer.
2. Advent The liturgical period preceding Christmas, beginning in Western
churches on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and in Eastern churches in
mid-November, and observed by many Christians as a season of prayer, fasting,
and penitence.
3. Christianity. The coming of Jesus at the Incarnation.
4. Christianity. See Second Coming.
Then this morning we went to church again and had breakfast with Santa! My kids got to do more crafts (Duncan was in 7th heaven!) and talk with the big man himself. The "elf" in the pictures is the christian education director at church. Connor was the very first one to jump into Santa's lap!
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