Friday

WooHOOO -- it's almost the weekend!  It was 89 degrees yesterday at lunchtime... I am so not ready for summer just yet.  The guy who works on our trees came by last night to look at some work we need doing, and by the time we talked in the yard for 20 minutes or so (after 7pm mind you) I was pouring sweat.  Having my neck knotted up and my head pounding didn't help things though.  On the bright side, he's going to hang a new tree swing for us when he does the work, so that will help things too.  Duncan has really missed the swing -- the rope is so frayed we won't let him on it, and we really wanted a "professional" opinion as to whether the branch would still hold him.

Dexter continues his role as King-of-the-Jungle... our neighbor told us last night he's seen Dexter with rabbits, and he left a bird spread over the front lawn for us to view this morning.    He is very male, and very feline.   Then he comes inside and purrs until you scratch beneath his chin for a while.

We actually have a busy weekend ahead.  The county is doing a "Family Field Day" tomorrow, and I enrolled our family to go.  You have to complete at least five events as a family, and then they feed you lunch and have a chance to win prizes.  I hope we have a good time.  A few of the prizes would be really nice -- a one year membership to a tae kwon do place, a basketball goal, and the grand pirze is a 4 day cruise for four (guess which prize I'd like!).  

On a health note... it's not been a good couple of days for headaches or neck problems.  Today I'm on the max dose of my medicine that my doctor allows... no pain at the moment but I'm pretty loopy.  My friend "Frog Legs" got us started in this eight week health challenge so I've started wearing a pedometer to see how much i'm actually moving.  I'm pleased to see it's more than I thought, and disappointed to see where I SHOULD be.   So we'll tackle that one step at a time.

Helicopter Moms

Go read it. . And if you are still interested, here's more:

It makes you think....

Tuesday Quickie

Well, I thought I would to be able to post that I am headache free for the first time in over a month... we are close but not quite there. I spent alot of the holiday weekend being lazy because my head hurt. Do check out my photo blog -- part of my cleaning uncovered the missing Tiger pictures I had promised to share, and they are now posted on it.

This is our first week in AGES with nothing to do any night this week -- wooHOO. I could get used to this. It won't last long though. Next week Duncan & I have to go for our swimming test for scout camp on Monday evening, and then we are hitting up Chuck E Cheese with another family to celebrate the ending of the school year Wednesday night (school ends Friday 6/8). The kids won't know about this until we get in the car to go or they will bug us to DEATH about it. I'm also attending field day for both kids next week. The week after Duncan & I head to scout camp, as part of a group of 17 scouts and 9 parents. THAT should be interesting!!

I'll post more later if I get a moment!

Update on Me

OK, enough blog nonsense, I'm sure my readers are ready for some "news".   Thank you so much to all of you for your kind thoughts on my migraine issues.  We started a new drug yesterday, so we'll see how this goes.  For the most part mine aren't crippling, but they sure aren't fun.  I got new glasses last week, bifocals, so I am hoping as I adjust to those it will improve the headache situation.  When I first put them on I thought they had given me someone else's glasses!

We are counting down towards the end of the school year on June 8th.  Connor's soccer finished on 5/16, and I've already signed him up for the fall season.  I am hoping we can work out a half day soccer camp for a week later in the summer to jump start his soccer season next year.  He has gotten his glasses as well, and we have to stay on him to look through them and not over them.  He went back to the ophthalmologist on 5/18, and we have started patching the good eye for 2-3 hrs per day.  He whined ALOT the first few days, but I think we're over the hump.   He goes back to see her for a checkup in early July.

Last weekend was the end of year scout picnic for our pack.   It's hard to believe scouts is over for the year.  We have resident camp coming up in two weeks for Duncan & I, and then we're done until September.  He has been asking about taking karate again.  Last time he was so disruptive to the class we finally had to pull him from it.  There is a new class in town specifically for ADHD kids, but it's pricey, so I've got to ponder that one.  The kids also finished their swim lessons last night.  We are trying to get them in another session this summer, but so far every single session we'd have to miss at least 25% of, so we haven't signed up yet.  I dropped off the forms last night to enroll them in vacation bible school at church for the last week of June.  They had such a wonderful time last summer, so it was a must-do activity for us this year.

We made a trip to Virginia to visit my parents last weekend, and got to see their new house.  My kids really enjoyed seeing them and their cousins.  I enjoyed seeing their cousins too -- they have grown so much!!  Hopefully I'll get the group photo of all six posted on my photo blog this weekend, but I need to double check with my brother and his wife if posting that is OK first.

Dexter seems fully recovered from the tail bite, his coat is weed-free again, and he is really loving the summer weather here.  I kind of miss the winter days when he was inside more, but he seems very happy.

Anyone going to CKC in Charlotte, NC in August?  I'm really looking forward to that, I've signed up for quite a few classes this year.  Last year my favorite classes were from Quick Quotes, so I'm working on finishing up the last of those so I can prove to Michelle (the instructor) that I actually completed them.  I have three QQ classes this year as well!

Blog Nonsense -- Blame Felicia

1. Yourself? Outstanding
2. Your boyfriend/girlfriend? married
3. Your hair? my best feature
4. Your mother? feisty
5. Your father? Daddy
6. Your favorite thing? my camera and/or my computer
7. Your dream last night? none
8. Your favorite drink? diet coke
9.Your dream car? Mercedes
10. The room you're in right now? den
11. Your fear? snakes
12. What you want to be in 10 years?
13. Muffins? chocolate chip
14. Who you hung out with last night? Charles
15. What you're not? shy
16. Time? 2:28 p.m.
17. What you're wearing? shorts
18. Your favorite weather? Fall
19. Your favorite book? romance
20. Last thing you ate? triscuits
21. Your worst vice? talking too much
22. Your best friend is? Missy
23. What you're thinking about right now? scout picnic
24. Your car? Odyssey
25. Your life? slammed

Yet MORE Blog Nonsense -- Blame Melissa, AGAIN!

I am a Sunflower What Flower Are You?

Blog Nonsense - Blame Melissa

Your results:
You are Spider-Man

Spider-Man 80% Catwoman 60% Robin 57% Green Lantern 55% Iron Man 55% Superman 50% Hulk 45% Wonder Woman 42% Batman 40% The Flash 40% Supergirl 37%

You are intelligent, witty, a bit geeky and have great power and responsibility.

Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz

Dexter's Impersonation of a Poodle

Yep, a poodle. Charles says I'm insulting HIS cat. Dexter came in Friday morning and complained when I rubbed his tail -- further inspection found a swollen spot about 1/2 way up it. Off to the vet he went, to discover something had bitten him and his tail had started to abscess. So we are now doing antibiotics. In order to drain the abscess, they had to shave most of his tail. I told him this is what happens when you "zig" when you should "zag". We think from the bite marks it was a rodent -- he normally leaves "presents" fairly intact, but there was a shredded rodent on the front porch that morning. It was either that or the garden snake he killed the day before, except the bites were too far apart to be that snake.

Ah well, he's feeling much better and did his best fe-lion impression in the backyard yesterday while tormenting a chipmunk.

Happy Anniversary to ME

11 years ago today I became a Mrs.   Charles arranged for me to attend an all-day crop on Saturday at my favorite scrapbook store, and we are going out to dinner tonite WITHOUT the kids.

I wish I felt better.  Monday I started my first full blown migraine, although I didn't know it at the time.  Lights flashed around my eyes, bad blurry vision, miserable headache.  My massage Monday night helped alot.  I was tired Tuesday, but kind of oblivious as I was on a field trip with Duncan.  Wednesday the blurry vision started again along with a headache, and I was dizzy and stumbling.  YUCK.  Soooo, I've been to the doctor, had a CT scan just to make sure it wasn't anything else, and have some meds for tension headaches to tide me over til I see the doctor again on 5/16.  Lucky me!

I'll post more about our field trip to the Biltmore House in Asheville NC when I feel a bit better.

Blog Nonsense - Blame Melissa

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

What a Week

Have you been to my photo blog lately? Go see my Monday in pictures! Tuesday my friend J. lost her brother after a long illness, so we spent quite a bit of time talking on the phone. Wednesday Connor had a physical (he's normal), an OT appointment, and then soccer. Thursday I tried to go to Charlotte for work and turned around after the interstate was closed due to a wreck and fuel spill.

Today I worked a 9 hr day to make up for time missed due to my blustery day Monday. Connor had an eye appointment and after YEARS of me saying I thought something wasn't quite right, he now has to have glasses. He's farsighted, and a HUGE difference between the eyes, so if the glasses doesn't correct it he'll have to be patched for a while. Duncan threw a hissy fit that he was "the only child in this family allowed to have glasses." We're also in the middle of a medication change for Duncan, and a dosage change for Connor's medicine. I was so tired last night I went to bed at 7:45 p.m. -- I still haven't watched Survivor from last night.

Tonite I tried something new -- Dream Dinners. I am so tired of "nothing to eat" or "nothing to fix", despite a jammed freezer & fridge of food that I've resorted to bribing to get us eating better. Tonite I made Beef Tips for the crockpot, stuffed shells, and an oven roasted pork. I'm ready to eat now!

Back from camping in the rain

We had good weather until the smores came out at the campfire. We were one of 8 families that braved it in the rain -- we slept dry and comfortable. I got some great pictures from the trip, I'll write more later when my legs have un-stiffened!

Off to Camp in the Rain

Duncan and I are headed out shortly to go camp with the scouts -- a day program at Camp Hanes made especially for the scouts. We'll eat dinner and then camp overnight. On a bright note, the chance of rain has dropped from 100% to 80%, so I'm optimistic.

See you tomorrow!

Quick Update

And STILL I get complaints about lack of pictures -- what a tough crowd!! Here ya go... more!

It's been a long week so far -- we've been very short staffed at work, Connor has croup again, we had tons of rain yesterday, and I'm tired -- I miss my vacation naps!

Vacation 2007

I tell you, some customers are just never satisfied. So here ya go, more vacation pictures.

We're Back....

Vacation was great -- we had good weather until the last day, and everyone had a wonderful time. Dexter missed us I think, though he was well taken care of while we were gone. I have tons of pictures from vacation but I'll post a teaser here til I get more time...

Blog Nonsense - Blame Julie

Your Dominant Intelligence is Logical-Mathematical Intelligence

You are great at finding patterns and relationships between things.Always curious about how things work, you love to set up experiments.You need for the world to make sense - and are good at making sense of it.You have a head for numbers and math ... and you can solve almost any logic puzzle. You would make a great scientist, engineer, computer programmer, researcher, accountant, or mathematician.

What Kind of Intelligence Do You Have?

Sunday Ramblings

I've just spent the last hour catching up on other people's blogs, so I figured I'd better leave something for my readers, just in case!

We had a picnic at the church playground on Saturday with our friend Lisa & her kids -- her hubby Bob is working insane hours lately so they have time on their hands. The kids have really enjoyed the nice weather over the past few days and are actually ASKING to spend time outside. Dexter of course is outside from before dawn til after dark and loving it, coming in only to eat and drink during the day. Last night Charles had to pet both Dexter and Turbo outside before Dexter would come in.

Didn't do a whole lot today -- Charles took Connor to the park for a few hours (Duncan didn't want to go) and then I went to a scout parent meeting tonite -- Duncan has the opportunity to go to resident scout camp for 4 days this summer, and this was the preliminary meeting. I'm looking forward to it, mostly. I will be going too, since Beth needs one adult for every 5 kids. I'll have to get Duncan's clothes & gear pulled together over the course of the spring, but he should have a good time.

We leave on vacation next Saturday -- I have done NOTHING to start packing yet, but I am soo ready to go. No computers (mostly a good thing), and just time to relax and play. I promise I will post again before we leave!

Tuesday

I love my new van!!!  I love my new van!!  I think my husband is unhappy that I've claimed it for my drive-to-work car, but I love my new van!   Even the kids were unhappy about being shuttled to the bus stop in the old car.  Ah well.....  we've been a one car family for 6+ years, so I am really enjoying my independence again.

Did I mention Dexter has been a bad boy and lost his collar last week?   He hasn't brought me any more furry presents lately either.  We did get a laugh though -- he plays alot with the neighbor's cat Turbo when he's outside (Turbo cries to go out when Dexter comes in his yard)... well Sunday Turbo must not have been able to find Dexter outside because Turbo came and sat in OUR window.  The kids got quite the kick out of that.

We went to Charlotte this past weekend to show Dot the new van.   While we were there we got to go see not one but TWO movies -- "300" and "Ghost Rider".   I liked them both, but Ghost Rider was more fun.   Charles liked them both and is out shopping for the soundtracks to the movies.   "300" is pretty graphic in it's fighting scenes, but I'd see both again!

We have been working with Connor on some behavior issues since January, and had made alot of progress.   Well in the last week or so we've had a relapse.  The psychologist warned us this would happen, and told us simply to go back to what worked to fix it in the first place -- but I'm so frustrated!!    His teacher says he is making slow improvement on the ADHD issues at school as well.

I know today is the first day of spring, but we are so busy in spring I feel like summer is around the corner...  we have three weekends with no plans before Memorial Day -- EEK!    There are two scout camping trips (one me & Duncan, one family), vacation, a card-making class for me, scout end-of-year picnic... it boggles the mind.

Friday!!

What a week!   Connor had a his first day of spring soccer on Wednesday -- he's got a new coach this time and I like her.  He was determined to be the goalie (they don't have goalies in his age group) but he had a great time.  I got my "snack mom" duties out of the way, and it was a very pleasant evening.  His weekly OT appointment is on Wednesdays as well, so I think he will be sleeping well on Wednesday nights!  

Did I mention he had several cavities when he was at the dentist a couple of weeks ago?  They wanted to refer us to a pediatric dentist here in town.  They called Wednesday and had a cancellation so we went yesterday.  OMG - he needs serious dental work... I'm talking well into four figures!!!  And they need the entire fee UP FRONT to even schedule it.   So... I'm busy studying our finances figuring out where to squeeze that out.

Speaking of Connor and OT... I bought him a weighted blanket to use at home (he needs the pressure)... well apparently he has been annoying our cat lately as the cat decided last night to christen it... UGH!!!   So I had to take all the weights out and wash it... I was NOT happy.  It was still damp this morning so I get to spend time tonight inserting all the weights back in the blanket.   Crazy cat -- he lost his collar yesterday.  On a bright note the kids actually went outside and searched the yard for it.  The exercise was good for them.  He (the cat) also has a new trick -- our house is a split level, so my bedroom window is about 1 1/2 stories off the ground rather than two.   Dexter has figured out how to jump up into that window.  He also left mouse #6 on the doorstep yesterday.  He's chasing birds too, but hasn't managed to catch any yet, although I saw a robin turn white yesterday when he got close LOL.

Two weeks from tomorrow we head out to Myrtle Beach for an inexpensive vacation -- just getting away and having some pool, sun, sand and ocean time.  Everyone in the family is looking forward to it.  Well, except maybe for the cat, but he'll just have to get over it.

More news later in the weekend (wink, wink) -- stay tuned!

Wednesday Waaaaaaaaaaaa

I'm in better humor about Monday -- we're just going to have to work through this.  I ordered Duncan and his buddy Comfort an item from scoutstuff.org -- a red vest to sew all their patches on so they can display how much they've done in scouts.

Duncan had his fourth grade writing test yesterday, and got an 80 on it, so we are very proud of him.  End of grade testing is such a big deal with the "No Child Left Behind" legislation.  He has a field trip coming up on 3/29 to the state capitol, so that should be interesting.

Today marks the beginning of spring soccer for Connor.  We had a chinese fire drill the past few days collecting all of his "gear" from wherever it had landed in the house since the fall.  I had to buy him new cleats as his feet had grown.  The whole family is going tonite, so this should be fun.  I have camera ready.

It's a busy scrapping week, not that I've gotten going much yet.   I'm participating in two cyber crops at the moment.  One is on my FriendsThatScrap list, a scrapping Survivor game.  Our challenge this week is to use movie, play or song titles as our layout titles.   Also going on is the Winter Blahs Crop over at Scrap Addict.  I'm hoping to get cropping in starting tomorrow night.

Our car is in the shop today having brake work done.  Ugh.  At least Charles is taking care of this one so I don't have to.

Bad Day

Why is it when you try so very hard to do the right things by your kids it seems to backfire in your face? I sent Charles to scouts the other night with Duncan -- I just wanted a break, and I knew it wasn't a terribly busy night for that.

Today I talked to our den leader. In the nicest possible way she let me know he had been WILD that night. It isn't entirely his fault -- his medications that keep him somewhat calm wear off by that time of night, and if I give him his nighttime meds sometimes he gets sleepy. Charles was overwhelmed that night so he was no help to her... and she gently hinted that she was wondering if Duncan was the reason why some of the kids in our den hadn't been showing up. It made me feel about an inch tall. I'm sitting here sobbing but I need to get this OUT. It really makes me rethink scouts... for both kids. Duncan isn't average, and he never will be, but it's so frustrating to be made to feel like you're hurting other's enjoyment of an activity (note, I'm frustrated at other parents, not the den leader). Now I'm torn -- do I just quietly fade into the background? Do I medicate him during this rough period (he's normally NO fun at all this time of the spring) to get him artificially calm so he doesn't distract from others? How do I bring a second hyperactive child into scouts?

And while I'm annoyed that Charles just doesn't step up and deal with it, in my heart of hearts I know he's not up to it. So then I'm stuck with can I handle both kids without his help???

This is like karate all over for Duncan... he wanted to be there, but it just got to the point where no one could enjoy it with him there in a class. I don't want scouts to be that way for him, I'd rather fade before his feelings get hurt (not that he has noticed so far)... I'm just so hurt, torn, frustrated...

March Already?

Wow... where has the time gone? This one is going to be really short, and I'm sorry about that. I continue to not feel 100%, we're racing around with appointments for Connor, who has croup... we changed pediatricians with alot of drama this week... and work has been busy busy BUSY.

More later, really!

What does your birthdate mean?

Your Birthdate: November 24

You understand people well and are a natural born therapist.A peacemaker, people always seem to get along when you are around.You tend to be a father or mother figure to friends, even to those older than you.You enjoy your role, and you find that you are close to many people. Your strength: Your devotion Your weakness: Reliance on others for happiness Your power color: Lilac Your power symbol: Heart Your power month: June

http://www.blogthings.com/whatdoesyourbirthdatemeanquiz/">What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Tuesday Nothings

Blah.   I hate how I feel in winter.  After my indoor surfing trials, I have now contracted an old fashioned cold -- stuffy head, congested nose, sneezing... I slept most of the weekend away and I still feel under the weather.  Now my right eye is acting like it might be getting pink eye, except the redness and the draining aren't here yet, just the funky itch.  I tried to go back to the gym last night and my knee complained enough that I quit.  Can you tell I'm having fun??!!

I have my stuff to finish the kids' gifts for their classes for Valentine's Day, now I just need to start.  Connor's class is celebrating the 100th day of school this week, so we have special "homework" to do for that as well.  Duncan's blue/gold banquet for scouts is this coming Saturday.  Both kids have field trips this month, and I'm counting the days until taxes are back.

Indoor Surfing is NOT recommended

Got one word to describe it -- OUCH!  I was headed from the kitchen back downstairs and the next thing I know I feel my right leg/knee turn under, my pinky toe scream in pain and OWWWW.   Silly Carolyn!  I'm black and blue between my last two toes where the skin ripped and bled, my foot is tender, and my knee a little swollen and tender.   Shoes are no fun today.  My first thought was daggonit, how am I supposed to workout tomorrow?

Charles did this on other stairs in our house in October 2005; he managed to shatter his big toe, so maybe it's not quite as bad?  We ended up opting not to go to the doctor -- the toes are still in proper alignment, and I'm able to bear weight on it today, although it's not fun.

In better news, I attended Connor's parent/teacher conference on Friday.  She said math is going to be his strength.  He is slightly below grade level on reading due to not knowing as many sight words as he should, and below grade level on writing, but I am hoping some of our testing/interventions will help us on that.  I should see report cards today or tomorrow for both kids.

Thursday Thoughts for 1/25

The Pinewood Derby went very well last weekend.  Duncan finished 2nd in his den, and his buddy Comfort finished first in the den.  I'll post pictures of his car (& his 2nd place ribbon) on the photo blog tomorrow.  He was a good sport, and seemed to enjoy his day.  We race again at the district derby in mid-March.   It really has been a busy scout January -- our den leader asked if one of us could step up and lead two meetings this month, so I volunteered and we earned our "Handyman Activity Pin" over two Tuesdays.  We have next week off, so we are done with scouts until 2/6.

Charles and I are trying to get our exercise habit breathing new life in the new year.  So far I've made it to the gym once/week for three weeks, and this week I've already made it a second time.  I should be really going 3 times/week but we just aren't there yet.  I'm also only doing my strength workout so far, but I'm proud to be getting back there.  My kids love the "Adventure Room" which is the child watch for kids 5-12, so it's a family outing.  Maybe if I get my act together and find our swimsuits we can do the pool too tomorrow.

Speaking of tomorrow, I'm off work for the day.  Connor's parent-teacher conference is tomorrow morning, and with as many problems as we've had with him in school, it's a MUST attend for me.  I get his evaluation back from the psychologist next Wednesday, and then his OT evaluation (for sensory integration problems) is next Thursday.  Next Friday is Charles' birthday, and I'm afraid to confess I haven't done ONE thing about it yet.  Eek!!

Any Top Chef fans out there?  I'm going to be sorry to see this season end.  I was really sad to see Elia eliminated last night, especially in favor of Marcel -- what a little obnoxious twit.   I think Survivor:  Fiji kicks up next week so I won't have a gap in my reality-tv fixes.  I've been taping American Idol so far, but haven't watched it -- I'm not into the horrible singers, I usually start watching either when they get to Hollywood or in the semi-finals.

Everyone ready for Valentine's Day?  My gift boxes that I made for Christmas were such a hit at school I'm getting ready to do a valentine's version.  I've been watching the ads to get my chocolate cheap for them, and my stamp roller came in last night to do the boxes.  I have 30 of them to make between the two kids' classrooms.  So far in consumable supplies, I have $13 (INCLUDING the chocolate), so I'm really pleased with myself.  Now to find the 2 hours to make them!

OK, I think I'm out of things to say for the moment.  I haven't slept well this week, so I am looking forward to a restful weekend!

Thursday Thoughts

WooHOO -- Dexter is using the litter box again!!! He's also now sporting a pretty royal blue collar. So far when we let him out to roam he's coming back in an hour or so when called. We're skeptical about having an indoor/outdoor cat, but he's being pretty stubborn about it. I had to laugh this morning though... we are getting a "wintery mix", mostly snow at the moment. Of course, he was adamant about his outdoor time... until he got out there. He licked the snow... sniffed it... walked around the tree, then hid under the molded slide thing, only peeking his head out to see if he was still getting wet. I think his outside time lasted maybe 5 minutes today? LOL!

Charles is doing well, thank you to those who have asked. HIs finger still has some redness and one hard spot, but otherwise he is very much back to normal. Hopefully that is our last medical emergency for quite a while. I'm afraid Connor might be getting sick though. He's been really irritable and teary lately, and that's normally a sign he doesn't feel well. Only time will tell.

We have a busy weekend coming up -- Duncan's cub scout pack is holding their Pinewood Derby on Saturday morning. Duncan's car this year is done to resemble (as best we can) the transformer Crumblezone. He's getting help from the Uncle of his best scout buddy on it, so hopefully we'll have much better results this year. With 105 boys in the pack, and every car running at least four times, it's going to be a LONG morning.

Sorry I haven't put any new pictures up on the photo blog, but January is just not my best month for feeling well and energy. I promise to try and do better!

Deja Vu?

I feel like I'm living my life over again, this time with Connor.   Have I mentioned how much trouble he has had being quiet, attentive, and in-his-seat at school?  That he's been to the principal's office twice?  Well, I finally took him to the psychologist we see for Duncan, and had an initial meeting.  I explained that I definitely see two of the three ADHD problems (hyperactivity, impulse control, attentiveness), that he's not doing well with social cues and giving people personal space, etc. etc.  He's having an evaluation next Friday, and I get the results on 1/31.  My mommy instinct tells me there is something going on.  Dr. S. said he didn't think we'd find anything severe or profound, but that it would be "kind of grey" rather than black and white.  So we'll see.   I'm also going to take him to see the OT for a Sensory Integration Dysfunction evaluation -- DSI can sometimes present as ADHD.   Last on the list is setting up a private speech/language evaluation.   I just want to know how to help him.

For those who have asked, Charles' finger continues to improve.  He saw our family physician Monday about it.  He has had alot of dead skin peel off the segment that had all the blisters, so it is red and itchy, but definitely continues to improve.  Dexter is on a NEW antibiotic since he still had a UTI.  He continues to pee/poop where it pleases him, so we are very frustrated.   Charles is super cleaning the litterboxes today to see if that will restart him going in the right spot again.  He has also gotten out a few more times, so payday this weekend brings him a collar whether he likes it or not.  Little grey fur beast!

Track Star?

Connor informed us this morning that he did NOT want to be on the track team when he grew up. We pondered this, and he also informed us he knew what the track team did. When we asked he solemnly informed us that the track team "waited until a train was coming and then ran across the track." When we asked him why he didn't want to be on the track team he told us he was afraid he'd get run over.

SA Blog Challenge for week of 1/8

1.  I've come to realize that my life is... whatever I choose to make it.   Therefore there is no one to blame but me.
2.  I am listening to... my kids squabbling.
3.  I talk... constantly.
4.  I love... my family.
5.  My best friends... are all a long distance away.  I don't have a "best" friend here anymore.
6.  Love is... something really hard to explain.
7.  Somewhere, someone is thinking...
8.  I'll always... want to be in the middle of whatever is going on.   I like having "the scoop" and all the details.
9.  The last time I cried was because... Charles didn't get to watch the kids open their Santa Claus this year due to being in the hospital.
10.  My cell phone... was a gift from my friend S., and I just got it in October.   I'm already addicted....
11.  Before I go to bed... I normally check my email.
12.  Right now I am thinking about...
13. Today I...  have day #8 of bad sinus pain.
14.   Tonite I will... go back to the gym for the first time in over a month.
15.   Tomorrow I will be... really busy at work.

SA Blog Challenge for week of 1/1

OK, so I'm a little behind...

2007 is here. What do you want to accomplish for YOURSELF this year? What are your goals or dreams? What are you most looking forward to? Give us a prediction of how you see your life going in 2007.

For me this year? I'd like to get back into a workout routine and maybe drop another 30 lbs. I want to make every holiday special for the kids -- I've already started on Valentine's day! I want to settle both kids down from the wild rumble-tumble boys we have right now. I am looking forward to Connor joining cub scouts, Duncan reaching 5th grade, and getting both in something for fall besides scouts. I want a real family vacation again this year, just us four again. I hope to lose some clutter at my house, gain some control over my life and my moods, and be proactive rather than reactive -- 2005 & 2006 were out of character for me.

How about you?

Happy New Year!

Charles came home on Friday on oral antibiotics. He's still not feeling 100%, but the finger is improving. It has nasty looking blisters on the underside, but they are slowly getting better. Dexter however, is still suffering from his urinary tract problems despite a week of antibiotics, and I believe he will be heading back to the vet.

Let's hope we all start our new year off right... I have more to say but no time this morning, so I'll write again soon!

Light at the end of the tunnel

OK, on day 8, we *think* he's coming home today! The doctor has not been by yet this morning, so we aren't 100% sure. He is sooo bored. I am working from home this morning and then have the rest of the day to deal with getting him home. I'll keep ya posted!

Update on Charles

Charles is concluding day 6 of his hospital stay for cellulitis and a badly infected left middle finger. We still have no word on when he'll go home, other than "when his finger is better". They've got his left arm/hand in a sling to elevate it, and he's bored out of his mind.

My mother-in-law is here with the kids, and I'm working and spending my late afternoons/evenings at the hospital with Charles. I'm ready for him to come home!

Ho Ho Ho

Not. Where to start? Charles woke up last Thursday complaining of an ingrown fingernail. By late morning his whole finger had swollen, and by early afternoon it was past his wrist. He saw our family doctor, who put him on antibiotics and pain meds. By Friday am the streaks were up to his bicep, so we took him to the emergency room. 10 hours later, he was finally admitted. His white blood count (wbc) was 19.1, his blood pressure was low, he had a fever of 100.6, his pulse oxygen was low... he was a pretty sick guy.

Saturday his wbc came down to 16.3, and his blood sugars were at least dropping. Today his wbc is down to 9.8, but his finger is still gnarly. They did an xray of it in the emergency room, and if it's not better tomorrow, they will do an MRI. His finger getting better is the ticket to coming home.

Soooo.... our Christmas is kinda funky. I have yet to wrap the first present, and I have to do "Santa" without help for the first time in my marriage. I really hate that Charles will miss the kids' opening their gifts. We're going to pack up and take his gifts over to the hospital tomorrow morning. It just makes me teary to think of Christmas with him in the hospital.

On a happier note, Duncan did well in the 4th grade Christmas play, and Connor is missing both front teeth just in time for Christmas. Hope everyone has a Happy Holiday!!

Weekday Ramblings

Ugh. It's so hard to go back to work after being off for four days. It has NOT been a good week either. I applied for a promotion on my team and found out Monday I didn't get it. This is not such a bad thing -- I lost out to a retired air force colonel so I know it was a matter of not being the best candidate, but it still feels weird.

School snet an email asking why we hadn't responded to the notes they had sent the past several days, which meant Charles has not been signing the daily stuff. Apparently he has been "forgetting" to give Duncan his medication, which is really a bad thing. So I've had to be the watchdog the last couple of days trying to get them back on track.

The school nurse, whom I despise, has been trying to track us down, about Connor. He had a potty accident at school. I don't understand what the big friggin' deal is, but she sure is hard to get back with, and Charles just pleads embarassment and won't deal with her. So in between constant meetings I've been trying to track her down.

Charles has been sick as a dog this whole week with a flu like virus, so absolutely nothing has gotten done at home this week. We had scouts on Tuesday (rephrase, Duncan & I had scouts), and tonite are meeting family friends at Chuck E Cheese for dinner. Last night should have been fellowship and choir, but Charles wasn't feeling good, Duncan has been a tween jerk lately, and both Charles and I have been disenchanted with church lately. Lately we just haven't felt welcome. So we'll see where that goes.

OK, I got a new boss to train at work, so I need to get moving.

Blog Nonsense - Blame Liz

Thanks Liz!!

Christmas Elf Name My Christmas Elf Name is Get your Christmas Elf Name at JokesUnlimited.com

Happy Turkey Day

Happy Thanksgiving! Ours has been rather quiet and uneventful. The weather here in NC has been rainy and windy the past few days, so we decided not to go to Charlotte due to weather. Instead we stayed home and ate a nice family meal here. The kids are all excited about the new "Foster's Home" movie coming on Cartoon Network in a few minutes.

Tomorrow brings a day off from work, and my birthday. I am headed out to the local scrapbook store for an all day crop tomorrow, so I'll have some peace and quiet away. I really am simply looking forward to a quiet weekend.

Hope this finds you and yours having a great holiday!

TGIF

One way to truly appreciate having teammates is going three days with most of them out of the office -- what a week! I have just stayed tired this week.

We celebrated Connor's sixth birthday on Monday -- he got his presents on Sunday so he could play with them on the ride back from the beach, but then on Monday we took him out for dinner at Macaroni Grill. Tuesday marked the first time in six weeks we had hit the gym -- I was so very tired that night!! Wednesday was the first time since September we made it to church for fellowship (it conflicted with soccer), and it was packed! The kids acted up after dinner and I was tired of disobedience, so I took them home rather than hanging around for choir. Yesterday I had my hair appointment, and then tonite is scouts and a pack meeting. Tired yet? Tomorrow we have a den activity in the morning, then Sunday Duncan has a birthday party to go to, and I have to hit the gym on Saturday.

When will it end?!

Our Thanksgiving plans are up in the air for next week -- we are trying to settle them down so I can grocery shop if needed. Whew -- hopefully I'll be doing more blogging this weekend. See ya!

We're Back....

Home from vacation that is... the first of the pictures are posted over on my photo blog. I only have 554 to sort thru, so it may take a while to find some good ones to post.

A Beautiful Day at the Beach

Today's weather was the reason why I love the beach in the fall -- high of 76 degrees, sunny.... next to no wind.... simply a lovely day. We did the heated outdoor pool in the morning, ate a quick lunch, and spent three hours at the beach in the afternoon, followed by an hour at the pool. Connor's favorite part so far has been "having the waves hit me".... I have taken loads of pictures of him in the waves, I hope they turn out nice.

We have one more full day at the beach -- Charles' gaming buddies are coming down tonite, and they are all gaming tomorrow, so it will be me and the kids. We'll have the same routine, pool in the morning, beach in the afternoon. Frozen pizza for dinner, sandwiches for lunch. Then Sunday we pack up and head home. It has been nice to get away from everything, but I'm starting to be ready for my own bed, and my computer. But the kids have really enjoyed their time, despite a couple days of bad or mediocre weather. We didn't do much (didn't have the $$), but it has been very enjoyable.

Really Short One

OK, so very very sorry -- I had some troubles with blogger, and went about two weeks where I simply could not get logged in. Then.... we left on vacation. I'm actually writing this from the beach. We'll be home on Sunday.

Overall, we are having a good trip -- very low key, eating in the condo, taking advantage of the pool(s) and the beach. We had lousy weather Tuesday, not so great weather Wednesday, but today was lovely, and our last two days are supposed to be good too. Other than having to unexpectedly, in the pouring down rain, put a new alternator and battery in my car, it's been an uneventful trip.

See y'all sunday!

News

My friend P***** had her sixth baby today, a third little girl. I'm so excited for her, it's been a long pregnancy for her.

It's been a busy weekend for us -- we had scouts Friday night, and Duncan got his first award for the year, his fitness pin. Saturday the scouts did a cleanup project, and our kids got their flu shots. Sunday, we crashed and had a quiet day.

Hope this finds everyone well -- we've got another busy week with scouts on Tuesday, soccer on Wednesday, church directory photos on Thursday, and a scout camping trip this coming weekend. New soccer pictures on the photo page!

P.S. We have two people close to us that had surgery today (besides P****), so please hold them in your thoughts that things go smoothly.

"Getting It"

I have maybe four minutes to write this so bear with me today. We had soccer last night. Connor's coach, "Coach Jim", told me a couple of weeks ago that most of these kids have a moment where it clicks, where they "get it" and they improve rapidly. I think we are close to that moment with Connor and alot of the kids.

Connor improved last week, more hustle, more attentiveness, but still little ball contact. He still hasn't "gotten it", but he sure is close. Last night he had more ball contact than I think he's had the whole season so far. I had to laugh, he get the ball, stop it, and then pause to line up his shot. He'd have had four or five goals if he'd just shoot, but I am so very proud of how he played last night. He was charging after the ball, using his feet to stop it, and really hustling. All of the boys on his team are improving. I yelled myself hoarse last night cheering for them.

When I have a moment I'll post some pictures from last night on the photo blog.

Friday Catchup

Let's see... where did I leave off? My dental appointment went surprisingly well -- I was really scared when they have to numb you to clean, but it was a non-event. One quadrant down, two more to go (I don't have to do the fourth one). Dexter sailed through his neutering with flying colors, and has already seemed to chill out a little from our hyper little furrball. He's got a microchip now, and I think he's done on his shots until April. We'll find out at his follow-up visit on 10/17. Scouts went well Tuesday night -- they worked on their citizen pin. This upcoming Saturday they have a community service event, but I'm sending Charles to that with Duncan. Wednesday brought soccer for Connor -- he had alot more hustle (still not really fast but improving), and was a little more attentive.

I feel like I've bled money on the kids this week -- lunch money, book fair $$, field trip $$, scout dues & camping fee... sheesh. At the end of the month are school pictures so it feels like a never ending thing.

Duncan is about 1/3 of the way to his popcorn goal so far. We still have many houses in the neighborhood to hit so hopefully we'll make alot of progress this weekend. He got to go on a field trip to the local fair this week -- his artwork took a second place ribbon this year. I am very proud of my little artist.

Hopefully this finds all my readers well. Have a great weekend!

PMS Sucks

What a moody *itch I've been today!!! I'm hoping it's PMS. With school stuff and scouts I've got an extra $160 in bills this paycheck, and then Dexter goes in to be neutered tomorrow. On top of that, I'm starting $1200 worth of dental work tomorrow that I am NOT looking forward to. Joy oh joy.

Anyone need any boy scout popcorn? We're selling til 10/25....

TGIF!!!

Thank GOODNESS it's Friday! I don't think I had another work day in me this week! It really has been a crazy week. We had another person retire, so we are in scramble mode. I'm carrying the environment support pager until we get someone new in.

Have I mentioned yet that Connor got sent to the principal's office for blowing kisses to everyone in his class? When I asked him what Mr. Rash had to say, he said "Kisses can cause germs!" How cute is that? He's doing slightly better on behavior, but still lots of straight faces and frown-y faces. Sigh.

Dexter had his first vet visit this week, and got an excellent bill of health. He had several vaccinations, got his ears cleaned out (full of dirt), and will get neutered on Tuesday. I don't think he's going to be happy with us Tuesday.

One kid or the other has a field trip for the next three weeks running. The Cub Scout popcorn sale starts tomorrow (let me know if anyone wants to order!), so we will be canvassing our neighborhood tomorrow. Scouts has a camping trip in October as well. The Dixie Classic Fair is in town, and we are trying to decide if we can take the kids to it. Duncan will have art hanging in the fair so I'd like to at least go and see that.

I'm positive I had more to say than this, but I've run out of words at the moment. I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Day 2 of "Where's the mute button???"

Ugh... I'm going to invent a cone of silence for the mornings! This morning Connor thoughtfully "had to show me something" and shoved his brothers dirty underwear in my face. EWWW!

I had alot of trouble sleeping last night -- my shoulder was all knotted up. The icy-hot patch helped (along with the wine cooler) and I finally was able to sleep. Today has soccer on the agenda. It is also my meeting all-day day so I start with an 8am meeting and end with a 3pm meeting and more in between....

See you tomorrow (I hope!)

Peace in the a.m.

Some days I could just mute all three of my "boys"... they make SOOO much noise in the a.m.!!! I like about 30 minutes of quiet to gather myself before my day starts, and they are shouting and making noises... it makes me NUTZ!!

Today is the first den meeting for scouts for Duncan this year. He's in Beth's den again, which I am sooo excited about! He got four belt loops from summer camp at the pack meeting Friday night.

Tomorrow (hopefully) will be Connor's second soccer game -- we got rained out last week and he was disappointed. Duncan will attend choir tomorrow night, and then Connor's group sings in church on Sunday. Thursday will be an "at home" night for us which I am looking forward to. Survivor has started on tv again so I have my priorities straight on that subject LOL!

Latest Blog Nonsense

If you know me at all, you look at this and go "DOH!"

You Have A Type A Personality

You are hyper, energetic, and always on the mood You tend to succeed at everything you attempt And if you don't succeed at first, you quickly climb your way to the top! You could be called a workaholic, but you also make time for fun As long as it's high energy and competitive, you're interested You have the perfect personality for business and atheltic success

Do You Have a Type A Personality?

Remembering Peter Teague Milano

Born August 10, 1958. Died September 11, 2001. Grew up on Foster Avenue in Carnasie Brooklyn NY. He had two brothers (Frank and Derf) and a sister. Attended Brockport State University.

Peter was a family man from Middleton, NJ, with a wife, Patti, and a son, Peter, and a daughter Jessica. He was a corporate bond broker for Cantor Fitzgerald at the World Trade Center. Throughout everything I read as I prepared this tribute, I saw over and over again how much people remembered his smile, his friendliness, his helpfulness.

Kind and AttentiveThoughtful.

He was always thoughtful. The son of a good friend was starting high school. On the morning of the first day of classes, Peter T. Milano called the young man to wish him luck. At the end of the day, he called again to see how things went.Arriving to take the commuter ferry to New York, Mr. Milano spied a pregnant young woman waiting at the end of a very long line, carrying a package. He whisked the package from her arm and escorted her to the front of the line and onto the ferry.He never missed his son's basketball games, never missed his daughter's dance recitals. "He was an incredibly thoughtful guy," said William McGarr, a close friend.Mr. Milano, 43, was a corporate bond broker at Cantor Fitzgerald and lived in Middletown, N.J., with his wife, Patti, and their two children, Jessica, 13, and Peter, 16.About 20 years ago, he played in a pretty serious touch football league in Brooklyn. The field was asphalt; when the game ended, you felt it. After a championship game, he was introduced to Patti, who had come to watch. He spoke to her only briefly. When he got home, he told his aunt, "I met the girl I'm going to marry." During every workday, even the busiest and most stressful ones, he found the time to call his wife several times, just to hear her voice and see how she was. "It always boosted his
spirits," Mr. McGarr said. Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on December 6, 2001.

Lauren Huber posted this tribute on one site:

Peter Milano was a kind, caring and loving person who loved his family with all of his heart and soul. He would walk on water for his family letting nothing get in his way. Thats the person he was. As well as very giving towards others. I'd known Mr. Milano, as I called him, for a long time. I have been very very close friends with his daughter since we were little and we met at Tradewinds Beach Club. Mr. Milano loved to come down during the summer when ever he could and spend time with his family. Whether it be boogie boarding with his kids, talking with friends, cooking burgers or just simply sitting on the beach with hs wife he loved being there. I remember how he would always look after all of us making sure we stayed out of troule, had enough sun block on, checked in with our parents, and always told him where we were going. One thing I will always remember is how he would make me drink cranberry juice because it's good for you and if I didn't drink all of it I had to come back later to finish it. The funny thing is now I drink cranberry juice all the time. Mr. Milano meant so much to me he was like another dad to me and I will never forget him. Although it is hard not having him here, we are all luck to have had him in our lives. Love always Lauren

Susan Haberman had this to say:

I met Pete while commuting on the ferry. We began by just saying hello to one another and eventually my friends knew his friends and so on. Over time, I learned about his love (and sometimes frustration) for crossword puzzles (and his being a terrible speller), his dedication to his family, and his general love of life. No matter what was going on, Pete always had a smile and nothing but kind words to say, to everyone. He would consistently offer his seat if one of the "boat girls" didn't have a seat, a true gentleman.

My research on Peter came from the following sites:

http://www.legacy.com/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=146278&PageNo=1
http://www.911wvfa.org/events20.htm
http://www.legacy.com/Sept11.asp?page=tributestory&personid=146278 http://www.ahherald.com/2002/ahh020912.htm
http://www.unitedinmemory.net/

I imagine many of us participating in the 2996 project have never met the people we honor. It seems so tragic that so many good people are gone. God bless them all.

To see a complete list of tributes, click here.

Soccer!

We had our first soccer practice and game. The concept of "no hands" is going to take a little while (and not just for him) but he did great! He was a good sport when it was his turn to sit on the bench (or in this case lay in the grass), he was respectful to the coach and his team, and I think he's gonna love it.

He's #2. The team name is The Bears, and I like both coaches. There are 11 kids on his team, and 10 teams in his age group -- WOW. Seven more weeks, and hopefully my photography skills will improve. I got a short movie of him playing, but it's 45 meg so I don't think it will upload gracefully!

Muesday or Tonday?

I hate working the day after a holiday -- it's like getting to do two day's work in ONE. Ugh! The appliance repair guy came today and said, "Yep, it's broke". So he's ordering a new face panel for the oven and he'll be back. After Connor got a frown-y face on his behavior chart Friday for "talking instead of reading" and "yelling out in class" he redeemed himself today by getting a smiley face... at least until dinner when he displayed the table manners of a street urchin.

Charles and Dot had a laundry marathon today, followed by a kid-a-thon making them clean their rooms. Neither one was happy, but you can see carpet again so the adults "won". Sassy and Dexter have been getting along... Sassy chases Dexter, Dexter swats at Sassy, and they have some amazing staring contests.

That's the news -- hopefully tomorrow the dragon doesn't win!

Labor Day Musings

I took Connor yesterday to go get his stuff for soccer. You'd have thought he was being outfitted for his reign as king of the universe! We had a Dick's Sporting Goods open up here and they had a "youth soccer package" which was a pretty good discount. We got cleats, shin/ankle guards, socks, and a ball for $40! HE had to carry them to the car, and into the house.

I'm so glad he's excited but at the same time it just breaks my heart that he hasn't had more of these moments by now. I offered to be "snack mom" at our first practice game so I bought that stuff this weekend as well. Now we just have to get to the first practice! It's on Wednesday!

Emotional IQ

I found this on Monica's blog...

Your EQ is 167

50 or less: Thanks for answering honestly. Now get yourself a shrink, quick!51-70: When it comes to understanding human emotions, you'd have better luck understanding Chinese.71-90: You've got more emotional intelligence than the average frat boy. Barely.91-110: You're average. It's easy to predict how you'll react to things. But anyone could have guessed that.111-130: You usually have it going on emotionally, but roadblocks tend to land you on your butt.131-150: You are remarkable when it comes to relating with others. Only the biggest losers get under your skin.150+: Two possibilities - you've either out "Dr. Phil-ed" Dr. Phil... or you're a dirty liar.

What's" Your EQ (Emotional Intelligence Quotient)?

Preview of September 11

Check it out -- and come back here on 9/11 as I'll be honoring Peter Milano.

Monday

New pictures of Connor's first day of kindergarten are up on the photo blog! My mother-in-law is here visiting, so I haven't had much time to blog. I have six straight hours of meetings today, right through lunch, so I should be exhausted tonite.

Everyone has been so complimentary about how handsome Dexter is. I got asked "how" we know he's a boy, as apparently it's unusual for males to be tri-colored. Here's our "proof" -- we determined it from his anatomy!

First Day of School

Wow, are we there already?! I put Duncan on the bus at 7:16 am -- I drive Connor to school today as there is a kindergarten assembly at 8:30 am. I was rushing this morning so the pictures are lousy so far, but there ya go:

Quickie

The computer is doing something funky, I can't get my pictures to upload of the kitten. He's still nameless, but definitely not void of personality. He seems to be settling in quite nicely.

Charles has been sick the last four or five days, I've had a miserable headache all day, so I'm not very chatty. But I didn't want anyone to feel neglected.

Thursday Thirteen for 8/17

Thirteen Things Carolyn needs to be better about 1. Teaching my kids how to l-i-v-e. It's a silly example, but I was touched at how much they don't know when my kids brought toys to the new kitten to play with, but didn't understand that he'd best like to play WITH them. 2. Budgeting my money -- I'm getting better at it, but temptation is a powerful force -- I'd really love to have a savings account so when new tires surprise me it doesn't wreck my budget! 3. Going to church services on Sunday. We've come a long way in the last year in getting involved in our church, but we need to be more consistent about attending services. 4. Investing time in my friends. Stephen Covey talks about your emotional bank account, and how your interactions are either deposits or withdrawals. I need to deposit more with my friends. 5. Keeping up my blog -- I've been so busy this summer, and I do miss taking the time to journal about what's going on, and what I'm thinking. 6. Exercise -- tonite was the first time in TWO WEEKS we had been to the "Y" to do our strength workout. That needs to become a scheduled priority again. 7. Scrapbooking -- I have barely touched my stuff this year so far, definitely barely since May. Memories are slipping away and I need to make time for that. This is also some of my "me" time, so it's important for that reason too. 8. Better health -- since we started to go to the gym I've lost five pounds, and I'm proud of that. Since I've slacked off the last month or so, I've started to feel some of the blah symptoms again. I need to make my health a PRIORITY. 9. Visiting other bloggers -- I love when I get comments, and yet I've been terrible lately about leaving them for others. I know how good it feels, why can't I "deposit" more??!! 10. Kid time -- Connor always behaves better when Duncan isn't here. I am hoping getting him into soccer this fall, and spending some quality time with him will help him realize how special he is to us, and improve his overall behavior. 11. Christmas planning -- ACK -- it's like four months away. I am MAKING some gifts -- I need to get on this! 12. Visit my parents -- it's a really long story for another blog entry, no "drama", it just doesn't seem to ever be easy to plan time to get up there. We need to go more often. 13. Take more pictures -- as I looked through what I've taken so far this year, I see that I really need to get back to taking photos every day. Some months I took hardly any -- and my kids have grown SOOO much this year! Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

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

Family of Five

Well, after seven years of no pets, we took the plunge tonite and took in a stray a coworker found. We think he's about 4-5 months old. He doesn't have a name yet, but he sure seems to be fitting right in. Whaddya think?

Sunday Blahs

I'm such a lazy blogger lately. Let's see... when last we "chatted", my Gatlinburg trip was sacrificed to fund new tires for my car. I cried Monday night, and then the pity party was over, and I moved on. Wednesday we took Connor to meet the Morton family at Tanglewood pool -- it wasn't as sunny as Fourth of July, but we had a good time. Judi and I both thanked each other for getting us out and moving. Thursday I just hung around the house, and didn't do much except watch TV. Friday Duncan came home from Dot's house, and then Friday night I went to a crop at Scrapbook Traditions. They are having a quickutz contest so I spent a good portion of my evening working on my double page summer layout. Prize is a quickutz alpha and a year long free crop pass, so we'll see how it goes.

Unfortunately, I did something to my neck on Friday, and spent Saturday with a kink in it -- very uncomfortable. This morning I am up and working on Christmas gifts and trying to get motivated to do something. Connor is about to bust a gut for me to play toontown with him, so I guess I should go do that. More later!

Brief Catch-Up

It's been an eventful week or so. Duncan turned ten last Wednesday -- I can't believe my baby is 10!! He's had a really good birthday week, spending it at Dot Dot's house. Last Friday and Saturday I attended the CK Scrapbook Convention in Charlotte, taking classes and wandering around the vendor faire. Sunday we moved a 14' truck of hand-me-down furniture from Charlotte to Winston-Salem in blistering heat, but we have a new couch and chair, along with several wood pieces.

Then yesterday my Gatlinburg trip went up in smoke when the car suddenly demanded repairs -- it's not in the shape to drive without the repairs, and if I pay for the repairs no $$ to go to Gatlinburg. Needless to say I'm not in good humor today -- I'd planned that trip for eight months. However, I'm a hard nose about our budget, and if I don't keep us on it there will be hell to pay, so there's not much I can do.

Salute to a Young Hero

I found out Tuesday that one of my friends online, Laura, lost her nephew Dennis in Iraq this week. Please hold Dennis' family in your prayers -- as Americans we should all be proud of the sacrifice these young men and women make to defend our way of life. If you don't like the war, elect different politicians -- but support our soldiers who defend US.

Laura, I'm so very sorry for your loss.

Twilight Camp

Duncan has cub scout twilight camp this week from Tuesday to Thursday. Being the scrapbooker that I am, I took the camera with me so I could get a few pictures while I dropped him off. The camp director saw my camera and said "I need a photographer, interested?" I said, sure I could take some pictures while I'm here... she says "No, I need one like the whole time, every night..."

So since I can't say no... I took 140 pictures last night, my ankles are sore, and I think I sweated off a pound. On the bright side, I have some GREAT pictures of Duncan from last night.

Needless to say, I won't be around much til late Friday!

Weekend Jibberish

It's good to know most of you had the same reaction to our friendly copperhead in the water that I did -- {{UGH}}. I'm still thinking about it...

We got home on Monday, and I managed to step on a hornet IN MY BEDROOM. I get bad local reactions so I was pretty miserable Monday night. Tuesday, 4th of July, was a gorgeous day, so we packed up the kids and headed to meet Comfort's family at a local pool. We stayed five hours, and the kids played, played and PLAYED. Unfortunately, despite rigorous sunscreen applications, both Connor and I became "crispy critters". He is now a brown little berry, and I'm red and itchy. Lucky me!

I hereby promise not to go a month without updating my blog. Please continue to visit!

Why I Don't Like Creek Swimming

Anyone give me some help on what kind of sss-nake he is? {{shudder}}

I do still exist...

I'm so sorry to be so out of it... our June schedule just really exhausted me. On a plus note, go look at the photo blog to see what the kids got to do on Sunday...

SA Blog Challenge #4

For Sale: Slightly Used Female, 41. Guaranteed income producer. Skills include cooking, computer skills, talking (top of class here!), scrapbooking. Has certification in driving, college education. Comes with current year memberships in Sam's Club, AAA, Scrap Addict Kits, YMCA. Optional accessories (available al la carte) include two LOUD small boys, cluttered house, stay at home husband. Preferred environment is urban, with yearly beach trips. Began recent refurbishment at the gym, condition will only continue to improve.

Price negotiable. Serious inquiries only!

SA Blog Challenge #3

SPLURGES ... what do you splurge on? What is your secret (or not so secret) way you spend money on yourself. No, I'm not talking about scrapbook supplies. I'm talking about something you do for YOU ... expensive haircuts, tons of shoes, massages, what?!? What do you splurge on???


I just started splurging on a more expensive haircut -- I've been twice now and love my new stylist. My most regular splurge is eating out for lunch on work days... I just don't like packing leftovers. I've got to cut back on that though... I really don't splurge on myself that often, with a tight budget it usually seems I'm always cutting back so others don't have to. I'll have to ponder this one...

SA Blog Challenge #2

I've been challenge to list 3 obscure things about me...

1. I was mugged in 1991 coming out of a local grocery store -- I had 14 stitches in my eyebrow. Not the greatest moment of my life (the black eye was the size of a softball, and swollen shut for 3 days), but a growth experience.

2. I used to be the scorekeeper for my college's swim team, and for the softball team, volleyball team, and the 45 second clock person for the basketball team.

3. I took bellydancing lessons in high school.

Thursday Thirteen for 6/1

Thirteen Things about My Week Since my week has not gone as I planned, and I haven't had time to blog and tell you about it, here ya go! 1…. Monday was a bank holiday. You always pay for holidays by twice as much work the day you get back. 2. I have Friday off to attend Connor's end-of-preschool picnic, and to squeeze in a hair appointment in the afternoon. 3. As of lunch time today I have to call in to a last minute meeting Friday morning. 4. My kids had their 2nd swim lesson on Tuesday. 5. Since the kids started swimming lessons I'm having trouble getting the cardio portion of my workout done. 6. No scouts OR church fellowship this week (or until end of summer) -- it feels w-e-i-r-d. 7. We visited my mother-in-law, and my sister-in-law over the holiday weekend. 8. Connor has new, more masculine sheets etc for his bed, courtesy of his Aunt Susan, who upgraded to a king-size this week. 9. Duncan completed his end-of-grade tests this past week, and since he did his best according to his teacher, he earned a box of yu-gi-oh cards from us. 10. We got to see "X Men: The Last Stand" at the movies over the holiday weekend. 11. I assured my hairdresser (also a friend) that if she called in sick Friday I was going to cut my own hair... it's been seven weeks and I'm SHAGGY (UGH!) 12. My boss is selling her old convertible, so I went by her house tonite and took pictures of it so she'll have them to send potential buyers. 13. My oldest niece turned 10 this week -- I can't believe how fast time has gone! Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

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

Scrap Addict Blog Challenge #1

ABOUT ME

favorite color: pink
word I most liked to be described as: friendly
best meal I cook: spaghetti
favorite dessert: chocolate mousse
favorite book: Mists of Avalon
favorite outfit: an oversized tshirt & capri pants
usually in bed by: 11:00 p.m.
favorite sounds: laughter, breeze, moving water
I wish: my hubby could find a medication to better treat his bipolar disease
What I crave: peace and quiet
Surround me with: love

Thursday Thirteen for 5/25

Thirteen Things about Susan Susan is my sister-in-law, and she teased me a few Thursdays ago about how she wasn't on my list of things to do. Susan is a great lady, so I thought it would be worth SHOWING her. 1. From the first day I spoke to her, she has always made me feel welcome in the family. She reminds me of my Aunt Betts in that regard! 2. Susan has a hilarious sense of humor. 3. Even though she's one of my mother-in-law's two "sorry children", she treats my MIL very well. 4. Susan has four nephews, my two and two on her husband's side. She treats these boys better than some people treat their children. 5. Susan is an animal lover -- she has two dogs and two cats. 6. If anything ever happens to my hubby and I, Susan will take our kids. 7. She's very photogenic. Really -- go check out her website http://www.shadowknight.com. 8. She got tired of her registered domain name, and is letting me use it currently. It's a shame I haven't updated it in a year.... 9. She was one of the happiest brides I can remember. 10. One of her favorite lebanese dishes is juddreh. 11. She married a really nice guy. 12. Her birthday was May 16 -- Happy Birthday again Susan 13. She got me an awesome birthday cake last year since she hosted Thanksgiving dinner and it was my birthday... it was WONDERFUL! Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

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

de·pres·sion ( P ) Pronunciation Key (d-prshn)n.
The act of depressing.
The condition of being depressed.
An area that is sunk below its surroundings; a hollow.
The condition of feeling sad or despondent.
Psychology. A psychiatric disorder characterized by an inability to concentrate, insomnia, loss of appetite, anhedonia, feelings of extreme sadness, guilt, helplessness and hopelessness, and thoughts of death. Also called clinical depression.

Not So Good Week

I'm sorry to have neglected all my readers... we really haven't had a good week. It was a heavy HEAVY meeting week at work (we are interviewing for a new staff member) and then Charles has not had a good week emotionally. (He has bipolar disease.) All of this, plus making it to the gym every other day has left me exhausted. We really haven't done much at all to talk about this week. This afternoon is Duncan's last pack meeting, so hopefully I'll have something more upbeat to talk about tonite!

Neglectful Blogger or Busy Weekend?

I know my readers are feeling deprived! We really did have a busy weekend! Saturday Charles and I spent three hours out shopping -- we both needed new tennis shoes, we had to hit Sam's Club and Lowe's Home Improvement. Then Saturday night was a spaghetti dinner fundraiser for the scouts. Duncan has complained since February about missing the last one, so we couldn't miss this one. My neck muscles have been really bothering me so I've been sleeping alot when not at work. Sunday Connor sang at church, so we were good christians and actually went to services. Here's a picture of the preschool choir -- they sang "Mahalo" (which is thank you in Hawaiian) and then presented their mom's with leis and flowers. Aren't they cute?
We also took a picture of me and both boys -- so often I'm behind the camera, so in honor of mother's day I got in front of it for once. Hopefully they'll appreciate my sacrifice when they are older!!!

Sunday afternoon I put on my new tennis shoes and headed to the gym for the first time in ten years -- we joined the YMCA and I started my "strength" training yesterday. My muscles in my shoulders are SORE today. Charles is a week ahead of me in getting started, so we'll see how things go. Thanks for stopping by!

Thirteen Things Carolyn Wants to Do This Year 1. Take my family to the Beach (Nov 5 - 12)! 2. Take my family camping again 3. Finish cleaning my garage so I can park in it this winter. 4. Help Duncan get rid of his training wheels on his bike. 5. Send both kids to vacation bible school. 6. Enroll both kids in swimming lessons. 7. Send each kid to a day camp/special activity this summer. 8. Put each kid in an extracurricular activity this fall. 9. Send Christmas Cards (I've been bad the last few years) 10. Finish my Christmas shopping by December 1st! 11. Get a massage 12. Have a family picture made. 13. Paint at least one bedroom! Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you 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!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!



View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Monday Blahs

I have NO motivation tonite to go bust another kit for the NSD festivities at Scrap Addict. Charles christened our YMCA membership today by visiting with a "coach" about his workout plan, and then took the kids back to play in the adventure room while he walked on the track. I forgot to pack any clothes so we didn't go after work. Tomorrow is our last den meeting for scouts so tomorrow is out... Wednesday is fellowship and choir practice so my next opportunity is perhaps Thursday.

I did my no procrastination moment when I got home -- hung up 2 hampers full of the kids clothes. Charles hates that part of laundry and I don't mind so it's my job.

Anyone else looking forward to American Idol tomorrow night? I'm hoping Taylor sings "Little Sister"... it should be interesting hearing them tackle Elvis!

Another Weekend Bites The Dust...

and I'm tired. We had two birthday parties to attend this weekend. The kids had a great time. Mom is ready for a weekend with nothing to do and nowhere to go!

I did get started on some of the National Scrapbook Day (NSD) activities over at Scrap Addict -- I'm particularly focused on their Ultimate Kit Hoarder's Challenge -- I have 25 kits to make layouts out of this weekend that I've been "hoarding" from subscription. Two kits are gone so far but I have a long way to go before the contest ends 5/31.

Charles, Duncan & I cleaned his room AGAIN today -- he's been shredding paper in his room and it makes a horrible mess. The only explanation he can give us is "his brain hurts". I think it's a reaction to over stimulation but it sure is a pain to clean up. The three of us spent about 45 minutes working on his room in general and it really looks nice. Let's hope it stays this way.

It rained ALL day today... a cold gentle rain. It made my neck & shoulders sore, but it sure makes for a lovely sleeping day.

More tomorrow!

National Scrapbooking Day

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.

Thursday Thirteen for 5/4

Thirteen Songs on my MP3 Player 1. Walk In Jersaleum (Mahalia Jackson) 2. You Raise Me Up (Josh Groban) 3. On Last Night (Rockapella) 4. Come Back and Stay (Paul Young) 5. Twilight Zone (Golden Earring) 6. Kung Fu Fighting (Bee Gees) 7. Jump, Jive An'Wail (Brian Setzer Orch) 8. If You Can't Dance (Spice Girls) 9. An American Trilogy (Elvis Presley) 10. Hillbilly Rock (Marty Stuart) 11. Tarzan Boy (Baltimora) 12. Lady Marmalade (Patti LaBelle) 13. Summertime (Fantasia) Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

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

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!