Coming to a theater near you...

Can't wait to see this...



and this...



and this...

B Goes to the Movies!

I'm going tonight.  I'll update tomorrow with a review. 

Hasta Later.

Chores

I think I'm going to do a little housework. I really want to scrapbook later today.  I'm going to bust my arse getting things done and then reap the rewards later.

I'm giving myself one hour to get some work done.  I'll report back then.  If I'm not happy with my results, I'll take another hour. 

I'm going in...

B's Movie Review

It's been a while. 

This one has been out on DVD for a while now.  And I'm just now getting around to seeing it.

"He's Just Not That Into You."

I loved it.  Mr. B and I watched it together.  Sadly, I wish I'd seen it about twenty years ago.  I don't know that I would have learned anything, but I would love for my 17-18 year old self to hear some of that.  Luckily for those my age or older, we didn't have caller-id jacking up our phone stalking.  Those were some good times.  I could totally relate to GiGi in that movie.  That was *so* me back in the day.  Which translates to - - I was pathetic.  I had to have a man to identify me.  I chased and I chased.  It's so embarrassing. 

Anyway - - the movie was great.  I loved it.  I laughed out loud several times.

I give it a strong, "A."

It's on.

Like donkey kong.  Okay, that was gay.

It is on though.  Time for weight loss.  So me and eleventy billion others will dive into the "get healthy" thing for the first of the year.

I have to do it this time.  I have to.

I'm doing it for me, first and foremost.  I want to look better.  I want to feel better.  I want to not be embarrassed in my own skin.  I want to go back to the days of getting ready in the bathroom in just my undies.  Not covered up in a ginormous robe.  I want to look in the mirror and be proud of who I am.  I've seen a couple of pictures of me from Christmas.  I'm not liking it.  At all.  I want to love what I see, when I see it.  And when I don't.  I also want the 8000 pairs of Victoria's Secret underwear that I have, that are like new, to fit me.  I want to be ready to put a swimsuit on this summer.  No, I won't be anywhere near perfection by then, but I want to be happy.  I want to be a healthier person.

I'm also doing it for Mr. B.  I know he loves me no matter what.  He's never said a hurtful thing about my weight.  He's not that kind of guy.  I know some guys can be real a-holes when it comes to this.  Not Mr. B.  He's encouraging in the right kind of way.  I want him to be proud of me.

I want to do this for my kids, too.  I want to ride bikes with them and run and play.  I feel old.  And I'm not old.  Not really.  I want then to be proud of me, too.  I don't want them to ever be embarrassed of me.

How am I going to do this?  Common freaking sense.  I'm not joining a gym.  I'm not hiring a personal trainer.  I'm not joining a "Hi, I'm a fat ass" program.  I'm going to do it.  I'm going to utilize the workout programs I have on the Wii, ride my new bicycle, walk our dog, etc.  And - - I'm going to watch what I eat.  Late night snacking is my downfall.  I have to stop.  Just stop.  I know I can.  Smaller portions, less sugar, no candy and lots of water.

I'm not seeking any advice here.  Not trying to be snarky.  Just saying that I'm going to do this.  I appreciate encouragement.  Not nagging.  And - - the first skinny person that comments on here about how "proud they are of me" is gonna get their ass kicked.  I'm sure you skinnies mean well, it just comes across condescending to us fatties.  Just sayin'.

So - - here I am.  Plus-sized me.  Gonna lose some weight.  For me.  For my husband.  For my kids.

*sigh*

January 1st - - it's on.  Anyone want to join me?


I am going to post my progress once per week.  I'll include some of my motivational play lists, workouts I've done, etc.


It's scary.  And I have a long way to go.  Short-term goals.


I. Can. Do. This.

Scrapbook Order Surplus

I found out why the bill was so high.  They doubled up on me on the paper.  I don't remember ordering *that* much paper.  So - - here's the deal-io.  If you are local, or Shawna, and want some of this Twilight themed paper, just give me a shout.  First come, first served.  I can't remember how much each sheet is.  Close to a $1 a piece.  Let me know if you are interested.  I'll show it to ya.  Cute stuff - - I just don't need this much.

*kisses*

Pillow Talk

No - - not dirty talk.  Not intimate "revealings."

I'm talking about bedtime for the kids.  Here's how things have gone down tonight:

1.  I hear the bed springs squeaking.  That means they are jumping on the bed.  I went and stood in the doorway and caught them.  The goofballs still denied it.  Then, when I said I saw them, Cameron said, "Justin told me to do it."  So I turned the t.v. off.  That's when Cameron started crying.  He said he wasn't done watching it.  I told him he wasn't even facing that direction.  Apparently I hurt his feelings.  I'm so sorry.  

This is where I went to soak in the tub.  I needed to soak in Calgon.  For the sanity and for the moisture.  Plus, I'd been snuggling with Bella.  So I smelled like dog.  Out of Calgon.  Buggar.  I soaked in some other bath salt stuff and loaded up on the lotion.

2.  I got out to hear the kids laughing and cutting up.  I asked Mr. B what they were doing.  He didn't know.  Well, caught again.  This time, stacking stuff up on the bed.  Bean bags, extra pillows, etc.

Go. To. Bed.

Ugh.

GO TO BED!!!!

More snow?

We have a 30% chance for snow tonight and a 90% chance tomorrow.  I can't believe it.  At least we don't have to go anywhere.  I can't believe this West Texas weather.

Oh, by the way - - I'm hating the oldest cat more than ever.  I swear I'm gonna put a hit out on her.  I have connections.  I know people.  Seriously - - will she ever die?  I'm sick of the pee on the bathroom rug.  Old bat.

Eeeeek.

Mr. B is in San Antonio today getting the bed liner sprayed into his truck.  Since we didn't get to go as planned (stupid weather) I wasn't able to go by and pick my order up from the scrapbook store there.  I asked him if he would mind going by there for me.  He said he'd do it.  (*yay*)  Except for the bill.  He called and said, "$50????"  I should have known better.  It would have been easier to just pay for the shipping.

Oh well.  It comes out of my allowance.  I know he doesn't understand.  I don't think he ever will.

Prayers

Please pray for baby Taytem.  She is battling for her sweet little life.  She is the newborn daughter of a friend of a friend.  And therefore, a friend of mine.  Our God is a God of Miracles.  He is good all the time.  He is in control.

His timing. His miracles.  His peace.  His grace.  His mercy.  His love.

Taytem - - for you sweetheart.

Gah.

I really hope he is a one-term president.

I went and listened to Bill Clinton speak.  I thought he was absolutely fascinating.  I would not give our current president any of my time.  I'd kind of like to give him a wedgie.  Just sayin'.

Jim and Pam

Any of you watch The Office? I am relatively new to the show. It has DEFINITELY grown on me. I absolutely love this scene. In it, Jim and Pam get married. They both questioned why they invited anyone to the wedding. It had been a total disaster. She accidentally ripped her veil and it set her off. So, he cut his tie and then just watch.




They ditched everyone and went off to get married on the boat at Niagara Falls. I can't believe it, but it made me cry. It was him and her. Just them. I freakin' loved it. Then, their friends, not knowing they snuck off and got married, thought they'd do the wedding to Forever by Chris Brown that went viral on youtube.

Not kidding. I cried. If you are a fan of the show - - you should love this. I am totally Team Jim. :D

Quick Update

I'm at the "intermission" of a movie right now.  I'm watching Goodfellas.  Yeah.  Mobster stuff.  Kind of cool, but a lot violent.  Wow.  I needed a break to refresh my beverage.

We said good-bye to Mr. B's family today.  We had a great visit.  We ordered tamales from Diego's.  We got two dozen spicy ones and three dozen regular ones.  I made the rest of the food.  (That's right.  I'm pretty freakin' awesome.)  Now, spicy vs. regular.  Huh?  OMG!  Let me put it to you like this - - B don't do spicy.  Not at all.  I'm still feeling it.  And a certain body part is ON FIRE.  Know what I mean?  Oh my Santa.  I need a fire extinguisher for my backside.  Let's leave it at that. 

Anyway, great visit.  My sopapilla cheesecake killed.  :D  (In Texas, we do Mexican food before Christmas.  I don't know why.  Just - - lots of us do.  Go figure.)

Bella is doing great.  She's doing fabulous tonight.  It's been raining and I think the sound has her in a trance.  The last two nights have been kind of brutal.  So I'll take a break if Mother Nature deems it necessary to let the rain continue to fall.  I'm going to update our website again tomorrow.  Look for lots of pictures of her.  (She's quite photogenic!)

I better jet.  I'm only half way done with this movie and it's late.

Happy Festivus!  (Seinfeld thing.  Google it.)

Bella!!!

We might have just lost our minds today.

Meet Bella...

We did not wake up this morning planning on getting a dog.  We've talked about it for quite some time but have never come across what we were looking for.  We've been very specific and consistent in our train of thought.  We wanted a female yellow lab puppy.  I'd looked around on Craigslist, check the local ads, and even a few websites.  Nothing that worked for us.  (We weren't too interested in paying $3K for a dog.)

Along came Bella.  She is registered and everything we were looking for.  We wanted a puppy for a couple of reasons.  1.  For the kids.  We knew that growing up together would be better for the kids.  2.  The cats.  Well, we didn't want to bring in a grown up dog that might hate cats.  Since we have three, it's kind of a big deal.  They are not happy with us right now.  As a matter of fact, they are pretty pissed off at us.  I don't blame them.

Mr. B came home from the grocery store this afternoon showing me a picture of the puppies that were for sale in the parking lot.  He NEVER should have shown me the pictures.  I told him that we absolutely had to go back.  This was our shot at what we wanted.  I didn't have to twist his arm too hard.  Truth be told, I think Mr. B wanted a dog as much as the rest of us.

When we saw her - - I fell in love!!!!  She has a sister who is yellow and then two other sisters who are black and a brother who is black.  I asked which of the two were more calm.  You know, calm for a puppy being purely relative.  They pointed at the one with the blue collar.  Our Bella.

I've had our dog name picked out for quite some time.  I didn't want to give the boys the opportunity to pick.  (Justin wanted to name her Justin.  *eyeroll*)  And yes, sort of a "Twilight" picked name.  It just seems so fitting for her.  Not in the Twilight character's pathetic way.  Just - - it goes with her.  And - - I love the name.

She is seven weeks old and that makes her birthday the day after Justin's.  Cool, huh?

So - - meet Bella.  She is a total sweetheart and fitting in quite nicely with our family.  We are very happy!

Winter Break Reading

I hope I don't regret this.  I swore off of Nicholas Sparks after Nights in Rodanthe.  (I only saw the movie.  But still...)

Anyway, here goes...

Good Deed for the Day

I stopped at the mailbox on my way home from picking Justin up from school.  I saw this CUTE pug just marching down the street.  She came right over to me and was so friendly.  I looked at her tag and it had a cell number on it.  So I called it.  The owner was in Houston, but her mom was at her house.  So me and Miss Pug Thang loaded back up in the van to take her home.  She rode in my lap.  Sweet dog!!!  But kind of stinky.  She is now back at her home.  When I got back in the van, Justin said, "Mommy, that sure was a nice thing for you to do."  Awwwwwwww.  Thanks, J-Man.  I felt pretty good doing it, too.  I would hope someone would return the favor sometime, too.  We have HUGE hearts for fur babies around here.

Busy.

Beyond busy.  Things will slow down by Sunday evening.  Then it will be temporary.  I will try to fly-by post occasionally.

Tonight - Cam's final preschool choir performance, Survivor, decorate two clipboards to give as gifts

Friday - Both boys have parties.  The mister is doing one and I'm doing the other.    At night, we are going to try to go see Santa.

Saturday - birthday party, time with my scrappin' peeps (this would be my chillaxin' break, can't wait)

Sunday - clean like crazy because the inlaws are coming to town on Monday, Survivor finale

Time to go put gas in Gyna, pick up a prescription and the oldest kidlet.  Busy, busy, busy.

Quote of the day...

"That's the true spirit of Christmas; people being helped by people other than me."

~ Jerry Seinfeld

Good afternoon.

Today is better than yesterday.  Much better.  I get about four or five migraines per year.  We're talking full-blown, need to be knocked out, migraines.  No nagging headache.  None of this "Oh I have such a migraine..."  I'm talking about a headache so bad that I'm completely nauseated and can't even talk or I'll urp.  This one hit me Sunday afternoon.  I took my usual meds, but didn't lay down like I should have.  It subsided a bit and then about 9:00 Sunday night - - kaboom!  I wasn't about to ask Mr. B to take me to the E.R. for it.  It costs so much money.  So, I took my ambien and hoped for the best.  I woke up every twenty minutes.  I wanted to die.  Mr. B got up with Justin and I decided I'd get Cameron to school.  I couldn't.  I just couldn't.  I didn't feel like driving and I certainly had no business being behind the wheel in that kind of pain.  So, I did what any grown up woman would do.  I called my mommy.

She swooped in and saved the day.  She picked Cam and I up and she dropped me off at the walk-in clinic and kept Cam for the day.  They let me get my injection once the mister showed up.  (They want to make certain you don't drive after that shot.)  It worked.  I slept all day yesterday and last night.  I'm a bit groggy today, but better.  By tomorrow morning, I'll be back to my normal self.

Those suckers are killers.  I seriously think about grabbing Mr. B's drill when I have one and drilling a hole in my skull.  I just want the pain to go away.  I know that wouldn't help, but when I'm in "that place" I don't think very logically.

Anyway, I'm better.  And I'll give you a quote after a while.  Sorry you had to miss one yesterday.

Quote of the day...

"Boys, I don't want to speak ill of your mother on Christmas, but she's nothing but a common street whore."

~Howard (Four Christmases)

Quote of the day...

"Can I refill your eggnog for you? Get you something to eat? Drive you out to the middle of nowhere and leave you for dead?"

~Clark W. Griswold (Christmas Vacation)

Quote of the day...

"You can't take me off the naughty list.  I am the naughty list."

~King Julian, Merry Madagascar

The Cow Gives Birth

One of Mr. B's favorite shows is Dirty Jobs.  I don't complain much.  I think Mike Rowe is hot.  So I'll watch.  Last night, a scene came on where he was having to help deliver a calf.  David was grossed out and laughing about how MR had his arm up the cow's hoo-ha all the way up to his shoulder.  He then says, "Oh, wow, big contraction."  I was cracking up about how a cow's contraction could probably dang near pinch your arm off.  Or feel like it anyway.

That's when Mr. B said that he was glad he didn't have to experience a pregnancy with me.  (Should I be offended that his seque into this conversation was a cow giving birth?)  Pregnancy and then actual delivery.

He really started in on me.  He said I'd be screaming for my epidural and the doctor would say, "But B - - you are only in your first trimester.  No pain meds yet, you big wimp."

Should I be more offended by the cow giving birth leading into a story about me or by the fact that he called me out on the wimp thing?  Cow or wimp?  Which should I be more offended by?

Quote of the day...

"Though I've grown old the bell still rings for me, as it does for all who truly believe."

~Hero Boy, The Polar Express

Quote of the day...

We just gotta get through these four Christmases as quickly and painlessly as possible.


~Brad from Four Christmases

Get. Out.

I did not need these...

But they were SCREAMING at me from the shelf today.  Who am I to say "no" to something that so desperately wants to be a part of my life?

Oh. My. Santa.  These things are fabulous.  I recommend pouring a glass of milk first.  It *is* the rule.

Quote of the day...

"Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, kiss my ass. Kiss his ass. Kiss your ass. Happy Hanukkah."

~Clark W. Griswold, Jr.

Quote of the day...

"It's just nice to meet another human that shares my affinity for elf culture."

~Buddy the Elf

Spreading the scrapbook love around...

Scrapbook Trends 2010 Quick and Easy Pre-Order

If you order today, free shipping.  Plus, I found a 25% coupon code.  Enter save25 in the coupon code spot.  My total was $13.46.  This is a very good deal.  ST is my favorite idea magazine.  And I'm all about quick and easy.  (No comments from the peanut gallery please.)

So scrapbooking peeps.  Get after it.  :D

Weekending

I'll try to summarize.

Friday night - - the kids played and Mr. B and I watched Four Christmases.  Cute.  I love Vince Vaughan.

Saturday morning - - I got up at dark-thirty to go help with Breakfast with an Angel at our church.    There were tons of people there.  I ended up scrambling a lot of eggs.

Saturday afternoon - I went through my scrap things and loaded the van with my stuff to go crop later.  I also cleaned the never-ending junk pile by the phone.  That involved lots of throwing away.  Then I did some general clean up around the house.  Mostly straightening.

Saturday night - - I cropped with my peeps.  I didn't even finish a page.  I talked more than I scrapped.  At least my stuff is all organized again and I have some direction.  I know which pages I'm going to tackle next.  I have a plan.  In the works: one completely phawesome page.  If it turns out as good as I expect - - I may actually submit it.  I got inspiration from the girls last night.  We'll see.  I love spending time with my girls.  The conversation was both stimulating and funny.

Sunday morning - - I didn't wake up until 10:45.  And I'm still sleepy.  I really need to get my body back on a normal person's schedule.  I'm getting too old for this.

Now - - it's lunch time and I'm still sipping on coffee.  I need to get a lunch plan going.  Then, I'm going to put away the TONS of laundry that's folded.  And hang up the TONS of laundry that needs to be hung up.  I'm going to mop the kitchen floor (finally) and then unload my scrapbook stuff from last night.  Then, I'm going to let my creative juices flow.  I'm turning off the internet.  I will only get on the computer to design with my Cricut if necessary.  No Facebook.  No Message Boards.  Just me having a productive afternoon.  Wish me luck.  I'll post something tomorrow.

By the way - - this post is mostly accountability for me.  I didn't intend on boring anyone to tears.

Cameron lost his DS this week.

And Justin found it this afternoon while they were outside having a snowball fight.  Kudos to the Nerf Protector.  The DS still works.  If it had been rain, it would have been ruined.  It was frozen.  I brought it inside and took my awesome new hair dryer to it.  I took the battery out and dried everything out.  He is dang lucky.  And *so* grounded from it.

For the record - - those things are NOT supposed to go outside.  That's our rule.  He *clearly* broke that rule.  Then, while looking for it this week, I specifically asked him if he'd taken it outside.  No.  I never dreamed he'd actually break this rule.  Oh.  He did.  When Justin shouted out that he'd found it, Cameron kicked in his most abject apologies.

The turd.

The lucky, lucky turd.

More pictures.

Here is the link to the pictures on our family website.

Bray Family Website

Snow!!!

A very rare West Texas phenomenon.

I'm going to upload more pictures on our family website.  I'm glad I took them when I did.  It's already melting.  The kids are going to be mad when they get home from school.  It sure was pretty for a while.

The Fray

You guys know how much music inspires me.  It triggers memories and emotions in me.  Big time.

I had to take David's car somewhere the other night because it was blocking me in.  (His car, not his truck.  I haven't been given the "opportunity" to drive The Beast yet.)  Anyway, his car didn't have any good cd's in it and it doesn't have XM.  I was forced to listen to the radio.  *gasp*  I know.  To think...

Anyway, a song came on and I found myself caught up in the familiarity of it.  But I couldn't quite remember where I'd heard it.  I texted some of the lyrics to David so that maybe he could find the song for me.  He couldn't tell.  So I looked when I got home.  I finally solved the mystery.  It was a song by The Fray.  It was played during a very emotional part of Brothers & Sisters a couple of weeks ago.  (I cry at the end of EVERY episode.  This episode was no exception.)  I found a clip of it on youtube.  If you don't watch, Sally Field is the mother.  Her daughter, played by Calista Flockhart, has been diagnosed with lymphoma.  She had just finished her first chemo treatment and her hair had begun to fall out.  She was terrified of how she'd look.  So - - well, just watch.  She conquered her fear with tremendous support from her mother and sister.  It was one of those scenes where I BAWLED my head off.  Watch it and tell me what you think:



Needless to say, this song is currently the most played on my iPod.  I love it.  It is "Never Say Never" by The Fray.

Are you freaking kidding me??

I've discussed before, ad nauseum, my extreme irritation of unsolicited e-mails.  Especially from someone I specifically told that I didn't want any fast forward crap.  I could not have been more specific.  I believe my words were, "Here is my e-mail address.  If you need to contact me about any of the subject matter we will be discussing or if you have a concern, please feel free to contact me.  But please, I beg of you all, do not forward me the cutesy stuff.  I know that there are some really sweet and cute things out there.  And I know lots of people have lots of opinions about lots of issues.  However, I don't have the time, or desire, to forage through it all.  So please, limit your e-mails to issues we need to discuss.  Okay?  Thanks!!!"  It was all said with a smile, received some giggles and we moved on.

Enter Mrs. Fast Forward.

She did not acknowledge the boundaries I presented her with.  At all.

I finally added her e-mail address to my spam list and her e-mails go directly to my spam folder.  She forwards everything.  Eh-ver-eeee-thing.  I occasionally peruse the spam folder to make sure someone isn't in there that shouldn't be.  A few have slipped through the cracks before.  I found the following e-mail from her:

Hey everyone!  I am going to be on vacation  for the next two weeks.  If you would, please hold ALL emails until 12/14/09.  Thanks for your cooperation.

Seriously?  All e-mails?  I've NEVER sent her an e-mail.  Ever.  Do you know what this tempts me to do?  Do you see that twinkle of evil in my eye?  I am inclined to find as much nonsense on the interwebs as possible.  And the bigger the attachment, the better.  I want to freakin' flood her inbox.  I want it to be so flooded that she will consider contacting FEMA.

Will I do it?  No.  I'll likely never ever say a word to her because I don't want to hurt her feelings.  I shall limit my cruelty to venting here.  And since I didn't mention her name, I don't feel so bad.

Whew.  I feel better now.

By the way, those of you that really know me - - you know when to forward.  And thanks for that.  Through the years, I've received some pretty funny stuff.  And I love it.  Please don't stop.  But you know the rule, if you know it will dang near make me pee my pants from laughing - - send it.

Also - - you know I'm preaching to the choir.  Right?  None of my fans are known offenders.  :-)

Okay.  Gotta jet.  Jack Black is on Yo Gabba Gabba.  While I hate that show, I love Jack Black.  So...

*smooches*

60% off Baby!!!!

*yay*

The fonts on this are stinkin' cute.  I'm very happy.  I didn't go on Thursday, like I did last year.  I went this afternoon.  I'm lucky they had this one left.  It was the only one I was after.

I feel a fun project in the works...

A new addition to the B household...

Oh my gosh!  It is so fun.  I feel like such an amateur.  I like it much better than the "big kid" versions of this game.  This one has songs I know.  Lots of them.  Now, if we can just figure out how to get the kids off of the game, Mr. B and I could take a turn.  We don't have the drums.  Yet.  I see them in our future.

I have a cold.

And I'm NOT happy about it. 



Dear Makers of Afrin Severe Congestion,

Have you missed me?  I haven't missed you.  I am, however, grateful that you took me back after my hiatus.  Thanks for the menthol love.  I hope our relationship is a short one.

Feeling the burn,
B

Time to re-laminate the list.

You know - - the list of hot guys.  Time to update it.  Here goes:

1.  Matt Damon - - Jason Bourne.  Enough said.
2.  Brad Pitt - - Tristan!!!
3.  Shemar Moore - - Whew.
4.  Jeff Probst - - The tribe has spoken.
5.  Sean Hannity - - Sorry my liberal friends.  I think he is dang sexy.
6.  Gilles Marini - - This man makes me think very raunchy things.
7.  Taylor Lautner - - The Cougar and the Werewolf  *rawr*
8.  Matthew McConaughey - - I don't care if he wears deodorant or not.
9.  Vince Vaughn - - I love me a funny guy.
10.  George Clooney - - Those eyes. 

Consider this list laminated.

Happy Thanksgiving!

We've had a nice and uneventful day.  It was just the four of us.  It was actually kind of nice to not have to be on any kind of schedule.  We ate when everything was ready.  And it was good!  Mr. B roasted the turkey, made homemade mashed potatoes, gravy and homemade rolls!  I made the cheesy corn bake, green bean casserole and apple pan crunch.  Everything was so yummy!  The kids loved it.  We had a pilgrim and an indian at our table.  Well, long enough for a quick picture.  Then hats were off and we all dove in.  Yummmmm.

I went into a turkey/tryptophan induced coma about 3:30 and stayed in bed until 6:00.  I had a little help from the Tylenol Allery/Sinus medication I took.  I have a bit of a cold.  Nothing major.  Just annoying.  The kids are showered and ready for bed.  Cam is playing his DS and watching Cars.  Justin is watching Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.  Mr. B is making his plan of attack for Black Friday.  He seriously plans it out.  Me?  I'm not a 5:00 a.m. person unless that's when I'm just going to bed.

I think I'm going to retreat to my bedroom to watch something.  Not sure what yet.  Something though.  I'm kind of in the mood to start watching The Tudors again. 

I hope you all have had a blessed Thanksgiving.  I know I have.  I am thankful for my beautiful family.  I absolutely adore my handsome husband and my two sweet boys.  They have made my day incredible.

Something Funny

In the midst of illness - - the kid's still got it.  This is how our conversation went down Tuesday afternoon.

Enter Cam and me in his room.  It was trashed.  Toys everywhere.  We were looking for something.  I can't exactly remember what.  Oh - - wait, we were looking for a clean t-shirt for him to put on before bedtime.  His dresser is across the room.  I had to forage through mountains of crap to get to it.  While we were walking out, this is the conversation:

Me:  Wow, Cam.  This room is really, really messy and out of control.

Cam:  Yeah, it is.  We should get somebody to do something about this, shouldn't we?

I am still laughing.  I don't know which of his non-existent staff members he thinks ought to come along and tidy things up.  Surely he wasn't referring to his father or myself.  Just the fact that he felt like someone should take care of it, someone other than himself, just slays me.

He's a funny kid.  Very very funny.

*sigh*

Change of Thanksgiving plans.

Cameron has pneumonia.  So no traveling for us.  Mr. B went by the grocery store and picked up a turkey.  I'm going to grab a few other things.  I already have the stuff to make green bean casserole and mashed potatoes.  I'm going to get the stuff to make my fave - - cheesy corn bake.  I don't care if I'm the only one that will eat it.  More for me.  I also need a dessert.  I may call and order a buttermilk pie.  I don't know.  I don't really need it.  It just sounds so yummy and very Thanksgiving appropriate.

So - - we'll be here.

The Tree is Up!

We got a new tree!!!  Woo hoo!  It was SUPER easy to assemble.  The only problem I have had is separating the branches where all the holes are filled in.  I've just about got it done.  The tree is awesome.  It has 1300 lights on it.  Pre-lit is the only way to go.  And - - it was in five separate pieces.  Now that's what *I'm* talking about.  Snap, snap, snap, snap, snap and fluff.  Installed.  : )

No ornaments on it yet.  I'll do that tomorrow afternoon.  After I see New Moon again.  That's right.  I'm going back for more.  Obsessed much?  I think so.

Pictures later.  I promise!

The Cliffs Notes version of my crazy life over the past three days

Thursday

Cameron's doctor appointment (Pedi GI Specialist), all is good, continuing medication. 
Hair appointment - haircut and color.  I am no longer blond.
Soldier's Homecoming - I sat in my front yard and watched my neighbor's son return home to his parents after his one year tour in Afghanistan.  It was very emotional.  I took pictures for them.  (Oh - - just remembered that I need to upload those so that I can print them out for them.)
I got all dolled up for my Twilight/New Moon night out.  That pretty much took up eight hours there.  And - - it takes me into...

Friday

I got home about 3:30 that morning.  I couldn't go straight to bed.  I needed to "unwind."  I think I went to bed about 4:00.  I got up at 8:30 (Mr. B got up with Justin and got him ready for school.) 
I took Cam to school.
I drove straight to Starbucks.  Caffeine was MUCH needed.  New drink!  Caramel Brule.  Yum!
Grocery store - needed a fruit tray for Justin's "feast" at school.
Sam's - to pick up pictures.  (Pictures I had uploaded and ordered two days prior.)  I needed them for Justin's feast.  We were matting them and putting them on their placemats.  Not there.  I had NO time for error on Friday.  None.  And I was DOG tired.  I was supposed to be at the school between 10 & 11.  And I still had to get the paper to mat the pictures.  And some decorations for the table.
Hobby Lobby - bought some leaves, pumpkins and paper for the projects
Home - to see how long it would take to order the pics.  Again.  The album was still there.  I called after I ordered it and they put a rush on it.  Thank you Sam's.
School - party.  I did all kinds of stuff there.

This is boring.

I was busy.  Beyond busy.  And tired.

We dropped the kids off at Parent's Night Out and then went to dinner with my cousin and his wife from Brownwood.  (Thanks, Laura and Sam!  We had a nice time.)  They went to the Brownwood playoff game and the mister and I came home and just - - chilled.  I watched Survivor.  Go Mean Russell!!!  That man is awesome!  I hated him so much at first.  Now, I'm convinced that he is the best player to ever play this game.  He may not win, but he *really* deserves it.  He is awesome.  I want him to get rid of Shambo.  She really irritates me.

Saturday

I got to sleep until 9:00 today.  It was so nice!  Well, I got up at 7:30 and fixed Justin some oatmeal, and then went back to bed.  Today, I'm going to try to put our tree up and then I *think* some friends may come over tonight.  The girls want to see New Moon.  Nobody would have to twist my arm to watch it again.  It would mean that I need to wash my Team Jacob shirt.  Again.  No problem.

Bored to tears?  You should be.  I am from reading it.

I'm working on some laundry while I wait for Mr. B to get home from the store.  I'm hoping *crosses fingers* that he brings home the tree I've asked for.  I think he will.  He'll complain.  But he'll bring it home.  I'll take a picture when I'm done with it.

Enjoy your weekend.  I'll try to post something interesting tomorrow.

Can't Blog

I have lots to say.  But no energy to say it.  I'll catch you all up tomorrow.

Dirty Mom Alert

Oh sweet mother of all that is gorgeous and sexy in this world.  This man sets me on fire.

Those abs...

eyes...

that voice...

*rawr*

# 7 of People's Sexiest Men Alive 2009  I must get this issue.  Stat.

Geeking Out!

Yesterday afternoon, I was thinking about the New Moon premier this week.  There are four showings at midnight and they are all sold out.  I started to panic because a few friends of mine and I bought tickets at separate times.  I was afraid that we wouldn't be in the same theater.  So - - I went on the website to look around.  Four different show times.  And then...I saw it.  A showing of Twilight at 9:00.

Shut. The. Front. Door.

I called the theater because I couldn't buy tickets online.  I wanted to see if it was sold out yet.  Nope.  Not yet.  And to boot, if you were in that showing of Twilight, you could stay in your seat for New Moon.  How flippin' cool is that?  Instead of waiting outside in line, in the cold, with the masses - - we wait inside and get more Edward love.  And popcorn.  So, I rounded up my posse and found out who all wanted tickets.  As soon as Mr. B came home from work, I scurried over to the theater and bought nine tickets.

I am so excited!!!

I'll have to miss Bunco this month.  But it will be so worth it.

Thursday night - - double feature.  I. Can't. Wait!!!!

Die Mosquitoes!

You blood-sucking scum.  Your number is coming up.  It's supposed to be 29 tonight.

Buh-bye.

Lady Antebellum

I just downloaded their album today.  Where have I been?  I love it!!!  I also love Andrea Bocelli's Christmas album. 

All is quite well in my music world.

The Amazing Race

Our youth group is having a discipleship weekend and I have agreed to participate in their "fun" activity for Saturday afternoon.  They are doing the Amazing Race and I said I'd be a driver.  I am excited and nervous.

I've reviewed the map of Anytown, USA and brushed up my knowledge of some local landmarks. 

Wish me luck.  This frumpy white girl hasn't had to run in ages.  That's scary.

Coffee

I drank my coffee in record time today.  I'm hoping it gets rid of this nagging headache!

I'm thinking of starting a diet that cuts sugar, dairy and carbonated beverages.  I might actually die.  I'm skeered.  A friend did it and she has lost a lot of weight.  And she looks fabulous.

A life without Diet Coke w/Splenda and cheese?  Whatever will I do?  How will I survive?  Coming off of the sodas is gonna be wretched.  Let me ponder that one for a bit.

Our Kindergartener and Our Preschooler

I am so proud of him.  We had our first parent/teacher conference today to discuss his first nine weeks of school.  He is doing very well.  He had two areas that need some improvement.  He needs help with rhyming and phonemes.  His teacher said it was no big deal because they hadn't even covered those areas yet.  He is doing very well at math - - much to his daddy's delight.  (Mr. B minored in math.)  Guess who will cover math homework around here.  Like - - from now on.  (I totally sucked at math.)

To help with the rhyming, she suggested Dr. Seuss.  You don't have to twist my arm to buy more Dr. Seuss books.  I went straight to Hastings and bought three board books.  *smile*

She said his behavior was awesome.  He gets along well with all of his classmates and is often helpful to them.  This was music to our ears.

We haven't had any such meetings for Cam.  They don't do those at our preschool.  I check in with his teacher periodically and she assures me he is on target.  I have wavered back and forth (a lot) on waiting another year for him to start kindergarten.  Today's opinion:  let him go ahead and start.  He seems ready.  I *hate* that he will be one of the younger ones in his class.  I also don't want to put limits on him.  We'll see.  I don't have to decide today.  I'm treating him like this is his last year of preschool.  We've taken our fair share of skip days.  He bats those big blue eyes at me and tells me he wants to stay home with me and snuggle.  I'm putty in his little hands.  This afternoon, he and I danced in the front yard.  It held him and we "waltzed."  It was a moment I'll never forget.

They are growing, learning and changing so fast.  I can't keep up.

*sigh*

I love those boys.

Domestic Nirvana

What constitutes Domestic Nirvana you ask?  To each her own.  For me, it is the following:

1.  A clean house.  I'm not talking ceiling to tile.  But clean enough where I would not be embarrassed if someone popped in.  Beds are made, floors are mopped and vacuumed, counters cleaned off, clutter picked up, kitchen sink is empty.  I think you get my drift here.

2.  Laundry done and put away.

3.  Groceries shopped for and put away.

4.  A plan for dinner.

5.  An inside temperature of 70 - 76.

I am moments from Domestic Nirvana.  Once I achieve this - - I shall take my children outside to ride bicycles.  I'll then plop my bootay in a lawnchair and grab the latest issue of Scrapbook Trends to peruse.  Life is good.  I've said it before and I'll say it again - - it's good to be me.

Very Interesting Disorder

Munchausen.  I actually think I know someone who SERIOUSLY suffers from this both herself and by proxy through her children and her husband.  It's really quite bizarre! 

Read about it here.

Very interesting.

He Loves Me.

Look what Mr. B bought me at the store today!  I'm *totally* saving them for movie night.  I'm such a geek.  It says "Box 3 of 3."  I'm guessing there are Edward and Bella boxes, too.  Imagine my luck with him getting me the Jacob box.   He didn't even know that I am *so* Team Jacob for this movie.  He knows that I am a total Twilight Mom and he knew I'd love them.  Isn't he sweet?

Awkward

Confirmed today.  I still hate kid's birthday parties.  Except my own kids.  And then, I still get stressed out.  Although, Justin's last party was probably the easiest of them all so far.  Probably because he only invited a handful of kids, they were all well behaved children and there were things for the kids to do.

I was at a party for one of Justin's friends today.  I've never felt more out of place.  Seriously.  I'm trying to think of a time where I felt more awkward.  I can't think of one.

I try - - and probably fail miserably - - to make sure *all* of my guests are having a nice time.  I try to engage in conversation with everyone that attends.  Adults included.  I also like to make sure that the adults know each other.  Or meet each other there.  That way, nobody feels out of place.  Rest assured, after today, I'll make more of an effort to do this.  The sad thing is - - I knew a couple of the moms there.  Nothing.  A little polite chit chat when I first got there.  But after that, nothing.  I walked around alone and wanted desperately to escape.  I've never been more uncomfortable in my life. 

I feel terrible.  Justin was having a great time.  While I - - well, I felt like I started having a total panic attack.  It was so weird.  We waited until gifts were opened and then we left.  We cheesed it out of there.  Luckily, Justin didn't seem to mind.  I don't know why I freaked out like I did.  It's very unusual.  Where I go, so goes the party.  I guess that happens when I am comfortable with my surroundings.

I don't blame the hostess.  Not one bit.  She was very kind.  I just felt weird.

I don't know.

Blah.

Three Nevers

I saw this on a friend's blog and I told her I was going to do it, too.  I'm stealing from her on two of them.  It's funny how alike and unalike we are.

If you have them, what are three "nevers" of your life?

1.  I will NEVER go in the reptile house at the zoo.
2.  I will NEVER eat organ meats.
3.  I will NEVER be a liberal Democrat.

What are yours?

Christmas is Coming!!!!!

It is, indeed, the most wonderful time of they year.  I LOVE the holidays.  I love that the Christmas blends have come out at Starbucks.  I am sipping on my first Gingerbread Latte of the season.  (I got the tall.  You know, the whole sugar thing...)  I limit myself to one every week during the holidays.

I think I have Mr. B talked into a new Christmas tree.  *yay*  We are upgrading to a 9 foot.  Pre-lit.  I refuse to jack with another strand of lights.  They are the bane of my existence.  I am going to try to get our tree up the Sunday before Thanksgiving.  Especially since we will be out of town for T-Day.

I'm going to hop in the shower, get dolled up for lunch with Mr. B.  Then I'm going to burn a Christmas CD to stick in Gyna's CD player.

The thing that sucks about trying to "be in the spirit" is that it is supposed to be 81 today.  I don't think I've ever listened to Christmas music in shorts with my a/c running.  Boooooooo!

Oh, oh, oh!!!!  I just had an idea.  Holiday Haiku.  Anyone interested?  Click on the word "Haiku" if you sucked at English in school.  It will "remind" you of what Haiku is.  Write your own Holiday Haiku and post it here.  I'll pick my favorite and you'll win something.  I don't know what yet.  I'm going to give this one a few weeks.  So bookmark this entry and come back often to look at the comments.  I want something original and not depressing.  We are a happy, fun place.  (Well, today we are.)  You can make fun of something if you want, just nothing sad.  Deal?

This is gonna be fun.  Here is my first one:

Christmas is coming

the shopping days will fly by

don't forget my gift.

Piercings

I was just talking to a friend about body piercings.

Right now, I've only got my ears pierced.  Twice on each side.  I *never* wear the second set.  I'm thinking about it though.  I think I will.  I still really, really, really want to get my nose pierced.  My only concern is what it will feel like on the inside.  I can't stand the thought of always feeling like I've got a boog in there.  And - - what about boogs?  They're gonna happen.  It *is* the nose.  Are boogs gonna get caught on the ring inside my nose?  Eeeewwww.

My fellow peeps with nose piercings - - clue me in here.  I want the good, the bad and even the grotesque.

Have you ever known anyone with other body piercings?  I have.  *snicker*

Haircut today!

Woo hoo!!!!!  Haircut day always makes me happy.

A friend of mine did some "fall work" to her hair.  She got rid of her blond.  I'm thinking about exploring my options with this, too.  The blond just isn't as fun once the tan is gone.

Xanadu!!!

I should not speak ill of the deceased.  But - - my goodness!!!!  My new hair dryer is the shiz.  I'm not in mourning anymore.  I was going to bury my old one.  Now, I'm just tossing her in the trash can.

Movies!!!

I love movies.  I love, love, love movies.  I don't watch many on my iPod.  But I have a few on there.  I only had two on there until tonight.  Tonight I added a third.  If I can't sleep or need a mood change, I'll watch bits and pieces of the movie.  I somtimes watch them when we are driving long distances.

Of course I'm not going to tell you what three are on there.  I'm going to make you guess.  No hints this time.  If you know me, you probably have a pretty good idea of what the movies are.

Let's have fun with it.  The first person to guess all three movies will win a gift card to Starbucks.  In each comment (and you can comment as much as you want) you must list three movies.  If even one is wrong, keep going.  And you won't even know if you are close because I'm not speaking of it again until there is a winner.  For the sake of simplicity, please keep your guesses on this entry only.

Have fun.  And think extra hard!!!  You know me, so this *should* be easy.

Goodbye, dear friend.

Today, I was forced to bid farewell to a companion of twenty-two years. 

My Salon Selectives hair dryer.

*sniffle*

I got out of the shower, combed my hair, put gel in it, plugged the dryer in, flipped it on and - - nothing.  I pressed the little reset button on the ground fault circuit of the dryer.  Nothing.  I pressed the ground fault circuit on the wall.  Nothing.  I checked the other plug in the bathroom.  Nothing.  Mr. B's toothbrush was charging.  Then it hit me.  It was over.  We were done. 

*more sniffling*

Now - - I have short hair.  Very short hair.  So to say that I used that thing nearly every day of our twenty-two years together is probably spot on.

And now.   Nothing.

And - - flat hair for the day.

The last left of the few things I brought into this marriage - - gone.  I called Mr. B and told him of my plight.  He said that, given the longevity of my previous dryer, I was more than welcome to go buy another one.  My new dryer is pink (imagine that) and it has a retractable cord.  I'm about to take a shower and wash my hair.  Then, my new dryer and I shall begin to cultivate our new relationship.  I'm a little nervous.  It's like a first date.

Good-bye old dryer.  Thanks for the good styles.

I did it!

It was only twenty minutes, but it is a start!  At ten minutes, I thought I must have been smoking crack when I decided to get healthy.   I can't believe I am *that* out of shape.  I wanted to quit so bad.  I let the music inspire me.  Here is my playlist from today:

O Fortuna - Carmina Burana (Traci will appreciate this one.)
Forever - Chris Brown (stupid youtube viral wedding video - - total earworm)
Flashing Lights - Kanye West (I know, I know.)
Another One Bites the Dust - Queen (symbolism for my fat)
Centerfold - J Geils Band (just trying to envision a skinny me that the mister would be all over!)
Rockin' the Beer Gut - Trailer Choir (funny song and quite unseemly)
Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off - Joe Nichols (tee hee hee)

Short list.  But it was inspiring.  I climbed 39 floors.

Yay me.

Climbing on board.

I'm about to hit the stair climber.  I don't expect it will be a marathon session or anything.  But it's a start.  I'll let you know what my playlist was later.

Wish me luck.

Fatty McButterpants

That's me.  I'm bigger than I ever have been before.  I feel that tug inside me to *really* do something about it again.  I need to show Mr. B that I am consistent in sticking with it so that he'll pay for the personal trainer we talked about.  For now - - healthy eating, no sweets, lots of water, walking and the stair climber in the bedroom.  I. Can. Do. This.

I can't believe that I used to be a leader at Weight Watchers.  And now.  Now I'm just down right fat and unhappy.  I'm pissed off that I let myself get to this place.  I know better.  It's going to take A LOT of work to fix it. 

I am declaring war on sugar and late night snacking.  Those are my two biggest enemies. 

*sigh*

No time like the present.  No more procrastinating.    No more "being uncomfortable in my own skin."  I am ashamed of myself.  Time to fix that.

I hear this a lot.

Mr. B *hates* it when I borrow his razor.  HATES it.  I learned a new trick.  I buy the women's version of the razor he uses.  They use the *same* blade refills.  That's right.  I'm pretty dang smart.

Speaking of razors - - I'm about to get reacquainted with mine.  My legs are just nasty.  They are grossing me out.

Parenting 101

Just for the record - - I do NOT believe in humiliating any child in a public format (ie: Facebook).  I'm not talking about "my kids are making me crazy" kind of thing.  I'm talking about specific details about their bad behavior.  I swear - - I'll never understand her.  I know children need correction.  It's our job to do this.  I just think there is a time and a place for everything.  And airing your grievances about your child for all of your friends (and some of their friends) to see is just plain crappy.

That is all.

Halloween Night at the AT&T Center

This is *just* how cool Manu is.  Watch this quick clip from what happened when a bat got into the AT&T Center and disrupted the game.

My Five Favorite Songs - - right now.

1.  Forever - Chris Brown
2.  Rockin' the Beer Gut -  Trailer Choir
3.  Copacabana - Barry Manilow
4.  Single Ladies - Beyonce
5.  Here Comes Goodbye - Rascal Flatts

Just stuff that I noticed I listen to.  A lot.  What's in your top five right now?

On a lighter note...

Since that last post was somewhat "dark."

I want to show you some irony.

I bought this at the grocery store today to keep in my purse.  I brought it inside to remove the "protective" foil.  Because when it's go-time, and I need to take some Tylenol, I want to be ready.  I don't want to have to mess with seals and cotton.  I just want to pop my meds.  Know what I mean?

I cut my freaking finger on the foil.  I whimpered a little and then contemplated taking two of them.  Stupid paper cuts.  They really hurt you know.

Lingering Sadness

I was privileged enough to have known all four of my grandparents.  I didn't lose a single one of them until after I graduated from college.  I even remember a few of my great-grandparents.  Let's see - - I remember four of them. 

My last grandparent to pass away, GrandDaddy, was something else.  My Grandmother passed away a few years before him.  He swore he'd never get married again.  I remember, fondly, the day he called to tell me that he and Anna were getting married.  He told me before he told my dad.  He wanted to know what Dad would think.  We'd all met Anna and just adored her.  What we loved more was that she brought happiness back into my grandfather's life.  A different kind of happiness.  She let him embrace his silly side.  I loved "Silly GrandDaddy."  That was when my relationship with him blossomed.  Don't get me wrong - - I loved my grandmother.  But to say that she was uptight is a bit of an understatement.  My dad used to say that she borrowed things to worry about.  He said that her mother did it as well.  I see some of those same traits in Dad and me, too. 

Anyway - - About GrandDaddy and Anna.  They got married.  I didn't like calling her Anna.  It just didn't seem right.  I called her one day to talk and asked if she minded if I called her Granna.  I could feel her smile over the phone.  She became Granna that day.

GrandDaddy passed away in June of 2007.  I remember the day vividly.  I was holding his hand as he left this life and walked into the arms of Jesus.  It was the most beautiful moment of my life.  We all cried.  Not heavy sobs.  Gentle tears.  Very similar to what I'm doing now.  My heart broke for my Dad and Granna.  I can't explain how much it hurt.  I can't believe how real that pain still is today.  I miss him so much.

When I picked up the mail today, there was a birthday card for Justin.  It was from Granna.  I read it to him.  He asked me who Granna was.  My eyes stung as I held back the tears.  I told him that Granna was married to GrandDaddy.  He then asked me who GrandDaddy was.  That was all it took.  I want Justin to remember him.  I know Cameron won't.  Justin might though.

I guess my point is this:  If your grandparents are still around - - give them an extra hug the next time you see them.  Give them one for me, too.  I'd give anything for one more hug, one more joke, one more conversation, one more "I love you."

They won.

I just thought I'd point that out.  The Spurs opened up their season the right way.  Great work from the bench.  I really think they are contenders this year.

Tonight - - they play The Bulls.  Bring it Chicago!!!

The Blind Side

I really want to see this. Would it be inappropriate to take a box of tissues in the theater with me? I'm looking forward to this one coming out.

Hi

I just wanted you guys to know that I have a new album loaded onto our family website.  You can go see it here.

Guess what Wednesday is...

That's right, baby!!!  The season opener.  And it's on ESPN. 

Go Spurs Go!!!

The Week of Stupid Busy

Here is how busy I've been/will be this week:

Monday:  Volunteered at Justin's school.  I helped with the Vision/Hearing screenings.  Then I stayed and sat with Justin during lunch. 

Tuesday:  Went with Justin's class on their field trip to the Pumpkin Patch.  Then, to Unidad Park for playing and a picnic.  Justin got to ride the school bus for the very first time.  Believe me, I have plenty of pictures.

Wednesday:  It's Justin's teacher's birthday.  Her boyfriend is going to be in the class to help carve the class pumpkin.  I volunteered to go and take pictures.

Thursday:  Cameron has his appointment with the pediatric GI specialist from Scott & White.  This one is kind of tentative.  I understand the doctor is changing practices.  I want to make sure our insurance will cover him.  I am also taking cupcakes to Justin's school for his birthday (which is on Saturday.)

Friday:  Cameron has trunk or treat at his school.

Saturday:  Justin's birthday party is at noon at the bowling alley.  He opted for all boys this year.  And just a few boys that are his age.  He's growing up way too fast.  Then Saturday night, my parents are coming over to celebrate Justin's birthday.  We are cooking burgers and then going to do a little trick or treating.

Sunday:  We will go to church and then C.H.I.L.L.

So -- my presence this week will likely be limited.  I promise to get back at it soon.  Right now, I have a few loads of laundry to fold, a kitchen to clean and kids to get in bed.  We are watching "It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown!"  I freakin' love Snoopy.  He's so funny.

I'm going to update the family website with a few albums.  I'll let you know when it's updated.  That way, I don't have to do it here and there.

*smooches to all*

No way.

Justin received his first "friend" call on the home phone this afternoon.  I put it on speaker for a couple of reasons.  One, I had no idea who it was.  And two, I knew Justin wouldn't really have much to say and he'd need some prompting.  (Something about that "Y" chromosome and telephones...)

It was his buddy Brice.  And just as I expected - - Justin had nothing to say.  A few yeses, nos and "I'm playing Bakugan."  That's it.  Then he said bye.  I'm so excited that the school directory came out.  (That was written in my sarcasm font.)  Brice is okay, but I'm scared to death some other kids are going to start bugging us.  Why do these parents let their kids have these directories?  Kindies? 

Oh - - I goofed up recently.  Their is a particular person I've avoided (like the plague) giving my cell phone number to. I gave my number, to be put on a list yesterday, and she had access to it.  Ugh.  I've been so careful.  And in a moment - - it's out there.  Thank goodness for caller ID.

Well, Cameron has temporarily lost his DS and is looking for it.  I hear him walking around the house saying, "Nintendo DS????"  I guess he thinks the DS will answer.  I better be a nice mommy and help out.

:drool:

Seriously - - this man takes my breath away.

I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED him on Brothers & Sisters tonight.

Some of you might remember "my list."  Well, the list has changed.  And guess who ballroom danced himself straight to the top of the list?

Have mercy - - those eyes, that accent, that incredible body...

Whew.

That's all I'm coherent enough to say right now.  The rest would just make me sound like a hormonal teenager.

Mmmmmm,mmmmm,mmmmm,mmmmmm.

I am rotten.

We went to dinner with my parents tonight to celebrate my mom's birthday.  It's nice going without the children every once in a while.  Just more relaxing.  And dinner was yummo.

As we were wrapping the conversation up, Mr. B asked if I wanted to go by Best Buy and look at laptops.

Uh - - yeah.

So we did.  We found one I liked and he agreed upon.  That's when he opened up his phone and started the price match thing.  My luck usually isn't this good, but, Best Buy actually had the best price.  They had like five or six of the one I'd chosen.  He told me to pick one.  That way, if it was a lemon, I'd be to blame.  No way.  I made him grab one.  At the checkout, I said something to him about how happy I was that he was getting it and that he must really love me.  He told me that he just wanted me off of his computer.

*smile*

He doesn't fool me one bit.  He loves me. 

Ode to Bacon

Just giving a shout out to my favorite breakfast food.  I love bacon.

This was on our last camping trip.  Me, no make up and a plate full of bacon.  Life doesn't get much better than that.  I'll bet I didn't have a bra on either.  Heh.  I obviously hadn't showered yet because I have my baseball cap on.

In my best Homer Simpson voice:  Mmmmmmmm. Bacon.

Happy Birthday, Mom!!!

I hope you have an awesome day!

I love you!!!!!

No fifth clue necessary!

Kim guessed it!

I had a buddy at ASU get us tickets for their concert on November 21st!

I am so excited.  I have the tickets in hand.  I got them yesterday.  Thanks for guessing everyone.  That was fun.

Fourth clue.

I had to have a friend buy them for me.

Your third clue.

I bought two.

Another

I'm only going to be giving five clues.  So pay attention.

A Hint

This is your first clue.

Guess What I Got Today!!!!

No prizes or anything.  You might get some respect though.  Is that enough?

Guess what I got.  Comment away.

Not as funny as it was sad.

I had lunch with Justin at school today.  All he had to hear was "cheese enchiladas" and he was like:  "Blech.  Will you please bring me lunch?"  Since I had not had the opportunity to do this yet, I jumped on it.  He ordered McDonalds.  No problem.

I signed in and headed down to the picnic tables outside of the cafeteria.

In walks my ex-brother-in-law.  To say that the man hates me is an understatement.  Which, I think, is vehemently stupid.  But - - that's his problem.  Not mine.  I didn't do anything wrong.  I stand by that.  I have nothing to hide from and nothing to be ashamed of.  So, when I run into him or his family, I smile.  It isn't often, but it happens.  I've never seen anyone make a walking u-turn any faster.  Needless to say, he didn't seat himself and his stepson at the same group of tables I was at.  Heh.

He won't even make eye contact.  That tells me a lot.

Actually, I feel sorry for people that are so misled and filled with hate.  It can consume you and turn you into an ugly person.  That's just - - sad.

What was cute was having lunch with Justin.  He was hilarious.  He invited me to join his class on the playground after lunch.  It's funny to watch him play with his friends.  He was thrilled when his 1st grader friend, Miss Q's oldest son, came out on the playground.  He tried to hug him.  E played it cool though. 

It was all cute.  I miss that kind of simplicity in life.

There is one little girl that stresses me out.  She is the bossiest thing I've ever seen.  I watched her boss kids around in the classroom yesterday and out on the playground today.   Miss Thang - - I'm keeping my eye on you.  I better not hear about you hen-pecking my son.

I need to go work on dinner.  King Ranch Chicken tonight.  Yummo!!!

It's Time.

Time to pick up the kidlets from school.

I have a funny story about school today.  I had lunch with J-Man.  I'll tell you about it in a bit.

Yoda

If you haven't noticed - - she has a lot of "pull" with me. Check out the new comment boxes below.

Continually inspire me, she does.

My favorite seasonal tune...

This is on Nick, Jr. Formerly known as Noggin. I love the video. It's catchy. I also love candy corn. So...

Minor (and ongoing) Rant

Please don't e-mail me a petition to sign.  I'm not going to.

And, if you are going to send said petition out to everyone you have an e-mail address for, please use the "bcc" feature.  I got an e-mail from someone I've never heard of before.  But I know others on the list of the person who sent it before them.  For the love of all that is pure and holy - - don't do this! 

Ugh.

Like my inbox isn't flooded enough with crap.

Also - - make Snopes, Google or Truth or Fiction your friend.

Microsoft is not going to send you money and you aren't going to get a free laptop.

Whew.

That feels better.

Working the Pole

Learn from the master.



I <3 Doug Heffernan.

Ode to King Julian

Surprise - - Freaks!!!

Shake it, shake it...




Which of you is attracted to me?

Reservation Road

Here is the imdb link:  Reservation Road.


It has Joaquin Phoenix, Mark Ruffalo and Jennifer Connelly in it.   Jennifer C. did an awesome job.  I really *felt* her grief.  It also has Ella Fanning in it.  (Dakota's little sister.  She is adorable and quite the actress, too.  I felt her pain as well.)

It's not the one you are thinking of, Yoda.

Making up for lost time.

Because you guys are on the edges of your seats, I thought I'd post random stuff all day.

I painted my toenails black today.  I LOVE it.  Cameron said he prefers them to be pink.  (He got onto me this morning for not having polish on them.  And I wore sandals.  *gasp*)

I'm taking teeny-tiny steps in order to embrace the holiday I'm not real fond of.  I'll get there.

Catching Up

Lots going on, so I'll go with the brief random posts.

1.  I volunteered at Justin's school today.  I loved how proud he was of me.  He was so excited to see me come in his classroom.

2.  I discovered Sunday afternoon that I can't make cake balls worth a crap.  Epic fail.  I'll leave those to Kim.

3.  I saw the most depressing, but good, movie Saturday night.  The mister and I watched Reservation Road.  It was one of those where you want to go snuggle with your kids when it's over.  Heartbreaking stuff.  I give it an A-.

4.  I have GOT to lose some weight.  It is a must.  Getting started is so hard!

5.  I got stoned last week.  Not what you think.  I had another kidney stone.  I passed it easy at home.  With meds.  Ouchy.

6.  I *just* realized a couple of days ago that Without a Trace was canceled.  I hate it when that happens.  No series finale.  No closure.  Just - - over.  I need Anthony Lapaglia to join one of my shows.  I'd like to see him on The Good Wife.

7.  Gilles Marini.  Sweet heavens that man is delicious.  He's on Brothers & Sisters right now and he's supposed to be on Nip/Tuck.  Seriously peeps, that man is one gigantic bowl of yummmmmm.

Whew.  Was that good for you?  *rawr*

8.  We are busier than a one-legged man at an ass kicking contest.  October is so busy.  Festivals, birthdays, trick or treating, field trips to the pumpkin patch, trunk or treat...  Just busy.

9.  My laptop is in the dying process.  It's been a slow and painful death.  It stinks because I haven't had this one for that long.  Mr. B went to look for a new one for me the other day.  It turns out that you cannot buy one until the 22nd.  That's when Windows 7 comes out.  So most businesses have pulled all of their laptops off of their shelves and are bringing in the ones with Windows 7.  I'm getting impatient.

10.  We *really* need to sell the Lexus.  I understand that Mr. B will hook up a friend.  We do not need three vehicles.  Please - - somebody buy it.  It's pretty and it's in excellent shape.  He said he'd rather sell it cheaper to someone he knows.

11.  I don't normally watch baseball on television.  Too long.  Not fast paced enough like basketball.  Anyway, we caught the end of the Yankees/Angels game last night.  That was intense.  We were rooting for the underdogs.  Just 'cause we like to do that when we don't have a dog in the hunt.  That hit by the Angels at the bottom of the 11th (yes, I said 11th) was awesome.  I'm sorry Yankees fans.  That was incredible.

12.  The seasonal coffee creamers are out!  And so is Egg Nog.  Does this mean I can decorate for Christmas yet?  I already want to listen to Christmas music.  That seems impossible to do while the air conditioner is running.

13.  I love Dr. House.  His sarcasm is not to be matched.  I freakin' love that.

14.  We had family night on Friday.  We ate popcorn and watched a movie together.  The kids chose Madagascar 2.  The mister and I had both seen bits and pieces of it, but we'd never sat down and watched it all.  I LOVED it!  I love King Julian.  He cracks me up.  I love it when he tells Mort to shut up.  To give KJ credit - - Mort *is* pretty annoying.

15.  Facebook is still pissing me off.  It doesn't work more than it does.

That's enough for now.

I hope you all are having an awesome day.

The Faker

Here's how it went down.

Justin went to the school nurse because he said he had a "headache."
They took his temperature.  He told them I forgot to do it this morning.
It was normal.
They called to see if I wanted to bring him some Tylenol.
I said I'd just come get him.
They said that this is how "it" has been known to start.
I told them he'd already had "it."
I took him home anyway.
He went skipping out of school.
He then told me he didn't want to miss second recess.
In the van, I told him no video games today.
He then asked if he could ride his bike.

No.

Now he tells me he never had a headache.
*gasp*  Really?  So shocking.  (written in my imaginary sarcasm font)

Guess who just bought himself an earlier bedtime.  This kid needs more sleep.

Turd.

Completely Random Stuff

1.  Facebook is pissing me off.  Like I need 9000 e-mails about stuff.  Try as I might, I can't fix it.  Stupid, stupid facebook.

2.  The husband has been fever free for a whole day.  *yay*

3.  I really think I broke my toe.  *whimper*

4.  I've never believed any of those forwards that tell me Microsoft is going to give me money if I forward to everyone I've ever known.  And Ericson is not giving away computers either.  *eyeroll*

5.  Never waste your money on professional carpet cleaners.  Go buy a good steam cleaner.  Long story.

6.  I'm thinking about being a vampire for Halloween.  All I need is some goth clothing and a little pixy dust.  Voila!  I think I'm going to go buy me some black nail polish tomorrow.

7.  I just asked my Magic 8-Ball a question and did NOT get the answer I was looking for.

8.  The Proposal is one of the cutest movies I've seen in a long time.  I still love it.  It will be on my replay list for quite some time.

9.  I get that not everybody gets me.  And I'm cool with that.  Frankly, I don't care.

10. I am really enjoying the new show "The Good Wife."  It's pretty good.  I am pretty disappointed in Cougar Town.

That is all.  I just had to throw you guys a bone since I've been absent as of late.  Since Facebook is pissing me off - - perhaps I'll hang out around here more.  By the way, I never scrapped the other day.  I opted for napping.  I feel a session coming on soon though.  Perhaps I'll wow you then.

Smooches.

Feeling Creative

I am contemplating working on a couple of scrapbook pages this afternoon.  If I get any done, I'll post them later.  I might just be interested in a nap, too.  Who says I can't do both?

Fever Free Household

*insert happy dance here*

The past week was rough.  No doubt.  I'm certain it could have been much worse.  Cameron went back to school on Wednesday and Justin went back to school today.  It wasn't all sunshine and roses.  I overslept this morning.  I woke up at 6:40 when the alarm on my phone went off.  I've started using it instead of my regular alarm.  That way, I don't have to get out of bed when the alarm goes off.  =]  One problem.  I didn't hit snooze.  I hit the off button.  Mr. B woke me up at 7:35 (when the first bell rings) and asked if I was still taking Justin to school.  DOH!  He was maybe a minute or two late.  He ate cereal in the car and didn't brush his teeth.  The principal was laughing as she caught a glimpse of me in my jammies.  Nice.  I was still in the car, but got caught nonetheless.  That's right, mother of the year right here.  Hey, I got him there.  Right?

I took Cam to school and then went on a mission to get some things accomplished.

First, I hunted down a place to get my flu shot.  They were giving them at my second place to stop.  Luckily, I wasn't filing medicare like all of the seniors in there.  I paid my $24.95 and got my shot.  I waited in the line to pay longer than I waited for the shot.  Now my arm hurts.  Wahhhhhhh.  However, I am pleased that is over with and I should be covered for seasonal flu this year.  *crosses fingers*

Then - - coffee.  I was right there.  I had to.  I'm already burned out on the Pumpkin Spice Latte.  I consumed a Grande Caramel Machiatto.  Yummmm.  I consumed said coffee while I got my nails done.  Sue hooked me up.  They look awesome.  Dang, she's good.  Thanks, Sue.

After that, I went to find something Hawaiian to wear to a luau tomorrow night.  (My buddy Shona turned 40 today.  Big shin-dig tomorrow night.)  Done.  No grass skirt, but I have a shirt.  And I'm going to wear sandals.  So there.

I came home and did a little power cleaning/straightening.  Before I knew it, it was time to pick the kidlets up.  And there you have it.

Yes - - boring details of a stay at home mom.  The good news was that I was free to do these things.  No children in tow.  For that, I was very grateful.

I watched a cheesy movie on Wifetime Movie Network and now I'm desperate for something decent to watch.  I'd do me some Bourne, but that's too much concentration.  Even though I've seen all three several times.  I'm too tired to read.  I know, I should go to bed.  Meh.  I'll tell you what, if you are still reading this, you deserve an award.  I'm going to go pick a movie out and watch it.  At least until I fall asleep.  If you can guess what movie I watched, you get a gift card to Starbucks.  How does that sound?  I'll even mail it for any out of towners who want to wager a guess.  First correct guess wins.  Tomorrow, if I don't have a winner yet, I'll start dropping clues until I get a winner.  Fun.  A contest.  Enjoy.

Now - - I'm off to choose a movie...