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Here's a tip for ya:  If you won't speak to me in public when you see me (or at church) then I'm not approving your friend request.  We clear?

Jingle Bells

The kids are having a difficult time going to sleep.

Been there, done that.  I remember how hard it was to fall asleep on Christmas Eve.  The anticipation killed me every time.  And it's killing them.  They are total spazzes.

We've set the cookies out, sprinkled the reindeer food out in the street, Mommy has vacuumed the living room, the stockings are hung by the chimney with care...

But sleep won't find the kids.

So - - we pulled a stunt out of our bag of tricks.  I went in their room, turned the light on and gave them the "Santa won't stop if you're still awake" speech.  As soon as I turned the light off (and right on cue) the jingle bells rang outside their window.  (Thanks Mr. B!)  I think it may have worked.  They are chilling out and I think if we'd just go to bed, they would fall asleep soon.

I love being on this end of things.  It's so much more fun watching the wonder and excitement light up their eyes.  I'm going to see if I can steal Mr. Claus away from the television and head to bed early.  *wink*

I'll post again tomorrow with pictures from the morning.

Until then...

Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!!

★˛˚˛*˛°.˛*.˛°★.˛˚˛*˛°.˛*.˛°˛.*★* Merry *★* 。*˛.
˛°_██_*.。*./ ♥ \ .˛* .˛。.˛.*.★* Christmas *★ 。*
˛. (´• ̮•)*.。*/♫.♫\*˛.* ˛_Π_____.♥Everyone♥ ˛* ˛*
.°( . • . ) ˛°./• '♫ ' •\.˛*./______/~＼*. ˛*.。˛* ˛. *。
*(...'•'.. ) *˛╬╬╬╬╬˛°.｜田田 ｜門｜╬╬╬╬╬*˚ .˛ *.*

Finished Redemption

*sniffle*

Time to start book two.  I'm taking the rest of the night off.

I need to go cheer my Spurs on.  They are losing right now.  Me no likey.

December 23rd

I started Karen Kingsbury's Redemption series a few days ago.  I'm sure I'll finish the first book tomorrow.  Maybe tonight.  I'm 84% through it.  (I love that the Kindle tells me where I am in the book.)  I just hit a real shocker part and now I'm tempted to read instead of watching the Spurs.  I know.  Right?  I'll listen to David's reaction while watching it and make my decision then.

I got an Amazon gift card from my parents for Christmas.  Woo hoo!  More books.

Christmas shopping is complete.  Gifts are wrapped.  Groceries bought.  Meals have been planned.  Nails have been done.  The house is clean.  And the coffee pot has been set.

Ahhhhhhhhhhh.

Happy Festivus to my Seinfeld friends.  Let the airing of grievances begin.

Plumbing Update

Crisis averted!  Two separate and unrelated issues.  The bathtub drain was just a ticking time bomb and one easily fixed by the mister.  I don't know how some of you girls with long hair function.  Long hair is a nightmare on the drainage system.  That's gross.  (My niece and her friend both have very long hair and they have spent time around here.)

All is well and we are good to go around here.

Whew.

Gross.

It's all fun and games until your kid plugs up the toilet.

Chances are, if it takes more than three wet wipes to wipe your butt, you probably need a shower.  After a crap load (heh) of wipes, an inch of water on the bathroom floor, using my hand to fish the excess wipes out of the toilet, lots of steam cleaning and a trip to Home Depot for a plunger - - I think we might have this under control. For the time being.

My concern, at this juncture, is that the excess water I scooped with the trash can into the bath tub won't drain.  The toilet will flush.  But the tub won't drain.  This can't be good and I fear it will involve a plumber.  So - - the kids bathroom is closed for now.  We are not calling a plumber in on a Saturday.  It's going to be bad enough on the Monday of a holiday week.

Good times.

Attn. Karen Kingsbury fans:

Which series is/was your favorite?

I'm looking for some new reading and everyone I know that have read her books have loved them.  I'd like to try one.  Which series do you recommend I start with?

Thanks!

Have an awesome Saturday!

*muah*

Basketball Love

I love basketball.  Love it.

Tonight, Justin had his first practice.  I enjoyed t-ball.  But something tells me this is going to be my favorite.  I'm beginning to accept that he is on the Mavs.  I will even cheer for his team.

I LOVED watching him at practice.  Shooting.  Dribbling.  Passing.  Basic ball handling.  I was in heaven.  I never liked going to t-ball practice.  I really enjoyed tonight.  I can't wait for his first game.

Go Justin!!!  ('Cause you know I can't say Go...  Well, you know.)

By the way, the Spurs pulled off a nice victory with a last second shot by Manu.  Whew.  That was too close.  I'm worried about tomorrow night's game.  They don't usually do well with back to back games.  We'll see.

Have a great Thursday!

We may need a realtor...

This situation with the new neighborhood kid is not working out well.  At all.

It's Saturday morning and he's been to our door THREE times already.  In ONE FREAKIN' HOUR!  What part of Cameron has been sick did he not understand the first time?  What part of Mr. B saying, "Don't come back over today" lost him?  If he was a nice kid, I'd feel sorry for him.  But he's a total turd.  I have no sympathy for him.  All I have right now is irritability.  And lots of it.

A talk with his mom is going to have to occur.  I don't do confrontation.  I don't like upsetting people.  I don't want to piss her off where she like goes after our cats or something.

I hate this crap.

We really need to move.

B's Movie Review

This movie came out in 2008.  How is it that I didn't just see it until last night?  I can imagine why.  I probably saw the trailer and thought, "No freakin' way.  Too sad."  Then last night, I saw that it was coming on one of our premium channels.  I decided to go for it.

Sad is an understatement.  It was depressing.  I can't believe that kind of stuff went on while my grandparents were alive.  Nazi Germany.  Blech.  I'm so proud of both of my grandfathers who helped in the fight against them.

This was a very touching story.  I'm going to admit to never having seen Schindler's List.  Now I think I need to see it.

Wow.

I don't even feel right grading this movie.  I won't ever watch it again.  But I'm glad I watched it the first time.

Elf Yourself!!!

Irony to the Extreme

We registered Justin for YMCA basketball last month.  We got the playing schedule last night, but did not get a notification about which team he is on.

I looked at the schedule.  Two names stuck out to me.  Spurs and Mavericks.  I wanted to cry.  I knew we wouldn't get on the Spurs.  We don't ever have that much luck.  We all own Spurs t-shirts, etc.  It would have been too easy.

Yes, there were lots of other team names.  But guess which one Justin got.  You guessed it.  The Mavericks.  The MAVERICKS.  Are you freakin' kidding me?  I only wish I could tell Shannon.  She would have gotten the biggest laugh out of that.  The Mavericks.  I have to cheer for the Mavericks.  Woe is me.  I will get a plain t-shirt that says Go Justin or something like that.  But I refuse to wear anything that says Mavericks.

This blows.

*insert heavy sobbing here*

Laundry Day

It looks like a load of darks, whites and then the sheets and comforters off of each bed.  We should all sleep with a smile on our face tonight.  I love getting in bed when everything is fresh and clean.  Ahhhhhhhhh.

I'm watching Ocean's 11 while I fold the first couple of loads.  I never get tired of this movie.

I need to do the floors and then I should be good to go for today.

I have Bunco tonight.  So the boys are on their own for dinner.  We play "Dirty Santa" at Bunco for Christmas.  I always take a gift that I'd love to leave with.  Tonight is not exception.  I would steal my own gift from another player if I have to.  I don't care.  I don't play all nice and sweet.  That's never fun.  I steal.  And it rocks!

Mr. B finally ordered a new microwave for us.  We've wanted one that goes above the stove.  I love for the counters to be all nice and clean.  It came in last week and he installed it on Saturday.  One small problem.  One of the numbers won't light up.  Crap.  The new one is supposed to come in today.  At least the brackets are already in place and the wiring is done.  Should be easy.  I'm wanting a new stove, too.  I have for a while.  He told me to research them.  Hopefully I'll find something that will work for us soon.

I have a newspaper deadline today.  I wrote the article last night.  I need to review it, check for sentence flow, grammar, etc.  Then submit.  It will be in next Tuesday's edition of the paper.

Back to work.

Have a great day!!!

Blessed

I was so proud and blessed while my brother spoke tonight.  He talked about their work on the islands.  There were a lot of things that he explained in person that he can't really explain over the phone.  Or - - over the computer.

Let's just say that God prepared my heart for the words I heard.  And I'm glad.  I am so proud of him and his family.

A few other things happened tonight that helped along the decision process in our lives.  Mr. B and I are seriously floundering when it comes to church.  I'm talking - - serious.  And we know that's not how it should be.  We are praying, and waiting for His lead on this.  All I know, and it was pretty much confirmed tonight, was that we are not where we are supposed to be.  That may not make sense to some of you.  But it makes perfect sense to me.

So - - the adventure begins.  It's time for our family to find a new church home.  I don't want to rush into anything.  And I want to be open to what God wants for our family.  We are praying for his guidance.

Christianity isn't a religion.  It's a relationship.  We need to find a place whose beliefs line up with ours and where we clearly feel the Lord telling us to land and get to work.  It's not easy.  These cold days where it's so much easier to "sleep in" make it even harder.  We just need to listen to the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit.  We'll get there.  But in the mean time, if you would, please pray for our journey.  Please pray for people to say the right things to us.  Please pray for God to give us a clear peace about where He wants us to get plugged in.

Please pray for us as we close one chapter in our spiritual lives and begin a new one.

Baby Bro - - your timing was incredible.   God knew I needed to hear your words.  Thank you for answering His call.

Diet Coke Haiku

I love Diet Coke
Splenda seals the deal for me
Pour it over ice.

I want to move.

I'm totally not joking.  I officially want to move.

Here's the deal.  There is a house across the street and over one that has been empty forever!  The residential history of the house is quite the mystery.  People who have lived there always seem to leave overnight.  This last time, it was empty for a very long time.  Then last week, we heard that it had sold and that the people were fixing it up for their daughter and her son.  Cool.  A kid.  At least that's what we thought.

Wrong.  Wrong.  Wrong.  Wrong.

The kid is a menace.  I just officially met him and his mother yesterday.  And I'm ready to list our house and disappear in the middle of the night.  He's six and in the first grade.  Thankfully, not in Justin's class.

So far, he has:

Pinned Cam on the ground and put dead grass in his mouth,
Rang our doorbell no less than ten times in the past two days,
Walked right into our house (while the kids were outside playing) and just stood in our living room (he said he just wanted to say hi),
Told Justin that his hair smelled like poop, flipped out and yelled that Justin needed to get out of his house.

I kid you not.

His mom told me that their house was open and the food and juice boxes were plentiful.

I want to cry.

I have been a big believer in providing for my own kids (not the entire neighborhood) as we go along.  I feed my kids, you feed your kids.  It's simple, really.  Then, if I don't want my kids to have something because it's either dinner time or they just had something, then we're good.  Now I find out that a freakin' all you can eat junk food/sugar buffet has opened up across the street.  Fantastic.

Justin came in today and said that the kid's mom wanted to know if he could come inside our house.  I'd already said no inside visitors today.  I was busy prepping dinner for a friend.  I did not need to play ref to the spawn of satan while I was at it.  The next thing I know, the kid rings the doorbell.  (At least this time he didn't just walk in.)  He told me that playing tomorrow wouldn't work for him and he needed to play inside today.  I said no.  Again.  And tried to shoo him away.  He just stood there, hung his head down and pouted.  This was when I decided it was on.  I don't do pouting.  At all.

The kids go to my parent's house tomorrow.  I'm not even answering the door.  Or maybe I should.  Then Problem Child and I can have a one-on-one and I can explain to him the lay of the land.

I'm not happy about this.  Not one bit.

Crap.  We've been so lucky in the neighbor department.  I just knew it was too good to be true.  This sucks.

I gotta figure out a game plan.  The gloves are off.

What?

Someone deleted me on Facebook.

I know.  Right?  Actually, I'm kind of relieved.  I had toyed around with deleting him before.  But I thought he was a nice guy and even though he and I couldn't be more opposite - - I found myself liking him.  I liked him because Shannon liked him.  My first interactions with him on FB were political and I thought he was pretentious.  Shannon assured me that I was wrong and that he has a huge heart and is a nice guy.  He sure is.  Our only connection was through her.  So I can understand why our "friendship" might terminate.  I didn't meet him in person until her memorial service.

Anyway - - I find it ironic.  I always joke about culling my friends list.  And then I get culled.  Heh.  I wonder who else has sent me packing before and I've never noticed.  Things that make you go "hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm."

Speaking of Shannon - - we (The Bananas) went over to her house tonight to go through her clothes.  I'm glad that is done.  I grabbed a few of her things.  When John opened up her closet - - I could smell her.  It was as vivid as ever before.

Life goes on.  And I'm okay with that.

I'm missing the Spurs game.  I gotta jet.

Goodnight fans!

*muah*

Busy Day!

I have hardly had time to slow down today.  The house needed some work after the holiday break.  So I cleaned, caught up on laundry, made a menu for the week AND shopped for groceries.

Whew.

Oh - - I also took Cam to get his teeth cleaned and had a significant delay at the dealership getting the van checked out.  Some "check battery" light came on.  It took about 40 minutes to get it back in the service department (without an appointment) and start the diagnostics test.  (Which tested fine.)  And then another 15 minutes to "re-charge" the battery that checked out fine.  It had to be done to get rid of the warning indicator.  Gah.

I was supposed to take dinner to a friend tonight.  Didn't happen.  I HATE that.  I re-scheduled for Wednesday.

Then tonight - - I spilled my drink just as I was stepping away from the computer.  So I had to get the steam cleaner out and clean it up.

I'm going to go wash my make up off and call it a day.

So Violent

Why do I want to beat up people that can't spell?  Especially people that should know better.  It just irks me.  That's messed up.

My two biggest pet peeves:  they're (they are - - a contraction), their (possessive pronoun) and there.  Also a lot.  It's not alot.  It's two separate words.  

Why does this bother me so much?  It's a stupid thing to get upset about.  I won't lie - - I roll my eyes every time I see these mistakes.

So their.

*giggle*

Labor of Love

After almost 24 hours of labor, Little Miss Zoelle Olive Shannon Martin graced the world with her presence shortly after 6:00 tonight.

It. Was. A.MAY.ZING!

It was an HONOR to spend the day with Ashley in labor.  And then to witness God's miracle of birth...  I bawled when she was born.  It was one of the most beautiful moments in my life.

Shannon introduced me to Ashley.  Shannon was supposed to be there with me.  We were supposed to experience this together.  I missed my friend terribly.  But to cloud that sadness with God's perfect gift helped bring incredible sunshine to this day.

This day was a blessing.  Pure and simple.

Here is the little beauty in my arms:

I fell in love with her the moment I looked at her.  And when I finally got to hold her, she completely captured my heart.

God is good.

Blah

I haven't felt good.

I haven't felt like blogging.

I'm taking a break.

If something exciting happens, I'll let you know.

Serenity Now, Insanity Later

Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. ~Albert Einstein

He must have had some insight into my, at the time, non-existent life.  I finally determined that I am insane.  At least by Einstein's standards.

I keep thinking, maybe even wishing, that a particular situation in my life is more than it really is.  I am always overly optimistic and then when push comes to shove - - it's the same freakin' outcome every. single. time.  Why, why, WHY do I expect it to ever change?  I am tired of putting heart and soul into something that is only reciprocated when it's convenient.

Time to re-define.  Maybe if I expect nothing, I'll be pleasantly surprised to receive something.  Anything.  I'm done jumping through hoops to please.  I am officially throwing my hat into the "I don't care" ring now.  I accept this situation for exactly what it is.  A big fat nothing.  It's time to be okay with "nothing" in this arena and move on.

So - - here I am.  Moving on.  I am proud of me.

Cameron Sings Soft Kitty!

This is on CBS's website as a competition. I don't think you can vote yet, but you can leave comments which might help us make it to the finals. So please go leave a comment for Cameron singing Soft Kitty.

Friday.

Busy today.

I have a doctor's appointment and I need to get my nails done.  I also have to work on a craft for a baby shower for tomorrow.  Then, Cameron's kindergarten teacher is getting married tonight.  He and I are going to her wedding.  It will be Cameron's first wedding to attend.  So sweet.  I hope to snag a cute picture and post it soon.

Well, I'm wasting time.

Have a great weekend!

Flying over the pond as I type this!

It has been a long wait.  Almost two whole years.  But at this very moment, my brother, his lovely bride and two very sweet kiddos are on an airplane and crossing the pond.  They spent last night in London (can't wait to find out if they saw any of the college protesters while there.)  They are en route to the good 'ole USA right now.

Here's the downside.  I don't get to see them today.  My parents and Noah do.  But not me.  :(  They are spending tonight in the DFW area and then will go on to Tulsa for their first week back.  Then, they'll come back to Texas and I will finally get to see them on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving.  I cannot wait.  I seriously can't wait.  My brother and I get along SO well.  I predict a Bourne trilogy movie-thon.  Probably several episodes of  The Office, introducing them to Big Bang and lots and lots of laughter.  Oh, and plenty of Starbucks!!!

Two years is TOOOOOOOOOOO long!

Help! I've fallen and I can't get up!!!

Go ahead and laugh.  But this really happened to me today.  Well, I didn't fall.  I was already laying down on the floor.  My back was hurting and I had Cameron walking on it.  He weighs almost nothing, so it feels so good when he does this.

What I don't know that I've shared here before is that I have a herniated disc.  It is at L5/S1.  That's just above my butt crack.  (Nice visual, eh?)  I've gone and had injections done before.  They are nerve-wracking and I hate them.  But they seem to help.  For a bit.  I visited with the doctor several years ago about getting it fixed.  At the time, my only choice was having that part of my spine fused together.  I was scheduled for a procedure that would duplicate the pain under x-ray, so that the surgeon would know the exact spot to fix.  I chickened out.  Back surgery.  Spinal surgery.  Potential complications.  It scared me and I decided to live with the pain.  And live with the pain is what I've done ever since.

Some days are worse than others.  I've discovered things that trigger problems.  One of those is sitting on hard surfaces for an extended period of time.  (You know.  The floor.)  I sat for a while yesterday cutting fabric.  I was sore last night, but nothing horrific.  I'm sure it was inflamed.  I popped two tylenol and called it good.  Then this afternoon when Cameron was walking on my back, his heel landed right square on that vertebrae.  Right. Freaking. On. It.  I knew immediately that I was screwed.

I tried to move and I couldn't.    I tried to roll over onto my back.  After fifteen minutes, I did.  I just couldn't get up.  I had nothing close to me to brace myself with either.  I'd move my right leg just a bit and the pain would just shoot down my leg.  It hurt BAD.  Cameron offered to call 911 two times.  He was worried.  I just put on a smile and told him I'd be fine and that I just needed to rest a bit.  Honestly, I was scared.  I could not move.

I finally decided to suck it up, swing my legs toward my chest and just fling myself up.

Sweet mother of pearl.  You know the kind of pain that you think you're gonna puke?  Uh, yeah.  That.

It still hurts.  Not nearly as bad, but quite noticeable.  I've had heat on it.  I think I'm gonna switch to ice and see what happens.

I'm 39 years old and I was stuck on the floor like a total geriatric.

I'll tell you how I got the initial injury another time.  Long story short, I need to send my medical bills to my brother.

Thanks, Bob.

Thinking out loud.

For some reason, Shannon's death has hit me in a big way today.  I have no clue why.  I just know that I feel this hole deep down inside me.  I miss my friend.  I miss her terribly.

Our relationship was casual.  And by casual, I mean easy.  Low-maintenance.  We didn't talk every day.  We didn't see each other every week.  But each time we did speak or see each other, we picked right up where we left off.  It was just easy with her.  We'd share funny stories and laugh until we cried.  She knew things about me that many don't.  She loved me, warts and all.

Shannon was my biggest "fan" around here.  Seriously.  She often joked about cyber-stalking me several times a day.  She was a big push behind my blogging.  I loved making her laugh.  And I loved the encouragement she was always willing to provide.

Her number is still on my phone.  I'm still friends with her on Facebook.  Her e-mail address is still in my computer.

I remember little things all the time.  Conversations.  Smiles.  Laughter.  I remember it all.  What I'm most scared of is losing that.  I can still vividly see her face answering the door on Saturday nights when we cropped.  What if I can't remember these things some day?  I know she's gone.  I know I can't get her back.

I just miss her.

To sew... (and other stuff)

Today is a sewing day.  I started cutting the fabric squares last night and I'm going to finish cutting them this morning.  Then, let the sewing commence.  I am making a rag quilt.  Since it's my first one, I'm making it for me.  I expect that even though it's just sewing straight lines, it might not be near my standards for gifting.  So I picked out colors that I like and this one's for me.  I'll post a picture when I get done.

I'm supposed to go to lunch with my Dad today.  He's still a member of Kiwanis and I quit shortly after Cameron was born.  I miss it.  They are such a terrific group of people that do wonderful service projects for our community.  I had just become president of the club when Justin was born.  That made for an interesting year!  I'm excited to see some of my old friends again.

My new book was delivered to my Kindle overnight.  Decision Points by George W. Bush.  I'm looking forward  to gaining some of his insight behind some very tough decisions in his presidency.

I have a prayer request for you today.  One of my really good friends has an important meeting at 1:00 Pacific time.  They will find out if they are the one family (of three finalists) chosen to adopt a sibling group through the Oregon foster system.  November is Adoption Awareness Month and as you know, adoption is a GINORMOUS part of our family.  Every child deserves to be loved.  And in a forever home.  So if you would, please pray for peace for Chris and 'Stina and pray that God's perfect plan is abundantly clear in the decision process today.

Aaaaachoooooooooooooooooo!

I just sneezed six times in a row.  What is in the air that is kicking my arse in this fashion?  I need benadryl, but that would be the end of my Friday night.

Allergies.

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

Fall.

Two things that have made my afternoon absolutely lovely:

1.  The windows are open and I am at a comfortable temperature.

2.  Chicken is stewing on the stove in the kitchen.  (I am making chicken spaghetti for supper.)

It's simple, but it's very Fall.  And I love it.  High tomorrow in the upper 60's.  I love that even more.  I might be super crazy and scrapbook a page or something later.

What's up, B?

Let's catch up.  Shall we?

It seems like once the last week of October hits, time flies.  And so far, so true.

We started the birthday celebration early.  Saturday we took the boys to Double Dave's for Justin's birthday lunch.  The food was - - meh.  But we had fun.  We came home and gave him his birthday presents a day early. Why?  Because it was Saturday and we wanted him to have the weekend to enjoy them.  And enjoy them he did.  He cleaned up on Nerf guns this year.  One from us, one from Papaw and Mamaw and he used his birthday money from Popo and Nana to buy a third one.  He wanted to have three so that he, Cameron and Daddy could have Nerf wars.  There have been Nerf darts all over this house!

Sunday, Mr. B cooked fajitas and we had a FABULOUS lunch.  I love it that I married me a man that knows how to cook.  While he cooked them, I went to the grocery store and then to Rosa's.  Rosa's flour tortillas and beans are the best.  Home cooked Tex-Mex.  Life doesn't get much better than that.  My parents came over later in the afternoon for a huge birthday cookie.  Sam's Club is amazing with their desserts.  It was two ginormous sugar cookies with frosting in between them.  Far from a gourmet dessert, but delicious nonetheless.

Sunday night we trick-or-treated and cleaned up on candy from just walking around our block one time.

We settled in and watched the Rangers lose.  And then watched them lose again tonight.  Boo.  :(  It's great that they made their first ever appearance in the World Series.  But sad to see them lose.  I'll admit it - - the Giants were just a better team.

Tomorrow is mid-term elections.  (Duh, right?)  I'm trying to figure out which of my liberal friend's votes that I'll cancel out.  *wink*  I'm just ready for it to all be over.  The phone calls, the nastiness on message boards and Facebook.  Politics can sure bring out the ugly in people.  Both sides.  I've stayed out of the discussions this go round.  And I've found that I'm much happier having done so.  I'm all for intelligent discussion.  But when the name calling starts - - I'm out.  I've turned the other cheek more times than I care to admit.  It's just not worth it.  Friendship is way more valuable to me than to discuss who is to blame and to make fun.  So there.  I'm voting tomorrow.  I'm doing my part.

I'm also playing Bunco tomorrow night.  I wanted to find a sub this week.  I'm one of those dorks that is glued to FOX News to watch election returns.  I guess a couple of hours away won't kill me.

Not much else.  I'm not currently reading anything but I'm taking recommendations.  I have several books on my Kindle but nothing that strikes a chord with me yet.  There's one I really want to get.  It's called, "Confessions of a Prairie Bitch."  It's by Alison Arngrim who played Nellie on Little House on the Prairie.  I've heard good things about it.

Time to set the coffee pot and get my butt in bed.  Goodnight my lovlies...

Not a "Fall Festival" Girl

In fact - - I sort of declared war on them this year.  I hate them!

Several reasons.

For one - - Halloween has always kind of freaked me out.  Not really Halloween.  But people in costumes where they are disguised.  I don't like it.  At all.  Seriously freaks me out.  (Anyone remember my clown fear?  I think it's all related.)

Secondly - crowds.  I'm not a fan. I don't like bumping into strangers.  It's creepy.  I never did the bar thing in college.  Okay, well I did once.  Long story.  The short version?  I was there for a bachelorette party.  I was a bridesmaid and felt like I needed to go.  The bride didn't want to go either.  But we went.  My dad showed up to retrieve me.  You know, my deacon dad?  Yeah.  I went home.  (Mom sold me out on that one.  She knew I was going.  She ratted on me.  Thanks, Mom! *wink*)  Anyway, it's never been my scene.

With the crowds, at festivals, come long lines.  Long lines to pay the equivalent of $1 or more for some stupid game.  Wait twenty minutes to toss a ring on a coke and risk not even winning it?  Thanks, but no.  I'd rather go to the store and buy a twelve pack and call it good.  Know what I mean?

Now trick-or-treating?  I'm all for it.  We make the walk around our block and it's fun.  Not too much candy.  It's all good.  Trick-or-treaters showing up at my house with a plastic Wal-Mart bag and no costume?  No.  No candy for you.  NEXT!!!

And - - Halloween.  You celebrate it on Halloween.  The big controversy here in Anytown, USA is when to do the trick-or-treating.  On Saturday?  Again.  No.  It's not Halloween.  I know it's a school night on Sunday.  Halloween usually falls on a school night.  Big deal.  Go early, get home early, don't let the kids eat a lot of candy.  Problem solved.  If trick-or-treaters show up at our house on Saturday night, they are just getting an eye roll from me.  If I even bother to answer the door.

I'm not really Halloween's version of Christmas's "The Grinch."  I like costumes.  I like to watch the kids dress up.  I just have my quirks.  I guess we all do.

Whatever you choose to do this weekend.  Have fun.  Be safe.  And eat some chocolate for me.

Wow!!!

Yeah, that was me who posted that last entry.  Could you tell I was a touch "irate?"  I still am.  But I can't let it control me.  I won't let it control me.

Here's the thing - - I really wish there wasn't room for hate like that in my life.  There shouldn't be.  Hate can make you bitter and ugly.  And I don't want that.  I want to be better.  BETTER.  And I will be.

I can handle someone treating me like crap.  But you mess with someone I love and I lose my mind.  Mr. B does deserve better than them.  He is better than them.  He's smart.  He's filled with integrity.  And he will do amazing things with his life.

I am lucky to have him.

He deserves better.

I hate it.  I hate it.  I hate it.

Twenty years.  Twenty freakin' years.

I *so* wish he'd tell them to kiss his ass.  Lucky for me, he has more class than I do.  He takes the high road.  Time and time again.  Someday I'm going to be able to tell you how I really feel.  Believe me - - I'm holding back.  Someday I won't have to anymore.  And watch out.  When I unleash, I'm gonna make Wyatt Earp (ala Kurt Russell from Tombstone) look like a pansy.

"You tell 'em I'm coming and hell's coming with me.  You hear?  Hells. Coming. With. Me."

It's Wednesday...

The boys are out the door.

I'm going to clean some more grout (thanks for the tip, Shawna!)  I've finished the boys' bathroom.  I'm working on the kitchen now.

I volunteer in the library at the kids' school today.  I think that will be fun.  I have a lot to learn about it.

I'm finally out of my loopiness.  Dang.  I HATE having to get those shots for my migraines.  I end up with about four really bad ones a year that require medical intervention.  I get relief within thirty minutes of the shot.  That's the good news.  The bad news is that I lose that day and most of the next day.  It makes me SO sleepy.  I woke up this morning refreshed and ready to go.  Thanks for the headache well-wishes.

Time to jet.  The clock is ticking...

Have a GREAT Wednesday!

Today...

I just got home from an injection.  See you folks sometime tomorrow.

Happy Birthday Mom!

Today is my mom's birthday.  She shares a birthday with her younger brother.  My grandmother was a complete nimwit and nearly killed herself and my uncle trying to induce her labor so that they'd share a birthday.  I loved my grandmother, but I always thought that was SO stupid.

Anyway - - Mom, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!  We are looking forward to you guys coming over for lunch tomorrow.  The boys are super excited.

I love you.

The Sweetest Victory!

You guys are the sweet ones!!  Thank you so much for playing.  And for "getting" me.  

I looked down at my watch and saw that it was 4:59.  I had to go find the number generator site again.  I found it.  And the winner is:

Congratulations J. Page!!!

Send me your address and I will send you a package of goodies!  E-mail me or message me on Facebook.

I can't wait to put a package together for you!

Everyone else, thank you for playing.  It was some sweet fun!  Have a GREAT weekend!

Don't forget to comment!

The deadline is 5:00 today!  Read the entry below this one for more details.  Then comment in *that* entry.  I plan on putting together a "sweet" package for the winner!  I'm so excited about this one.

What's been going on in the mean time?  Sickness.  Mucho coughing.  I think it all started out as allergies and it spiraled out of control.  Fast.  Justin had the cough for about three weeks.  Then Mr. B got it.  Now my turn.  I think Cam may not be too far behind me.  Every time I get this crud, I lose my voice.  That part is TERRIBLE.  I can't talk without straining really hard.  And it's exhausting.  Try getting your kids ready for school without using your words.  The same applies to bedtime.  Frustrating.  I even fell asleep during Big Bang last night.  Does that tell you how crappy I've felt?  So glad it's DVR'd.  I need to watch it this morning.

I went on a field trip with the Kindergarten classes yesterday.  We went to the Goodfellow Air Force Base Fire School.  I started to back out, but I opted for "suck it up buttercup" and went.  I'm glad.  It was fun.  And - - I got to ride the bus with Cameron!  It was so fun.  The bus was everything I remembered and then some.  It was loud.  It was smelly.  It was hot.  And - - it was scary beyond all reason.  We had a driver that I'm CERTAIN hated her job.  She was a horrible driver.  She was impatient (give me a break, Kinders, some of which were on their very first bus), she hit the brakes constantly (seemed kind of passive aggressive) and then she'd slam on the brakes at stop lights.  On top of all that - - SHE WAS ON HER CELL PHONE!!!!  Oh, I called and complained about her.  I am so glad my kiddos don't ride the bus every day.  She was scary beyond all reason.  Scary!!!

Here is some eye candy from yesterday:

Cameron took that long awaited first step onto a school bus.

Think he was happy to be there?

Have a fantastic Friday.  I'll post the winner's name a little after 5:00 today.  Go comment on the "Sweetest Day" entry below to qualify for the drawing.

Sweetest Day

Today is "Sweetest Day."  Uh, what the heck is that?

I don't make the rules.  Hallmark does.  I'm guessing.  It's all a gimmick.  But, since I don't make the rules, I'll just play.  I am now opening up the floor for all of my fans to tell me how sweet I am.  What do you find so sweet about me?  Try to narrow it down to a few things.  I know LOTS of ideas come to mind.  Just a few will suffice.  If you forget something, I'll remind you.

Now go on.  Leave a comment.  I'll leave the first one.  Feel free to follow.

Oh!  I just had a brilliant idea.  I will do a give-a-way.  You know - - 'cause I'm sweet.  I will comprise a care package of "sweet things" for the winner.  I will mail it, as long as you are in the U.S.

Pucker up my pretties.  There is no limit to the number of comments you can make.  You have until Friday at 5:00.  We'll call it "The Sweet Life Celebrates the Sweetest Week Ever."

Now - - GO!

Our newest addition!

I first saw the commercials advertising the new Honda Odyssey a couple of weeks ago.  The first thing I noticed was that they changed up the body style.  A lot.  I think they are trying to compete with the crossovers or something.  Anyway, I was impressed.  I never said anything to Mr. B about it.  Then a few days later, he came home asking me if I'd seen them and what did I think.  That was on a Saturday.  He'd already been by the local dealership and talked to a salesman.  On Sunday, he took my by there to see one in person.  I really liked it.

I tried my best to push it to the back of my mind because I didn't want to get my hopes up.  I loved my other van.  But honestly, it didn't have a few of the "perks" that I knew I'd love.  The main one being bluetooth.  This one has it and a few other neat techie things.  They also re-designed the dash.  It is MUCH more user-friendly than my other one.  They must have had a lot of moms in their focus groups.  Any change I would have made was made.  Love it.

Saturday morning, Mr. B had an appointment to go by the dealership and "discuss" a trade-in.

He came home around lunch time and told me to get my stuff out.  He made the deal.

Here she is.  I'd like to introduce you to Penny.  (Named after a character on Big Bang.)  She is "mocha metallic" with beige leather interior.  She is a sweet ride.  I really, really love her.

I am in love!

Yes.  That is a Diet Coke w/Splenda in the console.  In my Starbucks tumbler.

The stereo/NAV stuff isn't touch screen anymore.  Whew.  That was only good for fingerprints.  I hated it.  This is voice activated stuff.  Way cool.  Now - - how do I keep the "new car" smell and avoid the "boys have stinky feet" smell?

Love this sign.

We saw this in Logan's on Saturday.  I loved it!

It's not all about you!!

People that use traumatic life events to garner attention really need therapy.

It's not all about you.

Quit making it all about you.

This just in...

Apparently, I am *the* worst mother in the world.  I won't let my children have licorice thirty minutes before dinner.  And they are STARVING!!!

*gasp*

I know.  Call CPS now.  I suck.

*giggle*

Really?  Candy entitlement?  What is wrong with these kids?

Lunch

I hate it when I'm hungry for lunch at 10:30 in the morning.  Who am I?  Cameron?  Am I on his school lunch schedule now?  He eats at 10:50.

Weird.

I'm so predictable.

I've been to Cork & Pig Tavern four times now.  And I've ordered the same thing each time.  It's so good.  But dang it - - I need to throw caution to the wind and branch out there.  That salad is good.  But those wood fire pizzas sure looked good.

I'm such a conservative.  So safe.  Time to take a chance.  I'm ordering pizza and a soda next time.  I'm going to be a rebel.

Sit back, relax, scrap...

That is my plan today.  I have a friend coming over and we are going to work on a few kits we each bought.  Easy scrappin'. I'm so looking forward to it.  I need a little scrap therapy.

Facebook - off.
Laptop - closed.
Coffee pot - on.
Darius Rucker's new album - playing.
Life - good.
Calm - happy.

Quick shower then I am going to my happy place.

Squeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Now what?

Have you ever not known what to say or how to respond to something?  And you knew that silence wasn't the answer?

I don't know what to say.

I don't know how to respond.

I am at a loss.

I am conflicted.  Very, very conflicted.

I'm afraid that my silence speaks volumes.  I know it does.  I just don't know how to handle this one.

Good Morning My Lovlies!!

How is everyone this fine Monday morning?

It's quiet here.  I like quiet.  Well, until I turn my iPod on and get back to work.  It seems like my two main cleaning days around this house are Mondays and Fridays.  Mondays are to clean up what happened on Saturday and Sunday.  Fridays are to prepare for Saturday and Sunday.

Laundry is already caught up - - so that's good.

Today - - I've scheduled a date with the Pine-Sol and the boys' bathroom floor.  (Gross.)  Why, why, WHY did we go with such huge grout lines in there?  *smacks self*

Other than that, it's just a bunch of getting things back in order around here.  It shouldn't be too difficult.

I hope you have a great Monday.  I plan on it!

Cleaning Challenge

I've messed around this house long enough this morning.  I have a 10:30 hair appointment.  I need to leave here at 10:15.  I'm going to see just how much work I can get done around here for about the next hour and fifteen minutes.  I work so that I can play.  I will report back what all I got accomplished.  iPod on.  GO!

*B works hard for an hour and ten minutes*

The Results:
1.  Cleaned off the counter tops in the kitchen.
2.  Sorted through mail.
3.  Swept and mopped the kitchen.
4.  Picked up "stuff" scattered throughout the living room.
5.  Made all three beds.
6.  Stopped and scratched Moe on the head.  He's so sweet.  I have to reward sweetness.
7.  Cleaned off my desk.
8.  Started two loads of laundry.  (Folding when I get back home.)
9.  Made a birthday card for my hair stylist.  (Happy Birthday, Shona!)
10.  Took a shower AND shaved my legs.

I am a rockstar.

Time to go get my hair trimmed.  Squeeeeeeeeeeee!

Just another day at the office...

I actually don't mind doing this.  You will notice that I keep my cell phone, the house phone and the remote control handy.  Might as well make it a happy time where you don't have to get up unless you have to pee.  Just for the record - - I particularly love washing and folding the loads of whites.  The bleach smell.  The Gain.  It really makes me happy.  I'm smiling now because there's a load about to finish in the dryer.  Whites.

By the way - - I am one of those weird-o's who can fold a fitted sheet.  I've perfected it.  That makes me smile, too.  My grandmother would have been so proud of me.

I don't match Mr. B's socks though.  I just pile 'em up.  He doesn't care.  I did finally start turning his shirts right side out and not folding them inside out.  I figured he could do without that little bit of passive-aggressiveness on my part.  What can I say?  I'm just nice that way.  It was fun for a while.  Now it just makes me seem mean.

Does my life make you sad?

It shouldn't.  I'm tickled.  Tickled white.

Silly Bands

Chances are, if you have children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren or teach - - you've seen these.  At first, I thought they were cute.  I bought the kids five packages of them.  Big mistake.  Huge.  I've learned the following about silly bands.

1.  They aren't particularly that silly.
2.  Apparently they cause "distractions" at school.  I'm surprised that a letter hasn't been sent home yet banning them.
3.  They seem a little snug on Justin's arm.
4.  The more the merrier.  Whatever...
5.  When I made Cameron take ALL of them off prior to getting in the shower tonight, he found an alternate location for one of them.  He proudly marched his nakey self into the living room to show his daddy.  Yeah.  You can imagine.  I can't post a picture of that.

I hope I don't "accidentally" cut all of those things in half tonight.  I might spare one or two, purely out of pity for my youngest.  He's not wearing them to school again.  I didn't know he had so many up there.  Not until he came home with a crap load of them in a baggy in his backpack.  I'm thinking they were taken away from them.  Oops!

Silly bands.  Why didn't I think of that.  Some dork is rich off of shaping a stupid rubber band.  I wish my brain would tell me things the way Cameron's tells him.

Random Pictures and the Stories Behind Them

I have been just a little stressed out lately.  Nothing major.  Well, kind of major.  But, not unmanageable.  I tried to find some comic relief in the little things today.  I have pictures of some.  Others - - just stories.  So sit back, relax and make sure your mouth is free of liquids.  I don't want to be responsible for anyone frying their keyboard.

This was on a Cadillac in the Wal-Mart parking lot the other day.  For real.  "I believe I can fly..."

I went by Mr. B's office yesterday.  That place was a pig sty.  For someone so particular about the cleanliness of the house - - I was SHOCKED to see how disgusting his office was.  Okay, first of all, let me say that he is in a separate office from the rest of his company.  He is a software developer and needs to be left alone to get work done.  If he's surrounded by tech support or sales people, he can't get anything done.  Anyway, his office doesn't have a kitchen in it.  And instead of taking bowls and stuff with leftovers in it to the bathroom to rinse them out, he opts for leaving them with the lid on, sealed up tight, in his office.  For days.  Sometimes weeks.  Sometimes longer.  He told me he cleaned his office today.  About time.  Except - - this is what he brought home.  And this was his solution.

Yeah.  That was mold.  And lots of it.  Lots of stank, too.  I was horrified.  He thought it could soak in the sink.  I thought this would be a better option:

Often referred to as File 13.  Gross.  Disposable bowl filled with mold.  Get that funk out of my kitchen sink.

After school today, the kids wanted to go by Mr. B's work and say, "hi."  So we called and there was no answer.  We were already by there, so the kids saw his truck.  I figured he was out walking.  (He walks nearly every day.  Such discipline.)  I told them that Daddy was probably busy and we'd just see him after work.  Cameron said, "No, I don't think he's busy.  I think that he is with naked girls."

WHAT?

He went on to say, "Yeah, he's with naked girls.  He's probably kissing their boobies and messing with them."

WHAT?

I said, "CAMERON!  Where would you get that idea?"  He said his brain told him that.

His brain told him.  His five year old brain thinks Daddy goes to work every day and plays with boobs.  Nice.

Mr. B thought it was funny.  What won't be funny is when he tells his Sunday School teacher that.  That should be a real "hoot."  (Heh.  Play on words.  Hoot.  Hooter.  Boobs.  I digress.)

Then there was Moe.  I love capturing pictures of him yawning.  He always looks like he's hissing.  This picture is no exception.

When I went out to my car to get my camera, I saw this:

I would have looked for those forever.  I got tired of wearing them while I was waiting for the boys to get out of school.  I'm all about comfort.  The feet and the sisters weren't meant to be caged.  I'm just sayin'.

I think that's plenty for now.  Have a very happy Friday!!

Just - - wrong.

Have you ever had a day just start out wrong?  That was today for me.  I don't like it when my kids leave the house upset or angry with me.  It's just unsettling.

Lots of things in my life have been unsettling lately.

I know what it means.  It's time to make some serious life changes.  I need to re-think a lot of different things right now.  My actions haven't reflected what I know my priorities should be.  Time to make that change.  Shannon always said, "Calm = Happy."  I believe this.  Time to embrace the calm.  Time to make some tough decisions.  Time to - - move on...

Finished The Hunger Game Series

I really, really enjoyed it.

As expected - - now I am sad.  I miss it.  I always hate for books to end.  I want to stay involved with the characters.  I always hate the last page.  I read it slowly.  Then I nearly cry because it's over.  Is that weird?  It's fiction.

I need a new series.

I have several books on my Kindle now that I could easily read.  Several classics I've never read.  The Scarlet Letter, Pride and Prejudice, etc.  I don't know what to read next.

Any suggestions?  Keep in mind - - I like easy, somewhat mindless stuff.  For the most part.  Maybe that's why I  liked the Twilight series.  Easy reading.  Easy story to follow.  Stupid.  But easy.  And why must I have easy?  It's the only thing that manages to keep my attention.  Do you know how shallow and petty I feel just typing that out?  I need young adult/youth fiction to keep my attention.   Nothing heavy.  That's just - - sad.

And do not say Harry Potter.  I don't know why but I'm not even remotely interested in that series.

Anyone read the Patterson number series?  1st to Die.

My only other requirement in reading is that it be nothing of Nicholas Sparks.  His sap is crap.  And repetitive.  And did I mention, crap?

Hmmmmmmmmm.

Decisions, decisions.

Me

Could someone please help me find the sunshine and rainbows?

Enough is enough.

Public wedgies

I hate it when my underwear takes a road trip to my crack.  In public.  There's no easy way to dig it out and go unnoticed.  It takes super human abilities to do this discreetly.  You can do the lunge walk thingy - - but that usually causes the other side to slide on up into never-never land.  And let's be honest.  Who are we fooling?  We all know that you have a wedge.  Can we just all agree that quick, somewhat discreet wedgie removal is okay?

Alright.  It's not possible.

But I'll tell you this.  I'm not a thong girl.  If my underwear creeps into my crack - - I'm digging it out.  I don't care if I end up on people of Wal-Mart.  Just expect it.  I'll *try* to be discreet.  But if it's crawling - - I'm fixing.

We good?

College Football

I don't think I'll ever fully understand some of this rivalry.  Frankly, I find that it brings out the worst in most people.  I understand rivalry.  Just not obnoxious rivalry.

Take OU/UT.  Give. Me. A. Break.  It annoys me.  Obnoxious fans of any sport annoy me.

What the heck does "boomer" mean anyway?  Boomer Sooner?  Uh, okay.

I can be a pretty obnoxious person.  I just find this level of sports obnoxious-ness quite stupid.  I might have to stay off of Facebook until the game is well over.  I'm so ready for the "Red River Shootout" to be done with already.

Blah, blah, blah...

My Morning.

It is 52 degrees outside.  I'm about to go pour my second cup of coffee and read a little before I get to work on the laundry.  I love these cool fronts.  I'll have to cave later today.  It will be 86.  I'm going to have to close the windows and turn the a/c back on.  It will be nice for the morning though.

Hmmmmmm.  I wonder which movie I ought to watch while I fold clothes today.

Time to go - - my cup is empty.  We can't have that.

Randomness

It's been nice enough to leave the windows open all day.  Right now, it's ideal.  The only problem is noise.  And an abundance of it.  Our neighbors have THE loudest air conditioner.  Ever.  Mr. B has casually mentioned this to them on several occasions.  They said they've had it looked at and it's fine.

It's loud and it drives me crazy.  I'm trying to save money over here by leaving my windows open.

I wonder if they ever open their windows.  I don't think they do.  I wish they would.

Semi-okay day today.  If you discount the cat pee.  One of our females sprayed in Justin's room.  I've spent most of the day with the steam cleaner.  Good times.

Oh - - and Cameron got yellow today.  Apparently he and his little "girlfriend" were having issues talking.  Turd.  I officially declare their "relationship" over.  I am breaking things off for him.  So there.

My desk is messy.  I should clean it.

I'm thirsty.  I'm thinking pink lemonade mixed with diet 7-up.  Mmmmm. Refreshing.  Maybe even a  splash of something else to give it some zing.  *grin*

Justin won't stay in his bed.  He's really testing my patience.

I have another entry I'm going to do later about Mr. B's gas.  Have mercy.  I barely survived yesterday.  I nearly left and got a hotel.  I'll give you the lowdown another time.

That is all.  I gotta go shave my legs.  *wink, wink*  (Did I just over share?  Sorry.  It's just that the neighbor's a/c is really loud.)

Who was that?

Did any of you read that post below?  That's what happens when you panic and let the frustration of life get the better of you.

Don't get me wrong.  The Bray household is in dire need of some changes.  And I plan on implementing them.

I just didn't want everyone to think that I've absolutely lost my mind.  I promise I'm okay.

I'm going to go DVR Survivor, watch later when I can skip over the commercials and just CHILL OUT.

I'm pretty sure I have my idea for my next article now.  I'm going to outline it and write it tomorrow.  B is about to hop on her soapbox!

Love you all!  Thanks.

Pissed Off Post

FYI - I am in a very bad mood.  I'm doing this for me.  I have to get this out of my system.  Don't say you weren't warned.

I FEEL LIKE A COMPLETE FAILURE AS A PARENT AND I QUESTION EVERY DECISION I'VE EVER MADE.

I understand that we can't all have G/T kids.  Frankly, the whole G/T thing pisses me off anyway.  Parents love to flaunt the term and I'm sick of it.  Guess what?  My kids aren't G/T.  My kids don't seem to give a shit about school and I'm frustrated.

I. Blame. Myself.

Major changes are ahead for the B household.  MAJOR.

J - you don't want to do your homework?  Tough stuff.  Suck it up buttercup.  You don't like reading?  That's too bad.  It's a HUGE part of the next twelve years for you.  And, hopefully, at least four more after that.  How is it that he can't remember ANYTHING from last year?  Words like, "at," "in," etc..  Why?  Why doesn't he care?  I can tell you.  It's those damn video games.  That's right.  I said it.  We are paying for not staying on top of it.  Buh-bye XBox.  Buh-bye Wii.  I grew up without that crap and they can, too.  We are cracking the whip around here.  Big time.

Reading is a gift.  The places it can take you in your mind and the things you can learn...  It's so important.  Just try.  Sound it out.  Try.  If you're confused, ask for help.  But at least try.  Don't even say, "I can't" before you open the book.

C - tired?  FREAKING GO TO BED WHEN WE TELL YOU TO!  I couldn't stop him from falling asleep this afternoon.  He's exhausted.  And stop arguing with me.  Your fire drill at school was not at 5:00 today.  You weren't there then.  He had the nerve to call *me* a liar when I corrected him.  Huh?  Trust me.  You did not have your fire drill at 5:00.  Nice try, Mr. Five Year Old Know It All.

Bedtime.  Oh my gosh. Bedtime pisses me off.  Even if you think you've got all your bases covered, it's not enough.  We shower, we brush our teeth, we get one last drink of water, we go to the bathroom, we give hugs.  And without fail - - someone gets back up.  Someone can't shut down.  It's non-stop and I'm sick of it.  Go to bed when I tell you to and you won't be so freaking tired and whiny.  Get it?

Talking back?  When did this get so out of control?  I didn't get away with this crap as a kid.  Why do I let mine get away with it?  These boys are going to learn some freakin' respect even if it kills them.  I WILL NOT RAISE DISRESPECTFUL CHILDREN.  Watch your mouth.  Don't smart off.  Don't raise your voice at me.  Don't argue.  Treat each other with respect.  Treat other people with respect.  Definitely respect grown ups.  Always say "ma'am, sir, please, thank you," etc.

"That's not fair."  Damn right it's not.  Stop saying it.  What's not fair is that I have to hear that phrase no less than eleventy billion times every day.  And considering I'm only with them for a few waking hours every day, this is a lot.

Don't like what's for dinner?  Again - - tough.  At least you have food.  And I know it's good food.  I'm D.O.N.E. making an alternate meal for either kid.  Done.  You will not live on Mac 'n Cheese alone while you live in my house.  Get it?

I'm sure there's more.  Somehow I feel like I've said plenty already.

Please don't report me to CPS.  I do not wish harm on my children.  What I do wish is for them to learn to become responsible, successful human beings.  I feel a tremendous amount of pressure to equip them.  And I feel like I am failing miserably.

Please know that I'm not looking for validation here.  I'm not looking for "oh poor you" or "you are a good parent."  I just needed to get this stuff off of my chest.

If you're still with me - - do you think I've lost my mind?

Still Here

I believe they call all of this nonsense "Life."  And it's been crazy.

If things truly come in "threes" then I should be all caught up and ready to perk up.

First I lose Shannon.  Major suckage.  That's gonna take a while to get over.  But each day is a little better.  Don't get me wrong.  I miss her like CRAZY!  I also know that she would want me to move on with my life.  So - - I'm doing that.  One day at a time.

Then Justin broke his wrist.  He's been casted, no surgery.  It is his right hand and he is right-handed.  He's adapting to writing.  But you know what he doesn't do well with his left hand?  Wipe.  I know, gross.  Sorry.  So guess who's back in the hiney-wiping business?  That would be me.  Fun!  (written once again in my non-existent sarcasm font)  He's not hurting that much anymore, so I think we are good to go.  Just a total pain not getting it wet.  Did I mention I'm having to bathe him, too?

To top it all off, I went to bed Monday night feeling like total dookie.  I'd been hurting in my lower back and then I was terribly nauseated.  For me - classic onset of a kidney stone moving.  Terrific!  (again with the font)  I was in incredible pain ALL day yesterday.  It's getting so much better.  Still hurting in my back, but not nearly as bad.  I don't know if I passed that little sucker or not.  My last sonogram said that the one left in my kidney was a very small one.  I hope it's gone.

And here we are today.  First day of fall.  I wake up to a gentle rain.  Woo hoo!  The only thing that would make today more perfect is if I didn't have to get out in it.  But alas, a school thingy beckons.

Time to hit the shower.

I love you, Sheldon.

I'm sorry kids...

...but I've watched Hoarder's.  Closet/toy culling is a necessary part of my life.  I'm guessing you will each notice that your closets are clean.  I don't think you are going to miss a thing.

I still say that kid's meal toys are the bane of my existence.  I wish they'd just knock a quarter off the price and call it good.  We don't need that crap.  I have a trash can full to prove it.

Very Weird

I had to pick Justin up early from school.  The day had already been a little much for him.  To add insult to injury (pun intended) I drug him to Wal-Mart with me.  We are taking dinner to some friends tonight and we were just downright low on some of our basics.  For the record, I HATE taking any kid with me to Wallyworld.  It had to be done, so we went.

When I parked, this is what I saw:

Uh, yeah.  I can't help but wonder what happened here.

I'm a chick and I know NOT to drive on a tire like that.  You don't drive on a flat.  Period.  My dad DRILLED that into my teenage brain when I first started driving.  This is a huge no-no.

Okay.  A purse.  With a visible wallet.  Huh?  Lots of stuff in the back of this truck.  The purse was there when I went in and there when I returned.  People steal purses in this store from shopping carts.  This one was certainly not being guarded.  

This is Justin on our way home.  He managed something of a smile for me.  I think he was just happy that we were leaving and that I snagged a *gasp* Lunchable for him.

So - - will the truck above be on some sort of unsolved mysteries show someday?

It was just - - weird.

I'm telling you.  This had to involve either a kidnapping or someone that was more than high or drunk.  I can't wrap my mind around this one.

Dear Hot Flashes

Dear Hot Flashes,

You suck.

I am not in the mood for you today.  Please leave.

Bite me,
B

I did it!!!

Okay.

*deep breath*

A few of you know a little about this.  I didn't want to get the cart before the horse and get rejected.  It would have been so embarrassing.

But - - I did it!

I submitted a portfolio to the local paper to be considered for contract photography.  I was given a test assignment over the weekend.  I went and shot pictures on Saturday morning.  (I practiced a high school night football game, too. Eek. The lighting. More practice needed there.)  I digress.  I shot photos of opening day of youth flag football.

I came home.  Edited.  Captioned ten of my best pictures.  Submitted.  Then held my breath.

No word yesterday.

*sigh*

No word today.

Already distracted by Bones, but, *bigger sigh*

Then, at 7:15 tonight, I got *the* e-mail.  Here is an excerpt from my editor:

Thank you. That turned out nice. I appreciate the effort you put into getting everything done right and on time. I will use your pictures Sunday as part of our Got Game page. I hope to find more opportunities for you to shoot during the week.

 *insert maniacal screaming here*

That's right.  As of Sunday, I will be a published photographer.  Shannon - - I did it.  I DID IT!  She encouraged me and believed in me.  I was able to share my opportunity with her before she passed away.  I could feel her smiling down on me as I read the e-mail.

*smiling through tears*

Bones

Bones.  That's my new nickname for Justin.  I honor of the two he broke at school this morning.

That's right.  "Bones" broke not one, but two bones in his wrist this morning at school.  He was on the monkey bars and fell.  He landed right on his wrist.

I just happened to be up at the school buying both boys books at the book fair.  I was walking with Cameron down to the playground to find Justin so that I could show him his books.  He came around the corner crying and holding his wrist.  His teacher was shocked to see me and asked how I got there so fast.  I can't believe I was there when it happened.

We went to the school nurse who examined it while I took Cameron back to his class.  She said she was pretty sure it was broken and sent us to the emergency room.  Mr. B met us down there.

After some x-rays, they came back in and told us that it was a "green stick fracture" in both bones of his wrist.  On his right hand.  And yes, he is right-handed.  They gave him some meds that made him loopy and then splinted it up.  We have a call in with an orthopedic surgeon to follow up.  There is some swelling now.  That's why they didn't cast it.

So.  That's where we stand today.  My first-grader, who has written homework everyday except Friday, can't write.  *awesome*  (That awesome part was written in my imaginary sarcasm font.)

He's uncomfortable, but not completely miserable.

Since I am a scrapbooker at heart - - I snagged a few pictures.  (I always carry my little camera with me.)  Here you go...

Here he is once we were put into a room.

His first ride in a wheel chair.  Here he is coming back from x-ray.

Splinting it up.

He was so funny when the meds started kicking in.

Resting in his Daddy's chair.  Shortly after this, the pain meds wore off.  He's since been re-dosed.

This mommy has had enough.  Stuff happens.  I'm not angry with anyone.  He was just being a kid.  But seriously, I don't want to go back to another hospital for a long time.  And I want his pain to GO AWAY.

The Highlight of My Day

Picking up these two guys from school.

I mean, really - - how sweet is this?

The Hunger Games

Shannon recommended it.  I finished it tonight and I absolutely loved it.  I *so* want to talk about it with her.  I think I understand her connection with this book.

Anyone else read it and want to discuss it?

Moving on and Healing

Guess what I did today.  I'm not blonde anymore.  And the gray is a thing of the past.  (For now.)  It's dark. Real dark.  I love it.  I've decided that I really like the dark better than the light.  It's more me.  More the real me.

I have something else exciting on the horizon.  I can't really go into it right now.  Just an opportunity that I've wanted for a long time.  I test the waters this weekend.  I'm not sure when I'll get my feedback.  I'm not even sure, once I get there, that it's what I really want to do.  I won't know unless I try.  So wish me luck and I'll talk about it later.  I feel like, at this point, that as long as I try - - I succeed.

The tears don't flow as often.  It doesn't mean I don't think about her.  I think about her all of the time.  I don't feel as consumed about the tragedy of it all.  I hate it. And I'm still angry that she was taken away from me.  It's not fair.  But she wouldn't want me to wallow in it and she wouldn't want my blog entries to all be dark and sad.  She was one of my biggest fans around this place.  And her presence is already missed.  A lot.

I guess you can say that I'm healing.  I don't feel so raw and exposed anymore.  Life goes on.  And I intend to live it to its fullest.

Yoda - - miss you like crazy, I do.  Inspire me, you always will.