I came, I saw, I about passed out from the heat. Luckily I was wearing my hot pink tankini and jumped in the pool in between my "Julie, the Cruise Director" moments.
Here's the picture.... me with clipboard in hand greeting guests at the "lido" deck.
"Hi! I'm so glad you are here (insert child's name)! What would you like for lunch? Hamburger, Cheeseburger or Hot Dog? Great! The drop off table for presents is under the tent and you can put your pool bag on the benches"
Turning to parents (smiles/hugs/kisses as determinined by level of acquaintance, friendship and/or length of time seeing me be a complete goofball...kisses for the latter)
1) Can I have a number where you can be reached?
2) I've got your number on my cell, see you at 1PM and have fun!
3) You are staying??? Great! Adult beverages are in the blue cooler and what would you like for lunch? Hamburger, cheeseburger or hot dog? No.....there is no steak or grilled fish. Try Houlihan's.... funny...haha"
The party in short was fantastic. The kids had a blast and so did the adults, especially when Mr. Kyle did his amazing pyro act with the grill. It was freakin hot, but I stayed cool (see above).
I scored major mommy points for organization and execution of a party for 30 boys. And the treasure chest cake that I lifted from Family Fun...awesome!!! This is good, because first off no one wandered off or was hurt, therefore avoiding a call to search and rescue. And other than one child's cherry toe, that was easily mended by DH, we were accident free. But it also means I may need to go undercover next year at the PTA meetings. Oh hell, who am I kidding. I've been with these parents for 6 years now. They know my weaknesses.
This morning, I was up bright and early, getting bagels for the road prepared and we did the trade off with my parents at high noon at Cracker Barrel, halfway between points of destination.
Lots and lots of good quality conversation between me and DH on the way back. Funny, this is how it will be for two weeks, a return to the land before time, ie BK, before kids.
I'm going to make the most of this time, for me and my marriage. But I do confess, I miss the little stinkers already and so does Jake the wonder dog!
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Friday, July 14, 2006
T Minus...........
20.5 hours and counting until (30) 7-8 year olds invade my neighborhood pool for a birthday party.
Pirate themed of course. "It's Captain. Captain Jack Sparrow" for a joint birthday party with my youngest son and his good friend.
Am I insane? Why yes!!! Thank you for asking...have a mint on your way out.
At this point I am in full party lock down mode. I have vague urges prompting me to crawl into some cool, dark place and rock myself to sleep. And I'm going to wrap myself in my nice cozy Excel Spreadsheet that has all the attendees names, cell phones and lunch orders.
I would zone out, but the treasure chest cake still needs to be iced.
Why? Why am I doing this???
Because last time this year, only 2 of my son's friends came and his co host buddy?? 15 of his friends showed up.
C was crushed. Not about the presents, but about the friends.
"Why didn't they come?"
And I explained the whole "It's summer and everyone is on vacation and you really do have LOTS of friends" (which he does....he has a more active social schedule in a month than I do in a year)
So I invited ALL his friends this year. Scouts, class, baseball, outside class friends.
Just EVER SO slightly more than last year and almost EVERYONE is coming.
This year, NO ONE is out of town.
NO ONE
help
I've already told him that he can't keep all those presents. It's just insane and not right. He suggested the community action center. Good boy, good choice.
And the morning after the party, I pack my two boys in Big Red, drive to a half way point in FL, give them to my rents for two weeks and drive back.
And?
WHAT?
You think I have a plan for what follows?
I have no plans other than return, collapse, wake up, go to work and for the first time in almost 10 years, NOT have a plan for the rest of the day.
I may sink, I may swim, my bets are on floundering, lots of floundering.
I'll report back sometime next week.
If you don't hear from me in a week...send out an advance party and bring a stretcher.
YoHoHo...where's the bottle of rum???
******************************************
Disclaimer, lest you all think I ENJOY inflicting pain on myself.
I ENJOY throwing a good party more. I love seeing folks of all ages smiling and hanging and laughing and getting outside themselves.
At the end of the day? I will be wiped, cause it is FREAKIN hot here in GA and the blanket is not a spreadsheet but humidity.
BUT, I will also have had a rockin good time with all the other adults at the party and my kids and their friends will have a memory of a time when life was good and simple and sweet.
Cause really in the end...it's just burgers and cake and friends swimming in the pool
And THAT is good stuff
Pirate themed of course. "It's Captain. Captain Jack Sparrow" for a joint birthday party with my youngest son and his good friend.
Am I insane? Why yes!!! Thank you for asking...have a mint on your way out.
At this point I am in full party lock down mode. I have vague urges prompting me to crawl into some cool, dark place and rock myself to sleep. And I'm going to wrap myself in my nice cozy Excel Spreadsheet that has all the attendees names, cell phones and lunch orders.
I would zone out, but the treasure chest cake still needs to be iced.
Why? Why am I doing this???
Because last time this year, only 2 of my son's friends came and his co host buddy?? 15 of his friends showed up.
C was crushed. Not about the presents, but about the friends.
"Why didn't they come?"
And I explained the whole "It's summer and everyone is on vacation and you really do have LOTS of friends" (which he does....he has a more active social schedule in a month than I do in a year)
So I invited ALL his friends this year. Scouts, class, baseball, outside class friends.
Just EVER SO slightly more than last year and almost EVERYONE is coming.
This year, NO ONE is out of town.
NO ONE
help
I've already told him that he can't keep all those presents. It's just insane and not right. He suggested the community action center. Good boy, good choice.
And the morning after the party, I pack my two boys in Big Red, drive to a half way point in FL, give them to my rents for two weeks and drive back.
And?
WHAT?
You think I have a plan for what follows?
I have no plans other than return, collapse, wake up, go to work and for the first time in almost 10 years, NOT have a plan for the rest of the day.
I may sink, I may swim, my bets are on floundering, lots of floundering.
I'll report back sometime next week.
If you don't hear from me in a week...send out an advance party and bring a stretcher.
YoHoHo...where's the bottle of rum???
******************************************
Disclaimer, lest you all think I ENJOY inflicting pain on myself.
I ENJOY throwing a good party more. I love seeing folks of all ages smiling and hanging and laughing and getting outside themselves.
At the end of the day? I will be wiped, cause it is FREAKIN hot here in GA and the blanket is not a spreadsheet but humidity.
BUT, I will also have had a rockin good time with all the other adults at the party and my kids and their friends will have a memory of a time when life was good and simple and sweet.
Cause really in the end...it's just burgers and cake and friends swimming in the pool
And THAT is good stuff
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Adventures in Dermatology
or why having to choose an HMO doctor sucks.
So I go to my little group insurance website to find a dermatologist because..................
Warning...if you are squeamish and don't have a sense of humor??? Stop reading now and go blog elsewhere.
A) I've got this itchy white rash on my neck, that rears it's ugly head every few years, having first blessed me with it's "presence' at the tender age of 12.
and
B) Acne. WTF?????? I'm freakin 45 years old. At some point between the grey hair and emerging wrinkles....acne should NOT be on the list of beauty maintenance concerns.
CRAP
So I go like a good little doobie to my HMO approved dermatologist,(who lives within walking proximity) and am told in the course of a 10 minute consult that
A) Adult onset acne is more common than puberty acne.
Oh realllllly??? Since when? Cause I'm looking at photos of my ancestors at my age and they didn't have acne and they didn't have makeup or photoshop, so WHAT gives???
and
B)That itcy white rash on my neck. Uhhmmm...yeah, there's no getting rid of it permanently. The stuff that causes it? Is everywhere. It just happens to like my skin. A lot. Oh great...THIS is what wins me a freakin popularity award???
oh and to cap it off
C) I have a flippin printout with (6), yes that is SIX prescriptions to cure my ails. Okay doing the math, 6 scrips times a $30 co-pay and the $25 office visit fee and I'm over $200 with no guarantee that any of this will work.
Can you say hosed?
Can you say homey don't play this game?
yeah...that's what I said.
Six scrips my a#$
So I go to my little group insurance website to find a dermatologist because..................
Warning...if you are squeamish and don't have a sense of humor??? Stop reading now and go blog elsewhere.
A) I've got this itchy white rash on my neck, that rears it's ugly head every few years, having first blessed me with it's "presence' at the tender age of 12.
and
B) Acne. WTF?????? I'm freakin 45 years old. At some point between the grey hair and emerging wrinkles....acne should NOT be on the list of beauty maintenance concerns.
CRAP
So I go like a good little doobie to my HMO approved dermatologist,(who lives within walking proximity) and am told in the course of a 10 minute consult that
A) Adult onset acne is more common than puberty acne.
Oh realllllly??? Since when? Cause I'm looking at photos of my ancestors at my age and they didn't have acne and they didn't have makeup or photoshop, so WHAT gives???
and
B)That itcy white rash on my neck. Uhhmmm...yeah, there's no getting rid of it permanently. The stuff that causes it? Is everywhere. It just happens to like my skin. A lot. Oh great...THIS is what wins me a freakin popularity award???
oh and to cap it off
C) I have a flippin printout with (6), yes that is SIX prescriptions to cure my ails. Okay doing the math, 6 scrips times a $30 co-pay and the $25 office visit fee and I'm over $200 with no guarantee that any of this will work.
Can you say hosed?
Can you say homey don't play this game?
yeah...that's what I said.
Six scrips my a#$
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Child of My Heart
She is coming.
This week-end.
There are two young ladies in my life who are like my own children.
Child(ren) of my heart, but not of my womb. Although I don't really think the womb makes that much difference. They are still mine. I will share. Read on.
The oldest, she is so much like her father, both in appearance and oh so under the radar snarky humor. She is quietly, charmingly witty And beautiful, classic, very old world beauty. She looks like a Dutch master painting. And when she feels comfortable with you, the full measure of her intelligence and her charm astound you.
The youngest, she is an artist. A dreamer. A writer. She is also a beauty.... like her mother. And if her beauty was only at the surface, it would merely stop you in your tracks. But it is what lies beneath that takes your breath away.
These two are going to make the world a better place. They are the daughters I did not have.
I always knew I wanted children. Even at the age of 12, I knew I wanted to be a mom. And I always, always wanted boys. And I got my heart's desire with BamBam and Thumper.
But before that, I was given what I needed.
Girls.
These girls? These children of my heart?
They were given to me by their mother, my dear friend of 20 years.
They arrived on the scene years before my raucous posse of boy-men invaded my realm.
I was there, waiting for them to come home, when they were born.
I held their tiny newborn heads in my hands and marvelled at the elegant length of their fingers and their rosy red lips and the sheer perfection of their newborn skin.
With the youngest, DH and other friends made a mad dash to finish up her nursery 24 hours before she was due home.
We called it "Operation Laying the Floors while They're at the Doors"
We've had a lot of fun with that one through the years. Especially since her daddy is a minister at a growing Presbyterian church and her mom is in her last year of seminary. These two, this couple, are and will always be a rockin team. Two for one never had so much meaning.
But I digress, back to "my" girls.
I held their fingers as they toddled. I swayed and rocked with them when they were fretful and their parents were tired. I played endless make believe games and cuddled with them in the pews of church while they drew me works of art that still hang in my office.
My long hair has been styled more ways than J-Lo's.
I have watched their fingers dance across a piano and their bodies skip across a stage.
I've listened to their voices soar in children's choir. And I still try to listen, really listen as they share with me, their fears and dreams.
It is such an awesome responsibility and privilege to share this journey with them. These children of my heart.
And now my "baby" girl is coming for the week-end, from a distance of only 1.5 hours away. Because she needs to be reminded that she is still special and unique and precious, despite being supplanted as the "baby", by a BOY, no less!!!!
So we shall go and get a pedicure, and have tea, window shop, make art and just be girls.
And we will also...............
talk about the day she came home from the hospital
and the day she first sang in the choir
and the art that still hangs in my office
and the place she has in my life.
And I'm sure someone's hair is not going to look like it did on Friday!
And she will always, and forever be....a child of my heart.
This week-end.
There are two young ladies in my life who are like my own children.
Child(ren) of my heart, but not of my womb. Although I don't really think the womb makes that much difference. They are still mine. I will share. Read on.
The oldest, she is so much like her father, both in appearance and oh so under the radar snarky humor. She is quietly, charmingly witty And beautiful, classic, very old world beauty. She looks like a Dutch master painting. And when she feels comfortable with you, the full measure of her intelligence and her charm astound you.
The youngest, she is an artist. A dreamer. A writer. She is also a beauty.... like her mother. And if her beauty was only at the surface, it would merely stop you in your tracks. But it is what lies beneath that takes your breath away.
These two are going to make the world a better place. They are the daughters I did not have.
I always knew I wanted children. Even at the age of 12, I knew I wanted to be a mom. And I always, always wanted boys. And I got my heart's desire with BamBam and Thumper.
But before that, I was given what I needed.
Girls.
These girls? These children of my heart?
They were given to me by their mother, my dear friend of 20 years.
They arrived on the scene years before my raucous posse of boy-men invaded my realm.
I was there, waiting for them to come home, when they were born.
I held their tiny newborn heads in my hands and marvelled at the elegant length of their fingers and their rosy red lips and the sheer perfection of their newborn skin.
With the youngest, DH and other friends made a mad dash to finish up her nursery 24 hours before she was due home.
We called it "Operation Laying the Floors while They're at the Doors"
We've had a lot of fun with that one through the years. Especially since her daddy is a minister at a growing Presbyterian church and her mom is in her last year of seminary. These two, this couple, are and will always be a rockin team. Two for one never had so much meaning.
But I digress, back to "my" girls.
I held their fingers as they toddled. I swayed and rocked with them when they were fretful and their parents were tired. I played endless make believe games and cuddled with them in the pews of church while they drew me works of art that still hang in my office.
My long hair has been styled more ways than J-Lo's.
I have watched their fingers dance across a piano and their bodies skip across a stage.
I've listened to their voices soar in children's choir. And I still try to listen, really listen as they share with me, their fears and dreams.
It is such an awesome responsibility and privilege to share this journey with them. These children of my heart.
And now my "baby" girl is coming for the week-end, from a distance of only 1.5 hours away. Because she needs to be reminded that she is still special and unique and precious, despite being supplanted as the "baby", by a BOY, no less!!!!
So we shall go and get a pedicure, and have tea, window shop, make art and just be girls.
And we will also...............
talk about the day she came home from the hospital
and the day she first sang in the choir
and the art that still hangs in my office
and the place she has in my life.
And I'm sure someone's hair is not going to look like it did on Friday!
And she will always, and forever be....a child of my heart.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Who needs lead time
for a birthday party when your mom can create invites like this?
(Maybe I SHOULD make a layout of all their summer birthday invites. If I could just find them!)
and the layout? It's already done (in my head at least). Invite on the right, photo on left, very CZ.
I bow to the wonderfulness that is my graphic designer friend!
(Maybe I SHOULD make a layout of all their summer birthday invites. If I could just find them!)
and the layout? It's already done (in my head at least). Invite on the right, photo on left, very CZ.
I bow to the wonderfulness that is my graphic designer friend!
Monday, June 19, 2006
The "Bug"
I've got it. I don't know quite what to do with it. But I tell you it has hit me hard and fast.
That would be THE decorating bug, or redecorating bug.
No piece of furniture or blank wall is safe in this house.
And my kids are willing enablers.
"Mommy? Can I paint my room next week-end?"
"Mom, I want to move my furniture. Look, I drew it all out. Will it fit?"
Next week-end....Benjamin Moore's Soft Pumpkin is slated to hit mine and DH's bedroom walls. We are going for a simple Zen like Asian feel.
The boy's bathroom is going to get a coat of Marine Blue.
God only knows what will hit the walls the week-end after that.
Change....color....it is a GOOD thing!
That would be THE decorating bug, or redecorating bug.
No piece of furniture or blank wall is safe in this house.
And my kids are willing enablers.
"Mommy? Can I paint my room next week-end?"
"Mom, I want to move my furniture. Look, I drew it all out. Will it fit?"
Next week-end....Benjamin Moore's Soft Pumpkin is slated to hit mine and DH's bedroom walls. We are going for a simple Zen like Asian feel.
The boy's bathroom is going to get a coat of Marine Blue.
God only knows what will hit the walls the week-end after that.
Change....color....it is a GOOD thing!
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Father's Day Recap
(as told by the wife)
Sleep in.
Sleep in some more.
Sniff, sniff. UUUUHHHMMMM, that's DW makes cinnamon chocolate chip waffles. Yawn, stretch, stumble downstairs. First bite....sigh....yummy.
Drink coffee. Uhhhmmmm, sigh. Blink, blink. ( Jake did what??? He ate your Tevas???? Sigh)
Open gifts. Get teary over handmade accordion fold card made by DW and sons.
Go to TarJay with family. Buy new vacuum. WEEHOO, DW loves new vacuum (and secretly so do I. It does everything except balance the check book. And with a couple of modifications could probably do basic algorithms)
Go grocery shopping with family. Steak, potatoes, corn, asparagus all to be roasted to nutty perfection by DW.
Come home. Assemble and help DW test drive new vacuum through out house. (I'm the heavy lifter, ie mover of furniture)
DUHHHHHAYYYYYYM, there's enough dog hair in that dump filter to knit a sweater.
Rearrange furniture in master bedroom at behest of DW. Why? You have to ask why???? Oh hey, sweeeeeeeeeet, bonus!! Can get into bed without banging shin on bureau.
But wait! It's change and change is not good, unless DW tells you it is good. Then you pretend it is good, until you forget that it wasn't always good. And then...wait...what was the question anyway???
Watch US Open while snuggling on sofa with sons. Tiger didn't make the cut, first Father's Day without his dad. Too much pressure this year. He'll come back. He's a dad now too.
Eat roasted to perfection dinner in front of TV, watching US Open and snuggling sons on sofa. SWWWWEEEEEETTT!
Go see my Dad with gifts and really cool handmade card made by DW. Does your DW make handmade Father's Day cards for you to give to your Dad? Bonus points for me!
And the night is still young.
It's good to be a dad.
(or at least that's MY interpretation of his day)
Sleep in.
Sleep in some more.
Sniff, sniff. UUUUHHHMMMM, that's DW makes cinnamon chocolate chip waffles. Yawn, stretch, stumble downstairs. First bite....sigh....yummy.
Drink coffee. Uhhhmmmm, sigh. Blink, blink. ( Jake did what??? He ate your Tevas???? Sigh)
Open gifts. Get teary over handmade accordion fold card made by DW and sons.
Go to TarJay with family. Buy new vacuum. WEEHOO, DW loves new vacuum (and secretly so do I. It does everything except balance the check book. And with a couple of modifications could probably do basic algorithms)
Go grocery shopping with family. Steak, potatoes, corn, asparagus all to be roasted to nutty perfection by DW.
Come home. Assemble and help DW test drive new vacuum through out house. (I'm the heavy lifter, ie mover of furniture)
DUHHHHHAYYYYYYM, there's enough dog hair in that dump filter to knit a sweater.
Rearrange furniture in master bedroom at behest of DW. Why? You have to ask why???? Oh hey, sweeeeeeeeeet, bonus!! Can get into bed without banging shin on bureau.
But wait! It's change and change is not good, unless DW tells you it is good. Then you pretend it is good, until you forget that it wasn't always good. And then...wait...what was the question anyway???
Watch US Open while snuggling on sofa with sons. Tiger didn't make the cut, first Father's Day without his dad. Too much pressure this year. He'll come back. He's a dad now too.
Eat roasted to perfection dinner in front of TV, watching US Open and snuggling sons on sofa. SWWWWEEEEEETTT!
Go see my Dad with gifts and really cool handmade card made by DW. Does your DW make handmade Father's Day cards for you to give to your Dad? Bonus points for me!
And the night is still young.
It's good to be a dad.
(or at least that's MY interpretation of his day)
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
True Blue
True blue
What does that mean to you?
from dictionary.com it means
Loyal, faithful, as in You can count on her support; she's true blue. This expression alludes to the idea of blue being the color of constancy, but the exact allusion is disputed. One theory holds it alludes to the unchanging blue sky, another to the fastness of a blue dye that will not run. Blue has been the identifying color of various factions in history. In the mid-1600s the Scottish Covenanters, who pledged to uphold Presbyterianism, were called true blue (as opposed to red, the color of the royalists). In the 1800s the same term came to mean "staunchly Tory," and in America, "politically sound."
I'm a word geek. I love words. I love the nuances. I love how, with just the right word, you can say so much, with so little.
Which brings me to the word or should I say phrase of the day.
True Blue.
First of all I LOVE the Scottish connection. WOOT...shoutout to my daddy's side of the family.
So why this phrase?
Because my boys brought home the hardware or software in the form of ribbons, from last night's swim meet. My boys? They placed first in every single event in which they were entered. 4 blue ribbons each.
And because my boys showed me once again how much heart, how true blue, they are at their core.
I can't take too much credit here, or can I?
I really think most of what they are...it is innate and I should be used to this by now. Yes Lisa, you have fish for children. They come by it honestly. Yes Lisa, your boys seem to have some internal moral compass that you support.
Okay so that's the nature.
And then there's the nurture, which I and their daddy and extended family and caregivers and so on and so forth can totally take credit for collectively as a whole.
Nature vs Nurture. Why is this an either or? It's not. It's a delicate dance between the two.
A delicate dance that takes my breath away.
Swim team. It's just summer league folks, I know that. But there are some seriously powerful life lessons bubbling to the surface, along the rough and wet decks of any neighborhood pool, on any given evening on swim meet nights.
Watching my boys? It's how I think I would feel if I could swim with dolphins. (strangely enough that's our team mascot)
They are so sure of their strength and their ability, my boys.
The leap off the block, the arch as they parallel the surface, the slice through the water, the smooth, powerful stroke of their little boys arms. It is pure bliss to behold.
Bliss I tell you. Bliss and awe. THAT was formed in my womb? THAT carries my DNA? THAT is it's OWN complete and totally unique being? ROCK ON!
Mommy induced hormone seque over, we return to present day.
It is what happens after the race that inspires this blogging moment(s)
When my little boys drape their arms around their team mates who didn't win and say "You ALMOST beat me and I bet you might beat me next time."
When one of my boys hears another team mate start a little "trash" talkin about the other team (we're undefeated)and steps in and says,"It's not nice to say mean things. I have friends on that team"
Followed by, just so you know my kids, like their momma are NOT perfect "Did I say you could play with my Gameboy? NO! GIVE it to me MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!"
When through sheer will, your boys swim up an age level in a relay, and win some critical points for the team. "Sure Coach Celeste. I'll swim. What stroke am I doing? Am I only going 25 yards? Okay cool. Can I throw you in the pool if we win??"
That's heart.
That's strength.
THAT'S true blue.
What does that mean to you?
from dictionary.com it means
Loyal, faithful, as in You can count on her support; she's true blue. This expression alludes to the idea of blue being the color of constancy, but the exact allusion is disputed. One theory holds it alludes to the unchanging blue sky, another to the fastness of a blue dye that will not run. Blue has been the identifying color of various factions in history. In the mid-1600s the Scottish Covenanters, who pledged to uphold Presbyterianism, were called true blue (as opposed to red, the color of the royalists). In the 1800s the same term came to mean "staunchly Tory," and in America, "politically sound."
I'm a word geek. I love words. I love the nuances. I love how, with just the right word, you can say so much, with so little.
Which brings me to the word or should I say phrase of the day.
True Blue.
First of all I LOVE the Scottish connection. WOOT...shoutout to my daddy's side of the family.
So why this phrase?
Because my boys brought home the hardware or software in the form of ribbons, from last night's swim meet. My boys? They placed first in every single event in which they were entered. 4 blue ribbons each.
And because my boys showed me once again how much heart, how true blue, they are at their core.
I can't take too much credit here, or can I?
I really think most of what they are...it is innate and I should be used to this by now. Yes Lisa, you have fish for children. They come by it honestly. Yes Lisa, your boys seem to have some internal moral compass that you support.
Okay so that's the nature.
And then there's the nurture, which I and their daddy and extended family and caregivers and so on and so forth can totally take credit for collectively as a whole.
Nature vs Nurture. Why is this an either or? It's not. It's a delicate dance between the two.
A delicate dance that takes my breath away.
Swim team. It's just summer league folks, I know that. But there are some seriously powerful life lessons bubbling to the surface, along the rough and wet decks of any neighborhood pool, on any given evening on swim meet nights.
Watching my boys? It's how I think I would feel if I could swim with dolphins. (strangely enough that's our team mascot)
They are so sure of their strength and their ability, my boys.
The leap off the block, the arch as they parallel the surface, the slice through the water, the smooth, powerful stroke of their little boys arms. It is pure bliss to behold.
Bliss I tell you. Bliss and awe. THAT was formed in my womb? THAT carries my DNA? THAT is it's OWN complete and totally unique being? ROCK ON!
Mommy induced hormone seque over, we return to present day.
It is what happens after the race that inspires this blogging moment(s)
When my little boys drape their arms around their team mates who didn't win and say "You ALMOST beat me and I bet you might beat me next time."
When one of my boys hears another team mate start a little "trash" talkin about the other team (we're undefeated)and steps in and says,"It's not nice to say mean things. I have friends on that team"
Followed by, just so you know my kids, like their momma are NOT perfect "Did I say you could play with my Gameboy? NO! GIVE it to me MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!"
When through sheer will, your boys swim up an age level in a relay, and win some critical points for the team. "Sure Coach Celeste. I'll swim. What stroke am I doing? Am I only going 25 yards? Okay cool. Can I throw you in the pool if we win??"
That's heart.
That's strength.
THAT'S true blue.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Evite
Evite.com......what in the world did I do before you came into my life??!!
I LOVE evite!!
You would think for a girl that loves all things paper that an electronic email invitation would be the last thing that would tickle my fancy.
But tickle it does! Honestly, when you are inviting LARGE numbers of people to parties and you have LOTS of parties, the amount you save in postage and cards alone is enough to buy a keg of beer or case of wine for every party or mucho primo cheese!
And then there's the whole instant gratification thing of knowing when people have VIEWED your invite and then all the glorious email responses!!
Oh....and no more, lost in the mail, hurt feelings, etc.
If I see someone hasn't viewed it within a week of it going out, I call them and say "Hey, girlfriend, check your dang email every once in awhile" HEH
Right now in my rotation, I have Connor's "Pieces O' Eight" Pirate Birthday party, a Wednesday night cook-out and a Meet & Greet at the pool for our House of Representatives rep.
Full email inbox....makes me happy!
I LOVE evite!!
You would think for a girl that loves all things paper that an electronic email invitation would be the last thing that would tickle my fancy.
But tickle it does! Honestly, when you are inviting LARGE numbers of people to parties and you have LOTS of parties, the amount you save in postage and cards alone is enough to buy a keg of beer or case of wine for every party or mucho primo cheese!
And then there's the whole instant gratification thing of knowing when people have VIEWED your invite and then all the glorious email responses!!
Oh....and no more, lost in the mail, hurt feelings, etc.
If I see someone hasn't viewed it within a week of it going out, I call them and say "Hey, girlfriend, check your dang email every once in awhile" HEH
Right now in my rotation, I have Connor's "Pieces O' Eight" Pirate Birthday party, a Wednesday night cook-out and a Meet & Greet at the pool for our House of Representatives rep.
Full email inbox....makes me happy!
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Football?
So here in this region known as the Deep South of the good ole U S of A, we have this thang called Football.
Which involves lots of big boys/men smashing into each other, whilst legions of hardcore fans engage in professional drinking contests, high priced haggling over tickets and debates over who has the most kick ass tailgate spread.
Then we have the rest of the world.
As in World Cup....soccer as we like to call it across the pond.
And lest you think that we, in the land of Dixie, are completely ignorant bafoons, "football" south of the Mason Dixon line is hotter than a wool coat on a July day.
Case in point.
Hubby goes to play church league softball today at a big sports complex that is usually also teeming with similarily age specific soccer players.
Today? Nadda. They are all at home, coozie in hand (one would presume) watching the World Cup.
At least according to the folks who run said primo sports facility.
HEH
Today.... US of A vs the Czech Republic 12PM EST ABC
Play on!
Which involves lots of big boys/men smashing into each other, whilst legions of hardcore fans engage in professional drinking contests, high priced haggling over tickets and debates over who has the most kick ass tailgate spread.
Then we have the rest of the world.
As in World Cup....soccer as we like to call it across the pond.
And lest you think that we, in the land of Dixie, are completely ignorant bafoons, "football" south of the Mason Dixon line is hotter than a wool coat on a July day.
Case in point.
Hubby goes to play church league softball today at a big sports complex that is usually also teeming with similarily age specific soccer players.
Today? Nadda. They are all at home, coozie in hand (one would presume) watching the World Cup.
At least according to the folks who run said primo sports facility.
HEH
Today.... US of A vs the Czech Republic 12PM EST ABC
Play on!
Ticket to Ride
So I'm sitting here rifling through this PILE of invites my kiddos have received for summer birthday parties, class get togethers, scouting soirees and I start thinking to myself (which is kind of a dangerous thing)
Self? When did your offspring start having a more active social life than you have?
And then I remembered, it all started with "play dates" And that was SEVEN years ago for my oldest son.
Which started me on two random yet completely related stream of consciousness meanderings.
Play dates. Can I tell you how ridiculous that whole phrase sounds?
Play dates??? When I was gowing up, we didn't have play dates. We met in the cul de sac every morning in the summer or during the school year after 3pm and planned our own "play dates".
Reality check. I know that it's a scary world. Always has been. And I know things have changed, but not as much as lots of folks seem to think. Long conversations with my parents and inlaws have given me insight on that one.
So I made a decision this summer....to let go.
And what does that mean?
It means my kids can walk down the street to the cul de sac (after telling me where they are going) and play, coming back when they are ready.
It means they can ride their bikes on our street without me sitting at the top of the driveway watching.
It means they can head off to the pool on foot, scooter or bike (with me 5 minutes behind)
I'm letting go, which means............
Change
My oldest will be 10 in a few short months.
How did that happen?
Of course I KNOW how it happened. I just can't seem to remember when. All I have are the lyrics from Aerosmith's "Don't want to miss a thing" playing on some kind of cosmic mommy loop in my head.
What I do know for sure... from this point on, the ride is accelerating into a fast and furious looping spiral and if I blink my eyes, I will miss it.
And I don't want to miss it.
I want to soak up every scary, hairy, wonderful, sublime, wacky, wild, challenging, tender, lovely moment of it.
Ten years from now, they will be gone. Flown the coop. And I will have (statistically speaking) another 40 years to be me. (Another scary thought. I really must stop spending so much time online)
In the meantime, they are in MY park and I have a ticket to ride. And I am going to let go, with my eyes wide open, hands in the air and screaming with equal parts fear and delight.
Because at the end of my life, I want to know and I want my boys to know that I lived my life facing my fears and also without fears.
Let it ride
Self? When did your offspring start having a more active social life than you have?
And then I remembered, it all started with "play dates" And that was SEVEN years ago for my oldest son.
Which started me on two random yet completely related stream of consciousness meanderings.
Play dates. Can I tell you how ridiculous that whole phrase sounds?
Play dates??? When I was gowing up, we didn't have play dates. We met in the cul de sac every morning in the summer or during the school year after 3pm and planned our own "play dates".
Reality check. I know that it's a scary world. Always has been. And I know things have changed, but not as much as lots of folks seem to think. Long conversations with my parents and inlaws have given me insight on that one.
So I made a decision this summer....to let go.
And what does that mean?
It means my kids can walk down the street to the cul de sac (after telling me where they are going) and play, coming back when they are ready.
It means they can ride their bikes on our street without me sitting at the top of the driveway watching.
It means they can head off to the pool on foot, scooter or bike (with me 5 minutes behind)
I'm letting go, which means............
Change
My oldest will be 10 in a few short months.
How did that happen?
Of course I KNOW how it happened. I just can't seem to remember when. All I have are the lyrics from Aerosmith's "Don't want to miss a thing" playing on some kind of cosmic mommy loop in my head.
What I do know for sure... from this point on, the ride is accelerating into a fast and furious looping spiral and if I blink my eyes, I will miss it.
And I don't want to miss it.
I want to soak up every scary, hairy, wonderful, sublime, wacky, wild, challenging, tender, lovely moment of it.
Ten years from now, they will be gone. Flown the coop. And I will have (statistically speaking) another 40 years to be me. (Another scary thought. I really must stop spending so much time online)
In the meantime, they are in MY park and I have a ticket to ride. And I am going to let go, with my eyes wide open, hands in the air and screaming with equal parts fear and delight.
Because at the end of my life, I want to know and I want my boys to know that I lived my life facing my fears and also without fears.
Let it ride
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Week-End Update
For the record, it was glorious and I am completely recharged and rested!
Friday I had dinner with friends, stayed up til midnight drinking wine and chatting. It was loverly.
Saturday, the weather was cool and sunny, so I spent beaucoup time on my back porch reading, sipping diet coke and just day dreaming.
Sunday, I had the time to finish my dad's father's day mini album and it's in the mail!
My merry but weary band of men didn't return until 11pm on Sunday, so it was really an almost four day mini vacation for me.
Lesson learned, I'm not waiting seven years for my next solo week-end.
Friday I had dinner with friends, stayed up til midnight drinking wine and chatting. It was loverly.
Saturday, the weather was cool and sunny, so I spent beaucoup time on my back porch reading, sipping diet coke and just day dreaming.
Sunday, I had the time to finish my dad's father's day mini album and it's in the mail!
My merry but weary band of men didn't return until 11pm on Sunday, so it was really an almost four day mini vacation for me.
Lesson learned, I'm not waiting seven years for my next solo week-end.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
I am flying solo
as of 3:30 this afternoon.
Hubby unit and two man childs are cruisin towards Ponte Vedra, FL as we speak for a coaches/sons week-end.
I am beyond ecstatic.
Woohoo...ME time! Sleepin in, no worries, no homework, no packing book bags, pure selfish ME time, create art, my own agenda, pampering, girl time.
I am thrilled and excited and thankful for this break.
But I also am thankful, that my merry and manic band of three, will return to me on Sunday.
Hubby unit and two man childs are cruisin towards Ponte Vedra, FL as we speak for a coaches/sons week-end.
I am beyond ecstatic.
Woohoo...ME time! Sleepin in, no worries, no homework, no packing book bags, pure selfish ME time, create art, my own agenda, pampering, girl time.
I am thrilled and excited and thankful for this break.
But I also am thankful, that my merry and manic band of three, will return to me on Sunday.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Memorial Day
So what's the first thing that pops in your mind?
Three day week-end?
Mini vacation?
Sleeping in?
Pool parties?
Cookouts?
Time to get stuff done around the house?
School's out revelry?
All of those things are truly necessary, enjoyable and/or deserved and I shall be engaging in all but the last this week-end!
But this year is going to be a little different for me. Okay, a lot different because of:
Spring Break this year, which included a day trip to Gettysburg. The visual imagery our guide shared, as he drove us around the battlefield in our own car was chilling. I mean chilling to the bone.
Meeting WWII vets last year. Looking into the watery eyes of an 80 year old vet as he thanked me for thanking him was a lesson in humility and grace and hope.
The safe return of one of my co-workers and the shipping out of another for a second tour(he, who on his first tour, was one of the medics who helped rescue Jessica Lynch, remember her?) They are so young and so brave and so scared and so real. And because I have walked and talked and laughed and complained with them, my anxiety and prayers are so much more intense.
So it will be different and much, much more personal than it has ever been in the past.
And as I munch my chips and burger and watch my kids splash in the pool, my silent mantra all day long will be "thank you...thank you...thank you."
I have never faced and taken a bullet for freedom,(thank you God) but I most certainly can thank and pray for those who have, and do and will.
Three day week-end?
Mini vacation?
Sleeping in?
Pool parties?
Cookouts?
Time to get stuff done around the house?
School's out revelry?
All of those things are truly necessary, enjoyable and/or deserved and I shall be engaging in all but the last this week-end!
But this year is going to be a little different for me. Okay, a lot different because of:
Spring Break this year, which included a day trip to Gettysburg. The visual imagery our guide shared, as he drove us around the battlefield in our own car was chilling. I mean chilling to the bone.
Meeting WWII vets last year. Looking into the watery eyes of an 80 year old vet as he thanked me for thanking him was a lesson in humility and grace and hope.
The safe return of one of my co-workers and the shipping out of another for a second tour(he, who on his first tour, was one of the medics who helped rescue Jessica Lynch, remember her?) They are so young and so brave and so scared and so real. And because I have walked and talked and laughed and complained with them, my anxiety and prayers are so much more intense.
So it will be different and much, much more personal than it has ever been in the past.
And as I munch my chips and burger and watch my kids splash in the pool, my silent mantra all day long will be "thank you...thank you...thank you."
I have never faced and taken a bullet for freedom,(thank you God) but I most certainly can thank and pray for those who have, and do and will.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
The pool, the pool, the pool
No Tattoo, we are not on Fantasy Island.
But we are in Hotlanta and the neighborhood pool, that sparkling, cool, aquatic bastion of enchantment and entertainment opens TODAY!
And there's a Cookout.
I tell you it can't get any better than this.
Kids entertained, happy, fed.
Mom doesn't have to cook.
Hail, hail, let the summer games begin!
But we are in Hotlanta and the neighborhood pool, that sparkling, cool, aquatic bastion of enchantment and entertainment opens TODAY!
And there's a Cookout.
I tell you it can't get any better than this.
Kids entertained, happy, fed.
Mom doesn't have to cook.
Hail, hail, let the summer games begin!
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Service with a Smile
I LOVE Publix
Don't know what Publix is?
I'm sorry. Deeply sorry. Bless your heart.
First of all, my apologies. Cause here in the South we are all about manners.
Even when we are being snarky.
If we say, "bless your heart"???
Trust me. You are being snarked, but in an EVER so polite way.
Back to Publix.
Publix rocks. Publix is a Southern icon, a grocery store that transcends all other grocery stores.
Service with a smile?? Honey, they go you one better and then some.
Case in point.
A few months ago, I went to Publix for a special run. Golden raisins. An essential ingredient in a divinely delicious recipe from Cooking Light. They were on sale. WOOT!
Woot not.
Golden raisins? They be gone.
But who should come to my rescue? Why a dashing Publix grocery manager, that's who.
"Ma'am, how can I help you????"
SIDE BAR You use the word ma'am in the South, even if you ONLY suspect that said ma'am is a mere 15 seconds older than you.
MOI '"Oh dear. There are no more golden raisins. Your special must have cleared the shelves"(batting eyes ever so subtly)
MANAGER That is not a problem, ma'am. Just give me your name, phone number and address (GOD that was FUN!) and I will deliver them to you personally tonight. I'm expecting my delivery truck within the hour.
DUHAYAAAAAAAAAAAHM
Talk about service. I nearly SWOONED.
So Publix...they rock and NOW I have one right next door to my office. No REALLY...right next door. I walk out my building, turn left and BOINK, run right into the store.
Grand opening today folks!
For the past 18 months we've watched various construction workers and machinery throw up this really cool curvy, blue glass, two wing high rise condo complex. Residences with retail below. Wave of the future riding on the back of the past.
So I called in my deli order in the morning. Worked out at lunch, picked up my order, and the latest copy of Scrapbooks, etc, got a really cool black mesh tote as a give away.
Got to love urban renewal.
Got to love Publix!!!!
Don't know what Publix is?
I'm sorry. Deeply sorry. Bless your heart.
First of all, my apologies. Cause here in the South we are all about manners.
Even when we are being snarky.
If we say, "bless your heart"???
Trust me. You are being snarked, but in an EVER so polite way.
Back to Publix.
Publix rocks. Publix is a Southern icon, a grocery store that transcends all other grocery stores.
Service with a smile?? Honey, they go you one better and then some.
Case in point.
A few months ago, I went to Publix for a special run. Golden raisins. An essential ingredient in a divinely delicious recipe from Cooking Light. They were on sale. WOOT!
Woot not.
Golden raisins? They be gone.
But who should come to my rescue? Why a dashing Publix grocery manager, that's who.
"Ma'am, how can I help you????"
SIDE BAR You use the word ma'am in the South, even if you ONLY suspect that said ma'am is a mere 15 seconds older than you.
MOI '"Oh dear. There are no more golden raisins. Your special must have cleared the shelves"(batting eyes ever so subtly)
MANAGER That is not a problem, ma'am. Just give me your name, phone number and address (GOD that was FUN!) and I will deliver them to you personally tonight. I'm expecting my delivery truck within the hour.
DUHAYAAAAAAAAAAAHM
Talk about service. I nearly SWOONED.
So Publix...they rock and NOW I have one right next door to my office. No REALLY...right next door. I walk out my building, turn left and BOINK, run right into the store.
Grand opening today folks!
For the past 18 months we've watched various construction workers and machinery throw up this really cool curvy, blue glass, two wing high rise condo complex. Residences with retail below. Wave of the future riding on the back of the past.
So I called in my deli order in the morning. Worked out at lunch, picked up my order, and the latest copy of Scrapbooks, etc, got a really cool black mesh tote as a give away.
Got to love urban renewal.
Got to love Publix!!!!
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Mommy? Are you and daddy
......going to get a divorce?
(so uttered by my youngest DS today on the way home from the grocery store)
HUH?
OKay, well, in light of what has happened in the past year, maybe not such a weird question.
Rewind.
Exhibit A
Our backyard neighbors got divorced. I am very good friends with the wife. But I tried to take the high road and facilitate reconciliation until the soon to be ex, showed his true colors. I won't go into the details only to say that what I witnessed leading up to the split and the aftermath shocked me and I'm not easily shocked.
Exhibit B
Another couple, good friends, also decided that after three kids, and 10 years, that they were friends, not soul mates. No anger. No finger pointing. No, she said, he said. Very sad. And they are trying to make sure that their mistake doesn't affect their kids ultimate good. It's just so surreal. The marriage... a mistake? Maybe? The kids, never. Never.
Fast forward to Friday.
Hubby and I are having a very "passionate" debate about discipline, specifically relating to the kiddos of course.
Here's the thing. I am not one to wrap my kids in a little cocoon of idealized life and by it's extension....marriage. In my book it is wrong and sets up unrealistic expectations later on in life. I am not June Cleaver.
Two days later, I get the question.
"Are you going to get divorced?"
And a completely logical one, given the events of the past year and my lame brained explanations.
I need to back peddle. Lame brained? That would be because I have told both of them, in the previous two cases, that sometimes mommies and daddies don't get along and they decide that everyone is happier if they don't live together. (Which is an utterly simplistic and abbreviated version of all that went wrong, but do ANY of us really need to know the full details?? NO....moving on)
Fast forward to my life. My husband and I don't always see eye to eye. I'm a flaming liberal. He....is a dyed in the wool conservative.
Needless to say......we have different points of view.
But not a different goal.
After 18 years, we are still here. Together.
I won't sugar coat it here folks. There have been times when I have wept, gnashed my teeth and been about ready to hurl myself into the abyss.
What has stopped me?
1) Knowing that I have a partner in crime and in time. My husband has had the same doubts and fears and despair and has shared them with me on more occasions than I can count
and
2) My boys...enough said.
So to Thumper and his query?
Driving home from the Publix, I said
"Mommy and Daddy, we don't always agree. And sometimes we get really, really mad at each other, just like you get really mad at your brother. But I can promise you this. I still love your daddy, even when he makes me crazy. And he still loves me. And we made a promise to each other a long, long time ago before God and our family and our friends. And we aren't going to break it...EVER.....pinky swear."
post script
I came home, unloaded the groceries and the boys, to my best friend, aka dyed in the wool conservative, make me crazy, husband and went up to our room and cried.
For my girlfriends, whose husband's didn't live up to their pinky swears.
For their kids, who just want to know that everything in their world is going to be okay.
Sometimes...you just need to cry.
(so uttered by my youngest DS today on the way home from the grocery store)
HUH?
OKay, well, in light of what has happened in the past year, maybe not such a weird question.
Rewind.
Exhibit A
Our backyard neighbors got divorced. I am very good friends with the wife. But I tried to take the high road and facilitate reconciliation until the soon to be ex, showed his true colors. I won't go into the details only to say that what I witnessed leading up to the split and the aftermath shocked me and I'm not easily shocked.
Exhibit B
Another couple, good friends, also decided that after three kids, and 10 years, that they were friends, not soul mates. No anger. No finger pointing. No, she said, he said. Very sad. And they are trying to make sure that their mistake doesn't affect their kids ultimate good. It's just so surreal. The marriage... a mistake? Maybe? The kids, never. Never.
Fast forward to Friday.
Hubby and I are having a very "passionate" debate about discipline, specifically relating to the kiddos of course.
Here's the thing. I am not one to wrap my kids in a little cocoon of idealized life and by it's extension....marriage. In my book it is wrong and sets up unrealistic expectations later on in life. I am not June Cleaver.
Two days later, I get the question.
"Are you going to get divorced?"
And a completely logical one, given the events of the past year and my lame brained explanations.
I need to back peddle. Lame brained? That would be because I have told both of them, in the previous two cases, that sometimes mommies and daddies don't get along and they decide that everyone is happier if they don't live together. (Which is an utterly simplistic and abbreviated version of all that went wrong, but do ANY of us really need to know the full details?? NO....moving on)
Fast forward to my life. My husband and I don't always see eye to eye. I'm a flaming liberal. He....is a dyed in the wool conservative.
Needless to say......we have different points of view.
But not a different goal.
After 18 years, we are still here. Together.
I won't sugar coat it here folks. There have been times when I have wept, gnashed my teeth and been about ready to hurl myself into the abyss.
What has stopped me?
1) Knowing that I have a partner in crime and in time. My husband has had the same doubts and fears and despair and has shared them with me on more occasions than I can count
and
2) My boys...enough said.
So to Thumper and his query?
Driving home from the Publix, I said
"Mommy and Daddy, we don't always agree. And sometimes we get really, really mad at each other, just like you get really mad at your brother. But I can promise you this. I still love your daddy, even when he makes me crazy. And he still loves me. And we made a promise to each other a long, long time ago before God and our family and our friends. And we aren't going to break it...EVER.....pinky swear."
post script
I came home, unloaded the groceries and the boys, to my best friend, aka dyed in the wool conservative, make me crazy, husband and went up to our room and cried.
For my girlfriends, whose husband's didn't live up to their pinky swears.
For their kids, who just want to know that everything in their world is going to be okay.
Sometimes...you just need to cry.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
What's It All About Alfie?
Do you ever feel that you were born old?
That this was not your first time on the pony ride?
NO? If not, either read on because you relate, are intrigued or question or disagree. All are welcome at my round table discussion. Post at will.
As for me, it all began when I was 8 and I decided to befriend the school misfit.
Why do such a radical thing? Why rock the boat? Why? Why? Why?
Who nows? All I know, is that all these years later, in my core, I wasn't having any more of it.
The "it" being what was expected or accepted or demanded.
Yep, at the ripe old age of 8, I basically said "screw you" to the status quo. Although I am quite sure I would never have uttered, nor have THOUGHT to utter such words, although I might have expressed it in a different way.
Two years earlier, I have photographic evidence that I wasn't going to toe the party line. Flashback, Kindergarten, class picture. Everyone's hands are folded as instructed. Mine? Mine are flat on the desk. Where am I in the pix? Front and center.
So back to my point. There is one...really.
My oldest son is in 3rd grade and things are shifting. He was 8 at the beginning of this school year (kharma anyone?) and already I'm seeing all around him the same ponying up to the socio-mathematical "mean".
Do you go with the flow, the majority, the 'in" crowd?
Or do you chart your own course with a true compass, which in my book boils down to the Golden Rule? Are you hurting or helping with your actions, words and/or deeds?
Already I see his conflict.
But I also see his center.
And that.....that gives me hope.
That somewhere, somehow, despite my less than perfect parenting, I am helping him find his way.
And in doing so, he has returned the favor.
That this was not your first time on the pony ride?
NO? If not, either read on because you relate, are intrigued or question or disagree. All are welcome at my round table discussion. Post at will.
As for me, it all began when I was 8 and I decided to befriend the school misfit.
Why do such a radical thing? Why rock the boat? Why? Why? Why?
Who nows? All I know, is that all these years later, in my core, I wasn't having any more of it.
The "it" being what was expected or accepted or demanded.
Yep, at the ripe old age of 8, I basically said "screw you" to the status quo. Although I am quite sure I would never have uttered, nor have THOUGHT to utter such words, although I might have expressed it in a different way.
Two years earlier, I have photographic evidence that I wasn't going to toe the party line. Flashback, Kindergarten, class picture. Everyone's hands are folded as instructed. Mine? Mine are flat on the desk. Where am I in the pix? Front and center.
So back to my point. There is one...really.
My oldest son is in 3rd grade and things are shifting. He was 8 at the beginning of this school year (kharma anyone?) and already I'm seeing all around him the same ponying up to the socio-mathematical "mean".
Do you go with the flow, the majority, the 'in" crowd?
Or do you chart your own course with a true compass, which in my book boils down to the Golden Rule? Are you hurting or helping with your actions, words and/or deeds?
Already I see his conflict.
But I also see his center.
And that.....that gives me hope.
That somewhere, somehow, despite my less than perfect parenting, I am helping him find his way.
And in doing so, he has returned the favor.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Double Expresso
No, no....not that kind of fix.....my caffienated friends.
I'm talking hair color....more to the point my haircolor now.
And I did it myself!
Dang Skippy...if I had known how easy this was to do...I would have been on the "Starbucks Tress Train" years ago.
My hair...it looks hot. No not just hot...SMOKIN!
No grey, just shiny, soft yummy color.
Of course there were a few scary moments when my shower stall was splattered with blood red purple droplets and the water pooled at my feet in the same hue.
I was having "Carrie" prom scene flashbacks....and I actually screamed.
Poor Jake, aka the wonder dog, about had kittens, I know it boggles the scientific mind. He came FLYING into the bathroom to defend his clueless mistress. Which was a scene in and of itself, because he is so ginormous, his back end catches up with his front end about three minutes later, which produces a really cool skid effect.
But I digress. After the skid into the shower, he looked kind of mocha until I hosed him off.
Good thing the kiddos and DH were at a baseball game together.
There are just sometimes when a woman needs TOTAL privacy!
Sorry Jake, next time I'll close the door.
And I won't scream.
heh.
I'm talking hair color....more to the point my haircolor now.
And I did it myself!
Dang Skippy...if I had known how easy this was to do...I would have been on the "Starbucks Tress Train" years ago.
My hair...it looks hot. No not just hot...SMOKIN!
No grey, just shiny, soft yummy color.
Of course there were a few scary moments when my shower stall was splattered with blood red purple droplets and the water pooled at my feet in the same hue.
I was having "Carrie" prom scene flashbacks....and I actually screamed.
Poor Jake, aka the wonder dog, about had kittens, I know it boggles the scientific mind. He came FLYING into the bathroom to defend his clueless mistress. Which was a scene in and of itself, because he is so ginormous, his back end catches up with his front end about three minutes later, which produces a really cool skid effect.
But I digress. After the skid into the shower, he looked kind of mocha until I hosed him off.
Good thing the kiddos and DH were at a baseball game together.
There are just sometimes when a woman needs TOTAL privacy!
Sorry Jake, next time I'll close the door.
And I won't scream.
heh.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Matthew & Matthew
Game over (Sorry Co) because I simply couldn't hold it in any longer!
Matthew McConaughey and Matthew Fox are filming "We Are Marshall" RIGHT across the street from my office. Today is suppposedly the last day. No sightings yet, but I still have hope!
And I have my camera in my office!
Matthew McConaughey and Matthew Fox are filming "We Are Marshall" RIGHT across the street from my office. Today is suppposedly the last day. No sightings yet, but I still have hope!
And I have my camera in my office!
Monday, April 24, 2006
M2
SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!
Okay who wants to play 20 questions???
It has to do with the world of entertainment and proximity to MOI!!
So go!!!!
Okay who wants to play 20 questions???
It has to do with the world of entertainment and proximity to MOI!!
So go!!!!
Friday, April 14, 2006
Sisterhood of the Shopping Senoras
My mom is back in town.
That dear bloggers means my wallet and my credit is usually in serious peril.
See I'm normally one of those once a quarter shoppers,only filling in my wardrobe with "MUST" haves.
"MUST" haves being clean underwear, a bra that fits, a few tee shirts, maybe if I'm feeling really crazy a pair of pants or some new "practical" shoes.
My mom???? She's all about the you "NEED" to haves.
NEED equals fun, cute, kicky things.
You know the kind of outfit or shoe or accessory that makes you twirl three times in front of the mirror, flip your hair and put your hand on your hip as it thrusts out in it's BEST catwalk imitation, purse your lips, tilt your head and consider your totally hot (or at least the flattering mirrors make you THINK you are hot) visage.
Simultaneously, my mother flits around me pulling, tucking, adjusting. Only to pull back, all Edith Head, and declare that I and the outfit are DESTINED, destined to be one.
Very Zen and funny and DANGEROUS all at the same time.
The results for todays shopathon
Zen - Ten
Funny - Eleven
DANGEROUS - Zero ( Yes zero, HOORAY for gift certificates, birthday discounts, passport customer coupons and auto discounts)
ZEN - I scored FOUR ridiciulously hot/hip pieces.
FUNNY - Laughed so hard my Mom almost made me had an accident. (She really needs to stop that....those damn Kegel exercises during my pregnancies didn't accomplish squat)
DANGEROUS - The final tally won't leave me with buyer's remose tomorrow.
And...I have dropped two dress sizes!!!!
I think I just achieved shopping Nirvanna......oooohhhhhmmmmmm.
That dear bloggers means my wallet and my credit is usually in serious peril.
See I'm normally one of those once a quarter shoppers,only filling in my wardrobe with "MUST" haves.
"MUST" haves being clean underwear, a bra that fits, a few tee shirts, maybe if I'm feeling really crazy a pair of pants or some new "practical" shoes.
My mom???? She's all about the you "NEED" to haves.
NEED equals fun, cute, kicky things.
You know the kind of outfit or shoe or accessory that makes you twirl three times in front of the mirror, flip your hair and put your hand on your hip as it thrusts out in it's BEST catwalk imitation, purse your lips, tilt your head and consider your totally hot (or at least the flattering mirrors make you THINK you are hot) visage.
Simultaneously, my mother flits around me pulling, tucking, adjusting. Only to pull back, all Edith Head, and declare that I and the outfit are DESTINED, destined to be one.
Very Zen and funny and DANGEROUS all at the same time.
The results for todays shopathon
Zen - Ten
Funny - Eleven
DANGEROUS - Zero ( Yes zero, HOORAY for gift certificates, birthday discounts, passport customer coupons and auto discounts)
ZEN - I scored FOUR ridiciulously hot/hip pieces.
FUNNY - Laughed so hard my Mom almost made me had an accident. (She really needs to stop that....those damn Kegel exercises during my pregnancies didn't accomplish squat)
DANGEROUS - The final tally won't leave me with buyer's remose tomorrow.
And...I have dropped two dress sizes!!!!
I think I just achieved shopping Nirvanna......oooohhhhhmmmmmm.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
High Five
Spring is in full glorious bloom here in Georgia. The skies are crystalline blue. The grass and trees shout for joy in technicolor green. The dogwoods suspend clouds of white flowers everywhere you look and the azaleas are pop, pop POPPING orange, red and fuschia.
In a word...............spectacular!
And in my own personal ode to happiness, I offer up my top FIVE "make me happy til I want to wiggle, giggle and dance my way across the lawn barefoot and fancy free!"
ONE I work from home all day on Fridays...can I tell you how much I love not having to get up, get dressed, put on makeup, curl my hair, blahdablahda? AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!
TWO My folk arrive for the week-end. They love me and think I hung the moon. Make me laugh. Make me happy. Make my kids delirously happy. YAY bring on the GiGi and PopPop
THREE My new painted canvas rug arrives tomorrow. My girlfriend who makes and designs the rugs among other things has been working her tail off so I can have it in time for my folks arrival. I designed it, she tweaked it, she says it's stunning. I am giddy at the thought!
FOUR School has been so much easier for my oldest son this week. The whys and wherefores deserve their own post at a later date, but for now, my world is considerably less chaotic. I never knew this was how normal was supposed to be.
FIVE My lilacs are blooming. Big fat purple bundles of sublime scent and color.
What are your top FIVE current odes to happiness?
Pass it on!
In a word...............spectacular!
And in my own personal ode to happiness, I offer up my top FIVE "make me happy til I want to wiggle, giggle and dance my way across the lawn barefoot and fancy free!"
ONE I work from home all day on Fridays...can I tell you how much I love not having to get up, get dressed, put on makeup, curl my hair, blahdablahda? AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!
TWO My folk arrive for the week-end. They love me and think I hung the moon. Make me laugh. Make me happy. Make my kids delirously happy. YAY bring on the GiGi and PopPop
THREE My new painted canvas rug arrives tomorrow. My girlfriend who makes and designs the rugs among other things has been working her tail off so I can have it in time for my folks arrival. I designed it, she tweaked it, she says it's stunning. I am giddy at the thought!
FOUR School has been so much easier for my oldest son this week. The whys and wherefores deserve their own post at a later date, but for now, my world is considerably less chaotic. I never knew this was how normal was supposed to be.
FIVE My lilacs are blooming. Big fat purple bundles of sublime scent and color.
What are your top FIVE current odes to happiness?
Pass it on!
Friday, March 31, 2006
Blue on Blue
I would love to post linkage...really I would.
But my digital died on Spring Break and is currently at the Cannon Cryogenics Lab in Illinois to see if a miracle is forthcoming.
In the meantime, I will leave you with this tantalizing clue.
Sporty and Honest, tone on tone......where would I be in Lisa's house???
Game on.
But my digital died on Spring Break and is currently at the Cannon Cryogenics Lab in Illinois to see if a miracle is forthcoming.
In the meantime, I will leave you with this tantalizing clue.
Sporty and Honest, tone on tone......where would I be in Lisa's house???
Game on.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Fat as a Foil
HUH?
Let me elaborate.
For the past 6 years I have been gaining weight on the average of 5 pounds a year. And in chatting with Wen last night I shared that 6 years ago, something happened at my local grocery store that rocked my world.
I had my two babes with me. Bambam was 3, Thumper was barely 1.
I was in a checkout line. I had a brief casual conversation with a man behind me along the lines of "Yes, I like Boars Head better than store brand because there are no fillers" type of back and forth.
I wrote my check, gathered my bags and proceeded to my car, babes in tow.
I loaded my purchases in the trunk, strapped my babes in their car seats, turned to get in my car and
....there he was, at my CAR!!! The man behind me in line.
He tried to make conversation. But I was having none of it. My women's intuition kicked into high gear and I bolted. Slammed the locks down and peeled off.
Hello. I'm sorry. You don't follow a woman with two children to her car.
NOT normal.
That one event was certainly not the all encompassing reason for my weight gain.
But subconsciously, on a maternal level, it was MY catalyst.
My thought process?? I won't be attractive. I put my children at risk. This can't happen again.
The outcome?? I wrapped, clothed, sheathed, defended myself with a layer of fat. My fat as a foil, if you will.
BUT, my thought process was not perfect...go figure.
The weight gain made me tired and depressed and feeling sick. For a former athlete, feeling unhealthy was a red flag for me. I HATE feeling rundown and not having the energy to play or keep up with my kiddos.
Those who know me well and have seen me in action, know I am a big kid at heart, ie the first one down in the grass inspecting an inchworm or playing a game of freeze tag or singing nonsensical lyrics at the TOP of my lungs.
And when I would not, could not do this anymore....I took action.
I've slimmed down, people are noticing, complimenting...... and that....that scares me.
I don't want people to look at me, notice me, compliment me.
That one event, when the boys were young, shook me so hard, I don't know how to recover.
But I also know, if I can't work through this issue, all the good I am doing for my body now, will be fleeting.
I don't want fleeting.
I'd really like to dance with my boys at their weddings.
Let me elaborate.
For the past 6 years I have been gaining weight on the average of 5 pounds a year. And in chatting with Wen last night I shared that 6 years ago, something happened at my local grocery store that rocked my world.
I had my two babes with me. Bambam was 3, Thumper was barely 1.
I was in a checkout line. I had a brief casual conversation with a man behind me along the lines of "Yes, I like Boars Head better than store brand because there are no fillers" type of back and forth.
I wrote my check, gathered my bags and proceeded to my car, babes in tow.
I loaded my purchases in the trunk, strapped my babes in their car seats, turned to get in my car and
....there he was, at my CAR!!! The man behind me in line.
He tried to make conversation. But I was having none of it. My women's intuition kicked into high gear and I bolted. Slammed the locks down and peeled off.
Hello. I'm sorry. You don't follow a woman with two children to her car.
NOT normal.
That one event was certainly not the all encompassing reason for my weight gain.
But subconsciously, on a maternal level, it was MY catalyst.
My thought process?? I won't be attractive. I put my children at risk. This can't happen again.
The outcome?? I wrapped, clothed, sheathed, defended myself with a layer of fat. My fat as a foil, if you will.
BUT, my thought process was not perfect...go figure.
The weight gain made me tired and depressed and feeling sick. For a former athlete, feeling unhealthy was a red flag for me. I HATE feeling rundown and not having the energy to play or keep up with my kiddos.
Those who know me well and have seen me in action, know I am a big kid at heart, ie the first one down in the grass inspecting an inchworm or playing a game of freeze tag or singing nonsensical lyrics at the TOP of my lungs.
And when I would not, could not do this anymore....I took action.
I've slimmed down, people are noticing, complimenting...... and that....that scares me.
I don't want people to look at me, notice me, compliment me.
That one event, when the boys were young, shook me so hard, I don't know how to recover.
But I also know, if I can't work through this issue, all the good I am doing for my body now, will be fleeting.
I don't want fleeting.
I'd really like to dance with my boys at their weddings.
Monday, March 27, 2006
15 down
and 20 to go.
Pounds that is!
And I lost 3.5 last week, using the CORE WW program.
I am so proud of myself for getting this far, even though it has been excruciatingly slow. No really.... excruciating. This behavior modification thing is NOT for sissies.
Oddly enough, I'm learning so much more on this journey than I have in the past, especially in the past week.
Okay cause.... I know you're dying to glean my nuggets of wisdom (NOT!)here's what I've learned so far.
1) Eating whole, not processed fooods makes me feel better
Okay some of you may be rolling your eyes and mouthing a big "DUH" on this one, but it was truly a revelation for me. I wasn't hungry ALL the time. I wasn't cranky and bitchy. I was satisfied and happy and CALM!
2) A little bit of exercise goes a long way
Just 30 minutes a day on the treadmill down in my firm's health club at lunch time. And what did I get?
Stress relief - check
Time to clear my head - check
Some really amusing time with the BBC crew of Trading Rooms - check
Lost 3.5 punds - check and double check and an around the world and back SNAP!
3) I'm learning to recognize when I'm truly hungry and when I am just stress eating.
I never could get my brain around this with the FLEX program of WW. But with CORE the only way you monitor food intake, is to eat half your food, stop for 5 minutes and ask "Am I really still hungry?". There is no tracking, ie writing down every morsel of food that passes my lips. That approach just made me OBSESS about food. WOW, listening to your body.....what a RADICAL concept.
So to wrap up, especially for my dear friend Wen. Sometimes change is slow, sometimes it is radical, but yes it can happen.
Pounds that is!
And I lost 3.5 last week, using the CORE WW program.
I am so proud of myself for getting this far, even though it has been excruciatingly slow. No really.... excruciating. This behavior modification thing is NOT for sissies.
Oddly enough, I'm learning so much more on this journey than I have in the past, especially in the past week.
Okay cause.... I know you're dying to glean my nuggets of wisdom (NOT!)here's what I've learned so far.
1) Eating whole, not processed fooods makes me feel better
Okay some of you may be rolling your eyes and mouthing a big "DUH" on this one, but it was truly a revelation for me. I wasn't hungry ALL the time. I wasn't cranky and bitchy. I was satisfied and happy and CALM!
2) A little bit of exercise goes a long way
Just 30 minutes a day on the treadmill down in my firm's health club at lunch time. And what did I get?
Stress relief - check
Time to clear my head - check
Some really amusing time with the BBC crew of Trading Rooms - check
Lost 3.5 punds - check and double check and an around the world and back SNAP!
3) I'm learning to recognize when I'm truly hungry and when I am just stress eating.
I never could get my brain around this with the FLEX program of WW. But with CORE the only way you monitor food intake, is to eat half your food, stop for 5 minutes and ask "Am I really still hungry?". There is no tracking, ie writing down every morsel of food that passes my lips. That approach just made me OBSESS about food. WOW, listening to your body.....what a RADICAL concept.
So to wrap up, especially for my dear friend Wen. Sometimes change is slow, sometimes it is radical, but yes it can happen.
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
St. Patty's Party
In 25 words or less
4 pounds each brisket and salmon
10 pounds of potatoes
3 cases of beer
12 good friends
Fire pit
No bail required
Rockin Good Time!
And now for the expanded version!
I worked like a dog getting our house put back together the day of the party since my good friends, Phil & Sharon were at my house to the wee hours Thursday night putting the finishing coats of paint on our family room.
I cooked the brisket overnight in the crockpot after they left. Got up at the crack of dawn and reloaded my family room with all furniture and accessories, although the books got pared down considerably thanks to Sharon and her keep/donate/toss exercise with me.
Went to Costco on my lunch hour and got all necessary party supplies. Sent hubby to the grocery for more ice and more beer and chairs from the clubhouse.
Squeezed in my billable hours for the day. (GO ME!)
The green velvet cake was wicked rich and good.
Sharon's challah was supposed to look like a shamrock, she even painted it with a green tinted egg wash, alas it looked like, well uhhhmmm.....think prop for "Boogie Nights"
Only the adults got it and that was bad enough. Poor Sharon never heard the end of it.
The boys forgot their water balloon launcher which was a good thing cause I didn't feel like bailing anyone out of the pokey for bombarding my girlfriends ex's house which is a mere 100 yards from mine.
Let's just say, by the time 5PM rolled around this colleen was ready to raise a pint!
4 pounds each brisket and salmon
10 pounds of potatoes
3 cases of beer
12 good friends
Fire pit
No bail required
Rockin Good Time!
And now for the expanded version!
I worked like a dog getting our house put back together the day of the party since my good friends, Phil & Sharon were at my house to the wee hours Thursday night putting the finishing coats of paint on our family room.
I cooked the brisket overnight in the crockpot after they left. Got up at the crack of dawn and reloaded my family room with all furniture and accessories, although the books got pared down considerably thanks to Sharon and her keep/donate/toss exercise with me.
Went to Costco on my lunch hour and got all necessary party supplies. Sent hubby to the grocery for more ice and more beer and chairs from the clubhouse.
Squeezed in my billable hours for the day. (GO ME!)
The green velvet cake was wicked rich and good.
Sharon's challah was supposed to look like a shamrock, she even painted it with a green tinted egg wash, alas it looked like, well uhhhmmm.....think prop for "Boogie Nights"
Only the adults got it and that was bad enough. Poor Sharon never heard the end of it.
The boys forgot their water balloon launcher which was a good thing cause I didn't feel like bailing anyone out of the pokey for bombarding my girlfriends ex's house which is a mere 100 yards from mine.
Let's just say, by the time 5PM rolled around this colleen was ready to raise a pint!
Friday, March 17, 2006
It's Friday..It's March 17th!!!
Let the games begin....WOOT!
T Minus 10 minutes and counting until I have a house full of guests arriving to celebrate the land of my husband's ancestors. (He be the one wearin the green 365 a year, having the most gorgeous green eyes on the face of the planet THANK you veddy much!)
On tap
Killians Red
Guiness
Harp
(Lordy we're going to have to find beds for people tonight)
On the groaning board
Salmon and Brisket with a bourbon, mustard brown sugar glaze
Mixed organic Spring Salad Mix (LOVE COSTCO) w/ mandarin oranges and craisins
"Loaded" mashed Potatoes with horseradish and green onions
Whole wheat bread
Challah (LOVE you Sharon)
and
GREEN Velvet cake.....yes GREEN, not red, GREEN...HEH!
(Love you Amy)
Oh and we have a water ballon launcher....the kids (read..the adults) love it. Plenty of woods to launch into.
I'll post more tomorrow, if I don't have to make bail!
T Minus 10 minutes and counting until I have a house full of guests arriving to celebrate the land of my husband's ancestors. (He be the one wearin the green 365 a year, having the most gorgeous green eyes on the face of the planet THANK you veddy much!)
On tap
Killians Red
Guiness
Harp
(Lordy we're going to have to find beds for people tonight)
On the groaning board
Salmon and Brisket with a bourbon, mustard brown sugar glaze
Mixed organic Spring Salad Mix (LOVE COSTCO) w/ mandarin oranges and craisins
"Loaded" mashed Potatoes with horseradish and green onions
Whole wheat bread
Challah (LOVE you Sharon)
and
GREEN Velvet cake.....yes GREEN, not red, GREEN...HEH!
(Love you Amy)
Oh and we have a water ballon launcher....the kids (read..the adults) love it. Plenty of woods to launch into.
I'll post more tomorrow, if I don't have to make bail!
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
The luxury package
Ahhhhhh.....bliss!
I swear I said that every night while falling asleep on vacation, the being on vacation part helped tons, but what really sealed the deal were these uber comfy fluffy pillows and feather bed and duvet that comprised "the luxury bedding package" at our hotel. It was liking being wrapped in a cloud, only without the reality of gravity...heh!
And the shower...oh my the shower.....it was one of those rainfall shower heads....sighhhhhhhhhhhh!
The experience spoiled hubby too and on the road home I was given marching orders by the hubby to go out and buy new bedding and shower heads to recreate the experience.
I LOVE it when he TELLS me I HAVE to buy stuff....WOOT!
So working off a tip from a girlfriend I hit Overstock.com and for under $200 the bedding and shower fixtures of our dreams will be winging their way to us this week!
No more counting sheep for moi!
I swear I said that every night while falling asleep on vacation, the being on vacation part helped tons, but what really sealed the deal were these uber comfy fluffy pillows and feather bed and duvet that comprised "the luxury bedding package" at our hotel. It was liking being wrapped in a cloud, only without the reality of gravity...heh!
And the shower...oh my the shower.....it was one of those rainfall shower heads....sighhhhhhhhhhhh!
The experience spoiled hubby too and on the road home I was given marching orders by the hubby to go out and buy new bedding and shower heads to recreate the experience.
I LOVE it when he TELLS me I HAVE to buy stuff....WOOT!
So working off a tip from a girlfriend I hit Overstock.com and for under $200 the bedding and shower fixtures of our dreams will be winging their way to us this week!
No more counting sheep for moi!
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Scrapbook on the Road
Here is the cover...in all it's imperfect glory!
I enjoyed working on this album more than any to date because I created it in real time and was able to capture all the funny, crazy, quirky, maddening things that happened.
So much better than waiting for film to be developed and then another couple of months until I felt "inspired".
I'll post more over at Scrapgal..enjoy!
Saturday, March 11, 2006
I have returned
from DC...after 11 hours on the road, with an hour long detour in Greenville for DH to meander down memory lane, my bottom is numb, my brain is numb...corollation...perhaps??
I have a bazillion loads of laundry to do, my digital camera broke and we lost our guidebook ALL on the second day...
BUT (and that's a big BUT...not to be confused with my keister which is slightly smaller from all that walking thank you VERY much)
I also have
an amazing scrapbook created on the road thanks to last minute instructions from Wen
5 disposable cameras
3 rolls of film from my SLR
a card full of digital before it went belly up
and a lifteime of memories.
I slept like a baby, didn't go online once, left behind the worries and fears of my day to day life.
In short....I had an acutal vacation.
The first in at least 6 years.
I highly recommend it.
I have a bazillion loads of laundry to do, my digital camera broke and we lost our guidebook ALL on the second day...
BUT (and that's a big BUT...not to be confused with my keister which is slightly smaller from all that walking thank you VERY much)
I also have
an amazing scrapbook created on the road thanks to last minute instructions from Wen
5 disposable cameras
3 rolls of film from my SLR
a card full of digital before it went belly up
and a lifteime of memories.
I slept like a baby, didn't go online once, left behind the worries and fears of my day to day life.
In short....I had an acutal vacation.
The first in at least 6 years.
I highly recommend it.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
In one day
In one day we leave for Spring Break and our trip to DC...WooHoo!!
In one day the forecast in DC went from mostly sunny all week
to mostly rainy...GACK!
So I'm packing for the worst and hoping for the best.
DC baby.....tomorrow we roll!
In one day the forecast in DC went from mostly sunny all week
to mostly rainy...GACK!
So I'm packing for the worst and hoping for the best.
DC baby.....tomorrow we roll!
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Do the Palm Court Strut......
"...swing your butt.
Do the Palm Court Strut.
Swing your butt
Swing it to the left
Swing it to the right
Swing it to the one that you love all night
Swing your booty....all night long"
yeah BABY!
But sadly, somewhere along the way, I managed to raise a pair of prudes, not to be confused with a pair of prunes, although prunes and prudes seem to go together like Jack and Jill...but I digress.
Back to the setting
I play Co's Mardi Gras CD in the car with kiddos in tow yesterday
They LOVE CO.
When are we going to MG again???
When are we going to see J and Miss Co again?
Can I wear my beads to school?
Are we having King's Cake? I WANT the baby this year?
So on and so forth.
Then we get to the "Strut"
BamBam: Mommy....MOMMMY!!!! They said the "B" word
ME: B word...what B word?
Thumper: Mommy, (whispering) they said butt. That's a potty word.
Me: Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. Uhmmmm...why do you think that's a potty word?
Bambam: My teacher says so
Me (in my best Bill Cosby imitation) Riiiiiiiiiggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhttttttttttt
Me: Who's the mommy?
Boys: You!!! (duh??)
Me: Who makes the rules?
Boys: You!!!
Me: Have I ever told you "butt" is a bad word?
Boys: (looking at each other for confirmation) NO!!!
Me: So let's SING!!!!!
Do the Palm Court Strut.
Swing your butt
Swing it to the left
Swing it to the right
Swing it to the one that you love all night
Swing your booty....all night long
Amen and pass the King's Cake!
Do the Palm Court Strut.
Swing your butt
Swing it to the left
Swing it to the right
Swing it to the one that you love all night
Swing your booty....all night long"
yeah BABY!
But sadly, somewhere along the way, I managed to raise a pair of prudes, not to be confused with a pair of prunes, although prunes and prudes seem to go together like Jack and Jill...but I digress.
Back to the setting
I play Co's Mardi Gras CD in the car with kiddos in tow yesterday
They LOVE CO.
When are we going to MG again???
When are we going to see J and Miss Co again?
Can I wear my beads to school?
Are we having King's Cake? I WANT the baby this year?
So on and so forth.
Then we get to the "Strut"
BamBam: Mommy....MOMMMY!!!! They said the "B" word
ME: B word...what B word?
Thumper: Mommy, (whispering) they said butt. That's a potty word.
Me: Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. Uhmmmm...why do you think that's a potty word?
Bambam: My teacher says so
Me (in my best Bill Cosby imitation) Riiiiiiiiiggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhttttttttttt
Me: Who's the mommy?
Boys: You!!! (duh??)
Me: Who makes the rules?
Boys: You!!!
Me: Have I ever told you "butt" is a bad word?
Boys: (looking at each other for confirmation) NO!!!
Me: So let's SING!!!!!
Do the Palm Court Strut.
Swing your butt
Swing it to the left
Swing it to the right
Swing it to the one that you love all night
Swing your booty....all night long
Amen and pass the King's Cake!
Monday, February 27, 2006
Laissez les bon temps
.............rouler
This is for you Co
Mardi Gras Memories (one year later)
I remember.............
Driving to NO to meet a girl and her family that I had only "met" through the net.
Hearing your strong sure voice guiding us as we crossed the bridge over Ponchatrain.
Hugging you for the first time and how it felt like it had always been.
Being enveloped in the spirit and the love that is family
Falling off my perch, poking a hole in my pants and bounching back for more.
Being lifted up, dusted off and offered solace (ie another libation)
Finding out that, family is not only what you are born into
But what you MAKE of it.
Laiseez les bon temps rouler mon cherie.
I'll be wearing my oyster and HOT sauce throw....ALL DAY for you tomorrow!
This is for you Co
Mardi Gras Memories (one year later)
I remember.............
Driving to NO to meet a girl and her family that I had only "met" through the net.
Hearing your strong sure voice guiding us as we crossed the bridge over Ponchatrain.
Hugging you for the first time and how it felt like it had always been.
Being enveloped in the spirit and the love that is family
Falling off my perch, poking a hole in my pants and bounching back for more.
Being lifted up, dusted off and offered solace (ie another libation)
Finding out that, family is not only what you are born into
But what you MAKE of it.
Laiseez les bon temps rouler mon cherie.
I'll be wearing my oyster and HOT sauce throw....ALL DAY for you tomorrow!
Friday, February 24, 2006
I HATE it when I'm right (sometimes)
Yep Sasha stopped, dropped and rolled.....crap.
I hate it for her. Although truth be told, her prospects for post amateur lucre are so much brighter than the days of say, Dorothy Hamill
Cause really the only games in town were Ice Follies and Ice Capades.
And if you weren't golden, you were gone. Back to the rinks to drum up a living coaching. Which isin't all bad and can be very rewarding, but really isin't all THAT!
But Brian Boitano was the one who changed all that. Why you might ask?
Because he shared the wealth. Coming off his gold, he formed his own show. Gone were the hokey cheesey acts of Follies and Capades. And stupid group numbers. And single one draw stars.
Hello lighting and mood and rockin music with LIVE bands and the ultimate skater's reward ARTISTIC CONTROL!!!
The skaters were given carte blanche to cut LOOSE, have FUN! Not concepts that were or are associated with the highly controlled and often stodgy world of amateur skating.
His show generated so much buzz, that it led the way to organized professional competitions.
Hello money! Hello entertainment! Hello life after amateur!
So while I'm sorry Sasha dusted her tushy. I also know she's going to be okay, more than okay really.
Cause she's got the IT factor and she's got options.
Those two things ARE golden!
I hate it for her. Although truth be told, her prospects for post amateur lucre are so much brighter than the days of say, Dorothy Hamill
Cause really the only games in town were Ice Follies and Ice Capades.
And if you weren't golden, you were gone. Back to the rinks to drum up a living coaching. Which isin't all bad and can be very rewarding, but really isin't all THAT!
But Brian Boitano was the one who changed all that. Why you might ask?
Because he shared the wealth. Coming off his gold, he formed his own show. Gone were the hokey cheesey acts of Follies and Capades. And stupid group numbers. And single one draw stars.
Hello lighting and mood and rockin music with LIVE bands and the ultimate skater's reward ARTISTIC CONTROL!!!
The skaters were given carte blanche to cut LOOSE, have FUN! Not concepts that were or are associated with the highly controlled and often stodgy world of amateur skating.
His show generated so much buzz, that it led the way to organized professional competitions.
Hello money! Hello entertainment! Hello life after amateur!
So while I'm sorry Sasha dusted her tushy. I also know she's going to be okay, more than okay really.
Cause she's got the IT factor and she's got options.
Those two things ARE golden!
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Where I predict that Sasha Cohen
will ace the short and crap out in the long.
Everyone agonizes over the fact that she just isin't consistent enough to win the gold.
True on the gold front, but in the consistency arena
She is absolutely pitch perfect on consistency because she makes one HUGE error EVERY time.
And that's all it takes folks.
Buh bye warm GOLD with all it's endorsements and deals.
Hello cold, cruel not quite there Silver.
And lest you think I am a world class Beyotch, just know this breaks my heart because she is truly one of the most mesmerizing and lyrical skaters that I have EVER seen.
Even more so than Michelle Kwan
GASP....there I said it. And it's true.
Come to think of it, she and Michelle have a lot in common.
Unrealized potential.
I really, really want to be proven wrong on this one.
Everyone agonizes over the fact that she just isin't consistent enough to win the gold.
True on the gold front, but in the consistency arena
She is absolutely pitch perfect on consistency because she makes one HUGE error EVERY time.
And that's all it takes folks.
Buh bye warm GOLD with all it's endorsements and deals.
Hello cold, cruel not quite there Silver.
And lest you think I am a world class Beyotch, just know this breaks my heart because she is truly one of the most mesmerizing and lyrical skaters that I have EVER seen.
Even more so than Michelle Kwan
GASP....there I said it. And it's true.
Come to think of it, she and Michelle have a lot in common.
Unrealized potential.
I really, really want to be proven wrong on this one.
Our Passports have Arrived!!!
to the National Parks System!!
Thanks to Christi for cluing me on this little gem!
Washington DC is filled with National parks so I ordered these passports for the boys so they can start collecting stamps and cancellations as we visit each monument or attraction.
The passport is divided by regions of the country and provides a list of cancellation sites for each region along with mini history lessons for the region.
It's something they can take with them wherever we go in the US for the rest of their lives...cool stuff!
AND....we just got an email from our congressman last week giving us all of our reservations for the different tours, so I've been working on finalizing our itinerary.
The countdown begins.......only 11 more days!!!!
Thanks to Christi for cluing me on this little gem!
Washington DC is filled with National parks so I ordered these passports for the boys so they can start collecting stamps and cancellations as we visit each monument or attraction.
The passport is divided by regions of the country and provides a list of cancellation sites for each region along with mini history lessons for the region.
It's something they can take with them wherever we go in the US for the rest of their lives...cool stuff!
AND....we just got an email from our congressman last week giving us all of our reservations for the different tours, so I've been working on finalizing our itinerary.
The countdown begins.......only 11 more days!!!!
Monday, February 20, 2006
What is Wrong with this picture?
I looked at my post below on SrapGal and realized it read like a laundry list
When did I start measuring my worth as a
1) to do list
2) a multi tasker
3) Super Woman
Because seriously....there is very little ME time in the day that was to be my "day off" detailed in depressing and excruciating detail below
Where...why...when.... did I lose me?
***********************************************
WOOT! Play dates were lined up for both boys (oldest DH and his buddy at my house), so I have accomplished the TWELVE TASKS
1) Return and remix of paint for family room (that took an HOUR!)
2) All 2005 finacial records sorted and stored and boxed for tax prep
3) Photos from 2004 forward, sorted and stored
4) Annual OB/GYN appt (DH home at lunch to tag in)
5) THREE loads of laundry done and put away
6) Bills paid
7) Check book balanced
8) One mini album and 6 layouts done ( I LOVE Scrapworks!!)
For those who want to know...this took 2 hours...no really...TWO hours
9) Dinner made, dished and cleaned up and tomorrow's dinner in the fridge ready to be dropped in the crockpot by DH at lunch tomorrow.
10) Lunch for me and snacks for DS' packed
11) SHOWER time (nuhnuhnuhnuh...nuhnuh......nuhnuh...break it down)
12) Kids asleep, dog asleep, mommy following closely behind.
When did I start measuring my worth as a
1) to do list
2) a multi tasker
3) Super Woman
Because seriously....there is very little ME time in the day that was to be my "day off" detailed in depressing and excruciating detail below
Where...why...when.... did I lose me?
***********************************************
WOOT! Play dates were lined up for both boys (oldest DH and his buddy at my house), so I have accomplished the TWELVE TASKS
1) Return and remix of paint for family room (that took an HOUR!)
2) All 2005 finacial records sorted and stored and boxed for tax prep
3) Photos from 2004 forward, sorted and stored
4) Annual OB/GYN appt (DH home at lunch to tag in)
5) THREE loads of laundry done and put away
6) Bills paid
7) Check book balanced
8) One mini album and 6 layouts done ( I LOVE Scrapworks!!)
For those who want to know...this took 2 hours...no really...TWO hours
9) Dinner made, dished and cleaned up and tomorrow's dinner in the fridge ready to be dropped in the crockpot by DH at lunch tomorrow.
10) Lunch for me and snacks for DS' packed
11) SHOWER time (nuhnuhnuhnuh...nuhnuh......nuhnuh...break it down)
12) Kids asleep, dog asleep, mommy following closely behind.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Ice Follies
Today I took my two boys to the ice skating rink for a birthday party.
Yes... that would be me, little miss former ice princess, lacing up rentals (oh the horror!) because I couldn't find my custom boots in the abyss that is our basement.
And then moving on to lacing up the boots of my two boys and 6 other children because it was a drop off party and I'm a sucker and I said I'd help.
Actually someone narked on me and told the birthday host mom that I was a former competitive skater and she begged me to stay and help.
Yes, the operative word is "former" as in I haven't laced up a pair of skates in 15 years.
So I took a deep breath before setting blade to ice and I prayed...hard.
"Please God....don't let me fall on my ASS!" (I am a firm believer in brevity and specificity when talking with the Great I AM)
And let me just say...God is GOOD!
I was a little tentative at first, but even with crappy rentals and 15 years of neglect to the muscles and timing and posture....it all came back.
I was able to help a bunch of the kids (including my own) skate a little more confidently.
And by the end of the session I was spinning and my forward and backward strokes were good and solid.
BamBam even asked if we could come back on Monday because we had the day off.
I think I may have to search the basement a little harder for that link to my past.
Yes... that would be me, little miss former ice princess, lacing up rentals (oh the horror!) because I couldn't find my custom boots in the abyss that is our basement.
And then moving on to lacing up the boots of my two boys and 6 other children because it was a drop off party and I'm a sucker and I said I'd help.
Actually someone narked on me and told the birthday host mom that I was a former competitive skater and she begged me to stay and help.
Yes, the operative word is "former" as in I haven't laced up a pair of skates in 15 years.
So I took a deep breath before setting blade to ice and I prayed...hard.
"Please God....don't let me fall on my ASS!" (I am a firm believer in brevity and specificity when talking with the Great I AM)
And let me just say...God is GOOD!
I was a little tentative at first, but even with crappy rentals and 15 years of neglect to the muscles and timing and posture....it all came back.
I was able to help a bunch of the kids (including my own) skate a little more confidently.
And by the end of the session I was spinning and my forward and backward strokes were good and solid.
BamBam even asked if we could come back on Monday because we had the day off.
I think I may have to search the basement a little harder for that link to my past.
Friday, February 17, 2006
A Multi Tasking Revelation!
Yeah baby!
I have this new crockpot cookbook, called Not Your Mother's Slow Cooker Cookbook
LOVE it!
I predict a heavy rotation in the week-day meal planning since I've shifted my schedule (sheduuuuule...as the folks across the pond would say) working until 2:30 four days a week starting next week.
I really like this one along with my Donna Pye America's Best Slow Cooker Recipes because there's lots of tips about prep the night before and adding things in the last hour so it tastes and looks FRESH!
Anywhoo...so while contents of said crockpot bubble happily away, you can bake rice in the oven to go along with said dish.
So there is time to
1) Help kids with homework
2) pay bills
3) do laundry
4) or my personal favorite....blog or surf the net!
WOOT
here's how the deed is done.
Preheat oven to 350
Spray a 4 quart casserole with lid with Pam
Combine
3 3/4 c. broth (Guess what! Those boxes of broth you can get at the grocery store? Guess the measurement...no really guess!! okay never mind...you figured it out...yes spot on...weehoo!)
2 cups converted rice
1 tablespoon oil
Stir to combine.
Stick in oven. Walk away for 40 minutes. Fluff rice with fork. Replace lid. It will hold for another hour in the oven turned off!
(and for all you sassy singles out there.....bag it in 1 cup portions in ziplocs and freeze. Sassy singles need multi tasking tips too!)
YES....see I am a simple girl with simple needs.
Anything that streamlines my lifestyle and gives me more time for the important stuff....well THAT is a good thing!
I have this new crockpot cookbook, called Not Your Mother's Slow Cooker Cookbook
LOVE it!
I predict a heavy rotation in the week-day meal planning since I've shifted my schedule (sheduuuuule...as the folks across the pond would say) working until 2:30 four days a week starting next week.
I really like this one along with my Donna Pye America's Best Slow Cooker Recipes because there's lots of tips about prep the night before and adding things in the last hour so it tastes and looks FRESH!
Anywhoo...so while contents of said crockpot bubble happily away, you can bake rice in the oven to go along with said dish.
So there is time to
1) Help kids with homework
2) pay bills
3) do laundry
4) or my personal favorite....blog or surf the net!
WOOT
here's how the deed is done.
Preheat oven to 350
Spray a 4 quart casserole with lid with Pam
Combine
3 3/4 c. broth (Guess what! Those boxes of broth you can get at the grocery store? Guess the measurement...no really guess!! okay never mind...you figured it out...yes spot on...weehoo!)
2 cups converted rice
1 tablespoon oil
Stir to combine.
Stick in oven. Walk away for 40 minutes. Fluff rice with fork. Replace lid. It will hold for another hour in the oven turned off!
(and for all you sassy singles out there.....bag it in 1 cup portions in ziplocs and freeze. Sassy singles need multi tasking tips too!)
YES....see I am a simple girl with simple needs.
Anything that streamlines my lifestyle and gives me more time for the important stuff....well THAT is a good thing!
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
My Ten Favorite Sounds
Stole this from Corrie
Thanks for the inspiration girl!
1) The sound of a good hard down pour lulling me to sleep
2) The snap of a sail as it tacks into the wind
3) The sharp swish of a blade on glassy ice
4) The crunch of new fallen snow under foot
5) The pounding drumbeat of the ocean's surf
6) The call of a hawk to it's mate
7) A sigh of contentment
8) The squeal of delight from my boys when they see Jake, the wonder dog, in the back seat of the car during carpool
9) The clug, clug percolating sound of coffee brewing
10) silence!
Thanks for the inspiration girl!
1) The sound of a good hard down pour lulling me to sleep
2) The snap of a sail as it tacks into the wind
3) The sharp swish of a blade on glassy ice
4) The crunch of new fallen snow under foot
5) The pounding drumbeat of the ocean's surf
6) The call of a hawk to it's mate
7) A sigh of contentment
8) The squeal of delight from my boys when they see Jake, the wonder dog, in the back seat of the car during carpool
9) The clug, clug percolating sound of coffee brewing
10) silence!
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Houston...we are go for primer
YES!
The walls (aka ancient disgusting panlelling) are primed, and the trim...and the trim...and the trim.
As DH so succinctly put it....this whole #$%#^#$ room is trim work.
But it's bright and white and PRIMED!
Now if my girlfriend would just call me back from her week long "jaunt" with hubby and tell me who the blankety blank blank makes
D'anjou Pear
We'll be good to go!
T minus ten and counting!
Can you tell I'm a little loopy from the smell of oil primer?
Geesh, and I was wearing a bloody ventilatition mask.
AND woohoo, yay ME! I managed to throw veggies and gound beef in the crockpot in the morning, so there was soup for dinner!
Women? Weaker sex? I think NOT!
The walls (aka ancient disgusting panlelling) are primed, and the trim...and the trim...and the trim.
As DH so succinctly put it....this whole #$%#^#$ room is trim work.
But it's bright and white and PRIMED!
Now if my girlfriend would just call me back from her week long "jaunt" with hubby and tell me who the blankety blank blank makes
D'anjou Pear
We'll be good to go!
T minus ten and counting!
Can you tell I'm a little loopy from the smell of oil primer?
Geesh, and I was wearing a bloody ventilatition mask.
AND woohoo, yay ME! I managed to throw veggies and gound beef in the crockpot in the morning, so there was soup for dinner!
Women? Weaker sex? I think NOT!
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Home Improvement
The PLAN was to paint the family room this week-end.
Which means
Saturday
10:00AM
Run to Porter Paints to get D'Anjou Pear
Porter Paints doesn't make D'Anjou Pear
10:30 a.m.
Call girlfriend who is making painted floor canvas for family room to ask where, if not Porter Paints, did she get the paint samples, since I asked her to use Porter Paints
Girlfriend is out of town for a week.
Go to Plan B
11:00 a.m.
Run to Lowe's for a quick pick up of paint prep supplies
There is no such thing as a "quick pick up" of paint prep supplies.
12:00 pm
Go to grocery store to get ammonia to make solution to scrub down ancient panelling, as recommended by nice Lowe's paint department worker.
Scour shelves in cleaning aisle for 10 minutes. Ammonia is at the bottom. It's only 88cents. So I buy some tortilla chips since I don't think I can debit card 88 cents and I have no cash.
12:30
Make PBJ's and toss on plate with tortilla chips (Yay Mom!) to ravenous children. Toss wet laundry from washer to dryer.
1:00pm
1) Wash down panelled walls circa 1961,with ammonia/hot water solution.... oooooh...ick....gah!! How can the walls be THAT dirty???
1:30 pm
Stop what I'm doing to wrap present for youngest son to take to birthday party in 15 minutes. Youngest DS and DH depart for party.
1:45 to 2:30 pm
4) Begin to tape off all the windows and trim and doors. And WOOT....I "invented" a cool quick method to do this, it involves sharp blades. I also now have a small wound and a pretty Sponge Bob bandaid. Put it works...really!
2:30 to 2:45
Change my holey, ratty clothes and throw some make-up in the general direction of my face to make myself "presentable" for birthday party pick-up.
2:45
5) Leave to pick up youngest DS from birthday party since DH is at a county required little league coaching clinc.
3:15
Arrive back home. Change back into holey, ratty clothes.
Finish taping off all the windows.
5:00
Now I am exhausted and it's too late to start painting with an oil based primer which will stink to HIGH heaven and needs at least 6 hours to vent out of the room so we all don't end up loopy in lala land.
And we need to eat. To tired to fix dinner. Cottage cheese and mandarin oranges it is!
You get the picture.
Tomorrow we might actually get the primer on the walls.
YAY us!
And note to self....while I love "While You Were Out" ain't no way they do what they do in 48 hours without a MINIMUM 1 month of prep work.
Which means
Saturday
10:00AM
Run to Porter Paints to get D'Anjou Pear
Porter Paints doesn't make D'Anjou Pear
10:30 a.m.
Call girlfriend who is making painted floor canvas for family room to ask where, if not Porter Paints, did she get the paint samples, since I asked her to use Porter Paints
Girlfriend is out of town for a week.
Go to Plan B
11:00 a.m.
Run to Lowe's for a quick pick up of paint prep supplies
There is no such thing as a "quick pick up" of paint prep supplies.
12:00 pm
Go to grocery store to get ammonia to make solution to scrub down ancient panelling, as recommended by nice Lowe's paint department worker.
Scour shelves in cleaning aisle for 10 minutes. Ammonia is at the bottom. It's only 88cents. So I buy some tortilla chips since I don't think I can debit card 88 cents and I have no cash.
12:30
Make PBJ's and toss on plate with tortilla chips (Yay Mom!) to ravenous children. Toss wet laundry from washer to dryer.
1:00pm
1) Wash down panelled walls circa 1961,with ammonia/hot water solution.... oooooh...ick....gah!! How can the walls be THAT dirty???
1:30 pm
Stop what I'm doing to wrap present for youngest son to take to birthday party in 15 minutes. Youngest DS and DH depart for party.
1:45 to 2:30 pm
4) Begin to tape off all the windows and trim and doors. And WOOT....I "invented" a cool quick method to do this, it involves sharp blades. I also now have a small wound and a pretty Sponge Bob bandaid. Put it works...really!
2:30 to 2:45
Change my holey, ratty clothes and throw some make-up in the general direction of my face to make myself "presentable" for birthday party pick-up.
2:45
5) Leave to pick up youngest DS from birthday party since DH is at a county required little league coaching clinc.
3:15
Arrive back home. Change back into holey, ratty clothes.
Finish taping off all the windows.
5:00
Now I am exhausted and it's too late to start painting with an oil based primer which will stink to HIGH heaven and needs at least 6 hours to vent out of the room so we all don't end up loopy in lala land.
And we need to eat. To tired to fix dinner. Cottage cheese and mandarin oranges it is!
You get the picture.
Tomorrow we might actually get the primer on the walls.
YAY us!
And note to self....while I love "While You Were Out" ain't no way they do what they do in 48 hours without a MINIMUM 1 month of prep work.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Goodnight & Godspeed Gracious Lady
Yesterday I sat and watched the funeral of Coretta Scott King that was held here in Atlanta.
And all I can say is when I pass on, I want my family and friends to gather and remember me (on a much smaller scale of course) the way she was remembered yesterday.
It was a true celebration of her life and calling.
Laughter and tears mixed together as four presidents, religious and civil rights leaders and family, friends all eulogized this great lady and the music, oh my word the music! There had to have been at least 10 different choirs singing, all of it moving, spiritual, deep.
As I sat and listened to speaker after speaker pay tribute to this woman, I learned so much about her as a woman, a mother, a friend, a quiet woman of force, a true "steel" magnolia.
I owe her and her husband a debt of gratitude for their impact on my life because the civil rights movement was about equality for ALL, not just the back minority and I think that message caused a social reordering that spilled over and empowered the womens rights movement of the 70's.
Coretta's legacy for me is not that she was merely the wife of a great man, although that role was one of great importance. It was that she continued on with her husband's work and vision, when I think personally, I would have withdrawn from public life.
So thank you Mrs. King.
Thank you for your part in helping me have all the opportunities I have today.
Thank you that you never, ever stopped trying to bring about the realization a better world.
Thank you for making a difference.
Goodnight and Godspeed.
And all I can say is when I pass on, I want my family and friends to gather and remember me (on a much smaller scale of course) the way she was remembered yesterday.
It was a true celebration of her life and calling.
Laughter and tears mixed together as four presidents, religious and civil rights leaders and family, friends all eulogized this great lady and the music, oh my word the music! There had to have been at least 10 different choirs singing, all of it moving, spiritual, deep.
As I sat and listened to speaker after speaker pay tribute to this woman, I learned so much about her as a woman, a mother, a friend, a quiet woman of force, a true "steel" magnolia.
I owe her and her husband a debt of gratitude for their impact on my life because the civil rights movement was about equality for ALL, not just the back minority and I think that message caused a social reordering that spilled over and empowered the womens rights movement of the 70's.
Coretta's legacy for me is not that she was merely the wife of a great man, although that role was one of great importance. It was that she continued on with her husband's work and vision, when I think personally, I would have withdrawn from public life.
So thank you Mrs. King.
Thank you for your part in helping me have all the opportunities I have today.
Thank you that you never, ever stopped trying to bring about the realization a better world.
Thank you for making a difference.
Goodnight and Godspeed.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Super Bowl Sunday
Yes folks, it's here......the long awaited EXCUSE to watch the most clever and humorous commercials of the year...WOOT!
Me, myself and I have been spending the last 7 hours enduring Thumper's plaintitve whines of:
"Are we going to the party YET? How many more hours? Is it time yet? I'm boooooorrrrrrrreeeeddd!!!!!"
Meanwhile, I'm dressed in black and gold...I'm pulling for the Steelers (really....black and gold is what's clean in my closet)
Longhorn Caviar is chillin in the fridge
And we're T minus 2 hours and counting until we splash down at the cul de sac where the Friday Zoo Crew awaits.
Me, myself and I have been spending the last 7 hours enduring Thumper's plaintitve whines of:
"Are we going to the party YET? How many more hours? Is it time yet? I'm boooooorrrrrrrreeeeddd!!!!!"
Meanwhile, I'm dressed in black and gold...I'm pulling for the Steelers (really....black and gold is what's clean in my closet)
Longhorn Caviar is chillin in the fridge
And we're T minus 2 hours and counting until we splash down at the cul de sac where the Friday Zoo Crew awaits.
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
I have been a bad little blogger
I can't believe I have gone almost a week without blogging....I blame it ALL on the 7 day process that is known as birthday week insert WOOHAH here!) or the lingering effects of Saturday night.
Read on.
I am still in total shock from Saturday.
Take note ladies and gentlemen, that after 18 plus years of marriage my husband, STILL manages to surprise me.
Remember the little bit about the wine bar on Saturday night?
I am so excited! I have on my flirty little black fringed skirt and peasant top and killer boots and I beepop (yes beepop) into the wine bar and head for my customary place on the cushioned banquet filled with sumptious pillows, plop myself down and hubby says
"Oh honey look. We can't sit here. All the seats are reserved. See the little placecards?"
"HUH????? In the what what??? It's MY birthday...that is so not RIGHT!"
Flounce to beautifully carved mahongany bar "Well guess THIS will have to do" Plop...slight pout
Life is not fair sometimes, even on your birthday. So there we sit, me consoling myself by munching on a cheese plate and crab cakes and salad.
Ahhhhhhhhhh yes....the Salad.
That would be the bartenders salad. He let me eat all of the little marinated onions out of his salad before he started because he saw me polish off all of hubby's in 5 minutes flat. And well cause (throwing hands in air and squealing) "It's MY birthday!
And well, we're regulars and did I mention I had a really cute little flirty fringed skirt with killer boots to match?
Note...... I'm not pouting as much now.
Back to my oblivious munching and drinking of very good Pinot Noir. After about an hour, I'm talking to hubby and look over his shoulder to see a PROCESSION.
And in the procession who to my wondering eyes should appear.... but 15 of my closest friends (my Friday Zoo Crew) filing into the restaurant shouting "Happy Birthday" at the top of their lungs.
A PROCESSION I say ...cause I'm the QUEEN and every QUEEN needs a procession...dang SKIPPY!
I turn to hubby. He smirks, then grins. DAMN, I love that man.
And yeah, the reserved signs on the tables where I couldn't sit?
Yes...those would be for MOI!
I blushed. I cried. I laughed...hard.
More people arrived throughout the night.
I was showered with cards and presents and love and food and FRIENDS.
Postcript
Sometimes when times seem their darkest, a warm light shines that just bathes you in love and comfort.
Saturday night was one of those nights.
And I'll hold it in my heart forever.
Read on.
I am still in total shock from Saturday.
Take note ladies and gentlemen, that after 18 plus years of marriage my husband, STILL manages to surprise me.
Remember the little bit about the wine bar on Saturday night?
I am so excited! I have on my flirty little black fringed skirt and peasant top and killer boots and I beepop (yes beepop) into the wine bar and head for my customary place on the cushioned banquet filled with sumptious pillows, plop myself down and hubby says
"Oh honey look. We can't sit here. All the seats are reserved. See the little placecards?"
"HUH????? In the what what??? It's MY birthday...that is so not RIGHT!"
Flounce to beautifully carved mahongany bar "Well guess THIS will have to do" Plop...slight pout
Life is not fair sometimes, even on your birthday. So there we sit, me consoling myself by munching on a cheese plate and crab cakes and salad.
Ahhhhhhhhhh yes....the Salad.
That would be the bartenders salad. He let me eat all of the little marinated onions out of his salad before he started because he saw me polish off all of hubby's in 5 minutes flat. And well cause (throwing hands in air and squealing) "It's MY birthday!
And well, we're regulars and did I mention I had a really cute little flirty fringed skirt with killer boots to match?
Note...... I'm not pouting as much now.
Back to my oblivious munching and drinking of very good Pinot Noir. After about an hour, I'm talking to hubby and look over his shoulder to see a PROCESSION.
And in the procession who to my wondering eyes should appear.... but 15 of my closest friends (my Friday Zoo Crew) filing into the restaurant shouting "Happy Birthday" at the top of their lungs.
A PROCESSION I say ...cause I'm the QUEEN and every QUEEN needs a procession...dang SKIPPY!
I turn to hubby. He smirks, then grins. DAMN, I love that man.
And yeah, the reserved signs on the tables where I couldn't sit?
Yes...those would be for MOI!
I blushed. I cried. I laughed...hard.
More people arrived throughout the night.
I was showered with cards and presents and love and food and FRIENDS.
Postcript
Sometimes when times seem their darkest, a warm light shines that just bathes you in love and comfort.
Saturday night was one of those nights.
And I'll hold it in my heart forever.
Friday, January 27, 2006
Birthday Play by Play
Since I know you all are DYING to know...here was/are the plans, in PARTICULAR order!
Wednesday, lunch with girlfriend at Figo, yummy Italian place. Much good girl talk.
Thursday night, wonderful call with Nancy aka shoegal. We snarked over and while watching Dancing with the Stars and martinis and husbands and kids and life in general.
This morning, BamBam, Thumper and Jake the wonder lab all descended in one loud, hyper and love filled heap on my bed and the human boys proceeded to sing "Happy Birthday" in my ear at full lung strength whilst the dog licked my face and my husband laughed..HARD!
Lunch.....Casa Yo Mama with my three men (early dismissal day from school for the boys). Tortilla soup for me followed by food coma.
Tonight is movie night and momma does not cook, but shall open presents and all cards with glass o wine in hand. Afterwards I will finish reading "Love Walked In"....halfway through and veddy veddy good by the way.
Tomorrow ..I shall deliver scrap for hire album, collect $300 (deposit in DC trip savings account) and come home and SCRAP all day!!!
In the evening, hubby and I head off to the wine bar in Dunwoody for tapas, wine (duh) and a piano player who plays the old romantic standards! We shall dance and smooch and be silly and romantic.
Sunday.....church and birthday luncheon with the inlaws.
Tuesday, birthday celebration at work and lunch with my girlfriends. I had planned on Silk, an absolutely swank and delish Thai restaurant up the street from my office, but now that a big ole car went and crashed THROUGH the restaurant this morning, causing "significant structural damage" I'll have to rethink lunch locale plans.
So there you have it...WOOT...Happy Birthday to ME!
(ahem...yes I do subscribe to the spread your birthday out over 7 days theory. Because tis GOOD to be the Queen!)
Wednesday, lunch with girlfriend at Figo, yummy Italian place. Much good girl talk.
Thursday night, wonderful call with Nancy aka shoegal. We snarked over and while watching Dancing with the Stars and martinis and husbands and kids and life in general.
This morning, BamBam, Thumper and Jake the wonder lab all descended in one loud, hyper and love filled heap on my bed and the human boys proceeded to sing "Happy Birthday" in my ear at full lung strength whilst the dog licked my face and my husband laughed..HARD!
Lunch.....Casa Yo Mama with my three men (early dismissal day from school for the boys). Tortilla soup for me followed by food coma.
Tonight is movie night and momma does not cook, but shall open presents and all cards with glass o wine in hand. Afterwards I will finish reading "Love Walked In"....halfway through and veddy veddy good by the way.
Tomorrow ..I shall deliver scrap for hire album, collect $300 (deposit in DC trip savings account) and come home and SCRAP all day!!!
In the evening, hubby and I head off to the wine bar in Dunwoody for tapas, wine (duh) and a piano player who plays the old romantic standards! We shall dance and smooch and be silly and romantic.
Sunday.....church and birthday luncheon with the inlaws.
Tuesday, birthday celebration at work and lunch with my girlfriends. I had planned on Silk, an absolutely swank and delish Thai restaurant up the street from my office, but now that a big ole car went and crashed THROUGH the restaurant this morning, causing "significant structural damage" I'll have to rethink lunch locale plans.
So there you have it...WOOT...Happy Birthday to ME!
(ahem...yes I do subscribe to the spread your birthday out over 7 days theory. Because tis GOOD to be the Queen!)
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Wax and Women and Who ha's
I can't claim credit for this. God I wish I could. it is that funny. I could quit my day job and become a supastah comedic celebrity. But Alas no.
It was sent to me by a girlfriend and since it made me laugh until I was gasping and weeping and unable to articulate anything remotely coherent except the gasping and the weeping, I had to share.
Enjoy
One Woman's Tale of Woe
All hair removal methods have tricked women with their promises of easy, painless removal
The epilady, scissors, razors, Nair and now...the wax.
My night began as any other normal weeknight. Come home, fix dinner,
play with the kids. I then had the thought that would ring painfully in my mind for the next few hours:
"Maybe I should pull the waxing kit out of the medicine cabinet."
So I headed to the site of my demise: the bathroom.
It was one of those "cold wax" kits. No melting a clump of hot wax, you just rub the strips together in your hand, they get warm and you peel them apart and press them to your leg (or wherever else) and you pull the hair right off. No muss, no fuss.
How hard can it be?
I mean, I'm not a genius, but I am mechanically inclined enough to
figure this out. (YA THINK!?!) So I pull one of the thin strips out. Its two strips facing each other stuck together.
Instead of rubbing them together, my genius kicks in so I get out the hair dryer and heat it to 1000 degrees. ("Cold wax," yeah...right!)
I lay the strip across my thigh. Hold the skin around it tight and pull.
It works! OK, so it wasn't the best feeling, but it wasn't too bad.
I can do this! Hair removal no longer eludes me! I am She-rah, fighter of all wayward body hair and maker of smooth skin extraordinaire.
With my next wax strip I move north. After checking on the kids, I sneak back into the bathroom, for the ultimate hair fighting championship.
I drop my panties and place one foot on the toilet. Using the same procedure, I apply the wax strip across the right side of my
bikini line, covering the right half of my vagina and stretching down to the inside of my butt cheek
(Yes, it was a long strip)
I inhale deeply and brace myself....RRRRIIIPPP!!!!
I'm blind!!! Blinded from pain!!!!....OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!! Vision
returning,I notice that I've only managed to pull off half the strip.
CRAP!!! Another deep breath and RRIIPP!! Everything is swirly and
spotted. I think I may pass out...must stay conscious...Do I hear crashing drums???
Breathe, breathe...OK, back to normal.
I want to see my trophy - a wax covered strip, the one that has caused me so much pain, with my hairy pelt sticking to it. I want to revel in the glory that is my triumph over body hair. I hold up the strip!
There's no hair on it. Where is the hair??? WHERE IS THE WAX???
Slowly I ease my head down, foot still perched on the toilet. I see the hair. The hair that should be on the strip. I touch. I am touching wax.
CRAP! I run my fingers over the most sensitive part of my body, which is now covered in cold wax and matted hair.
Then I make the next BIG mistake...remember my foot
is still propped up on the toilet? I know I need to do something. So I put my foot down.
DAMN!!!!!!!! I hear the slamming of a cell door.
Vagina? Sealed shut! Butt?? Sealed shut!
I penguin walk around the bathroom trying to figure out what to do and think to myself "Please don't let me get the urge to poop.
My head may pop off!"
What can I do to melt the wax? Hot water!! Hot water
melts wax!! I'll run the hottest water I can stand into the bathtub, get in immerse the wax-covered bits and the wax should melt and I can gently wipe it off,
Right??? *WRONG!!!!!!!*
I get in the tub - the water is slightly hotter than that used to
torture prisoners of war or sterilize surgical equipment - I sit.
Now, the only thing worse than having your nether regions glued
together, is having them glued together and then glued to the bottom of the tub...in scalding hot water. Which, by the way, doesn't melt cold wax.
So, now I'm stuck to the bottom of the tub as though I had
cement-epoxied myself to the porcelain!!
God bless the man who had convinced me a few months ago
to have a phone put in the bathroom!!!!!
I call my friend, thinking surely she has waxed before and has some
secret of how to get me undone. It's a very good conversation starter -
"So, my butt and who-ha are glued together to the bottom of the tub!"
There is a slight pause. She doesn't know any secret tricks for removal but she does try to hide her laughter from me. She wants to know exactly where the wax is located, "Are we talking cheeks or hole or who-ha?"
She's laughing out loud by now...I can hear her. I give her the rundown and she suggests I call the number on the side of the box. YEAH!!!!! Right!!
I should be the joke of someone else's night. While we go through
various solutions, I resort to scraping the wax off with a razor.
Nothing feels better then to have your girlie goodies covered in hot wax, glued shut, stuck to the tub in super hot water
and then dry-shaving the sticky wax off!!
By now the brain is not working, dignity has taken a major hike and
I'm pretty sure I'm going to need Post-Traumatic Stress counseling for this event.
My friend is still talking with me when I finally see my saving
grace....the lotion they give you to remove the excess wax. What do I really have to lose at this point?
I rub some on and OH MY GOD!!!!!!!
The scream probably woke the kids and scared the dickens out of my
friend.
It's sooo painful, but I really don't care. " It works!! IT WORKS!! "
I get a hearty congratulation from my friend and she hangs up.
I successfully remove the remainder of the wax and then notice to my
grief and despair....THE HAIR IS STILL THERE.......ALL OF
IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
So I recklessly shave it off. Heck, I'm numb by now.
Nothing hurts. I could have amputated my own leg at this point.
Next week I'm going to try hair color......
It was sent to me by a girlfriend and since it made me laugh until I was gasping and weeping and unable to articulate anything remotely coherent except the gasping and the weeping, I had to share.
Enjoy
One Woman's Tale of Woe
All hair removal methods have tricked women with their promises of easy, painless removal
The epilady, scissors, razors, Nair and now...the wax.
My night began as any other normal weeknight. Come home, fix dinner,
play with the kids. I then had the thought that would ring painfully in my mind for the next few hours:
"Maybe I should pull the waxing kit out of the medicine cabinet."
So I headed to the site of my demise: the bathroom.
It was one of those "cold wax" kits. No melting a clump of hot wax, you just rub the strips together in your hand, they get warm and you peel them apart and press them to your leg (or wherever else) and you pull the hair right off. No muss, no fuss.
How hard can it be?
I mean, I'm not a genius, but I am mechanically inclined enough to
figure this out. (YA THINK!?!) So I pull one of the thin strips out. Its two strips facing each other stuck together.
Instead of rubbing them together, my genius kicks in so I get out the hair dryer and heat it to 1000 degrees. ("Cold wax," yeah...right!)
I lay the strip across my thigh. Hold the skin around it tight and pull.
It works! OK, so it wasn't the best feeling, but it wasn't too bad.
I can do this! Hair removal no longer eludes me! I am She-rah, fighter of all wayward body hair and maker of smooth skin extraordinaire.
With my next wax strip I move north. After checking on the kids, I sneak back into the bathroom, for the ultimate hair fighting championship.
I drop my panties and place one foot on the toilet. Using the same procedure, I apply the wax strip across the right side of my
bikini line, covering the right half of my vagina and stretching down to the inside of my butt cheek
(Yes, it was a long strip)
I inhale deeply and brace myself....RRRRIIIPPP!!!!
I'm blind!!! Blinded from pain!!!!....OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!! Vision
returning,I notice that I've only managed to pull off half the strip.
CRAP!!! Another deep breath and RRIIPP!! Everything is swirly and
spotted. I think I may pass out...must stay conscious...Do I hear crashing drums???
Breathe, breathe...OK, back to normal.
I want to see my trophy - a wax covered strip, the one that has caused me so much pain, with my hairy pelt sticking to it. I want to revel in the glory that is my triumph over body hair. I hold up the strip!
There's no hair on it. Where is the hair??? WHERE IS THE WAX???
Slowly I ease my head down, foot still perched on the toilet. I see the hair. The hair that should be on the strip. I touch. I am touching wax.
CRAP! I run my fingers over the most sensitive part of my body, which is now covered in cold wax and matted hair.
Then I make the next BIG mistake...remember my foot
is still propped up on the toilet? I know I need to do something. So I put my foot down.
DAMN!!!!!!!! I hear the slamming of a cell door.
Vagina? Sealed shut! Butt?? Sealed shut!
I penguin walk around the bathroom trying to figure out what to do and think to myself "Please don't let me get the urge to poop.
My head may pop off!"
What can I do to melt the wax? Hot water!! Hot water
melts wax!! I'll run the hottest water I can stand into the bathtub, get in immerse the wax-covered bits and the wax should melt and I can gently wipe it off,
Right??? *WRONG!!!!!!!*
I get in the tub - the water is slightly hotter than that used to
torture prisoners of war or sterilize surgical equipment - I sit.
Now, the only thing worse than having your nether regions glued
together, is having them glued together and then glued to the bottom of the tub...in scalding hot water. Which, by the way, doesn't melt cold wax.
So, now I'm stuck to the bottom of the tub as though I had
cement-epoxied myself to the porcelain!!
God bless the man who had convinced me a few months ago
to have a phone put in the bathroom!!!!!
I call my friend, thinking surely she has waxed before and has some
secret of how to get me undone. It's a very good conversation starter -
"So, my butt and who-ha are glued together to the bottom of the tub!"
There is a slight pause. She doesn't know any secret tricks for removal but she does try to hide her laughter from me. She wants to know exactly where the wax is located, "Are we talking cheeks or hole or who-ha?"
She's laughing out loud by now...I can hear her. I give her the rundown and she suggests I call the number on the side of the box. YEAH!!!!! Right!!
I should be the joke of someone else's night. While we go through
various solutions, I resort to scraping the wax off with a razor.
Nothing feels better then to have your girlie goodies covered in hot wax, glued shut, stuck to the tub in super hot water
and then dry-shaving the sticky wax off!!
By now the brain is not working, dignity has taken a major hike and
I'm pretty sure I'm going to need Post-Traumatic Stress counseling for this event.
My friend is still talking with me when I finally see my saving
grace....the lotion they give you to remove the excess wax. What do I really have to lose at this point?
I rub some on and OH MY GOD!!!!!!!
The scream probably woke the kids and scared the dickens out of my
friend.
It's sooo painful, but I really don't care. " It works!! IT WORKS!! "
I get a hearty congratulation from my friend and she hangs up.
I successfully remove the remainder of the wax and then notice to my
grief and despair....THE HAIR IS STILL THERE.......ALL OF
IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
So I recklessly shave it off. Heck, I'm numb by now.
Nothing hurts. I could have amputated my own leg at this point.
Next week I'm going to try hair color......
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Parents
Wen's entry today about parenting and the little moments that make it all worthwhile got me to thinking.
Eespecially in light of this amazing new book that I picked up at the library today. It has sucked me in, and I am pausing only long enough to post a blogging tag/ challenge and to fill my lungs before plunging back in for more.
In Lani Diane Rich's novel "Ex and the Single Girl" she writes
"It doesn't matter who your parents are or how wealthy or sick or ambivalent your realtionship with them is, they will always be the most powerful people in your life. They will be the ones whose approval you will always crave. They will be the ones who hold the power to elate or crush you with a word....your parents will always be the people who juggle knives over your heart. If you're lucky, they'll know it and juggle carefully."
I tag
Wendy
Corrie
Carrie
Christi
Talk amongst yourselves...I'll post my own observations later.
Eespecially in light of this amazing new book that I picked up at the library today. It has sucked me in, and I am pausing only long enough to post a blogging tag/ challenge and to fill my lungs before plunging back in for more.
In Lani Diane Rich's novel "Ex and the Single Girl" she writes
"It doesn't matter who your parents are or how wealthy or sick or ambivalent your realtionship with them is, they will always be the most powerful people in your life. They will be the ones whose approval you will always crave. They will be the ones who hold the power to elate or crush you with a word....your parents will always be the people who juggle knives over your heart. If you're lucky, they'll know it and juggle carefully."
I tag
Wendy
Corrie
Carrie
Christi
Talk amongst yourselves...I'll post my own observations later.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Save the last dance
for me...toot toot...hey...beep beep!!!
Yeah baby...picture it.
Me and Thumper, birthday party, Sunday, after 5 hours of church, Sunday school and Scouts and Me.
Let's just say Mamma was ready to get her YAYA's out!
So we arrive at Sparkles! The whole name "Sparkles" just radiates, bright, clean, wholesome family fun right?
Well check on the wholesome, family fun part.
The bright, clean part? Not so much.
I walk in the door and instantly my senses are assailed by some unholy mix that was equal parts, mildew, sweat, decay, neglect...ACK
Thumper, having attended a birthday party at said "establishment" earlier in the school year, looked at me sympathetically and said "It DOES stink.... huh Mommy?"
Bright? I think somebody forgot to pay the power bill.
But I put on my mommy "game" face and forge ahead to the sign in tables
Yes........ we are with the So and So party
Yes..........we would like inline skates
Yes....... we will sign your nice little form, absolving you of all liability despite the fact that your establishment should have been closed down by the health department years ago.
Moving on.
We wait in line, get our skates, I have to take a MEN'S size TEN because that's all they have left and they are CRACKED! No seriously, there is a crack in the shell of the boot.
I mean I know I am a whopping 5'10" in my stocking feet, but I was SWIMMING in the 10's.
Sigh
So I tighten them the best I can, adjust Thumper's boots, grab his hand and step out onto the "dance floor"
And we had a BALL!
Those who know me, know I used to ice skate competitively. So the whole thing with roller blades wasn't that much of a transition except for
CRAP
Like skiing, you can't use outside edges (smacking forehead and dusting derriere off gingerly)
Other than that little hurdle, Thumper and I had a grand old time, shaking our groove thangs, cha cha'ing and otherwise acting like complete goofballs.
Sometimes...it's good to be the Queen!
Yeah baby...picture it.
Me and Thumper, birthday party, Sunday, after 5 hours of church, Sunday school and Scouts and Me.
Let's just say Mamma was ready to get her YAYA's out!
So we arrive at Sparkles! The whole name "Sparkles" just radiates, bright, clean, wholesome family fun right?
Well check on the wholesome, family fun part.
The bright, clean part? Not so much.
I walk in the door and instantly my senses are assailed by some unholy mix that was equal parts, mildew, sweat, decay, neglect...ACK
Thumper, having attended a birthday party at said "establishment" earlier in the school year, looked at me sympathetically and said "It DOES stink.... huh Mommy?"
Bright? I think somebody forgot to pay the power bill.
But I put on my mommy "game" face and forge ahead to the sign in tables
Yes........ we are with the So and So party
Yes..........we would like inline skates
Yes....... we will sign your nice little form, absolving you of all liability despite the fact that your establishment should have been closed down by the health department years ago.
Moving on.
We wait in line, get our skates, I have to take a MEN'S size TEN because that's all they have left and they are CRACKED! No seriously, there is a crack in the shell of the boot.
I mean I know I am a whopping 5'10" in my stocking feet, but I was SWIMMING in the 10's.
Sigh
So I tighten them the best I can, adjust Thumper's boots, grab his hand and step out onto the "dance floor"
And we had a BALL!
Those who know me, know I used to ice skate competitively. So the whole thing with roller blades wasn't that much of a transition except for
CRAP
Like skiing, you can't use outside edges (smacking forehead and dusting derriere off gingerly)
Other than that little hurdle, Thumper and I had a grand old time, shaking our groove thangs, cha cha'ing and otherwise acting like complete goofballs.
Sometimes...it's good to be the Queen!
Saturday, January 21, 2006
DC Baby!
Christi guessed it!
Yes!
We are planning on heading off to Washington DC in March during our kids Spring Break. Hubby cashed in all his Marriot Points and we're staying for free for 6 days in a beautiful hotel just outside of DC in Falls Church. The hotel has an indoor pool (parental sanity saver #1) and a 5 minute shuttle to the Metro line (parental sanity saver #2) and it all adds up to SWEET!
We are driving to DC (saving those frequent flyer miles for our 20th anniversary trip sans kids to Italy!)
Checklist
1) I've been to Borders to buy the "Unofficial Guide to DC" If you all aren't familiar with this series of tour guides, you MUST check them out! The one we used for Disney turned a one day trip into a trip of a lifetime...pinky promise.
2) Hubby has also been in touch with our local congressman's office. He and the congressman serve on a board of trustee's together, so we should be able to get all the passes we need to the sites we want to see!
3) I've mapped out our prelim itinerary, (completely subject to change based on what our congressman can get for us in terms of tours)
4) Christi...can you post that link here for the National Treasure tour? I've already got the photo safari link saved!
All four of us are such history GEEKS that this is a dream come true! Hubby and I have been to DC before as 12 year olds, but being able to share this with our kids, who at a younger age, can spit back facts with more insight than we could at twelve is icing on the cake.
I'll be posting more in the months ahead, but for now..... Geek alert, Geek alert...we are DC bound the first full week in March!
Yes!
We are planning on heading off to Washington DC in March during our kids Spring Break. Hubby cashed in all his Marriot Points and we're staying for free for 6 days in a beautiful hotel just outside of DC in Falls Church. The hotel has an indoor pool (parental sanity saver #1) and a 5 minute shuttle to the Metro line (parental sanity saver #2) and it all adds up to SWEET!
We are driving to DC (saving those frequent flyer miles for our 20th anniversary trip sans kids to Italy!)
Checklist
1) I've been to Borders to buy the "Unofficial Guide to DC" If you all aren't familiar with this series of tour guides, you MUST check them out! The one we used for Disney turned a one day trip into a trip of a lifetime...pinky promise.
2) Hubby has also been in touch with our local congressman's office. He and the congressman serve on a board of trustee's together, so we should be able to get all the passes we need to the sites we want to see!
3) I've mapped out our prelim itinerary, (completely subject to change based on what our congressman can get for us in terms of tours)
4) Christi...can you post that link here for the National Treasure tour? I've already got the photo safari link saved!
All four of us are such history GEEKS that this is a dream come true! Hubby and I have been to DC before as 12 year olds, but being able to share this with our kids, who at a younger age, can spit back facts with more insight than we could at twelve is icing on the cake.
I'll be posting more in the months ahead, but for now..... Geek alert, Geek alert...we are DC bound the first full week in March!
Tagged!
Been tagged by Christi!
What scrapbooking lines/products/etc do you DISlike?
The only thing I don't like is really juvenile, cutesy stuff.
What is the hardest thing you’ve ever had to scrap?
There's a story in every photo, so I can't really say anything has been ahrd so far.
What technique do you use more than any other?
stamping
Ever been published?
yes
What’s the smallest scrap of paper you save?
None! I give them all to my kids to use in THEIR scrapbooks!
Ever have any scrapbooking-related injuries?
An exacto knife.....sliced the heck out of the tip of my finger once. Needless to say handcut titles and me have parted ways.
Finish the sentence… “If I wasn’t a scrapbooker, I would spend my money….”
Books!!!!
Give us your best storage or organizational idea.
I use my leftover REpbulic of Tea tins for all my pencils and pens, they are like little works of art!
You just won a week-long scrapbooking cruise for 4. Who’s going with you?
That is so hard, but for sentimental reasons, I'll go with all my former STM girlies,
Wendy cause she makes me laugh HARD!
Co because she's a bubbly bundle of energy
Nancy cause she mixes a wicked good martini
Christi cause she she was supposed to go with us to CHA last year and couldn't.
What scrapbooking lines/products/etc do you DISlike?
The only thing I don't like is really juvenile, cutesy stuff.
What is the hardest thing you’ve ever had to scrap?
There's a story in every photo, so I can't really say anything has been ahrd so far.
What technique do you use more than any other?
stamping
Ever been published?
yes
What’s the smallest scrap of paper you save?
None! I give them all to my kids to use in THEIR scrapbooks!
Ever have any scrapbooking-related injuries?
An exacto knife.....sliced the heck out of the tip of my finger once. Needless to say handcut titles and me have parted ways.
Finish the sentence… “If I wasn’t a scrapbooker, I would spend my money….”
Books!!!!
Give us your best storage or organizational idea.
I use my leftover REpbulic of Tea tins for all my pencils and pens, they are like little works of art!
You just won a week-long scrapbooking cruise for 4. Who’s going with you?
That is so hard, but for sentimental reasons, I'll go with all my former STM girlies,
Wendy cause she makes me laugh HARD!
Co because she's a bubbly bundle of energy
Nancy cause she mixes a wicked good martini
Christi cause she she was supposed to go with us to CHA last year and couldn't.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
On the small silver screen tonight
Chocolat!!!
Does it get ANY better than this?
Johnny Depp....swoon...he is an acting god!
Lena Olin.....I adore her!
And chocolate!!! Onscreen and in my little goodie bag I'm bringing to the fete.
We're debating on whether to make Phil watch it in French with English subtitles, but may cut him a break beacuse it is a primo chick flick after all.
I love chick flick movie night...the PERFECT way to celebrate Hump Day!
Does it get ANY better than this?
Johnny Depp....swoon...he is an acting god!
Lena Olin.....I adore her!
And chocolate!!! Onscreen and in my little goodie bag I'm bringing to the fete.
We're debating on whether to make Phil watch it in French with English subtitles, but may cut him a break beacuse it is a primo chick flick after all.
I love chick flick movie night...the PERFECT way to celebrate Hump Day!
Monday, January 16, 2006
Hunk o hunk of burnin love............
................scrappin mojo that is!
Now if I could just feel the LOVE for my own photos....snort!
Today...yes today...I completed 22, yes that is TWENTY TWO 12 x 12 pages for a client who hired me to do two years of her beach photos.
Working a strong CZ vibe and a pile of KI Memories and Bazzill later, with some HS embellies and Rubons to round it all out and I am DONE!
Woot!!!
Dang I'm tired....I hear a glass of Bogle Chardonnay calling my name. That is if I can get off my tush and work my way down to the fridge.
And bonus!
The money from the job is going into our Spring Break fund.
More on that later....something new... something different...something the WHOLE family will love!
Anyone want to play 20 questions??? (Well except for Wen...she won't play with me anymore...huuummmppphhh!)
and I'm not talking Disney...nothin wrong with that....just not...THAT!)
Plans are in the works people and I am excited for Spring Break in a way I haven't been for YEARS!
Now if I could just feel the LOVE for my own photos....snort!
Today...yes today...I completed 22, yes that is TWENTY TWO 12 x 12 pages for a client who hired me to do two years of her beach photos.
Working a strong CZ vibe and a pile of KI Memories and Bazzill later, with some HS embellies and Rubons to round it all out and I am DONE!
Woot!!!
Dang I'm tired....I hear a glass of Bogle Chardonnay calling my name. That is if I can get off my tush and work my way down to the fridge.
And bonus!
The money from the job is going into our Spring Break fund.
More on that later....something new... something different...something the WHOLE family will love!
Anyone want to play 20 questions??? (Well except for Wen...she won't play with me anymore...huuummmppphhh!)
and I'm not talking Disney...nothin wrong with that....just not...THAT!)
Plans are in the works people and I am excited for Spring Break in a way I haven't been for YEARS!
Friday, January 13, 2006
Not that there was any doubt!!!
Ladies Night Update
It was a smash!
We ended up going with Sabrina instead and after all these viewings I picked up on a new line. I can't imagine how I missed this one because it is TRES excellent!
“All columnists should be beaten to a pulp and converted back into paper!”
Now THAT is seriously funny!
Between that and the infinitely quotable line from LOST this week...............
"So what are you going to do? Beat me with your Jesus Stick?"......................
has left me with some keepers to add to my quote book!
And it's Trivia time...yes it is!
If you love Sabrina as much as I do, or are just a sucker for trivia...read on for these fascinating tidbits. You never know, you might be on Jeopardy one day and the DAily Double willl be Sabrina for $1000 and you will SMOKE it!
The original 1954. The remake 1995.
This was the second film in a row where Audrey Hepburn gets her hair cut as a symbol of maturity. The first was in Roman Holiday (1953). It is also the first of four films in a row where she'd play a character romantically linked with a man old enough to be her father. See below.
Co-stars Audrey Hepburn and William Holden fell in love during the making of this film, but Hepburn broke off the relationship on learning that Holden could not have children.
No matter what, Humphrey Bogart had to quit work at 6pm on the dot, because that was the time he started drinking his Scotch and sodas. If anyone tried to get him to work after 6pm, he would just walk away.
Finally, in 1954, when the movie was made Humphrey Bogart was 55 YEARS OLD!
Thanks to my friend Phil for sending those to me after our ladies night. (Who obviously knows how to do the linky thing - see post above. I am linky... and come to think of it, blinky challenged. But hey...I can flat out COOK!)
Yes, you heard me, we have an interloper in our midst. But he's trying to get in touch with his feminine side and he hosts it so we can be without darling little appendages, otherwise known as children.
And besides, one more male who can be brought over from the dark side to the light, well we considered it a public service actually!
next week?
An Officer and a Gentlemen!
We ended up going with Sabrina instead and after all these viewings I picked up on a new line. I can't imagine how I missed this one because it is TRES excellent!
“All columnists should be beaten to a pulp and converted back into paper!”
Now THAT is seriously funny!
Between that and the infinitely quotable line from LOST this week...............
"So what are you going to do? Beat me with your Jesus Stick?"......................
has left me with some keepers to add to my quote book!
And it's Trivia time...yes it is!
If you love Sabrina as much as I do, or are just a sucker for trivia...read on for these fascinating tidbits. You never know, you might be on Jeopardy one day and the DAily Double willl be Sabrina for $1000 and you will SMOKE it!
The original 1954. The remake 1995.
This was the second film in a row where Audrey Hepburn gets her hair cut as a symbol of maturity. The first was in Roman Holiday (1953). It is also the first of four films in a row where she'd play a character romantically linked with a man old enough to be her father. See below.
Co-stars Audrey Hepburn and William Holden fell in love during the making of this film, but Hepburn broke off the relationship on learning that Holden could not have children.
No matter what, Humphrey Bogart had to quit work at 6pm on the dot, because that was the time he started drinking his Scotch and sodas. If anyone tried to get him to work after 6pm, he would just walk away.
Finally, in 1954, when the movie was made Humphrey Bogart was 55 YEARS OLD!
Thanks to my friend Phil for sending those to me after our ladies night. (Who obviously knows how to do the linky thing - see post above. I am linky... and come to think of it, blinky challenged. But hey...I can flat out COOK!)
Yes, you heard me, we have an interloper in our midst. But he's trying to get in touch with his feminine side and he hosts it so we can be without darling little appendages, otherwise known as children.
And besides, one more male who can be brought over from the dark side to the light, well we considered it a public service actually!
next week?
An Officer and a Gentlemen!
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Tagged....I'm it
This from Wen.....geesh, such a challenge for so early in th emorning
4 Jobs You Have Had in Your Life
1. Waitress at happy Joe's Pizza parlor
2. Nanny
3. Sewing store
4. Paralegal for the past 18 years to the managing partner
4 Movies You Could Watch Over & Over1.
1. Sabrina (the classic)
2. Dirty Dancing
3. Bull Durham
4. Princess Bride
4 Places You Have Lived
1. St. Louis, MO
2. Bloomington, IN
3. Aurora CO
4. Atlanta, GA
4 TV Shows You Love to Watch
1. Lost
2. Alias
3. Desperate Housewives
4. Good Eats
4 Places You Have Been on Vacation
1. England
2. Scotland
3. St. John's VI
4. Alaska
4 Websites You Visit Daily
1. www.scrapgal
2. Cooking light
3. too many blogs
4. Eonline
4 of Your Favorite Foods
1. Good Cheese
2. Artisan Bread
3. Good Wine
4. Any kind of fruit
4 Places You Would Rather Be Right
1. Asleep
2. in the mountains
3. at the beach
4. at the symphony
4 Bloggers You Are Tagging
Christi
Carrie
Nancy
Rhonda
4 Jobs You Have Had in Your Life
1. Waitress at happy Joe's Pizza parlor
2. Nanny
3. Sewing store
4. Paralegal for the past 18 years to the managing partner
4 Movies You Could Watch Over & Over1.
1. Sabrina (the classic)
2. Dirty Dancing
3. Bull Durham
4. Princess Bride
4 Places You Have Lived
1. St. Louis, MO
2. Bloomington, IN
3. Aurora CO
4. Atlanta, GA
4 TV Shows You Love to Watch
1. Lost
2. Alias
3. Desperate Housewives
4. Good Eats
4 Places You Have Been on Vacation
1. England
2. Scotland
3. St. John's VI
4. Alaska
4 Websites You Visit Daily
1. www.scrapgal
2. Cooking light
3. too many blogs
4. Eonline
4 of Your Favorite Foods
1. Good Cheese
2. Artisan Bread
3. Good Wine
4. Any kind of fruit
4 Places You Would Rather Be Right
1. Asleep
2. in the mountains
3. at the beach
4. at the symphony
4 Bloggers You Are Tagging
Christi
Carrie
Nancy
Rhonda
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
It's Ladies Night
"and the feelings right...oh yes it's ladies night...oh what a night!" (name that artist...heh!)
So off I go to our innaugral Ladies Night, which revolves around chick flicks, libations and soul baring....did I mention libations will be involved? (note to self...don't forget the camera)
I am in charge of the movies tonight so I decided to go for the classics...Audrey Hepburn baby!
My viewing public gets to pick from:
Breakfast at Tiffanys (the odds on winner)
Sabrina(my personal favorite)
Roman Holiday
Sooooo....if you were a Audrey Hepburn movie...what would you be??? (thinking to self. SELF.....how do I submit that stellar idea to the blog site where Dina keeps tagging us with great quizzes?)
I'll dish more tomorrow!
So off I go to our innaugral Ladies Night, which revolves around chick flicks, libations and soul baring....did I mention libations will be involved? (note to self...don't forget the camera)
I am in charge of the movies tonight so I decided to go for the classics...Audrey Hepburn baby!
My viewing public gets to pick from:
Breakfast at Tiffanys (the odds on winner)
Sabrina(my personal favorite)
Roman Holiday
Sooooo....if you were a Audrey Hepburn movie...what would you be??? (thinking to self. SELF.....how do I submit that stellar idea to the blog site where Dina keeps tagging us with great quizzes?)
I'll dish more tomorrow!
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
The Problem with................
Smokers
The thing is... I have some sympathy for the pariahs that smokers have become, being a former one myself.
But, that was over 20 years ago when I was young and impressionable and trying not to gain weight in college.
DUH...then I discovered runnning to replace skating and all was good.
But Carrie's post about offensive smells on her blog (see link to the left) brought back memories of Christmas office parties gone by.
I have been around so long that I am in the hallowed core of employees who remember when those parties revolved around unlimited drinks, an after party and an after-after party and the HIGHLIGHT of the party...........................
SKITS!
We actually had a skit once (I was not the mastermind) that parodied all non smokers bolting from the elevator when the smokers got on the elevator after a "break"
That added with a seque of the "heavy perfume users" getting on the elevator, dousing themselves with the contents of their atomizers as they rode up and down was pure comic genius.
Needless to say everyone thought it was hysterical, well except for the smokers. The heavy perfume users never got the joke cause they were clueless.
Come to think of it that was the end of skits as we knew them. Now it's a talent show and if you get booed it's your own damn fault for getting up on stage in the first place.
But the thing is....I miss those skits...funny stuff!
The thing is... I have some sympathy for the pariahs that smokers have become, being a former one myself.
But, that was over 20 years ago when I was young and impressionable and trying not to gain weight in college.
DUH...then I discovered runnning to replace skating and all was good.
But Carrie's post about offensive smells on her blog (see link to the left) brought back memories of Christmas office parties gone by.
I have been around so long that I am in the hallowed core of employees who remember when those parties revolved around unlimited drinks, an after party and an after-after party and the HIGHLIGHT of the party...........................
SKITS!
We actually had a skit once (I was not the mastermind) that parodied all non smokers bolting from the elevator when the smokers got on the elevator after a "break"
That added with a seque of the "heavy perfume users" getting on the elevator, dousing themselves with the contents of their atomizers as they rode up and down was pure comic genius.
Needless to say everyone thought it was hysterical, well except for the smokers. The heavy perfume users never got the joke cause they were clueless.
Come to think of it that was the end of skits as we knew them. Now it's a talent show and if you get booed it's your own damn fault for getting up on stage in the first place.
But the thing is....I miss those skits...funny stuff!
Why I love TWOP
TWOP you say?
What perchance is TWOP? Well it's right over there....no THERE....over on the left!! See my FAB Sites category....have you ever clicked on it???
If the answer is no............. WAIT!!!
It's obviously an acronym....but for what dear bloggers, for what???
Not ............Two Women on Percocet
Not ................Two Wines of Paris
No...no...for the unitiated, let me enlighten you.
TWOP is short for Television WithOut Pity and let me just say, my TV viewing life became complete the day I was introduced to this website.
Cause even if the episode of my favorite TV show was a total and utter train wreck that week, the insanely intelligent and snarky humor from the recaps and the commentary in the forums was more than fair consolation.
And if my episode was great.....ahhhhh then I could bask in the comical consensus of my peers over a job well done.
Try it...you'll LIKE it!
And besides, I discovery little gems like this http://www.tvgasm.com/archives/food_network/001570.php in the forums.
I (((HEART))) TWOP!!!
What perchance is TWOP? Well it's right over there....no THERE....over on the left!! See my FAB Sites category....have you ever clicked on it???
If the answer is no............. WAIT!!!
It's obviously an acronym....but for what dear bloggers, for what???
Not ............Two Women on Percocet
Not ................Two Wines of Paris
No...no...for the unitiated, let me enlighten you.
TWOP is short for Television WithOut Pity and let me just say, my TV viewing life became complete the day I was introduced to this website.
Cause even if the episode of my favorite TV show was a total and utter train wreck that week, the insanely intelligent and snarky humor from the recaps and the commentary in the forums was more than fair consolation.
And if my episode was great.....ahhhhh then I could bask in the comical consensus of my peers over a job well done.
Try it...you'll LIKE it!
And besides, I discovery little gems like this http://www.tvgasm.com/archives/food_network/001570.php in the forums.
I (((HEART))) TWOP!!!
Sunday, January 08, 2006
They break your heart
The real, REAL reason I didn't want a dog...truth?
Cause I knew they could break my heart.
My heart was broken for one VERY long hour today when Jake pulled a houdini and managed to get out of our fenced backyard with all of the gates closed and locked and slipped his collar.
Fortunately a neighbor up the street found him and had him in her backyard and another friend recognized him and told my dh when she saw him out patrolling the streets for the little escape artist.
I was CONVINCED that someone had stolen him and that we'd never see him again and it would absolutely break my kids hearts.
I can't believe I could love a dog that much....little stinker.
Cause I knew they could break my heart.
My heart was broken for one VERY long hour today when Jake pulled a houdini and managed to get out of our fenced backyard with all of the gates closed and locked and slipped his collar.
Fortunately a neighbor up the street found him and had him in her backyard and another friend recognized him and told my dh when she saw him out patrolling the streets for the little escape artist.
I was CONVINCED that someone had stolen him and that we'd never see him again and it would absolutely break my kids hearts.
I can't believe I could love a dog that much....little stinker.
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Pucker up baby!
I blame Dina for getting me addicted to these wacky quizzes.
So what kind of kisser ARE you?
Apparently I am an expert...ROFL...does that mean I'm a double black diamond? And EWWWW...the phot below is NOT hot!
take the quiz here
http://www.blogthings.com/whatkindofkisserareyouquiz/
So what kind of kisser ARE you?
Apparently I am an expert...ROFL...does that mean I'm a double black diamond? And EWWWW...the phot below is NOT hot!
| You're an Expert Kisser |
 |
What Kind of Kisser Are You?
take the quiz here
http://www.blogthings.com/whatkindofkisserareyouquiz/
My Top FIVE Reasons why I love Chicos!
I spent a BOATLOAD of moolah at Chico's over the holidays to celebrate my recent weight loss.
Now some might nag at me for buing new clothes when I'm NOT done losing weight, but to those critics I only have this to say in my defense..........
PFLLBHTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT!
Yes somedays I am this many (holding up three fingers)
I'm sure I could be more articulate but I'm too tired from staying up all night chatting with various girlies in my life.
So to the point...why do I love Chico's???
ONE
Their sizes are VERY much geared to BOOST female ego. I mean let's face it, anyplace where sizes start at ZERO and max at THREE has to be a good thing...RIGHT??!!
Right...so I'm a TWO now...woot woot...ROFL!
TWO (not size two, but reason two)
Coupons!!! Dang skippy baby. If you enroll in the passport Club, which costs you NO money, you get all kinds of coupons throughout the year to take the sting out of the RIDICULOUSLY high prices.
(unlike the B & N freguent buyer club which does cost money...uhhhmmm...hello? Why am I PAYING for an extra 10% off...DUH!)
Combine that with ONLY buying sale items and momma's done gone and got herself a new outfit!
THREE
The mirrors!!!
The mirrors make you look FABULOUS! I don't know how they do it. It's got to be some kind of funhouse curve they put into those things, but all I know is I likey what I see!
FOUR
All the stuff is so DANG funky and fun and cool and classic...all at the same time. The accessories are TDF! And it all makes me look skinny and cute and that makes me HAPPY!
And we all know if Momma's happy....EVERYONE is happy!
FIVE
The sales staff PAMPERS me!!!
Seriously, I go in with an armload of stuff and start tossing the rejects out and they run and get me different sizes, different styles...those gals know how to work it...for sure!
It's like shopping with your best girlfriends when you don't have your best girlfriends with you. And let me tell you..they AREN'T afraid to tell you what works on you and what MOST definitely does NOT!
Honesty in sales.....LOVE the concept!
So there you have it my top FIVE reasons for loving Chico's.
I do believe a new catalog (with my name on it!) and MORE coupons will be arriving any day now.
SQUEE!
Now some might nag at me for buing new clothes when I'm NOT done losing weight, but to those critics I only have this to say in my defense..........
PFLLBHTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT!
Yes somedays I am this many (holding up three fingers)
I'm sure I could be more articulate but I'm too tired from staying up all night chatting with various girlies in my life.
So to the point...why do I love Chico's???
ONE
Their sizes are VERY much geared to BOOST female ego. I mean let's face it, anyplace where sizes start at ZERO and max at THREE has to be a good thing...RIGHT??!!
Right...so I'm a TWO now...woot woot...ROFL!
TWO (not size two, but reason two)
Coupons!!! Dang skippy baby. If you enroll in the passport Club, which costs you NO money, you get all kinds of coupons throughout the year to take the sting out of the RIDICULOUSLY high prices.
(unlike the B & N freguent buyer club which does cost money...uhhhmmm...hello? Why am I PAYING for an extra 10% off...DUH!)
Combine that with ONLY buying sale items and momma's done gone and got herself a new outfit!
THREE
The mirrors!!!
The mirrors make you look FABULOUS! I don't know how they do it. It's got to be some kind of funhouse curve they put into those things, but all I know is I likey what I see!
FOUR
All the stuff is so DANG funky and fun and cool and classic...all at the same time. The accessories are TDF! And it all makes me look skinny and cute and that makes me HAPPY!
And we all know if Momma's happy....EVERYONE is happy!
FIVE
The sales staff PAMPERS me!!!
Seriously, I go in with an armload of stuff and start tossing the rejects out and they run and get me different sizes, different styles...those gals know how to work it...for sure!
It's like shopping with your best girlfriends when you don't have your best girlfriends with you. And let me tell you..they AREN'T afraid to tell you what works on you and what MOST definitely does NOT!
Honesty in sales.....LOVE the concept!
So there you have it my top FIVE reasons for loving Chico's.
I do believe a new catalog (with my name on it!) and MORE coupons will be arriving any day now.
SQUEE!
Friday, January 06, 2006
time for more fun
| Your Eyes Should Be Brown |
 What's hidden behind your eyes: A tender heart |
What Color Should Your Eyes Be?
And they would be correct!
Thursday, January 05, 2006
I demand a recount!
Darn you Dina....another quiz!
And I am so NOT snobby...see Peanuts quiz from a few days ago...but there's definitely a lot of French in my Heinz 57 DNA!
And I am so NOT snobby...see Peanuts quiz from a few days ago...but there's definitely a lot of French in my Heinz 57 DNA!
| You Are French Food |
 |
What Kind of Food Are You?
The adventures of Me in dial up land
Can I first state for the record, officially and unequivocably that dial up sucks?
Okay. Good.
Glad I got that off my chest cause blogging has been near impossible since my computer crashed and burned on 12/22.
Supposedly my baby is coming home from her tech TLC today all buffed and waxed and ready to rumble. (I'm actually blogging here at work before the start of my work day) Apparently the virus came in through Yahoo messenger and was trying to attack my communications link at work and when it couldn't get in had a "temper tantrum" and hence the pop ups of disgusting nature.
Seriously, hackers need to get a life. Such a waste of potential.
Well off to work I click.
And for all of you who may be in dial up land by choice....my heartfelt sympathies.
Okay. Good.
Glad I got that off my chest cause blogging has been near impossible since my computer crashed and burned on 12/22.
Supposedly my baby is coming home from her tech TLC today all buffed and waxed and ready to rumble. (I'm actually blogging here at work before the start of my work day) Apparently the virus came in through Yahoo messenger and was trying to attack my communications link at work and when it couldn't get in had a "temper tantrum" and hence the pop ups of disgusting nature.
Seriously, hackers need to get a life. Such a waste of potential.
Well off to work I click.
And for all of you who may be in dial up land by choice....my heartfelt sympathies.
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