I'm tired. Kind of sick. Have had a headache for most of the day. I hope you're doing TONS better than I am! Here's wishing you a "brownie, topped with mint chip ice cream, topped with Magic Shell fudge" kind of day!
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Mismatched
We got an elliptical trainer a few weeks ago. I don't know if you remember, but I tried to take up running awhile back. It didn't work so well. My knees got to the point where it hurt to even get out of bed. And that's a bad thing. Right?? Anyway, the solution: exercise equipment with low joint impact and so far (knock on wood) Hubby and I have been very faithful to use it at least 5 days a week. Sometimes 6. It is great to see how many calories we are burning. How far we can push ourselves. How much time we can spend torturing our bodies. But, we are also seeing something else. We are EXTREMELY different in our approach to our time on the darn thing. I like to turn the music up and pound it out to the beat. I also enjoy talking while I'm working out. Takes my mind of the intense pain and makes the time go by a little faster. Hubby, on the other hand, doesn't like music. He likes to set his own rhythm and pace. He WILL NOT TALK while he is working out. It's taken me a little while to figure this out. I used to come in here and chat, thinking I was being OH SO HELPFUL and he would just ignore me. Horribly offended, I would leave in a huff. He, on the other hand, leaves me completely alone while I'm working out. Which makes the time drag on. I guess we aren't two peas in a pod on this one... more like potatoes and strawberries. I'll let you decide which one of us is the sweet one and which one is a little starchy. ;)
We got an elliptical trainer a few weeks ago. I don't know if you remember, but I tried to take up running awhile back. It didn't work so well. My knees got to the point where it hurt to even get out of bed. And that's a bad thing. Right?? Anyway, the solution: exercise equipment with low joint impact and so far (knock on wood) Hubby and I have been very faithful to use it at least 5 days a week. Sometimes 6. It is great to see how many calories we are burning. How far we can push ourselves. How much time we can spend torturing our bodies. But, we are also seeing something else. We are EXTREMELY different in our approach to our time on the darn thing. I like to turn the music up and pound it out to the beat. I also enjoy talking while I'm working out. Takes my mind of the intense pain and makes the time go by a little faster. Hubby, on the other hand, doesn't like music. He likes to set his own rhythm and pace. He WILL NOT TALK while he is working out. It's taken me a little while to figure this out. I used to come in here and chat, thinking I was being OH SO HELPFUL and he would just ignore me. Horribly offended, I would leave in a huff. He, on the other hand, leaves me completely alone while I'm working out. Which makes the time drag on. I guess we aren't two peas in a pod on this one... more like potatoes and strawberries. I'll let you decide which one of us is the sweet one and which one is a little starchy. ;)
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
WAHOO!!
Do ya love it? Isn't it cool??? Heather at Goofy Girl Designs made this awesome template for my blog! And she was soooo super patient with me! She had made some really great headers and I completely changed my mind... asked her to do a double back flip with a half pike tuck and she did it! :D Scored a perfect 10 in my book! I am very excited and super duper pleased with the new look! So, if you're looking for some new designs for an EXTREMELY reasonable price, check out her site!
Do ya love it? Isn't it cool??? Heather at Goofy Girl Designs made this awesome template for my blog! And she was soooo super patient with me! She had made some really great headers and I completely changed my mind... asked her to do a double back flip with a half pike tuck and she did it! :D Scored a perfect 10 in my book! I am very excited and super duper pleased with the new look! So, if you're looking for some new designs for an EXTREMELY reasonable price, check out her site!
OUCH!!
Wanna see what I stepped on the other day??
No, not the penny! The gigantic thorn! We have these beautiful bushes in our back yard with these great pink flowers ....(the ones behind Baby Girl) and they have these MASSIVE thorns!
I won't repeat the words that came out of my mouth as that thing sunk into my big toe. It wouldn't be appropriate.
Wanna see what I stepped on the other day??
No, not the penny! The gigantic thorn! We have these beautiful bushes in our back yard with these great pink flowers ....(the ones behind Baby Girl) and they have these MASSIVE thorns!
I won't repeat the words that came out of my mouth as that thing sunk into my big toe. It wouldn't be appropriate.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Red Light, Green Light
So, tonight we had our family night. We sang a song, and I mean "we" as in Hubby and I, the kids just weren't into it tonight. We had a lesson, which was pretty much completely ignored by everyone. We had treats, which were enjoyed by all. And there was the game. Hubby suggested that we play "Red Light, Green Light". Do you remember this game? One person stands at one end of the room and is the "light". Everyone else stands at the other end of the room. When the "light" is facing you, it's red, you can't move. When the "light" has it's back to you, then it's green and you try to get close enough to touch the person who is the "light". Whoever touches that person first, gets to be the next light. We got Little Bug in on the action. I figured he would let us drag him around for a little while and then he'd get bored and wander off. But no! I was so amazed! Hubby went through all the motions of each position with him a few times. They got to be the "light" and Bug just LOVED it! He giggled and squealed. So, we decided to try and let him do it on his own. It was FANTASTIC! He looked at us and said "red light" and then turned around, giggled and yelled "GREEN LIGHT" and would laugh and laugh! Whenever one of us got close enough to touch him, we would give him a little tickle - one of his favorite things. Even after we were done, he would run to the spot where we had been playing and say "Red light, green light, red light, green light..." and he would laugh and spin around! I live for moments like these :)
So, tonight we had our family night. We sang a song, and I mean "we" as in Hubby and I, the kids just weren't into it tonight. We had a lesson, which was pretty much completely ignored by everyone. We had treats, which were enjoyed by all. And there was the game. Hubby suggested that we play "Red Light, Green Light". Do you remember this game? One person stands at one end of the room and is the "light". Everyone else stands at the other end of the room. When the "light" is facing you, it's red, you can't move. When the "light" has it's back to you, then it's green and you try to get close enough to touch the person who is the "light". Whoever touches that person first, gets to be the next light. We got Little Bug in on the action. I figured he would let us drag him around for a little while and then he'd get bored and wander off. But no! I was so amazed! Hubby went through all the motions of each position with him a few times. They got to be the "light" and Bug just LOVED it! He giggled and squealed. So, we decided to try and let him do it on his own. It was FANTASTIC! He looked at us and said "red light" and then turned around, giggled and yelled "GREEN LIGHT" and would laugh and laugh! Whenever one of us got close enough to touch him, we would give him a little tickle - one of his favorite things. Even after we were done, he would run to the spot where we had been playing and say "Red light, green light, red light, green light..." and he would laugh and spin around! I live for moments like these :)
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Feeling Crafty
Do you ever get the urge to create something? I do. But usually it doesn't turn out really well. I love crafts, I'm just not always very good at them. I admit, there are some things that I can do quite well. I'm fairly good at piecing quilts and I feel like I have a knack for pulling colors together. But, I think I may have found another thing that I just might be good at - making jewelry. I have done a little bit in the past with elastic and just stringing on the beads at random. It always turned out nice, but I wanted to try something different. So, I went to Michael's craft store and got a few beads. That night, after all the helpful little fingers were in bed, I went to work. I tried a few different things, but then I felt like I really got it right with this:
It's nothing fancy. It won't win awards or sell for a million bucks. But I like it. I like the way it turned out. I love the colors together.
So, tell me, what creative thing(s) do you like to do?
Do you ever get the urge to create something? I do. But usually it doesn't turn out really well. I love crafts, I'm just not always very good at them. I admit, there are some things that I can do quite well. I'm fairly good at piecing quilts and I feel like I have a knack for pulling colors together. But, I think I may have found another thing that I just might be good at - making jewelry. I have done a little bit in the past with elastic and just stringing on the beads at random. It always turned out nice, but I wanted to try something different. So, I went to Michael's craft store and got a few beads. That night, after all the helpful little fingers were in bed, I went to work. I tried a few different things, but then I felt like I really got it right with this:
It's nothing fancy. It won't win awards or sell for a million bucks. But I like it. I like the way it turned out. I love the colors together. So, tell me, what creative thing(s) do you like to do?
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Rats
We had a meeting with the school to discuss Little Bug's transition from Kindergarten to 1st grade. That is what I assumed the meeting was about. Well, you know what they say about assuming... sigh. I got there and they started talking about the wonderful changes that they have made to the Special Day Kindergarten classes. I'm thinking "Okay... whatever. Can we talk about Bug's class now??" And they go on and on about all the great new things they are going to be doing. And really, it does sound great. But, I'm confused. So, I politely stop the endless chatter about the wonders of the new program and I ask if they are planning on putting him in Kindergarten again. "Yes" is the response. Then they talk about how the class he was in this year didn't follow the normal kindergarten curriculum. But, that it had been the most appropriate class for him at the time. And I admit, he has done VERY well in this class. But, I had been told that it was a Kindergarten class. It wasn't. It was more of an early intervention class. My heart sank. I try to explain that he is already older than all of the kids in his class NOW. He will be 7 in October and these kids will be so much younger. They assure me that there are a couple of other kids that will be 7 this next school year too. Then, they inform me that they have decided to put the children with more "severe problems in the morning classes". Then they talked about the reasons they feel that Little Bug should be in the morning class. I forced myself not to cry. You see, these are wonderful people who really do love my son and want what is best for him, as do I. I am fully aware of his struggles, but it is always hard to have others point them out so blatantly. ANYWAY, we will make the best of it. It really does sound like a great program. And it will probably be to his advantage to be older. It will be a good thing. Sigh... dang it.....
We had a meeting with the school to discuss Little Bug's transition from Kindergarten to 1st grade. That is what I assumed the meeting was about. Well, you know what they say about assuming... sigh. I got there and they started talking about the wonderful changes that they have made to the Special Day Kindergarten classes. I'm thinking "Okay... whatever. Can we talk about Bug's class now??" And they go on and on about all the great new things they are going to be doing. And really, it does sound great. But, I'm confused. So, I politely stop the endless chatter about the wonders of the new program and I ask if they are planning on putting him in Kindergarten again. "Yes" is the response. Then they talk about how the class he was in this year didn't follow the normal kindergarten curriculum. But, that it had been the most appropriate class for him at the time. And I admit, he has done VERY well in this class. But, I had been told that it was a Kindergarten class. It wasn't. It was more of an early intervention class. My heart sank. I try to explain that he is already older than all of the kids in his class NOW. He will be 7 in October and these kids will be so much younger. They assure me that there are a couple of other kids that will be 7 this next school year too. Then, they inform me that they have decided to put the children with more "severe problems in the morning classes". Then they talked about the reasons they feel that Little Bug should be in the morning class. I forced myself not to cry. You see, these are wonderful people who really do love my son and want what is best for him, as do I. I am fully aware of his struggles, but it is always hard to have others point them out so blatantly. ANYWAY, we will make the best of it. It really does sound like a great program. And it will probably be to his advantage to be older. It will be a good thing. Sigh... dang it.....
Friday, May 25, 2007
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Grapes of Wrath
Wanna see what we did last night? Too bad. I forgot to take the camera! :S Actually, hubby took a shot with his cell phone... so, this is as good as it gets....
Hubby works with a guy who said that we could come and pick a few grapes from his vineyard! It was such a fun experience for all of us! When we lived in Oregon there were places that grew grapes, but they weren't table grapes, they were wine grapes. These are all table grapes. They won't actually harvest till next week, but there were a few ready now. And they taste so GOOD!! So yummy and crisp... and it was so weird to pull them off of stems that were still GREEN! Bright, vibrant, wonderful green! Not dead, dark, old brown.
It was a really great night. It was almost more that Baby Girl could take walking through the grapes and not eating them as fast as she could. I've let her eat quite a few today... which means I'll probably pay for it tomorrow!
Wanna see what we did last night? Too bad. I forgot to take the camera! :S Actually, hubby took a shot with his cell phone... so, this is as good as it gets....
Hubby works with a guy who said that we could come and pick a few grapes from his vineyard! It was such a fun experience for all of us! When we lived in Oregon there were places that grew grapes, but they weren't table grapes, they were wine grapes. These are all table grapes. They won't actually harvest till next week, but there were a few ready now. And they taste so GOOD!! So yummy and crisp... and it was so weird to pull them off of stems that were still GREEN! Bright, vibrant, wonderful green! Not dead, dark, old brown.
It was a really great night. It was almost more that Baby Girl could take walking through the grapes and not eating them as fast as she could. I've let her eat quite a few today... which means I'll probably pay for it tomorrow!
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Zany Zions
I have a girlfriend that is getting married in St. George in a few weeks. We are going over on Saturday for all the wedding things and staying through Monday. We would like to spend a few days in Zions National Park. Does anyone have any experience with the area? What are some good hikes for two old married people who are a tad out of shape and will have two of their three kids with them (the younger two)? We want to see some fun things, but Little Bug and Baby Girl may not be on the same page. Thoughts? Ideas? Or do you know of some things to do in St. George that would entertain the kids? Or perhaps in Springdale? Red will be headed to Idaho on Sunday. My girlfriends parents still live in the same ward (church group) as my parents. So, they are going to take him to Idaho with them early Sunday morning. While he is there he will get to swim, float the river, go bowling, 4 wheeling, play an assortment of video consoles, spend time with every relative we've got, and in general have a fantastic time! He might even take swimming lessons while he is there. He will have his fun and we will have ours! So, if you have any suggestions or thoughts on Southern Utah (and we won't have TONS of time, so we need to stay in the St. George/Zions area) let me know!!
I have a girlfriend that is getting married in St. George in a few weeks. We are going over on Saturday for all the wedding things and staying through Monday. We would like to spend a few days in Zions National Park. Does anyone have any experience with the area? What are some good hikes for two old married people who are a tad out of shape and will have two of their three kids with them (the younger two)? We want to see some fun things, but Little Bug and Baby Girl may not be on the same page. Thoughts? Ideas? Or do you know of some things to do in St. George that would entertain the kids? Or perhaps in Springdale? Red will be headed to Idaho on Sunday. My girlfriends parents still live in the same ward (church group) as my parents. So, they are going to take him to Idaho with them early Sunday morning. While he is there he will get to swim, float the river, go bowling, 4 wheeling, play an assortment of video consoles, spend time with every relative we've got, and in general have a fantastic time! He might even take swimming lessons while he is there. He will have his fun and we will have ours! So, if you have any suggestions or thoughts on Southern Utah (and we won't have TONS of time, so we need to stay in the St. George/Zions area) let me know!!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Inspired
What do you do to get inspired? Is there a book you read? A place you visit? A saying you tell yourself? A movie you watch? I remind myself of this father son team - the Hoyt's. A little about them...
"Dick and Rick Hoyt are a father-and-son team from Massachusetts who together compete just about continuously in marathon races. And if they’re not in a marathon they are in a triathlon — that daunting, almost superhuman, combination of 26.2 miles of running, 112 miles of bicycling, and 2.4 miles of swimming. Together they have climbed mountains, and once trekked 3,735 miles across America.
It’s a remarkable record of exertion — all the more so when you consider that Rick can't walk or talk.
For the past twenty five years or more Dick, who is 65, has pushed and pulled his son across the country and over hundreds of finish lines. When Dick runs, Rick is in a wheelchair that Dick is pushing. When Dick cycles, Rick is in the seat-pod from his wheelchair, attached to the front of the bike. When Dick swims, Rick is in a small but heavy, firmly stabilized boat being pulled by Dick. "
That was taken from their website. You see, Rick is a quadriplegic, has cerebral palsy, and can't speak. Their story amazes me. And when I need to be inspired, I watch this video...(grab some tissue)
What do you do to get inspired? Is there a book you read? A place you visit? A saying you tell yourself? A movie you watch? I remind myself of this father son team - the Hoyt's. A little about them...
"Dick and Rick Hoyt are a father-and-son team from Massachusetts who together compete just about continuously in marathon races. And if they’re not in a marathon they are in a triathlon — that daunting, almost superhuman, combination of 26.2 miles of running, 112 miles of bicycling, and 2.4 miles of swimming. Together they have climbed mountains, and once trekked 3,735 miles across America.
It’s a remarkable record of exertion — all the more so when you consider that Rick can't walk or talk.
For the past twenty five years or more Dick, who is 65, has pushed and pulled his son across the country and over hundreds of finish lines. When Dick runs, Rick is in a wheelchair that Dick is pushing. When Dick cycles, Rick is in the seat-pod from his wheelchair, attached to the front of the bike. When Dick swims, Rick is in a small but heavy, firmly stabilized boat being pulled by Dick. "
That was taken from their website. You see, Rick is a quadriplegic, has cerebral palsy, and can't speak. Their story amazes me. And when I need to be inspired, I watch this video...(grab some tissue)
Negative Vibes
Okay, so I blogged this morning and then reread it and thought "WOW! You are one sour spirit today!" Trust me. If you had read it, it would have made your mouth pucker! That's how acetic it was! (think Warhead candies) Anyway, I'm trying this again. I have to admit, I'm stressing and struggling, but that's not how my life is in general. So, I'm not going to blog about it. (Although, if any of you have any experience with sensory issues in nonverbal kids, I'd love to chat/email). Instead, I'm going to blog about Harry Potter. That seems like a natural transition, don't you think? You see, I just finished books five and six again (yes, I read them all in January). I wanted to read the last two books one more time before the next book comes out. I wanted to take my time. Look at details. Try to find clues. Absorb as much information as possible. Yeah right. I started on Friday and was done with #5 by Sunday and I finished book #6 yesterday. Why? Why do I do this? I have come up with two possible conclusions to why I can't put these books down:
1 - I'm crazy. This is a really good possibility. Everyone knows I'm just a tad mental. I just get a tad obsessed about it.
2 - The books are just darn good! J.K. Rowling is a fabulous author. I love books that make you fall in love with the characters. You want what is best for them. You hope they are okay (in a slightly deranged sort of way... because, you know, they are fictional).
Conclusion: it's a combination of 1 and 2... which makes 12. So, I guess what you'd have to say is that I'm crazy about these books! I can't wait for the last one to come out! In fact, I'm so excited, that if you'll take a quick look in the sidebar you'll see a Harry Potter countdown. Insane? Bonkers? Wacky? Nuts? Yep. Crazy about Harry Potter.
Okay, so I blogged this morning and then reread it and thought "WOW! You are one sour spirit today!" Trust me. If you had read it, it would have made your mouth pucker! That's how acetic it was! (think Warhead candies) Anyway, I'm trying this again. I have to admit, I'm stressing and struggling, but that's not how my life is in general. So, I'm not going to blog about it. (Although, if any of you have any experience with sensory issues in nonverbal kids, I'd love to chat/email). Instead, I'm going to blog about Harry Potter. That seems like a natural transition, don't you think? You see, I just finished books five and six again (yes, I read them all in January). I wanted to read the last two books one more time before the next book comes out. I wanted to take my time. Look at details. Try to find clues. Absorb as much information as possible. Yeah right. I started on Friday and was done with #5 by Sunday and I finished book #6 yesterday. Why? Why do I do this? I have come up with two possible conclusions to why I can't put these books down:
1 - I'm crazy. This is a really good possibility. Everyone knows I'm just a tad mental. I just get a tad obsessed about it.
2 - The books are just darn good! J.K. Rowling is a fabulous author. I love books that make you fall in love with the characters. You want what is best for them. You hope they are okay (in a slightly deranged sort of way... because, you know, they are fictional).
Conclusion: it's a combination of 1 and 2... which makes 12. So, I guess what you'd have to say is that I'm crazy about these books! I can't wait for the last one to come out! In fact, I'm so excited, that if you'll take a quick look in the sidebar you'll see a Harry Potter countdown. Insane? Bonkers? Wacky? Nuts? Yep. Crazy about Harry Potter.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Needs vs. Wants
This is what I WANT to do today....
This is what I NEED to do today...
This is what I WANT to do today....
Unfortunately for me, the school has a "No Nakedness" policy. So, needs trump the wants. I will be doing laundry. :S
So, are you getting to do what you want to do today? Or are your needs (or, more likely, your family's needs) getting in the way of your fun?
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Simple Supplication
I love to hear my kids learn to pray. There is something sweet and sincere about their words as they innocently (or not so innocently) ask that "Mom and Dad will give us ice cream" or "Everyone everywhere will sleep good tonight". My favorite prayer to hear right now is Baby Girl blessing the food because it usually goes something like this:
Hebbenly Fadder
Fank you ::chomp chomp chomp:: for dis day ::swallow...sound of utensil getting more food::
Fank you ::gulp drink swallow:: for we can be happy ::clanking of cup and dishes followed by silence and then me whispering -keep going-::
OH YEAH (muffled because her mouth is full of food)
Fank you ::crunch crunch nibble nibble:: for dis fooooood...mmm... yummy...
And on and on it goes. Can there be a more thankful prayer? She is showing her gratitude for her food in the most sincere way. At least, that's what I'm going to tell myself till I can convince her to wait till after the prayer to eat :)
I love to hear my kids learn to pray. There is something sweet and sincere about their words as they innocently (or not so innocently) ask that "Mom and Dad will give us ice cream" or "Everyone everywhere will sleep good tonight". My favorite prayer to hear right now is Baby Girl blessing the food because it usually goes something like this:
Hebbenly Fadder
Fank you ::chomp chomp chomp:: for dis day ::swallow...sound of utensil getting more food::
Fank you ::gulp drink swallow:: for we can be happy ::clanking of cup and dishes followed by silence and then me whispering -keep going-::
OH YEAH (muffled because her mouth is full of food)
Fank you ::crunch crunch nibble nibble:: for dis fooooood...mmm... yummy...
And on and on it goes. Can there be a more thankful prayer? She is showing her gratitude for her food in the most sincere way. At least, that's what I'm going to tell myself till I can convince her to wait till after the prayer to eat :)
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Friday
Everyone loves Friday right? Last work day.... start of the weekend... there's something just happy about Fridays. For me, there is an extra happiness. One of the chores that I really dread is making lunches every day for the kids for school. I know. It's the dumbest thing in the world to hate to do, but for some reason, I struggle with it. EXCEPT on Friday. Cause, ya see, every Friday the schools serve pizza which is something that both of my school age kiddos will eat. Friday is my reprieve. I find peace and a few extra minutes of sleep because I don't have to make lunches. Ahhh...
Oh, and for all you Office fans... what did you think about the show? I'm saying YEAH FOR JIM AND PAM! And do you think he really ditched Karen in New York? Just totally forgot about her??? So, to bid farewell to the Office till next season... I leave you with this: one of my favorite clips from this last season. Enjoy!
Everyone loves Friday right? Last work day.... start of the weekend... there's something just happy about Fridays. For me, there is an extra happiness. One of the chores that I really dread is making lunches every day for the kids for school. I know. It's the dumbest thing in the world to hate to do, but for some reason, I struggle with it. EXCEPT on Friday. Cause, ya see, every Friday the schools serve pizza which is something that both of my school age kiddos will eat. Friday is my reprieve. I find peace and a few extra minutes of sleep because I don't have to make lunches. Ahhh...
Oh, and for all you Office fans... what did you think about the show? I'm saying YEAH FOR JIM AND PAM! And do you think he really ditched Karen in New York? Just totally forgot about her??? So, to bid farewell to the Office till next season... I leave you with this: one of my favorite clips from this last season. Enjoy!
I wrote a little about this the other day. There is a conference this summer in Chicago and I want to go! :) It would be so fun to meet other bloggers and heaven knows I have TONS to learn still. Unfortunately, it's a little expensive. But, then I learned that the lovely ladies over at Mommy Blogger are helping out by having a drawing for the conference tickets. The contest is open to ANYONE! So, I'm entering! If you think you'd like to go and a few free tickets might help out, go enter! It does sound like A LOT of fun!
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Southern California
I'm just wondering, how many of you are in Southern California? It seems like there are several. I know there was a group of bloggers that got together in Seattle not too long ago. And there is the BlogHer conference this summer in Chicago. But are there enough bloggers to try and pull something together for something in San Diego or some other town? I live about 2 hours from San Diego and 2 hours from L.A. Hour and a half from Temecula (I know, it's not a huge city, but one of my favorite restaurants is there...) Anyway, if you are a Southern California blogger, or you know some Southern California bloggers, or, if you're going to be in Southern Cali for a visit, let's see if we can find a way to meet! I would love to get to know y'all! If you know a great place to grab some grub, let me know! Let's see if we can get together for some blogger talk and some good eatin!
I'm just wondering, how many of you are in Southern California? It seems like there are several. I know there was a group of bloggers that got together in Seattle not too long ago. And there is the BlogHer conference this summer in Chicago. But are there enough bloggers to try and pull something together for something in San Diego or some other town? I live about 2 hours from San Diego and 2 hours from L.A. Hour and a half from Temecula (I know, it's not a huge city, but one of my favorite restaurants is there...) Anyway, if you are a Southern California blogger, or you know some Southern California bloggers, or, if you're going to be in Southern Cali for a visit, let's see if we can find a way to meet! I would love to get to know y'all! If you know a great place to grab some grub, let me know! Let's see if we can get together for some blogger talk and some good eatin!
Mommy Sympathy Hits All Time Low
I'm so done with these kidlets and their splendiferous tantrums. I have never had so much screaming, crying, and throwing of the body in one day. Baby Girl really has grand technique in this area. First, she tries to make you feel guilty. "I can't go to time out- I'm hungry". And she says it in such a way that you really feel that she just might starve if you don't get her some nutrition. right. now! Then she refuses to go to time out. When I persist, she cries. But not the all out wailing (which is what she is doing right now) no, this is another guilt tactic. She looks pitiful and sobs like her heart will break. After a second she starts to yell at me. "Mommy! MOMMY!! M-O-M!!!" and then the flailing of the body, the uncontrollable screaming and the wishing that I was far far away while she goes berserk. Now, the rule in our house is that you can't get out of time out till you've calmed down. If I let her get down before she's done screeching, then she just comes and wails at my feet instead of in her room. This is something I truly cannot handle. My brain just shuts down. And she's not my only tantrumer today. Little Bug took the last few bites of my Mothers Day brownie, crumbled it all over the floor, and then squished it into the carpet. When I sent him to his room he screamed and yelled and made quite a ruckus. Then Red wanted to play PlayStation. I told him to wait and he stomped off muttering that he NEVER gets to do what HE wants to do! EVER! I think I'll throw a tantrum. Like this lady:
Do you think it would work?
I'm so done with these kidlets and their splendiferous tantrums. I have never had so much screaming, crying, and throwing of the body in one day. Baby Girl really has grand technique in this area. First, she tries to make you feel guilty. "I can't go to time out- I'm hungry". And she says it in such a way that you really feel that she just might starve if you don't get her some nutrition. right. now! Then she refuses to go to time out. When I persist, she cries. But not the all out wailing (which is what she is doing right now) no, this is another guilt tactic. She looks pitiful and sobs like her heart will break. After a second she starts to yell at me. "Mommy! MOMMY!! M-O-M!!!" and then the flailing of the body, the uncontrollable screaming and the wishing that I was far far away while she goes berserk. Now, the rule in our house is that you can't get out of time out till you've calmed down. If I let her get down before she's done screeching, then she just comes and wails at my feet instead of in her room. This is something I truly cannot handle. My brain just shuts down. And she's not my only tantrumer today. Little Bug took the last few bites of my Mothers Day brownie, crumbled it all over the floor, and then squished it into the carpet. When I sent him to his room he screamed and yelled and made quite a ruckus. Then Red wanted to play PlayStation. I told him to wait and he stomped off muttering that he NEVER gets to do what HE wants to do! EVER! I think I'll throw a tantrum. Like this lady:
Do you think it would work?
Monday, May 14, 2007
Spousal Schnozes
My Mom is convinced that people who are happily married have the same kind of nose. Maybe not the same size, but usually very similar shapes. I have always kind of chuckled at this and thought "Okay... whatever" until yesterday. I was reading an article on AOL about the Presidential candidates and whether their spouses would be a benefit or a hindrance to their campaign. Then they had a little quiz with four lesser known candidates and could you match them to their spouse. I had no idea who 3 out of the four candidates were and absolutely no clue who their wives were. So, I put Mom's theory to the test. I matched noses. And guess what? I got ALL OF THEM RIGHT! So, take a look... do you and your spouse have similar noses? If so, then congratulations. You are guaranteed marital bliss. If your noses are not so similar, you may need to find someone to do a little rhynoplasty! Want to try the quiz yourself using the nose theory? Here's the link: Noses
My Mom is convinced that people who are happily married have the same kind of nose. Maybe not the same size, but usually very similar shapes. I have always kind of chuckled at this and thought "Okay... whatever" until yesterday. I was reading an article on AOL about the Presidential candidates and whether their spouses would be a benefit or a hindrance to their campaign. Then they had a little quiz with four lesser known candidates and could you match them to their spouse. I had no idea who 3 out of the four candidates were and absolutely no clue who their wives were. So, I put Mom's theory to the test. I matched noses. And guess what? I got ALL OF THEM RIGHT! So, take a look... do you and your spouse have similar noses? If so, then congratulations. You are guaranteed marital bliss. If your noses are not so similar, you may need to find someone to do a little rhynoplasty! Want to try the quiz yourself using the nose theory? Here's the link: Noses
Wynne over at Muskadillo Dreaming was kind enough to send me some interview questions! :) I had fun answering them - thanks!!
If anyone wants me to interview them, just leave your email in the comments section and I'll send you a few questions in the next few days! :)
1. What is your middle name?
Jo - which led to a lot of nicknames in high school and college... Missy Jo, Joey, M.J. and Moose - okay, so the last one doesn't have anything to do with my middle name, but it was one of my nicknames :)
2. What is the worst purchase you ever made?
All time worst... there was this gel that you could order off the T.V. and I can't think of the name... anyway, it was kind of like a wax stuff. You spread it on your legs, put the fabric on and then it was supposed to RIP the hair off. It actually ripped some of my SKIN off, but no hair! After I got the bleeding stopped (yes, I really bled) I sent the stuff back... minus shipping and handling, of course :S
3. Ten Nerf-bat-wielding monkeys surround you, accusing you of something horrid in Monkese (at least, you assume so, because you don't speak Monkese--maybe they're just wishing you Happy Birthday?). What do you do?
First, I only have 3 Nerf-bat wielding monkeys at my house. Although, it sometimes feels like 10. Maybe the neighbor monkeys are over? Well, first, I would threaten them, using Pig Latin - it's as close as I can get to Monkese "Oday ouyay eelfay uckylay unkspay?? Ogay aheadway, akemay ymay ayday!" Then, if they refuse to back down, I'll use a form Blitzkrieg (lightening war). It is the only real way to defend oneself against Nerf-bat wielding monkeys. Unfortunately, this isn't very common knowledge, so, spread the word people! You gotta strike where it hurts the most - usually in the form of "No PlayStation/videos/favorite toy for a week"... the monkeys usually back down after that. If they throw down the gauntlet again, well, then it's time for the Super Soaker 10 Billion. There's not a Nerf bat in the world that can withstand the crushing water from a SS10B. After a good thrashing, they usually scatter, tails between their legs. As for the neighbor monkeys, I send them home and let their parents figure out how to deal with them!
4. *college flashback* What's your major?
When I was actually in college it was Natural Science. If I could go back now, well, it would probably be more along the lines of interior design.
5. What is your biggest blessing?
Wow - hmm... I'm gonna have to say my Hubby. He is so supportive and understanding in all of my stupid mistakes. Let's take Saturday for example... we were supposed to head to Sea World (we have season passes) and we got to a town called Temecula, which is over half way there, when I realized that I had left the passes on the computer desk. IDIOT! I'm bawling my eyes out, Red is bawling his eyes out, Little Bug is starting to get upset (he doesn't like it when others cry) and Baby Girl is laughing. Such a sweetie. Anyway, Hubby grabs my hand, smiles, tells me it's okay. Reassures me over and over that I am not the imbecile I think I am. Then, instead of turning around and heading home, he takes me to my favorite restaurant in the world! Then he lets me go shopping at JoAnn Fabric and then we got a few groceries at WinCo. Never once did he get upset or mad. Just smiled, hugged me, held my hand and let me know that it was okay. If that isn't a blessing, I don't know what is!!
If anyone wants me to interview them, just leave your email in the comments section and I'll send you a few questions in the next few days! :)
1. What is your middle name?
Jo - which led to a lot of nicknames in high school and college... Missy Jo, Joey, M.J. and Moose - okay, so the last one doesn't have anything to do with my middle name, but it was one of my nicknames :)
2. What is the worst purchase you ever made?
All time worst... there was this gel that you could order off the T.V. and I can't think of the name... anyway, it was kind of like a wax stuff. You spread it on your legs, put the fabric on and then it was supposed to RIP the hair off. It actually ripped some of my SKIN off, but no hair! After I got the bleeding stopped (yes, I really bled) I sent the stuff back... minus shipping and handling, of course :S
3. Ten Nerf-bat-wielding monkeys surround you, accusing you of something horrid in Monkese (at least, you assume so, because you don't speak Monkese--maybe they're just wishing you Happy Birthday?). What do you do?
First, I only have 3 Nerf-bat wielding monkeys at my house. Although, it sometimes feels like 10. Maybe the neighbor monkeys are over? Well, first, I would threaten them, using Pig Latin - it's as close as I can get to Monkese "Oday ouyay eelfay uckylay unkspay?? Ogay aheadway, akemay ymay ayday!" Then, if they refuse to back down, I'll use a form Blitzkrieg (lightening war). It is the only real way to defend oneself against Nerf-bat wielding monkeys. Unfortunately, this isn't very common knowledge, so, spread the word people! You gotta strike where it hurts the most - usually in the form of "No PlayStation/videos/favorite toy for a week"... the monkeys usually back down after that. If they throw down the gauntlet again, well, then it's time for the Super Soaker 10 Billion. There's not a Nerf bat in the world that can withstand the crushing water from a SS10B. After a good thrashing, they usually scatter, tails between their legs. As for the neighbor monkeys, I send them home and let their parents figure out how to deal with them!
4. *college flashback* What's your major?
When I was actually in college it was Natural Science. If I could go back now, well, it would probably be more along the lines of interior design.
5. What is your biggest blessing?
Wow - hmm... I'm gonna have to say my Hubby. He is so supportive and understanding in all of my stupid mistakes. Let's take Saturday for example... we were supposed to head to Sea World (we have season passes) and we got to a town called Temecula, which is over half way there, when I realized that I had left the passes on the computer desk. IDIOT! I'm bawling my eyes out, Red is bawling his eyes out, Little Bug is starting to get upset (he doesn't like it when others cry) and Baby Girl is laughing. Such a sweetie. Anyway, Hubby grabs my hand, smiles, tells me it's okay. Reassures me over and over that I am not the imbecile I think I am. Then, instead of turning around and heading home, he takes me to my favorite restaurant in the world! Then he lets me go shopping at JoAnn Fabric and then we got a few groceries at WinCo. Never once did he get upset or mad. Just smiled, hugged me, held my hand and let me know that it was okay. If that isn't a blessing, I don't know what is!!
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Crazed Consumption
So, you may have noticed in my last post that I mentioned reading as a bad habit. I know a lot of people that think they don't get enough time to read. Me? I make my family insane with my "Just let me finish this page...(or chapter or book or series... )". For example, in the last week and a half I have read "All Moms Go To Heaven" - it's around 100 pages. "The Count of Monte Cristo" - which was approximately 580 pages. And I'm almost finished with "Strangling Your Husband is NOT an Option" -about 175 pages. I am not saying this to boast or brag because it really is a curse. I become EXTREMELY neglectful of my housework. Don't believe me?? I will be doing laundry today. It will take me all day and well into the night. I have at least 8 loads to do and the bedding really should be washed... :S My reading causes me to leave projects unfinished. My children don't get as much attention and neither does my husband. They aren't totally neglected, but I'm not really giving my all either. I can't seem to find a good balance. It's all or nothing with me. I will go for months without picking up a book. I just don't do it. But when I do, look out. I just read abridged versions of "The Scarlet Pimpernel" and "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" a few weeks ago. You should see my night stand. It is stacked high with books I want to read... "Harry Potter" books 5 and 6 (even though I read them in January...gotta reread them before the last book comes out in July) "War of the Worlds", "Thomas Paine: Common Sense and Other Writings", "A Peculiar People", "No Doubt About It", "Mere Christianity" AND "Isiah for Airheads" :) I want to read them all! So my question is, how do you balance the things you love with the things that are necessary? Do you set aside a certain amount of time each day or each week to do the things that you want to do? I have a hard time putting a good book down. I wish I could say the same about my laundry :S
So, you may have noticed in my last post that I mentioned reading as a bad habit. I know a lot of people that think they don't get enough time to read. Me? I make my family insane with my "Just let me finish this page...(or chapter or book or series... )". For example, in the last week and a half I have read "All Moms Go To Heaven" - it's around 100 pages. "The Count of Monte Cristo" - which was approximately 580 pages. And I'm almost finished with "Strangling Your Husband is NOT an Option" -about 175 pages. I am not saying this to boast or brag because it really is a curse. I become EXTREMELY neglectful of my housework. Don't believe me?? I will be doing laundry today. It will take me all day and well into the night. I have at least 8 loads to do and the bedding really should be washed... :S My reading causes me to leave projects unfinished. My children don't get as much attention and neither does my husband. They aren't totally neglected, but I'm not really giving my all either. I can't seem to find a good balance. It's all or nothing with me. I will go for months without picking up a book. I just don't do it. But when I do, look out. I just read abridged versions of "The Scarlet Pimpernel" and "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" a few weeks ago. You should see my night stand. It is stacked high with books I want to read... "Harry Potter" books 5 and 6 (even though I read them in January...gotta reread them before the last book comes out in July) "War of the Worlds", "Thomas Paine: Common Sense and Other Writings", "A Peculiar People", "No Doubt About It", "Mere Christianity" AND "Isiah for Airheads" :) I want to read them all! So my question is, how do you balance the things you love with the things that are necessary? Do you set aside a certain amount of time each day or each week to do the things that you want to do? I have a hard time putting a good book down. I wish I could say the same about my laundry :S
Meme
How do you pronounce that anyway? Is it like me me - with the long e sound? Or is it something else? Hmm... anyway, here's a meme for ya! Sorry it took me so long to get done Eve :)
INSTRUCTIONS: Remove the blog in the top spot from the following list and bump everyone up one place. Then add your blog to the bottom slot, like so.
1) Shelli’s Sentiments
2) CuriosityKiller
3) Doggy Mama
4) Eve
5) Melissa
Next select five people to tag: (if you haven’t done it already) I haven't been able to catch up on all of your blogs yet... so, if you've already done this, just leave the link to the meme in the comments so that I can come and visit! But, I'm gonna tag:
I Love Flip Flops
4 B's in a Pod
Inside Justine's Mind
So Grateful to be Mormon
Muskadillo Dreaming
What were you doing 10 years ago?
I had just graduated from Ricks College (it was still Ricks back then...) and I was trying to decide what to do with my life. I had met Hubby and we were dating. I really liked him, but wasn't sure where it all was going. I was torn between more schooling and going on a mission that winter. I decided on the mission, but then things got serious with hubby and we got engaged instead. :)
What were you doing 1 year ago?
One year ago we were in Hermiston, OR. Hubby had just switched jobs. We were sure this new job would be fantastic for us all. Unfortunately, their promise of regular work hours and a 5 day week were broken fairly quickly. He was working 12 hour days (plus an hour commute on each end) 6 days a week. It was a miserable experience for us all.
Hmmm... yikes... um...
How do you pronounce that anyway? Is it like me me - with the long e sound? Or is it something else? Hmm... anyway, here's a meme for ya! Sorry it took me so long to get done Eve :)
INSTRUCTIONS: Remove the blog in the top spot from the following list and bump everyone up one place. Then add your blog to the bottom slot, like so.
1) Shelli’s Sentiments
2) CuriosityKiller
3) Doggy Mama
4) Eve
5) Melissa
Next select five people to tag: (if you haven’t done it already) I haven't been able to catch up on all of your blogs yet... so, if you've already done this, just leave the link to the meme in the comments so that I can come and visit! But, I'm gonna tag:
I Love Flip Flops
4 B's in a Pod
Inside Justine's Mind
So Grateful to be Mormon
Muskadillo Dreaming
What were you doing 10 years ago?
I had just graduated from Ricks College (it was still Ricks back then...) and I was trying to decide what to do with my life. I had met Hubby and we were dating. I really liked him, but wasn't sure where it all was going. I was torn between more schooling and going on a mission that winter. I decided on the mission, but then things got serious with hubby and we got engaged instead. :)
What were you doing 1 year ago?
One year ago we were in Hermiston, OR. Hubby had just switched jobs. We were sure this new job would be fantastic for us all. Unfortunately, their promise of regular work hours and a 5 day week were broken fairly quickly. He was working 12 hour days (plus an hour commute on each end) 6 days a week. It was a miserable experience for us all.
Five snacks you enjoy:
- Peanut M&M's
- Wintergreen Lifesavers
- Almost any kind of fresh fruit
- Granola bars
- Hummus - my new favorite dip!
Hmmm... yikes... um...
- "Unwritten" by: Natasha Bedingfield
- "If I Had a Million Dollars" by: BNL
- "Accidentally in Love" by: Counting Crows
- "Mr. Mom" by: Lonestar
- "Who Says You Can't Go Home" by: Bon Jovi and Jennifer Nettles
Five things you would do if you were a millionaire:
- Pay off all debts of myself and my family
- Buy my dream home
- See the world - so many things I want to see and do!!
- Chefs, maids, personal assistants... you name it! :)
- Donate where ever I thought I could help
Five bad habits:
- Procrastinate - although, I admit to working better under pressure...
- Spending too much time on the computer
- I get out a bottle of water, drink half of it and then forget where I've set it. I do this all the time...
- Reading - I know that sounds weird, but I get completely absorbed into whatever I'm reading and I tend to let everything around me fall apart... so, it's a good/bad thing
- Not getting enough sleep - I'm always tired the next day, but that doesn't stop me... sigh... someday I'll learn, right?
Five things you like doing:
- Listening to music
- Visiting new places
- Playing with the kids
- Going out with hubby
- Reading... see bad habits above :)
Five things you would never wear again:
- Leggings
- Spike heels
- tapered or peg legged pants
- My hair in such a fashion that it looks like I could fly... y'all know what I'm talking about
- Two pairs of socks at the same time... sigh... guilty as charged...
Five favorite toys:
- My camera
- The computer - not that it's all that fancy, I just enjoy it :)
- My new van
- My debit card
- GPS
So, there you have it! Oh, and Happy Mothers Day to all you AWESOME moms out there! Hope your day is fabulous!
Friday, May 11, 2007
The Gift of Refreshment
Manna from heaven! They have fixed our air conditioner on this the 11th day of May, 2007. This day will be a hallowed day for our family. A day that we will recognize as a day of joy because we did not kill each other whilst suffering from this crazy heat. Join with me in celebration by viewing: Mahna Mahna (which is the closest thing I could find to Manna Manna and really, does it get any cooler than those bright pink puppets and the guy with the rockin orange hair singing complete nonsense? I think not.) Enjoy yourself while I go relish some time under a vent. (If I'm not back in a few days, please send someone to check for hypothermia....)
Manna from heaven! They have fixed our air conditioner on this the 11th day of May, 2007. This day will be a hallowed day for our family. A day that we will recognize as a day of joy because we did not kill each other whilst suffering from this crazy heat. Join with me in celebration by viewing: Mahna Mahna (which is the closest thing I could find to Manna Manna and really, does it get any cooler than those bright pink puppets and the guy with the rockin orange hair singing complete nonsense? I think not.) Enjoy yourself while I go relish some time under a vent. (If I'm not back in a few days, please send someone to check for hypothermia....)
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Melting Point
So, what does it take for you to loose your cool? At what point does your temper boil over? I pin pointed my exact boiling point today - 90 degrees. When the inside temperature of my home reaches 90 degrees, I am certifiably insane. I loose my cool (pun intended) at every turn. The air conditioner is still not fixed. They said it would be this morning, but the compressor is completely fried. So, they have to get a new one. They are saying tomorrow morning, but, if the old compressor still has a warranty on it, we will have to wait till they get all the information on that. Luckily for us the temperatures are supposed to drop. All the way down into the upper 90's. There is a distinct possibility that I will write my next post from an asylum. And you know what? I'm okay with that. Just look for me - I'll be the one in the pretty white jacket sitting in front of the A/C unit with a smile on my face.
So, what does it take for you to loose your cool? At what point does your temper boil over? I pin pointed my exact boiling point today - 90 degrees. When the inside temperature of my home reaches 90 degrees, I am certifiably insane. I loose my cool (pun intended) at every turn. The air conditioner is still not fixed. They said it would be this morning, but the compressor is completely fried. So, they have to get a new one. They are saying tomorrow morning, but, if the old compressor still has a warranty on it, we will have to wait till they get all the information on that. Luckily for us the temperatures are supposed to drop. All the way down into the upper 90's. There is a distinct possibility that I will write my next post from an asylum. And you know what? I'm okay with that. Just look for me - I'll be the one in the pretty white jacket sitting in front of the A/C unit with a smile on my face.
A Dreamland Called Good Will
Who shoplifts at Good Will? The guy we saw last weekend did. Although I'm still not convinced that he wasn't a decoy... I saw this man and woman arguing as I strolled along trying to scoop up deals and pondering how in the WORLD I was gonna get all this stuff into my luggage. ( I ended up having to buy another bag... ) ANYWAY, I didn't pay much attention to them and walked on. I narrowed down my purchases and headed to the checkout with the 10 other women I was with. That's right. I said 10. Have you ever been shopping with 10 bargain hunting women? It was awesome! Skirts, pants, shirts, purses, shoes, and dresses were flying! We were determined to get the best deals before someone else could scoop them up! :) Of course, we were polite to each other's faces. But then we'd look in each others basket and think "DANG IT! How did I miss that shirt??" Okay, so maybe I was the only one who did that... but I'm sure there were others. Well, that's what I'm going to tell myself so I don't feel like such a chump. Now where was I? This talk of bargain shopping has put me into an amnesia like euphoria... um... oh yeah, the shoplifter. Anyway, there is a long line at the check out. This guy comes up with a shirt and has a jacket draped over his arm. Tells the cashier he doesn't have time to wait, can he just pay for the shirt and be gone. Meanwhile, the girl he was with is practically running out the door (I think she must have had something she was taking...). The cashier tells him he has to wait in line to pay for his item. He says, "forget about it" and starts to walk off with this jacket. Now, this jacket is ugly. It's this weird brown fur that is matted and tangled and very obviously a woman's jacket. The cashier stops him, asks to look at it, and he says it's his "lady friend's" and starts to leave. The cashier stops him again, asks for the jacket and he protests. She asks again for the jacket and he hands it to her. The tags have been ripped off, but it has been marked with a washable marker on the inside. All the clothes at Good Will have this same mark. She informs him she has to call the manager and he runs! He nor his "lady friend" ever came back for the jacket. But, my little band of bargain hunters carried of a fair amount of loot! Except, we paid for our stuff :)
Who shoplifts at Good Will? The guy we saw last weekend did. Although I'm still not convinced that he wasn't a decoy... I saw this man and woman arguing as I strolled along trying to scoop up deals and pondering how in the WORLD I was gonna get all this stuff into my luggage. ( I ended up having to buy another bag... ) ANYWAY, I didn't pay much attention to them and walked on. I narrowed down my purchases and headed to the checkout with the 10 other women I was with. That's right. I said 10. Have you ever been shopping with 10 bargain hunting women? It was awesome! Skirts, pants, shirts, purses, shoes, and dresses were flying! We were determined to get the best deals before someone else could scoop them up! :) Of course, we were polite to each other's faces. But then we'd look in each others basket and think "DANG IT! How did I miss that shirt??" Okay, so maybe I was the only one who did that... but I'm sure there were others. Well, that's what I'm going to tell myself so I don't feel like such a chump. Now where was I? This talk of bargain shopping has put me into an amnesia like euphoria... um... oh yeah, the shoplifter. Anyway, there is a long line at the check out. This guy comes up with a shirt and has a jacket draped over his arm. Tells the cashier he doesn't have time to wait, can he just pay for the shirt and be gone. Meanwhile, the girl he was with is practically running out the door (I think she must have had something she was taking...). The cashier tells him he has to wait in line to pay for his item. He says, "forget about it" and starts to walk off with this jacket. Now, this jacket is ugly. It's this weird brown fur that is matted and tangled and very obviously a woman's jacket. The cashier stops him, asks to look at it, and he says it's his "lady friend's" and starts to leave. The cashier stops him again, asks for the jacket and he protests. She asks again for the jacket and he hands it to her. The tags have been ripped off, but it has been marked with a washable marker on the inside. All the clothes at Good Will have this same mark. She informs him she has to call the manager and he runs! He nor his "lady friend" ever came back for the jacket. But, my little band of bargain hunters carried of a fair amount of loot! Except, we paid for our stuff :)
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Aeroplane Adventures
I'm going to break my trip into several different sections because if I wrote it all in one shot, you'd be bored. And I don't want you to be bored! I want you to be entertained! You are entertained, aren't you? Wait - don't answer that. It just occurred to me that I might not want to know.... ANYWAY... I flew out on Thursday and got to Seattle without any problems. I'm thinking to myself, "I will never drive anywhere again!" Flying is totally the way to go! And the Seattle airport rocks! It's more like a mall than an airport. I ate at Wendy's, did a little window shopping (had to save money for the REAL shopping in Portland) and then hopped on my next flight. It was a teeny tiny plane. I think there were 22 passengers on board. It was like a 40 minute roller coaster ride. The weather was not cooperating and the small plane got tossed around by the wind. I was able to maintain my dignity and not puke everywhere. The only good thing about the flight was our flight attendant. She was smiling and sweet and tried to put us all at ease. She was AWESOME! And I was hoping that she would be on the flight back. She wasn't, but the flight back to Seattle was TONS smoother. I was even able to read a little bit. I had a 3 hour lay over in Seattle on the way home. I ate at Chili's (I'm tellin ya folks, the Seattle airport is the place to BE!) and then settled in with my book. There was a delay in the flight... something about scratches on the right wing and a discrepancy in the log book. If there is something wrong with the plane - TAKE YOUR TIME! I would rather be late getting home than crash and become trapped on some island where the Others are trying to kidnap me and drag me into the jungle to be attacked by the black smoke monster*. ANYWAY, the flight home was very entertaining because of a young man seated behind me. You see, he took FULL advantage of the beverage cart. He started off with 3 vodkas followed by at least one gin and tonic. Meaning he was a tad liquored up by the end of this flight. He's humming and singing along with the music from his dandy little iPod. Which, I have to admit, was more entertaining than my book at the time. He started to quiet down, but the music did not. Apparently drinking impairs this kid's sense of hearing because he kept turning the volume up. So, by the end of our journey I could hear the words to every song blasting from his iPod. It was so loud, that he didn't hear them telling the passengers to turn all electronic devices off. He's jamming along as we land. He finally turns the blaring music off, turns to the guy sitting next to him and yells, "SIR! HOW ARE YOU THIS FINE DAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYY?" The gentleman replies that he is well and then turns away. The drunk is not deterred. "WHERE ARE YOOOOOOUUUUUU FROM?" The man gives the name of his town and then politely asks where our inebriated friend is from. "I'M FROM..... UM.... I'M FROM PALM... SOMETHING.... PALM SPRINGS? NO... PALM DESERT... NO...IT'S A PALM THING... SO... YOU KNOW..." At this point he starts to laugh in a maniacal way and I am praying that this guy has a ride home. I escape the plane as he starts to sing and someone informs the flight attendant that there is an intoxicated passenger that might be a bit of a problem. Just by the look on her face, I knew that she knew exactly who the wasted man was. The best part though was seeing my kids. Baby Girl was standing in a window and I could hear her yell through the glass "IT'S MOMMA!!! LOOOOOOOOK!!! SHE'S HERE!!!" The squishes and squeezes were wonderful and I am glad to be home! Next time I will tell you about the wonderful shopping and the post after that will be about the things I learned at the Time Out! :)
*If you've not ever watched the T.V. drama "Lost" then just know that I was referencing the craziness that happens there :)
I'm going to break my trip into several different sections because if I wrote it all in one shot, you'd be bored. And I don't want you to be bored! I want you to be entertained! You are entertained, aren't you? Wait - don't answer that. It just occurred to me that I might not want to know.... ANYWAY... I flew out on Thursday and got to Seattle without any problems. I'm thinking to myself, "I will never drive anywhere again!" Flying is totally the way to go! And the Seattle airport rocks! It's more like a mall than an airport. I ate at Wendy's, did a little window shopping (had to save money for the REAL shopping in Portland) and then hopped on my next flight. It was a teeny tiny plane. I think there were 22 passengers on board. It was like a 40 minute roller coaster ride. The weather was not cooperating and the small plane got tossed around by the wind. I was able to maintain my dignity and not puke everywhere. The only good thing about the flight was our flight attendant. She was smiling and sweet and tried to put us all at ease. She was AWESOME! And I was hoping that she would be on the flight back. She wasn't, but the flight back to Seattle was TONS smoother. I was even able to read a little bit. I had a 3 hour lay over in Seattle on the way home. I ate at Chili's (I'm tellin ya folks, the Seattle airport is the place to BE!) and then settled in with my book. There was a delay in the flight... something about scratches on the right wing and a discrepancy in the log book. If there is something wrong with the plane - TAKE YOUR TIME! I would rather be late getting home than crash and become trapped on some island where the Others are trying to kidnap me and drag me into the jungle to be attacked by the black smoke monster*. ANYWAY, the flight home was very entertaining because of a young man seated behind me. You see, he took FULL advantage of the beverage cart. He started off with 3 vodkas followed by at least one gin and tonic. Meaning he was a tad liquored up by the end of this flight. He's humming and singing along with the music from his dandy little iPod. Which, I have to admit, was more entertaining than my book at the time. He started to quiet down, but the music did not. Apparently drinking impairs this kid's sense of hearing because he kept turning the volume up. So, by the end of our journey I could hear the words to every song blasting from his iPod. It was so loud, that he didn't hear them telling the passengers to turn all electronic devices off. He's jamming along as we land. He finally turns the blaring music off, turns to the guy sitting next to him and yells, "SIR! HOW ARE YOU THIS FINE DAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYY?" The gentleman replies that he is well and then turns away. The drunk is not deterred. "WHERE ARE YOOOOOOUUUUUU FROM?" The man gives the name of his town and then politely asks where our inebriated friend is from. "I'M FROM..... UM.... I'M FROM PALM... SOMETHING.... PALM SPRINGS? NO... PALM DESERT... NO...IT'S A PALM THING... SO... YOU KNOW..." At this point he starts to laugh in a maniacal way and I am praying that this guy has a ride home. I escape the plane as he starts to sing and someone informs the flight attendant that there is an intoxicated passenger that might be a bit of a problem. Just by the look on her face, I knew that she knew exactly who the wasted man was. The best part though was seeing my kids. Baby Girl was standing in a window and I could hear her yell through the glass "IT'S MOMMA!!! LOOOOOOOOK!!! SHE'S HERE!!!" The squishes and squeezes were wonderful and I am glad to be home! Next time I will tell you about the wonderful shopping and the post after that will be about the things I learned at the Time Out! :)
*If you've not ever watched the T.V. drama "Lost" then just know that I was referencing the craziness that happens there :)
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Dear Friends,
I started to write about my trip, but my brain is slowly melting! It is 10:06 and 99 degrees outside. Our air conditioner is not working. We don't know when they will be able to fix it. Our computer is located in an area that doesn't get a lot of circulating air. So, sitting here feels like a small inferno. The keyboard is too hot to touch. Okay, so, maybe that's a slight exaggeration, but still! It's stinkin hot in here! I am taking a heat hiatus and hopefully, I will be back as soon as they fix the darn thing. Till then, send cold thoughts my way ;)
I started to write about my trip, but my brain is slowly melting! It is 10:06 and 99 degrees outside. Our air conditioner is not working. We don't know when they will be able to fix it. Our computer is located in an area that doesn't get a lot of circulating air. So, sitting here feels like a small inferno. The keyboard is too hot to touch. Okay, so, maybe that's a slight exaggeration, but still! It's stinkin hot in here! I am taking a heat hiatus and hopefully, I will be back as soon as they fix the darn thing. Till then, send cold thoughts my way ;)
Monday, May 07, 2007
Quick Recap
The Good : Fabulous time, great friends, good food, lots of laughs, shopping galore, wonderful women's conference (Time Out for Women), I made it home!
The Bad : Bumpy flight, delayed flight, late nights+early mornings, allergies, having to leave friends again.
The Ugly : Little Bug has a fever and sick to his stomach yesterday and today, headache for myself, 100 degree temps and the air conditioner in the house is NOT working!!
I hope y'all are well!!
Tune in next time for details when I am a little more coherent...not exactly sure when that will be... possibly tomorrow :)
The Good : Fabulous time, great friends, good food, lots of laughs, shopping galore, wonderful women's conference (Time Out for Women), I made it home!
The Bad : Bumpy flight, delayed flight, late nights+early mornings, allergies, having to leave friends again.
The Ugly : Little Bug has a fever and sick to his stomach yesterday and today, headache for myself, 100 degree temps and the air conditioner in the house is NOT working!!
I hope y'all are well!!
Tune in next time for details when I am a little more coherent...not exactly sure when that will be... possibly tomorrow :)
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Now it Begins
I feel like the REAL countdown for my trip begins today! My in-laws are flying in today to help take care of the kids while I'm gone. They are so sweet to do this! Hubby was going to have to use a few days of vacation and now he will only have to use a few hours. I'm sad that I won't get to spend a lot of time with them. Yes, I am one of those weird people that likes my in-laws! I will have tonight, Wednesday and then part of next Tuesday before they fly out again. But, since we are saving precious vacation days, we will probably be able to make a trip to see them this summer! So, it's all good! Besides, they are coming to see the kids anyway. Everyone knows that once you bring kiddos into this world the parent figures cease to exists and Grandparents take their place. Hubby and I get the "Hi... how are ya... where are the kids?" from both sets of parents. But, it's all good. Much better than..." Hi... how are ya... OH NO!! YOU BROUGHT THE BRATS?" Yeah, much better than that. So, with my in-laws arrival today, I feel like my trip is really happening. It makes me excited and nervous. I don't know how much blogging I will be able to do in the next few days. And I don't think I will have time on my trip. So, my bloggy friends, have a great week and don't have too much fun without me!
I feel like the REAL countdown for my trip begins today! My in-laws are flying in today to help take care of the kids while I'm gone. They are so sweet to do this! Hubby was going to have to use a few days of vacation and now he will only have to use a few hours. I'm sad that I won't get to spend a lot of time with them. Yes, I am one of those weird people that likes my in-laws! I will have tonight, Wednesday and then part of next Tuesday before they fly out again. But, since we are saving precious vacation days, we will probably be able to make a trip to see them this summer! So, it's all good! Besides, they are coming to see the kids anyway. Everyone knows that once you bring kiddos into this world the parent figures cease to exists and Grandparents take their place. Hubby and I get the "Hi... how are ya... where are the kids?" from both sets of parents. But, it's all good. Much better than..." Hi... how are ya... OH NO!! YOU BROUGHT THE BRATS?" Yeah, much better than that. So, with my in-laws arrival today, I feel like my trip is really happening. It makes me excited and nervous. I don't know how much blogging I will be able to do in the next few days. And I don't think I will have time on my trip. So, my bloggy friends, have a great week and don't have too much fun without me!
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