Wednesday, December 31, 2008

I DID IT!

I have posted every day for the past year. 365 days! I can't believe I actually did it - I think maybe 10% of the posts were worth publishing. I have quite a few regular readers now - which is nice.

I think I may take a few days off (but, maybe not - I think I might go into blogging withdraw if I just don't post for a few days.

Anyway - thanks for sticking with me if you stuck this far!

I'm going to a party now! HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

100 Things that I Crossed off my List

On the side of this blog I have a list of a 100 things I want to do before I die. Here are the things that I accomplished this year:

  • Own a house with an in-ground pool - we did that! We put a pool in our backyard this past summer. I couldn't be more happy with it.



May 064

  • Learn Joomla - I did this as well. I put a site into production at http://accelerationbaton.com/. I also have a Joomla site that will soon go into production for the Rocklin Girls Fastpitch softball.


  • Go to Italy - well, I really did this in 2007, but I also did this in 2008. At least in 2008 I went with my husband and we got to actually see some things. We went to Milan, Venice and spent an afternoon in Switzerland.


  • Italy 233

  • Play in the rain with my kids - we did this in Daytona Beach, Florida. It started pouring down rain while we were at the beach. We stayed out and played in the ocean and the beach while it rained. It was really fun. You can see the rain in the sand (I drew this with my toes.


  • July 111

  • Go camping with the family and tell stories around the campfire. We took the kids camping for the first time this past summer. It was COLD at night and HOT in the day. We played at the beach at Pointe Reyes, CA. CA is such a great state to live in (except for the passing of Prop 8.)


  • camping 005

  • Complete my list of 100 things to do before I die - I can't believe how long this actually took me to finish.


  • Make smores with my kids - we did this while camping.


  • camping 006

  • Tell a manager to take this job and shove it - while I didn't really say take this job and shove it - I still quit my job. I even went to Italy to quit my job which is pretty interesting. How many people go to Italy to quit their job? I actually had to tell a couple of managers that I quit. I had two vice presidents try to talk me out of quitting. But, I can tell you right now - that it was absolutely the best thing for me to do.




  • Roast Marshmellows with my kids - I love roasting marshmellows - getting them so they are golden brown and puffy and melty is just the BEST!


  • camping 007

  • Boogie Board - I did this in Florida (in the rain). I only got one or two really good runs, but it was extremely fun.


  • Run and entire 5K Race (extra points - do it with Prissy) - Prissy and I raced in a 5K in October. I so wanted to walk the last 1/2 mile - but I had this little thing to knock off of my list. I ran an entire 5K. While, that is a tiny little amount to some of you - it was REALLY far for the girl who couldn't run down the block when she first started.


  • 5k 006

  • Ride in a Gondola in Venice - I did this with Hubby while we were in Italy. What an experience.


Italy 179


I think that 12 things isn't too bad - one thing a month. Going at this rate, I should be done in less than 10 years. Not too bad actually..

Monday, December 29, 2008

Haven't Stopped Today

Wow - today was a busy busy day.

I haven't stopped until just this second.

It started out with us waking up early and heading over to the ice skating rink to meet a friend. The kids skated while we froze in the stands. DANG it's cold in an ice skating rink - so cold that we could see our breath. BRRRRR!!!!

Then, we went to McDs - figure I better stock up on some fatty Big Macs before the diet restarts. Then, we came home and I made my grocery list and headed out to the store.

As soon as I came back and got the groceries put away, I went out front and took down the Christmas decorations.

THEN - I went and got fabric and batting to finish up my quilt (a qualified quilter tried talking me out of quilting this thing myself - told me that I should just send it out to be done with a long arm quilter (it's a king size). She's probably not wrong - but, I'm going to try to do it myself anyway. (Glutton for punishment.) It took me FOREVER - the place was PACKED. It took me almost 40 mins just to get my fabric cut. WTH? Then, it took me almost 20 minutes to check out - I thought Christmas time was over?

Anyway, I came home, made dinner. Actually, my sister in law sent us Jack Stack BBQ from Kansas City (she is the most awesome person EVER!), I warmed it all up for dinner and it was heavenly. I just don't get BBQ like this in CA. She is my favorite person today.

THEN, I had to go to Fry's to replace my son's MP3 player that he got from his Baba (grandma). I broke it yesterday. And, yes, it was totally and completely my fault. It had this weird charging thing that stuck out of the computer, and I walked past it and broke it off. Anyway, I replaced it with an MP3 that was a bit different - but he's happy.

Then, came home and I'm typing this. I didn't sleep well last night - so I'm pretty exhausted. I'm ready to just sit and read blogs for awhile.

Sorry this post was so freaking boring!

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Just Chilling

I'm sitting here in my bedroom, on my daughter's new little-bitty laptop while my son watches Wall-E (a gift for Christmas.) He wanted someone to cuddle with while he watched. I figured I'd cuddle and blog.

Bubba said that he wouldn't want to be Wall-E because he doesn't like picking up trash and he doesn't like being lonely. Me neither.

We went and saw Bedtime Stories at the theatre today - it was quite funny and silly. Perfect holiday movie.

I don't have much to blog about today - just feeling rested and content. I finished my quilt top, now, to baste it all together for the actual quilting (basting is my absolute LEAST favorite part of quilting - next to hand sewing the binding.)

So, I wish you a happy Sunday!

Saturday, December 27, 2008

More Random Pictures

Because -

Why not right?

This was taken on Christmas Eve Night - Bubba did NOT want his sister touching him:
christmas 001

Cookies for Santa:
christmas 002

The "before" shot:
christmas 003

Oreo wanted to open presents too:
christmas 006

Here was as white as we got for Christmas. Bubba's class grew these from bulbs and brought them home as Christmas presents. I think they are just so nice:
christmas 005

Notice how dark it is outside? This was Christmas morning - I guess we got up earlier than I thought. :)
christmas 004

The after picture (notice Oreo is still sitting under the tree):
christmas 008

Isn't Prissy's new toy cute?
christmas 009

Here is a picture of the quilt I've been working on (started it last year this time). This picture doesn't do it justice:
christmas 010

This is just the quilt top, and it still needs one more border - then I can quilt and bind the thing (maybe I can get it done by next Christmas. :))
christmas 011

Now, notice that blue carpeting on the side of that photo above? It's going to be replaced in the next few weeks! WITH NEW CARPET!!! YAY!

Friday, December 26, 2008

One Week of Vacation Over

Well - I've officially been on vacation for one week. Unfortunately, I had to work for about an hour on Wednesday night and 3 hours this morning. But, whatever - it just means that I can take a few more hours of vacation at a later time. Woo...

But, I really haven't done much. I'm not sure if that is a good thing or not. I have this enormous list of "to dos" that would feel really good to get off the list (like find a landscaper to deal with the hell that is our front yard.) The only thing that has gotten crossed off is getting a new garbage disposal. It will be installed next week. Our other one has a hole in it that we can no longer just ignore.

This week, I finished Christmas stuff, I played with the kids, I have cooked and cooked and cooked and cooked, I read, I got a pedicure, I played CSI Dark Motives PC Game (which I got YEARS ago and have never played), did some yard work with Prissy (I love Prissy but I HATE yard work) and today I quilted (I tend to only quilt in the winter and around Christmas vacation - I love it, but it's rather time consuming). I've done my normal chores, and all that good stuff. But, my question is - will I have longer term "relaxation" benefit if I just totally kick it and relax these two weeks, or if I get some of those major "todos" taken care of? Maybe I'll see if I can't balance it - get a few things done and also be lazy. *sigh*

Anyone know of a good landscape designer that works in the winter?

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

I hope that each and every one of you had a wonderful holiday and that your stockings (or whatever else you choose to do) were filled with wonderful things.

We had a wonderful Christmas! Gluttony both material and foodwise. We had all of our biggest desires filled.

I was spoiled - as always. The kids were also very spoiled. I got Photoshop - so I've been playing with photo editing today. Teehee!




The only exception we've had to our day is that the plumbing went out on our kitchen sink (we've had a little leak which sort of turned into a clog today - which turned into a big hole - aka a BIG leak.) But, we just need to get a new garbage disposal and have it installed. Piece of cake.

I'm off to make a leftover ham sandwich - I've been more excited about this sandwich than just about any other food we've had for the holidays. :D

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Is Christmas Over Yet?

Man! Oh Man! Has Bubba been a BEAR today. He has been so good since Halloween time - but today - he just threw it all away. So much so that I am actually considering that he may not get all of his gifts tomorrow (but, I'm a wuss and he'll of course get all of his gifts.) He just has been a pure little jerk today. I sent him to bed early.

We had a big day today - we went out to lunch then went bowling (in which Bubba was Negative Nancy the whole time because his sister was beating him - needless to say - he beat me - but whatever.) Then we just had a lot of errands to run and get done. It was raining and yucky outside - so the kids couldn't go to the park.

We made Christmas cookies for Santa, and then went to look at Christmas lights. They got their ritual pajamas that magically showed up on their bed while we were out. Usually Bubba gets to open one present from his grandma on Christmas Eve - but he lost that when he was being exceptionally mean to his sister (so mean it made her cry.) WTH?

I'm thinking that Santa might write him a letter tonight. Or not... I don't know.. Maybe it was just too much excitement and he just was reacting (he has been pretty nervous about Santa coming since "The Halloween Candy Sneaking" and the "Getting Caught in the Girls Bathroom at School and Getting Sent to the Principal." So, maybe he's just nervous.) He kept saying over and over all day, "I"m not getting a skateboard anyway - and that's all I want." It's like he's trying to prep himself.

We had a long talk at dinner tonight about being grateful and thankful for what we had NOW, and even if we lost everything we'd still have each other. I don't think it really sunk in though, after we finished talking he said to his sister, "Told you - I'm not getting my skateboard." But he is only seven...

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Strange Gift

Our neighbors dropped presents by today - which is so incredibly nice. This whole neighborly thing is quite new to me. This particular neighbor has a 7 year old son who we bring home from school every day. He's a good kid. And we are also very lucky that Bubba and this boy are the best of friends - they play together all the time (which is just awesome - they do all sorts of things and can also go ride their bikes at the park across the street.)

Anyway, they brought a present for Bubba - and Bubba opened it after they left - it was a cheese plate and knife. It was really cute - snowmen on it. But, seems like an odd choice for a 7 year old. I don't think it's the best idea to give Bubba knife at all... *LAUGH*

So dear internets - what do I do? Do I say, "Thank you for the gift - Max loves his cheese plate and knife. It matches his wine glasses.." Or, do I just keep my mouth shut? (They gave Hubby and I presents too - some wonderful gift certificates - which are incredibly generous. It all makes me feel a little weird because I gave them a plate of homemade fudge and they were REALLY generous. They gave Prissy a gift too - a little personalized sign with her name (which is not an easily found name)).

Anyway - weird... Should I say something or just keep my mouth shut? It could be that their other friends end up with a Dangerous Boys book instead of a nice cheese plate. But, then what do we say?

Monday, December 22, 2008

Christmas Kitty Pictures

Here are some Kitty Christmas Pictures:

Ahhhh Warm!!!
stuff 003

Kitties like books too:
stuff 004

Squishing the Teddy Bear:
stuff 007

Ticked off Santa Kittah says, "You are on the naughty list!":
stuff 009

Santa Kittah sleeping on her laptop bag sleigh:
stuff 012

"Guardian of The Upstairs" Kittah:
stuff 016

Oreo says, "What is that shiny thing down there?"
stuff 017

Sunday, December 21, 2008

12 Days of Christmas

This is a quick video of the last verse of the 12 days. :D

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Near Perfect Day

I had a near perfect day today. The weather was sunny and a balmy 57 degrees. Hubby and I got to sleep in (ahhh...) Then after some lounging with the kids, I made fried egg and bacon sandwiches, and then we went to Taekwondo at 12:30. The kids didn't fight at all. After class (which actually almost killed me) Prissy and Bubba went to the park (they just decided to go all on their own.) I went to the library to pick up my audio versions of my Twilight series books and stopped off at the dry cleaners - who gave us a lint brush as a Christmas gift for being regular customers.

Then... THEN?!! I went and got a pedicure.... Oh, I love pedicures... LOVE THEM!!! When I got home, Bubba had his best bud over from across the street and they were playing nicely.

Then dinner at my favorite Mexican restaurant - with a BIG MARGARITA! Yum... I'm full, happy, well rested and have pretty toes. That to me is a near perfect day.

Friday, December 19, 2008

Woohoo!!! VACATION!

I'm officially on vacation starting NOW. While I'm enjoying work - I'm really looking forward to having 2 weeks to just decompress after the hell of a year I just came off of.

During that time - I will complete (assuming I eat no more sushi and do not end up in the hospital) my blog 365 - that's a heck of an accomplishment.

I leave this for you (this could have been me if I hadn't changed jobs):

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Not in the Plans

Today wasn't a terribly pleasant day. It started with the dentist. I don't really mind the dentist too too much - but I don't especially like it either. Not the world best way to start the day.

I went to lunch at my favorite sushi restaurant - and they accidentally made me an extra Folsom Roll (It's made with crab, shrimp tempura, sauces, eggs, ebi. It's just wonderful.) So, I had a LOT of it (twice as much as normal.) I eat at this restaurant about once a week. It is just the best.

I then went back to work, and about 45 minutes later, my stomach started itching. I went to the bathroom and my stomach was broken out in hives. Weird. It was damn itchy. Then, it started moving to my chest, up my neck and to my ears. I went and bought some benedryl from our work "store" and took it about 2pm. By about 2:20, my left eye started swelling up and I started to get wheezy. I called a friend who had a weird reaction to sushi and he told me to get to the ER.

I hemmed and hawed - thinking the benedryl would kick in. A friend from work walked me outside to get some air (I was sweating like a pig and my heart was absolutely racing.) I decided that I needed to go to Urgent Care. He offered to drive me, but I thought that I would be fine. About halfway there - my throat started itching and I started coughing like crazy.

I got there (it's rather close to work), and in hindsight - I so should have had my co-worker drive me. They wanted me to fill out paperwork, but I couldn't remember how old I was, and who my doctor was. I really struggled with it - while getting incredibly light headed and coughing like crazy.

Anyway, they brought me in very quickly and decided to give me a shot of something -she said it was a steriod like prednisone. HOWEVER - I had to get it in the ass. And they were showing the new medical assistant how to do it. Who was 21 and MALE. I had to drop my pants, lean over on the examination table while putting weight on my left foot - while she is explaining where to give it. She says, "I cut the hip in half (while showing him with her fingers) - the siatic nerve runs right through here. You never ever ever want to hit the siatic nerve." Me thinking, "OH SHIT!!! SHE'S GONNA HIT MY SIATIC NERVE!!!!!" She continues, "then, I cut it in half again,z' marking it with her fingers on my ASS THAT IS STICKING OUT HANGING IN THE WIND WHILE I'M COUGHING!!!

She gives me the shot. About 15 minutes later, I felt SO much better. They gave me a perscription for Prednisone, told me to take Benedryl tonight and sent me on my way. *ugh*

I went back to work to apologize to my boss for skipping the meeting I was supposed to attend. Then I headed towards home - hubby called and reminded me that I had a hair cut and color tonight. I was SO not in the mood - I was feeling rather drugged out.

I went to the appointment and my hair dresser said she was so sorry but she had doubled booked me and could I reschedule - I was SO HAPPY!!!! YES! I could absolutely reschedule.

So, I'm home - tired. I'm going to bed early tonight. Nothing went as planned today.

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Christmas Party

Holy crap -

What a busy day. Here it was in all of it's glory:

6:00 alarm goes off - I sac it
6:45 I finally arouse enough to get out of bed after saccing and saccing my stupid alarm
7:00 Freak out because the kids aren't up yet - finish getting ready.
7:15 Breakfast, pack lunch/snacks, check email, pick up crappe, get everything ready for the day.
7:35 Freak out because we haven't left yet.
7:45 Walk kids to school - hubby suggests we carpool today.
7:47 Head off to work.
8:35 Arrive to work - fall down in the parking lot - there is FUCKING ICE!!! WTF?!!?? Ice???
8:40 Work
11:29 Decide to head home (Wednesday's I work from home in the afternoon.)
11:30 Boss calls - major emergency... Damn - I have to leave anyway - I have to pick kids up from school.
11:45 Leave for home (todo list a mile long)
12:30 Get home, log on - send multiple emails.
12:50 Gulp down some lunch
1:15 Go and pick up Bubba
1:20 Work
2:20 Prissy comes home.
2:45 Head off to doctor to get flu shots.
3:15 Find out that kids will need booster for flu shots in 30 days (FUCK! It took me 2 months just to get THIS appointment)
3:30 Head back to work with kids in tow for Christmas party that started at 3pm.
4:10 Arrive at work - the party is over. DOH! Saw old New Italian Boss - I wanted so much to bitch slap him.
4:30 Go upstairs and see new good boss. He plays hockey in the hallway with the kids.
5:00 Head off to baton Christmas party.
8:30 Finally get home - tired.

Summary: Went to work (45 mins away) twice today. Had multiple work "emergencies." Took kids to the doctor and went to two Christmas parties. I freaking hate this season.

Bah Humbug...

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Hair Ball

My kids had this ball with little plastic thingies all over it. Sort of like a koosh ball - but big. And it didn't have a hard center.

Anyway, over the past two years all the little plastic thingies were pulled fell off, then it was sat upon and flattened.


Prissy has asked for a replacement ball. So, I began my internet search (because I abhor shopping this time of season - duh). Ummm... How was I going to do that search?


Google Search: Balls 90,500,000 results


hmmm...


Google Search: Hairy Balls 528,000 results


I narrowed it down, but my results were not right...


After days and days of looking for hairy balls - I finally found it... At Target (the only major discount place I can stand to visit during the Christmas season.) The key word was Gigantic - I needed to look for Gigantic Hairy Balls. I bought two - they aren't blue though.


Monday, December 15, 2008

Meme Because I'm Lazy

You get a meme today - because I'm Lazy

Favorite Christmas…

01. Non-Jesus-related song? “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer"
02. Jesus-related song? “Silent Night”
03. Santa-related song? “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus”
04. Fictional character? Elf - "Smiling is my favorite"
05. Dinner’s main course? Ham?
06. Dinner’s dessert? Ummm - anything... I'll eat any desert.
07. Scent (pine, gingerbread, candles…)? Pine
08. Animated movie? Peanuts Christmas
09. Non-animated movie? Either the Christmas Story or Elf.
10. Personal memory? Huge gatherings at our house with family friends.
11. Story/Fairy Tale? Twas the Night Before Christmas.

If you are reading this - I TAG YOU!

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Oh No - Winter is here

I hate winter. Not a little - a whole stinking lot. I grew up in Kansas City - where winters were COLD and ice was plenty. A cold winter morning is -5. I remember going outside and my hair freezing where it wasn't completely dry. I moved away from that mess to Sacramento. It's California right?

Here, the winters consist of rain and cold. Usually the lows are n the 30s. I've been here for 13 years - and now - the 30s are really really cold. REALLY cold. Especially when mixed with rain.





This? There are so many things wrong with this picture. So many things that make me unhappy. First is the Sunset time. 4:44? The sun is setting at FOUR FORTY FOUR??? Ugh... I'm not even out of work yet. I arrive at work in the dark and leave in the dark. GROSS!

Second - tomorrow night? Rain into snow? INTO SNOW!!!! My kids - so excited... Me - I think I've decided I'm moving to San Diego. I don't mind the rain as much as the cold.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Things I Learned Today

My kids ask me the strangest questions. Here were 3 things they asked me and their answers (I love the internet.)

Question: Is Jello made out of pigs hooves?
Answer: From http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/7953 Not pigs hooves, but it's a by-product of pig skin.

Question: The moon looks close, is it more than 2 miles away?
Answer: From http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu//cosmic_kids/AskKids/moondist.shtml The moon is about an average distance of 240K miles away from the earth.

Question: What happens if someone takes off their helmet in space?
Answer: Hubby and I disagreed over this one and it turns out that we were both right. From http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080831021006AAmPP0c
Here's what happens when you are suddenly exposed to the vacuum of space.

1. If you hold your breath, your lungs will rupture, which will be fatal even if you are taken back inside right away
2. If you exhale, all blood passing through your lungs will be deoxygenated. It takes about 15 seconds for blood to go from your lungs to your brain, so you have about 15 seconds of consciousness.
3. The liquid in any exposed mucus membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) will start evaporating, leading to rapid cooling, and severe frostbite after a couple minutes
4. After around 5 minutes, your brain will start sustaining permanent damage due to oxygen deprivation
5. You will also experience slight nitrogen narcosis ("the bends"), but the oxygen deprivation will kill you much faster than this.

Your chances of a full recovery are very high after 30 seconds of exposure. There may be permanent frostbite damage after 2 minutes. After 5 minutes, your chances of survival diminish rapidly.

Don't know if it's true, but whatever. It was a good enough answer for Bubba - you suffocate, you explode (on the inside) and you freeze to death.

Competition

Prissy had her competition today - she did very well (but not as well as she personally would have liked.) She came in second place in both of her events. The team did incredible. The weather was pretty nice and the girls were able to practice outside. The contest itself moved very quickly and was well run (given the very small gym size.)

Prissy has two brand new routines, which are much more difficult - she is struggling a bit with them. I think it's great that she is learning some new, very tough, things. We really adore her new coach.

We are going over to a friends house this evening. Prissy and I are pretty tired, so I doubt that we will stay very late. Anyway, it will be nice to see our friends.

Friday, December 12, 2008

Almost Done

I am almost done with the Christmas shopping - Gawd I love me some internet...

Tomorrow, Prissy has her first competition of the season. She has an entirely new routine and an entirely new coach - so tomorrow will be interesting. To make it MORE interesting, December is the local competition. We usually have to travel to competitions - but the December one is in Sacramento. I was really excited because this one was supposed to be EXTREMELY close to our house (her lessons are about 45 mins away). But, then we found out that they lost that gym and the competition is where we have practice. Which is in an elementary school multipurpose room. Which is barely big enough for our team. There are no bleachers. There will be no place to sit, no place to change, not even enough room to be. If the weather was supposed to be nice it might work out okay. But, the weather calls for rain and a high of 47. (which by the way is too cold for girls in leotards to be waiting around outside.) Blech...

So, dreading tomorrow a little. But, we are going over to our good friends house tomorrow night - in which we will drink lots of wine and/or butter rum and go look at Christmas lights. That will be fun. :)

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Things You Don't Hear Everyday

These are things I've heard (and or said) today -

  • "There's couscous in my belly button." *
  • "Stupid lemon eater." **
  • "Am I supposed to be in the brown one or the white one?" ***
  • "He has on white makeup to make him look more pale" ****

* Dinner conversation

** Discussion about a guy who has a bitch of a wife (the quote was actually from a Dilbert cartoon).

*** Discussion about which building the coach interviews were in.

**** Discussion about Edward Cullen in the Twilight movie.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Pomegranate

So, I purchased my first pomegranate last Sunday. I've never had a Pomegranate. But, apparently they are "wonderful" so I had to see what all the fuss was about.

Man, a pomegranate is one UGLY fruit. Looks like a really mean onion. Or an onion that has turned into a Harley rider.

Anyway, I cut into the thing and had no idea what to do with it. What was I suppose to eat? So, I went my good friend the internet, and asked it what in the hell I was supposed to with this thing. It explained it very clearly. So, I removed the pith and separated the seeds. And dug in.

I personally didn't like the seeds, so I juiced the little seeds in my mouth and bit off the little bit of flesh and spit out the seed. Seemed like a lot of work for such little pay off. Sort of like Sunflower seeds - but sweet instead of salty.

But, then I noticed I was nomming on them all day - but I wasn't craving other things (like doughnuts, cake, Peppermint Mochas, and Pizza.) So, weird - definately. Tasty? A little bit.. But, really, it just gave my mouth something to do.

Then, my son came home from school and said - OH POMEGRANATE! And grabbed a few seeds - threw them into his mouth - sucked the juice out and spit out the seed. Just like that. It wasn't the huge production I was turning it into. I asked him where he had had pomegranates before. He said school - all the kids bring pomegranates for snack...

Guess I live in California, huh?

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

At least it's something

Man - Christmas just keeps getting closer and closer. I could use an extra day or two. I snuck out at lunch and went shopping. I am so far behind. I always like to be finished by now. I don't even have my Christmas cards done yet (however, they are now addressed and I have my letters printed and pictures cut up.) I always ALWAYS underestimate the amount of time Christmas cards take.

I also sent in a mail to reserve a place for Prissy's birthday party. Her birthday is right after Christmas - so, I always procrastinate finding a place. Hopefully the place she wants is available (it's a huge warehouse o'trampoline. The entire place is a ginormous trampoline. It's so cool.)

I'm still on my diet. So far so good - I've lost 4 pounds so far. Calories in vs calories out actually works. *laugh* I'm pretty sure the weightloss will slow down this week - I'm eating well - I'm not hungry. But, I do have to exercise. I get to consume about 1500 calories a day - and I have to burn 2000 a day (that includes the calories that are just burned by breathing). That should result in a loss of a pound a week. Not too bad. So far it's working.

Wow, this is probably one of the most boring posts ever... Sorry 'bout that.

Monday, December 8, 2008

The Gig is Up

I was confronted yesterday. I had a hostile situation in my house. Demands were made. Tears were shed. Dreams were broken. The gig is up...

Prissy (my almost 10 year old daughter) cornered me and asked me if Santa was real. I had to tell her the truth. It was horrible (for me, not for her). She took it all in stride. She wasn't devasted. I was though. It's another passing of childhood. *sob*

What makes this a little more traumatic for me, is that Hubby was supposed to TELL HER! He kept wimping out over and over. And finally the poor thing had to just ask outright. At least she won't be made fun of in school (well, at least not for still believing in Santa.)

I told her that now she knew, she was officially recruited as an elf. Santa himself may not be real - but the spirit of Santa was alive and well in this household - and she now had to ensure that his spirit was met.

I'm still sad about it today.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Cuff?

Bubba was playing a computer game with his sister this morning and started yelling "CUFF!!" "CUFF!" After about 10 times of this, I asked him what cuff meant. He said - oh it's the REALLY BAD word spelled backwards. It's not bad if you say it backwards - it becomes GOOD then..

Huh?

Cuff = Kcuf... Ohhhh....

Umm - I told him that he shouldn't say bad words backwards either.

He is ALWAYS just skirting the rules...

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Froze my ass off

Today, Bubba had a soccer tournament. Who schedules a soccer tournament in December? Well, everyone in our regional area I suppose. Anyway, it was SOOOOO cold. (but, realize, I have lived in CA for almost 15 years - so 35 is COOOOLD!!!!) Well, to be realistic - I think that anyone out in the 35 degree weather for 5 hours would be cold. Especially for those people that don't have warm clothes or coats.

Bubba had to play 4 games today, and the games started at 8:30 this morning and they had a 30 minute break between games. It was just freezing. Prissy went down a slide and got her pants all wet and we had to run home between games. Then, later, after we ate lunch, I spilled a diet coke all over my pants (and car) and had to go home to change pants. I don't know what was up with getting our pants wet today.

Anyway, Bubba's undefeated team were just mediocre during this tournament. I don't know if the boys were cold or if they just actually had competition (teams traveled from all over to play in this tourney.) Bubba was not "ON" today. We're not even sure that he was playing - he might have been picking clovers. Don't know.

Anyway, Hubby had to go help with girls softball registration after the games and I put up the christmas tree and inside decorations - it feels good to at least have that done.

I'm not even sure I'll be able to finish all the Christmas stuff this year - but I can still hope.

Friday, December 5, 2008

Well Why Not?

I talked to another ex-co-worker today - and he just reconfirmed my decision to leave. I'm so freaking happy that I don't report to NIB anymore.

*******

We had put together a plan that would allow me to quit my job, and either just be a happy SAHM or start a small web design company. There are so many things in our house that we want (or need) to repair, replace, or refurbish. But, we just simply don't have time to bring in contractors, get quotes, etc. while we are working.

However, the economy is in such a crap state right now - that it just didn't feel right to quit working right now (and also not a good time to start a company.) So, I changed jobs and companies and managers. That was the best change that could have happened. I feel like a new person.

Although, we still don't have time to do work on our house. DOH! We'll just have to figure it out.

******

Diet is going... Today, I went out to a going away lunch for a friend - I didn't do so great. And I really really really don't want to exercise tonight. *sucgh* (suck - ugh) I haven't decided what I'm going to do yet.

******

Bubba has a soccer tournament tomorrow - he has 4 soccer games - I guess we won't be putting up lights or the tree tomorrow. DOH! We still haven't done that yet. It's also pretty cold here - I don't know that I really want to be outside all day (I'm such a selfish mother.)

******

OMG - I watched Twilight yesterday with a friend. Holy crap... Can I just say that I'm in love with Edward (and even Bella a little bit)... Yummy... I'm so addicted to the books it's stupid. I don't know what is wrong with me.

******

My kids are watching Olive the Other Reindeer and eating popcorn. It makes me feel all warm and happy inside...

******

Now - to exercise or to pour myself a glass of wine.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Blog 365 - Sprint to the Finish Line

Last year, about this time I think - I signed up for Blog365. Where we had to post every day for an entire year. So far I have accomplished this goal (the only questionable time was when I was in Italy and I lost a day flying there. So, I posted twice, and I tried to make up for the time.)

There have been so many posts of - "I have nothing to say - I just have to post today otherwise I won't make my goal." And other days of just lots of pictures.

This feels like quite the accomplishment, but it's not over yet. I'm sprinting to the finish line.

Why did I do this? And what do I get? Absolutely nothing - other than meeting some other really cool bloggers - and the sense of accomplishment (as well as one more thing I can knock off of my 100 things list.)

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Stumped

I read a quote today:

"Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of those that matter the least." -author unknown

I found out some really bad news about a friend and co-worker of mine. I will not share without their permission, but the news is probably the worst news someone can get.

It's the kind of news when you hear about it, it makes you grateful for family, health, stability. It's the kind of news that you are forever afraid is waiting around the corner for you. And the kind of news that makes you want to finish everything on your '100 things to do before you die' list right away.

It's the kind of news that breaks your heart.

Or at least that's the way that I felt when I heard the news.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

For Your Pleasure

Because this damn song has been stuck in my head all day - I now give it to you:


Monday, December 1, 2008

Did I mention?

I think that I mentioned last week that I was going to start my new Sparkpeople diet. Well, started yesterday - and so far so good. Although, I'm only two days into it. It's a totally novel concept - burn more calories than I consume. WHO CAME UP WITH THAT ONE??!??

Ok, ok... So, I have to exercise, and eat healthy... And if I want a little something extra, I have to exercise a little bit more to burn it off. I will tell you that my gowear fit (tells me exactly how many calories I've burned) makes it quite a bit easier.

Another random bit of news - I am really enjoying my new job. It is so nice to not manage anyone for awhile. While I LOVED managing - this break is so nice. No whining, no complaining, no pissing contests. I can just sit in my little cube (or at home at my breakfast table) and do my work. It's really nice. However, I'm sure I'll get bored before too long. One of my former employees IMed me today and told me a classic NIB (New Italian Boss - primary reason I quit my job) story. First, I got really pissed for her. Then, I calmed down, as she handled it better than I would have. Finally - I was just SO TOTALLY GRATEFUL that I don't have to deal with that crap anymore. *huge sigh of relief*

Sunday, November 30, 2008

OMG!

Did you realize that tomorrow is December 1st? DECEMBER??!!!!! My mother is done Christmas shopping. I haven't even THOUGHT it about it yet.

December is usually absolutely chaotic - I don't think I'm ready for December. DECEMBER??!!!! Did it sneak the fuck up on anyone else, or is it just me?

I think my kids know the minutes until Santa comes (which reminds me that we really need to have THE SANTA TALK with my 9 year old... DREADING!!!!) But, I didn't realize that tomorrow was DECEMBER.

Crap... I better get busy... Right after I finish watching this TV show...

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Pringles?

I have a fever. And it's NOT the fever for the flavor of a Pringle. I have had a nagging, niggling cold for the past week and a half - today, it got nasty. It's in my head, it's in my chest... Urgh... Actually last night, I started running a fever and I haven't felt good all day. Advil helps.

Anyway, I'm going to go curl up under a quilt and read my book (currently I'm reading The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larsson - I'm about 3/4ths of the way through it and while it's quite the page turner, it's also pretty gruesome.

Friday, November 28, 2008

Random Pictures

Here are a few random pictures that I have taken (or had taken) in the last couple of weeks:

This is at Bubba's soccer party. They went bowling. This was an interesting shot with the bowling ball in the air - they're supposed to be airborne - right?
random 004

Jasmine has it in the bag:
random 005

Here is a picture of our Thanksgiving table yesterday.
random 006

Yummmm Turkey:
random 007

The only thing that brings all three kitties together is a little bit of leftover turkey:
random 009

Here are a few of our family pictures that we took last weekend:
s41156cb108668_1_0

She's getting more and more beautiful by the day:
s41156cb108668_13_0

Oh, we're gonna have trouble with this one when he gets older.
s41156cb108668_21_0

So - there is my family, and a little glimse into our life these last few weeks.

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope everyone in the US had a wonderful and filling Thanksgiving. And if you aren't from the US - I hope that you had a good day too and had something delicious to eat.

I'm still stuffed. It was just Hubby, Prissy and Bubba and I here at the Chalet. We missed our extended family, but it was also nice to have a small Thanksgiving.

Right now, while we are all still digesting - Bubba is playing on the computer. I'm blogging on my work computer and Hubby and Prissy are playing Rock Band. I get called over every once in a while to sing a song (if neither one of them can pass it.)

I'm sipping on a rum and diet coke. And just feeling very serene.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

He better run!!!

Today, as we were leaving from a little jaunt to pick up some arts and
crafts, we saw a turkey making a break for it. He better run!!! There
was a grocery store right across the street.

What is up with all the turkeys running around here? Did a local farm
have a breakout? This is just weird.

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Not much to Update

I do not have too much to update on tonight. I worked from home on Monday - while the kids tried to entertain themselves. I went in to work today - and got quite a bit done today. Then, I will work from home tomorrow. That's what happens when the kids are out of school and there is no vacation time left. :)

I went to Taekwondo tonight, and it was fun. But, I'm a bit sore from all the exercising that I've been doing lately. Part of me feels good that I've been exercising, but the other part is just sore...

Hubby is going to bake a pumpkin pie tomorrow. WOOHOO! His pumpkin pie is about the best thing in the entire world. It's actually my favorite food from thanksgiving. YUMMY!

See, told you I didn't have much to update tonight.

Monday, November 24, 2008

I Guess I'll Try This Too

Ok -

It's almost time to hit the annual diet. Here is how things go:

  • After Thanksgiving I hit it hard and diet like crazy (taking off for Christmas and New Years)
  • I drop a good amount of weight (but NEVER EVER to my goal weight) and I'm looking decent by March-ish where my pants are all too big.
  • I maintain through about July.
  • I start creeping up through August, September, October and November I'm back to where I was.
  • Rinse and Repeat

I usually do Weight Watchers. This year, I got a GoWear Fit device that sits on my tricep that measures how many calories I burn (it seems surprisingly accurate.) I got it from Amazon - it's cheaper.

Anyway, I also signed up for a Sparkpeople account (which is free) - and so far - that seems REALLY REALLY COOL! Things are broken into small goals, and you earn "points" for doing certain things. I'm seriously addicted to earning POINTS so, this might be a good thing for me. There are virtual trophies! And shiny things added to my page! I haven't started my official "diet" yet. I'm still eating bad, but I've started exercising again. It actually feels quite good. I'm really sore though. :)

So - my goal is to

  1. Hit my goal weight by next May.
  2. Keep at my goal weight through December.

dang... seems like a daunting challenge right now.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Why did the Turkey Cross the Road?

Yesterday, Prissy and I were driving to the library. I was driving down a neighborhood street that has a golf course nestled in between houses. It also crosses a street (so, as you drive down the street on the right you see house, house, golf course, house on the left side of the street you also see house, house golf course, house.)

Anyway... we were driving down the street about 30 miles per hour when ALL OF THE SUDDEN THERE WAS A STAMPEDE OF TURKEYS!!!!! I shit you not. The "lead" turkey just started running across the street and I had to slam on my breaks. Then, about 15 other turkeys followed behind him. They were running from one side of the golf course to the other. The most hilarious thing? They were using the cross walk...

Prissy and I were trying to decide if:
a) they were exercising so they'd be too lean to eat.
b) they were running from Da Man who was gonna eat them for dinner.
c) or they were preparing for the Turkey Trot - which is just down the way a bit. Seems like their training is paying off - they were FAST!

I wish I could have gotten some pictures, but they were just too fast for me to get my cell phone out.

Anyway, I wish them all the best in their race.

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Can't Tell Yet

So, last night Prissy had her first sleepover and I missed her very much. Tonight, we let Bubba have a friend over to spend the night. I'm not sure if that was a good idea or a bad idea yet. At this point (7:30pm-ish) it seems like it is going well. The boys are playing upstairs and keeping each other entertained. So far so good. I'm not sure how the rest of the night will go.

Prissy is currently watching Never Ending Story - a favorite of mine when I was a kid.

The boys are quiet upstairs. OH SHIT!!! THEY ARE QUIET!!! WHAT ARE THEY DOING??!!!!

Friday, November 21, 2008

Growing Up

Tonight, my daughter is gone. She is at her very first sleep-over. It feels really weird. The house seems empty without her. Even though she would be sleeping upstairs, I can feel her absence.

I didn't think that her going up the street to a friends house over night would hit me quite so hard.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

So Young

I found this picture when I was moving my office. It's from 1994 and shows a very young and happy couple (just a side note - I FINALLY got my new printer today and it scans awesomely.)




Here is the old fart couple in 2008:

misc 024


We've been together a really long time. I can without hesitation say that I still love him as much as ever. And no, it's not our anniversary or anything special today - I'm just feeling very stress-free. I really do have the greatest husband ever.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Kitty Hood

I'm really having trouble publishing this silly post tonight. I keep writing it up and then losing it. Hopefully it will take this time.

This is a picture of Jasmine with her hood on. She has since been allowed to take it off, but I love this picture. As I've posted on this blog before, she really enjoys playing in the sink with the water on. But, add a kitty-collar to the mix and it because hysterical. The collar becomes a funnel to her body for any sort of water. So, she always ended up completely wet, but didn't mind so much. Anyway, this picture was taken shortly after one of her adventures in the sink with her collar on.

kitty hood 4

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Tippecanoe

Heard at the dinner table (I'm not sure how well this is going to translate to the written word - but it was hella funny):

Bubba: Tyler wasn't there.
Hubby: How about Tippecanoe? (You just can be social studies humor at the dinner table.. Ugh..)
Bubba: Yeah, he was there...
Hubby: Tippecanoe was at your play?
Bubba: Of course.
Me: Which one was he?
Bubba: The Principal!!!!!

The Principal's name is Mr. Thibideau (pronounced Tib-a-doo - rhymes with Tippecanoe).

So, from here on out - we will be calling the Princpal Mr. Tippecanoe.

Monday, November 17, 2008

Totally Looks Like



One of my favorite websites is Totally Looks Like - some of them are really funny. I've been meaning to do this for awhile, but my husband totally looks like David Boreanaz. We had our pictures taken this weekend and the lady taking the pictures pulled me aside AFTER we had paid and said, "You're Husband totally looks like the guy on Bones." Now, I've heard this before. And so has Hubby, but I decided to do a "Totally Looks Like" poll and leave it up to you internets.

What do you think?

(even if you don't think Hubby looks like Boreanaz - it doesn't matter because I still think he's totally hot (both of them actually.))

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Kitties in love

I took this picture this afternoon. Since Jasmine got her collar off,
Oreo has been constantly by her side. I think she believed Jasmine
turned into a gross alien for awhile.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Soccer Season is Over

Today was the last day of the regular season of soccer games. Bubba's team had an undefeated season - and they were in the top bracket so they ended up winning their entire U8 divison. Bubba didn't score today - today's game was the hardest one yet, the score was 2-1.

Prissy's team won today - which was good. Prissy didn't score, but she has progressively gotten worse over the season - which is just weird.

Prissy had her end of the year soccer party at a local pizza place. She got a trophy. I'm SO glad her season was over. I had enough of her coach - but, the party was fun - only because Hubby and I snickered and made fun of the coach. Yes, pettiness does make me feel better sometimes.

Bubba's end of the year party is tomorrow at a local bowling alley - I enjoyed his soccer games completely and I'm sad his season is over. Some of the boys on his team are moving to a more competitive league - so after 3 years - his team is breaking up. It's really quite sad, I don't think I'm ready for it to end. I adore Bubba's coach - he is really awesome.

So - that's all. Tomorrow we are getting our annual family portrait taken. I'm not so excited about that - I'm not feeling really photogenic right now.

Friday, November 14, 2008

Random Crap

  • I didn't go to Taekwondo sparring class tonight - because I don't like to spar and because I had a rather large rum and coke and I would certainly have my ass handed to me if I tried to spar anyone right now.
  • My afternoon meeting was cancelled so I decided to come home early and went to Prissy's literary luncheon. She won an award. It was a potluck. It was nice.
  • I took an online advanced excel class for work - I can totally do database calculations now.
  • Hubby and I are having Chinese delivery tonight for dinner. The kids are eating hot dogs.
  • I'm having Twilight Saga withdraw - I'm sort of jonesing for the movie. This morning, as I was driving to work, the radio station I was listening to was giving away free tickets. I started calling because I SO WANTED TO WIN THOSE TICKETS and actually got through very quickly. Unfortunately, I had called the wrong radio station - how embarrassing.
  • Prissy cut 4" off of her hair and it's so damn cute.
  • Jasmine got her collar off today, as soon as it came off, she started biting her incision - all the scabs came off. I had to take her back to the vet. But, it was all healed. So, she should be okay. She and Oreo started playing again today - so I think that she is doing much better.

Man - two random bullet crap in one week - that is so sad...

Thursday, November 13, 2008

My Little Winners

OMG! So, awhile back, my kids had a fundraiser that sold various wrapping papers and other crappola. My parents and inlaws bought stuff and we bought a LOT of stuff so the kids could reach their 10 item goal and be put in the school drawings.

Well, a mom from the PTA called me this evening and it turns out that BOTH kids won something. They both REALLY wanted the Limo ride and lunch with the Principal. Well - Bubba won that. I told him and he was SO EXCITED!!!!! Until I told Prissy that she won an iPod nano. Then, he threw a major fit. A.MAJOR.FIT.

He's totally bummed that he didn't win the Nano (which is a pretty awesome prize actually.) The only bummer is that we were planning on getting her a Nano for Christmas. Oh well - I guess we'll do something different for her now.

I am also excited that Bubba got a Limo ride, I think that will be really cool (I've never ridden in a Limo before.) I'm also glad that both kids won something. It would have been such a pain if Prissy won the iPod and Bubba didn't win anything. After talking with Bubba - we realized he didn't even know what an iPod nano was - but he DOES know what a Limo ride is. Ungrateful little stinker.

So, my kids are winners today. Yay!

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

It's Not Even 8am Yet!

Shit! It's not even 8am yet and I'm ready for a Xanax.

Bubba has a class singing-performance-thing coming up for a school assembly. He "volunteered" to be a football player - on Monday. We, of course, do not have any sort of football gear. No pants, no shirts, no helmets. But, I figured I'd look at Walmart this weekend to see if they had any halloween leftovers - and if not, I'd go to the party store. Worst came to worst, we could borrow something from our neighbor that plays football.

HOWEVER, Bubba was getting dressed this morning and he started yelling - "Today is my performance - what did you get me to wear?" What? It's today? TODAY!??!!! "Are you sure Bubba?" "YES! It's today!!! DID YOU FORGET??!!!!" Panic is creaping into his voice.

Shit, shit, shit, shit.... The teacher gives us one day - ONE WORK DAY to prepare for this? WHAT??!!! So, soccer shirt and baseball pants it is - I tell him that he'll look great. Then, I went upstairs and looked in our old costume relics and Bubba wore a Power Ranger costume last year I think. It had muscles. It was quite small, so I cut the top half off of it:

muscle man

And then put his shirt on over it:

football star?

Not too bad right? Especially in just a few minutes? I put new batteries in the camera - took a few pictures and we're off. On time even. I ask Bubba if he wants to take any other clothes and he says no, that he'll just take the "pads" off after the singing. Ok - we're off.

We're walking to school and Bubba says, "I hope it's today... Maybe it's next week sometime..." Oh, he didn't just say that...

The kids play outside before school starts, but I went and talked to his teacher. And no, there is no performance today. It's not until next Tuesday. I think I must have blacked out about then.

Upon coming to, I tell the teacher that I'll go home and get him some other clothes. *sigh*

When I get home - I see the kitten peeing on Prissy's baton bag. WTF?!!! "What are you doing?!!!" I couldn't deal with that at the moment - I pack Bubba's clothes up and head back to school. I get there and the students are lining up to go to class and Bubba says, "Did you pack me my class T-shirt? We have a fieldtrip today and we have to wear our class t-shirts." Of course, I did not. I told him to suck it - 'cause I'm a good mom like that.

The End.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Stupid Bulleted List

Tonight I have so many things buzzing around in my head. I figured I'd do the bullet list update.

  • Prissy went to the allergist yesterday and he gave us some hope on the peanut allergy front. He was at a food allergy conference this past weekend - and the immunotherapy research is really going well. Patients are given controlled amounts of peanut flour to put under their tongue and the dosage is increased bit by bit and it has been showing to make peanut allergic people less sensitive. He said there should probably be something mainstream in the next 5-10 years. This is just awesome news. The not awesome news is that Prissy's peanut allergy is still as present as ever - and still crazy bad. I thought it might be getting better - because she hasn't had a reaction for a long time - but, it's just that our carefulness is paying off.
  • Bubba and Prissy didn't have school today - and I got to work from home. Holy smokes, not so easy. I rented several movies, and got them a Wii game. They were actually really good, for the most part. I was still able to work, and still give them attention, and they didn't bicker too much today. I thank all that is good. I'm not sure if I could have handled it otherwise.
  • Work continues to be good - although, I have to take all the New-Employee classes, which is somewhat silly. I think I probably created some of those classes. *laugh* So, that is sort of boring, but it's short lived.
  • Jasmine still has to wear her collar to keep from biting her incision - she has to keep the collar on until Friday. Then she'll get to take it off (originally it was supposed to come off toady.) She is still running a bit of a fever - even after 8 days of antibiotics. That concerns me, but the vet just wants me to keep giving her the medicine. The good thing is that she is very easy to give medicine too - which I'm grateful for.
  • Hubby is traveling and comes home tomorrow. YAY!

My life in bullets. How is that for fun?

Monday, November 10, 2008

I think I'm just going to bed...

Hubby is traveling for work. The kids had a minimum day today. I had to take Prissy to the allergy doctor (shots are really helping her, but her peanut allergy is not improving in the slightest.) He also found out that the peanut allergy "vaccine" is a bust. Apparently it works about 80% of the time. That is not such great odds when you still have a 20% chance of anaphylaxis and potential death. But, apparently there are some great advancements with placing the minutest amount of peanut protein under the tongue and slowly increasing it. He said it was still about 10 years away - which is great.

Anyway, went to the allergist. Then, had to take Prissy to baton team and individual baton practice - and had to get Bubba to do his homework, listen to Prissy at her baton lesson, act as vice president for the board, and work simultaneously. It was a joy. I beat.

We stopped at KFC on the way home - it was delicious but it gave me a stomachache.

However, I went to get something from under the kitchen sink - and there is a friggin leak. And it looks like it's been there awhile. Holy shit people. I don't know what to do yet. It's not a major leak - a minor leak (it's NASTY under there.)

I decided to leave it for tomorrow. I think I'm just going to read my blogs and then go to bed. Tomorrow the kids have off of school and I still have to work - it will not be so fun if they are fighting. For the love of all that is good, please don't let them fight all day. I also have to take Jasmine back to the vet to check her stitches. UGH! And I guess I need to figure out what the hell is happening in my kitchen and call a plumber or something.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Good and Bad Choices - Day 2

Today here were Bubba's choices (his spelling gets bad when he's in a hurry)

Good: helping prissy put away her close. I didn't do it a week ago. I was riding my bike. I like riding my bike. It is fun.

Hmmm.... He helped Prissy put her clothes away today - but I have no idea what that has to do with his bike. Must be lacking a little focus.

Bad: hitting prissy because she made my elbow worse. Now it stings like crazey. I got it from riding my bike. I was going to fast. And I feel on concreat.

Blaming the sister - that is a bad choice. Prissy and Bubba were playing catch and she threw it a little to hard and he dove to catch it and hit his scraped elbow that he got while riding his bike. So, he hit her. Not a good choice. But, the bigger issue is his reasoning that it was ok to hit her. Hmmm... interesting.

Bad: fiting withe prissy all day. She ceped on hurting me. I wanded to watch a show and she wanded to watch anoter show. I wanted to play a game she wanded to play another game.

This is really interesting. He really didn't fight with prissy all day. They actually played very well together for most of the day. I think he was actually making this one up. And it's funny that he says she kept on hurting him. She didn't. He fell down once and bumped his sore elbow. It just happened to be right before he had to write his 3 items.


This is sort of interesting to see little bits into his mind.

Hubby is traveling and will be gone most of the week. I finished the Twilight saga and now I almsot don't know what to do with myself.

All 3 kitties

Last night I was up late reading and all 3 of the kitties came down
and were sitting on the couch together. This is totally weird, so I
grabbed by phone and took a picture of it. The top right kitty is my
ancient cat Pookie. The top left is Oreo. The one lying on the seat
with the sad sad collar us Jasmine.

Anyway, it made me really happy. Usually Pookie lives under the bed
or under the desk. It is nice to see her out and about, socializing even!!

Saturday, November 8, 2008

The Consequence

So, yesterday I posted about not knowing what to do about Bubba. But, we made a decision on what to do. Clearly taking things away, and normal punishment has not worked completely.

So, we decided to do a combination of things. First, Bubba cannot have any candy for 30 days (days = number of candies he snuck upstairs.) Second, he cannot play computer games unless they have educational value for 30 days. So, that is his punishment, but in addition to that, every day he has to write about three choices he made - what they were are if they were good choices or bad choices. I want him to know the difference between right and wrong. I want him to realize that HE makes these choices. No one else makes these decisions. I want him to review what some of his choices are on a daily basis.

Here were today's (in his words):

  • good: leving Prissy alone when she told me to. they were going to do girl stuf. I didn't burp in her face. (Prissy had a friend over today - and I guess he left her alone when she asked and resisted to burp in her face - this definately is a good choice.)
  • Bad: I didn't give Prissy toilet paper. She had no toilet paper when she was going to the bathroom. (definately a bad choice - or at least not a very nice choice.)
  • Good: I didn't sneak any candy. I don't like penut butter. It tast bad. It makes my dangely thing in the back of my mouth feel all funny. (Ok, Prissy is horribly allergic to peanuts. We don't keep it around the house, but occasionally he gets a butterfinger or something at school. This concerns me a little bit and means a trip back to the doctor.)

So, we'll see how this new discipline method goes.

On a different note - soccer games today. Bubba scored two goals and had a great assist on another. His team is still undefeated (they won today 8 to 0). They are so good. Prissy played goalie for the second half of her game and had several amazing stops. No one scored on her. They ended up tied 1 to 1.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Candy sneaking

At my wits end

Dear Bubba,

You are my sweet, beautiful, very manipulative and sneaky 7 year old son.

The principal called this week to tell your Dad and I that you and your friend went into the girls bathroom. You had recess taken away and had to have a little chat with him about how going into the girls bathroom was inappropriate.

A parent pulled me aside and told me that something you said made her daughter cry all night long.

You stole a HUGE amount of Halloween candy, and snuck it up to your room. You then ate it in the middle of the night.

You have gotten into such deep trouble for this behavior before. But yet you continue.

Ugh... You snuck up over 30 pieces of candy! (Picture to come in the next post.)

What am I going to do with you when you become a teenager and it's drugs instead of candy? Do you know how much this scares me?

How do I stop this now?!!?? This is just not okay behavior, and I'm totally stumped.

I love you with all of my being - but these bad choices have to stop.


Mom

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Almost There....

I haven't talked much about Taekwondo recently. This past testing completely stressed me out. There was minimal time between testings, and we traveled to Italy during that time, and my work life was pretty much in chaos. To make matters a little more hectic, testing was last Saturday, which was supposed to entail going to two soccer games, a friends open house, Taekwondo testing and a Halloween party. We lucked out because it rained like crazy and the soccer games were cancelled. So, it all worked out okay.

Anyway, both Hubby and I passed. We are now red-belt decideds. Which is very exciting.

My belt looks orange in the picture, but it's red, trust me. :)
testing 002

Testing went well. Our next testing we will be black belt recommended. Our belt will be half red and half black. Then our next belt is black. So, only two more belts and we will be black belts. Damn, this has been one long journey.

Anyway, I actually plan to go after my 2nd degree. We'll see. :)

Almost there....

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

New Job

Well, I'll post a little work related stuff. I don't do that very often. But, I started my new job on Monday. I finally got my computer yesterday, and I finally got my email working today. Then the onslaught came. Holy crap - I have so much work to do. And I love it.

My new boss (who is the same as my old old boss) is da bomb. I have missed him SO MUCH the last, almost, 2 years (he was my manager for almost 8 years and then when he left I took his position). He is really an amazing manager. I am being thrown in head first - but, for the first time in a long time I feel like I'm not swimming upstream. I feel like I'm not fighting for everything. I feel like I'm actually appreciated and I get help when I need it. *HUGE SIGH OF RELIEF* Plus, the work is all new and it's really pretty fun (ask me again in 6 months and we'll see what I have to say.)

So - take all of that, and while I was waiting for my account to be reset one last time, he came and got me and made me go play Wii Bowling. Totally weird.

On the down side - oh gawd to I totally miss my team. I so wanted to be with them this morning to talk over the election. We have all become so close that I miss my friends. However, NIB is in town, and I do NOT miss that one bit.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

As always -


Since I'm doing the 365 one, I thought that I could just incorporate the standard November one that got me into blogging in the first place in 2006. :)

Things that make me sad


Poor Jazzy got a little infection from biting at her incision from her recent surgery removing her girl parts. So the vet gave her a special hat and antibiotics.  Poor baby. :(





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